Pro wrestling icon Steve Borden—better known to fans as the legendary Sting—has revealed that 2025 will mark the end of an era. The WWE Hall of Famer and multi-promotion superstar announced on social media that next year will be his final one appearing at conventions and fan events in his signature face paint and ring gear.
“I have enjoyed meeting fans at events around the world. As much as I have loved interacting with you all in the traditional Stinger war paint, I’ve decided that 2025 will be my last year appearing in full gear. I guess it’s 2025 or never. Wow. Tough to speak that out.”
Sting’s iconic look—complete with his black-and-white face paint, trench coat, and trademark baseball bat—has been a staple of his appearances for decades, both in the ring and during fan meet-and-greets. While the wrestling legend will continue to connect with fans in other ways, 2025 will be the last chance for attendees to see “The Icon” in his full Stinger persona.
A Legendary Career Comes to a Close
Sting officially hung up his boots in 2024, following an emotional retirement match at AEW Revolution in Greensboro, North Carolina. Teaming with his protégé Darby Allin, the duo defeated The Young Bucks in what was widely regarded as a fitting sendoff to the Stinger’s storied career.
His retirement in AEW capped off a remarkable comeback that many fans thought would never happen. Sting had seemingly been forced into retirement back in 2015 after a career-threatening neck injury during his brief stint in WWE. Despite those odds, the WCW legend found a way to end his in-ring career on his own terms, delivering one final run for the fans.
Initially brought into AEW to manage Darby Allin, Sting eventually returned to in-ring action in cinematic-style matches before building up to full-scale brawls and traditional matches. His AEW tenure even included a tag team title reign with Allin—a feel-good moment for fans who saw the two as a natural pairing. The pair’s title reign concluded with Sting retiring as champion, resulting in the titles being vacated.
Closing the Chapter
As Sting prepares to enter this new phase of his life, fans will undoubtedly cherish these final opportunities to interact with him in his classic gear. From his days as a WCW megastar to his unforgettable return in AEW, Sting has proven time and again why he’s regarded as one of the greatest in pro wrestling history.
2025 might be “now or never,” as Sting put it, but his legacy will endure far beyond his last face-painted appearance. Fans who have idolized “The Icon” for decades can look forward to celebrating his unparalleled career one final time next year.
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.
It seems the grass might be greener on the other side for some All Elite Wrestling (AEW) talent. According to a report from Lucha Libre Online, a number of AEW wrestlers unhappy with their roles in the promotion are now viewing WWE as a more appealing option. This shift in attitude comes as more former AEW talent find success in WWE, with recent examples fueling speculation about potential moves.
Changing Perceptions of WWE
In the early years of AEW, many believed WWE wasn’t a viable destination for disgruntled talent. Concerns about being “lost in the shuffle” on WWE’s massive roster, coupled with its often-criticized corporate culture, made jumping ship seem unappealing. However, that perception is changing—especially after the notable success of former AEW stars in WWE.
The most recent example? Penta’s debut on RAW this past week, where he delivered a standout performance and defeated Chad Gable in an impressive match. Penta’s instant impact has reportedly given AEW wrestlers confidence that their time in AEW could serve as a strong resume when negotiating with WWE.
Success Stories Turning Heads
The report highlights other former AEW talent who have thrived in WWE, such as Ethan Page and Lexis King (formerly Brian Pillman Jr.). Both wrestlers had relatively quiet runs in AEW but have seen their stock rise since joining WWE. Ethan Page has become a key player in NXT, while Lexis King has been given a fresh start with a new persona that fans and WWE officials alike have embraced.
These success stories haven’t gone unnoticed by AEW’s roster, particularly those feeling underutilized or frustrated with their current roles. For many, the idea of a fresh start under WWE’s revamped management has become more enticing.
A Culture Shift in WWE
Another factor influencing AEW talent’s interest in WWE is the reported culture shift within WWE itself. Changes in management—stemming from Vince McMahon stepping back and Triple H taking a larger role in creative—have made the company more attractive. Under Triple H’s leadership, the creative direction is reportedly more talent-friendly, with increased focus on meaningful storylines and long-term character development.
This cultural change, combined with WWE’s global platform and financial stability, is making it a more viable option for wrestlers who may not feel creatively fulfilled in AEW.
What’s Driving the Frustration in AEW?
AEW’s rapid growth and star-studded roster have created an undeniable wealth of talent, but that has also led to challenges in ensuring everyone gets their moment in the spotlight. Wrestlers lower on the card—or those stuck in creative limbo—may feel overshadowed by the constant influx of new signings and the heavy focus on established stars like Kenny Omega, MJF, and Jon Moxley.
The frustrations reported by AEW talent are not uncommon in wrestling promotions with stacked rosters. However, the growing sentiment that WWE might offer greener pastures indicates that AEW could face retention challenges if these feelings persist.
What This Means for Wrestling Fans
The wrestling world is buzzing with possibilities. If more AEW talent make the jump to WWE, it could create fresh opportunities for dream matches and shake-ups on both rosters. For WWE, bringing in AEW alumni allows them to capitalize on the buzz surrounding AEW’s reputation for creating stars. For AEW, however, this trend could mean reevaluating how they manage and showcase their talent to prevent further departures.
As for fans, this growing talent pipeline between AEW and WWE only enhances the unpredictability of professional wrestling. With the free-agent market heating up, who knows which AEW stars might be Raw, SmackDown, or NXT-bound next?
Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for more updates on this story and all the latest happenings in the wrestling world!
Amidst the chaos of one of Los Angeles’ largest wildfires in recent history, former WWE Superstar and SmackDown Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey welcomed her second child into the world. She and husband Travis Browne celebrated the arrival of their daughter, giving her a Hawaiian name to honor Browne’s heritage, as they did with their first-born.
Sharing the news on social media, Rousey wrote: “Our little girl came into this world during a windstorm into a city on fire, so grateful she made it safe and sound, Liko’ula Pā’ūomahinakaipiha Browne.”
The former WWE star had announced her pregnancy back in July 2024 during San Diego Comic-Con, where she was promoting her graphic novel, Expecting the Unexpected. The project was part of her Kickstarter campaign, showcasing how Rousey has pivoted to creative and entrepreneurial ventures since stepping away from the squared circle.
A Rocky Journey in WWE
Rousey hasn’t shied away from reflecting on her time with WWE. In an August 2024 podcast appearance, she detailed the highs and lows of her wrestling career. Her debut run was an exciting challenge, bolstered by guidance from industry legends like Triple H, Kurt Angle, Shawn Michaels, and Michael Hayes. With their support, she was well-prepared for her first match, a highly praised outing at WrestleMania 34.
However, Rousey explained that the collaborative environment didn’t last. Over time, the assistance she relied on began to dwindle, leaving her feeling increasingly unsupported. This change, coupled with her criticisms of WWE’s creative decisions, marked the end of her tenure with the promotion. Rousey has been candid about her experiences, offering fans a glimpse into the struggles behind her meteoric rise in professional wrestling.
Focused on Family and New Ventures
Since her WWE departure, Rousey has kept busy with a mix of personal and professional pursuits. Beyond her graphic novel, she has made appearances on various podcasts, conducted interviews, and pursued other creative outlets. Now, with the birth of her second child, it seems her priorities have shifted further toward family life.
Given her later experiences with WWE and her current focus, fans shouldn’t expect to see Rousey in a wrestling ring anytime soon—if ever. For now, the “Rowdy” one appears content blazing her own trail, far from the spotlight of combat sports.
Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for updates on your favorite wrestling personalities, both in and out of the ring!
Tonight’s WWE Raw will be the final episode airing live on the USA Network from the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. The show moves to Netflix beginning next week January 6, 2025.
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship Tournament Semifinal Match: Dakota Kai vs. Zoey Stark
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship Tournament Semifinal Match: IYO SKY vs. Lyra Valkyria
Damian Priest and WWE World Tag Team Champions The War Raiders vs. Judgment Day’s Finn Balor, JD McDonagh and Dominik Mysterio
WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield, better known as JBL, is proving that his larger-than-life persona extends far beyond the ring. After a year filled with appearances across various wrestling promotions, the former WWE Champion is gearing up for a monumental new chapter in his career.
During a recent interview on the Something To Wrestle With podcast, JBL teased a high-stakes project he’s planning for 2025. Though the specifics remain under wraps, Layfield made it clear that he’s pouring everything into this endeavor, even if it comes with significant risks.
A Leap Into the Unknown
JBL expressed excitement and determination about his upcoming plans, sharing, “I’ve got some really cool plans starting to come together. This year, it’s going to be attempted. I’m 100% sure of that. Whether it works or not, we’ll see—but I think it will. I’m working my tail off to make it happen.”
He also revealed that 2025 is already shaping up to be a milestone year. “I’ve got a couple of really big things not just tentatively planned but actually scheduled and locked in the calendar,” Layfield said. “I’m building everything around those two different places right now.”
The Thrill of Risk
One of the most intriguing aspects of JBL’s announcement is his fearless approach to taking chances. The self-proclaimed “Wrestling God” said, “I’ve been planning this for the better part of a year, and it’s all going to come to fruition. Either it’s going to work big, or I’m going to go down in flames. One of the two—and I don’t care. I’m going all in.”
For fans of JBL, this bold mindset comes as no surprise. Throughout his storied career, Layfield has consistently thrived on challenges, whether in the ring, at the commentary desk, or in his successful ventures outside of wrestling.
What Could JBL Be Planning?
The nature of JBL’s 2025 project remains a mystery, but his comments suggest it could be something ambitious and game-changing. Whether it’s tied to wrestling, business, or another passion entirely, one thing is clear—Layfield is embracing the high-stakes mentality that made him a household name in the first place.
Stay tuned to see how JBL’s vision unfolds. Will he strike gold once again, or will this gamble lead to an unforgettable lesson in risk-taking? Either way, the journey is guaranteed to be as compelling as his in-ring career.
The wrestling world is mourning the loss of Jeremy Laymon, better known to fans as Jax Dane. The National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) announced Dane’s passing on Thursday, revealing that the former NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion died on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at the age of 48 due to complications from a heart attack he suffered in late November.
A Champion’s Journey
Jax Dane began his professional wrestling career in 2012, making his debut with NWA Houston alongside Raymond Rowe—now known as Erik of WWE’s War Raiders. Together, they formed the tag team “The Path of Resistance,” establishing themselves as a force in the NWA scene.
Dane’s career soon skyrocketed, with appearances in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) in 2013, where he squared off with internationally renowned talents like KUSHIDA, Shelton Benjamin, and the team of Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson.
In 2015, Dane achieved a rare feat, capturing both the NWA National Heavyweight Championship and the prestigious NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship. He claimed the world title by defeating Hiroyoshi Tenzan, a former IWGP Heavyweight Champion, cementing his place in NWA history. Dane held the gold for an impressive 419 days, one of the longest reigns of the modern NWA era, before losing it to Tim Storm in 2016.
Beyond the NWA
After his world title reign, Dane ventured into other major promotions. He appeared in Ring of Honor, Ohio Valley Wrestling, and even IMPACT Wrestling under the name Wilcox. Despite his travels, Dane’s connection to the NWA remained strong. He returned to the organization in 2020, where he secured the NWA National Heavyweight Championship twice more.
Most recently, Dane was seen wrestling in October 2024 on an episode of NWA Powerrr, where he teamed with Tim Storm to defeat Jake Dumas and Zyon. This return to the ring showcased his enduring passion for the sport and his continued commitment to the NWA.
Tributes to a Legend
Tim Storm, a former rival and later a tag team partner of Dane, expressed his admiration and grief in a statement shared by the NWA.
“Very few people have been as influential to my wrestling career as Jax,” Storm said. “He was completely unselfish. That is no more evident than in our current tag team. He put me squarely on his shoulders and made it happen.”
Dane’s legacy in professional wrestling is one of strength, resilience, and generosity. From his dominant title reigns to his willingness to elevate others, Jax Dane’s impact on the sport will not be forgotten.
Remembering Jax Dane
As fans and fellow wrestlers reflect on his storied career, Jax Dane will be remembered as a powerhouse in the ring and a mentor outside of it. His contributions to the NWA and the wider wrestling world leave a lasting imprint, ensuring his legacy endures for years to come.
The wrestling world is mourning the loss of Miguel Angel Lopez Dias, better known as Rey Misterio Sr., who passed away at the age of 66. The news was confirmed in a heartfelt statement shared on Facebook by one of his sons, marking the end of an era for lucha libre.
A Pioneer of Lucha Libre
Rey Misterio Sr. was a trailblazer in Mexican wrestling, with a career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the industry. While most of his in-ring legacy was built in Mexico, Misterio Sr. also made appearances in WCW during the 1990s and continued to perform on the U.S. independent circuit through the 2000s. His contributions to wrestling were not confined to his own career—he played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of lucha libre stars.
A Master Trainer
Rey Misterio Sr. was not just a celebrated wrestler but also a renowned trainer, passing on his knowledge to some of wrestling’s most recognizable names. He helped mold the careers of his nephew, Rey Misterio Jr. (later renamed Rey Mysterio in WWE), and his son, Hijo del Rey Mysterio. Misterio Sr. also trained lucha libre legends like Konnan and Psicosis, who went on to enjoy prominent careers in promotions such as WCW and beyond.
A Legacy That Lives On
Rey Misterio Jr., Misterio Sr.’s nephew, became one of the most influential lucha libre stars in the world. From his groundbreaking matches in WCW to his iconic WWE career, Rey Mysterio Jr. has carried his uncle’s legacy to global audiences. His storied journey culminated in a WWE Hall of Fame induction in 2023, a testament to the impact Rey Misterio Sr.’s mentorship had on the industry.
Remembering a Legend
Rey Misterio Sr.’s contributions to professional wrestling extended far beyond the ring. As both a performer and a mentor, he played a crucial role in elevating lucha libre’s status worldwide. His passing marks the loss of a true icon, but his influence will continue to resonate through the wrestlers he trained and the fans who admired his work.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. Rey Misterio Sr. will forever be remembered as a cornerstone of lucha libre and a beloved figure in the wrestling community.
Former AEW World Tag Team Champion Penta El Zero Miedo has officially made waves outside of AEW following his recent contract expiration. The masked star shocked fans with a surprise appearance in AAA, where he delivered an emotional goodbye to his supporters in Mexico—though he promised a return at some point in the future.
Penta’s departure from AEW marks the end of a five-year journey with Tony Khan’s promotion, but it didn’t come without controversy. The Lucha Brothers—Penta and his brother Rey Fenix—haven’t appeared on AEW programming since August, fueling speculation about backstage tension. Now, with Penta gone and Fenix still under contract due to injury time extensions, their once-dominant AEW run appears fractured.
Fenix, in particular, has been vocal about his frustrations with AEW, recently taking to social media to call out the company for what he described as “inhumane treatment.” He also alleged that AEW ignored his medical needs for months during his recovery. With Penta’s exit and Fenix still embroiled in this tense situation, the brothers’ futures remain a hot topic in the wrestling world.
The intrigue surrounding Penta doesn’t stop there. WWE has reportedly expressed significant interest in signing both Penta and Rey Fenix, adding to the speculation that the Lucha Brothers could be on the verge of joining the global powerhouse. Penta, however, isn’t short on suitors. Multiple promotions are said to have reached out with offers, reflecting his value as both an in-ring performer and an international star.
Penta’s résumé speaks for itself. Before his AEW stint, he made his mark in TNA Wrestling—now Impact Wrestling—where he held the Impact World Championship. His unique blend of charisma, high-flying moves, and hard-hitting style has made him a fan favorite wherever he’s competed.
While Penta bids farewell to AEW and Mexico for now, the wrestling landscape is ripe for his next move. Whether he reunites with his brother under WWE’s banner or explores other opportunities, Penta El Zero Miedo’s future promises to be as exciting as his career thus far.
Stay tuned for updates on where Penta lands next and whether we’ll see the Lucha Brothers dominate a new stage together.
Over the last few years, AEW was often viewed as a haven for wrestlers seeking creative freedom and a fresh start. Many WWE stars flocked to the promotion, praising its management and direction. However, in recent times, cracks in that narrative have begun to surface, with some talent publicly sharing negative experiences. The latest name to express frustration? Rey Fenix.
Rey Fenix, one-half of the Lucha Brothers alongside his brother Penta El Zero Miedo, has seemingly called out AEW’s handling of his medical needs and contract situation. It all stems from a complicated saga surrounding their AEW contracts, which were reportedly extended due to injury time.
On social media, Fenix didn’t hold back, claiming he was subjected to what he described as “inhumane treatment” by AEW. He took to X (formerly Twitter) to shed light on the issue, writing, “I needed a doctor and you ignored me for months.” This pointed statement adds to an ongoing conversation about AEW’s medical protocols, which have been criticized in the past. CM Punk, for example, alleged that AEW failed to cover his medical expenses—an accusation that led to Tony Khan publicly refuting the claim.
The timing of Fenix’s comments has sparked even more speculation. According to Dr. Chris Featherstone of Sportskeeda, sources within AEW have denied the recent rumors that Tony Khan reacted to news of the Lucha Brothers jumping to WWE. However, Featherstone hinted there’s another reason behind the apparent discontent, which will reportedly come to light soon. Fenix himself responded to this report, commenting, “So far the most accurate comment,” adding further fuel to the fire.
As of now, Fenix remains under contract with AEW, and it’s unclear if his social media posts will lead to disciplinary action. What’s equally puzzling is why Fenix chose to speak out while still tied to the promotion. For a wrestler as respected and talented as Fenix, his frustrations paint a troubling picture of AEW’s backstage operations.
With AEW’s medical policies under scrutiny once again and questions swirling about talent treatment, it’s a situation worth keeping an eye on. Will Fenix’s grievances lead to further fallout within AEW, or will this simply fade away as another chapter in the company’s growing pains? Time will tell.
Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to develop.
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