NJPW Reveals Best of Super Juniors 31 Participants

The anticipation is building as New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) gears up for its highly anticipated tournament, the "Best of the Super Juniors 31."

Among the standout competitors in this year's tournament are some familiar faces as well as promising newcomers.

Leading the pack is SHO, making his seventh consecutive appearance and currently holding the prestigious IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship. With a career highlight of 6-3 in 2020, SHO brings a wealth of experience and skill to the ring.

Joining SHO is the dynamic Hiromu Takahashi, a nine-time participant and a four-time winner of the tournament. With an impressive track record that includes victories in 2018, 2020, 2021, and 2022, Takahashi is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with.

Rounding out the field are established stars such as Ryusuke Taguchi, El Desperado, and BUSHI, each with their own impressive resumes and championship accolades. Additionally, rising talents like Kevin Knight, Francesco Akira, and Drilla Moloney will be looking to make a name for themselves on the grand stage of NJPW.

Among the debut entries are Kosei Fujita, Blake Christian, Ninja Mack, and HAYATA, eager to prove themselves against the established veterans of the junior heavyweight division.

With such a diverse and talented roster, the "Best of the Super Juniors 31" promises to be an electrifying showcase of athleticism, skill, and passion for professional wrestling. As the participants prepare to step into the ring and vie for glory, fans can expect nothing short of epic battles and jaw-dropping moments that will leave a lasting impression on the world of NJPW. Stay tuned as the action unfolds and the journey to crown the next junior heavyweight champion begins.

FULL LIST

* SHO (7th entry, 7th consecutive. IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion at time of writing). Career PB:

6-3 (2020)

* Hiromu Takahashi (9th entry, 5th consecutive. 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022 winner)

* Ryusuke Taguchi (21st entry, 19th consecutive. 2012 winner)

* El Desperado (8th entry, 5th conseuctive) Career PB: runner-up (2020, 2022)

* Kevin Knight (2nd entry, 2nd consecutive) Career PB: 3-6 (2023)

* YOH (7th entry, 4th consecutive) Career PB: Runner-up (2021)

* BUSHI (12th entry, 9th consecutive) Career PB: 6-3 (2019)

* Titan (5th entry, 3rd consecutive) Career PB: Runner-up (2023)

* TJP (4th entry, 3rd consecutive) Career PB: 4-5 (2022, 2023)

* Francesco Akira (3rd entry, 3rd consecutive) Career PB: 4-5 (2022, 2023)

* DOUKI (6th entry, 6th consecutive) Career PB: 3-6 (2022, 2023)

* Robbie Eagles (6th entry, 6th consecutive) career PB: 5-4 (2019, 2022, 2023)

* Taiji Ishimori (8th entry, 7th consecutive) Career PB: runner-up (2018)

* Yoshinobu Kanemaru (7th entry, 4th consecutive) Career PB: 4-3 (2017)

* Clark Connors (3rd entry, 3rd consecutive) IWGP Junior Heravyweight Tag Champion at time of writing Career PB:4-5 (2022, 2023)

* Drilla Moloney (2nd entry, 2nd consecutive) IWGP Junior Heravyweight Tag Champion at time of writing Career PB:4-5 (2023)

* Kosei Fujita (debut entry)

* Blake Christian (debut entry)

* Ninja Mack (debut entry)

* HAYATA (debut entry)

CM Punk: Triple H is a Great Coach

During the Wrestlemania countdown pre-show, former WWE superstar CM Punk caused a stir among wrestling fans with his unexpected praise for Triple H, referring to him as a "great coach." The remark came as a surprise to many, given Punk's history of contentious relationships with some figures within WWE.

In his statement, Punk reflected on the changes he has observed in WWE since his departure a decade ago. He expressed admiration for Triple H's role as a coach, acknowledging the evolution of the wrestling landscape under his leadership. Punk's comments shed light on his perspective on the current state of WWE and his own experiences within the company.

"It's really interesting. This place, everyone asks me, 'how is it? Is it different than when you were here ten years ago?' Everything I see, it's shockingly different. Having a private conversation with Big E, if you mind giving insight. I often think now when I'm here backstage and I'm having fun, and I'm having a ball. I think to myself, 'Did I waste time? Should I have come back sooner? Should I not have left?' He looked right at me and said, 'No, brother, you had to leave.' He's a great coach and he's assembled one hell of a team."

The praise for Triple H underscores the positive changes that have taken place within WWE, as seen through the eyes of someone who has returned to the fold after a prolonged absence. Punk's candid remarks serve as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of professional wrestling and the enduring impact of its key players.

STARDOM MAINSTAY ARRIVES IN WWE NXT

Giulia, a mainstay in Japan's prestigious STARDOM promotion, has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world with her highly anticipated arrival in WWE NXT.

NXT sources have confirmed to Fightful that Giulia will be reporting to the WWE Performance Center and NXT upon completion of her remaining dates, with an immediate main roster debut ruled out at this time.

The news comes after weeks of speculation and rumors surrounding the talented performer, whose name has been linked to a potential move to the global wrestling juggernaut.

Giulia's journey to WWE NXT marks the latest chapter in an already illustrious career. Hailing from Italy, she first made waves in the wrestling scene as part of the acclaimed STARDOM promotion, where she quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the company's top stars. Known for her ferocious in-ring style and commanding presence, Giulia has captivated audiences around the world with her electrifying performances and undeniable charisma.

The announcement of Giulia's arrival in WWE NXT comes amidst swirling rumors surrounding the future of STARDOM and its president, Rossy Ogawa. Speculation has been rife regarding Ogawa's plans to launch a new wrestling promotion, with reports suggesting that he has been scouting talent from various promotions, including STARDOM. This has led to speculation about potential talent acquisitions and the future direction of the Japanese wrestling landscape.

Giulia's decision to join WWE NXT adds further intrigue to the evolving landscape of professional wrestling, as fans eagerly anticipate her debut on the global stage. With her impressive track record and reputation as one of the brightest stars in the industry, Giulia has the potential to make a significant impact in NXT and beyond.

For Giulia, the move to WWE NXT represents an exciting opportunity to showcase her skills on a larger platform and take her career to new heights. As she prepares to step into the spotlight on NXT, fans can expect nothing short of greatness from this rising star.

As the wrestling world continues to buzz with excitement over Giulia's arrival in WWE NXT, one thing is certain: her presence will undoubtedly shake up the landscape of professional wrestling and leave an indelible mark on the industry for years to come.

NXT Stand and Deliver Results 04-06-2024

NXT Stand and Deliver 04-06-2024

Philadelphia, PA

Pre Show

1. Joe Gacy vs Shawn Spears

   Ridge Holland returns after his false retirement to take out Joe Gacy. Gacy fights back and pulls it out.

   WINNER: Joe Gacy

---

• NXT TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS: WOLFDOGS VS AXIOM AND NATHAN FRAISER

Incredible opening tag match from all parties. Go out of your way to see it.

• WINNER: WOLFDOGS

---

Meta Four introduce us to Oba Femi before some heavy Paramount/Knuckles advertising

---

• NXT NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIP OBA FEMI VS DIJAK VS JOSH RIGGS

Incredible HOSS action from all three. Just the RIGHT amount of wreckless and scary.

• WINNER: OBA FEMI RETAINS

---

• Six Woman Tag Team Match: Thea Hail, Kelani Jordan and Fallon Henley vs Izzy Dame, Jacy Jayne and Kiana James.

These girls worked so much harder than I ever expected. Great work.

• WINNER: Thea Hail, Kelani Jordan and Fallon Henley

---

NXT announced a mid card championship for the women!!!!

---

GIULIA HAS ARRIVED IN NXT!!!!!!!!!

---

• NXT WOMENS CHAMPIONSHIP LYRA VALKYRIA VS ROXANNE PEREZ

Roxanne worked Lyra Valkyria's arm for the entire match. Hilarious moment where Tatum Paxley tries to help Lyra and fails then gets kicked out. That’s your spot. Lol

• WINNER AND NEW NXT WOMENS CHAMPION ROXANNE

---

• NXT CHAMPIONSHIP ILJA DRAGUNOV VS TONY D'ANGELO

They worked over Ilja's hand for most of the match. Tony D'Angelo really showed out here. Stacks tried several times to interfere. H-BOMB THROUGH THE FRECKING TABLE MY GOODNESS. Phenomenal match.

• WINNER AND STILL NXT CHAMPION ILJA DRAGUNOV

---

• CARMELO HAYES VS TRICK WILLIAMS

Top tier match full of heat and hatred. Tho it seemed to end right as it hit that 3rd gear.

• WINNER: TRICK WILLIAMS

The Rock Awarded a "People's Championship" belt by Lonnie Ali

The WWE Hall of Fame 2024 ceremony was not only a night of celebration but also a poignant moment of homage and legacy.

Among the highlights was the presentation of a special honor to Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson by Lonnie Ali, the widow of the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali.

During the ceremony, Lonnie Ali awarded The Rock a lovely People's Championship Belt, paying tribute to Muhammad Ali's iconic title as "The People's Champion."

The connection between Ali and The Rock dates back to 1998 when The Rock sought permission to adopt the nickname "The People's Champion." With Ali's blessing, The Rock embraced the moniker, and it became synonymous with his illustrious career in WWE.

In addition to receiving this prestigious honor, The Rock took on another role during the ceremony as he inducted his grandmother, Lia Maivia, into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2024. Maivia, a trailblazer in her own right, played a significant role in shaping The Rock's career and legacy in professional wrestling.

WWE Smackdown 04-05-2024 WrestleMania Go-Home Results

WWE Smackdown 04-05-2024

Philadelphia, PA

Show opens with Kevin Owens soaking in the cheers as he stared at the WrestleMania sign and the crowd chanted "KO!" Owens eventually welcomed everyone into "a special edition of The Kevin Owens Show."

Randy Orton was officially introduced and out, Orton walked. The two sat in separate chairs and Owens outlined their WrestleMania match and noted how both Orton and Owens hate Logan Paul. The crowd chanted "Logan sucks!" Owens asked Orton to rate how awful Paul is and Paul started to talk into a microphone - from the WrestleMania stage across the street at Lincoln Financial Field.

Paul said he's two steps ahead of Owens and Orton. Owens said the stadium is, in fact, right across the street. As a result, Owens and Orton threw their microphones down and left through the crowd to get to the Link. Austin Theory and Grayson Waller climbed out from under the ring and ran after Owens and Orton through the crowd. The show then went to a commercial break.

---

• ANDRE THE GIANT BATTLE ROYALE

A fairly normal battle Royale. Nothing to write home about.

• WINNER: BRONSON REED

---

Logan Paul sent Austin Theory and Grayson Waller to the site of Wrestlemania XL, the Lincoln Financial Field, to find and jump Randy Orton and Kevin Owens, but they were under the ring.

They take out Logan Paul to close the segment

---

Dragon Lee is found ambushed backstage

---

• ELECTRA LOPEZ vs ZELINA VEGA

Santos Escobar and his gang come out with Andrade on their side. This upsets Zelina Vega, his former manager and friend.

This match was ROUGH to watch.

• WINNER: ELECTRA LOPEZ

A brawl breaks out post match.

ANDRADE REUNITES WITH ZELINA VEGA!!

---

Belair and Naomi came to the ring first and Belair began by saying she has been fighting Damage CTRL longer than anyone.

Belair said then Naomi showed up and reminded Belair why she was fighting in the first place. Naomi noted how Belair was "getting dragged every week." Naomi then said they are going to WrestleMania, they pointed to the sign and everyone cheered.

Belair said Damage CTRL's problem is that they've been at the top for so long, they weren't expecting anyone else to come through. Cue Cargill's entrance.

Cargill began by thanking Belair and Naomi once she got in the ring. Cargill said Damage CTRL "stepped up and got stepped on" and now Cargill will get to show the WWE Universe what she is all about.

Cargill said they will show why there's "no damage control." Cargill told Damage CTRL they are now "in the eye of the storm." Cargill's music then hit and the three women pointed at the WrestleMania sign to end things.

---

Dragon Lee is unable to compete at WrestleMania, so Rey skips over Carlito and choses Andrade to team up instead.

Carlito is NOT happy. 👀

---

• New Catch Republic (Tyler Bate & Pete Dunne) vs Grayson Waller & Austin Theory

Decent match with both teams looking as well as they can under 8 minutes.

• WINNERS: NEW CATCH REPUBLIC

Post-Match Judgment Day ran out and attacked both teams. This included Rhea Ripley, who watched as each member performed their finisher on members of both teams. 

---

• LA KNIGHT/AJ STYLES PROMO

Video of last week's angle with AJ Styles aired. Knight stood in the ring and the crowd chanted his name.

Knight almost choked on his gum.

Knight gave the "Let me talk to ya" line and everyone erupted. Knight kept saying "Yeah!" and the crowd ate it up. Knight took off his sunglasses and said he thinks Styles is phenomenal - "at not showing up and running away." Knight stumbled and the crowd helped him along.

Knight told Styles to grab his crying towel because all Styles has been doing is crying about Knight. Knight said he makes Styles interesting and he's going to give Styles "three the hard way" as he boots him through the field goal posts. Knight closed with the "LA Knight, yeah!" catchphrase and that was it. No shenanigans.

---

Bobby Lashley's group cut a vignette promo. B-Fab said there will be nowhere for the Final Testament to hide. Lashley chimed in and said this weekend, they will finish the Final Testament. Jey Uso then made his entrance and the crowd was way, way, way into it.

---

• JEY USO VS SOLO SIKOA

Pretty nothing match. About 6 minutes long.

• WINNER: JEY USO

Smackdown closes with Jimmy Uso getting jumped by Jey, Cody and Seth before Cody tells the world he IS going to dethrone the Tribal Cheif.

ROH: Supercard of Honor Results 04-05-2024

Ian Riccaboni & Caprice Coleman welcomed the audience to the broadcast before transitioning to the first match of the Zero Hour.

• Zero Hour: Premier Athletes (Josh Woods, Ari Daivari & Tony Nese) (w/ Mark Sterling) def. Tony Deppen, Rhett Titus & Adam Priest via Pinfall (Double Frog Splash).

• Zero Hour: The Beast Mortos def. Blake Christian via Pinfall (Destination Hellhole).

  • The Beast Mortos is the new name for the man originally known as Black Taurus in AAA and TNA.

  • Komander & Alex Abrahantes appeared on the ramp after the match, where Komander saluted Mortos.

• Caprice Coleman had a sit-down interview with Kyle Fletcher ahead of his match against Lee Johnson for the ROH World Television Championship. Fletcher bragged that he was undefeated in ROH and promised to retain the title tonight.

• Zero Hour: Cole Karter & Griff Garrison (w/ Maria Kanellis-Bennett) def. Spanish Announce Project (Angelico & Serpentico) (Schoolboy Roll-Up).

  • The finish came when Garrison pulled Serpentico's mask, allowing Karter to get a roll-up for the win.

• Zero Hour: Mariah May def. Momo Kohgo via Pinfall (It's Gonna Be May Knee Strike).

---

---

Ian Riccaboni & Caprice Coleman welcomed the audience to the broadcast before transitioning into the opening contest.

• ROH Men's World Television Championship Match: Kyle Fletcher (c) vs. Lee Johnson.

ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE OPENER! STAR MAKING PERFORMANCES. GO OUT OF YOUR WAY TO SEE THIS.

• WINNER: KYLE FLETCHER RETAINS

---

• Mei Seira & EXV (Mina Shirakawa & Maika) vs. Saya Kamitani, Tam Nakano, & AZM.

Second excellent match in a row. Mina Shirakawa is SO OVER but all the girls did a great job here.

• WINNER: MEI SEIRA AND EXV

Post match, Mariah May comes out and reunites with her ex…. tag team partner Mina. She teases trouble before hughing Mina and reluctantly allowing Mina's new friends to celebrate with them.

---

• ROH World Tag Team Championship Match: The Undisputed Kingdom (Matt Taven & Mike Bennett) (c) vs. The Infantry (Shawn Dean & Carlie Bravo).

The Undisputed Kingdom retains in a pretty great match with a lame duck ending after Wardlow interference with one clothesline.

• WINNERS: Undisputed Kingdom

---

• ROH Women's World Television Championship Tournament - Finals: Billie Starkz vs. Queen Aminata.

These ladies absolutely SMASHED IT. Though the finish of the match saw Billie Starks fake a brutal injury to steal a win and become Women’s TV Champion.

• WINNER AND FIRST EVER WOMEN’S TV CHAMPION: BILLIE STARKZ

---

• IMPROMTU 6 MAN TAG TEAM TITLE MATCH: BULLET CLUB GOLD VS LANCE ARCHER, ALEX ZAYNE AND MINORU SUZUKI

The BCG is out for an open challenge but they will put their belts on the line. Archer comes out with his NJPW partner Alex Zayne and then SURPRISE KA ZE NI NARE!!! Suzuki is here!

• WINNERS: BCG

Post Match, the Acclaimed arrive to chase off BCG

---

• FIGHT WITHOUT HONOR: DALTON CASTLE VS JOHNNY TV

Dalton Castle arrives flanked by a whole new group of bootlegged boys.

This may have been the WORST Fight Without Honor I’ve ever seen. A pretty paint by numbers house show-esque No DQ match until it devolved into some outrageous shenanigans.

At one point Paul Walter Houser shows up and just sits there. Until he gets involved and hands Dalton a bag of tacks, but NOT before they rub each others faces.

So weird.

• WINNER:DALTON CASTLE

---

• ROH Women's World Championship Match: Athena (c) vs. Hikaru Shida

Shida and Athena easily bring this show back on track with an excellent even back and forth match.

• WINNER: ATHENA RETAINS FOR THE 50TH TIME

---

• ROH WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP EDDIE KINGSTON(c) vs Mark Briscoe

Mark Briscoe comes out to the classic Briscoe Bros theme song, Lynyrd Skynyrd's Gimmie Back My Bullets.

An emotional moment as he challenges for the ROH World Title, 11 Years to the DAY the late Jay Briscoe won the title for the first time from Kevin Steen.

📷 Friend of DSR, Mike

Pretty good match with the perfect ending that we all knew it needed.

• WINNER AND NEW ROH WORLD CHAMPION: MARK BRISCOE

Report: Former STARDOM Owner Backstage At Smackdown Flanked By Top Free Agent

The wrestling world is abuzz with anticipation and speculation as reports emerge of Rossy Ogawa, the renowned figure behind STARDOM's success, being spotted backstage at SmackDown.

Adding fuel to the fire is the presence of Giulia, a highly sought-after free agent and top talent in the wrestling industry. The revelation of Ogawa's presence alongside Giulia at SmackDown has sparked intense speculation about their potential collaboration, with rumors swirling that Ogawa may be planning to launch his own promotion with assistance from WWE.

As fans and industry insiders eagerly await further developments, the possibility of a partnership between Ogawa and WWE, combined with Giulia's involvement, has set the wrestling world abuzz with excitement and intrigue.

TRIPLE H CONFIRMS RETURN OF WWE DRAFT

Triple H, the legendary WWE figure, dropped a bombshell for wrestling fans during a recent appearance on IMPAULSIVE. The revelation came as Triple H confirmed that the highly anticipated WWE Draft is on the horizon, slated to occur in approximately 'a month or so.'

The announcement has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, igniting speculation and excitement about potential roster changes, surprise returns, and blockbuster trades. The WWE Draft is a pivotal event in the wrestling calendar, reshaping the landscape of both Raw and SmackDown and setting the stage for new rivalries, alliances, and storylines.

Triple H's confirmation of the upcoming draft adds an extra layer of anticipation to an already action-packed season of WWE programming. As fans eagerly await further details and announcements regarding the draft, the wrestling world is abuzz with speculation about which superstars will be on the move and how the draft will impact the future of WWE.

With the WWE Draft set to shake things up in just a matter of weeks, fans can expect twists, turns, and surprises as the landscape of WWE undergoes a dramatic transformation. As always, the WWE Universe will be glued to their screens, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the ever-evolving world of professional wrestling.

CMLL Makes Major Change to Bryan Danielson Dream Match

Professional wrestling fans were treated to a dream matchup when CMLL (Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre) officially announced a showdown between Bryan Danielson and Blue Panther, set to take place on a momentous night of wrestling action.

What makes this matchup particularly special is the stipulation CMLL has just attached to the bout: it will now be a one-fall submission only match, adding an extra layer of intensity and anticipation to the already highly anticipated encounter.

For Bryan Danielson, formerly known as Daniel Bryan during his tenure with WWE, the opportunity to face off against Blue Panther represents a culmination of a long-held dream. Throughout his illustrious career, Danielson has expressed admiration for Blue Panther, a Mexican wrestling legend known for his technical prowess and mastery of the submission style.

The prospect of stepping into the ring with Blue Panther is a testament to Danielson's respect for the traditions and history of professional wrestling. Blue Panther's influence on the sport cannot be overstated, and for Danielson, the opportunity to test his skills against such a revered figure is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The announcement of the one-fall submission only stipulation adds an intriguing twist to the matchup, as both competitors will be forced to rely on their grappling and submission skills to secure victory. With Danielson known for his technical proficiency and Blue Panther revered for his mastery of submission holds, fans can expect a clinic in mat wrestling when these two legends collide.

As the wrestling world eagerly anticipates tonight's showdown between Bryan Danielson and Blue Panther, the stage is set for a memorable and historic encounter. Whether it's Danielson's admiration for Blue Panther or the allure of the submission-only stipulation, there's no denying that this matchup has captured the imagination of wrestling fans worldwide.

In a sport defined by its rich history and larger-than-life personalities, moments like this serve as a reminder of the enduring magic of professional wrestling. As Danielson and Blue Panther prepare to write the next chapter in their respective legacies, fans can only sit back and marvel at the spectacle unfolding before them.

Pat McAfee Says Without Rhea Ripley, Dominik Mysterio Would Probably Be At That Other Place In Front Of 600 People

During a recent episode of The Pat McAfee Show on April 5, host Pat McAfee didn't hold back his thoughts on WWE superstar Dominik Mysterio and the influence of his mother, Rey Mysterio, on his career trajectory.

“If you were to [brush him aside], he'd be gone forever. We'd never have to see him again. He'd probably be at that other place in front of 600 people," said McAfee

In his candid remarks, McAfee implied that Dominik owes much of his current position in WWE to his father, Rey Mysterio, a wrestling legend with a storied career. McAfee's comments also subtly shaded AEW, suggesting that Dominik might find himself performing in front of smaller crowds if not for his association with WWE.

The discussion on The Pat McAfee Show highlights the ongoing rivalry and competition between WWE and AEW, two of the biggest wrestling promotions in the world. McAfee's comments not only reflect his personal opinions on Dominik's career prospects but also touch upon larger themes within the wrestling industry, including the role of family legacy and the dynamics between rival promotions.

As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, conversations like the one on The Pat McAfee Show offer insights into the complexities of talent development, promotion loyalty, and the ever-present competition between wrestling companies. While McAfee's remarks may stir debate among fans and industry insiders alike, they underscore the ongoing drama and intrigue surrounding the world of professional wrestling.

TNA Wrestling Signs Jonathan Gresham

TNA has signed Jonathan Gresham. They’ve released a press release regarding the signing:

TNA Wrestling has signed in-ring veteran Jonathan Gresham, the company confirmed today.

Gresham has been a singles and tag team champion, including a run as the ROH World Champion. Gresham has ranked among the Top 10 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the annual Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 and the among the top 10 wrestlers from Sports Illustrated.

An Atlanta native who has been wrestling professionally since 2005, Gresham had his first match at age 16 – against Heath. He is married to reigning TNA Knockouts World Champion Jordynne Grace and the two live with their six dogs.

Gresham and the stars of TNA Wrestling will be in action on Saturday & Sunday, April 20-21, at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. The Saturday night show is the annual spring showcase event: the Rebellion pay-per-view, airing live around the world. The Sunday night show will be filmed for the company’s flagship weekly TV show, iMPACT!, airing Thursday nights on AXS TV. The Las Vegas shows will feature TNA World Champion Moose, Knockouts World Champion Jordynne Grace, along with Nic Nemeth, Mustafa Ali, Ash By Elegance, and many others.

Tickets for both Las Vegas shows are on-sale now at https://www.ticketmaster.com/tna-wrestling-tickets/artist/1008830

The Rock Opens Up About WrestleMania Disappointment

In a recent interview on the Will Cain show, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson opened up about his feelings regarding the disappointment of fans when they believed he would be facing Roman Reigns at WrestleMania. The wrestling icon expressed that the fans' disappointment "hurt his heart," highlighting the deep connection he feels with the WWE Universe.

During the interview, The Rock acknowledged his influence within WWE and revealed that he could have continued with plans to face Reigns at WrestleMania. However, while in Hawaii, he realized the impact his decisions could have on fans, particularly those who were eagerly anticipating his return to the ring.

The Rock's candid comments shed light on the emotional toll of balancing personal aspirations with fan expectations in the world of professional wrestling. Despite his status as a Hollywood superstar, The Rock's roots in wrestling run deep, and he remains deeply connected to the WWE fanbase.

The Rock's decision to prioritize fan satisfaction over personal ambitions demonstrates his commitment to delivering memorable experiences for wrestling enthusiasts. By acknowledging the disappointment of fans and adjusting his plans accordingly, The Rock underscores the importance of fan engagement and appreciation within the wrestling community.

As WrestleMania approaches, The Rock's words serve as a reminder of the symbiotic relationship between wrestlers and their fans, emphasizing the profound impact of their support and enthusiasm. While plans may change and matches may be altered, the bond between wrestlers and fans remains unbreakable, ensuring that every moment in the ring is infused with passion, excitement, and shared experiences.

“I got a little bit of influence here in the WWE, we could have kept trucking through, or the thing that bugged me, I was in Hawaii and I realized, man, there's a segment of fans here who are just disappointed, and that, it hurt my heart to think that, well, I don't wanna truck through and leave these fans disappointed.

Back in January, I called Nick Khan, our friend. And I said, I have an idea. How about this? Why don't we take care of the people

Give them this story of Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns. And Nick said, great. And I said, however, it's a little bit of a twist. He said, what's that?

I said, what if I became the greatest bad guy of all time?

A lot of self reflection happens in Hawaii, a lot of the Mana.

And I woke up and I went, God, what if I became a bad guy? And then I was able to not be pretzeled and be freer and.

Be visceral and be open and talk and excuse my language, but say… I won't even curse 'cause I've been getting in trouble a lot. I want to, yeah I will… Say the shit that everyone wants to say but they cant say.

Let me do that…

By the way, The Final Boss, the spirit of The Final Boss, is Darth Vader. Yeah.

That's the spirit of The Final Boss.”

WRESTLEMANIA XL MATCH ORDER REVEALED

With WrestleMania weekend fast approaching, wrestling fans are gearing up for two nights of thrilling action, and excitement reached a fever pitch with the recent reveal of the full match order by The Wrestling Observer. From championship clashes to highly anticipated showdowns, the lineup promises to deliver an unforgettable spectacle for fans around the world.

On Night 1 of WrestleMania, fans can expect a blockbuster lineup featuring some of the biggest names in the industry.

The action kicks off with a high-stakes battle as Rhea Ripley defends her title against the formidable Becky Lynch.

The intensity continues with a Tag Title Ladder Match, followed by a family feud as Rey Mysterio teams up with Dragon Lee to take on Dominik Mysterio and Santos Escobar.

Sibling rivalry takes center stage as Jimmy Uso squares off against Jey Uso in a matchup that is sure to have fans on the edge of their seats.

The action-packed night also features a star-studded six-person tag team match, pitting Bianca Belair, Jade Cargill, and Naomi against the formidable trio of Damage CTRL.

The championship matches continue with GUNTHER defending his title against the resilient Sami Zayn, before the night culminates in a colossal showdown between two powerhouse teams.

The Rock teams up with Roman Reigns to take on the dynamic duo of Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins in a match that promises to be nothing short of epic.

As Night 1 comes to a close, anticipation is already building for the action-packed lineup set to unfold on Night 2 of WrestleMania.

The excitement continues with Seth Rollins defending his title against Drew McIntyre in what is sure to be a hard-hitting encounter.

Tag team action takes center stage as Bobby Lashley and the Street Profits face off against Karrion Kross and A.O.P in a clash of titans.

The night also features a highly anticipated singles match between LA Knight and AJ Styles, as well as a triple threat match for the championship title featuring Logan Paul, Randy Orton, and Kevin Owens.

The Women's Championship is on the line as Iyo Sky defends her title against the formidable Bayley, before the night culminates in a blockbuster main event.

Roman Reigns puts his title on the line once again, this time facing off against the resilient Cody Rhodes in a battle for supremacy.

With the full match order now revealed, anticipation is at an all-time high as wrestling fans eagerly await the action-packed spectacle that is WrestleMania weekend. As superstars prepare to step into the ring and make history, one thing is certain: WrestleMania is set to deliver two nights of unforgettable moments, jaw-dropping surprises, and epic showdowns that will leave fans on the edge of their seats.

WM NIGHT 1:

• Rhea Ripley (c) vs Becky Lynch

• Tag Title Ladder Match

• Rey Mysterio & Dragon Lee vs Dominik Mysterio & Santos Escobar

• Jimmy Uso vs Jey Uso

• Bianca Belair, Jade Cargill & Naomi vs Damage CTRL

• GUNTHER (c) vs Sami Zayn

• The Rock & Roman Reigns vs Cody Rhodes & Seth Rollins

WM NIGHT 2:

• Seth Rollins (c) vs Drew McIntyre

• Bobby Lashley & Street Profits vs Karrion Kross & A.O.P

• LA Knight vs AJ Styles

• Logan Paul (c) vs Randy Orton vs Kevin Owens

• Iyo Sky (c) vs Bayley

• Roman Reigns (c) vs Cody Rhodes

What are you looking forward to seeing the most at WrestleMania this year?

WRESTLEMANIA XL STAGE REVEALED!

WWE fans around the world are buzzing with excitement as WrestleMania XL approaches, and anticipation reached new heights with the recent unveiling of the event's set design. In a move sure to thrill wrestling enthusiasts, WWE took to YouTube to showcase the elaborate and visually stunning set that will serve as the backdrop for the highly anticipated extravaganza.

The reveal, which garnered significant attention across social media platforms, offered fans a glimpse into the grandeur and spectacle that WrestleMania XL promises to deliver. With WWE's signature blend of athleticism, entertainment, and production value, the stage is set for an unforgettable night of action and drama.

As images of the elaborate set circulated online, fans marveled at the intricate details and larger-than-life design elements. From towering structures to dazzling lighting effects, every aspect of the set reflects the magnitude and importance of WrestleMania XL as one of WWE's premier events.

The unveiling of the WrestleMania XL set not only amps up excitement for the upcoming showcase but also serves as a testament to WWE's commitment to providing fans with unforgettable experiences. As the countdown to the big event continues, anticipation continues to build, with fans eagerly awaiting the moment when their favorite superstars step onto the grand stage.

With WrestleMania XL set to captivate audiences worldwide, the unveiling of the event's set design has only added to the anticipation and excitement surrounding WWE's flagship event. As fans gear up for a night of unforgettable moments and epic showdowns, the stage is set for WrestleMania XL to go down in history as one of the most spectacular events in WWE history.

GCW Bloodsport X Results 04-04-2024

GCW held Josh Barnett's Bloodsport X event on April 4th, 2024 from Penns Landing Caterers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Triller TV

Full results and highlights ahead:

Josh Barnett's Bloodsport X Results (04/04/2024)

- Victor Benjamin def. AKIRA via referee stoppage

- Nic Nemeth def. “Speedball” Mike Bailey submission

- Women's Tournament Semifinal: Lindsay Snow def. Lady Frost via submission

- Women's Tournament Semifinal: Marina Shafir def. Janai Kai via submission

- Charlie Dempsey def. Matt Makowski via submission

- Timothy Thatcher def. Axel Tischer via submission

- Shayna Baszler (w/ Zoey Stark) def. Masha Slamovich (w/ Jordynne Grace) via referee stoppage

- Women's Tournament Final: Marina Shafir def. Lindsay Snow

- Josh Barnett def. Johnny Bloodsport via referee stoppage

Nick Khan, CM Punk, Nia Jax and Braun Strowman were all spotted at the event.

Karrion Kross and Scarlet were also in attendance.

ROH Supercard of Honor 2024 Media Call Highlights

AEW/ROH President Tony Khan held a media call earlier today to promote this Friday’s ROH Supercard of Honor pay-per-view event in Philadelphia for WrestleMania 40 weekend. Here are the highlights.

-Right off the bat Khan gets asked about CM Punk’s Ariel Helwani interview. He chose not to respond.

-Khan reveals that Anthony Henry from the Workhorsemen, who was one of the ten talents released by the company, will be returning to AEW once his recovers from his jaw injury.

-Khan says that Dalton Castle’s Boys did not show up to work on a few occasions, which is why they were released. He admits it was a tough call.

-Regarding free agents, Khan promises to continue to be aggressive and make plays for big names, something he believes will help AEW grow over time.

Khan said he values everyone on the roster and also spoke about how the situation is fluid. He said they have to be mindful of the budget, but he intends to continue to add talent. He also brought up Anthony Henry suffering an injury while working an independent show. Khan said he’s had some time to think about it and Henry will be returning to AEW/ROH once he’s cleared.

Khan said he thinks they’ve worked out something and he would like to have him back in the company. Khan said that in some ways, he was trying to make changes to the budget, which he actually intends to increase. Khan said he had to make some cuts, but he will be very aggressive when it comes to the big name free agents. Khan said he thinks everyone has something to offer and some of those wrestlers may return.

-A caller asked about ROH Women’s Champion Athena. Khan raved about working with Athena and spoke about some of their work together. He said he took over the company two years ago and Athena has been champion for most of that time. Khan spoke about Athena facing a former AEW Women’s World Champion in Hikaru Shida, who defeated Shida in the past. Khan spoke of the Athena character’s confidence being shaken. Khan also spoke favorably about the ROH Women’s TV Title tournament. He said Billie Starkz vs. Queen Aminata meeting in the tournament final is the perfect conclusion.

-Khan spoke about how the match count of the Supercard of Honor card is roughly the same as it has been for past ROH shows.

-On AEW’s relationship with STARDOM, Khan says that it has been easier since Rossy Ogawa is gone.

-Khan says that AEW has a big media rights renewal coming by the end of 2024

-Khan was asked if there’s been any movement for an ROH television or streaming deal. Khan said they have their own streaming channel. He said AEW has a big media rights renewal coming up. He said he owns the ROH rights, which are open for business. Khan said there are great opportunities to expand or change the platform going forward. He believes they hold a lot of cards heading into next year and it’s a very exciting time for the company.

-Khan was asked about ROH becoming a female driven brand. Khan said they have some of the best women in pro wrestling in ROH. He said that in addition to the presence of Stardom, they have great championship matches, including the crowning of the first ROH Women’s TV Champion.

-Khan was asked about the Eddie Kingston vs. Mark Briscoe match for the ROH Championship. Khan spoke of it occurring on the eleventh anniversary of the late Jay Briscoe winning the title and how Mark has yet to win it. Khan spoke about his own history with the Briscoes. He said he thinks about Jay’s death every day and said he has a few photos of Jay in his wallet. Khan said the Briscoe family are some of the best people he has ever met.

-Khan was asked when the exclusive window for Warner Bros. Discovery to negotiate the AEW media rights deal expires. Khan laughed and said it probably was not in his best interest to list the date, but he said it’s coming up soon.

-A caller thanked Khan for keeping ROH alive. He also said ROH outshined WrestleMania some years in terms of match quality and really set the table for what WrestleMania has become (in terms of satellite events). Khan spoke about his excitement for Supercard of Honor and said he feels they have set the bar high with the ROH shows they’ve held since he acquired the brand.

-Khan wrapped up the call and mentioned that he will be holding a media scrum after Friday’s ROH Supercard of Honor. The audio of the call will be released as a free podcast later today

Cody Rhodes: We're in the Renaissance Era

In a recent interview on Fox News Digital, Cody Rhodes, offered his perspective on the current state of WWE, dubbing it the "Renaissance Era." This term, laden with historical connotations of cultural and artistic revival, paints a picture of a period of growth and transformation within the wrestling industry.

“I’ve heard it coined as the Renaissance Era, and I really like that outlook on it,

For me, as a wrestler, I’m most excited that we no longer have to stand in the shadow of the Attitude Era because of the last two years we’ve done better business than they ever did”

Rhodes expressed his enthusiasm for this new era, highlighting a sense of liberation from the long-standing shadow of the Attitude Era. During the Attitude Era, which spanned the late 1990s to the early 2000s, WWE experienced unprecedented success and popularity, setting a high bar for subsequent generations of wrestlers. However, Rhodes contends that the current landscape of WWE has surpassed even those illustrious heights.

The wrestler-turned-executive-turned-wrestler pointed to the remarkable business performance of WWE in recent years as evidence of this newfound success.

According to Rhodes, WWE's achievements over the past two years have eclipsed those of the Attitude Era, signaling a shift in the dynamics of the industry.

This assertion underscores the significance of the ongoing changes and developments within WWE, indicating a departure from the established norms and a forging of new pathways forward.

Rhodes' characterization of the current era as a "Renaissance" implies not only a resurgence of interest and innovation but also a redefinition of wrestling's cultural relevance in contemporary society.

This sentiment resonates with fans and industry insiders alike, who recognize the evolving nature of professional wrestling and its enduring ability to captivate audiences worldwide.

As WWE continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of sports entertainment, Rhodes' perspective offers a compelling glimpse into the aspirations and ambitions driving this transformative period in the industry's history. The "Renaissance Era" beckons, promising an exciting journey filled with boundless potential and untold possibilities for wrestlers and fans alike.

The Rock to Begin Filming "Smashing Machine" Immediately After Wrestlemania

According to reports from ESPN, The Rock is set to dive straight into filming his next movie role in "The Smashing Machine” after Wrestlemania.

The Smashing Machine is an upcoming biographical drama film on the MMA and UFC legend Mark Kerr. A24 is producing the film, which will serve as the debut solo feature for director Benny Safdie. Starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Emily Blunt.

For The Rock, juggling the demands of both wrestling and acting is nothing short of a balancing act. Yet, his dedication to his craft and tireless work ethic continue to propel him to new heights of success in both arenas. As he transitions from the adrenaline-fueled world of WrestleMania to the disciplined environment of a film set, The Rock's ability to seamlessly navigate between these two worlds is a testament to his versatility as a performer.

While fans eagerly await updates on "The Smashing Machine" and The Rock's involvement in the project, one thing is certain: whether he's delivering spine-tingling promos in the wrestling ring or captivating audiences on the big screen, The Rock's magnetic presence and undeniable talent will continue to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.

In the meantime, as The Rock embarks on his next cinematic adventure, fans can look forward to the excitement of WrestleMania XL.

AEW Dynamite Results 04-03-2024

AEW Dynamite opens with a promo from Adam Copeland where he puts over the company, the locker room, the Elite and Tony Khan. This seems to be in response to CM Punk's Ariel Helwani.

“Theres been a lot of negative BS that has been spewed this week, there has. Screw that. I wanna talk about the positives — AEW makes pro-wrestling more fun, better & AEW is where the best wrestle.”

Copeland says they’re gonna leave the negative BS in the past and AEW is gonna move forward. He introduces Will “OSPREE” and the opening match begins.

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• WILL OSPREAY vs WILL HOBBS

Hobbs is beating on Ospreay, beyond the boundaries of “friendly competition”. Ospreay eventually powers through and wins a pretty excellent match. Hobbs tries to confront Ospreay after but Callis whispers something into his ear. They leave.

WINNER: Will Ospreay

Ospreay is on his way out when Bryan begins his entrance.

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• BRYAN DANIELSON vs LANCE ARCHER

Archer starts the match by taking Bryan out before the bell. This begins a pretty damn good David vs Goliath match between Bryan and Archer.

WINNER: Bryan Danielson

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• CHRIS JERICHO CALLS OUT HOOK

Chris Jericho comes out to a chorus of boos. Calls out Hook and says he really wants to move forward together but he needs to win Hooks trust.

Hook says he got them a match on Collision but he’s going to keep an eye on Jericho.

Jericho says “BET”

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• BILLY GUNN VS JAY WHITE

Billy Gunn beats the absolute crap out of Jay White for about 10 minutes before the screen shows the Acclaimed taken out by Bullet Club Gold. But it’s not enough to stop Billy Gunn from beating on Jay White. Eventually the BCG get involved and a DQ is called.

Post match, the Acclaimed even the odds and run off BCG. It appears Bullet Club Gold were given new ROH 6 Man Championship Belt Designs as well.

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Willow Nightingale is out to talk about her TBA Championship match against Julia Hart. She’s interrupted by Mercedes Mone who reveals she will challenge for the TBS Championship at Double or Nothing.

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• AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament: EVPs Matthew and Nicholas Jackson vs Best Friends(Orange Cassidy and Trent Baretta) w/Sue

Slow match that built to a very hot finish. I did think Best Friends had the win at one point. Anytime I can be convinced of a different winner in an obvious match is a good time.

WINNER: The EVPs Move to the Finals

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TRENT TURNS ON ORANGE CASSIDY IMMEDIATELY AFTER LOSING TO THE EVPS!!

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• MARIAH MAY VS THUNDER ROSA; WINNER FACES TONI STORM FOR THE AEW WOMEN'S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

They worked pretty hard but couldn’t get the crowd into it. Thunder Rosa has not been able to recover her lost momentum. But the match was technically sound.

WINNER: THUNDER ROSA

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Edge vs Penta El Zero Mierdo is announced for next week

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• SWERVE STRICKLAND AND SAMOA JOE CONTRACT SIGNING

"I'm going to beat you down so severely. It's going to leave you mentally scarred like you left Diddy's party too late." - Samoa Joe to Swerve Strickland

The contract signing turns into a brawl that leaves Swerve bloody and ko'd. But when Joe thinks he’s done and leave, Swerve starts laughing into a mic.

“If that’s all you got. I’m taking your World Championship. I love this shit.” Swerve takes a pen to his own head and signs the contract in his own blood

Joe rushes back to the ring but Swerve doesn’t care. Joe puts Swerve through a table to end the show.