UFC vs WWE All You Need To Know About The New Deal
In a historic turn of events, the worlds of professional wrestling and mixed martial arts (MMA) have collided as WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) merge under the banner of TKO Group Holdings. This monumental shift marks a transformative moment in the realm of sports entertainment. Vince McMahon’s Continuity and New Ownership Dynamics Vince McMahon, the iconic figure synonymous with WWE, remains a central figure in this merger. He not only retains his position as the executive chairman of WWE but also secures a substantial 16% ownership stake in the newly formed company. This bold move reaffirms McMahon’s unwavering commitment to shaping the future of sports entertainment. TKO Group Holdings: A New Powerhouse Emerges The merged entity, known as TKO Group Holdings, is set to make waves in the industry. Perhaps most notably, it will become a publicly traded company, with shares available on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “TKO. This decision effectively places a staggering valuation of $21 billion on the newly formed conglomerate, underscoring the confidence of investors in its potential. Leadership Transition: A Blend of Experience The leadership structure of TKO Group Holdings brings together a formidable team of individuals with deep-rooted expertise in both entertainment and sports. Ari Emanuel, renowned for his role as co-CEO of Endeavour Group Holdings Inc., assumes the position of CEO, adding his considerable influence to the venture. Dana White, the long-standing face of the UFC, retains his role as president of the UFC within the new organization. Meanwhile, Vince McMahon takes on the mantle of executive chairman, further solidifying his role as a pivotal player in this merger. Navigating Legal Challenges Prior to this merger, Vince McMahon found himself facing a slew of legal challenges that made headlines in 2022. Federal agents executed a search warrant as part of an investigation, raising eyebrows about McMahon’s potential involvement in questionable activities. It’s important to note that no formal charges were ever filed. Nevertheless, WWE conducted an internal investigation into alleged substantial payments to women associated with the company, leading to McMahon personally reimbursing WWE a substantial $17.4 million for expenses incurred during this investigation. A Promising Future for Sports Entertainment As TKO Group Holdings steps into the spotlight, the world of sports entertainment stands at the cusp of a new beginning. With Vince McMahon, Ari Emanuel, and Dana White at the helm, this merger is poised to bring forth groundbreaking developments and opportunities that will reshape the industry. The synergy between the worlds of professional wrestling and MMA promises to captivate audiences worldwide. The Expansion of WWE’s Universe One of the most exciting prospects of this merger is the potential for cross-promotion and crossover events. WWE’s scripted storylines and larger-than-life characters could seamlessly blend with the UFC’s high-stakes, real-world competition. This fusion has the potential to create captivating narratives and rivalries that transcend traditional boundaries, attracting a broader audience base. The Financial Implications The merger’s financial implications are far-reaching. As a publicly traded entity, TKO Group Holdings will have access to substantial capital, enabling investments in production quality, talent acquisition, and global expansion. This influx of resources could lead to enhanced fan experiences and a more extensive reach for both WWE and UFC content. Global Impact TKO Group Holdings also has the potential to become a global powerhouse in sports entertainment. WWE’s international reach, coupled with UFC’s global fanbase, positions the new entity for exponential growth in international markets. This expansion could open doors to new partnerships, television deals, and live events in regions previously untouched by the two organisations. A Fusion of Legacies The merger of WWE and UFC into TKO Group Holdings signifies the convergence of two iconic legacies in the world of sports and entertainment. With Vince McMahon’s unwavering commitment, Ari Emanuel’s business acumen, and Dana White’s passion for MMA, the industry is poised for a thrilling evolution. While challenges remain, the potential for innovation, cross-promotion, and global expansion paints an exciting future for sports entertainment fans worldwide. Brace yourselves for the dawn of a new era in the world of TKO Group Holdings.
Who Is Chucky? All You Need To Know Why He ‘Killed’ WWE Superstar Liv Morgan
WWE Superstar Liv Morgan once had a surprising encounter with Charles Lee Ray on an episode of the horror series “Chucky.” Fans of sports entertainment were thrilled to see her make a cameo on the show, but many may be wondering who she is. Liv Morgan, whose real name is Gionna Jene Daddio, started her wrestling journey humbly. She and her brothers created a makeshift wrestling ring in the backyard of their New Jersey home when she was young. While she doesn’t recommend or endorse performing wrestling moves without proper training, her passion for the sport eventually led her to pursue a career in athletics. In 2014, Morgan signed with WWE as part of the NXT brand. She stayed true to her New Jersey roots, never backing down from a fight. Her determination and grit paid off when she made her debut on SmackDown, where she faced some of the most dynamic female Superstars in the business. During her time in WWE, Morgan faced the challenge of breaking into the industry during what’s known as the “Four Horsewomen era,” with fan-favorite Superstars like Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, and Bayley. Despite not coming from a wrestling legacy, Morgan gained support from her fans and made a name for herself. In 2022, Morgan had a career-defining moment when she won the Money In The Bank event. She climbed the ladder and secured the coveted briefcase, which she used to cash in on SmackDown Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey, defeating her and becoming the champion herself. She held the title for 98 days until a narrow defeat in an Extreme Rules match. Despite setbacks, Liv Morgan has consistently shown her resilience and determination throughout her career. Liv Morgan’s journey from backyard wrestling to WWE stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. Her story embodies the essence of hard work, dedication, and passion. She didn’t come from a wrestling dynasty or have famous family connections, but her determination and the unwavering support of her fans propelled her to success. She always bounces back, much like her recent on-screen encounter with Chucky. Reflecting on her experience joining the Chucky franchise, Morgan found it surprisingly familiar, likening it to her experiences in WWE. The setting, the cameras, and the backstage environment felt similar to what she was accustomed to in the wrestling world. The surprising crossover into the world of “Chucky” brought a new dimension to Liv Morgan’s career. Despite the horror-themed setting, she found the experience oddly familiar, drawing parallels between the world of professional wrestling and the production of a TV series. The familiarity with cameras, backstage routines, and the high-pressure environment seemed to have prepared her for this unexpected venture. As for Chucky’s motivation for targeting Liv Morgan on the show remains shrouded in mystery. It’s an enigma that might be unraveled in the upcoming season of “Chucky,” keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
3 Potential NXT Superstars Who Can Beat Roman Reigns
For years, there was a clamor for Roman Reigns to turn heel in WWE. The company persisted with him as a babyface, but fans just weren’t interested in him as a conquering hero. As “The Big Dog,” Reigns came across as milquetoast and lacked personality. His character was shallow, and he struggled to connect with the audience. For example, a program meant to pass the torch from The Undertaker to Reigns was reduced to a grudge match over who could claim the ring as their “yard.” However, Reigns’ heel persona has been a remarkable success. As the Tribal Chief, he exudes the presence of a mafia family head and is arguably the most compelling character in professional wrestling. Thanks to Paul Heyman, Reigns’ promos have been exceptional, and his matches carry more gravitas than ever. Surrounding himself with The Usos and Paul Heyman has been a perfect move, and WWE has booked him as the top star in the promotion. With all this momentum behind Roman Reigns, it’s crucial that the performer who eventually dethrones him is carefully booked and someone fans can rally behind. Here are three current WWE NXT Superstars who could realistically dethrone Roman Reigns: #3 The Current NXT Champ – Carmelo Hayes Carmelo Hayes has rapidly ascended in NXT, making a name for himself as the NXT Champion. His combination of in-ring prowess and heelish arrogance has garnered attention. Since his debut in June, he’s won the Breakout tournament and the North American title, To challenge Roman Reigns, Hayes would need to continue evolving his character and honing his skills. A future feud between Hayes and Reigns could revolve around Hayes’ youthful confidence and ambition clashing with Reigns’ established dominance. Their rivalry could showcase the clash of generations, making for a compelling storyline. #2 Ilja Dragunov Ilja Dragunov, a Russian-born German wrestler, is one of NXT’s most promising talents & as a former NXT UK World Champion, Dragunov has proven himself as a top-tier competitor. Despite his readiness to move up to WWE’s main roster, the call hasn’t come. At just 29 years old, Dragunov has the physical abilities and potential character and mic skills to become a key player in WWE. A potential feud could focus on Dragunov’s unwavering determination and resilience against Reigns’ power and calculated aggression. Dragunov’s background and unique persona would provide a fresh and intriguing dynamic in the feud. Ilja Dragunov’s intense wrestling style and international experience could position him as a credible challenger to Roman Reigns. He could be a formidable opponent for Roman Reigns. #1 Bron Breakker Bron Breakker, coming from a legendary wrestling family, is one of WWE’s most impressive athletes and a two-time NXT Champion. His hype and potential have led many to see him as a future megastar. His athleticism, charisma, and ability to carry himself like a main eventer set him apart. In a storyline against Roman Reigns, Breakker’s youth and potential could be framed as a passing of the torch moment. The clash of two powerhouse athletes with strong wrestling pedigrees would be a marquee matchup. Breakker’s promo skills, reminiscent of his uncle Scott Steiner, make him a strong candidate to dethrone Roman Reigns. Honorable mention: Tyler Bate, if built properly, could also be a contender to dethrone Reigns. Despite his size, Bate possesses incredible athleticism, resilience, and an indomitable spirit. These three NXT Superstars, Carmelo Hayes, Ilja Dragunov, and Bron Breakker, each bring unique qualities to the table that could lead to captivating storylines and memorable battles with Roman Reigns in the future. The key will be in WWE’s storytelling and their ability to build these talents into credible challengers for the Universal Championship. Wrestling fans can anticipate exciting developments as these rising stars continue their journeys within the WWE Universe. According to you, there may be others on the current NXT roster with the potential to do so as well. Who are they? Comment Below.
WWE NXT Preview And Prediction: How, When And Where To Watch In USA, Europe And India – 12th September 2023
The air is thick with anticipation as the September 12, 2023, episode of WWE NXT is set to be aired live from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. As the wrestling community buzzes with excitement, we’re on the edge of our seats with four matches confirmed for the show, featuring a championship main event, a #1 Contender’s match, and a continuation of the Global Heritage Cup Invitational tournament. Diving deep into the card, the NXT Women’s Championship storyline has seen a recent flurry of activity. Tiffany Stratton, the reigning NXT Women’s Champion, boasted of her championship glory during a recent celebration, where she ambitiously claimed her place alongside former champions like Becky Lynch. However, in a twist of events, Becky responded on Twitter, asserting that she’s never clinched the NXT Women’s Championship. This digital face-off escalated to a real one when Becky confronted Tiffany backstage, hinting at her keen observance of Tiffany’s past performances. Following a successful defense by Tiffany, Becky issued a challenge for a match. The two wrestlers then had a contract signing on Raw, officially setting the stage for this week’s NXT showdown. Rumor mills suggest that Becky Lynch might just overthrow Tiffany Stratton and clinch the NXT Women’s Championship for the first time. Another exciting face-off to watch out for is the #1 Contender’s Match between Ilja Dragunav and Wes Lee. After both fell short against Carmelo Hayes in their respective NXT Championship attempts, the two are now set to tussle for another shot at Hayes, possibly at No Mercy. Speculation is rife that this bout might conclude in a no-contest, potentially leading to a Triple Threat Match at No Mercy with Carmelo Hayes. Keeping up the momentum, the NXT Global Heritage Cup Invitational Tournament is gearing up for two thrilling matches. Representing England, Tyler Bate will take on Spain’s Axiom in Group A. Both wrestlers will strive to ascend the points table, with their eyes set on facing Naom Dar for the NXT Global Heritage Cup at NXT No Mercy. The prevailing sentiment in the wrestling community hints at a win for Tyler Bate. On the other hand, Group B will witness Nathan Frazer of the Jersey Islands locking horns with Japan’s Akira Tozawa. After their respective losses in the previous bouts, both are eager for redemption. However, predictions indicate Nathan Frazer might emerge victorious. As global fans eagerly await these matches, the question of ‘where to watch’ becomes paramount. For those in India, WWE NXT is slated for a live telecast every Wednesday morning at 5.30 AM. The gripping action can be caught on TV channels Sony Ten 1 and Sony Ten 1 HD. Premium users are in for a treat as they can stream the event live on the WWE Network. Additionally, platforms like Sony Liv, Jio TV, and Airtel TV are offering free online streaming. For passionate wrestling fans in the United States, including territories like American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marian Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the WWE Network content will be exclusively available on Peacock. Meanwhile, Canadian enthusiasts can subscribe through their local cable providers or opt for streaming on Sportsnet NOW. As the clock ticks closer to the event, predictions, expectations, and speculations are at an all-time high. Whether these predictions come to fruition or are countered by unexpected turns, one thing is certain – the world will be watching.
3 Matches That Can Be Added In Tonight’s Episode Of WWE NXT – 12th September 2023
In the ever-evolving world of sports entertainment, WWE continues to make strides to ensure the utmost excitement for its vast fanbase. The wrestling behemoth, in its latest move, has brought star power from Monday Night Raw into the WWE NXT realm, turning up the temperature and undoubtedly ensuring gripping viewership for upcoming episodes. There’s been significant buzz about WWE’s intentions with NXT. The yellow and black brand is no longer perceived as just the developmental platform for future stars but is being propelled into the spotlight as a legitimate third brand of the company. The latest episode only solidified this claim. Last week’s episode was electrifying, as Tiffany Stratton demonstrated her prowess by successfully defending her NXT Women’s Championship against the formidable Kiana James. The bout saw the champion display sheer tenacity and resilience, particularly when she countered Kiana’s deadly 401 finisher. However, Stratton’s wily tactics and her signature Prettiest Moonsault Ever sealed the deal, ensuring her championship remained intact. But her celebration was cut short by an unexpected turn of events. Enter Becky Lynch, the only wrestler to have both Raw and Smackdown Championships to her name. Lynch, with her audacious flair, took center stage and threw down the gauntlet. Making it abundantly clear that while she may have several accolades under her belt, the NXT Women’s Title remains elusive. “The Man,” as Lynch is popularly known, was ready to come around, and she chose Stratton as her next target. This epic face-off was quickly solidified and will now headline tonight’s episode of WWE NXT. While the showdown between Stratton and Lynch is expected to draw in a significant viewership, the WWE officials are not stopping there. NXT Champion, Carmelo Hayes, has set the stage for an intense competition between Wes Lee and Ilja Dragunov. Both fighters will go toe-to-toe, with the prize being a shot at Hayes’ coveted NXT Championship at the highly anticipated NXT No Mercy 2023. This one-on-one clash is expected to be a high-octane affair, with both competitors bringing their unique styles and strengths to the squared circle. The stakes couldn’t be higher for Dominik, as there’s news about his next title defense waiting in the wings for a later announcement this month. Given the recent upsurge in competition and the pedigree of the contenders in NXT, one can only speculate on who Dominik might be facing, but rest assured, it’s going to be a match for the ages. Furthermore, the WWE NXT landscape is set to undergo another transformation with the introduction of the Global Heritage Invitational Tournament. This tournament promises to blend different wrestling styles, giving fans a glimpse of both technical and high-flying maneuvers. Tonight’s episode will feature Tyler Bate taking on Axiom, a clash that promises to display a technical wrestling clinic. Moreover, in another exhilarating match-up, Akira Tozawa will square off against Nathan Frazer. Both athletes are known for their agility and unique in-ring styles, promising a spectacle for the NXT Universe. To top it all off, the victor of the Heritage Cup Invitational will eventually earn the chance to lock horns with the reigning cup holder, Noam Dar, in a title bout at NXT No Mercy. To say that WWE is pulling out all the stops for tonight’s episode would be an understatement. They’re reshaping the landscape, raising the stakes, and introducing dynamite matchups. Whether it’s the quest for a missing accolade by Becky Lynch or the hunger of up-and-comers aiming for the top prize, WWE NXT is turning into an explosive concoction of action and drama. In essence, the September 12 episode of WWE NXT is not just another episode; it’s a testament to the brand’s evolution and WWE’s commitment to providing unmatched entertainment. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newbie to the wrestling world, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.
Nia Jax Makes Her Shocking Return At WWE Raw, Takes Out Rhea Ripley
WWE Raw witnessed a breathtaking turn of events as the arena came alive with the unexpected return of Nia Jax. Not seen since her stint at this year’s Women’s Royal Rumble in January, the WWE Universe was left in suspense as Jax stormed the ring. The main event was at its zenith as Rhea Ripley faced off against Raquel Rodriguez for the Women’s World Championship. When it seemed like the match was nearing its conclusion, Jax emerged from the shadows, ambushing Rodriguez outside the ring. Initially, her interference appeared to favor Ripley, giving the champion an edge. But as the dust settled, and the two giants met eye-to-eye inside the squared circle, Jax’s real intentions became clear. To the shock of fans and viewers alike, Jax unleashed her fury on Ripley, leaving the Women’s World Champion reeling. The cacophony of boos and jeers echoed throughout the arena as the screen faded to black. Jax’s surprise comeback was particularly significant given her absence from WWE since the Royal Rumble. The wrestling community had been rife with speculation after she hinted at a potential return in recent weeks. Now, it’s evident that her sights are set on the top prize, presenting a formidable challenge for the reigning champion, Ripley. Many fans will recall the roller-coaster year Jax had in 2021. After a memorable separation from her tag team partner, Shayna Baszler, Jax took a step back from the spotlight. Her sudden departure from WWE in November 2021 took many by surprise. As rumors and speculations swirled, Jax herself later clarified that her release was rooted in her decision not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. This unexpected turn in her career left many wondering if and when she would ever step into the ring again. Looking back at her illustrious journey in the WWE, Jax’s evolution as a performer has been nothing short of remarkable. Starting her journey in WWE NXT, she quickly carved a niche for herself with her powerful in-ring presence and charisma, eventually earning a spot on WWE’s main roster shows, Raw and SmackDown. Throughout her tenure, she clinched numerous accolades, including the WWE Raw Women’s Championship and winning the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship twice with Baszler. Beyond her championships, Jax has been a part of several memorable moments and feuds that will be etched in the annals of WWE history. Who could forget her intense rivalries with Alexa Bliss and Ronda Rousey? One unforgettable episode saw her inadvertently give Becky Lynch a bloody nose, a scene which skyrocketed Lynch’s popularity, turning her into an overnight sensation. Behind the scenes, sources close to the situation have spilled some intriguing beans. Fightful Select recently reported that Jax had already inked a deal with WWE over a month ago. Interestingly, this signing marked one of the first major personnel moves since Vince McMahon’s recent reassertion of control earlier this year. Some insiders even believed that Jax might have made her return sooner, but her appearance at WWE Raw confirmed the timeline. Jax’s return promises a new chapter of thrilling storylines and intense matchups for the WWE Universe. With Ripley holding the Women’s World Championship and Jax clearly indicating her intentions, fans can eagerly anticipate the battles that lie ahead. As the events unfold in the coming weeks, one thing is certain: the WWE Women’s division is in for a wild ride.
WWE Raw Result And Report For September 11: Highlights, Match Ratings, Winners And Losers
The September 11th episode of Monday Night Raw takes place at the Norfolk Scope in Norfolk, Virginia. The packed stadium witnessed the onset of dominance as the Ring General marched down to address his admirers, only to be interrupted by Olympian Chad Gable. The jaw-dropping action on the card kept the fans on their feet the whole night. The action that unfolded is as follows: The match began, and right away, the strength of Damien Priest became evident. The pure aggression and size of this laser-focused superstar are what keep Judgement Day protected from any hiccups. The match then went to a technical battle between Jey Uso and Finn Balor. The remaining hesitation, if any, was cleared when KO entered the action. Remember, this is the same Kevin Owens who has already done the India tour and returned in time for the match. The match was pretty even, but the constant attention from Dirty Dom and the teamwork of Judgement Day allowed Balor to pick up the win after a beautiful coup de grace. Winners: The Judgement Day The A-Lister is definitely not a crowd favourite, but he certainly got the crowd going when The Miz gave up an early lead and allowed Tozawa to deliver a combination of icks. But the most must-see WWE superstar left no hope after connecting with the skull-crushing finale to pick up the win. Winner: The Miz The Scottish Warrior proved too strong for Xavier Woods and taught the latter a lesson. McIntyre pretty much set the pace and ended all hopes of a comeback for Woods after the Big Man hit Woods with a Claymore to pick up the win. Winner: Drew McIntyre Shayna Baszler is known for giving squash matches, and she has garnered a reputation that is going to bother her future opponents. Baszler made quick work of Chelsea Green and was confronted later by Zoey Stark. Winner: Shayna Baszler The 6-man tag match was filled with twists and turns. The match saw the great in-ring chemistry of Ludwig Kaiser, Giovanni Vinci, and the man they all came to see, Gunther. Despite that, resilience paid off, and the Ring General couldn’t stop Vinci from submitting and tapping out to Chad Gable. Winners: Alpha Academy and Tomasso Ciampa The WWE Women’s World Championship was on the line for this one. A feud that has got everyone in the locker room speaking. Rhea Ripley, for the first time in months, looked very vulnerable. An evenly contested bout that went out of the ring saw a returning Nia Jax interfere. Nia Jax took out Rodriguez and left the crowd in utter disbelief. Before she could settle, Mami hit Raquel Rodriguez with a big kick followed by a rip tide. Winner: Rhea Ripley
3 Reasons Why Nia Jax Vs Rhea Ripley Will Be A Cinematic Match At WWE Fastlane 2023
WWE RAW witnessed a shocking return that promises a significant shakeup in the Women’s division. Nia Jax, the dominant force from yesteryears, made a striking re-entry and interfered in the Women’s World Championship main event. With a match between Nia Jax and Rhea Ripley likely at WWE Fastlane 2023, fans are buzzing about the potential of it being cinematic. Below, we delve into the reasons fueling this speculation. Nia Jax wasn’t just any competitor during her initial run in WWE. She had an impactful presence in Triple H’s NXT version, where she was built as an unstoppable force. Upon her move to the main roster, her path of dominance continued. Nia has been a tag team champion and even held the coveted RAW Women’s Championship. While her role in NXT saw her decimating opponents like Lana and Amber Moon, her main roster presence also contributed to pivotal storylines. Fans might recall how she was inadvertently responsible for Becky Lynch’s skyrocketing momentum between 2018-2019. Given her history, WWE might be exploring the idea of a cinematic match to highlight her strengths and the larger-than-life aura she carries. No one can deny that the women’s roster on the red brand needs a refresh. While SmackDown’s women’s division has thrived, RAW has lagged behind in terms of compelling storylines and fierce rivalries. Nia Jax’s return might be WWE’s answer to this imbalance. By bringing back a dominant competitor like Nia, WWE has the chance to reframe narratives in both singles and tag team divisions. Her arrival sends a strong message to the locker room and the WWE Universe. The stakes have risen, and the landscape is changing. An intriguing cinematic showdown between Jax and Ripley at Fastlane could be the reset button the red brand needs, bringing back the unpredictability and high stakes the audience craves. The current events surrounding the Women’s World Championship main event on RAW could set the stage for some intricate storylines leading up to Fastlane. With Dominik Mysterio’s interference at Payback leading to Raquel Rodriguez’s failure against Rhea Ripley, and him subsequently being barred from ringside in the subsequent matches, the narrative was ripe for a twist. WWE capitalized on this, using Dominik’s absence as the perfect window to reintroduce Nia Jax. With her interference, a potential feud between Raquel Rodriguez and Nia Jax is on the horizon. This allows WWE to shift the spotlight momentarily from the Rhea-Raquel rivalry, giving it time to simmer and build anticipation. A cinematic match between Nia and Rhea at Fastlane could serve multiple purposes. It could elevate the prestige of the Women’s title, provide a fresh direction for RAW’s women’s division, and allow other storylines, like the one between Raquel and Nia, to develop concurrently. The stage is set for WWE Fastlane 2023, and if speculations are to be believed, fans might be in for a treat with a cinematic showdown between Nia Jax and Rhea Ripley. Given Jax’s dominant history, the need for a fresh direction in RAW’s women’s division, and the intricate web of storylines we’re seeing, this match could be one of the highlights of the year. One thing’s for sure – with Nia Jax back in the picture, the WWE Universe is in for some captivating twists and turns.
3 Positive Takeaways From WWE Raw – 11th September 2023
Welcome to Wrestling Inc.’s weekly review of “WWE Raw”, the show that fans worldwide can’t seem to resist, regardless of the season. The mid-September Monday night episode of “Raw” was notably lengthy, leaving viewers feeling every tick of the clock. The anticipation was palpable; this episode marked the end of the McMahon ownership era. The Wrestling Inc. crew, like many, had mixed feelings. Some moments left them indifferent, such as Nia Jax’s return. But as with any episode of WWE, there are moments to love, and the crew has pinpointed three standouts. The opening segment set the stage. It began with Jey Uso and Kevin Owens, a scene all too familiar to WWE fans. The predictability of the event was a drawback; as Judgment Day entered, it was clear where the storyline would lead. The impending match against Uso and Owens was foreseen, as was the result, with Judgment Day’s win emerging due to Uso and Owens’ lack of teamwork. Yet, this narrative arc still has much to offer. It is the continuation of the emotional narrative that started the previous week with Sami Zayn’s forgiveness toward Jey. Kevin Owens’ promo highlighted his understanding of redemption and that Jey still had a lot to achieve. Owens’ decision to give Jey a chance, only to face disappointment, fit perfectly. The entire sequence adds depth to Jey’s story, making every bit of sense. This was a refreshing contrast to the rather convoluted storyline surrounding his brother on “SmackDown”. However, it wasn’t just Jey’s narrative that intrigued fans. Drew McIntyre, a staple of WWE, surprised viewers with a new twist to his character. Encounters with Xavier Woods and Jey Uso set the tone for future storylines. McIntyre’s face-off with Woods led to a match which he won, and the animosity with Uso foreshadows an upcoming bout. With prior episodes building tension between McIntyre, Kofi Kingston, and Matt Riddle, there’s a significant indication of what might come next: a potential heel turn for McIntyre. This shift is timely. Since his victory at the Royal Rumble match in January 2020, McIntyre’s character had remained fairly consistent. His menace, despite his role as the ‘good guy’, has been palpable. But with the hints dropped during the recent episode, fans can expect McIntyre to unleash the darker, heel side of his character soon. Apart from these two intriguing storylines, there was another aspect that salvaged the episode: the riveting face-offs between Chad Gable and GUNTHER. Their interactions injected life into what was otherwise perceived as a humdrum episode. GUNTHER’s championship celebration speech took a twist when he accused Gable of being an inadequate father, leading to Gable’s fierce retaliation. The subsequent brawls culminated in a six-man tag match that can arguably be called the highlight of the evening. With Gable securing a win over Imperium, the path seems set for a fourth face-off between GUNTHER and Gable for the Intercontinental title. Speculations are rife that Gable might finally get his due, given that GUNTHER now holds the record previously secured by the Honky Tonk Man. But the episode left some unanswered questions, mainly revolving around Tommaso Ciampa’s sudden alignment with Gable. The unexpected pairing led to wild speculations, with some hoping for a return of Johnny Gargano, possibly as a heel. In summary, while the episode had its lows, it certainly wasn’t devoid of highs. From Jey’s continuing redemption arc and Drew McIntyre’s potential character twist to the thrilling Gable-GUNTHER rivalry, WWE Raw left fans with enough to ponder and look forward to. As the McMahon era draws to a close, there’s a unanimous hope that the WWE universe continues to serve episodes as layered and complex as this one.
Matt Hardy Reveals 9/11 Attack Memories Back In The Locker Room, Says ‘Everyone was looking Blanked, Except Vince McMahon’
Today marks 22 years since one of the most memorable terrorist attacks of all time. September 11 is remembered by Americans and the entire world for the massacre of the Twin Towers in New York. That same week, a new episode of SmackDown was recorded, a show that finally aired live on television two days later. Most WWE talents did not know if the event was going to be held that week. Matt Hardy was one of them. The former tag team champion spoke about this matter as the centrepiece of the latest edition of his podcast “The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy”. Where he detailed some interesting moments that occurred that day in the WWE locker room. Matt admitted that he was scared and that he just wanted to go back to his house, but Vince McMahon encouraged his workers not to give up and continue as normal. “I remember we were waiting and thinking, ‘What’s going to happen?’ Because we had SmackDown in Houston, Texas,” Hardy stated. “That happened at 9 or 10 o’clock, which is when the planes hit the buildings, right? First thing in the morning. Our call time is noon, 1 o’clock. We were like, ‘ What’s going to happen to the program?’ We were trying to figure it out, and then the company sent an email and several text messages. And they said, ‘We’re not sure what we’re going to do; everyone’s on hold. Everyone’s on hold. We’ll have an answer.’ for this afternoon’”. “So we didn’t know if the show was going on. And then obviously everything shut down, so the show couldn’t happen. I remember me and Jeff Hardy just wanted to go home. I just wanted to get home and “To be with my father, to be with my family, because we didn’t know anything. And everyone was the same. Shane Helms too. Nobody knew what was happening or what was going to happen… Everyone wanted to go home.” “Vince is a human being who is not afraid. He was not afraid of those things. There were a lot of worried people and thought that we might be a new target since we were the first public meeting. I felt that way. It was very strange “I was very worried that day, but Vince had his mind made up. He was like, ‘No one’s stopping me, no one’s stopping World Wrestling Entertainment, and we’re going to do the show, damn it.’” Despite Matt Hardy’s statements, not everyone liked WWE’s decision. In 2021, Rob Van Dam remembered that day in an interview and thought it was not a good idea. “I think WWE was eager to get to work. I remember thinking it was a horrible idea. Those terrorists wanted to hit America in its heart, What better way than a stadium full of people living on television watching wrestling professionally free, What is the most American thing there is? I think we were not at all safe performing in front of all those people. The SmackDown show continued. The main event that night was a fight between Kurt Angle and Rhyno. After the live broadcast, The Rock defeated Steve Austin by disqualification in the dark match. Vince McMahon was the last to appear to give a speech to everyone present, encouraging American society not to be afraid, to continue fighting for their rights and to continue with their lives normally.
