Category: WWE

WWE NXT Gold Rush Preview 11/18/2025

WWE presents NXT Gold Rush, a two week event from The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Title’s from NXT, TNA, AAA and Evolve will be defended.

NXT Gold Rush week 1 live on The CW from The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York;

NXT Women’s Championship: Tatum Paxley (c) vs. Jacy Jayne
NXT Women’s North American Championship: Blake Monroe (c) vs. Sol Ruca
AAA Mixed Tag Team Championship: Chelsea Green and Ethan Page (c) vs. Thea Hail and Joe Hendry
NXT Tag Team Championship: DarkState (c) vs. Leon Slater and Je’Von Evans

Report: John Cena Expected To Headline 2026 WWE Hall of Fame Class Alongside Stephanie McMahon

We’re still months away from WrestleMania season, but the 2026 WWE Hall of Fame conversation is already heating up—much earlier than usual. Stephanie McMahon was announced back in September as the first official inductee, and for a while she seemed like the obvious headliner. But according to the latest backstage buzz, she may be sharing that spotlight with one of WWE’s most iconic names.

On Wrestling Observer Radio, Bryan Alvarez revealed that chatter behind the scenes at Monday’s WWE Raw pointed toward John Cena being lined up as the marquee inductee for the 2026 class. While nothing is confirmed, Alvarez noted that the idea was circulating heavily among those backstage.

“As of Monday night, the belief is the headliner would be John Cena,” Alvarez said. “Maybe things change, but that was certainly the discussion. With Stephanie already announced, Cena and Stephanie would be the two biggest names if that’s what ends up happening.”

If this comes together, the induction would take place during WrestleMania weekend in 2026—and honestly, the timing couldn’t be more fitting.

Cena’s Hall of Fame case has been locked in for years. Between his unprecedented run as WWE’s franchise star for two decades, his crossover success in mainstream entertainment, and his still-strong relationship with the company, it was always just a matter of when WWE would pull the trigger.

Now the “when” lines up perfectly with Cena’s current farewell tour. He’s set to wrestle his final match on the December 13 edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington, D.C., officially closing the in-ring chapter of his career. Having him headline the Hall of Fame just a few months later would tie his retirement story together in classic WWE fashion.

If Cena is indeed added to the 2026 class, WWE will be stacking WrestleMania weekend with two of the most influential figures of the last 25 years—one a trailblazing executive, the other the face of an entire era.

We’ll keep you updated as WWE begins rolling out official announcements for the 2026 Hall of Fame.

Report: “WWE SmackDown” Expected To Shift Back to Three Hours in Early 2026

It looks like WWE’s blue brand might be gearing up for another major schedule shake-up. According to a new report from WrestleVotes, SmackDown is expected to expand back to a three-hour format beginning in early 2026.

Per the report, sources indicate that WWE and USA Network have already agreed to the change, with the first extended broadcast slated for January 2 in Buffalo, NY. While the decision reportedly has been made, there’s no word yet on what prompted the move—or what the extra hour might mean for the show’s structure or roster focus.

This would mark SmackDown’s second runtime switch in less than a year. The brand originally bumped up to three hours in January when Raw moved from USA Network to Netflix. By June, SmackDown reverted back to its traditional two-hour window, a shift rumored to be tied to the network debut of The Rainmaker series. That season wrapped in mid-October, and there hadn’t been any chatter about a runtime change since—until now.

What makes this even more interesting is that previous reports following WrestleMania 41 suggested the opposite—that SmackDown would be locked in at the two-hour format over the summer. Clearly, plans evolved behind the scenes.

As of Friday’s show, neither WWE nor USA Network has officially confirmed the return to three hours, but if the report holds true, the shift will land right before the 2026 Royal Rumble on January 31 in Riyadh—effectively kicking off WrestleMania season with more weekly airtime than ever.

The conversation also comes at a time when ratings across all major wrestling programs have been recalibrated due to Nielsen’s new “Big Data + Panel” measurement system, which has shaken viewership trends industry-wide.

If SmackDown really is going long again, the added hour could bring new opportunities—or risk the pacing and fatigue issues fans often associate with three-hour wrestling shows. For now, all eyes are on WWE and USA Network for the official call.

TNA’s Nic Nemeth Returned On Raw As Dolph Ziggler In ‘Last Time Is Now’ Tournament

In a surprise that lit up social media before the bell even rang, former TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth stepped back into WWE rings Monday night—only this time he re-embraced the persona fans know best: Dolph Ziggler. The longtime WWE standout returned on “Raw” as a mystery entrant in the “Last Time Is Now” tournament, a high-stakes bracket that will determine who gets the honor of facing John Cena in his final match at Saturday Night’s Main Event.

But Ziggler’s comeback run hit a wall early, courtesy of Solo Sikoa.

After “Raw” GM Adam Pearce kept Sikoa’s opponent under wraps all night, Ziggler emerged to a huge reaction. Sikoa made his entrance with Talla Tonga at his side, though he wouldn’t end up needing any backup. Ziggler came out hot, trying to overwhelm Sikoa with quick strikes and a series of elbow drops as he looked to shake off any ring rust.

The former World Heavyweight Champion pushed the pace, even locking in an early submission attempt that forced Sikoa to scramble for the ropes. When the action spilled to the floor, Ziggler bounced Sikoa off the announce desk, giving himself a brief opening. Back inside, a top-rope elbow and the Blonde Ambition weren’t enough—Sikoa kicked out with authority each time.

Momentum shifted when Ziggler lined up for Sweet Chin Music. Sikoa caught the first attempt, but Ziggler still managed to land a clean shot moments later. The problem? It didn’t keep Sikoa down for long. As Ziggler tried to regain his balance, Sikoa blasted him with a devastating Samoan Spike, dropping the 19-year WWE veteran for the three-count.

With the win, Solo Sikoa advances in the tournament, inching closer to a potential showdown with John Cena. As for Ziggler, his WWE return created plenty of buzz—even if his run in the bracket ended just as quickly as it began.

WWE Raw Preview 11/17/2025

WWE Raw live tonight on Netflix from Madison Square Garden in New York City

  • John Cena will open Raw – he is set to compete in his final match on the red brand and also is his final time in Madison Square Garden.
  • WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch (c) vs. Maxxine Dupri
  • Nikki Bella will reveal the reason why she turned on WWE Women’s World Champion Stephanie Vaquer
  • The Last Time is Now Tournament First-Round Match: Solo Sikoa vs. TBA
  • The Last Time is Now Tournament First-Round Match: Gunther vs. Je’Von Evans

According to BodySlam+, former WWE Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan, former Undisputed WWE Champion Roman Reigns, and recently returned former Divas Champion AJ Lee are all expected backstage for Monday night’s show. There is no word on whether any of them will be on the show itself, or if they will even show up, as the list was only of “expected” WWE stars who were supposed to be backstage. 

Legendary Mid-Atlantic & WCW Announcer Bob Caudle Passes Away at 95

The wrestling world is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic voices, as Bob Caudle, a staple of Mid-Atlantic, NWA, and WCW programming for decades, has passed away at the age of 95. His son Mike confirmed the news, sharing that Caudle died peacefully in his sleep.

Caudle’s career in broadcasting began humbly in Wilmington, North Carolina, before moving to Savannah, Georgia, where he first stepped into the world of wrestling as the host of a studio show. After returning to North Carolina, he became the weatherman for Raleigh’s WRAL — the same station where NWA Atlantic Wrestling was taped weekly — setting the stage for the role that would cement his place in wrestling history.

For fans of Jim Crockett Promotions, Caudle’s voice is unforgettable. He fronted some of the company’s most recognizable programs, including All-Star Wrestling, Wide World Wrestling, Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling, and World Wide Wrestling. His calm, steady delivery and genuine warmth made him one of wrestling’s most beloved broadcasters.

Caudle also teamed with Jim Ross on several major NWA/WCW pay-per-views in the late ’80s, adding credibility and tradition during a transformative time for the company. After leaving WCW in 1991, he continued calling action in Smoky Mountain Wrestling until the promotion closed its doors.

Bob Caudle’s contributions helped shape the sound and feel of an entire era of professional wrestling. His legacy lives on through countless classic broadcasts and the many fans who grew up hearing his signature sign-off: “So long for now.”

WrestlingNewsBlog extends heartfelt condolences to the Caudle family and everyone touched by his legendary career.

Matt Cardona Reemerges as Zack Ryder on SmackDown, Come Up Short In ‘Last Time Is Now’ Tournament

The “Last Time Is Now” tournament kept rolling on this week’s WWE SmackDown from Albany, and fans got a surprise throwback appearance that nobody saw coming.

Jey Uso Advances — But Brackets Still a Mystery

The night opened with Jey Uso knocking off The Miz to secure his place in the next round. WWE still hasn’t revealed the tournament bracket, so we’re left guessing who Main Event Jey will collide with next.

LA Knight Gets a Mystery Opponent… Woo Woo Woo?!

Later in the show, LA Knight came prepared for a mystery opponent — but the crowd inside MVP Arena erupted when the curtain parted to reveal Matt Cardona, fully revived in his classic Zack Ryder persona. Same name, same color scheme, same entrance. The whole package.

This was Ryder’s first match on the main roster in more than five years, with his last WWE appearance coming during an NXT cameo back in 2019 where he lost to Josh Briggs.

Ryder Puts Up a Fight, Knight Puts Him Down

Cardona didn’t look out of place at all and came in swinging, clearly aiming to make the most of the moment. But despite a strong showing, LA Knight cut him off and sealed the win with the BFT, punching his ticket to the tournament’s next stage.

Whether Ryder’s return is a one-night nostalgia hit or something more permanent remains to be seen — but the crowd reaction made one thing clear: Albany knew it.

TNA Turning Point 11/14/25 (Results) – Dezmond Xavier (fka Wes Lee) returns – NXT Invasion

Countdown Pre-Show Highlights

• Kazarian rolls in as “the champ that matters.”
New TNA World Champion Frankie Kazarian arrived all swagger, brushing off Mike Santana as “yesterday’s news.” His attitude would be a theme for the night.

• Santino secures the building.
After NXT’s hostile appearance on Impact, Santino Marella put security on every door. According to him, this was a “closed set” situation.

• Jake Something wins chaotic three-way.
Jake Something outlasted Mance Warner and the mysterious Home Town Man in a wild opener. After Warner got distracted by Steph De Lander, the Home Town Man hit Sliced Bread… only to be snatched up by Jake and slammed Into the Void for the victory.

Kazarian’s Coronation — and Another Accusation

Kazarian rolled out his “King’s Speech,” bragging that his title win was his dream and the fans’ nightmare. He insisted he did not orchestrate the NXT invasion, though TNA President Carlos Silva revealed Kaz is on the investigation list.

Nic Nemeth interrupted and pointed the finger directly at Kaz. Nemeth vowed he’d cash in his Call Your Shot trophy later tonight — but first, they had business as reluctant tag partners.

Turning Point: Full Results

Kelani Jordan retains the Knockouts Championship

Kelani Jordan survived a physical showdown with M by Elegance. After M muscled her around and hit a fireman’s carry driver, the champ battled back, targeted the leg, and finished it with a split-legged moonsault.

Backstage, Gia Miller’s post-match interview was derailed by Ryan Nemeth, who chirped that the only story worth covering was whether his brother would cash in tonight.

NXT fallout continues

Ava denied any involvement with the NXT invasion, reminding Santino that NXT is her turf — but TNA is his to manage. Arianna Grace backed up her father and kept the peace.

AJ Francis overpowers BDE

YouTuber-turned-competitor BDE came out hot with dives, speed, and a slick Canadian Destroyer counter — but it wasn’t enough to topple the powerhouse. Francis flattened him with a spear and back-to-back chokeslams to seal the win.

No DQ: Indi Hartwell defeats Dani Luna

This one was as messy as advertised. Chairs, ladders, powder — you name it. The finish came when Hartwell drilled Luna with a Hurts Donut onto a steel chair after an elbow drop that sent both women crashing through a table.

Knockouts Tag Champs retain in triple threat turmoil

With Tessa Blanchard not cleared, Victoria Crawford drafted Mila Moore as her replacement partner. Things broke down fast, and in the chaos, The IInspiration caught Xia Brookside and planted her with the Idolizer to keep the gold.

Order 4 steals a win over Hardys & Cedric Alexander

The Hardys were rolling until Tasha Steelz cut off Jeff on the top rope. Ali tried to capitalize but wiped out Steelz instead. Matt hit a double Twist of Fate and nearly stole it, but Agent Zero yanked out the referee. Order 4 swarmed Alexander, and Ali snagged a low-blow roll-up for the cheap victory.

The Rascalz reunite — with Dezmond Xavier — to beat The System

A surprise eruption: Dezmond Xavier (fka Wes Lee) returned to team with The Rascalz in an eight-man sprint. Myron Reed hit highlight-reel cutters, Hot Fire Flame landed everywhere, and Xavier sealed the win with a picture-perfect Spiral Tap on Johnny Dango Curtis. Respect was shown all around afterward.

Eric Young points fingers at Santino

Young confronted the Director of Authority and accused him of being the mastermind behind the NXT assaults. He ominously warned a “cleanse” was coming.

X-Division: Leon Slater guts out a win over Rich Swann

Despite taking a nasty shot to the eye early and struggling with his balance, the young champion powered through. Slater reversed Swann into a Styles Clash and followed with the Swanton 450 to retain.

Post-match, TNA honored Slater’s late grandmother. Slater also mentioned he’s eyeing NXT Gold Rush, hoping to become the youngest NXT Tag Team Champion alongside Je’Von Evans.

Tag Team Main Event — and a Wild Post-Match Twist

Mike Santana finally shows, teaming with Steve Maclin to beat Kazarian & Nic Nemeth

Maclin had to start the match alone after Santana was absent all night. The former Marine held his own until distractions caught up. Just when Kaz and Nemeth were running the numbers, Santana stormed out, heavily taped but explosive. He drilled Kaz with the Spin The Block discus lariat to score the win.

But the night wasn’t over.

NXT Raids TNA… Again

Nic Nemeth seemed poised to cash in his Call Your Shot trophy on a downed Kazarian — but before the referee could make it official, the NXT contingent hit the ring en masse.

Robert Stone, Lexis King, Charlie Dempsey, High Ryze, Stacks, and Brooks Jensen overwhelmed everyone in sight. Even The Hardys couldn’t swing the tide with chairs. NXT closed the night standing tall over a wrecked TNA roster.

WWE SmackDown Preview 11/14/2025

WWE airs live tonight beginning at 8:00 pm ET on the USA Network in the United States and Netflix for international fans from the MVP Arena in Albany, NY.

  • The Last Time Is Now Tournament First-Round Match: Jey Uso vs. The Miz
  • The Last Time Is Now Tournament First-Round Match: LA Knight vs. Mystery Opponent
  • WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill vs. B-Fab (Non-Title Match)
  • Sami Zayn has a message for Solo Sikoa

Joe Hendry Reportedly Wraps Up With TNA, Now Under WWE Contract

Joe Hendry’s momentum hasn’t slowed down for a second — and it looks like WWE is officially cashing in on the buzz.

After weeks of fans speculating about his future, Fightful Select is reporting that Hendry is finished with TNA and has now signed with WWE, finally answering one of the biggest questions coming out of his recent NXT appearances.

Quiet Exit From TNA?

According to the report, Hendry is no longer part of TNA’s internal creative plans. While he may still be spotted backstage at upcoming TNA events — he lives nearby and is tight with much of the roster — he’s not expected to appear on-screen. Essentially, all signs point to his run with TNA being over.

WWE Wanted Him Badly

One of the most interesting details from Fightful’s report is just how much WWE officials, particularly Shawn Michaels, have been pushing to land Hendry. Michaels has reportedly been a fan of Hendry’s work for a long time and strongly advocated for WWE to bring him in.

The twist? Hendry’s TNA contract wasn’t actually set to expire yet. Fightful’s sources suggest he still had months left on his deal, which implies one thing — WWE likely bought him out to expedite his jump to NXT.

TNA Pushed Back Publicly

Just a few weeks ago, TNA President Carlos Silva insisted that Hendry was still a TNA talent and would remain one “until he’s not.” At the time, Silva framed Hendry’s NXT appearances as part of the working agreement between TNA and WWE.

Well… it seems we’re officially at the “he’s not” part.

What’s Next for Hendry in WWE?

Hendry has already been connecting with the NXT audience in a way very few newcomers do. Fans loudly backed him in his feud with Ethan Page, and his charisma has made him an instant standout. With WWE now reportedly locking him in, don’t be surprised if his NXT presence grows quickly — or if he becomes one of the next big crossover stars to jump to the main roster.

One thing’s for sure: you believe in Joe Hendry — and now, apparently, so does WWE enough to buy him out.