More WWE Stars Switched Brands As Part Of The Transfer Window Storyline

The ever-changing landscape of WWE saw another shake-up during Friday night’s episode of SmackDown, with some stars switching brands as part of the ongoing transfer window storyline.

One of the most notable moves is Damian Priest, who now officially calls SmackDown home. Priest, who’s been riding high as a member of The Judgment Day and had a standout year following his Money in the Bank win, brings a unique intensity to the blue brand. Joining him on SmackDown is The Miz, WWE’s self-proclaimed “Most Must-See Superstar,” adding a veteran presence and endless entertainment to Friday nights.

Meanwhile, the dynamic duo of Grayson Waller and Austin Theory—collectively known as A-Town Down Under—have made their way to Raw.

These moves are part of WWE’s transfer window, which allows roster shuffles to keep the product fresh and intriguing for fans. With Priest and The Miz poised to make waves on SmackDown, and A-Town Down Under bringing their energy to Raw, fans can expect new rivalries and storylines to emerge in the coming weeks.

Who will these superstars clash with next, and how will their moves reshape the WWE landscape?

WWE SmackDown Preview 1/24/2025

WWE SmackDown airs live tonight from the Moody Center on the Campus of the University of Texas at Austin in Austin, Texas, beginning at 8:00 pm ET on the USA Network in the United States and on Netflix internationally.

  • LA Knight vs. Tama Tonga
  • Motor City Machine Guns vs. Pretty Deadly

Malakai Black Reportedly Done With AEW, Can’t Appear At WWE Royal Rumble

After months of speculation surrounding his status, Malakai Black—known to WWE fans as Aleister Black and to independent wrestling followers as Tommy End—has reportedly wrapped up his time with AEW. According to a report from PWInsider, sources within AEW confirmed that Black has finished up with the promotion, with no plans for a farewell appearance.

This development comes after weeks of storyline hints suggesting Black’s exit from the House of Black faction, the dominant group he helped form and lead. While AEW has yet to make an official announcement, the report strongly suggests Black’s tenure with the company has quietly come to an end.

No WWE Return Just Yet

Naturally, rumors are swirling about a potential return to WWE, where Black had a memorable run in NXT as a former NXT Champion and Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic winner. However, PWInsider noted that Black won’t be available in time to make a surprise appearance at next week’s Royal Rumble. Instead, he’s expected to become a free agent sometime in February or March, giving him plenty of time to decide his next move.

For those keeping tabs on Black’s personal life, his wife, Zelina Vega, is still an active member of WWE’s roster, adding another layer of intrigue to his potential return to the company.

Speculation About His AEW Exit

Black’s departure has been the subject of fan discussion for some time, fueled in part by his uncharacteristic post-match display of emotion after facing Adam Cole in AEW. The two, who share a history from their time together in WWE’s NXT, shared what appeared to be a heartfelt moment following their match—a rare departure from Black’s usually stoic and dark character. This fueled questions about his status in AEW, with rumors suggesting his creative dissatisfaction and a shorter-than-expected contract were factors in his exit.

Black originally joined AEW in mid-2021 after being released by WWE earlier that year. Though his AEW debut came with significant fanfare, his time in the company saw limited singles action. In total, Black wrestled just 15 singles matches during his tenure, losing only three, but his creative focus was largely on the House of Black faction.

What’s Next for Malakai Black?

While it’s unclear where Black will land next, fans are already speculating about his potential future in WWE. With Triple H now at the helm of WWE’s creative direction, a return to the company could provide Black the opportunity to pick up where he left off and possibly revisit the more prominent role he had in NXT.

If he does return to WWE, Black’s dark and striking persona would be a perfect fit for the current landscape of the company’s storytelling, where characters like Bray Wyatt and The Judgment Day are thriving.

Whether he chooses WWE, the independent circuit, or another promotion entirely, one thing is certain: Malakai Black’s blend of in-ring skill and theatrical presence makes him one of wrestling’s most compelling talents. Fans will be eagerly awaiting his next move.

Nikki Bella Reportedly in Talks for WWE Return

Nikki Bella’s surprise appearance at the Netflix WWE Raw premiere earlier this month has fans buzzing about the possibility of a return to the squared circle. While the two-time Divas Champion hasn’t wrestled in singles action since 2018, her presence at the event ignited speculation about a comeback—and now, new reports suggest that her return could be closer than expected.

According to WrestleVotes, there have been “significant discussions” about Nikki Bella stepping back into the ring. The report notes that multiple WWE sources believe her return is “sooner rather than later,” adding fuel to the rumors that Bella could play a role in the upcoming Royal Rumble on February 1.

A Look Back at Bella’s In-Ring Hiatus

Bella last competed in a WWE ring at the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble, where she made a one-off appearance alongside her sister, Brie Bella. However, her most recent singles match was back in 2018, when she faced Ronda Rousey in the main event of WWE’s Evolution pay-per-view for the Raw Women’s Championship.

Since then, Nikki has largely stepped away from in-ring action, citing health concerns and frustrations with WWE. In 2023, she and Brie publicly aired grievances with the company, noting they no longer saw “eye-to-eye” with WWE leadership. However, time appears to have smoothed over those issues, as Nikki seems poised to re-enter the fold.

Could Royal Rumble Be Nikki’s Big Comeback?

The timing of these discussions has led to speculation that Bella could make her return at the 2024 Royal Rumble. WWE fans are well aware of the Rumble’s reputation as the perfect stage for surprise returns, and Nikki’s involvement would be a headline-grabbing moment for the event.

While it’s unclear whether Bella’s return would be a one-off or a longer-term run, her return could add a significant boost to WWE’s women’s division, which continues to thrive with top-tier talent.

A New Chapter for Nikki Bella

Outside of wrestling, 2023 was a challenging year for Nikki. She filed for divorce from her now ex-husband, Artem Chigvintsev, after a turbulent period that included his arrest on felony domestic violence charges. Now, it seems Nikki may be ready to turn the page on her personal struggles and re-focus on her career.

For fans, Nikki Bella’s potential return isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a chance to see one of the most popular stars of WWE’s Divas Era write a new chapter in her storied career. Whether she’s making a single appearance or gearing up for a longer run, the WWE Universe is ready to see Fearless Nikki back in action.

Steph De Lander Returns To TNA With Mance Warner, Reveals She’s The New Digital Media Champion

Steph De Lander made her impactful return to TNA on Thursday night, shaking things up with a bold statement—and a brand-new championship reign. De Lander revealed herself as the mastermind behind the cryptic “23” vignettes that aired during recent PCO and Sami Callihan matches and announced that she is now the Digital Media Champion.

Her return wasn’t a solo act, either. De Lander arrived alongside Mance Warner, who immediately made his presence felt by attacking Sami Callihan during the segment. The return also put an end to speculation surrounding the mysterious vignettes, with De Lander confirming they were all part of her plan.

The Digital Media Title Drama Continues

De Lander’s claim to the Digital Media Championship stems from her ties to PCO, the title’s previous holder. She revealed that the championship became hers as part of her “divorce” from PCO. This development comes after weeks of controversy surrounding the title, including PCO’s headline-making moment at The People vs. GCW, where he destroyed the championship with a sledgehammer in what was reportedly an unsanctioned move that caught TNA officials off guard.

PCO’s chaotic antics seem to have officially ended his time with the promotion. His profile has been removed from TNA’s website, confirming his departure.

De Lander’s Comeback Story

Steph De Lander’s return to TNA marks her first appearance since Victory Road in September, where she announced that she needed to step away for neck surgery. After months of recovery, De Lander is back and making waves, proving she hasn’t lost a step in her time away.

Bringing in Mance Warner as her new ally signals a fresh direction for De Lander, whose new title reign adds even more intrigue to the Digital Media Championship’s already wild history. The dynamic between Warner and De Lander promises to be a storyline worth watching as they aim to dominate TNA together.

What’s Next?

De Lander’s return and Callihan’s attack by Mance Warner set the stage for some heated confrontations in the weeks to come. Meanwhile, with PCO officially out of TNA, the Digital Media Championship is poised to have a new chapter under De Lander’s reign.

The only certainty? With Steph De Lander back and Mance Warner at her side, chaos is bound to follow.

Sting Announces 2025 as His Final Year in Full Gear Appearances

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.

In a heartfelt post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Sting addressed his decision, writing:

“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.”

https://twitter.com/Sting/status/1882529037870150122

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.

TNA Impact Preview 1/23/2025

TNA Wrestling will present a special live episode of Impact tonight on AXS TV from the Boeing Center at Tech Port in San Antonio, TX, which features a WWE NXT tag team title match. The lineup includes:

  • WWE NXT Tag Team Championship: Fraxiom (c) vs. The Rascalz
  • The Hardys vs. Moose & JDC
  • Masha Slamovich & Spitfire vs. Rosemary, Heather & Ash by Elegance
  • We’ll hear from Josh Alexander (who is contractually obligated to appear)
  • We’ll hear from new TNA World Champion Joe Hendry
  • Tessa Blanchard to speak

ROH TV Preview 1/23/2025

Ring of Honor will present a new episode of ROH TV on HonorClub tonight, which is the show’s 100th episode overall. The lineup includes:

  • ROH World Television Championship : Komander (c) vs. QT Marshall
  • Katsuyori Shibata vs. Shane Taylor
  • Lady Frost vs. Taya Valkyrie
  • The Outrunners vs. TBA
  • The Beast Mortos vs. TBA
  • Leila Grey vs. TBA
  • Gates of Agony vs. TBA

Report: Alexa Bliss’ WWE Return Plans Put on Hold Indefinitely

Alexa Bliss’ long-awaited return to WWE has hit an unexpected snag, as recent creative plans for the former Women’s Champion have reportedly been put on hold indefinitely, according to PWInsider.

Original Plans for Bliss’ Return

WWE had been actively preparing for Bliss’ return to television, including developing new merchandise and promotional materials. The company reportedly intended for her to be involved in a storyline with The Wyatt Sicks and had penciled her in for an appearance on a recent episode of RAW.

However, the situation changed when The Wyatt Sicks was moved to SmackDown. As a result, Bliss’ planned role alongside the faction was reportedly scrapped.

Not a Health Issue, but Potential Contract Concerns

While some speculated that health issues may have been a factor in the delay, PWInsider reports that this is not the case. Instead, one source within WWE suggested that the delay could stem from a “contract issue,” though this claim has not been officially confirmed. WWE officials are reportedly tight-lipped about the reasons for the change, leaving fans and insiders alike wondering what might come next for Bliss.

Alexa Bliss’ Recent Hiatus and Challenges

Bliss last appeared in WWE at the 2023 Royal Rumble. She then took time off due to her pregnancy and welcomed her first child, a baby girl, in November 2023. In addition to her pregnancy, Bliss faced significant health challenges over the past year, including skin cancer, preeclampsia, and various postpartum complications. However, she assured fans in late 2024 that her health had fully recovered.

Despite the setbacks, Bliss began teasing her return earlier this month on social media, fueling speculation about her next move.

What’s Next for Alexa Bliss?

With Bliss’ return plans now shelved, her immediate future in WWE is uncertain. Her current contract status and length remain undisclosed, adding further mystery to her situation. Whether or not the rumored “contract issue” proves to be the root cause of the delay, one thing is clear: Alexa Bliss remains one of WWE’s most intriguing and dynamic talents, and her eventual return will undoubtedly be a major moment for fans.

Tom Pestock (Baron Corbin In WWE), Files Trademark, Possibly For New Ring Name

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.