The Latest: Vince McMahon Sex and Hush Money Scandal

Recent allegations involving WWE CEO and Chairman have surfaced involving an alleged agreement for an employee to keep quiet following a sexual encounter with the boss.

On June 15th, 2022 Wall Street Journal reported that WWE Chairman Vince McMahon had allegedly paid 3 Million dollars in a Nondisclouse agreement to a former WWE paralegal with the intention of keeping her quiet involving a consensual sexual relationship with McMahon. The WWE board began investigating the matter as well as others involving similar payments and misconduct as well as John Laurentius who has since stepped down as Head of WWE Talent Relations. Laurentius was said to have also had sexual relations with the same paralegal as McMahon. The WWE Board was informed of these actions via an anonymous email from someone claiming to be a friend of the paralegal in question. She describes the woman was initially hired on a $100,000 salary which was increased later to $200,000 after beginning a sexual relationship with McMahon. A Settlement agreement including an NDA stated the paralegal would receive 1 Million dollars upfront upon her departure to keep quiet on the matter with an additional $2 Million to be paid out over the next 5 years. Upon the news of the investigation breaking McMahon stepped down as CEO of WWE, a role that was filled by his daughter Stephanie McMahon.

On July 8th WSJ once again reported on the ongoing Vince McMahon investigation claiming he had, “Agreed to Pay $12 Million in Hush Money to Four Women”. One of these reports involves a former, unnamed, female wrestler who was persuaded into giving the Chairman oral sex before being moved down the card and eventually released upon refusal of sexual activities in 2008, in 2018 she was paid $7.5 Million to remain quiet on the subject according to Jude Terror. Another report of unsolicited nude photos of McMahon alongside sexual harassment came from a contractor in 2008 who was allegedly paid 1 million dollars in response. In a third instance, McMahon paid another $1 Million to a long-time personal manager he had engaged in a sexual relationship with.

As the investigation of Vince McMahon continues, stories of Nondisclosure agreements and sexual assault allegations are still being reviewed by The WWE Board of Directors.

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Images, .css-1i2ud9c-CreditTag{font-weight:400;text-transform:uppercase;}Photo: Michael N. Todaro/Getty. “WWE’s Vince McMahon Steps Back from CEO Role amid Misconduct Probe.” The Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones & Company, 18 June 2022, https://www.wsj.com/articles/wwe-appoints-vince-mcmahons-daughter-as-interim-ceo-amid-probe-11655467082?mod=article_inline.

Murray, Andy H. “More to Come from Vince McMahon’s ‘Hush Money’ Allegations?” WhatCulture.com, WhatCulture.com, 18 July 2022, https://whatculture.com/wwe/more-to-come-from-vince-mcmahons-34-hush-money-34-allegations.

“PWInsider – WWE News, Wrestling News, WWE.” IS THERE MORE TO COME FROM THE VINCE MCMAHON SITUATION?, MY PICK FOR FLAIR’S LAST OPPONENT, SASHA OUTSIDE WWE AND MORE | PWInsider.com, https://pwinsider.com/article/161099/is-there-more-to-come-from-the-vince-mcmahon-situation-my-pick-for-flairs-last-opponent-sasha-outside-wwe-and-more.html?p=1.

Terror, Jude. “WSJ Reports 3 More Sexual Misconduct Ndas for WWE’s Vince McMahon.” Bleeding Cool News And Rumors, Bleeding Cool News And Rumors, 8 July 2022, https://bleedingcool.com/tv/wsj-reports-3-more-sexual-misconduct-ndas-for-wwes-vince-mcmahon/.

Who To Watch In AEW for 2022

Who will be positioned for a World Title match in the land of All Elite moving forward into 2022?

For anyone new to the All Elite Wrestling craze, welcome to the biggest revolution in professional wrestling since WCW closed their doors in 2001. All Elite Wrestling has been making needle moving shockwaves in the professional wrestling industry over the past two years and especially in the ladder few months of 2021. One question that constantly looms in the horizon and excites long time fans is, who’s next to be positioned for that World Title spot? Naturally there are a couple hot names right off that bat that are nearly guaranteed to step up, and because of this we’re not taking the low hanging fruit. That being said CM Punk, Bryan Danielson, Adam Cole, and Hangman Page will NOT be included in this list. Today we’re focusing on hot young talent that is seemingly on the rise and could find themselves number one contenders for the New Big Gold Belt come 2022.

MJF

Image from BleacherReport.com

Let’s face it, Maxwell Jacob Friedman has been on everyone’s list of future champions for a long, long time now. MJF has had the run of his career in mid 2021 finding himself the focal point of the “Labors of Jericho” storyline which revolved around MJF’s attempt to retire the “Demo God”. While MJF can certainly talk the talk he can also go in the ring. In fact, the higher ups at AEW seem to be so high on MJF even president Tony Khan claimed in the AEW Before The Bell documentary that MJF is so good he “no longer considers him young talent” even though he is one of the youngest guys on the roster. This one seems to be a no brainer and seems like only a matter of time before the “Salt of The Earth” is holding the richest prize in AEW.

Brian Pillman Jr.

image from Talksport.com

Coincidentally enough, the man currently locked in one of the most ruthless feuds going today with the aforementioned MJF, Brian Pillman Jr. has all the makings of becoming a contender for the AEW Championship. Pillman Jr. was a major get for All Elite back in July 2021. Since then the second generation loose cannon has been tearing up the tag division with Varsity Blondes partner, Griff Garrison, until beginning his red hot feud with MJF in his home town of Cincinnati. While Pillman Jr. has proven his in ring capability over the past year time and time again, his verbal skills may have fallen a little behind. Since engaging in this current program however, Pillman has been able to work the stick like never before in his career. On top of being one of the best between the ropes, Pillman has that second generation stigma and is over like hell as the underdog baby face with the fans that it only makes sense we seem him facing off against a monster heel for the AEW title in the near future.

Jungle Boy

Image from 411Mania.com

Undeniably one of the absolute hottest sensations in professional wrestling today, Jungle Boy Jack Perry is commonplace among dream match talks for young talent and veterans alike. CM Punk. Adam Cole, and Chris Jericho have all discussed wanting to tear it up with Jungle Boy and for good reason. With the backing from the fans as well as management (see Baltimora’s Tarzan Boy for proof) Jungle Boy is the picture perfect underdog babyface, sorry Brian. While he has made serious waves already with colleagues and legends as part of the Jurassic Express, we have to acknowledge the team never makes the cut when future dream matches are discussed, only the son of legendary Luke Perry.

Matt Sydal

Image from Sportskeeda.com

Debuting as the surprise entrant in The Casino Battle Royal in 2020, Sydal was a much welcome addition to the AEW family. A man who fans have been clamoring to see on a big stage once again for many years now, Sydal has seemingly slipped under the radar for the majority of 2021. Competing primarily on Dark episodes and in tag team outings, Sydal has not missed a step in the ring and appears to be in better condition than ever. If AEW plans to keep fresh faces and interesting never before seen matches moving forward, Sydal is a phenomenal choice for a challenger/champion excelling both as a face or heel. While Matt has seemingly found a temporary home on Dark for the time being he does boast a 16-6 record for 2021 and seems to be rising the ranks of All Elite Wrestling,

These are just a few of the potential roster members who could be positioned for great things come the 2022 AEW year. Like previously stated names such as Adam Cole, CM Punk, Bryan Danielson, Hangman Page and more are almost dead set on an AEW Title program in the near future as well. Who do you believe could be the next AEW breakout star, let us know below and be sure to check out more articles just like this one right here! Personally, Pres10 Vance is showing great promise, but maybe not for 2022.

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Brock Lesnar, Kurt Angle, CM Punk, Daniel Bryan and MORE to AEW?

Wrestling Rumors for the week of July 30th 2021


Brock Lesnar to sign outside of WWE

RingsideNews.com

As reported on earlier in the week by Dirt Sheet Radio, Rumors have been circulating about The Beast Incarnate’s return outside of the WWE. While at this point in thine these rumors have yet to be confirmed, Dirt Sheet Radio claim Brock, “has signed a deal” with someone outside of World Wrestling Entertainment. While many believe this may mean Lesnar is gearing up for his in ring return to the UFC, it’s not completely out of the realm of possibility AEW could have their “Next Big Thing” on their hands! With the recent signings and rumored signings from AEW owner Tony Khan, we may be seeing the first big money contracts rolled out to snag these larger than life talents much like we saw from WCW. Only time will tell where Brock Lesnar will take to suplex city next!

Kurt Angle offered AEW and Impact Deals

WWE.com

Coming off of an interview with Fightful Select, Kurt Angle revealed he was offered an opportunity to make an in ring return with AEW, despite Angle previously stating he wouldn’t work for the company. Angle declined the offer due to his declining physical condition in the ring. Impact would also reach out to Kurt, according to WeestlingInc, for a one off appearance but this would also be declined. It would seem more likely than not we’ve seen the last of Kurt Angle’s in ring career following his WWE retirement match with Baron Corbin, but as it goes in wrestling, never say never.

The IIconics between Impact and AEW

WWE.com

Currently still under their WWE 90 day no-Compete clause, The former Billie Kay (Jesse McKay) and Peyton Royce (Cassie Lee) seem to have narrowed down their post WWE career paths to two major companies, AEW or Impact Wrestling. As stated by Cultaholic in their coverage of the duo, McKay and Lee plan on sticking together wherever they go opting to sign as a package deal rather than go their own ways. During an appearance on Busted Open Radio, the two heavily weighed their options and discussed their interests as well as their concerns about joining either company. Cassie Lee went on to claim, “I feel like we could really help their women’s division, though they don’t necessarily have a women’s tag division.”, referring the AEW during the Busted Open interview. As far as Impact Wrestling is concerned the duo believe they have the drawing power to greatly help the company’s exposure.

The American Dragon Makes it Official

WWE.com

News broke earlier in the week that former WWE Champion Daniel Bryan will not be returning to the company following his departure after Wrestlemania. Bryan had been in talks with All Elite Wrestling about a contract that would allow for a more lenient schedule and according to Bodyslam.net it’s a done deal! With both Dave Meltzer and Sean Ross Sapp backing the speculation, despite not being able to confirm, it would look as though The American Dragon is set for a return to the ring with All Elite Wrestling! Although Bryan himself has not made a statement about the matter, CageSideSeats does a great job breaking down everything we know so far about the alleged contract and debut of Bryan Danielson.

“CM Punk to AEW Confirmed”

WWE.com

Ollie Davis of Wrestletalk pun aside, the news that has been blowing up the wrestling community the past week is the possible in ring return of one CM Punk. The long awaited return of the voice of the voiceless is rumored to be under the AEW banner, while every wrestling reporter under the sun is scrambling to piece together whatever evidence they can to support him signing with the company. While the likes of Dave Meltzer are reporting the backstage officials at WWE believe Punk has already signed on the dotted line, no official word has come out from the AEW team nor Punk himself. Meanwhile the community continues to stoke the flame noting the recent Twitter following of In Loving Colour to AEW’s official account, and more recently the entirety of the July 28th episode of AEW Dynamite that seemed to be blatantly littered with Punk References. Most notably on the show was a backstage promo for AEW’s up coming event in Chicago, of all places, where Darby Allin made the claim, “…there’s only one place to really prove that. Right here in AEW. Even if you think you’re the best in the world.” Could we be seeing the long awaited in ring return of The Best In The World in Chicago? Only time will tell! Watch the video of Darby “calling out” Punk below courtesy of AEW’s YouTube.

Who do you think is showing up in AEW, and are there any truth to these contact signings? Let us know in the comment section below and don’t forget to check out some of our other great articles while you’re here!

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Songs that SHOULD Have been Wrestler’s Themes

If you’re more than the average fan, chances are you can go word for word or note for note with any litany of wrestler themes across a multitude of eras. The entrance theme is a vital part of any wrestlers persona and plays a major role in how they are received by the live audience. A great entrance theme can put a rising star on the average fans radar or propel an already established star to an unthinkable level, case in point, Chris Jericho’s Judas. However, many times wrestlers who aren’t particularly pinned by management for the main event scene are often saddled with any number of boring or reused stick music from the WWE library. While other companies such as AEW have shelled out some major bucks for song rights in the past year, we completely understand the sizable reason why this luxury cannot be afforded to everyone. That being said, some theme choices just seem too obvious to pass up!

Lunatic Fringe: Dean Ambrose

Now listen, Tony Khan’s recent Acquisition of Wild Thing for Moxley is a spot on fit, we’re not debating that. However, The WWE’s Dean Ambrose was a very different character entirely. Taking much of the hardcore and ruthless style Moxley was known for and toning it down, WWE startled the then Dean Ambrose with the monicker, Lunatic Fringe. Had this maybe just been “The Lunatic” maybe it would’ve had more legs, but I can honestly say I’ve never once heard the phrase “lunatic fringe” used outside of the 1981 Red Rider song of the same name. This was no one and done nickname either, it stuck with him his entire WWE career! You’d think at some point this would’ve been adapted to his entrance theme, maybe when he broke out from The Shield as a singles star, maybe after he won his first WWE Championship, or one of his big returns to the ring, but no. The opportunity was always there several times over, it would seem more than anything “The Fed” just didn’t want to spend the extra green on The Dean. This theme may have been the catalyst that took the Ambrose persona to a more serious and ruthless level, alas all we ever got were some awkwardly places sirens over the same old tune.

Be A Man: Randy Savage

Getting a little more specific on this one, Pomp and Circumstance is 100% the definitive Macho Man theme. The only song that could’ve possibly played the cream of the crop to the ring for all those glorious years, but we’re not talking WWF here, hell we aren’t even taking WCW. In a very unexpected turn of events The Macho King found himself signed to a TNA contract in 2004 just in time for his big debut at their Turning Point PPV. This wasn’t the robe wearing, colorful, catchphrase spouting Savage of old though. More reminiscent of his latter-day WCW gimmick, Savage was back in black, head-to-toe leather with a more serious demeanor than ever. This would’ve been the perfect time for Randy’s rap album Be A Man to be brought to the live wrestling audience. With the self titled track playing him too the ring, this much more grizzled and rough are kind the edges Savage would’ve been backed by his own fitting signature gravely voice, rather than some weird dance club inspired version of his classic theme.

Ziggy Stardust: Stardust

His name was Stardust. Stardust, how do you drop the ball on this. Presumably, the copyright for David Bowie must’ve been immaculate, however, if they planned to keep Cody in that silly little trash bag suit, which clearly they did, why not invest in it. There is a long standing theory in the wrestling world that Mr. McMahon has always forced the Rhodes family into ridiculous gimmicks and costumes in order to get back at Dusty and the NWA for opposing his product, be it yellow polka dots, the “Androgynous” Goldust, or … this thing, and we can’t help but believe that to be at least partially true. I mean for God sake, he even painted his face like Bowie upon the singers passing. Just imagine how much more of a presence, and less of a joke, this could’ve been with Cody walking to the ring as the Ziggy Stardust guitar riff blared behind him, you know the one.

Break On Through: John Morrison

This one legitimately bothers me to this day. The whole basis of the John Morrison gimmick is that he bares a striking resemblance to Doors front man Jim Morrison. Literally, look at his early presentation on WWECW, his attires, manner of speech, what he references, HIS DAMN FINISHING MOVE IS THE STARSHIP PAIN. He is a walking tribute to The Doors. So if someone could please explain to me what in the hell his entrance theme is suppose to sound like, because it damn sure ain’t Jim. The only thing I keep telling myself is that someone pitched the gimmick to the audio department and had to try and explain what The Doors sounded like without ever listening to them. “Yeah man, so it’s like, psychedelic 70s rock with heavy guitar influence then add some guy who sounds drugged out over it”. That’s the only logical explanation I have, and that’s no disrespect to Jim Johnston because he was a phenomenal asset to the company, by damn what the hell happened here. It doesn’t even have to be Break On Through, it could literally be ANY Doors song, Hell it could be a knock off instrumental cover of a Doors song. Something that makes sense is all I ask for, is that too much? Well, I’m WWE yes, yes it is.

Bonus Track

The Touch: Hulk Hogan

I just need this for one night only. Imagine it, the Nitro following the infamous “Finger Poke of Doom”, Hogan hits the ramp with the WCW/NWO World Title as “YOU’VE GOT THE TOUCH” blares behind him, flanked of course by the Touch-ee himself Big Sexy, Kevin Nash. You’d laugh, admit it.

Let us know what themes you think wrestlers should have been using down below and be sure to check out more blogs like this one right here!

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WWE Releases April 15, 2021 In Depth

Yes, exactly one year to the date after WWE’s mass talent purge due to COVID-19 it would seem they’re at it again. With seemingly no reason other than “budget cuts” The World Wrestling Entertainment has begun cutting a large and shocking mix of superstars which began on the evening of April 15th 2021 around 2pm eastern standard time. The following is the current list of all known releases at this time, check back for updates as the story progresses.

Billie Kay

The initial release reported by dirt sheets and WWE.com alike was for former Smackdown superstar Billie Kay. This release comes as a shock as Billie is fresh off a push that lead her to Wrestlemania in a losing effort as part of the Women’s Tag Team gauntlet match. With buzz already swarming around her abrupt firing, it seems it will not be long before we see Billie back inside a squared circle, the question now is where.

Twitter

Mickie James

Along side the aforementioned Billie Kay, WWE veteran and former Women’s champion, Mickie James was released from her WWE contract. Mickie had been very vocal about her opinions on “aging” women’s wrestles spot in the business as a whole in recent months but still thanked WWE Chairman Vince McMahon upon the news of her release for her time with the company and fond memories over the years. (Below)

Twitter

Tucker

One half of the former tag team “Heavy Machinery” alongside Otis, Tucker split from his long time partner in late 2020 following the Money In The Bank Pay-Per-View. Since then Tucker has largely been off TV, competing in the occasional multi-man match or appearing in backstage segments. It seems as though we’ll never get to see what Tucker’s singles run would’ve looked like in WWE. Interestingly enough, this release may be exactly what Tucker needed to get his singles career off the ground as following the break of his release, Tucker tweeter out this in response…

Twitter

Wesley Blake

Former member of NXT tag team “Blake and Murphy” as well as “The Forgotten Sons” Wesley Blake never got his fair shake at a main roster push. Seemingly always looked over in favor of his partners by WWE creative. Could we see the reunion of Forgotten Sons’s Steve Cutler with Blake relatively soon on the independent scene?

Chelsea Green

The release of popular NXT women’s main stay Chelsea Green came as a shock to many as the women’s wrestler appeared quite frequently on NXT TV and was highly regarded as one of the companies next big stars. Green’s partner former WWE superstar Matt Cardona, FKA Zack Ryder, took to Twitter upon the announcement to express his pure shock of the situation and to reassure Chelsea she is indeed a star! Ryder being one of last years “Black Wednesday” cuts and having appeared across a plethora of promotions since including Impact Wrestling, AEW, and a series of his own shows, should know a thing or two about success outside of the WWE umbrella.

Twitter

Kalisto

The man responsible for “good lucha things” is another interesting release on the part of WWE. Current member of the three man stable Lucha House Party, alongside Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik at the time of release, Kalisto is a former NXT Tag and United States champion in his own right. While not a regular feature on WWE TV, The Lucha House Party were one of few teams making up the current tag division. With the release of Kalisto, we only hope that his partners aren’t soon to follow suit.

Peyton Royce

The tag division once again in shambles as another team is out of the WWE picture. Peyton Royce, former member of the IIconics alongside Billie Kay, has also been released from her WWE contract. Peyton as well has her family have been very vocal over the past months starting their displeasure with the state of WWE’s women’s division and the idea that creative would rather have the same women become champion over and over again rather than affording opportunities to new talent. Could we possible see an IIconic reunion in a more “Elite” promotion int the near future?

Bo Dallas

Real life brother of Bray Wyatt and son of WWE legend I.R.S. Bo curiously survived last years cuts while his running partner Curtis Axel did not. This lead many to believe there were big plans in the world for Bo in relation to Bray’s new “Fiend” gimmick. While Bo has been missing from WWE programming since the 2019 Crown Jewel event, backstage sources report he may be in the process of transitioning out of wrestling and rather starting his own Real-estate agency. Whatever his plans are for life outside of the WWE, we genuinely do wish Dallas the best in future endeavors.

Twitter

Samoa Joe

Definitely the most shocking of the bunch released was wrestling veteran Samoa Joe. Joe is widely credited as one of the best wrestlers of his generation and has held the major title in almost every company he’s been a part of, ironically enough, excluding WWE. While Joe has been on the sideline with an injury for most of this past year, he has still remained a staple of weekly WWE programming serving as a play by play commentator for Monday Night Raw. Even more shocking, Joe’s last appearance with the company would be his role as a main commentator throughout both nights of Wrestlemania. With such a prime role and being such a hot acquisition, many are question the decision to release Joe. One thing remains certain, wherever he goes, Samoa Joe is sure to make an impact on their world title picture with fans already clamoring on Twitter for AEW and other wrestling promotions to sign the now free agent!

Twitter

These have been the releases from WWE on April, 15th 2021 thus far. Be sure to check back for updates as this story progresses. Let us know what you think of this batch of releases below or join in on the conversation as it continues on Twitter, where many superstars and companies alike remain very vocal as seen below!

UPDATED

Mojo Rawley

Mojo Rawley is the most recent member of the WWE roster released. Mojo was released on April 15th, 2021 around 7pm Eastern Standard Time.

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Everything You Need To Know About The WWE Network on Peacock

What you need to be aware of before switching to Peacock for WWE

Just a week removed from the WWE’s departure to the Peacock streaming service began and we’ve already seen some shocking and frightening things. Before you go and activate your Peacock service, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into.

WWE Network is Still Operational

Photo: WWE.com

For the time being, the WWE Network is still fully functional for subscribers. While the transition to Peacock has begun, The Network won’t officially be offline until after Summer Slam. While it is still unknown if the “biggest event of the summer” will be streaming in bother services, more likely than not Summer Slam will be the first Peacock exclusive PPV. However, The Network technically isn’t “shutting down” at all! Subscribers outside the US will continue to get the WWE Network as the Peacock agreement is only for The State, meaning while it’s not ideal, with use of a VPN you could still enjoy your regularly scheduled programming!

User Limitations

WSRR

Like we previously addressed, WWE’s full library isn’t set to be added to Peacock until after this year’s Summer Slam, however fans are skeptical whether or not the “Full” library will ever be readily available. Peacock’s social media team had been very unhelpful regarding these concerns addressing the Summer Slam plans but nothing further, not providing any detail on specific shows, or time frames. As it sits now, Peacock only has a limited amount of Wrestling for all the hype surrounding it. While Raw, Smackdown, and NXT can all be found, they are accompanied by a handful of seemingly randomly selected WWE PPVs and D-List originals. Above all else Peacock also lacks a user friendly interface. Providing no “Start over” option or even an option to pause shows, Peacock has come under fire from the public for their inability to fully enjoy events on their own schedule.

Censorship

Photo: Brian Pullman Jr. (Twitter)

The most recent news regarding the streaming service and seemingly the most upsetting is Peacock’s mission to censor all WWE content, past or present! Initially removing the infamous Roddy Piper v. Bad News Brown Wrestlemania VI for Pipers use of “half blackface” , the next victim would be Owner and real life chairman of the company Vince McMahon’s controversial use of a certain satirical racial slur from Survivor Series ‘05. While we’re not condoning either instance, the blatant removal of this content seems rather uncalled for. With many fans believing Peacock should’ve opted for the “Muppets approach” including an advisory label in the description rather than cutting the footage. According to new reports, Peacock will be sorting through ALL of the Network footage to censor content that could be deemed “offensive”, leaving many long time fans weary of how the beloved “Attitude Era” will be represented on this new platform. While we may not agree with the actions of the past, we more so do not condone the attempt to erase or cover up history.

With seemingly more backlash than excitement, the overall consensus from wrestling fans seems to be an overwhelming “no” when it comes to the Peacock switch. Will you be making the change? Let me know what you think of the new service below and don’t forget to check out more Wrestling articles right here!

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Randy Savagisms

What are the absolute greatest and most iconic Macho Man quotes of all time?

Oh Yeah! Macho Man Randy Savage is renowned as one of the absolute greatest of all time both in the ring and out. A character so large he became not only a sports entertainment icon but a pop culture icon as well! A name-stay of the 80s and 90s and still commonplace today, the late great Macho Man has certainly left his impact over multiple generations. With a aura about him that will seemingly ever fade, we’re looking back at some of the most iconic and quoted Randy Savage lines of all time, DIG IT!

Comparatively Speaking,

Combine your typical mumbled, adrenaline fueled, rage induced 80s wrestling promo with surpassing articulation and metaphors and you’ve got yourself a classic Randy Savage promo. Never had this been more evident than in the build up to The Macho Man’s Intercontinental Championship match against Champion Tito Santana. In a backstage interview for the history books with the legendary Mean Gene Okerlund, Savage began his now infamous rant by presenting a trash bin seemingly from nowhere before uttering the phenomenal line, “Tito Santana, Comparatively speaking you are nothing but garbage.” In an interview segment full of memorable lines and actions, including the iconic “Grain of Sand” bit, we’ve got to go with the one that started us down the rabbit hole!

Youtube.com: ZombiFloorCleaner

Funky like a monkey

Honestly It baffles me this one isn’t more commonplace in the casual discussion of Randy Savage! One of the most out there and wacky lines in his arsenal, The a Macho King would occasionally bust it out be it backstage or on talk shows! With a dead serious demeanor and without missing a cue only Savage could utter the iconic phrase, “The tower of power, Too sweet to be sour, Funky like a monkey, Sky’s the limit and space is the place.” And still come off as a total badass! Our overly sized rhinestone and feather hat is off to you King!

Youtube.com: ZZz 3rD eYe zZZ

You Can’t Say That!

Sometimes the best moments are blink and you miss it situations, and this entry is no exception! Finding ourselves backstage once again with Mean Gene, Randy Savage begins explaining to the analyst that he could beat Larry Bird on a basketball court, before then informing the viewing audience of his friendship with musician Rod Stewart! Recounting a phone call between the two Macho explains that “Macho Madness is more seductive than sex.” Which is only made greater by Mean Gene’s reaction of, “You can’t say that on Tv!” Tying it all together is the ever slick Macho Man retorting, “I can say that.” We can’t argue with that logic!

Youtube.com: ZombiFloorCleaner

Not a Racist!

In today’s day and age being called a racist simply because of a minor disagreement seems an unfortunate common place. While many artists, actors, and celebrities have found themselves in headlines over remarks they may or may not have made decades ago that are now deemed “inappropriate” Macho Man Randy Savage made his stance very clear on the issue of race. Appearing as a guest on the Arsenio Hall Show, Randy Savage walked out to the set head to toe in full wrestling gear. Upon sitting down to start the episode, Arsenio moved an ottoman out of shot to discuss Macho’s boots. When he began his question by addressing the fact Savage was in fact wearing one white and one black boot, Macho was too quick on the draw blurting out, “I’m not a racist!” This is why we love you Randy!

Youtube,com: Mike Funk

Snap Into It!

The Macho Man became a larger than life household name in part to his illustrious thEn WWF career, but it was his iconic Slim Jim commercials that brought The Macho King into homes to stay! One of the most quoted, imitated, and well known advertisements of all time, nothing since has seemed to have the lasting impact as that of Savages Slim Jim promotions! While they may have attempted to rekindle the magic in recent years, sorry Edge, but nothing will ever surpass the over the top enthusiasm of Randy Savage snapping into a Slim Jim!

RetroCommercial.com

(Honorable Mention)

With so many iconic lines and promos to dig through its nearly impossible not to leave any out. However, it just wouldn’t feel right to exclude the iconic “Cream of The Crop” promo! While rather than any specific line, this entire promo is solid gold! From savage’s wild movements around a rather confused Mean Gene, to him pulling seemingly an unending amount of creamer from out of thin air, Randy Savage proves in this interview alone that he truly is The Cream of the Crop!

Youtube.com: CGatto

Oh, Yeah!

It is absolutely impossible to talk about The Macho Man without mimicking his trademark, “Oh, Yeah!” Step aside Kool-Aid Man, The Macho King is the true innovator of the popular phrase. Present is almost every single Randy Savage promo ever recorded and transcending the world of spots entertainment, The Macho Man changed American Culture with his trademark voice and two simple words, Oh, Yeah!

Youtube.com: WWE

OH WOW MAN FREAK OUT!

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TNT Title Retired

All Elite Wrestling has officially retired the TNT Championship.

This week’s episode of AEW Dynamite showcased the life and career of the recently deceased Brodie Lee. Mr. Brodie Lee was a well respected and loved member of the AEW roster as well as the wrestling community. The evening was a beautiful display of wrestlers, friends, and family all joined together in honor of the former TNT Champion, Jon Huber. The match card presented was heavily influenced and designed by Brodie’s eight year old son, Brodie Jr who had quite the night himself. In the pinacol of the evenings celebration of life, AEW’s President Tony Khan as well as Vice President Cody Rhodes joined the Huber family in the ring to retire the boots of the beloved family man. Along with the symbolic retirement, Tony Khan also awarded Brodie Jr. the TNT Championship stating, his father was the greatest TNT Champion and will be known as “TNT Champion for life.”

In addition to the TNT Championship, Brodie Jr. was signed to an AEW contract. The contract states once the eight year old is of age to compete he will receive the proper training and a guaranteed spot on the roster.

You can watch the full segment below:

All Elite Wrestling – YouTube

The news of the title was broken by AEW commentator and veteran Tony Schiavone after the show went off air. According to All Elite Wrestling is is NOT the retirement of the championship but rather the current design which was held by the late Brodie Lee. The future design and current status of championship holder Darby Allin‘s title reign is currently unknown.

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Image courtesy of AEW’s Twitter

McMahon, Jonathan. “Tony Khan Announces TNT Title Is Retired And Gives The Title To Brodie Lee Jr.” BodySlam.net, 31 Dec. 2020, http://www.bodyslam.net/2020/12/30/tony-khan-announces-tnt-title-is-retired-and-gives-the-title-to-brodie-lee-jr/.

Quarrinton, Posted By: Norm. “AEW Retires Original TNT Championship Design In Brodie Lee’s Honor.” Pro Wrestling Sheet | Insider Wrestling News and Reports, 31 Dec. 2020, http://www.prowrestlingsheet.com/aew-retires-original-tnt-championship-design-in-brodie-lees-honor/.

Wrestling Rules That Are Completely Ignored

Completely Ignored Wrestling Rules

If you’ve sat in front of your TV set watching the weekly spectacle that is sports entertainment for the better part of a quarter of the last century, you’d probably think you’ve got a pretty solid grasp of the rules right? Legal men, tag ropes, the Shawn Michaels rule, all that good stuff! However, if then following rules have slipped past your radar over the years then fret not, the all mighty World Wrestling Entertainment seemingly doesn’t know about them either. The following are the most completely ignored wrestling rules of all time.

No Choke Holds

bleacherreport.com

We’re kicking it off with a duzy! You’re probably thinking to yourself, I’ve seen hundreds of choke holds! There are choke hold finishers! The Sleeper, Hell’s Gate, The Million Dollar Dream! The WWE officially banned choke holds due to the extreme risk involved with the legitimacy of the litany of choke hold varieties. However, the WWE later defined what exactly they consider a choke hold as, “a hand around the throat for a prolonged period of time”(sportskeeda.com) in order to preserve the use of widely known and famous move such as previously discussed.

30 Day Defense Rule

WWE.com

We’re looking at you 2013 Dean Ambrose US title reign. According to the official WWE rule book, a title must be defended at least once every 30 days, failure to do so may result in the championship in question being vacated. A rule seemingly forgotten about in recent years, oddly enough it began to become a talking point during the 2013 United States Championship run of Dean Ambrose. During his 351 day title reign, the internet wrestling community began to grow aggravated at the lack of title defenses by one Dean Ambrose. Citing the 30 day title defense rule, the community’s general consensus even became a throw away gag in WWE weekly programing as Dean’s fellow shield members as well as on screen authority figures began speculating when he would next defend the belt. Since then it would seem this rule has been once again quietly pushed under the rug.

The Outlaw Rule

retroprowrestling.com

Originating on a June 8th 1998 episode of Monday Night Raw, The New Age Outlaws found themselves defending the WWE World Tag Team Championships in a three way tag match against LOD 2000 and the D.O.A. During the match both Road Dogg and Mr. Ass found themselves as the respective legal man. Taking advantage of a newly found loophole in the match, Road Dogg laid down to Billy fo the 1-2-3 to retain the tag straps. In light of this, the following week WWE rolled out “The Outlaw Rule” stating that in the instance of two members of the same team being tagged in, a pin could not decide a victory. (Ironically enough, technically there is still a loophole about submission based victories.) Once again, WWE’s hazy memory has bested them as now seemingly a regular spot in any high profile three way tag match is the obligatory partner pin attempt.

The Power of Attorney Rule

wwe.com

Only ever mentioned once on an episode of WCW Nitro, The power of attorney rule grants a title holder the ability to transfer their championship to a fellow superstar upon a lengthy injury rather than be forced to vacate their belt. DO NOT BE MISTAKEN, THIS IS A TERRIBLE RULE. The grandest prize in the game should never be treated like a hand me down, and quite literally, be given to a competitor without properly earning it. Over in the WWE however, we have only ever seen one instance that vaguely resembles this. Upon the injury of WWE Tag Team Champion,Edge in the summer of 2009, tag team partner Chris Jericho claimed he would defend and hold the belts by himself. Unfortunately for Y2J, WWE on screen authority ruled he would either have to find a new tag partner to fill the spot of The Rated R Superstar, or be forced to vacate the belts. Enter The Big Show.

The Mask Rule

mandatory.com

You’ve heard it time and time again, typically during any Rey Mysterio match of the past two decades. “A Luchador’s mask is a symbol of his heritage and honor.” It would appear the WWE’s research of the art of Lucha Libre stops there however. In lucha culture, not only is the mask the previously mentioned symbol, it is HEAVILY protected. While in public, luchadors remain under the mask and some even go as far as to be buried in them. In order to showcase this importance, it is highly illegal to remove the mask of another fighter if not previously agreed upon in a match stipulation. The removal of a mask not only results in the disqualification of the match but typically is followed by a hefty fine, suspension, or termination. While WWE is no stranger to the mask vs. mask or mask vs. hair stipulation, they are also no stranger to the random shock removal of a mask just for cheap heat.

Those were just a handful of commonly ignored rules in the WWE, did you know about them? Let me know if you think these rules should be enforced, or any other rules that should have made the list below! Be sure to check out more blogs just like this one right here as well!

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Morrell, Jack. “10 Oddest Rules In Wrestling.” WhatCulture.com, WhatCulture.com, 4 Oct. 2018, whatculture.com/wwe/10-oddest-rules-in-wrestling.

Lars Sullivan In More Hot Water For Unsolicited Pics

Lars Sullivan Sends Unsolicited DMs

The October 9th 2020 WWE Draft marked the TV return of “The Freak” Lars Sullivan. Sullivan was drafted to Smackdown in shocking fashion following the tag team match of Miz and Morrison Vs. Jeff Hardy and Matt Riddle. This marked the first time Lars Sullivan had been seen on WWE TV since June 2019, when he was sidelined with a knee injury.

All may not be going to plan with Sullivan’s return however as new information about Lars Sullivan sending unsolicited nude photographs has surfaced. Sullivan is no stranger to falling victim to his own actions online, In December of 2019 videos surfaced of Sullivan’s past in the adult film industry under the name of Mitch Bennett.

Photo: EWrestling,com

Sullivan had also been under previous scrutiny for comments regarding race, sexual orientations, and inappropriate sexual comments about WWE Chief Brand Officer, Stephanie McMahon. The comments were found and showcased by a user on Reddit and feature forum comments on BodyBuilding.com from two separate accounts linked back to the wrestler posted between the years of 2007 and 2013. Sullivan has since issued an apology for the comments and was given the fine of $100,000 by WWE.

Photo: tpwwforums.com

The latest incident see’s WWE’s Lars Sullivan harassing a woman via Instagram and asking for pictures before then sending unsolicited pictures of his own. A Reddit thread was posted showing photographs of the conversations from Sullivan’s official account.

As of now there has not been any statement issued by Lars Sullivan or the WWE. Moving forward, what will this mean for the career of the newly returning Lars Sullivan?

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J, Nishant. “Lars Sullivan’s WWE Draft Status Reportedly Revealed.” Sports News, Sportskeeda, 11 Oct. 2020, http://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/lars-sullivan-wwe-draft-status-reportedly-revealed.

Upton, Felix. “Lars Sullivan Outed For Sending Unsolicited Inappropriate Messages To Married Woman.” Ringside News, 11 Oct. 2020, http://www.ringsidenews.com/2020/10/11/lars-sullivan-outed-for-sending-unsolicited-inappropriate-messages-to-married-woman/.

Gartland, Dan. “Lars Sullivan Apologizes for History of Offensive Remarks.” Sports Illustrated, 10 May 2019, http://www.si.com/wrestling/2019/05/10/wwe-lars-sullivan-controversy-racist-comments-apology.

Lars Sullivan’s Bigoted Past (Titus O’Neil Tweets) – TPWW Forums, http://www.tpwwforums.com/showthread.php?t=136207%2Fshowthread.php%3Ft.