Category: GCW

Former WWE Tag Champs The War Raiders Set For Bloodsport XIV, Natalya vs. TNA’s Masha Slamovich, Plus a Few Other WWE Stars

While WWE gears up for its two-night SummerSlam extravaganza at MetLife Stadium this weekend, the underground fight scene in pro wrestling is heating up just a short drive away. Game Changer Wrestling’s Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIV is set to kick off Saturday afternoon in New Jersey, and a pair of former WWE World Tag Team Champions are officially stepping into the no-ropes ring for the very first time.

Josh Barnett took to social media to break the news himself, declaring: “WAR is coming to Bloodsport.” That’s right—Erik and Ivar, collectively known as The War Raiders, are making their long-awaited debut at the gritty hybrid shoot-style event.

Last seen on the July 10 episode of WWE Main Event, where they steamrolled LWO’s Joaquin Wilde and Cruz Del Toro, Erik and Ivar will now test their mettle in one of wrestling’s most unforgiving formats. True to Bloodsport tradition, their match will be contested in a ring stripped of ropes and turnbuckles, with a hard-hitting MMA-meets-pro-wrestling ruleset. Their opponents for the event have yet to be revealed.

They won’t be the only WWE talents on the card, either. Raw veteran Natalya is set to face off against TNA Wrestling’s dangerous and unpredictable Masha Slamovich, while SmackDown‘s Pete Dunne brings his brutal British strong style to a clash with Jonathan Gresham. Also announced: NXT’s Charlie Dempsey returns to Bloodsport following his loss to Tavion Heights earlier this month. His opponent remains under wraps for now.

WWE’s growing crossover with Bloodsport isn’t exactly new. Last year’s Bloodsport X featured Shayna Baszler and Charlie Dempsey, both of whom picked up big wins—Baszler over Slamovich (with Zoey Stark in her corner) and Dempsey over Matt Makowski. The appearances signaled a surprising but intriguing collaboration between WWE and GCW, one that seems to be gaining more momentum with each event.

Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIV kicks off Saturday at 1 PM ET, offering a violent, visceral counterpoint to the polished spectacle of SummerSlam. Whether it’s WWE talent, indie legends, or international heavy-hitters, expect no frills—just fights.

Matt Cardona vs. Shotzi Blackheart at GCW in Dallas, Cardona Threatens Shozi over “Indy God & Death Match King” Monikers

Matt Cardona isn’t letting Shotzi Blackheart stroll back onto the indie scene without a fight — especially when it comes to titles he believes he’s earned.

After Shotzi recently dubbed herself the “New Indy God” during her return to independent wrestling, Cardona wasted no time clapping back. The self-proclaimed “Indy God” and “Death Match King” took to social media to remind everyone — Shotzi included — that those aren’t just nicknames. They’re trademarks. Literally.

Cardona, never shy about protecting his brand, pointed out that he legally owns the rights to both “Indy God” and “Death Match King,” and even hinted that legal action could be on the table if Shotzi continues to use the moniker. He name-dropped well-known wrestling trademark attorney Mike Dockins (aka the “Gimmick Attorney”) as the man who might soon come calling.

Whether this turns into a full-on feud or just a battle of branding, one thing’s clear: Cardona isn’t ready to give up his throne without a fight.

GCW announced Battle of the Indy Gods: Matt Cardona vs. Shotzi Blackheart for their upcoming event Boss Of All Bosses in Dallas, Texas on July 11th.

Below are some post on X from Cardona and Shotzi:

Shotzi Blackheart Announces Multiple GCW Appearances, Plans To Direct Horror Flicks

Shotzi Blackheart is back—and she’s not just bringing chaos to the ring, but also plotting a future behind the camera.

The former WWE star and self-declared “Indy God” has confirmed a string of appearances for GameChanger Wrestling (GCW) in what looks to be a major independent resurgence. Shotzi will step back into the spotlight at multiple events this summer, spanning the U.S. and Japan, all set to stream live on TrillerTV.

Here’s where fans can catch Shotzi in action:

  • June 20 – GCW Bangin’ in Little Rock at The Hall in Little Rock, Arkansas
  • July 11 – GCW Boss of All Bosses in Dallas, Texas
  • July 28 – GCW Tokyo Event at Shinjuku Face, Kabukicho
  • July 29 – GCW Tokyo Event at Itabashi Green Hall, Itabashi City
  • July 30 – GCW Tokyo Event at Korakuen Hall, Bunkyo

Shotzi’s return kicks off with a bang—literally—as she faces off against Atticus Cogar in what’s sure to be a wild encounter at Bangin’ in Little Rock on June 20.

Fresh off her hardcore showdown at GCW Tournament of Survival X—a brutal three-way deathmatch against Matt Tremont and Jimmy Lloyd—Shotzi is once again embracing the gritty chaos that made her a standout in the indie scene before her WWE run.

But wrestling isn’t her only ambition.

During a recent appearance on Daria Berenato’s Unwrapped podcast, Shotzi revealed her dream career path once her days in the ring are over: horror movie director.

“Honestly, after wrestling, when my body just can’t take it anymore, I would love to be a horror movie director. That is the dream,” Shotzi said. “Obviously, be in them also—I just want to get my head chopped off a bunch.”

It’s not a surprising direction for the green-haired wildcard, who has always blended punk-rock attitude with spooky, horror-inspired flair. From her tank-riding entrances to her Halloween Havoc hosting duties, Shotzi has never shied away from theatrics—and it sounds like she’s ready to turn that passion into full-blown filmmaking.

For now, though, she’s got some skulls to crack and some blood to spill—figuratively and maybe literally—on the GCW circuit.

GCW Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIII Results

GCW held their event Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIII Thursday night at the Pearl Theater at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. Here are results:

  • Leyla Hirsch def. Jordan Blade via TKO
  • Maika def. Karmen Petrovic via submission
  • Charlie Dempsey def. Shinya Aoki via TKO
  • Karrion Kross def. JR Kratos via submission
  • Pete Dunne def. Timothy Thatcher via submission
  • Natalya def. Miyu Yamashita via submission
  • Tavion Heights def. Royce Isaacs via TKO
  • Shayna Baszler def. Komani via TKO
  • Zack Sabre Jr. def. Jonathan Gresham via KO. The match went to a time limit draw, resulting in a five-minute overtime.
  • Gabe Kidd def. Josh Barnett via TKO

GCW Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIII 4/17/2025 (Card)

GCW Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIII – Thursday, April 17, 2025 –
Pearl Theater At Palms Casino Resort – Las Vegas

CARD

  • Royce Isaacs vs. Tavion Heights
  • Shayna Baszler vs. Konami
  • Josh Barnett vs. Gabe Kidd
  • Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Jonathan Gresham
  • JR Kratos vs. Karrion Kross
  • Maika vs. Karmen Petrovic
  • Charlie Dempsey vs. Shinya Aoki
  • Nattie Neidhart vs. Miyu Yamashita
  • Leyla Hirsch vs. Jordan Blade
  • Timothy Thatcher vs. Pete Dunne

Natalya Set to Make Debut in Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport During WrestleMania 41 Weekend

WWE veteran Natalya is stepping into unfamiliar territory this April as she makes her debut at Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIII, a hard-hitting, no-ropes event promoted by Game Changer Wrestling (GCW). The event will take place on April 17, 2025, just two days before WrestleMania 41, at the Pearl Concert Theater in Nevada.

A New Challenge for the Queen of Harts

Josh Barnett took to social media to announce Natalya’s participation, emphasizing her roots in the legendary Hart Dungeon, where she trained in the art of submission wrestling.

“The Queen of Harts. A member of the legacy-filled Hart family. She spent time in the Hart Dungeon learning how to crank, rip, and tear wrestlers apart. You could say she was BORN for this. Will she torture her opponent to the point of submission, or will it be her hung from the rack? What will Bloodsport bring out of this veteran wrestler?”

Natalya’s inclusion in the event is a historic one, as it marks her first match outside of WWE since 2007. Known for her technical prowess, submission skills, and resilience, she is set to bring a new dynamic to Bloodsport’s unique, no-pins, knockout-or-submission-only format.

WWE Stars Making Their Mark in Bloodsport

GCW’s Bloodsport has increasingly become a stage for WWE talent to showcase their skills in a different environment. In October 2024, Charlie Dempsey and Karmen Petrovic competed at Bloodsport XII, proving that WWE stars can thrive in the no-holds-barred setting.

Joining Natalya at Bloodsport XIII will be other notable names, including former WWE stars Timothy Thatcher and Simon Gotch, as well as NJPW’s Tom Lawlor.

With WrestleMania 41 weekend bringing the entire wrestling world to Las Vegas, Bloodsport XIII is shaping up to be a must-see event. How will Natalya adapt to the brutal, unforgiving nature of Bloodsport? Fans won’t have to wait long to find out.

Tom Pestock (Baron Corbin In WWE), Files Trademark, Possibly For New Ring Name

After spending over a decade in WWE, former star Baron Corbin has officially stepped into the independent wrestling scene under his real name, Tom Pestock. However, Pestock’s journey appears to be evolving yet again, as a recent trademark filing suggests he may soon adopt the name Bishop Dyer for his in-ring persona.

From WWE to the Indies

Pestock made his independent wrestling debut on January 19 at The People vs. GCW event in New York City. Wrestling in a unique Bloodsport-style match — a no-ropes, MMA-inspired contest — Pestock faced off against Josh Barnett at the Hammerstein Ballroom. Though he came up short in the bout, the match marked a significant moment for the former WWE star, who spent over 12 years with the company.

Starting his wrestling career in 2012 after a brief stint in the NFL, Pestock was a mainstay in WWE. Under the name Baron Corbin, he climbed the ranks, finding success on both the NXT and main rosters. Highlights of his WWE tenure include retiring Kurt Angle at WrestleMania 35, winning the King of the Ring tournament, and embracing memorable gimmicks like “Happy Corbin,” a down-on-his-luck version of his character. His final run saw him return to NXT in 2023 before his departure in 2024.

Looking Toward Japan?

While Pestock is just beginning to explore life outside WWE, his next chapter may take him overseas. During a recent appearance on the Insight with Chris Van Vliet podcast, Pestock expressed a strong desire to wrestle in Japan. He hinted at the possibility of working with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), even suggesting that he might spend the remainder of his in-ring career there. While NJPW’s interest in Pestock has not been confirmed, the move would mark an exciting shift for the former WWE King of the Ring.

The Bishop Dyer Era?

Adding another layer to Pestock’s new chapter is the potential debut of his new name, Bishop Dyer. A trademark filing earlier this week indicates that Pestock may adopt this moniker as he continues to reinvent himself on the independent scene. The change could help him further establish his identity outside of WWE and potentially connect with a broader audience as he transitions into this next phase of his career.

A Fresh Start

After over a decade in WWE’s structured system, Pestock’s move to the independent circuit offers him the creative freedom to redefine his career on his own terms. With his first independent match now under his belt and aspirations to wrestle in Japan on the horizon, the future looks intriguing for the man once known as Baron Corbin. Whether performing as Tom Pestock or Bishop Dyer, it’s clear that this former WWE star is ready to make waves in the wrestling world once again.

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.

Chris Jericho Attacks Matt Cardona At GCW Event Ahead Of ROH Final Battle

Chris Jericho isn’t waiting until ROH Final Battle on December 20 to send a message to his challenger, Matt Cardona. The ROH World Champion made his presence felt in surprising fashion at GCW Highest in the Room 3 in Los Angeles this weekend, ambushing Cardona during the main event. Cardona, who was battling Effy, found himself blindsided by the “King of New York” as Jericho sent a clear warning ahead of their title clash.

The shocking moment quickly made waves, and Jericho took to Instagram afterward to share a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how the ambush came together. Alongside the video, Jericho addressed his rival directly in a caption dripping with confidence:
“…Hi @themattcardona, you didn’t think that the King of New York would pop up in Los Angeles at your @gamechangerwrestling Indy Event, did you? You made a big mistake forgetting who you’re dealing with……I always get my man! See you at #rohfinalbattle. @aew @ringofhonor.”

Jericho’s attack wasn’t just about intimidation; it also carried a shot of controversy. After the beatdown, Jericho revealed an AEW t-shirt to a chorus of boos from the GCW faithful. This reaction comes amid tensions between AEW and GCW, stemming from past disagreements. AEW President Tony Khan notably pulled Ricky Starks from GCW shows following critical comments made by Effy about Khan’s father. Willie Mack, who was also removed from GCW events, was rumored to have made the call himself, though the situation remains somewhat murky.

For Jericho, these kinds of unexpected appearances have become a trademark since his WWE departure in 2017. He’s no stranger to crossing promotional boundaries to make a statement. Fans will remember his 2018 NJPW attack on Kenny Omega, as well as his shocking appearance at the inaugural All In, where he disguised himself as Pentagon Jr. to surprise Omega again. More recently, Jericho ambushed Will Ospreay at a 2023 RevPro event while disguised as NJPW star BUSHI, and the Jericho Appreciation Society turned heads with a surprise showing at a PWG event earlier this year.

With ROH Final Battle looming, Jericho’s sneak attack has already tilted the psychological advantage in his favor. For Matt Cardona, the ambush serves as a painful reminder of the mind games and unpredictability that Jericho brings to any title defense.

The question now is whether Cardona will have a response ahead of their showdown. Jericho may have struck first, but if history has taught us anything, the “Indy God” isn’t one to back down without a fight. Final Battle just got even more personal, and fans won’t want to miss how this rivalry unfolds.

John Layfield (JBL) Undergoes Stem Cell Treatment, Says His Comeback Will Be The Biggest Since The Resurrection

JBL says he’s feeling pain free after undergoing stem cell treatment.

Taking to Twitter on Wednesday, the WWE Hall of Famer posted a photo from a recent a workout. He captioned his photo with,

“First time in a couple of decades, pain free and able to work out. Got stem cells from Integrated Pain Management in New Jersey-and my first workout, hard to believe I’m able to do things I couldn’t do for years. Comeback? Yeah, biggest since the resurrection.”

In recent months, JBL has appeared for TNA Wrestling, GCW, and MLW.

https://twitter.com/JCLayfield/status/1849572299613016314

Source: eWn