Could AJ Styles Make a Phenomenal Return at the Royal Rumble?

The Royal Rumble is shaping up to be even more unpredictable as reports suggest that former WWE Champion AJ Styles could potentially make his long-awaited return during the men’s Rumble match. According to PWInsider, WWE is “hoping” Styles will be cleared in time for the event, which takes place this weekend in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The Injury That Sidetracked Styles

Styles has been out of action since October, following a knee injury suffered during a comeback match against Carmelo Hayes on SmackDown. The injury occurred during a fireman’s carry move when Styles’ knee buckled after his foot didn’t properly plant, forcing an early stoppage to the match. While some initial reports speculated the injury might be storyline-related, Styles later confirmed it was legitimate, revealing he suffered a Lisfranc injury, which affects the ligaments and bones in the foot.

In January, Styles gave fans an update on his recovery, describing it as “challenging.” Despite the long road to rehabilitation, WWE appears optimistic that “The Phenomenal One” could make it back just in time for one of the biggest nights on the wrestling calendar.

A Rocky Year for Styles

This injury was the latest setback in what has been a tumultuous year for Styles. Before his match with Hayes, he returned from a three-month hiatus following a loss to Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes in an “I Quit” Match. That match ended when the referee called the bout after Styles was rendered unable to continue, marking a tough chapter in his career.

The Royal Rumble and the Road Ahead

If cleared, Styles’ entry into the Rumble would electrify an already stacked field and potentially set the stage for a major storyline heading into WrestleMania 41. Known for his incredible in-ring skills and versatility, Styles could reestablish himself as a top contender and potentially set his sights on unfinished business with Cody Rhodes or even the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

Fans have been eagerly awaiting Styles’ return, and his presence would inject a dose of “phenomenal” excitement into the Rumble. As WWE has shown before, the Royal Rumble is no stranger to shocking returns, and Styles emerging from the curtain would be a moment fans would talk about for weeks.

Final Word

As of now, nothing is officially confirmed, but the possibility of AJ Styles making his comeback this weekend is enough to have fans buzzing. Will “The Phenomenal One” make his return and shake things up on the Road to WrestleMania?

JD McDonagh Hospitalized Following Scary “WWE Raw” Incident; Provides Injury Update

The January 27 episode of WWE Raw delivered a hard-hitting WWE World Tag Team Championship match between The War Raiders and The Judgment Day. However, a tense moment during the match left fans and WWE personnel alike concerned for JD McDonagh’s safety.

During the contest, McDonagh attempted a springboard moonsault to the outside, but his landing went awry. His head and neck snapped against the edge of the announce table, leaving viewers stunned. Despite the frightening fall, McDonagh pushed through and completed the match after being checked by ringside medical staff. Backstage, reports suggest that the incident caused significant concern, with Triple H and Michael Hayes keeping a close eye on McDonagh’s condition.

Medical Update on JD McDonagh

Bryan Alvarez of the Wrestling Observer provided further insight into the aftermath. Once backstage, McDonagh reportedly collapsed and was immediately sent to the hospital. While initial fears centered around a possible concussion or neck injury, the main issue turned out to be his ribs. Alvarez noted that McDonagh sustained broken ribs and a punctured lung, injuries that will sideline him for several months.

McDonagh himself addressed his fans on social media, expressing gratitude for their support while confirming his injuries:

“First off, thanks to everyone for the messages and the concern. I’m good. I’ve got a couple of broken ribs and a punctured lung, so I’m going to be out for a couple months. All things considered, it could have been a lot worse, so I’m grateful for that. See ya in a bit.”

While McDonagh’s update is reassuring, the timing of his recovery means he will miss both the Royal Rumble and likely WrestleMania 41, a tough blow for The Judgment Day’s ambitious member.

The Match Goes On

Despite McDonagh’s injury, The War Raiders (Erik and Ivar) successfully retained their WWE World Tag Team Championships by pinning Dominik Mysterio. The match marked The War Raiders’ first title defense since dethroning McDonagh and Finn Bálor in December 2024.

With The Judgment Day seemingly out of the title picture for now, the question turns to who will challenge The War Raiders next. Teams such as American Made, Alpha Academy, and The New Day all appear poised for an opportunity to step up, but no official contenders have been named yet.

Heroic, but Dangerous

McDonagh’s grit and determination to finish the match, despite sustaining such severe injuries, speaks volumes about his toughness as a performer. However, it also highlights the risks these athletes take to entertain fans. WWE’s medical team will likely monitor McDonagh closely throughout his recovery, ensuring he returns to the ring only when fully healed.

As fans, we wish JD McDonagh a speedy recovery and hope to see him back stronger than ever. Until then, it’s anyone’s guess who will rise to challenge The War Raiders next. Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for updates on McDonagh’s recovery and all things WWE.

WWE NXT Preview 1/28/2025

WWE NXT live on The CW from Center Stage in Atlanta, GA.

  • WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship: Bianca Belair & Naomi (c) vs. Lash Legend & Jakara Jackson
  • Bayley & NXT Women’s champion Giulia vs. Roxanne Perez & Cora Jade
  • Trick Williams vs. Wes Lee
  • Cedric Alexander vs. Ethan Page
  • The Grayson Waller Effect (hosted by Grayson Waller & Austin Theory) with Special Guest NXT Champion Oba Femi

WWE Raw Preview 1/27/2025

Tonight’s WWE Raw airs live globally on Netflix beginning at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT from the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.

  • WWE World Tag Team Championship: The War Raiders (c) vs. The Judgment Day’s Dominik Mysterio and JD McDonagh
  • WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Naomi and Bianca Belair vs. Judgment Day’s Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez (Non-Title)
  • Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes to appear
  • Sami Zayn vs. Drew McIntyre
  • Logan Paul to appear

Report On Reason For AEW Star Riho’s Absence, Should Return Soon

AEW fans may soon see the return of one of the company’s most beloved stars, Riho. The first-ever AEW Women’s World Champion has been absent from television since July 2024, following an injury sustained during a match against Lady Frost on AEW Collision. However, recent reports suggest her return to the ring could be on the horizon.

According to Fightful Select, Riho was spotted in Orlando, Florida, during AEW’s Worlds End pay-per-view on December 28, where she was reportedly training in the ring before the show. While there’s no confirmation that she has been medically cleared to compete, the news has sparked hope among fans eagerly awaiting her comeback. The report also hinted that a return to AEW programming is likely at some point in 2025, though the exact timeline remains uncertain.

Riho’s Storied AEW Career

Riho made history in 2019 as the inaugural AEW Women’s World Champion, defeating Nyla Rose on the debut episode of AEW Dynamite. Her reign lasted 133 days before Rose reclaimed the title in a hard-fought rematch. Unfortunately, Riho’s AEW career was disrupted shortly after due to travel restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, preventing her from competing in the United States.

During her time away from AEW, Riho remained active in Japan, wrestling for notable promotions like STARDOM and DDT. She eventually returned to AEW in 2021 and has since split her time between the promotion and international bookings. Her 2024 hiatus was reportedly tied to the process of renewing her work visa, but her latest setback—a mid-match injury—has kept her out of action for several months.

What’s Next for Riho?

Riho’s return to training is a promising sign for AEW’s women’s division, which has felt the absence of the dynamic competitor. A trailblazer for the company, her mix of high-flying maneuvers and technical precision has made her a fan favorite, and her potential comeback in 2025 could inject fresh energy into the roster.

For now, fans will need to stay tuned for updates on Riho’s recovery and possible return. Whether she’s cleared for action sooner rather than later, it’s safe to say that the wrestling world is ready to welcome back the “Golden Idol” with open arms.

Colonel DeBeers Passes Away at 80: A Wrestling Villain Remembered

The professional wrestling world is mourning the loss of Edward Wiskoski, better known to fans as Colonel DeBeers. The Cauliflower Alley Club confirmed his passing at the age of 80, sharing that Wiskoski died on January 23 in Arizona, where he had lived in retirement. While no cause of death has been made public, the announcement marks the end of an era for fans who remember his infamous work in the ring.

The Cauliflower Alley Club released a heartfelt statement on social media, saying, “It is with profound sadness that the Cauliflower Alley Club announces the passing of Ed Wiskowski, better known to wrestling fans as Colonel DeBeers, at the age of 80. We extend our sincerest condolences to his family, friends and fans worldwide. Thank you for the memories. R.I.P. Sir.”

A Legacy in Wrestling

Breaking into the business in 1972, Wiskoski was trained by wrestling legends Harley Race and Lord Littlebrook. Known for his tough-as-nails brawling style and his ability to cut fiery promos, he carved out a memorable career across several promotions. While he made appearances in both WWE and WCW, it was his work in the AWA where he truly left his mark as Colonel DeBeers.

The Colonel DeBeers character stood out as a larger-than-life villain from Apartheid-era South Africa, a role designed to provoke outrage from fans. With his military-inspired look and controversial rhetoric, DeBeers became one of wrestling’s most despised heels during his heyday. His high-profile feud with Jimmy Snuka is remembered as a cornerstone of his career, cementing him as a heat magnet in the wrestling world.

Controversial Character, Complex Legacy

While Colonel DeBeers was effective at drawing heat, his gimmick—a white supremacist military figure—sparked significant criticism, even during the less politically sensitive era of the 1980s. Many fans and wrestlers alike questioned the decision to portray such a divisive character, and his legacy remains a point of debate. Hardcore wrestling enthusiasts often reflect on his work as a masterful performance, separating the performer from the character, though the gimmick itself has not aged well in modern times.

Remembering Edward Wiskoski

Edward Wiskoski stepped away from the wrestling business years ago, living a quiet life in Arizona. Little is known about his personal life, though it has been reported that he is survived by at least one daughter.

Despite the controversy surrounding the Colonel DeBeers character, Wiskoski’s career highlights his ability to inhabit a role so convincingly that fans couldn’t help but despise him—a hallmark of wrestling’s greatest villains. The wrestling world sends its condolences to his family, friends, and fans as they remember the man behind the mustache-twirling heel.

Rest in peace, Edward Wiskoski. Thank you for the memories.

AEW Collision Homecoming Preview 1/25/2025

AEW returns to Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida for tonight’s special Homecoming edition of AEW Collision on TNT and streaming on Max.

  • AEW International Championship: Konosuke Takeshita (c) vs. Katsuyori Shibata
  • Champion vs. Champion Match: AEW Continental Champion Kazuchika Okada vs. ROH world TV Champion Komander (Non-Title)
  • TBS Championship #1 Contenders Match: Deonna Purrazzo vs. Queen Aminata vs. Yuka Sakazaki vs. Serena Deeb
  • Daniel Garcia, Daddy Magic & cool Hand Ang vs. Undisputed Kingdom (Adam Cole, Kyle O’Reilly, & Roderick Strong)
  • Gates of Agony vs. Buddy Matthews & Brody King
  • Big Bill vs. Powerhouse Hobbs
  • Mariah May and Toni Storm face-to-face
  • Samoa Joe vs. Nick Wayne

WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event 1/25/2025

WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event from the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas, airing on NBC and Peacock starting at 8:00 pm ET.

Jesse “The Body” Ventura will be back to do some commentary

  • World Heavyweight Championship: Gunther (c) vs. Jey Uso
  • Women’s World Championship: Rhea Ripley (c) vs. Nia Jax
  • WWE Intercontinental Championship: Bron Breakker (c) vs. Sheamus
  • Braun Strowman vs. Jacob Fatu
  • WWE Undisputed Championship Contract Signing for The Royal Rumble PLE between Cody Rhodes (c) and Kevin Owens, moderated by WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels

WWE SmackDown Reportedly Returning to Two-Hour Format Later This Year

Big changes are on the horizon for WWE Friday Night SmackDown. Earlier this month, Triple H announced that the blue brand, currently airing on the USA Network, will be returning to its traditional two-hour format later in 2024.

According to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, this shift is expected to happen sometime between May and June, shortly after WrestleMania 41. WWE reportedly plans to keep SmackDown in its current three-hour format through the spring, as the company believes it has enough compelling content to sustain the additional hour until then.

The End of the Three-Hour Experiment

SmackDown’s move back to two hours will mark the conclusion of the show’s recent experiment with an extended runtime. While the three-hour format has allowed WWE to showcase more talent and stories, it has also been met with mixed reactions from fans, many of whom feel that the additional hour dilutes the show’s pacing and impact.

A return to two hours would bring SmackDown back to its roots and align it with what many fans consider its most successful format. Historically, the two-hour structure has been praised for delivering a tighter, more action-packed product, and this change is likely to be welcomed by a majority of WWE’s fanbase.

What This Means for WWE Programming

The timing of the change is significant. WrestleMania 41, which will take place in April, is traditionally a reset point for WWE’s storylines and programming. By scaling SmackDown back to two hours following the biggest event of the year, WWE can adjust its creative direction and focus on crafting concise, high-quality episodes for the remainder of 2024.

SmackDown’s Future on USA Network

This announcement comes as SmackDown continues its current run on the USA Network. The show’s move to the network in late 2024 was part of WWE’s massive deal with NBCUniversal, following the expiration of its previous agreement with FOX. Fans will be keeping a close eye on how this programming change impacts SmackDown’s presentation under its new home.

As WWE gears up for this transition, it’s clear that Triple H and the creative team are looking to optimize SmackDown’s format to keep fans engaged while delivering the best product possible.

For now, fans can look forward to an exciting few months leading into WrestleMania 41, with the blue brand wrapping up its three-hour run in style before heading back to its classic two-hour format later this year.

The Hardys Commit to TNA with One-Year Contract, Matt Hardy Reveals What Led Them to Sign the Deal

For months, wrestling legends Matt and Jeff Hardy were working in TNA Wrestling on nothing more than a handshake agreement, technically making them free agents despite their ongoing appearances. That all changed in late November when The Hardys announced they had finalized a formal, one-year deal with the company, solidifying their status as official TNA roster members and reigning TNA Tag Team Champions.

In a recent interview with TV Insider, Matt Hardy opened up about the journey that led them to sign on the dotted line and how this unexpected chapter in TNA unfolded.

“It all started with a call from Tommy Dreamer just a couple of days before the Rebellion show,” Matt revealed. “I jumped in the ring and left Moose laying. At that time, we were working on a handshake deal. My original plan was to work through June 15, building to a world title match with Moose. If nothing worked out beyond that, I’d have a great match with him and call it a day.”

However, plans shifted when Jeff Hardy’s AEW contract came to an end, creating an opportunity for the brothers to reunite under the TNA banner. With Jeff’s return, The Hardys were inserted into a thrilling tag team division featuring teams like ABC, The System, and First Class (AJ Francis & KC Navarro). Their program with First Class gave Jeff a confidence boost as he got back into the rhythm of competition.

The pinnacle of their run so far came at TNA Bound For Glory, where The Hardys outlasted ABC and The System in a hard-fought battle to claim the TNA Tag Team Championships.

“Jeff and I have really enjoyed our time in TNA,” Matt shared. “The way they were utilizing us felt really good. They were putting us in a position to succeed, which is something we haven’t had in a while. Jeff and I said, ‘If you want to do another deal, we’d be up to doing it.’ Then in November, we worked on a year-long deal from December to December.”

The Hardys return to TNA has reinvigorated their careers and added star power to the promotion’s tag team scene. With a full year ahead of them, fans can expect more classic moments, thrilling rivalries, and potentially a few surprises from the legendary duo.

How will The Hardys continue to leave their mark on TNA? Stay tuned as their journey unfolds!