Via social media John Cena is blatantly over-hyping his announcement for Backlash: “In just a few days, I have a major announcement inside this building that is gonna shock the very foundation of WWE, from its fans to its superstars, from its champions down to its rookies. I’m so grateful that Tampa is allowing me to make this announcement. Thank you, WWE. See you live on ESPN in the States and Netflix around the world, but don’t miss Backlash. I’m so excited, and I’ll see you there.”
Speaking of hype WWE is plugging an upcoming event in Atlantic City — a double Raw and SmackDown TV taping on June 29 at the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Garry Musich: “WWE’s return to Atlantic City marks another exciting chapter in our city’s ongoing evolution as a premier entertainment destination. From legendary WrestleMania moments to today’s world-class performances, Atlantic City continues to deliver dynamic, year-round experiences for visitors. Hosting Monday Night Raw at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall underscores our commitment to bringing globally recognized events to the destination and reinforces the energy, excitement, and nonstop entertainment that define Atlantic City.”
Goldust/Dustin Rhodes says he’s never going back to WWE: “Worked too hard for my legacy to be tarnished by 50% less pay. NOOOOO! Won’t say it again. Love ya and ty for asking though.”
According to Dave Meltzer the latest round of “(WWE) cuts are done” for now. (WO)
Paul Heyman says he had no idea Brock Lesnar would retire at WrestleMania 42: “If I knew he was gonna retire, would I have gone on record saying he was gonna dominate for the next 15 years? I was crying. Am I that good of an actor that I can cry on cue? Not I.” Coincidentally Lesnar’s profile has just been moved to the Alumni section of WWE’s website, cementing the idea that he truly is done.
Speaking of WWE’s website, AJ Lee, Paige and the Bella Twins have all been moved to the “free agent” section meaning they’re not affiliated with Raw or SmackDown.
Here’s the announced card for SmackDown tonight. (WWE)
- WWE Women’s United States Championship Match: Tiffany Stratton vs. Kiana James
- Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss vs. Fatal Influence
- Gunther explains his attack on Cody Rhodes
- A funeral for the Gingerbread Man
Lee Ying Lee beat Arianna Grace for the Knockouts Title on Impact last night.
Here are last night’s ROH on Honor Club results. (WO)
- Eddie Kingston & Ortiz def. The Infantry
- Pure Rules Match: Josh Woods def. Beef
- Ace Austin & Juice Robinson def. The Workhorsemen
- Action Andretti def. Nathan Cruz
- Alec Price & Jordan Oliver def. Cole Karter & Griff Garrison
- Spanish Announce Project & The Colons def. Alexander Lev, Hadar Horvitz, Ori Gold, & Hunter James
- The Premier Athletes def. Main Man Oro & Kiran Grey
- ROH Women’s World Television Championship Proving Ground Match: Red Velvet def. Rachael Ellering
- Adam Priest & Tommy Billington def. Grizzled Young Veterans
- The Rascalz def. MxMxTV
