The conflicting reports about Asuka are really hard to fathom following Backlash. One source says she’s “out indefinitely for personal reasons” (BSN) which would be totally understandable given the way her friend Kairi Sane was cut in the middle of their program. Another says multiple people in WWE stated she hasn’t wrestled her last match for them, she’s highly popular with the talent and the staff, and that she’s been praised repeatedly for her ability to work with whatever gets thrown her way. (FF) Until we get a statement from Kanako Urai herself on what her future is, nobody really has any clue at all.
Coincidentally enough AJ Styles said this on Instagram: “I don’t know the facts, but I know Asuka will be a Hall of Famer.” Presumably he meant WWE HOF but she belongs in any wrestling hall of fame ever.
Jake Hager is returning to pro wrestling for WWC Aniversario 53 on June 27th.
Here’s the advertised card for Raw tonight. (WWE)
- Jacob Fatu will take part in a Roman Reigns Acknowledgment Ceremony
- Oba Femi Open Challenge continues
- Street Profits (Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins) & Joe Hendry vs. The Vision (Bron Breakker, Logan Paul, & Austin Theory)
- Women’s Tag Team Champions Brie Bella & Paige will respond to The Judgment Day
In this interview Thekla talks about establishing herself in the United States: “It took me a long time to find a place where I feel most comfortable, and that is fortunately not tied to a physical place. It was tough in Austria; it was always a fun time. Being in Japan, it was a tough time, but also challenging and very, very fun. And now the States, I’m kind of a baby here. I’ve only been here roughly a year. I’d say the States has been very good to me. And I’ve had a great run so far. So maybe the States are the king.”
Rhea Ripley is back in the gym working out after her recent struggles with an eating disorder, and I’m happy to see she’s feeling and doing much better. Continued success to her!
WWE still doesn’t know exactly what the “John Cena Classic” is or what the format will be. (WO)
Speaking of figuring things out, WWE filed a “Superstar Scramble” trademark, which is believed to be for a yet-to-be announced video game.
New Japan star Hiroyoshi Tenzan has announced his retirement: “Thank you for coming today. It’s been 35 years for me in wrestling, but on August 15, I will officially retire. I don’t know whether it’s been a long 35 years or if it’s gone by in a flash, but I know that I’ve had so much support from so many people, and I’m so very thankful. I came into this business not knowing right from left, but to come as far as I did, and to have lived as a pro-wrestler is something that I’m truly grateful for. If there’s anything that I can do after I retire to help NJPW in any way then I would appreciate the chance.”
