Category: Wrestling News

Report: Ilja Dragunov Expected To Join AEW Following WWE Exit

Nearly a month after leaving WWE, Ilja Dragunov’s next destination may finally be coming into focus.

According to Fightful Select, Dragunov is expected to join AEW in the near future, barring any unforeseen complications. While it remains unclear whether he has officially signed with the promotion, sources reportedly expect him to land there once outstanding issues are resolved.

That move may not happen immediately.

The report states that Dragunov is among several recently departed WWE talents from outside the United States who are currently dealing with visa-related hurdles following their exits from the company. Those issues have reportedly delayed potential appearances elsewhere, and there is no word on when they may be resolved.

Dragunov’s decision not to renew his WWE contract surprised many throughout the wrestling industry, leading to widespread speculation about where the former United States Champion would end up next.

Another question surrounding his future involves his ring name.

Because Ilja is his real first name, he would have no issue continuing to use it. The status of the “Dragunov” surname, however, is less certain. WWE filed a trademark application for “Ilja Dragunov” in 2020 during his NXT UK run, but publicly available records reportedly show no updates after October 2020, when the filing was listed as live and pending.

As a result, it remains unclear whether WWE ultimately secured rights to the name or if Dragunov will be able to continue using the identity he has competed under since 2012.

For now, the expectation is that Dragunov’s next chapter will begin once his visa situation is sorted out, though an official announcement has yet to be made.

Tessa Blanchard Removed From MLW Plans, Announced For CMLL Match On Same Date

The ongoing uncertainty surrounding Tessa Blanchard’s relationship with MLW appears to have reached another significant development.

Blanchard has officially been announced for a CMLL event on September 12, where she is scheduled to face Starlight Kid. The booking effectively confirms that she will not be appearing at MLW Fightland, which is scheduled for the same day.

The situation has become increasingly confusing over the past several weeks. Blanchard initially stated during an interview with TMZ Sports that she would be “starting with MLW” and spoke about her desire to compete in the promotion’s women’s division, including challenging for the MLW Women’s World Championship.

Those comments led many to believe that Blanchard had signed with MLW, particularly given the company’s working relationship with CMLL.

However, that perception quickly changed when CMLL clarified that Blanchard was not under contract with MLW and was only expected to make a single appearance. Shortly afterward, MLW removed promotional material related to Blanchard from its website, including references to her previously announced debut.

The situation became even murkier when Dave Meltzer discussed the matter on Wrestling Observer Radio, admitting that details regarding the arrangement between Blanchard, MLW, and CMLL were unclear.

With Blanchard now officially booked for a CMLL match against Starlight Kid on September 12, any possibility of her appearing at Fightland on the same day appears to be off the table.

Blanchard has remained with CMLL since departing TNA earlier this year. Following her release, she stated that she was asked to choose between continuing with TNA or remaining with CMLL and ultimately elected to stay with the Mexican promotion.

At the time, TNA maintained a working relationship with AAA, which is now owned by WWE. While Blanchard had previously been permitted to work for both TNA and CMLL, reports surfaced suggesting TNA officials were unhappy with some of her appearances for CMLL shortly before her departure.

As of now, neither MLW nor Blanchard has publicly addressed the removal of her promotional materials from the company’s website. What is clear is that Blanchard will not be appearing at MLW Fightland on September 12, as she is scheduled to face Starlight Kid for CMLL on the same date. However, whether that means her relationship with MLW has ended entirely or was only ever intended to be a one-off appearance remains unclear.

AEW Among Several Companies Interested In Signing Kairi Sane

Former WWE star Kairi Sane could soon be headed to a new promotion, as a new report indicates that multiple companies are interested in bringing her in following her WWE departure earlier this year.

According to Fightful Select, several promotions have expressed interest in the former Women’s Champion, with AEW reportedly among the companies that have held discussions with Sane about a potential deal.

While talks between AEW and Kairi have reportedly taken place, no agreement has been finalized at this time.

Speculation surrounding Kairi’s future intensified in recent weeks, with some fans believing she could appear at AEW All In: London. However, the report notes that a debut at the event was never realistically in the cards, as she was not expected to be signed in time and was reportedly never included in the company’s creative plans for the show.

Interest in Kairi reportedly extends beyond North America as well. Despite that, sources familiar with the situation indicated that she is not expected to join Rossy Ogawa’s Marigold promotion.

The report did not provide any update regarding a potential return to STARDOM, where Kairi enjoyed two successful runs during her career. She competed for the promotion from 2011 to 2017 before returning from 2022 to 2023. During her time there, she captured the World of Stardom Championship and established herself as one of the company’s top stars.

Kairi’s most recent WWE run began in 2023 and came to an end earlier this year. Her final appearance for the company saw her team with Asuka in a loss to Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky on Raw. Four days later, WWE released her from her contract.

Prior to that stint, Kairi spent five years with WWE between 2016 and 2021, winning multiple championships and becoming one of the company’s most popular international stars.

Back in July, reports surfaced that several promotions had shown interest in booking Kairi for non-contracted appearances, further fueling speculation about her next move.

Another notable detail is that Kairi is represented by veteran agent Barry Bloom, whose client list includes several top AEW names such as Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks, Chris Jericho, Will Ospreay, Josh Alexander, and Jim Ross.

For now, Kairi remains a free agent, but with interest reportedly coming from multiple promotions around the world, it appears only a matter of time before the former WWE star decides on the next chapter of her career.

Former AEW Star “The Butcher” Andy Williams Passes Away At Age 48

The wrestling and music worlds are mourning the reported loss of Andy Williams, known to AEW fans as The Butcher, who has died at the age of 48.

According to TMZ, Williams suffered a medical emergency following a match at an Enjoy Wrestling event in Millvale, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. Williams was teaming with longtime tag team partner Braxton Sutter, known to wrestling fans as The Blade, when he reportedly collapsed after the bout.

Medical personnel immediately attended to Williams and performed CPR before he was transported from the venue by ambulance. The remainder of the event was canceled, and fans were asked to leave the building. Details regarding the medical emergency have not been publicly disclosed.

Before becoming known to wrestling audiences around the world, Williams built a successful career in music. His original aspirations of becoming a professional wrestler were delayed after a knee injury during training. That setback ultimately led him to help form the metalcore band Every Time I Die in 1998, where he served as bassist and became a prominent figure in the heavy music scene.

Williams eventually returned to his wrestling ambitions in the 2010s, training under former UFC Heavyweight Champion Josh Barnett. His connection with Barnett led to appearances at Bloodsport events, where his hard-hitting style quickly gained attention.

In 2017, Williams teamed with Braxton Sutter to form The Butcher & The Blade, a pairing that became a regular fixture on the independent wrestling circuit. Alongside Sutter’s wife Allie, known as The Bunny, the trio developed a unique presentation that helped them stand out wherever they performed.

The group made its surprise debut in All Elite Wrestling in November 2019 and soon became a recognizable part of the company’s tag team division. During their AEW run, The Butcher & The Blade shared the ring with many of the promotion’s top teams and were involved in rivalries with acts including The Lucha Bros.

Following Allie’s departure from AEW in 2023 and Sutter’s recovery from back surgery, the team became less active in the promotion. While there had been speculation about a potential return, Williams and Sutter ultimately departed AEW when their contracts expired in June 2026.

Williams leaves behind a legacy that extended far beyond professional wrestling. Whether performing on stage with Every Time I Die or competing inside the ring as The Butcher, he built a devoted following through his passion, intensity, and unmistakable presence.

Tessa Blanchard Signs With MLW Following TNA Exit

Tessa Blanchard has found a new home in professional wrestling.

According to comments made during an appearance on TMZ‘s Inside the Ring podcast, Blanchard confirmed that she is set to join Major League Wrestling after departing TNA earlier this year.

“I’m going to be starting with MLW here soon, and I’m super, super excited for everything to come,” Blanchard said.

The move marks the first time in Blanchard’s career that she will compete under the MLW banner. The former TNA World Champion and Knockouts Champion indicated that she plans to make an immediate impact once she arrives, with her sights already set on the MLW Women’s World Championship, currently held by Shotzi Blackheart.

Blanchard also expressed interest in becoming a cornerstone of the promotion’s women’s division, suggesting she hopes to establish herself as one of the key faces of that roster moving forward.

An additional benefit of the deal is that it allows Blanchard to continue working with CMLL in Mexico. MLW’s working relationship with the lucha libre promotion gives her the flexibility to remain active in both organizations.

During the interview, Blanchard also addressed her departure from TNA, explaining that she was ultimately forced to choose between remaining with TNA or continuing her association with CMLL. She opted to stay with the Mexican promotion, leading to her exit from TNA.

Blanchard’s arrival adds another notable name to MLW’s growing women’s division and immediately creates a potential championship match with Shotzi.

Once regarded as one of the top female performers in North America, Blanchard’s career has experienced several highs and lows over the past several years. Despite the controversies and setbacks that impacted her career trajectory, she has remained active in professional wrestling through various promotions, including CMLL and TNA.

Now, with MLW officially in her future, Blanchard is preparing for the next chapter of her career and appears ready to make her presence felt as soon as she steps into an MLW ring.

Austin Creed And Kofi React To AEW Debut, Capture World Trios Gold At All In London

Austin Creed and Kofi made an unforgettable first impression in AEW.

The duo, now competing under the name The New Level, officially debuted for All Elite Wrestling during Sunday’s AEW All In: London event at Wembley Stadium. Teaming with Swerve Strickland, the former WWE stars entered the AEW World Trios Championship Roulette Royale and left with championship gold in their very first match.

Following their victory, Creed and Kofi spoke about the significance of the moment and what it meant to begin this new chapter of their careers with such a major accomplishment.

Kofi reflected on the achievement, noting that winning championships immediately after arriving in AEW felt like validation after making the jump from another promotion.

“It feels good. It feels valid,” Kofi said. “Validation to come all the way over here from another universe. On our first night out, our first match, to be in there with such prestigious teams, and look at us now. What does that say about us?”

Their partner, newly crowned Trios Champion Swerve Strickland, had a simple answer.

According to Strickland, the trio has already established themselves as history makers and intends to operate at the highest level in the industry.

“I’ll tell you what it says: history makers,” Strickland said. “All three of us. Of this generation, of this era, of this culture. Nobody is above us. Because we’re at the highest level. The New Level.”

Speculation surrounding Creed and Kofi’s future had been growing in recent days. Strickland fueled those rumors ahead of All In when he posted a cryptic message reading “New” on social media, leading many fans to believe a major debut was imminent.

That speculation became reality when the pair arrived at Wembley and helped Strickland secure the AEW World Trios Championship.

Creed and Kofi entered free agency earlier this year after departing WWE in May. The longtime tag team stars reportedly chose not to accept reduced contract offers and instead elected to explore opportunities elsewhere.

The two previously rose to prominence as members of The New Day, one of WWE’s most successful factions alongside Big E. The group became one of the most decorated teams in company history after forming in 2014. Following Big E’s neck injury in 2022 and the eventual on-screen split of The New Day in late 2024, Creed and Kofi continued their careers together before ultimately making the move to AEW.

Now officially part of the AEW roster, The New Level has already accomplished something few wrestlers ever do—winning championship gold in their debut match.

With Strickland at their side and the Trios Championships around their waists, all eyes will be on what comes next for AEW’s newest stars.

First Annual Sycho Sid Vicious Memorial Show Announced For Memphis

Memphis legend Doug Gilbert announced on X – The First Annual Sycho Sid Vicious Memorial Show.

Professional wrestling fans will have the opportunity to celebrate the life and legacy of one of the industry’s most unforgettable stars later this month.

The First Annual Sycho Sid Vicious Memorial Show is set to take place on August 29, 2026, at Minglewood Hall in Memphis, Tennessee, honoring the memory of the late Sid Vicious while supporting a cause that was close to his heart.

Presented by the Eudy family and TWO (The Wrestling Order), the inaugural event honors the legendary career of Sid Eudy (Sycho Sid / Sid Vicious). All proceeds from the event directly support local animal shelters in honor of Sid’s love for animals.

Event To Benefit Local Animal Shelters

Organizers announced that 100% of the proceeds from the event will be donated to local animal shelters.

Sid was known for his love of animals, making the charity component a fitting tribute to the wrestling icon’s legacy outside the ring.

150+ Wrestlers Scheduled For Massive Battle Rumble

The centerpiece of the event will be a massive Battle Rumble featuring more than 150 wrestlers, making it one of the most unique wrestling attractions of the year.

In addition to the oversized rumble, organizers have also announced that the show will feature at least four additional matches.

Wrestling Legends And Stars Announced

A number of notable names from across wrestling history have already been confirmed for the memorial event, including:

  • Carlito
  • Dan Spivey
  • Jonathan Gresham
  • Dangerous Doug Gilbert
  • Wildfire Tommy Rich
  • Reggie B. Fine
  • Jordynne Grace

Promoters have also teased that many more wrestling stars and legends will be announced leading up to the show.

Event Information

First Annual Sycho Sid Vicious Memorial Show

📍 Minglewood Hall – Memphis, Tennessee

📅 August 29, 2026

🕓 Meet & Greet: 4:00 PM

🔔 Bell Time: 6:00 PM

🎟️ Tickets: ticketsource.com/two

Honoring A Wrestling Legend

Sid Vicious remains one of the most recognizable stars of the 1990s, competing in WWE, WCW, ECW, USWA, and numerous other promotions throughout his Hall of Fame career.

Known for his intimidating presence, memorable promos, and multiple world championship reigns, Sid became a larger-than-life figure who left a lasting impact on the wrestling business.

Now, fans, wrestlers, and friends will gather in Memphis to celebrate his legacy while raising money for local animal shelters in a night that promises to be both memorable and meaningful.

With more than 150 wrestlers expected to participate and a lineup featuring legends from multiple generations, the inaugural Sycho Sid Vicious Memorial Show is shaping up to be a unique event dedicated to one of wrestling’s most iconic personalities.

http://ticketsource.com/two

Lance Anoa’i Announces Plans To Retire From Professional Wrestling In 2027

A member of the legendary Anoa’i wrestling family is preparing to step away from the ring.

Lance Anoa’i announced on Instagram that he plans to retire from professional wrestling in March 2027, bringing an end to a career that will span nearly 17 years.

The former WWE and MLW performer shared a lengthy statement reflecting on his time in the business and explaining why he has decided that the next chapter of his life will focus on family.

Lance Anoa’i Announces Retirement Plans

In his post, Anoa’i expressed gratitude to the fans, promoters, and fellow wrestlers who have been part of his journey since his debut.

“After almost 17 years in professional wrestling, I will be officially calling time on my in-ring career in March 2027, once I reach that 17-year milestone.”

Anoa’i noted that wrestling has provided him with countless memories and experiences, but he has reached a point where he wants to dedicate more of his time to his wife and children.

“For so many years, wrestling has taken up my weekends, my time, and countless moments away from the people I love most. I’ve reached a point where I want to dedicate that time to my wife and my kids and be there for the moments that matter most.”

He also praised his family members who continue to carry on the Anoa’i legacy in professional wrestling.

“I love what they’re building, I love being part of it in any way I can, and I will always support them 100% in everything they do going forward.”

While retirement is on the horizon, Anoa’i emphasized that he is not finished just yet.

“This isn’t goodbye just yet though. We still have a few months to go!”

Career Spanning Nearly Two Decades

Anoa’i made his professional wrestling debut in April 2010 and spent much of his career competing on the independent wrestling scene.

One of his most notable runs came in Major League Wrestling (MLW), where he captured the MLW World Tag Team Championship during his time with the promotion.

He also made several appearances on WWE television throughout the mid-to-late 2010s as enhancement talent before eventually signing a WWE contract in 2024.

WWE Run Cut Short By Injuries

After joining WWE, Anoa’i was expected to begin the next phase of his career within the company’s developmental system. However, multiple injuries prevented him from making an official in-ring appearance for WWE.

He was ultimately released by the company in October 2025 without ever wrestling a televised match under contract.

Following his WWE departure, Anoa’i shifted some of his focus toward Power Slap while continuing his involvement in combat sports and entertainment.

Final Year Begins

With retirement now officially planned for March 2027, Anoa’i enters what will be the final months of his wrestling career.

As a member of one of wrestling’s most famous families, he leaves behind a career that included nearly two decades of competition and contributions to promotions across the wrestling landscape.

For now, fans still have several months remaining to see Lance Anoa’i compete before he officially calls time on his in-ring career.

Former WWE Stars Kofi And Austin Creed Announced For Chris Jericho’s Rock ‘N’ Wrestling Rager At Sea

Former WWE Tag Team Champions Kofi Kingston and Austin Creed have been announced for Chris Jericho’s Rock ‘N’ Wrestling Rager At Sea, marking one of their first major wrestling-related appearances since becoming free agents earlier this year.

The cruise revealed the news on social media, confirming that Kingston and Creed will be part of the event as “Super Massive Guest Captains.” The pair are also listed on the official cruise website among the featured talent scheduled to appear.

First Major Appearance Since WWE Departure

Kofi and Creed became free agents following their WWE releases in April 2026 as part of the company’s post-WrestleMania 42 roster cuts.

Since then, speculation has continued regarding what the future holds for the longtime tag team stars and whether they will remain together wherever they land next.

Their inclusion on Jericho’s cruise marks another public appearance for the duo as fans continue to await news regarding their next move in professional wrestling.

Loaded Lineup Announced

The upcoming cruise is set to feature a number of wrestling legends and current stars.

Among those currently advertised are:

  • The Hardys
  • The Great Muta
  • Nic Nemeth
  • Harley Cameron
  • Kofi
  • Austin Creed

Additional wrestling personalities and musical acts are expected to be part of the event as well.

Cruise Sets Sail In November

Chris Jericho’s Rock ‘N’ Wrestling Rager At Sea is scheduled to take place from November 7-11, 2026.

The cruise will depart from Miami, Florida, and travel to Bimini, Bahamas, offering fans several days of wrestling-themed entertainment, live performances, meet-and-greets, and special events featuring some of the biggest names in the industry.

While Kofi and Creed’s long-term wrestling futures remain unknown, their appearance on the popular wrestling cruise is sure to fuel further discussion about what’s next for the former WWE stars.

Jim Ross Undergoes Successful Brain Surgery, Recovery Underway

There is encouraging news regarding WWE Hall of Famer and legendary wrestling commentator Jim Ross.

Ross’ longtime podcast co-host Conrad Thompson shared an update on social media, revealing that the procedure was successful and that JR is expected to return home later this week.

“Happy to report that our pal Jim Ross had a successful procedure this morning!

I heard from his lovely daughter this morning that everything went well and good ole JR is expected to be back home by Friday!

Please keep JR in your prayers as we hope for a speedy recovery!”

According to details that have emerged regarding the surgery, doctors drilled a small hole in Ross’ skull in order to insert a shunt. The tube will run from his brain to his stomach and is designed to help drain excess fluid and relieve pressure.

The procedure marks another health challenge for the beloved broadcaster, who has been open with fans about various medical issues in recent years. Fortunately, the initial reports following the operation have been overwhelmingly positive.

Ross remains one of the most respected voices in professional wrestling history. Over the course of a career spanning decades, he became synonymous with some of the industry’s biggest moments through his work in WWE, WCW, Mid-South Wrestling, and most recently AEW.

Following Thompson’s update, fans, wrestlers, and industry figures quickly flooded social media with messages of support and well wishes for Ross as he begins the recovery process.

With the surgery reportedly going as planned and JR expected to return home by Friday, the focus now shifts to rehabilitation and recovery.

Everyone at the wrestling community continues to wish Jim Ross a speedy recovery.