Author: John Bass

Cody Rhodes Was Reportedly Upset With Tony Khan Over This particular Issue

Cody Rhodes had a few problems with AEW president Tony Khan before parting ways with the promotion.

Cody Rhodes has left AEW along with his wife Brandi, sending shock waves through the wrestling world. The former TNT Champion is now the hottest free agent in the business, and he has been heavily linked to WWE since the news of his departure broke.

It was initially reported that Rhodes and AEW president Tony Khan were at loggerheads over contractual issues but, according to Andrew Zarian, there were a few other incidents involving Tony that got under Cody’s skin.

One of those is rumored to be a video in which Khan implied AEW’s success was all down to him.

“Somebody sent me a link to a Forbes article and said, ‘This really upset certain people, especially Cody’. I don’t if that’s 100% true but this kind of plays into everything,” Zarian said on Wrestling Observer’s We’re Live Pal (H/T WrestleTalk.com).

“It was the Forbes video, the profile they did on Tony, and Tony starts it off by pretty much listing, ‘I’m the GM, I’m the booker, I’m the this, I’m the…’, essentially he’s a one-man show.”

It’s reported that Rhodes wasn’t the only one upset by Khan’s comments. Zarian added that there may have been a few other issues leading to Rhodes’ exit.

“I don’t know if that’s necessarily one of the things, but it was a multitude of things,” the wrestling insider continued.

Over the last few months, there have been reports citing various problems between Rhodes and the other AEW EVPs. Khan was also on the end of lots of criticism for his handling of certain issues, including Big Swole’s comments on her release.

Cody has since issued a statement on his departure in which he thanked Khan and several other AEW personalities.

“I loved my time at AEW. Amazing locker room. Amazing fans. Amazing people.” He wrote as part of said statement on social media, “The revolution was indeed televised, and I’ve been incredibly lucky to be part of that.” He added, “I have had so many milestones and beautiful memories of this renaissance… through sweat, blood, tears, literal fire, and all that… I left it all on the mat.”

Source: TheSportster

The Rock Teases WWE Return On Social Media

It appears The Rock plans to follow his Super Bowl LVI opener up with another electrifying promo.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson appears to have teased a return to WWE via a social media post.

The wrestling legend turned Hollywood star has some history with football and, though he never made it to the NFL, got last weekend’s Super Bowl LVI off to an electrifying start as he cut quite the promo to usher the Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals out to the pitch.

Johnson’s promo included a few signature catchphrases, such as his “finally!” and “millions… and millions” of fans around the world bits. The latter would typically include a pause for the audience to respond – that pause wasn’t observed on Sunday, however.

Folks took notice of the absence and, after it was pointed out on social media, The Rock responded with claims that the pause is coming soon. Of course, WrestleMania 38 is around the corner, leading speculation The Great One could be part of the show.

https://twitter.com/TheRock/status/1493362359515054086

The Rock is just one of a few big names thought to be candidates for a WrestleMania appearance this year. The Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer has noted that the actor will be pretty busy during the Show of Shows, but whatever happens on that front remains to be seen.

“Stone Cold” Steve Austin and Cody Rhodes are also rumored to be set for comebacks. It’s been reported that WWE is keen on having Austin present, as well as another legendary name on his level, while Kevin Owens is rumored to be the one he will face after K.O. cut a promo talking down Texas on Monday night.

Rhodes, meanwhile, parted ways with AEW this week and reports suggest Vince McMahon wants him back. The WWE chairman is also said to be intent on giving Rhodes a major push right away, which should include a WrestleMania match.

Source: TheSportster

WWE Planning Another Huge, Stone Cold-Level Surprise For WrestleMania 38 [Rumor]

WWE is reportedly keen on having another legendary name feature in the upcoming WrestleMania PPV.

WWE is reported to be planning to bring in another legend on the level of “Stone Cold” Steve for WrestleMania 38.

It’s believed that the Hall of Famer will be the subject of a shocking in-ring return for this year’s iteration of the Show of Shows, with Kevin Owens suspected to be his opponent for the major event.

According to Dave Meltzer (H/T Sportskeeda.com), WWE is working on having another legendary name feature when the event comes around, noting whoever it is will be of the same caliber as Austin. He pointed out that The Rock will be busy while John Cena also has other commitments.

The Wrestling Observer insider deduced it could be Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, or The Undertaker as those are the only other available names on the same level as Austin, though he wasn’t entirely sure.

WrestleMania 38 will be a two-night show, as it has been since 2020, and is set to air from the AT&T Stadium in Texas on April 2-3. Two matches have been confirmed for the time being and another will be by the end of Elimination Chamber this weekend.

Brock Lesnar will square off with Universal Champion Roman Reigns following his Royal Rumble win but could face a different opponent if Reigns loses his title to Goldberg at this weekend’s PPV.

Women’s Royal Rumble winner Royal Rumble winner Ronda Rousey will face Charlotte Flair. The pair will go at each other at Elimination Chamber as well, but as part of a tag team match. Rousey will partner up with Naomi against Flair and Sonya Deville.

Becky Lynch is yet to learn her opponent as that’s set to be decided by a six-woman affair inside the Elimination Chamber.

Source: TheSportster

WWE NXT Vengeance Day Preview 2/15/22

The 2022 WWE NXT Vengeance Day special will air live tonight from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida.

This week’s NXT will air on Syfy for the second straight week due to Winter Olympics coverage on the USA Network. NXT will return to USA next Tuesday night.

Backstage Talk On Why Cody Rhodes Left AEW, More On Cody – WWE

Regarding Cody and Brandi leaving AEW, word as of last Friday was that Cody wanted a big money deal, but several within the company didn’t think that a new deal was going to happen, according to Fightful Select. It was noted that Cody and Brandi have not been quite as connected to the AEW locker room in recent years as they were when AEW first launched, with word coming out that Cody had become distant from the other Executive Vice Presidents, Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks.

It’s believed by some that Cody could be returning to WWE soon. It was noted on Wrestling Observer Radio that there was a lot of talk at Monday’s RAW about Rhodes possibly returning to his former employer, who he was with from 2006-2016. There is said to be chatter within certain WWE circles about Cody’s future with the company, but nothing is official as of this writing. Furthermore, Ariel Helwani reported that Rhodes and WWE are in talks about a return.

Shortly before AEW and Cody confirmed the departures today, WWE officials were aware of the situation and reportedly knew ahead of time that an announcement would be made, according to the Fightful report. It was noted that Rhodes and WWE have at least had discussions, but WWE did know that an announcement on Rhodes’ AEW departure would be made this morning.

There is no word on if Cody’s WWE return deal would include a spot on the roster for Brandi, or when we might see Rhodes return to the WWE ring.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

WWE Reportedly Talking With Cody Rhodes About Return

Earlier today Cody Rhodes confirmed that he and Brandi Rhodes have officially left AEW.

Now, according to a report by Ariel Helwani, it has been revealed he is in talks with WWE. The former Intercontinental Champion has been speaking with the company, and a return could be taking place in the near future.

Cody Rhodes originally left WWE in 2016 after spending a decade working for Vince McMahon. His career began with Ohio Valley Wrestling, and he went on to thrive as part of the main roster. From teaming with Hardcore Holly to being a member of Legacy. Cody then went on to have singles success with a variety of gimmicks before working with Goldust. His career came to end while portraying the Stardust gimmick.

Following his time with WWE, Cody Rhodes worked on the independent scene and as part of Ring Of Honor. He was an integral part of the influential ALL IN show and a founding member of All Elite Wrestling. Cody worked as an in-ring talent as well as an Executive Vice President for the company.

During his time working for Tony Khan, Cody was able to become a record three-time TNT Champion. However, his contract expired with AEW at the end of December, and since then he has been working under a handshake agreement. While the American Nightmare appeared on AEW Dynamite several times, he and his wife have now officially left the company.

Both Cody and Tony Khan have released official statements on social media about the news. Both men thanked each other for their time working together, and were complimentary, with no bad blood appearing to be involved.

Earlier today it was reported on the latest episode of the Wrestling Observer Radio, that there was talk backstage at Raw about Cody returning. This has now been further pushed by Helwani, as he was told that conversations have officially happened between the two parties.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

Cody And Brandi Rhodes Part Ways With AEW

Today Cody Rhodes has announced that he and Brandi Rhodes are officially leaving AEW. The former three-time TNT Champion has been working as a free agent since the start of the year. However, the two parties have not been able to come to terms on a new contract. Because of that, his time with the company has come to an end.

Cody Rhodes released a lengthy statement addressing the situation on Twitter. During that, he took the time to thank Tony Khan. He also gave nods to many members of the AEW roster.

“I have loved my time at AEW. Amazing locker room, amazing fans, amazing people. The ‘revolution’ was indeed televised, and I’ve been incredibly lucky to be part of that. First, I want to thank Tony Khan. He’s taken the baton and run with it, and it was an honor to work for him and to know him on a personal level. He’s a beautiful soul. Obviously need to thank my incredible wife and the mother of my baby girl, Brandi, for all of her love and support throughout this journey together and the amazing relationships she fostered with Kulture City and the American Heart Association.

“I also need to thank Nick and Matt Jackson (these two, whether they know it or not, took an undesired and not confident lir cub and gifted me the confidence to become a leader of the pack), Kenneth Omega, Chris Jericho, Chicken…we started the fire. I must thank Tim W/Keith M/Greg W and the amazing production crew who understood and captured the vision with such grace, I can’t name everybody. But thank you to Megha, Margaret, Harrington, Jeff Jones, Dana, Tony Schiavone, Bern, Raf, and the hardest worker in the game, QT Marshall, for propping me up and kicking me in the ass when I was running on fumes.

“I must thank all my kiddos… MJF, Jade, Sammy, Darby, Lee, Ricky, Tom, The Gunns, Brock, Velvet, Nyla, Aubrey, Turner, Vanilla, Solo, Spears, Julia, Anna, Will, Wardlow, Sonny, Fuego 1 and of course, -1. While we’re at it, give Jade the Codyvator! Also need to take a moment to thank the great partners at Warner Media including Brett, Sam, and the rest of the team. I have so many milestones and beautiful memories of this renaissance…through sweat, blood, tears, literal fire, and all that…I left it all on the mat.

“Everything pales in comparison to the final contribution I was empowered to lead at the company, the community outreach team. In the most inward moments, your outward behavior and your ability to take fame/influence and do something of value for the communities you visit (whether the cameras are on or off) is the highest honor. I am confident Amanda Huber will lead the department with style. I’m so proud of my creations and contributions and the items I supported or collaborated on with such wonderful professionals.”

Following Cody Rhodes’ statement, AEW President Tony Khan also commented on the news. He took the time to thank both Cody and Brandi for their work within the company. Not just for their in-ring runs, but also what they have done with the community outreach program.

“Cody and Brandi Rhodes were integral to the launch of All Elite Wrestling. Cody’s ability combined with his boldness and his passion for our industry and his love for community outreach helped AEW deliver on our mission to give fans what they needed for far too long. Something new, innovative and lasting. Brandi helped us shape the AEW story, and I appreciate how hard she fought for us both in the ring and out of the ring, competing in the women’s division while advancing our efforts at inclusion and civic causes, including great partnerships with Kulture City and the American Heart Association.

“I have immense respect and appreciation for Cody and Brandi. And I wish them both the best as they move on from AEW. Thank you, Cody and Brandi!

“Tony Khan CEO, President, General Manager & Head of Creative, All Elite Wrestling”

Brandi also issued a statement on her departure from AEW:

It is currently unknown what is next for Cody Rhodes. However, it was reported earlier today on the latest edition of Wrestling Observer Radio, that there was talk backstage at Raw this week about him returning to the company.

https://twitter.com/CodyRhodes/status/1493601980215930880
https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1493602087481061377

Source: Wrestling Inc.

Brandi also issued her own statement today after the departures were confirmed. She wrote the following:

“A heartfelt thank you to every fan that has supported me in AEW. It was an honor to be the company’s first Chief Brand Officer. The thank you list is long so I’ll try not to wander. Thank you to Kulture City, Special Olympics Illinois and the American Heart Association for allowing me to cultivate these amazing partnerships. Thank you to every AEW Heel that helped me build a dream community of female fans. Thank you to every AEW wrestler and talent that worked hard to create a great locker room environment. Thank you to the production team, make up team, and seamstresses. Thank you, Dustin, QT, Jerry Lynn and Leva Bates, for every ounce of energy, help and encouragement you provided. Thank you to my husband for being that constant rock and partner every single day. Thank you to TNT, TBS and WarnerMedia for treating my family like your family. Thank you to Tony Khan for giving me this opportunity and platform. I move forward with my daughter and this quote in mind.

“We must take time to define our own path. Too quickly we can find the world defining it for us” – Unknown

Also…

“I’ll see you on the flippity flop” – Michael Scott

https://twitter.com/TheBrandiRhodes/status/1493602002353463310

WWE RAW Preview 2/14/22

The Elimination Chamber go-home edition of WWE RAW will take place tonight from the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Tonight’s RAW will air on Syfy for the second straight week due to Winter Olympics coverage on the USA Network. The show will return to USA next week.

Samoa Joe To Be Inducted Into ROH Hall Of Fame

One week after AEW star Bryan Danielson was revealed as the second inductee into the Ring of Honor Hall of Fame, ROH has announced that a contemporary of Danielson’s will be joining him. In a lengthy statement released on their website, Ring of Honor revealed that Samoa Joe will be the third inductee into ROH’s inaugural Hall of Fame class.

“Ring of Honor is proud to welcome Samoa Joe, the most dominant ROH World Champion in history, into the inaugural class of the ROH Hall of Fame,” the statement read. “From the first time he stepped into an ROH ring in 2002, Joe proved to be an intimidating force whose hard-hitting offense, intensity and relentlessness made him one of the sport’s most dangerous competitors. ‘The Samoan Submission Machine’ is arguably the most proficient American pro wrestler in the art of strong style, a form of pro wrestling popularized in Japan that emphasizes strikes and submissions.  In just his 10th match in ROH, Joe captured the ROH Title in March 2003. Two months later, Joe officially elevated the championship to world title status when he successfully defended it in London, marking the first time the championship had been defended outside the United States.

“Joe went on to hold the ROH World Championship for a record 645 days and make 31 successful title defenses. It’s not only the longest reign in ROH history, but at the time it was the longest world title reign in any U.S.-based pro wrestling company in 15 years. During Joe’s historic reign, he and CM Punk engaged in an epic trilogy of matches that have become legendary. They wrestled to two 60-minute draws before Joe won their final meeting. Six months after losing the ROH World Title, Joe won the ROH Pure Championship. After leaving ROH in 2007, Joe won the TNA World Heavyweight Title by defeating Kurt Angle. Joe returned to ROH in 2015 for a series of matches before he departed for WWE, where he became the first two-time NXT Champion.”

Samoa Joe joins Danielson and The Briscoe Brothers in Ring of Honor’s inaugural Hall of Fame class; the final inductee will be revealed next week. Shortly after the announcement, Samoa Joe simply tweeted out “#Honored” along with a photo of himself and fellow ROH alumni CM Punk and Homicide.

The announcement comes a little more than a month after Samoa Joe was released from WWE for the second time in the span of a year. Originally released in April of 2021, Joe was re-signed by Triple H and brought to WWE’s NXT brand to work as an in-ring performer and talent scout. He would go on to defeat Killer Kross for the NXT Championship at TakeOver 36 but quickly vacated the title due to injury right before the launch of NXT 2.0.

Joe would never appear on WWE programming again and would ultimately be released on January 6, alongside several other so-called Triple H “lieutenants” William Regal, Gabe Sapolsky, and Road Dogg. In a statement following his release, Joe hinted at a potential return to the ring once he was legally able to. It is unknown what kind, if any, of noncompete clause Joe is under.

As also announced by Ring of Honor, a career retrospective of Samoa Joe will air this weekend on ROH’s weekly Ring of Honor Wrestling program, followed by a YouTube special focused on Monday. The Hall of Fame episode will air on TV next month on Saturday, March 5.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

*Spoilers* NWA Powerrr Trip Results From 2/12/2022

NWA’s “Powerrr Trip” event was on February 12, at the Valor Hall in Oak Grove, Kentucky.

Below are the Powerrr Trip results courtesy of Andrew Mitchell/Wrestlezone: via Wrestling Inc.

* Chelsea Green defeated Kenzie Paige

* Jax Dane defeated Eric Jackson

* The Fixers defeated OGK (Billy Corgan announced that this was the first match of the Crockett Cup)

* Colby Corino defeated Rhett Titus in a 2 out of 3 falls match

* Mike Knox defeated The Pope

* Idolmania Sports Management defeated Cyon & ILL Begotten

* NWA National Championship: Anthony Mayweather defeated Chris Adonis to win the championship

* Nick Aldis defeated Thom Latimer in an ‘I Quit’ match after Kamille came out to throw in a white towel

* NWA Women’s Championship: Kamille defeated Taryn Terrell

* NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Matt Cardona defeated Trevor Murdoch to win the title. Afterward, Nick Aldis said that he still is owed a rematch and will be the next challenger for the title.