AEW’s Kenny Omega Challenges NJPW Star To Match At Wrestle Dynasty

After spending all of 2024 sidelined due to a battle with diverticulitis, AEW’s Kenny Omega is officially ready to make his long-anticipated return to the ring. The former AEW World Champion wasted no time stirring the pot, issuing a challenge that could define NJPW’s Wrestle Dynasty on January 5, 2025. Omega is prepared to face NJPW STRONG Openweight Champion Gabe Kidd, with tensions between the two already boiling over after their heated exchange at NJPW’s Power Struggle event earlier this month.

The Challenge That Shook NJPW

In an interview with NJPW1972.com, Omega opened up about the incident with Kidd and expressed his desire to resolve their issues in the ring. Omega emphasized his respect for the business and the relationship between AEW and NJPW while laying the groundwork for a monumental clash.

“I’d like to address recent circumstances, and things that have happened with Gabe Kidd,” Omega stated. “I’ve had time to reflect after Power Struggle, and I feel I would regret not being able to make things right. I would hate for this situation to cause a rift between AEW and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. So after conversations I’ve had with President Tanahashi and other executives in NJPW, I’ve decided that if New Japan requests it, if Gabe requests it, and if the fans want it, then I will wrestle Gabe Kidd, as a professional, at Wrestle Dynasty January 5.”

This public challenge now puts the ball squarely in Kidd’s court. Known for his brash attitude, Kidd has already been vocal about his disdain for Omega, criticizing the former AEW star for his supposed arrogance during his NJPW appearances. With Wrestle Dynasty just weeks away, all eyes are on Kidd to see if he will accept what could be the biggest match of his career.

Plans Shift for Wrestle Dynasty

Omega’s challenge has not only captivated fans but also shaken up the plans for January 5. Omega was initially rumored to team up with NJPW legend Hiroshi Tanahashi to face The Young Bucks in a high-profile tag match. With Omega now setting his sights on Kidd, it appears those plans have been shelved—or perhaps transformed into a different storyline altogether. The Young Bucks, former AEW World Tag Team Champions, have already confirmed their participation in Wrestle Dynasty, though their opponents remain a mystery.

A New Year, A New Chapter for Omega

Omega’s return marks a significant moment not only for NJPW fans but for professional wrestling as a whole. Having been absent for an entire year due to illness, his comeback is expected to reignite his storied career while potentially solidifying his legacy in NJPW. A clash with Gabe Kidd offers an opportunity for both men to showcase their skills on one of wrestling’s biggest stages.

As the road to Wrestle Dynasty heats up, Omega’s challenge has set the stage for what could be one of the Tokyo Dome’s most talked-about matches. Will Gabe Kidd step up and seize the opportunity, or will Omega’s return take a different twist? Wrestling fans will have their answer soon enough.

AEW Dynamite Preview 11/20/2024

Tonight’s AEW Dynamite, which is the go-home show for Saturday’s Full Gear will air live on TBS and take place from the Santander Arena in Reading, Pennsylvania.

  • All Star 8-Man Tag Team Match: Will Ospreay, Ricochet, Powerhouse Hobbs & Mark Davis vs. Don Callis Family (Konosuke Takeshita, Kyle Fletcher, Lance Archer & Brian Cage)
  • CMLL stars Hechicero, Atlantis Jr., and Mascara Dorada will be in action
  • Contract signing with Chris Jericho and Tomohiro Ishii ROH World Championship Match at Full Gear
  • Big Boom! AJ of the Costco Guys to appear
  • Orange Cassidy vs. Wheeler Yuta
  • Darby Allin vs. Claudio Castagnoli
  • Kris Statlander vs. Hikaru Shida

Backstage Report On Changes Made To Monday Night’s Pre-Taped WWE Raw

With most of WWE’s stars gearing themselves up for Survivor Series: WarGames on November 30, the company has been taping episodes of “WWE Raw” and “WWE SmackDown,” with the November 18 episode of “Raw” being the latest example. However, the show being taped meant that a number of things that happened live ended up being changed for the televised broadcast.

Matches Filmed Out of Sequence

According to Fightful Select, the November 18 episode wasn’t shown in the same order it was filmed. For example, viewers were greeted with the electrifying return of Rhea Ripley, who was revealed as the final member of the women’s WarGames team. However, this major moment was actually taped at the end of the show, not the beginning as it aired.

Meanwhile, the hard-hitting clash between Bronson Reed and Seth Rollins—which saw Reed secure a massive win, followed by an intense confrontation involving Solo Sikoa—aired as the main event. For those in attendance, though, it was the first match of the evening.

WWE also made post-production tweaks to enhance the televised experience, adding commentary lines and refining audio during certain segments to ensure the show delivered maximum impact.

Why WWE Tapes Multiple Episodes

The November 18 Raw taping is just the beginning of WWE’s holiday season adjustments. By the end of 2024, the company has plans to film three additional episodes of Raw and SmackDown back-to-back with live broadcasts.

  • November 22 SmackDown: The November 29 episode will be taped after the live show.
  • December 13 SmackDown: The December 20 episode will be taped on the same night.
  • December 16 Raw: WWE will record the December 23 episode following the live event.

The reasoning for these tapings? WWE wants to give its roster and crew some much-deserved downtime during the Christmas season. While the motive for taping the November 29 episode of SmackDown hasn’t been disclosed, the December tapings are aimed at ensuring talent and staff have an extended holiday break.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

WWE NXT Preview 11/19/2024

WWE NXT tonight on The CW.

  • WWE NXT Title #1 Contendership – Chase U Will Disband if Andre Chase Loses: Andre Chase vs. Ridge Holland
  • Ashantee ‘Thee’ Adonis & Karmen Petrovic vs. Dion Lennox & Brinley Reece
  • Tony D’Angelo vs. Brooks Jensen
  • Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifying Match: Nathan Frazier vs. Eddy Thorpe
  • Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifying Match: Zaria vs. Wren Sinclair
  • Iron Survivor Challenge Qualifying Match: Stephanie Vaquer vs. Jaida Parker
  • We will hear from Fatal Influence

Rey Mysterio Announces the Passing of His Father

In a post on his Instagram account, WWE Superstar and Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio announced the passing of his father, Roberto Gutierrez. Gutierrez sadly passed away on Sunday, November 17. Mysterio shared the following message:

“Father: thank you for giving me the life I have. You did more than set the example of how to love & maintain a strong marriage and father 4 boys, you were the example and passed every single time until your death with flying colors.
Excellent husband, loving father, beautiful grandfather, incredible son & brother, and amazing father in law.
You checked every list on the box and can honestly say my majority trates I picked up from you.
You fought until the very last minute and know that you biggest fear was leaving Moms behind, but I can assure you that she will not be alone and we will always look out for her.

You are with God now and smiling from the heavens while we continue with the real struggle of life until we see again.
You will never be forgotten and will always be loved, RIP Pops

Love You Always”

Gutierrez was the grandfather of WWE Superstar Dominik Mysterio

Mysterio’s parents were born in Mexico but later moved to the U.S., where the WWE star was born in San Diego, California. The family, though, moved back to Tijuana, Mexico, when Mysterio was 8, due to his father’s job in the city. Mysterio has previously revealed how he used to cross into the U.S. every day to attend school.

WWE Raw Preview 11/18/2024

Tonight’s WWE Raw airs on the USA Network, taped last Monday from the Van Andal Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan

  • WWE Intercontinental Championship Match: Bron Breakker (c) vs. Sheamus
  • Bronson Reed vs. Seth Rollins
  • LWO (Rey Mysterio and Zelina Vega) vs. American Made (Chad Gable and Ivy Nile)
  • The War Raiders (Erik and Ivar) vs. The Judgment Day (Dominik Mysterio and Carlito)
  • More build towards Original Bloodline vs. New Bloodline War Games match at Survivor Series
  • Top star expected to return

Danhausen’s AEW Future in Limbo Amid Long Hiatus

Danhausen, AEW’s “Very Nice, Very Evil” sensation, has been notably absent from television since Worlds End 2023, and a new report reveals that his status with the company remains uncertain. According to Fightful Select, Danhausen is not currently part of AEW’s creative plans, and discussions about his return have been minimal at best.

Communication Breakdown

Sources indicate that communication between AEW and Danhausen has been sporadic, limited primarily to securing approvals for his independent wrestling bookings. While this practice is standard for talent under AEW contracts, it highlights the lack of ongoing dialogue about his role within the company.

Plans for Danhausen’s return from injury were reportedly in the works last year but were later shelved. Frustrated by the situation, Danhausen directly approached Tony Khan to express his concerns. Earlier this year, there were attempts to integrate him back into AEW programming, with Bryan Danielson championing his return. Despite this support, no concrete plans materialized.

Creative Challenges and Personal Priorities

One potential sticking point was scheduling. AEW insiders reportedly believe Danhausen prioritized independent bookings over AEW’s Collision, which airs on Saturdays. However, Danhausen has maintained that his availability was dictated by family commitments, which fluctuated throughout the year.

Contract Status

Danhausen’s AEW contract is set to expire in the summer of 2025, leaving the door open for a potential return or departure from the company. For now, no active creative plans are in place, and it seems his focus remains on independent wrestling, where his eccentric persona continues to thrive.

What’s Next for Danhausen?

Fans of Danhausen, known for his unique mix of humor and supernatural antics, are left wondering what the future holds. Whether he finds a path back to AEW or explores opportunities elsewhere, his charismatic presence remains in high demand on the indie circuit.

Stay tuned to WrestlingNewsBlog.com for updates on Danhausen’s status and all the latest AEW news!

Josh Alexander Bids Farewell to the Independent Scene

Josh Alexander, one of the most respected wrestlers to emerge from the Canadian independent circuit, has announced his retirement from indie wrestling after 20 years. The 37-year-old TNA star shared the news on social media, reflecting on his journey, the grind of constant travel, and his desire to make way for the next generation of wrestlers.

Reflecting on Two Decades of the Grind

In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), Alexander expressed gratitude for the promotions, wrestlers, and fans who have been part of his journey. He acknowledged the toll that wrestling’s demanding schedule has taken on him, emphasizing how the relentless travel, especially on the indie scene, has shaped his career and, ultimately, his decision to step back.

“I’ve loved my time in the independents these past 20 years,” Alexander wrote. “I’ve done amazing things, worked with amazing people, and got to travel the world performing in front of amazing fans. That being said, I’m tired of the hustle. It’s time for the next crop to step up and fill whatever void I may leave behind in the Canadian scene.”

The “Walking Weapon” also shared gratitude for the experiences that led him to prominence, even crediting his time as a tire technician—a job he held to supplement his wrestling income—as part of the grind that ultimately gave him a livelihood. He ended his announcement on a positive note, using a classic wrestling sendoff: “It’s not goodbye. It’s just see you later.”

A Continued Legacy in TNA

Though Alexander is stepping away from independent wrestling, his career is far from over. He remains a cornerstone of TNA, where he has wrestled since 2018 and achieved Triple Crown Champion status. His accolades include two reigns as TNA World Champion, with his second reign setting a record at 335 days. In 2023, his efforts earned him a spot in the PWI 500’s top 10, ranking ninth overall.

Alexander is expected to continue as a pivotal figure in TNA’s resurgence, and fans can still look forward to seeing him in high-profile matches under the promotion’s banner.

Interest from WWE or AEW?

As of now, it’s unclear if WWE or AEW has their sights set on Alexander. He recently faced AEW’s Konosuke Takeshita for the International Championship in October, though the match took place at a Maple Leaf Wrestling event, not an AEW show. While his future outside of TNA remains speculative, Alexander’s impressive resume makes him a potential asset for any promotion.

The End of an Era

Josh Alexander’s departure from the independent scene marks the end of a remarkable chapter in his career. For 20 years, he has been a fixture in Canadian wrestling, inspiring countless performers with his work ethic, skill, and dedication. Now, as he focuses on the next phase of his journey, he leaves behind a legacy for the next wave of talent to build upon.

Alexander’s fans, both on the indies and in TNA, know that this isn’t truly goodbye—it’s simply a new beginning for the “Walking Weapon.” Stay tuned to WrestlingNewsBlog.com for updates on his career and the latest in professional wrestling!

Becky Lynch Provides An Update On Her WWE Future

Becky Lynch, one of WWE’s most beloved and iconic Superstars, is dropping strong hints about a return to the squared circle. With WWE’s historic move to Netflix for Raw on January 6, 2025, fans are eager to see if The Man will play a role in this monumental shift.

Lynch, currently on hiatus, hasn’t wrestled since May 27, 2024, when she faced Liv Morgan in a grueling cage match. That contest, marred by interference from Dominik Mysterio, ended with Lynch suffering a bitter defeat. Since then, she’s been absent from WWE programming, with her contract expiring shortly after the match. However, As documented by Sports Illustrated,, Lynch recently confirmed during an interview at the 2024 Vulture Festival that she isn’t retired and has unfinished business in WWE.

“The Man” Isn’t Finished

“If you think I’m going out with Dominik [Mysterio] slamming a cage door in my face, that’s definitely not gonna happen,” Lynch emphatically stated during her Vulture Festival appearance. This bold comment suggests she’s itching to return to action and settle scores with Mysterio and Morgan.

Her words come as a welcome update for fans, as speculation about her future has been swirling for months. Reports indicated that contract negotiations between Lynch and WWE broke down earlier this year, allegedly due to financial disagreements, with Lynch reportedly seeking a $2 million per year deal. Despite this, her recent comments hint at a willingness to step back into the ring and possibly reignite her feud with Morgan and the Mysterio-led Judgment Day faction.

Lynch’s Role in the Raw Netflix Premiere?

While Lynch hasn’t confirmed an exact return date, her potential comeback aligns perfectly with WWE’s plans to load the Raw premiere on Netflix with major names and storylines. The January 6, 2025, episode will feature John Cena kicking off his farewell tour, appearances by Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and Bianca Belair, and even a performance from Travis Scott. Lynch’s return would add yet another layer of star power to what’s shaping up to be an unmissable night for WWE fans.

A Return Fueled by Revenge

If Lynch does return before the Raw premiere, it’s likely she’ll pick up where she left off: seeking revenge against Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan. With Morgan holding the WWE Women’s World Championship, Lynch could set her sights on reclaiming the gold while dismantling the duo that cost her her last match.

The WWE Universe Awaits

Becky Lynch’s undeniable charisma and fighting spirit have made her one of WWE’s biggest stars, and her return would be a game-changer for the women’s division. Whether she re-signs in time for the Netflix premiere or shortly thereafter, one thing is clear: The Man isn’t done making history.

WWE Announces Venue For Raw Netflix Premiere, Advertises Returning Legend And Major Celebrity

The WWE Universe is gearing up for a major shakeup as “WWE Raw” prepares to make its highly-anticipated move to Netflix on January 6, 2025. This marks a new chapter for the flagship wrestling program, and WWE isn’t holding back in making the debut a spectacle.

The first-ever episode of Raw on Netflix will air live from the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. Adding to the excitement, rap superstar Travis Scott is set to appear, a moment that was teased in a big way when WWE’s Chief Content Officer Triple H made a surprise announcement alongside Scott at ComplexFest. The rapper, whose track “FIEN” was previously featured as the theme for WrestleMania 41, was even gifted a custom WWE Hardcore Championship to mark the occasion.

John Cena’s Farewell Tour Kicks Off

Adding even more star power to the debut is the return of John Cena, whose appearance is expected to kick off his much-talked-about farewell tour in 2025. WWE fans will get a chance to say goodbye to the 16-time World Champion as he embarks on what promises to be an emotional final run.

But Cena isn’t the only big name set to make waves on this historic episode. The promotional materials also showcase Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and Bianca Belair, who are currently part of the SmackDown roster. This comes amidst reports of a potential roster shakeup, with Netflix reportedly expressing interest in featuring marquee talent like CM Punk as well. While it’s unclear how the rosters for Raw and SmackDown will look in 2025, it’s safe to say fans should expect some crossover and surprises as WWE adjusts to its new streaming home.

Netflix’s Big Challenge

WWE’s move to Netflix comes at a time when the platform is doubling down on live programming. Just last Friday, Netflix hosted its largest livestream yet—a headline-grabbing fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul. However, the event encountered streaming issues due to overwhelming demand, sparking concerns about how Netflix’s infrastructure will handle the massive audience expected for Raw’s premiere. Despite this, Netflix has assured WWE that it’s taking measures to ensure a smooth broadcast.

What This Means for WWE Fans

The Netflix premiere of Raw isn’t just a new chapter for the show—it’s an opportunity to introduce the product to a broader, global streaming audience. With major stars, a potential reshuffling of rosters, and a high-profile celebrity tie-in with Travis Scott, WWE is making a bold statement about the future of its programming.

Make sure to mark January 6, 2025, on your calendar, as WWE promises to kick off this new era with a bang. Will this new platform elevate Raw to even greater heights? We’ll find out soon enough!