It is not uncommon to see athletes try their hand at different sports, but in this case, we have a unique transformation.
We have wrestlers who are known for their impressive knockouts, stunt jumps, and entertaining fights in the ring, who transition to a more calming place of training horses. Well, equestrian sports have that magic to peruse athletes from different sports whether it is only for investing in horse racing, to a full stable management.
We have professional soccer players and trainers who went on to become racehorse owners, tennis players who also became racehorse owners, and there are some wrestlers who also changed their minds and careers into horse racing.
To be honest, there aren’t many wrestlers who transitioned from WWE to becoming a racehorse trainer, but there are many of them who love horse racing as a sport, or enjoy being around horses in their free time.
In today’s article, we will dive deeper into the world of wrestlers and try to find athletes who managed to do the unthinkable. Transition to horse racing trainers.
Frank Miller
Coming from Louisville, it is not surprising to see that Frank Miller has become a racehorse trainer. After all, we are talking about the home of the Kentucky Derby. A place where they live and breathe horse racing.
Most people when Kentucky is mentioned immediately think of handicapping the Kentucky Derby, and it was probably the same case with Frank Miller.
But back to Frank Miller. How does a pro wrestler with 20 years of experience in the industry transition to becoming a racehorse trainer? Despite being a wrestler, Miller shared a passion for horses from a young age and always knew that this was something that he would love doing for the rest of his life.
From a young age, he spent a lot of time around horses, and his grandfather took him to the track every day.
But how did a kid who spent most of his life around horses get into wrestling?
Well, at a young age, he found out that Danny Davis was starting a wrestling school in the area, and he decided to join. After a few successful trainings, he decided to pursue a wrestling career and got the nickname Trailer Park Trash. He held the OVW heavyweight title and was a six-time tag team champ.
His wrestling career was quite impressive. Apart from wrestling locally, he also traveled all around the world including Mexico, Puerto Rico, and even Japan.
“We lived the lives of rock stars man, maybe on a different level we weren’t flying around on jets all the time but we still felt like rock stars and I wouldn’t give nothing I’ve done up,” Miller said.
But after pursuing both careers from 2008 up until 2013, he decided to hang up his boots and quit wrestling just so he could focus entirely on horse training.
“When I used to train wrestlers and a little bit of MMA, I use a lot of the same things I did in that with these horses because they’re not a whole lot different; the way you train, you keep them fit,” Miller said.
Johnny Love
With Johnny Love, we have a different story. He actually got interested in wrestling at a young age just from watching the ultimate wrestling stars on TV. But despite his passion for wrestling, this wasn’t the first career he chose.
In fact, he started by playing football for four years, then transitioned to baseball playing for Concordia College in St. Paul, but his passion for wrestling was ignited again when he joined the Eddie Sharkey wrestling camp.
Wrestling is an active sport, thus skill and athleticism are critical to a wrestler’s success. However, as Love stated, wrestling is more about being a good entertainer than it is about being a good wrestler. Each wrestling battle portrays a tale, with each contestant in the ring playing a role.
He had a rather successful wrestling career competing in the United States, Calgary, Alberta, and Europe. Love was living the life he always wanted, but as we know, when you live a high life, temptations will come.
Drugs and alcohol became so big of a problem for Love that he decided to change his career. But in life, when one door closes, another one opens. When he got back to the States, he opened a gym and that was his main source of income.
During that time, Love became interested in watching horse races. He spent years handicapping racehorses and even managed to nail a $36,000 pick at Hollywood Park in 2008. This is where his handicapper career started as he was hired by the Minneapolis Star Tribune, and since then he got involved in horse racing on a much deeper point.
He went on to purchase some shares in racehorses and owned a filly named Lil Zila, which was racing at Saratoga Racetrack in New York a few years ago.
So, as you can see, even wrestlers can soften their hard when exposed to too much horse racing. It is an attractive sport, not just because of the money, but also because of these incredible animals.
In an extensive interview published today on ESPN.COM, Mercedes Mone said that she signed with AEW because of the opportunity to create magic, not necessarily only in the company, but also expanding her brand in ways that it would not have been allowed in WWE.
“I’m all about creating history,” Mone said. “I’m all about creating magic, and I’m all about creating so much more. And that’s what AEW brings – so much more, more opportunity, more chances and more chances just to stand out and to be seen and noticed.”
WWE’s grip on talent is no secret and the former WWE and IWGP Women’s champion has built a brand, a brand which she owns in terms of trademarks, again, something that she would not have been allowed to continue as a WWE Superstar.
Mone didn’t hide the fact that the financial offer from AEW was good and it also played a part in her decision on where to go.
“I mean, I’m not Mercedes Mone for no reason,” she said. “Money changes everything. I’m always about that bag. Absolutely.”
But money aside, global domination is something that interests her and with AEW, she will have the freedom just for that.
“You can do so much more in AEW – you can do everything,” she continued. “And for me, I want to do everything. So, this is the place for me to be, and this is the place that I call home.”
Mone is believed to be the highest-earning female star in the industry today, with many seeing it as a positive for other women on either roster since it opens the possibility of stars like her demanding more money and be paid equally as their male counterparts.
A WWE original documentary on Bray Wyatt will be released on Peacock on April 1 ahead of WrestleMania week.
Titled Bray Wyatt: Becoming Immortal, the documentary will take you behind the scenes and in the world of one of the greatest minds that the industry has ever seen, with new sit-down interviews specifically shot for this documentary including with Triple H, John Cena, Braun Strowman, his sister Mika Rotunda, and his fiancee JoJo Offerman.
“Windham Rotunda had a brilliant mind. There was no wall he wouldn’t break down in the name of storytelling,” Triple H posted on X. “You had no choice but to believe in him. He was just that good. It’s time for his story to be the one that’s told.”
Bray Wyatt passed away unexpectedly this past August at the age of 36.
PWInsider.com is reporting that Asuka injured her knee during Friday Night Smackdown and was pulled from all weekend non-televised live events to be medically assessed.
At this point it’s unclear if Asuka’s injury will prevent her from wrestling or if it was a minor issue but it looks like the curse of the WWE Women’s Tag Team titles has struck again.
While Asuka and her tag team partner Kairi Sane don’t have a match at WrestleMania yet, it was rumored that the two, along with Dakota Kai, could be involved in a six-woman tag match against Bianca Belair, Naomi, and Jade Cargill.
If her injury will keep her out of the ring for an extended period of time, the tag team titles will once again be declared vacant, something that has happened very often over the last couple of years.
At a non-televised live event in North Charleston, South Carolina yesterday, Cody Rhodes made a promise to a young fan that he will be going to his fifth birthday party in a few months time.
After the main event match against Drew McIntyre, Cody took some time to inspect signs as he usually does and there was one that said, “Cody come to my fifth birthday party.”
Cody asked when is it and the response was June 25, which is a Wednesday.
“Okay, should I go to his birthday party?” Cody asked the fans, who of course said yes.
“Am I supposed to bring anything, a gift? I could bring a casserole. I’m supposed to bring a casserole to his 5th birthday which is gonna be on a Wednesday. North Charleston, should I do it?”
The fans cheered, but it was not enough for Cody, who asked again, and got a bigger response.
“My answer is…yes,” Cody said as the dad and son celebrated at ringside!
Rhodes keeps getting himself into these situations lately, with recently being part of a gender reveal and earlier this year agreeing to be the best man at a fan’s wedding as well which will take place this week!
Mercedes Mone’s newest theme song CEO has hit digital services such as Apple Music and Spotify.
The song, published under SoulNado House Record and Tape Club, is a remix of Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 with Mone doing the rapping herself. Perhaps you might recognize the song in wrestling as Gunther used it for most of his career when he wrestled as Walter and still has some hints of it in his new theme.
The “CEO” chants, which encourages fans in the arena to sing along, come part of the theme song as well.
The world of boxing finds itself amidst a resounding renaissance, with British fighters seizing an unprecedented prominence on the global stage. Central to this resurgence is the enigmatic figure of Tyson Fury. Beyond merely donning the gloves and stepping into the ring, Fury’s impact transcends the boundaries of the sport. As we embark on an exploration of his journey, it becomes glaringly apparent that Fury’s contributions extend far beyond the confines of the ropes, ultimately playing a pivotal role in reshaping the narrative of British fighters boxing on a global scale.
Background on British Boxing:
Before immersing ourselves in the captivating narrative of Tyson Fury, it is imperative to grasp the historical tapestry of British boxing. While the UK boasts a lineage of iconic pugilists, there existed a period when the international spotlight seemed to favor other nations. Names like Lennox Lewis and Frank Bruno laid the foundation, yet it was Tyson Fury who breathed new life into the sport’s image. Against the backdrop of a rich but sometimes overlooked legacy, Fury emerged as a transformative force, reinvigorating British boxing on the grand stage.
Tyson Fury’s Early Career in Boxing;
The inception of Tyson Fury’s professional boxing career marked the commencement of an era marked by transformation and promise. Originating from the vibrant city of Manchester, Tyson Fury’s fights and boxing journey from a budding, promising pugilist to a global heavyweight champion was nothing short of spectacular. His early career not only showcased an innate, raw talent but also provided glimpses of the greatness that would unfold in the chapters to come. If you’re curious about Tyson Fury’s boxing record, his journey from Manchester saw the genesis of a future icon whose ascent was both rapid and awe-inspiring. The boxing world witnessed the genesis of a future icon whose ascent was both rapid and awe-inspiring.
The Impact of Tyson Fury’s Success:
Tyson Fury’s success reverberates far beyond the squared circle, transcending the realm of personal victories to become symbolic milestones for British boxing. The defining moment in Fury’s career, an iconic clash against Wladimir Klitschko, stands as a testament to his extraordinary journey. This battle not only secured Fury the WBA, IBF, WBO, IBO, and The Ring magazine titles but also served as a watershed moment that thrust British boxing back into the global spotlight.
As a result of his consistent performances and numerous wins, Tyson Fury has ascended to the top of the British boxing rankings, solidifying his status as one of the best fighters in the UK. Tyson Fury’s career stats further underscore the magnitude of his impact on the boxing world, offering a quantitative glimpse into his remarkable journey. As he continues to dominate the heavyweight division, each win and accolade contributes to his legacy as a symbol of British boxing-style prowess. The resonance of Tyson Fury’s success extends beyond narratives to the concrete figures that define his unparalleled achievements in the ring.
Global Recognition for British Boxing
Tyson Fury’s accomplishments transcend personal triumphs, acting as a catalyst that swung open the doors for a cohort of British boxers onto the global stage. Among these rising stars are luminaries like Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte, who experienced a surge in visibility and respect. The renewed attention on British boxing, fueled by Fury’s exploits, not only elevated individual careers but collectively fortified the reputation of British fighters worldwide. The success of one became a rising tide lifting multiple boats, creating a ripple effect that resonated through the echelons of the sport.
Challenges Faced and Overcome:
Yet, within the tapestry of Tyson Fury’s journey lies a thread of challenges and personal tribulations. His well-documented struggles with mental health and personal issues did not merely serve as narrative elements but became integral facets of his story.
1. Mental Health Struggles
Tyson Fury confronted profound challenges related to mental health, a battle that unfolded both in and out of the ring.
2. Resilience Forged in Adversity
However, rather than succumbing to these challenges, Fury emerged as a paragon of resilience. The very adversities that threatened to obscure his path became the crucible in which his character was forged.
3. Triumph Over Adversity
Fury’s ability to confront and conquer these personal demons transformed him from a mere fighter into a symbol of triumph over adversity. This transformation not only defined his career but positioned him as a source of inspiration for others facing similar struggles.
4. Beacon of Inspiration
In conquering battles within himself, Tyson Fury became a beacon of inspiration, illustrating that victory isn’t solely about defeating opponents in the ring but also about prevailing over the internal challenges that life presents.
Legacy and Future Prospects:
As Tyson Fury etches his name deeper into the annals of boxing history, his legacy within the realm of British boxing assumes an increasingly significant stature. Beyond celebrating past triumphs, the focus now shifts to the influence he will wield in shaping the future of the sport.
1. Celebrating Past Triumphs
Fury’s legacy is intricately connected to a string of celebrated triumphs, each contributing to the rich tapestry of British boxing history.
2. Shaping the Future
The spotlight turns toward the influence he will exert in shaping the future of boxing, not just within the UK but on a global scale.
3. Enduring Mark on British Boxing
Fury’s impact goes beyond the immediate present; it extends into a lasting imprint on the trajectory of British boxing.
4. Guiding Light for Generations
The resurgence initiated by Fury appears poised for a sustained and successful journey, with his legacy serving as a guiding light for the generations that follow.
5. Illuminating Paths for Aspiring Boxers
The question lingers not only on what he has achieved but on the enduring mark he will leave. Fury’s legacy includes illuminating paths for aspiring boxers, showing them that success involves not just victories in the ring but also contributions to the evolution of British boxing on the global stage.
Tyson Fury’s undeniable results & Legacy
In essence, the narrative of Tyson Fury’s influence on the ascent of British boxing resounds as a transformative symphony. Tyson Fury knockouts echo through the annals of boxing history. From the trenches of personal struggles to the pinnacles of global recognition, Fury’s journey encapsulates more than the conventional arc of a heavyweight champion. It mirrors the broader metamorphosis of the sport within the UK, a tale of victories, challenges, and personal evolution. Tyson Fury emerges not merely as a heavyweight champion but as a symbol of resilience, individuality, and the indomitable spirit underpinning British boxing. In his story, the echoes of triumph reverberate far beyond the ring, resonating as an anthem for the enduring spirit of the sport.
Becky Lynch attended the St. Patrick’s Day celebration at the White House yesterday, met President Joe Biden, drank a pint of Guinness in one of the nice rooms, and hilariously added her new book “The Man” to the White House library!
The WWE Superstar was one of the few Irish stars to be invited to the White House along with the Irish Prime Minister and other politicians.
“It was an honor to represent Ireland & @WWE for St. Patrick’s Day at the @whitehouse,” Lynch wrote in a post on Instagram. “@POTUS said Becky Balboa is winning it all in Philly, had myself a pint, and even classed up the library with a little gift.”
Lynch shared a photo with President Biden as well as her book in the library.
WWE today announced a five-day tour leading up to the Bash in Berlin premium live event in late August which will see WWE Superstars travel to the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany ahead of the first WWE PLE in the German country.
The tour starts on Sunday, August 25 at the Ahoy Arena in Rotterdam, Netherlands. It continues Monday, August 26 at the Forest National in Brussels, Belgium. On Tuesday, August 27 it’s off to Germany for a show at the Rudolf Weber Arena in Oberhausen, on Wednesday, August 28 it’s a show at the Porsche Arena in Stuttgart and the final show before the PLE is on Thursday, August 29 at the Festhalle in Frankfurt.
WWE will have a live Smackdown on Friday in Berlin followed by the Bash in Berlin premium live event on Saturday.
These events will mark WWE’s first return to Stuttgart in two years, the first return to Brussels in five years, the first return to both Frankfurt and Oberhausen in six years, and the first return to Rotterdam in seven years.
A pre-sale will commence this Wednesday, March 20 at 10AM CET.
WrestleMania 40 is getting closer to 60,000 tickets for each night, with night two slightly ahead of night one in terms of attendance according to @WrestleTix.
With just approximately 20 days to go for the shows, WrestleMania Saturday is at 58,593 tickets out while WrestleMania Sunday is at 59,861 tickets. The Lincoln Financial Field is set up for 60,910 seats.
Prices remain very expensive, even with the limited view seats behind the stage. The lowest-priced tickets for the two nights are $200 in the rafters and limited view. Tickets in the top level are going for a minimum of $450.
Even secondary-market tickets are going for a very high price, with night one tickets starting at $338 and night two at $352.
All tickets are expected to be gone by the time the show comes around.
Recently published court documents show that AEW were in contact with the victim of a domestic violence assault by one of its former producers and offered her a cash settlement and made her sign an NDA.
BJ Whitmer, who worked for AEW as a producer since 2019, was fired by the company after he was arrested in June of last year. The 45-year-old was taken into custody on June 4 by the Boone County Sheriff’s Department in Kentucky and charged with first degree strangulation and second degree burglary.
The court document says that after investigations in consideration to offer a plea bargain to Whitmer, the most significant information was that the victim received a cash settlement and signed a non-disclosure agreement with AEW.
“The Commonwealth was aware that the victim had been in contact with AEW shortly after the incident however the extent of these discussions were unknown,” the document says.
The fans here were excited, chanting ‘holy shit’ as the bell rang but there were also a visible number of empty seats even on the hard cam side – a fitting encapsulation of this match.
Grappling to the mat, Danielson worked the arm down into a quick pin, Shibata recovering briefly before being taken down once more. He popped up with wrist control, Danielson rolled and contorted to reverse grip but was taken down quickly by the shoulder, rolling away, stare down, reset.
Cagey circling now, both aiming kicks to keep the other at bay, Danielson got the wrists, with them locked they each aimed kicks at the hamstrings, Danielson slipped behind to take Shibata down by the feet, thinking Romero Special but settling for stomping the achilles.
Back to the arm, snapping it across his shoulder, Shibata firing back with his free arm, rinse and repeat x2. Shibata kicking Danielson down, maintaining wrist control, more kicks and forearms with Danielson on his knees, until he popped back up to go back after the arm and take Shibata down. The Japanese countered back into a bow and arrow, Danielson slipped out thinking ankle lock but went for his own bow and arrow.
Shibata flipped out to bag one but was then forced back to the corner. This sounds like an old studio wrestling show.
Danielson shoved him, Shibata did it back, several more followed before the chops came out. Chest-reddening ones. Until Danielson faked one then cheaply took Shibata down, stomping the shoulder/triceps, to boos. Dueling chant as he again took Shibata down via high armdrag, Shibata slipping to the apron but countering a suplex to drop Danielson outside and land a PK from the apron.
Ads.
Back to Danielson landing a corner dropkick; Shibata no sold, followed Danielson to land one of his own, Danielson followed back to do the same, stiff chest kicks now until a pissed Shibata aimed a flurry of stiff forearms and chops till Danielson slumped against the bottom buckle.
Running dropkick drew an ‘oooh’ from the crowd. Danielson out at two after a delay.
Chin lock, Danielson fighting up to his feet, dueling chant again as he slipped behind, series of standing switches ending with Shibata grabbing an ankle lock, Danielson flipped free into his own, each countered once more until Shibata was dragged up into a German suplex, he got up selling his head but stumbled far enough to deliver an STO, both down.
Shibata got a near fall, TiA started as he landed H&A into a chinlock, looked for a Rainmaker, Danielson ducking, busaiku hit, Shibata out at two but right into the LeBell, middle of the ring, chants of ‘tap’, Danielson grabbed the arm nearest the rope, Shibata searching with his legs instead and getting the break.
Was in that a long time, doesn’t do a lot for the hold’s credibility.
Danielson aimed chest kicks, Shibata wagging his finger ‘no!’ then sitting with his legs crossed asking Danielson to bring it, a final kick rolled him backwards to pop up into a pump kick, exchange of big boots, Kawada kicks from Shibata, clubbing blow to the back, Danielson on his knees now as Shibata aimed chest kicks of his own, Danielson now sat with his legs crossed, returning the favor.
Shibata joined him, face to face, aiming stinging open hands to the face, very stiff, especially for two guys with past head injuries. Danielson finally went to the kicks, landing a roundhouse, Shibata slumping, chants of ‘yes!’ as Danielson went for the busaiku again, Shibata countered to hit a ripcord slap, into the iron octopus.
Danielson got the ropes quickly with his foot. Shibata missed a PK and was rolled up for two, each countered pinfalls for two, in and out, until Danielson rolled through into the LeBell, again dead center, Shibata countered into a pin, Danielson countered back for three.
I’m sure this was better than the match vs Shane Taylor last week which I really enjoyed. But it went way longer and crucially, last week there were other things to look forward to along with just ‘wrestling’: stars, angles. Tonight has nothing.
Winner: Bryan Danielson
They briefly recapped Mercedes’ debut. Including footage of Willow/Mercedes from last year. Then Mone saving Willow from a two-on-one at the hands of Julia and Skye Blue. If someone’s really such a big ‘get,’ it should be trumpeted throughout the show.
Julia Hart vs Trish Adora (TBS Title)
Backstory: NONE
‘Queen Spooky,’ as Eric Krol of the Torch referred to her this week (which just perfectly encapsulates how limited the character is) was out first. It seems they’re half-assed trying to make a thing of the Infantry since Adora got an entrance and is apparently part of that.
The dumbass ‘House Rules’ thing is that the loser can’t appear at ringside during the tag later. So the HOB’s chances in that could drop from 100% to 99.9999999999999 if Julia loses.
Adora humped Julia while performing a splits over her after taking her down. She then got another whacky submission to silence. Then took Hart down to silence. Julia then exited the ring – say it with me – to silence.
Julia slipped out of a bodyslam outside and sent Adora face-first to the steps. Then did it again.
Then it was ads. Gripping stuff.
Back to a chinlock, Adora elbowing free, shots to the face then a lariat, leaping knee, she tried to get the crowd going to not much return. Then got two after a shoulder breaker. Pump kick missed badly, Julia hit a lariat in the corner, running back elbow, STO, Adora countered Hartless for two, bridging German from her knees for the same.
But then missed a senton by a ridiculous amount, Julia was already in the next state.
Julia got her feet up in the corner, thrust kick, moonsault coming. Fans did get up for that. She hit it beautifully too. Should’ve gone half the time, max.
Winner: Julia Hart
Backstage to Zac Knight and Harley Cameron. Knight was challenged yesterday by Angelo Parker. Cheap heat mode engaged, Knight said he wouldn’t face Parker in Canada, they made a bunch of ultra-generic jokes at the country’s expense, Knight then repeated the start of his promo – ‘Zac Knight will give you a fight,’ (it rhymes you see) and ‘let’s be havin ya.’
Knight is Saraya’s brother in case you weren’t aware, since AEW didn’t bother to explain who the hell he is. There wasn’t much here to suggest why he was hired in a company bursting at the seams with talent.
Daniel Garcia vs Lee Moriarty
Backstory: NONE
Think what I will, Garcia got a hell of a pop coming out here. Moriarty did not. A fired-up Menard joining on comms.
This started fast, the two rushing each other looking for early pins until Moriarty trapped Garcia in a headscissors. Garcia escaped then did his stupid dance, basically thrusting his crotch in Lee’s face.
Then avoided a corner charge, low kick, shotgun dropkick, out goes Lee. Shane Taylor’s at ringside btw. Garcia’s dumb so he jawed with him and took a tope (a babyface who stops to dance and is easily distracted – where can we get hold of his merch?).
Taylor again interfered. To a healthy amount of boos. Moriarty then mocked Garcia’s dance. To more boos. And hit a belly to belly after Garcia tried to fight back. Then began manipulating the fingers before focusing on the elbow.
Garcia to his feet, shots to the gut, snapping jabs, avoiding wild swings from Moriarty before stomping him down in the corner and preening to the crowd. Chop block after Moriarty missed another wild swing, Moriarty limping, taking a big open hand, belly to back, for two.
Moriarty hooked the legs to counter a pin but couldn’t follow up due to his leg. But hit back to stomp Garcia out of an enziguri. Garcia got a heel hook. For the tap. Wow, that was quick. Fast, smooth and crisp while it lasted.
Winner: Daniel Garcia
They still have not mentioned the tag tournament outside of tonight’s ‘wildcard match.’ Which they haven’t bothered to explain either – what’s it for? Why are these teams in it?
*****
They replayed Darby legitimately breaking his foot against Jay White Weds (in that spot where he took the fall on his feet after a dive). They blamed the injury on White and BCG.
(Allin’s no longer climbing Everest this year btw.)
PAC vs Aaron Solo
Backstory: NONE
I saw this advertised elsewhere as Pac vs Komander. Guess they were rushed for time after crushing so many matches onto the show?
Solo hit a couple early moves, Pac bailed outside, Solo followed with a dive but barely got a one count after bundling Pac back in.
Crowd chanted ‘welcome back,’ as Pac began dissecting Solo with kicks. ‘He’s a bastard,’ followed while Pac continued to murder Solo with his feet. Shotgun off the top, kip-up, vicious running back-elbow in the corner, Black Arrow, Brutalizer, tap.
This is what squashes should be – short, high-impact showcases.
Pac grabbed a mic and said he’s back and ‘looking for trouble.’ And ‘this’ (Solo) is not what he had in mind. He again told Khan he’s ‘looking for trouble,’ warning Khan to find him some or he’ll go looking for it.
Winner: PAC
Bryan Danielson backstage. Meditating. He kept repeating ‘gratitude.’ Then said he’s so thankful he could wrestle Shibata tonight. Both were told they’d never wrestle again after head injuries. He’s also grateful he has a match upcoming with Ospreay.
He saw what Ospreay said Weds about emulating him but also that he’s not yet ready to die. Which tells Danielson that Ospreay might have followed him but he’s not ready to be him or face him.
Guys like him and Shibata have been willing to die for what they love and are willing to do whatever it takes. ‘And I don’t think you’re ready for that yet.’
Pretty effective, perhaps missing a couple little things to truly bring it together. Gist was there.
Claudio Castagnoli vs Lance Archer
Backstory: NONE
Stiff grapple, neither gaining an advantage. Each aimed shoulder tackles, same result. Crowd started chanting ‘meat’ at these. At least a few people did. Each hit quick scoop slams, each then popped up.
Forearms now, each being rocked but showing no signs of leaving their feet. Boots – same result. Claudio lariated Archer up and out at the second attempt, ran into a choke but countered the slam attempt by clambering onto the apron; Archer countered back to land a cannonball off the apron.
Ads. Guess that means Archer’s the heel.
Claudio hit a delayed vertical, uppercut in the corner but running into a big Archer lariat. The bigger guy heading upstairs now, arm captured, looking for his rope-walk moonsault, which was countered into an uppercut.
Swing time. Archer fought it off but took a stomp, bailing outside.
Claudio bundled him back in, Archer met him up top with a knee strike, chokeslam, two with the first pin of the match. Blackout coming, Claudio slipped behind, DVD, uppercut flurry in the corner, cutter dragging Archer off the top. For two.
Neutralizer countered but Claudio recovered to land a springboard uppercut. Crowd chanting for the swing, Castagnoli motioned for it and just started it when the Righteous ran in for the stoppage.
Why the hell couldn’t Claudio beat a guy everybody else does? Don’t mind the odd no contest if there’s a good reason; this wasn’t.
Danielson ran out to help out but took a beating too. Moxley’s not here apparently. Shibata ran out with a chair and the heels bailed. Guess it’s the Righteous’ bi-monthly half-push. And guess there’s a six-man coming.
Winner: No Contest
Angelo Parker and Ruby Soho. Parker was basically inconsolable at Knight having turned down his challenge. He vowed to go looking for him. Ruby tried to talk him out of it and said if he did, he’d have to do it without her.
Parker said he’d leave it for tonight.
So I’ve seen about 2/5 of the Parker/Soho story and 0/5 of the Knight/Parker story. It all strikes me as a terrible waste of tv time but if you’re going to do it at least keep your audience up to date. Why does Parker want Zac so badly?
Kyle O’Reilly vs Bryan Keith
Backstory: O’Reilly has seemingly been champing at the bit for 2+ years to face Keith
O’Reilly got a decent response coming out but the crowd were silent as this started. Nigel made a joke about diabetes. Very stiff.
For what seems like every match tonight but Pac, they grappled to a stalemate then had to start again. O’Reilly working the arm; Keith countering into a hammerlock, O’Reilly blocked a takedown looking for the armbar but took a shot and bailed outside.
Returning after collecting himself, they got back to grappling. Then chopping and forearm-ing. Dropdown, leapfrog countered by a Keith kick; O’Reilly immediately struck back with a rising knee then faked another and slapped Keith.
Kitchen sink; Keith countered behind into an abdominal stretch, O’Reilly looking for a guillotine choke but Keith hit a heel kick to free himself. Keith again countered a submission, this time into a ddt for two.
Ads. Damn this show’s boring.
A really nice flurry of kicks from Kyle – high and low – ending with a sweep, high angle belly to back looking for a knee bar, Keith rolled to the ropes. It’s so quiet again.
Keith landed a kick to the gut, Kyle slipped off his shoulders and went for a guillotine down into the triangle then landed a punt after releasing his grip. Upstairs he was cut off, took a knee to the face, near fall which no-one bought since the winner’s so obvious. A powerbomb for the same.
Kyle armdragged Keith down from the top but took an enziguri. A brainbuster got two, the armbar got the tap.
There was absolutely no reason for this to go so long – are you trying to build the guy who just returned or establish the new guy? Make your mind up.
The Disputed Kingdom came out and raised Kyle onto their shoulders.
Winner: Kyle O’Reilly
Deonna and Rosa with Lexxy. Deonna used the ‘enemy of my enemy’ line about them teaming – she’s fought Rosa before and trusts her. She then complained about Toni tapping out at the ppv before all the cheating helped her keep her title. Rosa then said Toni had the title she never lost.
They have a mission and it’s ‘tv time.’ Huh?
Deonna almost sounded like Bret Hart here when he was deliberately whining about injustice to turn himself heel.
The Infantry vs House of Black
Backstory: ‘Wildcard’ match for tag tourney
So is Copeland closing the show? Schiavone just mentioned that we’re still to hear from him. If not, Jesus Christ, if you thought last week’s main event was weak…
They finally explained that the winners here face FTR in the opening round. Makes me think the Infantry might win after their argument with FTR last week. Maybe after Mark Briscoe interferes?
On the subject, they still haven’t told us the tag brackets. So basically, if you don’t watch Rampage, screw you.
The House attacked before the bell and beat the Infantry around ringside. Course, the audience have no reason to care about the Infantry so this got no boos. It’s Brody and Buddy wrestling btw.
The ref asked an already battered Infantry if they wanted to continue. Unfortunately they said yes.
Ads.
Matthews missed a punt and was rolled up for two, Dean tagged in and tripped badly off the top rope, nearly face-planting. Crowd were kind though and he recovered quickly and hit an enziguri. Brody tagged in, Dean hit splashes in the corner to both until Brody walloped him with a lariat. Crowd barked to finally break the silence.
Dean was DVD’d onto the announce table but it didn’t break. Crowd finally woke and chanted ‘tables’ as Brody piledrove him onto it. Still didn’t break. Obviously hurt Brody too, he was clutching his backside.
Buddy got two on Bravo after raising him so he could continue to beat on him. Mark Briscoe came out with a chair and knocked Buddy off the apron then goaded Brody into following him through the crowd. No idea why it wasn’t a DQ.
The Infantry crawled into a pin after being eviscerated for ten minutes straight. Man what a tournament this’ll be with teams of this caliber taking part!!!
They finally showed the brackets. Though only long enough for me to see it has eight teams and the Bucks are facing Private Party.
Winner: House of Black
Package pushing the Copeland/Cage match.
Copeland then came out and got the loudest response this amount of people can give. He said last time he performed here he wasn’t sure he’d ever be back. He has a lot of history here. He said it’s fitting he’s facing a guy he thought was his best friend.
(He’d brought the case thing he showed Cage last week.)
He said Cage had ‘bought it all’ (his gimmick) since he isn’t ‘Jay’ anymore. He said he figured that someday they’d be sipping whiskey, reminiscing. They talked about him coming to AEW, Cage was ‘on board’. Copeland came to be with him, not to take away his shine (haven’t we heard all this before?).
At World’s End he failed. So he picked himself up and decided to earn his shot. But the Patriarchy took him out – ‘with a conchairto’ (which they’ve made nothing of btw, a neck injury doesn’t mean much if you don’t mention it). He implied he’d talked to Mick Foley and Abyss (I think), so he’s ‘created Spike’ (a barbed bat). Which is what’s in the case.
He’s a man who has dark caves in his head and Wednesday Cage will end up in the hospital courtesy of him and Spike. He’s going to make Cage say two words that will take away his pride, make him unable to look his daughters in the eyes.
Forty years after it started, in their hometown, ‘it ends!’
Delivered well but much of this sounded like a rehash. The feud’s gone too long; as a guy who hates ‘garbage wrestling,’ adding a spiked bat only diminishes my interest. This show was an insult to our very finite time here on earth.
AEW will have a three-hour block this coming Wednesday on TBS as Rampage will air live immediately following the conclusion of Dynamite.
The Rampage pre-emption is due to the NCAA programming on TNT on Friday night and Collision will also be pre-empted on Saturday and will not air at all. For next week only, Rampage will also air on TBS instead of the usual TNT.
Next week’s Dynamite and Rampage will take place from the Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto, Canada.
For St. Patrick’s Day tomorrow, WWE Superstar Becky Lynch is giving up partying at an Irish pub and instead, she accepted an invitation to be at the White House.
Lynch will be there along with other Irish personalities including Prime Minister Leo Varadkar according to the New York Post.
The White House St. Patrick’s Day reception will include the traditional shamrock ceremony and President Biden will be presented with the traditional shamrock bowl, extending St. Patrick’s Day greetings from the people of Ireland to the people of the United States.
“I got invited to the White House, because I’m Ireland’s national treasure,” Lynch told the NY Post. “It’s a big Irish celebration, so I’ll be there.”
Keven Underago, who has been by Mercedes Mone’s side ever since she left WWE as her agent, told the Heal Squad podcast that while WWE made a generous offer for Mone last year, she went with her gut in choosing AEW.
“They put out a generous offer. A rival company that exists now also put out an offer,” Underago said. “Mercedes is really smart. She went with her gut and she felt the other offer was right. I agreed with her.”
He said that the AEW had a lot more and not necessarily money, but had more opportunity, creative, and mental help.
“It’s nice that, where Mercedes is now, she’s not tolerated, she’s truly celebrated,” he continued. “They see her for what she is, which is a star. This is a girl that, even just being on Mandalorian in her small role, they made nine action figures for her. They don’t do that out of charity, they do that because they sell!”
He continued saying that Mercedes now is in a home that “gets it” and he’s glad that he was able to deliver that for her.
Underago is the husband of Maria Menounos, who also hosts the Heal Squad podcast, and the creator of broadcast network AfterBuzz TV.
Two teams from Smackdown advanced in the WrestleMania Tag Team Championship tournament which will see Judgment Day defend their titles in a six-pack ladder match.
Legado Del Fantasma beat the LWO in one qualifying match while New Catch Republic defeated Pretty Deadly later in the show to earn the other spot. Now, the winning teams will face each other to earn a spot in Philadelphia.
Other matches from the blue brand side will see The Street Profits vs AOP and The OC vs Waller and Theory. These matches will take place on Smackdown next week and the winners of these matches will face each other on another week.
The tournament continues on Raw next Monday with Raw teams taking center stage.
Darby Allin’s expedition to climb Mount Everest later this month has been postponed after he broke three bones in his foot.
The incident happened this past Wednesday at the Big Business Dynamite in his match against Jay White, with TMZ saying that he broke it when he went for the senton from the top rope to the floor.
Allin continued his match despite the broken foot and was then attacked after the match in a way to write him off TV.
Now, the daredevil will have to put his dream of climbing Mount Everest on the back burner as one of his crazy spots caught up to him, leaving him out for many weeks.
Allin told TMZ that he will make another attempt next year but obviously has to redo all the training again for that mammoth occasion.
Three new matches were announced for WrestleMania 40 on last night’s Smackdown.
The United States championship will be defended in a triple threat match as Logan Paul puts up his gold against both Randy Orton and Kevin Owens.
LA Knight was disappointed that he’s not in any title picture at this year’s mega showcase but he got an opponent that you could hardly argue over in the form of AJ Styles. The match was made official last night with Styles accepting Knight’s challenge by beating him with a steel chair.
And brothers will collide as Jimmy Uso also accepted Jey’s challenge for a one-on-one match at WrestleMania. The two, who main evented night one of last year’s WrestleMania, spoke in an interview that their dream would be to face each other on the show and they’re getting just that come next month.
Smackdown opens with the entrance of The Rock. The crowd cheered for The Rock and Rock said lately he has been coming out trashing every city he has been in, but tonight is different because he started here. The Rock said he will say this: Finally The Rock has come back…..home.
Rock says they are going to have a little fun and he is going to sing a song. The Rock proceeded to sing a song about Cody and then about Seth.
The Rock then talked about the slap from Cody last week. He then tells Cody’s mom he is going to give her his weight belt because Cody isn’t beating Roman Reigns at WrestleMania.
Humberto & Angel VS. Joaquin Wilde & Cruz Del Toro in a WrestleMania Six-Pack Challenge qualifying match.
Humberto throws Wilde up for a pop-up move and as Wilde came down Angel kicked him, and Humberto got the pinfall as Del Toro was lying on the floor outside.
Winners: Angel & Humberto
Kayla Braxton interviewed LA Knight. LA told AJ Styles if he thinks he should be humbled AJ needs to come out and humble him. LA challenged AJ to a match at WrestleMania. As LA finished talking, AJ ran out and attacked LA with a chair then sat the chair on LA across his throat then sat on it and accepted LA’s challenge.
Logan Paul walks in to talk to Nick Aldis and Logan asked what the fine was for Randy Orton ruined the Prime debut last week. Logan said he thinks Randy needs to apologize and Nick tells Logan to ask for the apology himself. Logan said that’s your job, but you can’t even do your job and find me an opponent for WrestleMania.
Jimmy Uso, Solo Sikoa and Paul Heyman walking backstage, and Kayla Braxton ran up and scared Paul Heyman but asked about Jey Uso’s challenge to Jimmy and Jimmy says, “I got you” YEET!
Randy Orton VS. Grayson Waller
Before the match, starts Logan Paul comes out. Logan heads to the announce table and while Randy was distracted by Logan’s entrance. Waller attacked Randy.
After two backdrops on the announce table in front of Logan Paul, the action goes back inside and Austin Theory gets on the apron and as Waller runs at Randy, Randy moves and Waller hits Theory.
Randy hits the DDT and goes for the RKO but Theory pulls Waller out of the ring. Randy pulls Theory in the ring and hits his DDT on him and Waller attempted to come after Randy again who hit the RKO and gets the pin.
Winner: Randy Orton
After the match, Theory attacked Randy and Logan Paul comes in and as Theory held Randy, Paul was going to hit him but Kevin Owens comes in and makes the save. Randy almost hit the RKO on Owens, but Owens shoves off and Randy looked apologetic but spun Owens around and it was Theory again and Owens hits the stunner and Theory falls into an RKO. As Randy and Kevin celebrated, Logan Paul watched from the entrance way and Nick Aldis comes out. Aldis first asked Paul if he was able to get that apology from Randy.
Nick then tells Paul he just determined his opponents for WrestleMania, and he will defend the United States title against Kevin Owens and Randy Orton in a triple threat match.
A video package of the Damage Control/Bayley issues was shown.
Kayla Braxton then interviewed Damage Control.
Santos Escobar VS. Dragon Lee
Escobar caught Lee in the Dragon Driver and held him down for the pin.
Winner: Santos Escobar
After the match Escobar, Angel and Humberto continue to kick and beat Lee and Carlito makes the save and Santos was able to hit Carlito from behind. Rey Mysterio comes out and goes after Escobar and sets him up for 619 but Escobar dives out of the ring.
Rey then challenges Santos for a match next week.
New Catch Republic VS. Pretty Deadly in a WrestleMania six-pack challenge qualifying match.
Dunne and Bate hit the Birmingham Mer and got the pin.
Winners: New Catch Republic
Bayley VS. Dakota Kai
Iyo Sky and the Kabuki Warriors jumped in the ring causing the disqualification.
Winner by DQ: Bayley
After the match Damage Control continued to beat down Bayley and Naomi came out to try and help but Damage Control knocked her out as well.
