Category: WWE

Former WWE Champion Suspended from Wrestling in Tijuana for 180 Days

A former WWE Champion has found himself in hot water south of the border.

Alberto El Patrón (formerly known as Alberto Del Rio in WWE) has been suspended from wrestling in Tijuana, Mexico, for 180 days. The decision was handed down by the Tijuana Wrestling Commission following a controversial incident at a recent event.

Translated from Spanish by Google

“Alberto El Patrón (also known as Alberto del Río in WWE) has been suspended by the Tijuana Commission for six months due to what happened at a AAA event this past Friday.

During his main event match against Dr. Wagner Jr., Alberto confronted a fan who threw several coins at him, which angered him and prompted him to go look for him in the audience.

This got to the point where El Patrón threw a chair at the fan, only to be hit with another chair himself, starting a fight in which an elderly woman was injured and had to be taken to the hospital.

He will not be able to fight in Tijuana for the next 180 days.”

Below is a statement from the Tijuana Commission:

“In the city of Tijuana, Baja California, on the 17th day of March 2025, in the facilities of the honorable wrestling commission, located at 12421 Diaz Ordaz Boulevard, estate El Paraiso, zip code 22440, in an extraordinary meeting and with the presence of a legal quorum, it was determined that in accordance with the established in the wrestling regulations for the city of Tijuana, Baja California, it was determined that the wrestling regulations for the city of Tijuana, Baja California, would be in effect on the 17th day of March, 2025.
Tijuana Baja California.

The professional wrestler Alberto Del Rio is suspended for 180 days in the city of Tijuana.
In the city of Tijuana, Baja California on the 17th day of the month of March, 2025, the present notice is hereby given, for all the effects that may be applicable, at the offices of the Honorable Wrestling Commission, in the city of Tijuana, Baja California”.

While specific details about what led to the suspension remain unclear, it’s not the first time El Patrón has faced issues outside the ring. The former WWE Champion has had a history of controversies throughout his career, both professionally and personally. This latest development could have significant implications for his status in the Mexican wrestling scene, as Tijuana is a major hub for lucha libre promotions.

El Patrón has continued to wrestle on the independent circuit following his last WWE run, making appearances in various promotions across the U.S. and Mexico. However, this suspension could limit his opportunities in one of Mexico’s most active wrestling markets.

It remains to be seen if El Patrón will address the suspension publicly or if any appeals will be made. For now, he will have to sit on the sidelines in Tijuana for the next six months.

What’s Going On with Hikuleo and Lance Anoa’i in WWE?

Back in 2024, WWE made a couple of intriguing signings that had fans speculating about the future of The Bloodline. The company brought in former NJPW star Hikuleo—brother of Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa—and former MLW standout Lance Anoa’i, a direct cousin of Roman Reigns, Jey Uso, and Jimmy Uso. Given their family ties, it seemed like a natural fit for them to join the dominant faction. However, nearly a year later, neither man has appeared on WWE television, leading to growing questions about their status.

On the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer provided an update on both Hikuleo and Anoa’i, but even he seemed uncertain about WWE’s plans. Meltzer did confirm that Hikuleo is under contract, despite some speculation to the contrary. However, the reason behind his absence remains a mystery.

“He’s been in Orlando forever,” Meltzer noted. “They just haven’t decided… I don’t know what the deal is. Maybe they’re waiting until he’s ready for the main roster and don’t want to put him in NXT early. I don’t know… but they have a reason.”

One thing Meltzer made clear is that WWE remains high on Hikuleo, and he hasn’t heard any negative reports about the 6’8″ powerhouse. That said, the same can’t be said for Lance Anoa’i. While Anoa’i was initially believed to be off TV due to an injury, Meltzer mentioned that there has been some criticism of his potential within the company, though he didn’t specify exactly what those concerns were.

With The Bloodline storyline continuing to evolve, it’s possible WWE is waiting for the right moment to introduce Hikuleo—or perhaps they have other plans entirely. As for Anoa’i, his WWE future seems a little more uncertain at this point. Either way, fans will have to keep watching to see if these two ever make their long-awaited debuts.

WWE NXT Preview 3/18/2025

WWE NXT tonight on The CW.

  • WWE Women’s US Championship: Chelsea Green (c) vs. Sol Ruca
  • NXT Underground Match: Trick Williams vs. Eddy Thorpe
  • The D’Angelo Family (Stacks, Luca Crusifino & Adriana Rizzo) vs. The Culling (Brooks Jensen, Niko Vance & Izzi Dame)
  • Ricky Saints vs. Ridge Holland

Tyler Bate Set To Return From Injury, Reportedly Will Be On WWE Raw

After months on the sidelines due to injury, Tyler Bate is reportedly gearing up for his WWE comeback. The former NXT UK Champion has been out of action since last summer, when he and longtime ally Pete Dunne (aka Butch) secured a tag team victory over Hank Walker and Tank Ledger on On WWE NXT.

Back in July, Michael Cole confirmed on Monday Night RAW that Bate had suffered an injury, and shortly after, the English star took to social media to reveal the details—he had torn his left pectoral muscle and tendon, requiring surgery and extensive rehab.

Recent reports indicate that Bate has been cleared for an in-ring return, and according to PWInsider, the plan is for him to join the RAW brand once he’s back. While there’s no official word on when exactly he’ll step back into the ring, it could happen at any moment.

With Bate’s history of standout performances in both NXT UK and NXT, his return to WWE programming adds another exciting layer to RAW’s roster. However, it remains to be seen what creative direction the company will take with him. Will he reunite with Dunne, or could we see a fresh singles push?

WWE Raw Preview: Early Start Time 3/17/2025

WWE Raw airs live globally on Netflix today with an early start time at 3:00 pm ET from the Forest National in Brussels, Belgium.

  • WWE Intercontinental Championship: Bron Breakker (c) vs. Finn Balor
  • IYO SKY and Bianca Belair contract signing for the Women’s World Championship at WrestleMania 41
  • John Cena and WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes under one roof
  • No Holds Barred Match: Penta vs. Ludwig Kaiser
  • Jey Uso vs. Austin Theory
  • Dakota Kai vs. Ivy Nile
  • Seth Rollins to speak

Mickie James Being Replaced For Season 2 Of WWE LFG, Mickie Set For In-ring Action At WrestleCon Supershow During WrestleMania Weekend

Mickie James will not be returning for the second season of WWE LFG, as she has been replaced on the show’s judging panel by Michelle McCool. Reports indicate that The Undertaker, a host of the series and McCool’s husband, was behind the push to have his wife join the program. However, sources clarify that The Undertaker did not request James be removed—only that McCool be added.

Despite this change, fans haven’t seen the last of Mickie James in WWE-related appearances. According to Fightful Select, James still has upcoming promotional commitments with WWE, meaning she’ll continue to be involved with the company in some capacity.

James originally appeared on WWE LFG alongside The Undertaker, Booker T, and Bubba Ray Dudley, as they mentored aspiring wrestlers hoping to land a WWE contract. While her absence will be felt, McCool—a former multi-time WWE Women’s Champion—brings her own veteran experience to the role.

Mickie James vs. Maki Itoh Set for WrestleCon Supershow

Though she’s off WWE LFG, Mickie James is staying busy inside the ring. She’s set to face Maki Itoh at WrestleCon’s Mark Hitchcock Memorial Supershow during WrestleMania weekend. The match was officially announced on Sunday, adding another exciting bout to the highly anticipated event.

The updated card for the April 17th show now features:
🔹 Minoru Suzuki vs. Butterbean (Special Guest Enforcer: Dan Severn)
🔹 Mickie James vs. Maki Itoh

With James remaining active in both WWE-affiliated promotions and independent events, it’s clear she’s not slowing down anytime soon. Fans eager to see her in action won’t have to wait long, as her WrestleCon showdown with Itoh promises to be a must-see match.

WWE Drops Mysterious Teasers—Are Rey Fenix & Aleister (Malakai) Black on Their Way?

Over the past few months, speculation has been running wild about former AEW stars making the jump to WWE. But few names have generated as much buzz as Malakai Black and Rey Fenix. Now, WWE has seemingly added fuel to the fire with two cryptic video packages that aired during SmackDown this past Friday—both of which have fans convinced that these two stars are on their way.

A Flash of Lightning—Is Rey Fenix WWE-Bound?

The first teaser was brief but packed with intrigue. The video opened with a crack of orange lightning before revealing a shadowy figure perched atop a turnbuckle. With eerie ambient noise buzzing in the background, the screen flashed again, and just like that—it was over.

Despite lasting only six seconds, the imagery was enough to send social media into a frenzy, with many speculating that the vignette was hinting at the arrival of Rey Fenix. The former AEW star, best known for his jaw-dropping high-flying abilities alongside his brother Penta as part of the Lucha Brothers, reportedly finished his AEW contract in early March.

The big question now is: If this is indeed a teaser for Fenix, will he be joining Penta on Raw, or will he be making his mark as a solo star on SmackDown?

A Cryptic Number—Is Aleister Black Making His WWE Return?

While Fenix’s vignette was mysterious, the second teaser was even more cryptic. It began with swirling grey smoke over a black background before a pulsating white “4” appeared at the center of the screen. The sixteen-second clip then abruptly cut to black.

This immediately led to speculation that Malakai Black—formerly known as Aleister Black in WWE—could be making his long-awaited return. The number “4” could signify several things, including his ties to the occult-inspired “House of Black” faction in AEW or his previous WWE character’s fascination with symbolism and darkness.

Black, who was released by WWE in 2021, had a memorable run in NXT and a solid, albeit short-lived, main roster stint before his departure. His last WWE match was a brutal no-disqualification loss to Kevin Owens on Raw in 2020. Now, with rumors swirling that he parted ways with AEW in January, fans are wondering if he’s set to rejoin WWE—potentially alongside his wife, Zelina Vega, who currently wrestles for the company.

What’s Next?

With WrestleMania season behind us and WWE entering a new creative phase, it wouldn’t be surprising to see major signings debut in the coming weeks. If these vignettes are truly hinting at Fenix and Black’s arrivals, WWE could be setting up two major shake-ups for the SmackDown brand.

Until then, fans will be keeping a close eye on the next set of teasers—because if WWE has taught us anything, it’s that the best surprises are always just around the corner.

Lilian Garcia Steps Away from Full-Time WWE Ring Announcing, SmackDown in Barcelona was Her Last Full-Time Show

For decades, Lilian Garcia’s voice has been synonymous with some of WWE’s most legendary moments. From championship introductions to emotional farewells, her signature delivery has been immortalized in WWE history, video games, and collectibles. However, a new era is beginning, as Garcia has officially announced that her most recent appearance on WWE SmackDown was her final show as the blue brand’s full-time ring announcer.

Garcia broke the news to fans via Instagram, thanking the Spanish crowd at Friday’s event before confirming that she would no longer be a full-time announcer for WWE moving forward.

“There’s just a new era upon us. Things are being shifted around,” Garcia explained, hinting at broader changes within the company.

Not a Farewell, But a Transition

While stepping away from weekly announcing duties, Garcia made it clear that she’s not cutting ties with WWE. She confirmed that she will still be involved with the company in select capacities, including performing at special events. Her first scheduled appearance post-SmackDown departure will be at the upcoming Saturday Night’s Main Event on July 12, where she will be lending her vocal talents.

Additionally, Garcia teased new projects in collaboration with WWE, though she remained tight-lipped on specifics.

“I am working with WWE on some new projects,” she revealed. “So, I invite you to follow me and just keep along this journey. It’s a brand new chapter, and we’ll see what happens.”

What’s Next for Garcia—and WWE’s Announcing Team?

Although she’s stepping back from her weekly role, Garcia assured fans that WWE will always be home to her. Before officially ending her full-time duties, she will be part of the promotion’s European tour, specifically the upcoming German leg.

As of now, WWE has not announced a permanent replacement for Garcia on SmackDown, but she left the door open for occasional returns.

“You never know if I pop up on Raw or SmackDown whenever I’m needed,” she said, suggesting that she may still lend her iconic voice to WWE when the moment calls for it.

Garcia’s departure from weekly programming marks the end of an era, but her continued presence ensures that her legacy will live on in WWE. Whether through special appearances or new projects, fans haven’t heard the last of Lilian Garcia just yet.

WWE SmackDown Preview 3/14/2025

WWE SmackDown takes place today at the Olimpic Arena, Barcelona, Spain.

International Netflix subscribers can watch tonight’s episode live, beginning at 3:00 pm ET. The show will air on a tape delay in the United States on the USA Network, starting at 8:00 pm ET.

  • WWE World Tag Team Championship Match: #DIY (c) vs. The Street Profits
  • Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes appears on Miz TV
  • Randy Orton vs. Carmelo Hayes
  • Charlotte Flair vs B-Fab

Hulk Hogan’s “Real American Beer” Tour Frustrates Fans with No-Shows and Broken Promises

Hulk Hogan may be promoting his new “Real American Beer” brand, but many fans are walking away from his New York tour feeling anything but patriotic. The WWE Hall of Famer’s recent appearances have been marred by early exits, unfulfilled promises, and upset fans—some of them children.

Disappointed Fans Left Hanging

As previously reported here by Wrestling News Blog, a signing event in the Hudson Valley, fans—many of whom waited for hours—expected Hogan to sign autographs for the first 250 people with wristbands, as advertised. Instead, he left before fulfilling the promise, leading to a scene where several children were reportedly in tears.

In Carmel, NY, fans were under the impression they could have any item signed at a free meet-and-greet. However, when they arrived, they were told that Hogan would only sign cases of his beer, which they had to purchase. Memorabilia like baseball cards? Off-limits.

Most recently, at an event in Newburgh, NY, Hogan arrived over an hour late, cut a short promo, handed out some beer cans, and left without signing anything at all.

Jimmy Hart Steps Up Where Hogan Falls Short

While Hogan’s appearances have been frustrating for fans, his longtime friend and manager Jimmy Hart has been picking up the slack. Unlike Hogan, Hart has been signing autographs without issue, making sure at least some attendees walked away happy.

Hogan’s Reputation Takes Another Hit

Hogan has had his fair share of controversies over the years, and his Real American Beer promotional tour seems to be adding more fuel to the fire. Whether this is due to poor planning, a shift in how he handles public appearances, or something else, the backlash is growing.

With more stops still to come, the question remains: Will Hulk Hogan make it up to fans, or will this tour continue to leave a bad taste—literally and figuratively?