Comic Book Clique

SmackDown To Revert Back to Two Hours

Jameus MooneyComment

A new report from BodySlam’s Patreon is reporting that SmackDown, which airs every Friday on the USA Network, will be dropping its third hour.

The show had gone to three hours in January of 2025 before dropping the final act over the Summer, and returning to three hours in January of 2026. While no reports have clarified other than the show is expecting to return to two hours in ‘a few weeks,’ it seems likely that this is part of the programming strategy for NBC. With linear tevlision needing to fill a certain quota of programming blocks, the value proposition of the third hour likely changes quarterly based on what programming the network has coming out.

Regardless, for WWE, a third hour provides extra ad revenue and a deeper content library, while a second hour can enhance the hourly rating average while also telling a more concise weekly television show. For the audience, this seems to be a more popular move as well, as three hours creates an environment where they have to sit through more filler, perhaps less-interesting television.

WWE recently pumped energy into the show by revamping its roster, bringing up former NXT Champion Ricky Saints and NXT North American Champion Blake Monroe, known to wrestling fans as Ricky Starks and Mariah May. They also had Fatal Influence, a trio consisting of Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, and Lainey Reed, attack some of their top stars on the roster: Alexa Bliss, Charlotte Flair, and WWE Hall of Famer Brie Bella. Whether this increases interest in the product or not remains to be seen, but SmackDown does seem to be embarking on a new era alongside its change in timeslot.

Dirt Sheet Radio and Comicbook Clique will continue to keep your updated as more information becomes available.

Updated List of WWE Releases

Jameus MooneyComment

As is common post-WrestleMania, WWE has begun rounds of roster reductions. This means that certain WWE superstars will be released from their contract, and paid either a 30-or-90-day no compete severence package, depending on if their deal was for development or main roster.

A reminder that this is an unfortunate day for everybody involved, as this is both their dream and livelihood, and to keep that in mind as the cuts happen.

Alba Fyre: Former NXT U.K. Women’s Champion Kay Lee Ray, currently wrestling under the name Alba Fyre and as part of Chelsea Green’s security detail, has been released from her contract. Ray had been with WWE since 2019, and on their main roster since 2022. Fyre has already changed her Twitter back to her original ring name, noting that Kay Lee Ray would batter Alba Fyre.

Wyatt Sicks: Joe Gacy, Bo Dallas, Nikki Cross, Erick Rowan, Dexter Lumis: It remains to be seen whether or not the rest of the group remains, but WWE’s once-promising faction as a tribute to Bray Wyatt has officially dissolved. Cross is the big member here, as a former RAW Women’s Champion during her Almost a Super Hero phase, and has been with the company for ten years, coming in as part of Eric Young’s SANITY. She has released a statement giving thanks for her experience. Dallas, on his second run with the company, was the champion when NXT first hit television, but his main roster runs have left a lot to be desired, while Gacy’s role has been primarily supporting in the act on the main roster, but had his own group in NXT. Rowan will be most remembered for his first run in which he was part of the original Wyatt trio with the late Bray Wyatt and Luke Harper, having coming come back to honor the memory of both in this rendition of the Wyatts. The final member of the group, Lumis, has put out a tweet from his NXT run where he’s “got the axe,” likely confirming his departure as well.

Zoey Stark: Trish Stratus’ former heavy has also been released from her contractual obligations. Stark has been on the sidelines for sometime, but recently cleared to return to action, awaiting creative direction.

Andre Chase: Chase U has lost its President again. Andre Chase, after five years in NXT and a lot of mileage out of the teacher gimmick, is no longer with the company.

Dante Chen: Chen was the first WWE superstar native to Singapore. He had been with the company for five years, all under NXT, and has been primarily working coconut loop and EVOLVE.

Aleister Black and Zelina Vega: WWE has cut both Zelina Vega and Aleister Black. Vega has been with the company since 2017, a year after Black first arrived. Black had been under contract for his second run for about a year, but had previously been a star for them as the NXT Champion.

Kairi Sane: Another Black and Gold staple who had come back after a previous release, Kairi Sane has once again been cut from her role in the company. A former Women’s Tag Team Champion and NXT Women’s Champion, the women’s division loses one of its most important vets.

Apollo Crews: Former U.S. and Intercontinental Champion Apollo Crews, who’s been primarily working Main Event in recent years, has bene released.

Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley; Legendary tag team the Motor City Machine Guns, most fondly remembered for their time in TNA, end their brief WWE tenure after an early Tag Team Championship win.

Santos Escobar: Perhaps a headscratcher after making a big deal in retaining him due to the recent acquisition of AAA, former Cruiserweight Champion Santos Escobar is no longer with the company.

Luca Crusifino: NXT’s resident lawyer has been released from his contract.

Malik Blade: Most famous for his tag team on NXT with Edris Enofe, Blade is no longer in NXT.

High Ryze: A team that used to be aligned with Wes Lee, Tyson Dupont and Tyriek Igwe have been released.

Chris Island: The LFG alum who learned under Mickie James and Booker T has been released from his contract.

Sirena Linton: Fellow LFG alum who learned under Mickie James and Booker T, Sirena Linton has also been released from her contract.

Tyra Mae Steele: A former Olympic Gold Medalist in freestyle wrestling and winner of LFG, Tyra Mae Steele showed a lot of potential, but unfortunately will not tap into it under her WWE deal.

Trill London: A former Miami Dolphi,, Trill London made his pro debut on EVOLVE a year ago. He has been released from his contract.

Comicbook Clique and Dirt Sheet Radio will keep you up to date.

Interview: CMLL's Black Tiger fka Magnus On the Legacy of the Mask

Jonathan EscuderoComment

In this exclusive interview, Jon Escudero sits down with the newly christened Black Tiger (formerly known as Magnus) to discuss one of the most prestigious legacies in professional wrestling and puroresu history.

Jon Escudero (Dirt Sheet Radio): How are you doing, Black Tiger? My name is Jon Escudero from Dirt Sheet Radio. How are you doing today?

Black Tiger: I’m fine! I’m very excited to be here to answer all your questions. It is a pleasure to be here with you. And of course it's YOUR pleasure to be here with ME

Escudero: Of course! Haha! I wanted to congratulate you first of all on officially becoming Black Tiger. What does it mean to you to step into this lineage previously held by legends like Silver King and Eddie Guerrero?

Black Tiger: It is a huge honor for me to be part of the history of puroresu. It’s not just about wrestling or lucha libre; it’s about the history of puroresu. I know I have a big job to do and I need to do my best because everyone knows the names: Mark "Rollerball" Rocco, Eddie Guerrero, Rocky Romero, and of course, Silver King. Not many people know this, but the very first mask a wrestler ever gave to me was a Black Tiger mask. Silver King gave it to me when I was about nine or ten years old, so it’s very special for me to be part of that history now with this name.

Escudero: Coming from such an incredible lucha libre family—with your father Tony Salazar and your cousin Mistico—did you feel any pressure to carve out your own legacy, and how does becoming Black Tiger help with that?

Black Tiger: I feel pressure, but it isn't from my family. From the very beginning, I started my career as Magnus—not Tony Salazar Jr. or Magnus Salazar. Of course, Mistico is part of the family, but everyone knows that when I made my debut here at Arena México, Mistico ran away like a coward to another company. He’s back now, but it’s totally different. I started my own career from the beginning; everyone has their own name. Now, it’s the same—I’m starting from zero and trying my best to grow and make my own way.

Escudero: You first put on this mask and teased the transformation at Fantasticamania a couple of times before facing the legendary Tiger Mask. Can you walk us through the process of how you officially became Black Tiger?

Black Tiger: It was crazy because the first time was in 2024. My debut in New Japan Pro-Wrestling was a lightning match against Tiger Mask IV. It was great to face such a huge legend for my first time in New Japan. This year, I took the mask of Black Tiger again. Everyone knows this is the final year for Tiger Mask, but what they don’t know is that it’s because Black Tiger is here. I want to show people around the world—not just in Japan or Mexico—that Black Tiger is the only true tiger in professional wrestling.

Escudero: That actually answers my next question! I was going to ask what it felt like to have that final Black Tiger vs. Tiger Mask match under your belt, and if you were interested in someone else becoming the next Tiger Mask to be your rival. But it sounds like you’re more interested in being the "single Tiger of the world" now.

Black Tiger: For me, it would be great to be the final opponent of Tiger Mask IV. At the same time, if they introduce a new Tiger Mask, it would be a pleasure to wrestle him as well. I want to be part of history as the man who retired the old Tiger Mask and the number one opponent for the new one. I don't know what plans they have, but the only thing on my mind right now is Tiger Mask IV. He says this is his last year, and I say that’s because of Black Tiger. He mentioned his last match might be in the middle of the year, but if I can retire him before then, that is exactly what’s going to happen.

Escudero: Historically, Black Tiger is used to represent a foreign antagonist or gaijin. How do you plan to evolve that for a modern, international audience?

Black Tiger: Previously, Black Tiger only wrestled in Japan for New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Now, I have the opportunity to be here in Mexico and work with partners in the UK and the US—companies like MLW, AEW, Ring of Honor, or RevPro. I want to be in every single company and win every single title. Here in Mexico, everyone knows Mistico is the face of the company, and everyone wants to be the new idol. I don’t want to be the new idol; I want to be the new Emperor of CMLL. I don’t mind if people love me or hate me; I’m just here to make an impact. Mistico, Tiger Mask, legends like Atlantis—be careful. I don’t care if you are a legend or an idol or if you come from another country. Black Tiger is number one. Black Tiger is ichiban.

Escudero: Thank you so much, Black Tiger. It’s been a pleasure talking to you. Muchas gracias por la entrevista conmigo.

Black Tiger: Thank you so much. Have a good one.

INTERVIEW: Thunder Rosa opens up about her return to CMLL, her heritage, and more

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Thunder Rosa is a woman in perpetual motion, balancing a relentless schedule with a deep-rooted pride in her heritage and her craft.

Speaking with Dirt Sheet Radio’s Jon ahead of her return to CMLL for the 83rd anniversary of Arena Coliseo, the former AEW and NWA Women’s World Champion—and the first Mexican-born female wrestler to capture both titles—opened up about her return to CMLL, her heritage, and what she's doing in her time away from the ring.

this interview has been edited for length and clarity

Jon Escudero: How are you doing, Thunder Rosa? My name is Jon, I'm from Dirt Sheet Radio. How's your day been?

Thunder Rosa: Oh, it's been great, thank you. Busy, busy, busy.

Jon: I can imagine. You are returning to CMLL for the second time ever for the 83rd anniversary of Arena Coliseo. You're gonna be teaming with La Jarochita y Garra Negra to face Zeuxis, Keyra, and Sanely. How familiar are you with these girls?

Thunder Rosa: Well, with Jarochita, I had a match before. Garra Negra was Hija de Gatubela, so I know her; I've seen her work. And with all my other opponents, I've definitely seen their work. Keyra is one of the most talked-about women for a while. I think in 2018 or 2019, she was quebrando—she was everywhere. All my friends know her, and I know of her work. It's really interesting to be in the ring with six different women because we all have different personalities, and it's gonna be fun. I'm just there to learn, to see how we can have the best match, especially if it's two-out-of-three falls, 'cause we don't do those in America as much. It's always a learning experience.

Jon: When you first got onto national television in America, I feel like you were one of a smaller number of people representing Latino/Mexican culture on US television completely unapologetically, without anybody else's influence on it. It was just straight you. Now, maybe six years later, you're seeing a huge expansion of Lucha Libre internationally. How important is it to you, coming off of an extended break into this environment that seems to be at a zenith, to get involved and represent your brand of Latino and Mexican culture? Is it almost reversed now, a little bit?

Thunder Rosa: No, it's not reversed. It is what it is, honey. This is the thing, and this is what I was saying in the Spanish interviews: a lot of people question my being a Mexicana, right? But it happens here in America. When you are from Mexico and you come here, learn English, and speak English all the time, people tend to forget that. They call you a pocha. That's what I used to call my cousins, pochos, right? But I'm not a pocha; I am Mexican-American. Once you embrace who you are and where you come from, it makes things a lot easier for you to really be loud and proud. I think one of the things this year is that I'm brown and proud, 'cause this is who I am. I always made sure I highlighted that I'm the first Mexican-born female wrestler—I want to put this really clearly—to win a championship in the National Wrestling Alliance and also in All Elite Wrestling, which is one of the major companies in the world. It's a lot, because this really opens doors to other binational women like me, or even Latinas who aren't from here but are coming here with a visa or permit and breaking out. They're not gonna struggle as much. I struggled to get these opportunities; they're not gonna be as scrutinized as I was at one point. It is important because this becomes a pride of my community. Representing the 664, the 619, the 210—which is San Antonio, San Diego, and Tijuana—it's important that they know where I'm from. I'm from Tijuana, Mexico. I am a daughter of the border. We are people of caliber and we will never give up. Believe me, if you can make it at the border, you can make it anywhere. I made it at the border, and I have been able to make it anywhere.

Jon: One thing that's a little bit unrelated to that is there's been an ongoing conversation within the professional wrestling industry about getting your reps—whether you're able to get them in on a national level, and how much that benefits older talent versus younger talent. I feel like there's an issue finding the balance of how many house shows...

Thunder Rosa: I think it all depends on where you are physically after so many reps, right? But once you are in a rhythm and wrestling all the time, you can't feel the pain. If you are not in the rhythm, believe me, you're gonna feel the pain. So it is important that: 1) you always stay in shape, and 2) you take care of your body like it's your temple. I know this sounds corny 'cause we all say that, but you have to invest in physical therapy as much as possible because this is our money maker. Also, we are entertainers. Sometimes you don't have to do a bunch of stuff; you just have to entertain. I feel like Lucha Libre is physically very demanding, and three matches in three days is gonna bring my level up. Believe me, if I keep going to Mexico, when they see me here in America, they're gonna be like, "Hey, you need to slow down." And I'm gonna be like, "Mmm, this is what you got. This is Thunder Rosa 2020, Thunder Rosa 2019." Cause let me tell you, during COVID, I was having five matches a week with no people in there. Five matches a week, you know? Nobody could lace my boots at the time, and I still feel that right now with my energy. It's all about that energy. I'm having fun, enjoying the process, going home to my people in Mexico, feeling the energy, and getting that feedback. It's really gonna help me become an even better wrestler, an even better veteran. Right now, as you've seen on my social media, I'm super busy. Just in the month of April alone, I have seven matches outside of AEW. It's a big deal for me, haha.

Jon: I love to see it. With that being said, you're gonna be making your return to CMLL this weekend. Can we expect to see more Thunder Rosa in Arena Coliseo and Arena Mexico?

Thunder Rosa: I mean, hopefully so. Right now, I'm booked for these three days, and this is what I'm focusing on. Whatever happens in the future will happen. I'm gonna pray, and I'm gonna manifest championships, success, and health. That's the most important part for me.

Jon: Awesome. My final question is one I'm gonna try to ask everyone from now on. At Dirt Sheet Radio, we cover more than just pro wrestling; we cover pop culture, movies, books, TV, and all of that. I would like to know what Thunder Rosa is consuming outside of professional wrestling that helps to not just inspire you, but entertain you?

Thunder Rosa: Well, lately I've been very focused. I listen to the news in the morning—Apple News for 15 minutes, that's it. Then I listen to a lot of podcasts that talk about health, mental health, and physical health. I watch a couple of shows on Hulu and Apple TV that keep my mind away from it. Lately, I've been watching a lot of soccer. I just watched Italy versus Bosnia; Bosnia won, so it was incredible. I think soccer is such a fun game, and everybody's so into it all over the world—except the United States for some reason, hahaha.

Jon: Well, thank you very much, Thunder Rosa. I really appreciate you giving me your time here today. Good luck this weekend and with everything else you've got going on right now. I know you're busy.

Thunder Rosa: Yes, thank you, Jon.

INTERVIEW: CMLL World Heavyweight Champion Hechicero on His Goals As Champion and Much More

Jonathan EscuderoComment

On March 20th, the landscape of CMLL shifted when Hechicero defeated Claudio Castagnoli to capture the CMLL World Heavyweight Championship. Now holding one of the most prestigious prizes in Lucha Libre and boasting a groundbreaking dual-contract with AEW and CMLL, "The Alchemist" is on the run of a lifetime.

Dirt Sheet Radio’s Jon Escudero and Nick LaRocco recently sat down with the newly minted champion to discuss his historic title win, the pressure of his viral in-ring innovations, and his ultimate mission to cement his legacy on a global stage.

Jon Escudero: How are you doing, Hechicero? My name is Jon Escudero, and this is Nick LaRocco. We're from Dirt Sheet Radio. Eight years ago, you made your debut in PWG, and you really got to show off your skills to the American audience for the first time. Looking back on that Battle of Los Angeles weekend, and compared to where you are now with the AEW and CMLL contracts, do you feel like that was an important moment that led to the situation you have now?

Hechicero: Yes, without a doubt. First of all, it’s a pleasure to greet you guys and your audience. It’s been a journey of different stages. I am definitely not the same wrestler from that distant 2018 when I appeared in PWG. Back then, it was a very defined, niche target audience. Now, participating in All Elite Wrestling, it’s a more hybrid, global audience. I keep growing and learning. I am a very different wrestler now, but I still have the same dream and the same need to consolidate myself and be better every day. That debut in the USA helped me a lot to get more experience, and I'm still learning to be ready for every show in the United States. That is so important for what I'm doing with this relationship between AEW and CMLL.

Nick LaRocco: You've had a long career already throughout Mexico, but also the United States, Japan, the UK, and other areas. What stood out the most to you from working in front of all these different international crowds?

Hechicero: It’s the best thing that has happened in my career. It's what I always look for to consolidate my position as a professional. Since I started in wrestling 24 years ago, I always said I wanted to be an icon of Mexican Lucha Libre at an international level—a great representative of our wrestling. Being in so many countries opens the doors of the world to me and gives me the drive to be better every day. I have no limits. To be World Champion once again in CMLL is something I really wanted in my career. I'm so grateful for the opportunity and so happy to be the new World Champion.

Jon Escudero: As you mentioned, you are the new World Heavyweight Champion. Congratulations, by the way. I assume it's going to be a very different experience than the last time you were CMLL World Champion because you have discovered a very large, new audience with your dual contract situation. Is there any pressure now being the new champion?

Hechicero: Much, much pressure. My previous stage as champion was not what I wanted; I didn't have the defenses or the internationalization that I would have liked. Claudio Castagnoli definitely restored the prestige, vision, hierarchy, and international power of this championship. I want to defend it not only in Mexico with CMLL, but also in the United States with AEW, in England with RevPro, in Japan with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and in Canada with Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling. I want to make history. Claudio played a great role and gave the championship the importance it deserves. I defeated a great professional in Claudio Castagnoli, and now I have to try to do even more than he achieved. I'm ready for all the new challenges.

Nick LaRocco: You are without a doubt one of the most creative and original wrestlers out there. Your moves that you have invented right in the middle of the ring have gone super viral on social media. Because of that, do you feel any pressure from the modern age of social media to keep innovating every time you step foot into the ring?

Hechicero: Yes, there is pressure, but I enjoy that kind of pressure. It’s something I have built over 24 years as a professional wrestler. I like how the fans, my opponents, the media, and the press all have high expectations about what I'm going to do in the ring. It is my mission as a professional to leave those moves and holds as my legacy—something that inspires. I was inspired by many wrestlers, and I want to be an inspiration for new generations.

Jon Escudero: I actually discovered you through AEW television, and you're one of my new favorites around the world. Running Dirt Sheet Radio, I see thousands of people finding Hechicero as one of their new favorite wrestlers. If there is anything you want your new fans to know about you, what would that be?

Hechicero: Hechicero always has magic, and that is what I want to achieve and build. I want to be a luchador who not only inspires and motivates others but also challenges my opponents. I like them to push me so I keep growing. But also, when entering the American wrestling audience like AEW, I have to become a great character. That's very important to me. It’s not just about the wrestler who executes submissions and innovates moves, but also being a character capable of capturing the attention of both loyal wrestling fans and new audiences. That's something I am really working to prove with this dual contract.

Nick LaRocco: You're known as the Alchemist, and when I think of alchemy, I think of chemistry. When it comes to chemistry, who would you say you have the best chemistry with in the ring, either as an opponent or a partner?

Hechicero: It is difficult to mention just one or a few because my biggest challenge in wrestling is adapting. I think that capacity to adapt—to the rival, to the audience—was the main quality that made me the first luchador to receive a dual contract with CMLL and AEW. A natural rival because of our styles clashing would be Zack Sabre Jr. Claudio has also become a great strategist in the ring. I also love working alongside El Clon and the Don Callis Family. There is great chemistry in the locker room. It's complicated to give just a single list, but I enjoy the challenge of adapting to different styles in Lucha Libre and wrestling.

Jon Escudero & Nick LaRocco: Thank you so much for your time. Have a good night.

Hechicero: Thank you, thank you for the space.

INTERVIEW: CMLL's Max Star Opens Up About His Apuestas Win Over Pólvora in Arena Mexico, His Dream Matches and His Goals

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Jon Escudero: How are you doing, Max? My name is Jon Escudero, I'm from Dirt Sheet Radio. How are you doing today?

Max Star: Very good, very good. I'm grateful for the space and pleased to be here on this program.

Jon Escudero: You got the biggest win of your career last Friday in Arena Mexico. Mask versus mask, you took Pólvora's mask. What did it mean to you to get that win at this moment in your career?

Max Star: It's very meaningful to me; it's one of the first and most significant triumphs in the career of Max Star. It was an inexplicable mix of emotions at that moment—the nerves, the passion, the love for lucha libre. There were a lot of mixed feelings, but it was very beautiful. I can't express with a specific word exactly how I feel about this victory, but I know it is going to really boost my career.

Jon Escudero: Speaking of your career, what made you want to dedicate your life to lucha libre in the first place?

Max Star: My passion for lucha libre began when I was a child. It comes from my heritage; my father was a luchador in a small arena very close to my home called Arena La Loba. It's a small arena that is now extinct, but I remember being there every Sunday. Every Saturday, I was watching Mexican lucha libre on TV. That's the beginning of how I fell in love with lucha libre.

Jon Escudero: In your training, you've been trained by people like Virus and Bandido, and I assume your father helped a bit in that too. What is the most important thing you've taken with you from the training you've gotten from these men?

Max Star: It is so important as a young luchador to listen to teachers of that caliber. I always mention my teachers, like Tony Salazar, Arturo Beristain, Volador Jr., and even Ultimo Guerrero. I've never formally trained with Ultimo Guerrero, but every time I'm on the same show with him, I always listen to him and receive his advice. Listening to all these luchadores and learning from their experience is so special and important to my career, so I can understand what they are trying to explain and eventually approach their level.

Jon Escudero: In the beginning of your career, you went by "Little Star." What prompted the evolution to "Max Star"?

Max Star: In the first years of my career, I started as Little Star because I was very young—a little gladiator. When I arrived at CMLL and started in the school's tournament, I eventually received the opportunity to be part of the main roster. The programming department asked me if I wanted to make a change, telling me I wasn't that "little one" anymore and was becoming a professional-sized star. So they gave me the idea to become the maximum star: Max Star. It's part of the process of growing here in CMLL, and it was the exact next step I needed.

Jon Escudero: At Dirt Sheet Radio, we cover more than wrestling; we do pop culture, entertainment, movies, and things like that. Is there anything outside of pro wrestling that influences your work, your gear, or the way you approach your storytelling?

Max Star: I am a big fan of music, especially regional Mexican music. I dedicated some time to playing the guitar, and I even tried to sing. I'm not a very good singer, but I enjoy it, so that's a big hobby of mine.

Jon Escudero: Maybe one day we'll see you play the guitar down the ramp in Arena Mexico for an entrance!

Max Star: If I start practicing again, maybe someday! I would probably need to practice more to see if I can still play the guitar.

Jon Escudero: Is there anything in particular you would want an international audience to know about you, or a goal you haven't conquered yet that you are aiming for?

Max Star: My dream is to conquer the NWA World Historic Welterweight Championship. Mascara Dorada is the current champion. It's something I really want because when I was younger, my idol, Volador Jr., was the Historic Welterweight Champion. I hope that in the future, I can receive a title match against Mascara Dorada or whoever the champion is at that time.

Jon Escudero: My final question: of all the wrestlers around the world, if you could pick three outside of CMLL to share the ring with, who would they be?

Max Star: The first one is Will Ospreay. Second is Ricochet. And finally, even though he is Mexican, he is part of the relationship between AEW and CMLL—I would love to have a one-on-one match with Komander.

Jon Escudero: Thank you very much, Max. I couldn't do the interview in Spanish because I understand it better than I speak it, but thank you very much for talking with me.

Max Star: No, thank you! Thanks for the space, and I appreciate it very much. Greetings and a hug.

INTERVIEW: AEW's Claudio Castagnoli on What It Means to Be CMLL World Heavyweight Champion

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Current CMLL World Heavyweight Champion Claudio Castagnoli opened up to us about his historic title reign and his reputation as one of professional wrestling's strongest athletes in an exclusive interview.

Speaking about his current run in Arena Mexico, Castagnoli emphasized the deep personal significance of holding the championship during this boom period for the promotion.

"I've been trying to work for CMLL for almost twenty years," Castagnoli shared. "To see this come full circle, and to represent the company, I don't take this lightly at all, and I'm very proud of it."

He acknowledged the promotion's surging popularity, noting that the current momentum adds a welcome layer of expectation to be "the best CMLL World Heavyweight Champion there is."

When asked about his most impressive feats of strength, the powerhouse acknowledged iconic visual moments like swinging The Great Khali and lifting Paul Wight. However, he pointed to a less obvious physical achievement as his proudest: his in-ring conditioning.

Castagnoli highlighted his ability to perform at an elite level and defend his title in Mexico City's notorious high altitude—a condition that routinely exhausts other competitors. "It's all part of the training to me," Castagnoli explained. "I base my training around results so that I can do those feats without thinking... I need to be able to perform at my best no matter when, no matter where."

Rather than definitively naming a single favorite display of strength, the champion turned the question over to the audience, inviting fans to debate which of his legendary feats they found the most fun to watch.

  • FULL TRANSCRIPT

Jon: How you doing, Claudio? My name is Jon, this is Nick! We're from Dirt Sheet Radio.

Claudio Castagnoli: What's up, Jon! What's up, Nick!

Jon: Hello. Uh, it's been twenty-six years since you got into the business; for twenty of those, I've been a fan of you. This recent time with you as CMLL World Champion has been a blast to watch, seeing you in Arena Mexico in these main events and these semi-main events. How... what does it mean to you to be World Heavyweight Champion in CMLL at this time in particular, when their popularity seems to be at a zenith?

Claudio Castagnoli: Um, it feels very special for me. Like you mentioned, you know, I've been doing this for quite a while, and I've been a fan of CMLL. I've been trying to work for CMLL for almost twenty years. And to see this come full circle, and to represent the company, I don't take this lightly at all, and I'm very proud of it. I'm very proud of being part of that tradition. And you know, you mentioned how CMLL is doing so well right now and it's incredibly popular. I would just be happy to be part of CMLL at any point, but to be part of it at this point, I just feel like the pressure is on even more for me to represent them well, for me to honor the tradition, and to be the best CMLL World Heavyweight Champion there is.

Nick: Perfect, thank you. Yes, you know, the Arnold Classic has just wrapped up, and it started getting me thinking about feats of strength. Now, you have built a reputation as one of the strongest wrestlers in the world. I wanted to ask you, what's the one feat of strength that you've done that, you know, even made you go, "Okay, now that was impressive"?

Claudio Castagnoli: I don't know, um... there's a, I mean, like swinging The Great Khali. I think that will always be kind of up there. You know, picking up Paul Wight. But I feel like there's also stuff that maybe people don't really see. Because people always gravitate towards the feats of strength that are very visual, but there's a lot of little things that people maybe don't pick up. Um, so for example, what I'm very proud of is that I'm able to travel the world, go to Mexico City, and perform at the level that I think I do, and be able to retain the CMLL World Championship at an altitude that, honestly, other competitors struggle at. And for me, to just do that... you know, it's all part of the training to me. I base my training around results so that I can do those feats without thinking, if that makes sense. Because I feel I need to be able to perform at my best no matter when, no matter where. So, I think this is a better question for the fans, to be like, "Hey, which feat of strength do you think was the most fun?"

Nick: Perfect, thank you so much. Yeah, we'll get that question right out there to the fans.

Claudio Castagnoli: Perfect, thank you very much. And thanks for your support. I love being CMLL World Heavyweight Champion. And yeah, keep watching CMLL, it's so much fun.

INTERVIEW: CMLL and AEW's Persephone On Mercedes Moné, Persephone's Evolution, Choosing to Sign a Duel Deal

Jonathan EscuderoComment

As the wrestling world prepares for a massive Women’s World Championship clash this Friday, CMLL’s breakout sensation Persephone is stepping into the spotlight with more eyes on her than ever before. In an exclusive conversation with Dirt Sheet Radio, the powerhouse luchadora reflected on her meteoric rise, her tactical shift ahead of the Mercedes Moné rematch, and the "personal debate" that led to her historic dual-promotion status.

Jon: My name is Jon Escudero. This is Nick LaRocco. We're from Dirt Sheet Radio. How are you doing today, Persephone?

Persephone: Hi Jon, hi Nick! How are you guys? I'm good.

Jon: We're doing great. We're really quick here, so I just wanted to ask you: you are growing an insane amount of momentum right now, especially in the United States, where it seems like people are looking at you like "that could be the next big thing." You faced Mercedes Moné previously in October, but coming into this match on Friday for the Women's World Championship, do you feel any extra pressure knowing that you might have a lot more eyes on you this time? And are you going into this match with a different mindset from the last one?

Persephone: For sure. I think since October up until now, things have definitely changed. In just a few months—because it really hasn't been that long—like you said, I had the dual contract announcement, I've been on Ring of Honor and U.S. territories a lot more now. So, I feel I have grown, and I'm starting to take off in the U.S. more than I had in the past. I think there is a little bit more pressure now because maybe fans of Mercedes who didn't know who I was back in October will be watching now, obviously with a little bit of worry for their hero. So, I think there's definitely going to be a lot more eyes, but this time around I actually feel a lot calmer. I think there was a bit of pressure in October because it was my first one-on-one with her, so there was the pressure of what to expect and how to go about it. I think a lot of emotions were in that match that got the better of me. This time around, I can go in a lot calmer and just out-wrestle her. I was an Olympic wrestler before a pro wrestler, and this is just what I've always loved—wrestling itself. So, I think this time around, with that match done—even though it wasn't the result I wanted—at least the experience is out of the way. I can go in a lot calmer and just do what I love to do, which is wrestle.

Nick: Awesome, thank you very much. Yeah, Persephone, I wanted to ask you: when you look at yourself from your debut to now, what would you say has been your absolute biggest evolution as a wrestler? And on top of that, where do you see the next evolution taking you?

Persephone: Do you mean debut like the actual... very, very beginning? Yes, there is just so much. Especially in the past couple of years, there has been a lot. I think right now, to the U.S. fanbase, it seems like the rocket just got strapped on me and I'm starting to take off. But for those who weren't really familiar with CMLL or the Mexico territory when it comes to Lucha Libre, that rocket started back in October of 2024 when I won my first championship in CMLL. From there, it took off—going to Tokyo, to London, winning the Grand Prix, and getting the opportunity with Mercedes the first time around. Things on the Mexico side have really taken off, and I think that's where the first big transformation was: training every day for those opportunities, and then all of a sudden, they all kind of came in at once. It was like a big rush, one after another after another. I don't think people realize just how heavy it can be going back and forth from one big moment to another without a pause or a break. I think that was the first big transformation. Every time there was a different opportunity, maybe a little bit bigger than the last, you didn't really get a breath before the next step. You just kind of have to keep pushing. "Okay, I just did this, but now I have to do this. Now I have to go to Tokyo and the Tokyo Dome." You just have to push through it. Then after that, you're going to the O2 Arena in London, and after that, you're going to do the Grand Prix. It was just thing after thing. Don't get me wrong, they are great opportunities, but you don't really get a breath. It’s about finding that will to keep pushing despite being exhausted. I think that was the first big transformation after years of just being on the grind.

Jon: Absolutely, thank you. One final question for you, and it's kind of a two-parter. As I mentioned, you've been gaining a lot of momentum in the U.S., but that also got you attention from some other bigger places in the states. Particularly, I saw an interview you did with Mark Henry where he wanted you to use the World's Strongest Slam; he loved you so much!

Persephone: Yeah, yeah! Ha ha!

Jon: Was there a chance you had to make a decision before you were offered a contract now? Or did they get to you fast before anyone else had an opportunity?

Persephone: Yes and no. That interview with Mark was great, and I still have the World's Strongest Slam in mind—don't get me wrong! That's still in the back of my head; I'll still bust that out one day. But yes and no—my CMLL contract was close to expiring, but it had not expired yet. Anytime a contract is going to expire, you obviously have to get to that point of "What do we do now? What comes from this? Are we going to renew or move on?" On a personal and professional level, you have to analyze where you're at and what you've done. "Is this the same path I want to be on? Do I want to switch gears?" There was a moment of weighing out options, but it was more of a personal debate. Nothing had even been offered yet, but I was thinking about what I was going to do from here. Before the contract officially expired, that was when the dual one was offered. So, the debate was more of: "Do I continue on this path I'm on, which is staying in Mexico and continuing to be the face of CMLL while now branching out to AEW, or do I switch gears entirely?" It was a personal debate of what path I wanted to be on.

Jon: Awesome. Well, thank you very much for your time. I appreciate that so much, and good luck on Friday!

Persephone: No, thank you guys! Thank you guys, I appreciate it.

SPOILER: WRESTLER RETURNS AT DYNAMITE; MASSIVE CHANGE MADE TO SCHEDULED MATCH

Jonathan Escudero1 Comment

Massive plot developments have occurred at the ongoing Dynamite tapings in Manchester, England this afternoon.

The devil has returned and he has CASHED IN his Casino Gauntlet Championship opportunity. MJF has added himself to the AEW World Championship match at Worlds End.

It will now be Samoa Joe defending his World Heavyweight Championship against Hangman Adam Page, Swerve Strickland and MJF.

SPOILER: IDENTITY OF MASKED MAN AT SURVIVOR SERIES REVEALED

Jonathan EscuderoComment

The closing moments of tonight’s Survivor Series: WarGames main event descended into chaos when a masked individual infiltrated the cage, costing CM Punk and his team the victory.

While the assailant’s identity was concealed under a hood and face covering during the broadcast, a new report from Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp indicates that the mystery man is none other than former United States Champion Austin Theory.

The interference occurred during the climax of a brutal WarGames match that saw Team Punk (CM Punk, Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, and The Usos) battling "The Vision" (Bron Breakker, Bronson Reed, Logan Paul, Drew McIntyre, and Brock Lesnar). As Punk prepared to deliver a decisive blow to Bron Breakker, the masked intruder scaled the cage structure, slipping through the mesh to deliver a vicious attack on the "Best in the World." The assault left Punk incapacitated, allowing Breakker to secure the pinfall victory for his team.

According to Sapp, WWE sources have confirmed that the man under the mask was indeed Austin Theory. Theory has been absent from WWE television since July 2025 following the dissolution of his tag team with Grayson Waller.

For those following backstage rumblings, Theory’s involvement in this specific match may not come as a total surprise, though the method of his arrival was unexpected. Prior to the shoulder injury that forced Seth Rollins to vacate the World Heavyweight Championship earlier this fall, rumors were heavily circulating regarding Theory’s status. At the time, creative plans reportedly positioned Theory to join Rollins' faction, "The Vision," as a key member.

AEW Dynamite Results 11-19-2025

Jonathan EscuderoComment

🗣️Bobby let me go.. BOBBAAYYYY🗣️

  • Bobby Lashley def. Ricochet

Ricochet opens Dynamite with an obnoxious promo, trying to stall his match with Bobby Lashley. After about 5 minutes, Bobby Lashley finally shuts him up with a chokeslam OUTSIDE of the ring.

Bobby Lashley hits a spear shortly after and pins Ricochet to win the number one spot in the Casino Gauntlet


  • The Young Bucks and Josh Alexander def. Sky Flight

Great match but the Young Bucks and Josh Alexander were not getting along the entire match.

Alexander steals the win from the Bucks by putting the finished Dante Martin in an ankle lock.

Post match Don Callis tries to get the Young Bucks to announce they're in the DCF but Kenny Omega runs out. Don Callis wants the Bucks to end Kenny but they are hesitant.

Jurassic Express runs out and the Bucks seem relieved. Jungle Boy has a COMICALLY LARGE shovel and Luchasaurus has a VACUUM CLEANER 💀


🚨Shelton Benjamin and Bobby Lashley will face each other in the Casino Gauntlet at #1 and #2🚨

  • Shelton Benjamin def. Mike Bailey

The match was going GREAT until a miscommunication ruined the finish.

Either Mike Bailey forgot to kick out or the referee made a mistake but the ref just stopped counting at two with Mike Bailey's shoulder still on the mat

Shelton Benjamin MURDERED Mike Bailey after that for the finish


John Cena's Final WWE RAW Results 11-17-2025

Jonathan EscuderoComment

John Cena opens RAW making his very last entrance on the program

CROWD: Shut the fk up! Shut the fk up! 🗣️

JOHN CENA: Netflix, they're saying CHOCO FUN CUP. Please leave it on the air. 💀

John Cena opens RAW by thanking Madison Square Garden. Cena gets about an 8 minute long ovation.

Before he can get into his words, he's interrupted by Dirty Dom Mysterio. Dom tries to talk and obviously the crowd won't let him.

Dom wants his title back. Cena is willing to do it right now. Dom says AT SURVIVOR SERIES in Dom's hometown in San Diego on ESPN. John Cena accepts.

But Cena still wants a fight. The Judgement Day comes out and they jump John Cena.

Sheamus runs out for the save and the numbers are still too much.

But REY MYSTERIO RETURNS!!!

Rey Mysterio will team with Sheamus and John Cena against the Judgement Day RIGHT NOW!!!

  • John Cena, Sheamus and Rey Mysterio def the Judgement Day in John Cena's final WWE RAW Match

Fifteen Knuckle Shuffle, Double 619, Brogue Kick and an FU to send em off!!

And that's all she wrote folks


Judgement Day got into a pull apart with Andrew Shultz and the New York Rangers during the commercial break


Stephanie Vaquer is supposed to come out and call out Nikki Bella but she gets attacked during her entrance.

Nikki says she didn't come back to be Stephanie's sidekick, she wants to take back what's hers.


🎶I'm here to show the world!! 🎶

Dolph Ziggler is Solo Sikoa's mystery opponent!!!

  • LAST TIME IS NOW TOURNAMENT: SOLO SIKOA DEF. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Dolph Ziggler wrestled like his life was on the line. Solo Sikoa kicked out of a Zig Zag and hits a massive Samoan Spike for the win


Lil Yachti officially joins the celeb in the crowd Hall of Fame after pulling out the PSP with SvR 2006 🔥


Alex Bliss calls out Charlotte for letting her get jumped last week on Smackdown. The crowd WHATd her the entire time.

Asuka, Kairi, Lash and Nia come out to jump Alexa but Rhea and Asuka run out. They're not enough so Charlotte finally runs out for the save

Charlotte was hugging Alexa Bliss and looking at Rhea/Iyo sideways..

So Iyo hugged up on Rhea. She's got friends too damnit


  • WWE Women's Intercontinental Championship: Maxxine Dupri def. Becky Lynch(c)

What an incredible moment for Maxinne Dupri!! The new WWE Women's Intercontinental Champion!!

Becky Lynch was ripping a turnbuckle off when AJ Lee returns and distracts her long enough for Maxxine to hit a crossbody and get the win!!!


Gunther has his WALTER music back!!!!!!

Symphony no. 9 in E Minor!!!

  • Last Time is Now Tournament: Gunther def. JeVon Evans in an instant classic.

Absolutely fantastic match. Wonderful showcase for JeVon and an excellent kickstart to the latest phase of Gunther's career


AJ Lee and Maxxine are celebrating backstage but Rhea wants to talk to AJ Lee for a second..

AJ Lee for War Games?? 👀


INSANE ending to Monday Night RAW

Paul Heyman says he has walked the Samoa Swat Team, Dangerous Alliance, and the Bloodline to War Games...

But this team is the most dangerous yet. Team CM Punk interrupts Heyman. A brawl breaks out.

BROCK LESNAR runs out to join team Heyman and clears the ring of both World Champions before Roman Reigns comes out to confront his old rival!

Reigns takes out Lesnar. Bronson Reed takes out Reigns. Team Punk regroups but police officers have arrived to break up the brawl.

Roman SPEARS Bronson Reed and an NYPD officer through the barricades to end RAW.

SPOILERS: Major Names Expected Backstage at WWE RAW in Madison Square Garden

Jonathan EscuderoComment

🚨🚨MASSIVE SPOILERS🚨🚨

Bodyslam.net is reporting AJ Lee, Liv Morgan and Roman Reigns are expected to be backstage at WWE RAW in Madison Square Garden tonight.

AJ Lee has long been rumored to be the final member of the babyface team in the Women's War Games match.

Liv Morgan has been off of TV since suffering an arm injury during a match with Kairi Sane earlier this year. She's expected back in the ring in Early 2026.

Roman Reigns has been off of TV for a few weeks. Fans have expected him to be Solo Sikoa’s mystery opponent in the John Cena Last Time is Now Tournament. But it appears there is an ENTIRELY different plan in place.

Fightful is reporting DOLPH ZIGGLER is expected to take on Solo Sikoa. Sean Ross Sapp reports materials were produced in relation to Dolph Ziggler participating in the Last Time is Now tournament on tonight's episode of Raw.

Fightful is also reporting BROCK LESNAR was flown into NYC on a private jet Sunday evening and is expected to be backstage at WWE RAW in Madison Square Garden

AEW Dynamite Results 11-12-2025

Jonathan EscuderoComment

🚨One of the most entertaining matches of the year🚨

  • Women's Blood and Guts: Marina Shafir, Megan Bayne, Mercedes Moné, Triangle of Madness def. Willow, Harley, Kris, Jamie, Mina and Toni Storm

We had thumbtacks, kendo sticks wrapped in barbed wire, 13 championship belts, broken glass, thumbtack covered Baseball Bats and of course..BLOOD AND GUTS!!!

At one point, Thekla and Julia Hart escape the cage by climbing through on of the trussels. Thekla murders a referee and steals the keys to the door, locking half the participants in.

Mercedes and Kris Statlander climb the side of the cage and Kris Statlander hits a Samoan drop on Mone off the side through a table.

Toni Storm makes several references to the Hollywood Ending, including broken glass, tape death match gloves and the infamous shoe!!

The match ends when the heels attempt to kill Mina Shirakawa while forcing Toni Storm to watch.

Toni Storm eventually gives up to save her lover 💔

Order of Entry:

Skye Blue

Willow Nightengale

Julia Hart

Harley Cameron

Thekla

Jamie Hayter

Megan Bayne

Kris Statlander

Mercedes Moné

Mina Shirakawa

Marina Shafir

Toni Storm


The Don Callis Family beat down Jurassic Express for the Young Bucks but the Bucks don't appear to have asked for this to happen.

Okada tells them time is up, their answer is expected next week. ⌚


Hangman Page vs Samoa Joe IN A STEEL CAGE FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP AT FULL GEAR!!!

  • Falls Count Anywhere: Hangman Adam Page def. Powerhouse Hobbs

Just a great match that showcased Powerhouse Hobbs as unstoppable until Hangman was able to find an advantage.

Post match, Joe and Shibata jump Hangman and call for the cage to be lowered. Eddie Kingston and Hook run out to save Hangman.

Hangman says if Joe wants him in a cage, he should've just asked Dumbass. IT IS OFFICIAL!


Ricky "the Dragon" Steamboat is out to talk about Sting and history in North Carolina Wrestling when he's interrupted by FTR.

Dax says he's a better legend than Ricky ever was, Ricky gets in his face and FTR actually start beating him down!!!

Brodido run out very quickly to put a stop to it, allowing Ricky to get some revenge on Dax


🚨What the bloody violent have we just witnessed?!🚨

  • Men's Blood and Guts: The Conglomeration, Roderick Strong and Darby Allin def. The Death Riders

Mark Briscoe is taken out backstage, and declared unable to compete.

Jon Moxley's entrance to the match brings the VIOLENCE!!

Moxley actually brings all the broken weapons from the Women's Blood and Guts Match and starts STABBING the opponents with both a fork and the remains of the mirror that broke over Toni Storm's face.

Kyle O'Reilly is bleeding WORSE than Skye Blue.

Darby Allin hits a coffin drop while hanging from the top of the cage, clearing the ring. PAC makes his entrance and the doors are closed.

BUT MARK BRISCOE IS HERE!!!! Briscoe brings a toolbox and helps even the odds before CLIMBING to the top of the cage

Briscoe creates a PULLY SYSTEM and brings up six chairs to fight Wheeler Yuta with. Briscoe gives Yuta. Jay Driller on the roof, onto the chairs.

Gabe Kidd appears and TAZERS Darby Allin before dragging him to the top of the ramp, putting a belt around his neck, PAC tosses Darby off the stage through a flaming table.

The match ends when Kyle O'Reilly, who took the most damage, puts Jon Moxley in a submission and FINALLY, AFTER THREE WEEKS, Jon Moxley taps out to Kyle O'Reilly.

Order of Entry:

Darby Allin

Wheeler Yuta

Orange Cassidy

Daniel Garcia

Roddy Strong

Claudio Castagnoli

Kyle O'Reilly

Jon Moxley

Mark Briscoe

WWE RAW Results 11-10-2025

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Triple H has officially declared John Cena the objective Greatest Wrestler of All Time by every single metric

John Cena has announces that his final event will be a WWE vs NXT Exhibition Event.

This was his personal wish.

  • DOM VS JOHN CENA FOR THE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP TONIGHT!!!!! RIGHT NOW!!!

John Cena says it's most important for him to leave behind a future in the WWE and to have one final stop in Boston.

He watched his first WWF show(yes he said WWF) at the old Boston Garden. And he wants to say goodbye at the TD Garden. But he's interrupted by Dominik Mysterio!!!

Dom says he interrupts old men like John Cena all the time, he doesn't care. It's not about him or Boston. He wants to know what Triple H is going to do about what happened to Dom last week.

Dom says Cena needs to shut up and let the grown folks do business or he's going to put him down.

FINE SPEECH

But Cena thinks Dom forgot who he was talking to and where he was at. In any other city, Dom might have a chance. But in Boston? John Cena is invincible.

Wrong time. Wrong place. Wrong guy.

Dom says any time. Any place. Any era. He would've beaten John Cena. Triple H agrees.

🚨🚨John Cena is officially a Grand Slam Champion 🚨🚨

  • WWE Intercontinental Championship: John Cena def. Dom Mysterio

The referee goes down. Cena gets Dom to tap out. No ref. Cena hits an AA, ref comes to the ring but it takes too long. Dom kicks out at 2.

Dom hits the 619, then a Frog Splash which Cena rolls through for the classic FU.

Cena wins a Championship for the Last Time Ever ♥️


Rey Mysterio tells John Cena that Dom needed that ass whipping. Cena says nah, he's a great kid who just needed a lesson.


  • The Last Time is Now Tournament: Rusev def. Damian Priest

Rusev sticks his fingers in the burned eye injury Aleister Black caused and then hits a Matchka Kick for the win


Adam Pearce wants to know if AJ Styles and Dragon Lee have a name. Dragon Lee offers The Dragons with Style, AJ says they'll work on it


Maxxine Dupri tells Adam Pearce that she's not ready but ready isn't a feeling, ready is a choice. Maxxine wants Becky.

Maxxine vs Becky for the Intercontinental Championship is on for next week in MSG.

As soon as Adam Pearce walks away, Becky attacks Maxxine.


CM Punk doesn't want to talk, he wants to fight. Logan Paul says he saw what the Vision did to Seth dead weight Rollins and he wants no part of that.

Logan says he's taking a hit to the face from Floyd Mayweather and it still didn't compare to what Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed did to him. Paul sees the Vision.

The Vision comes out to jump CM Punk but Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso appeared to even the odds!!!


Nikki Bella just betrayed Stephanie Vaquer

  • WWE Women's Championship: Stephanie Vaquer def. Raquel Rodriguez

Post match Roxanne attacks Stephanie, Nikki saves Vaquer then attacks her and strips off her red shirt, revealing a Black one.


WAR GAMES is officially on.

CM Punk, Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso vs the Vision.

There will likely be more teammates announced soon.


  • Last Time is Now Tournament: Sheamus def. Shinsuke Nakamura

Pretty good match that's ends when Sheamus finds a good spot to hit his Brogue Kick


🚨BREAKING🚨 Gunther vs. Je'Von Evans announced for the Last Time is Now Tournament!!

Also announced, Solo Sikoa vs. Mystery Opponent!


Nia Jax and Lash Legend have cost Charlotte and Alexa Bliss the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships

  • WWE Women's Tag Team Championships: Asuka and Kairi Sane def. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss(c)

Charlotte and Alexa had the win until Lash and Nia interfered.

🚨🚨WOMEN'S WAR GAMES🚨🚨

Iyo, Rhea, Alexa, Charlotte vs Asuka, Kairi, Lash Legend and Nia Jax!!!

Alexa, Kairi, Nia and Lash are jumping Charlotte and Alexa when Iyo and Rhea run out to make the save. They clear the ring and then Rhea makes the challenge to end the show.

WWE Smackdown Results 11-07-2025

Jonathan EscuderoComment

Cody Rhodes vs Aleister Black is the main event of Smackdown!!!!

An old Rivalry has been reignited!!!

Cody Rhodes opens Smackdown by immediately explaining that Drew McIntyre was the one who introduced the belt into the title match at Saturday Nights Main Event.

Cody says he HAD TO pull the trigger that way because Drew is dangerous. Cody is moving on now. He's going to sit in the crowd and figure out who's the next contender for the WWE Championship.

Suddenly Aleister Black interrupted, Zelina Vega gets in the ring and slaps Cody Rhodes. Nick Aldis makes the main event official.


Tomasso Ciampa has answered Ilja Dragunov's US Championship Open Challenge again!!! This time he's absolutely challenged Ilja for the title.

Ilja Dragunov agrees!!! He will defend the US Championship... Against JOHNNY GARGANO 💀

  • WWE US CHAMPIONSHIP OPEN CHALLENGE: Ilja Dragunov def Johnny Gargano

Great match that ends when Ilja hits a suplex on Gargano from the Apron to the inside of the ring followed by an H Bomb.


"I'm here to put MY BALLS in your hand."

-R Truth to Nick Aldis

R Truth wants into the Last Time is Now Tournament and Nick Aldis is trying to tell him that he's already in the tournament. But Truth doesn't seem to understand this. Eventually he decided he didn't want his balls touching Nick Aldis' balls anyway


🚨🚨Charlotte Flair vs Jade Cargill is imminent 🚨🚨

Jade Cargill is out for a quick mic drop to warn the Women's Locker Room that their fate is the same as Tiffany's.

On her way out, she's interrupted by Charlotte Flair! They have a stare down. Jade doesn't leave when Charlotte does her entrance pose.

Alexa Bliss has to stop Charlotte from going back to fight Jade.


  • NIA JAX DEF. CHARLOTTE FLAIR

Lash Legend appears out of nowhere and chokes out Alexa Bliss, distracting Charlotte allowing Nia Jax to take her out.

Lash Legend has officially been called up as Nia Jax’ Tag Team Championships


The latest matches officially announced for ‘The Last Time is Now Tournament’:

• The Miz vs. Jey Uso

• LA Knight vs. a surprise opponent


Nia Jax says Alexa and Charlotte told her to go find a friend but they didn't know she already had one.

Nia Jax became friends with Lash after their match on NXT. Lash Legend says this is just the beginning for them.


  • Chelsea Green def Giulia to win the United States Championship

The Canadian Mixed Tag Team Champions now hold a US and a North American and Mexican Championship.

🇨🇦🇺🇸🇲🇽


  • Talla Tonga def Rey Fenix

Talla Tonga beats down Rey Fenix for 98% of the match then wins with a powerbomb and a chokeslam

Post match Sami Zayn runs out to save Rey Fenix from another beat down.


Cody Rhodes vs Aleister Black goes to a no contest after Drew McIntyre attacks referee Dan Engler.

Cody attacks Drew. Black helps Drew fight back. Damian Priest runs out but gets poked in his burned eye by Black. Then Nick Aldis announced Drew McIntyre has been suspended!