Scott Steiner’s Son, Brock Rechsteiner, Offered WWE NIL Deal
Scott Steiner’s son, Brock Rechsteiner, just landed a WWE NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal, a monumental step in what could be a promising wrestling career furthering the Steiner family name in professional wrestling. The move has excited many within the wrestling community and outside of it, since this could be a new chapter for one of wrestling’s most iconic families. Brock Rechsteiner: The Athlete Brock Rechsteiner is currently making a reputation as a wide receiver for the Jacksonville State Gamecocks. At 6’2″ and weighing 225 pounds, Rechsteiner definitely has the height and mass evocative of his father in wrestling legend proportions. His talents have been unmatched in college football, where a skillful and potential player emerged. Football Career Highlights Throughout his three years playing football at the collegiate level, Rechsteiner has caught 16 passes for 246 yards with two touchdowns. The numbers aren’t necessarily eye-popping, but a big factor to take into consideration is that most of this production happened during his junior year. In that season, Rechsteiner played an essential role in one of the better seasons by the Gamecocks. This included going 9-5 and winning the Conference USA championship game before losing in the Cure Bowl. Probably the most memorable game was when Rechsteiner caught two passes for 90 yards, including an 85-yard touchdown, against Southern Miss. On that particular play, he had just demonstrated to NFL scouts how good he could be and hinted that he was also capable of many other good things in football, perhaps even wrestling. The Steiner Legacy First, one has to put the magnitude of Brock Rechsteiner’s WWE NIL offer into context regarding the rich wrestling heritage of the Steiner family. Scott Steiner: The Big Bad Booty Daddy Scott Steiner, the father of Brock, was a big legend in professional wrestling. With his insane strength, his peculiar charisma, and promos that have been etched in the memory of fans worldwide, Scott Steiner has indeed left an indelible mark on the industry. He gained success in three major wrestling promotions: WCW, World Wrestling Federation, and TNA23. Scott Steiner has captured many championships throughout his career, including the WCW World Heavyweight Championship, the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship, and numerous tag team championships alongside his brother Rick as part of the very popular Steiner Brothers tag team. His reinvention as the “Big Poppa Pump” character in the late 1990s cemented him as one of the most unique and memorable figures in professional wrestling. Rick Steiner vs. The Dog-Faced Gremlin The uncle of Brock is also a famous professional wrestler, known as Rick Steiner. He received the ring name of “Dog-Faced Gremlin.” Rick was pretty successful as a single wrestler and as a member of the Steiner Brothers. He won many championships during his career, such as the WCW World Television Championship and many tag team titles. Bron Breakker: The New Generation Brock’s cousin Bronson Rechsteiner, now going by the ring name Bron Breakker, has lots of waves running for him currently in the WWE, as he is the reigning Intercontinental Champion. From Breakker’s rise through the ranks in NXT to his successes on the main roster in such a short amount of time shows that family wrestling ability doesn’t necessarily end with this generation of the Steiners. WWE’s NIL Deal This offer of a WWE NIL deal to Brock Rechsteiner is a great opportunity for the young athlete and possibly another turn in the Steiner wrestling saga. What is a WWE NIL deal? NIL deals, or Name, Image, and Likeness deals, have become increasingly prevalent in collegiate athletics since recent changes to NCAA regulations. Such deals allow college athletes to profit from their personal brand while still maintaining amateur status. WWE’s NIL program, “Next In Line,” looks to find and cultivate the next WWE Superstars coming out of college athletics. The Offer That was an offer right from Paul Levesque, better known by his ring name of Triple H and now WWE’s Chief Content Officer. Such a high level of interest in Brock Rechsteiner underlines how promising he can be for them in becoming one of the main wrestling stars in the future. Mending Fences It’s particularly noteworthy to offer an NIL deal to Brock Rechsteiner because Scott Steiner has had a rather long history of being at odds with WWE, particularly with Triple H. Scott Steiner even acknowledged that he “left WWE a long time ago with a lot of hard feelings”. However, he has also stated that he’d put aside all that animosity if it would serve his son’s future career. Scott Steiner added, “I left with a lot of hard feelings, but at some point you gotta let it be. You can’t be angry the whole time. You can’t hold a grudge. Plus, some people that you have a grudge against probably don’t even know anyway, and I didn’t want to screw up anything for [Bron], so I just buried the hatchet. The reconciliation between Scott Steiner and WWE, facilitated by the potential of Brock’s wrestling career, adds another layer to an already intriguing storyline, showing family legacy as that one unifying point in the world of wrestling. Brock Rechsteiner’s Future While the WWE NIL deal offer is great, a path that he could take, Brock Rechsteiner’s future remains really open. Of course, he is an exceptional football player and might be thinking about heading into the NFL after college. But he also comes from a family that has been part of professional wrestling, and the call of joining their lines is very strong. Football Prospects Brock has been very solid on the football field, if unspectacular. Given his size, speed, and athleticism, he’s an intriguing prospect for professional football. It’s always a dicey proposition to try to determine who’s going to cut it at the NFL level, but Rechsteiner’s physical attributes and the family pedigree of athletic excellence he comes from might make him enticing to teams that look for raw potential. Wrestling Potential If Brock were to
John Cena’s Father Suggests Gunther As His WrestleMania Farewell Opponent
With 2025, John Cena’s illustrious WWE career is going to come to a close, as it has been announced that this will be his final year as an active in-ring competitor. Speculation has gone into overdrive with the 16-time world champion on his farewell tour as to who he will face at his last match at WrestleMania 41. Now, his father, John Cena Sr., has made a surprising statement, claiming that Gunther is the perfect opponent for his son’s WrestleMania swan song. The Father’s Choice In a recent interview with Sportskeeda’s Bill Apter, wrestling legend and beaming, proud dad John Cena Sr. chimed in with his thoughts on who his son might face off against at WrestleMania 41. The opponent he chose was the dominant Intercontinental Champion Gunther13. “I think you got two young men in there, and John’s still young, two different styles,” Cena Sr. said. “Gunther, if you look at his style, it’s more Greco-Roman; he’s right in there and does those smart wrestling snap moves when John is more about getting in, doing his thing, and making the win. I think it would be very interesting; I think they would complement each other. I think that would be one heck of a competition. More so, Cena Sr.’s explanation far exceeded the likelihood of having an entertaining match. He indeed claimed that Gunther represented the peak of current WWE talent, stating, “I just think Gunther right now is at the peak of his career. He’s the best of the best. On Road to WrestleMania 41: John Cena’s road to his final WrestleMania began on January 6, 2025, when he made a triumphant return on the debut episode of Monday Night Raw on Netflix16. During this appearance, Cena announced his intention to enter the 2025 Royal Rumble match, setting his sights on a path to WrestleMania 41 and potentially his record-breaking 17th world title. This has, of course, set off a firestorm of speculation and excitement among fans, with the tease of Cena capturing one last world championship before retiring becoming a major storyline in the WrestleMania season. Gunther Factor Gunther is the current Intercontinental Champion and has taken WWE by storm in a very short period of time. His dominating reign and skill inside the ring have him respected by all fans and peers alike. John Cena Sr. vouching for Gunther to be the perfect opponent for his son speaks volumes about this Austrian wrestler’s impact in the industry. The potential clash between Cena and Gunther would indeed be a study in contrasts. Gunther’s technical, hard-hitting style would provide an interesting foil to Cena’s more power-based, crowd-pleasing approach. This stylistic clash could result in a memorable and fitting final WrestleMania match for the Cenation Leader. Other Potential Opponents While Gunther is John Cena Sr.’s preferred choice, several other names have been thrown out as potential opponents for Cena’s final WrestleMania match. Among the most prominent is current WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. There are rumors of discussions taking place backstage regarding a potential bout between Cena and Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41, where two of the biggest superstars in WWE would go up against each other. However, John Cena Sr. does not appear to be too excited about such a match even taking place: “I don’t see that happening. I think that match is reserved for The Rock; I really do. I think you’re going to see The Rock against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41. Significance of the 17th Title That leaves in the air, as one of many fascinating storylines from his final run, the very strong possibility that he will leave with a record 17th world championship, thereby eclipsing Ric Flair, who is the all-time co-leader at 16 title reigns. What that does is paint a pretty poetic picture: the scenario where Cena secures his legacy, arguably as the best WWE Superstar of all time. So adding more curiosity towards seeing him at WrestleMania 41 is, in fact, his pursuit of that 17th title. Whether against Gunther, Rhodes, or whomever, the stakes would be higher if a world title is on the line. The Farewell Tour Cena’s journey to WrestleMania 41 is a part of the whole farewell tour, which actually will envelop the whole of 2025. This will afford multiple chances for all viewers to see this legend go at it one final time. Triple H, the Chief Content Officer of WWE, has stated several times how big this farewell tour is. In one interview, he had this to say: “The farewell tour will extend throughout 2025, including live shows, TV tapings, and premium live events.” This whole tour goes to show that WWE really wants to send Cena off into the sunset as befits his legend status. WrestleMania 41 Stage WrestleMania 41 promises to be the one for the history books, held on April 19th and 20th, 2025, in Las Vegas. The event would, in truth, give Cena the best stage, whoever the opponent for his last-ever WrestleMania match. The buzz for the event has already begun, as WWE has been releasing promotional videos featuring Cena himself. In one video, Cena is teasing fans about his opponent, saying, “We have all heard the rumors; we have all questioned who is going to show up. You will never be able to see if you don’t get the combo ticket, so act now because after this, you can’t see me. The Legacy of John Cena Now, with a WrestleMania swan song in the offing, some incredible WWE legacy is to be recalled: from a 2002 debut, Cena has become one of the most hailed and decorated superstars in the company’s history. His 16 reigns as world champion, as well as his multiple Royal Rumble match victories and countless memorable matches, have cemented his status among the all-time greats in professional wrestling. Outside of what he has done in the ring, Cena can be considered a real crossover star due to the work
Roman Reigns To Compete In Royal Rumble Amidst Ongoing Rivalries
Roman Reigns, the former Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, will be making his surprise return to the Royal Rumble match for the first time in five years. This is the unexpected twist that has sent shockwaves into the WWE Universe and is going to reshape the landscape of professional wrestling in 2025. The Return of the Tribal Chief to Rumble The surprising announcement was made by Roman Reigns’ manager, Paul Heyman, on the January 10, 2025 episode of SmackDown. Heyman announced that Reigns declared himself for the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble Match, marking his first appearance since 2021.This was soon after he defeated Solo Sikoa in a Tribal Combat match at the WWE RAW premiere on Netflix and reclaimed his position as Tribal Chief upon recovering the Ula Fala. This, therefore, makes Reigns’ entry at the Royal Rumble extremely crucial. As much as he was a Royal Rumble winner and also highly dominant in the WWE for some time, there is instantly a lot of interest in such an event, accompanied by a significant amount of stakes involved. His involvement in the said event also implies a probable change in character for him in pursuit of championship gold once again. The Road to Royal Rumble 2025 The Royal Rumble has always taken place on the third weekend in January every year. However, the 38th annual Royal Rumble was announced to be Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. The event will mark the very first time the Royal Rumble has taken place in February instead of January. It can be watched through pay-per-view or via livestream; internationally, besides the United States, it can be seen on Netflix. The Royal Rumble match itself is one of the most popular and highly anticipated WWE events. Thirty wrestlers will enter the ring at timed intervals with the goal of eliminating their opponents by throwing them over the top rope. The last wrestler standing earns a world championship match at WrestleMania 41. Star-Studded Competition Roman Reigns will be in for some stiff competition as he looks to win the Royal Rumble. A number of high-profile superstars have already declared their intentions to compete, including: John Cena: The 16-time world champion announced 2025 would be his retirement tour and is gunning for a record-breaking 17th world title. CM Punk: The “Best in the World” made his shocking return to WWE in late 2023, looking to recapture championship gold. Seth Rollins: The current World Heavyweight Champion may enter the Rumble to control his destiny at WrestleMania 21. Other possible entrants include rising stars such as LA Knight and Bron Breakker and established veterans like Randy Orton and Drew McIntyre. The mix of legends, current champions, and hungry up-and-comers promises to make the 2025 Royal Rumble one of the most competitive and unpredictable in recent memory. Ongoing Rivalries and Storylines Roman Reigns enters the Royal Rumble in a complex web of current rivalries and developing storylines that will see some sort of payoff during the match: The Bloodline Series The recent win of Reigns over Solo Sikoa in the Tribal Combat match re established his supremacy within the faction, but there is still a simmering cauldron of tension beneath the surface, with questions about Jimmy Uso’s loyalty and the looming presence of Jacob Fatu and Tama Tonga. The Royal Rumble could be a platform on which these family feuds explode. Unfinished Business with Cody Rhodes Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes still remains a thorn in his side. The announcement by Paul Heyman that Reigns will be entering the Royal Rumble called out Rhodes directly, and it certainly appears the Tribal Chief is gunning for the championship he lost. A confrontation between the two in the Rumble match could set up an epic WrestleMania showdown. The Rock Factor Speculation continues to swirl about a dream match between Roman Reigns and his real-life cousin, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. With The Rock’s participation unconfirmed for the Royal Rumble, the event could be the perfect launching pad for this long-anticipated family feud. Strategies and Predictions Being the previous winner of the Royal Rumble and arguably one of the most dominant forces in WWE history, Roman Reigns has already got a giant advantage over the other competitors. His power, years of experience, and cunning make him formidable in any environment, but that of a Royal Rumble. The strategy that could be instigated with Reigns would include a smattering of alliances, taking out the common threats, and then turning on your partners. There could also be some play on his association with The Bloodline in some coordinated efforts to clear the ring of other competitors. But Reigns will also have a target on his back. As a former long-reigning champion and one of the most polarizing figures in WWE, he’ll face opposition from all corners. Younger wrestlers will see eliminating Reigns as a career-defining moment, while his established rivals will look to settle scores. The betting odds have John Cena as the favorite to win the 2025 Royal Rumble, coming in at 6/5 odds. However, Roman Reigns’ late addition to the match may turn over those projections. Roman Reigns and his star power, along with his strong storyline momentum, make him a very real candidate to emerge victorious. Potential Outcomes and Implications The winner of the 2025 Royal Rumble will go on to set the landscape of WWE heading into WrestleMania 41. Here are some of the possibilities: Roman Reigns Wins: That would present him with a very easy path into taking on Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania. That will make it the rematch from that incredible WrestleMania 39 match, with the perfect scenario to conclude this long storyline between them. Cena Wins: A John Cena win here would align him for his record-breaking 17th world championship. Such a scenario would pit Cena against Reigns at WrestleMania—a battle of two generational talents and the fitting send-off to Cena’s illustrious career. Dark Horse Win: An upset
WWE Hall Of Famer Rikishi Proposes Bloodline-Themed Premium Live Event
For years, the Bloodline saga has been perhaps the most compelling and longest-arc storyline for WWE fans. And with the continued unfolding drama, a very exciting new twist has been floated by WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi that could take this faction’s story to as-yet unseen heights. Rikishi’s Vision for a Bloodline Spectacle Speaking on his “Off The Top” podcast, Rikishi gave his take on what this storyline with Bloodline needs-new. There needs to be a different style of match that no one would have ever thought about before, something a little crazy—something the audience isn’t very used to: a match where the crowd wasn’t certain exactly what to anticipate. So, what is his idea? Create something special—a name for the actual premium live event for Bloodline with a featured match, unheard of in any history of WWE. Rikishi would want a really big, climactic finish to the Bloodline saga to fit the dramatic build-up. He called for a “big gimmick match” that goes beyond traditional formats like Hell in a Cell. The concept from the WWE legend is truly ambitious: multiple rings and cages to create a spectacle worthy of the storyline’s intensity. The Three-Ring Dome Concept The heart of Rikishi’s proposition was a revolutionary setup for a match. He said, “Let’s put three rings together. Let’s build a certain type of dome for three rings…there’s so much that those boys can do with a gimmick type of match like that. A multi-ring setup with a custom-designed dome over it would surely prove to be a very interesting sight for both the performers and the audience. This isn’t a totally new concept in professional wrestling; with WCW’s WarGames matches, involving two rings side by side, and even TNA Wrestling trying something with a triple cage. But Rikishi’s idea really takes that into a whole different direction with multiple rings and an overarching dome to create an environment never seen before. Benefits that might be accrued from a bloodline-themed event: Storytelling Opportunities It would give WWE a real opportunity to dig into some of the deep history and complicated relationships involved in the Anoa’i family. From Rikishi himself to Yokozuna and Umaga, the roots of the Bloodline run deep. The theme could dig into the family ties with a themed event that perhaps incorporates video packages or special appearances by other family members to enhance the storyline. Talent Showcase Through their bloodline comes a launching pad for superstars in WWE, such as Roman Reigns, The Usos, and Solo Sikoa. A thematic event would definitely provide the star-powered runway for these talented performers, joined by possible faction additions, and would show a lot of skill from them in one high-stakes environment. Other prospects could be open to up-and-coming talent from the Anoa’i family heritage also making their spot. Unique Merchandising and Branding Opportunities It means a Bloodline premium live event—a whole new level of WWE merchandising and branding: event-exclusive merchandise, thematic sets and staging, special commemoratives—make this a premium event worth watching and collecting. Potential Challenges and Considerations While the idea presented by Rikishi is without a doubt catchy, there is a lot that WWE would have to consider before investing in such a big idea. Logistical Challenges Setting up three rings within a custom-built dome structure would be quite an undertaking from a production standpoint. WWE would have to think deeply about how such a set-up would work, from sight lines for the live audience to camera positioning for television broadcasts to the overall safety of the structure. Maintaining Story Continuity From the minute development in plot over the past years to character arcs, all was well thought out in the Bloodline storyline. Any new addition to an event or match type would need to seamlessly make sense and integrate with the continuing narrative without appearing forced and hindering the momentum. Balancing Spectacle with In-Ring Action While the aesthetic effect of a multi-ring dome structure would be an interesting sight to see, there’s the reality that WWE should be taking into serious consideration: having a match format that complements rather than takes away from the in-ring action. The rules and structure of the match would have to be specifically designed so that the setup can be exploited fully without impinging on the wrestler’s ability to tell a story through his performance in the ring. The Current State of the Bloodline The context of the storyline, for that matter, is pretty important to understand the potential impact of Rikishi’s proposal. The faction has been dominant in WWE for years, with Roman Reigns holding the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship for an unprecedented reign. However, recent events have seen cracks forming within the group. At Money in the Bank, Jimmy and Jey defeated Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa in a Bloodline Civil War matchup, where the former scored, via pin, the first-ever pinfall of Reigns dating back to 201921; this would exacerbate the in-group tension at the hands of Reigns himself and Sikoa as they blindsided the Usos on SmackDown, hospitalizing Jimmy in the process. These developments have given way to the possible showdown between Jey Uso and Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship, perhaps at SummerSlam 202321. This could be a pivotal moment in the Bloodline saga if it happens and maybe set up something even bigger down the line. The Legacy of the Anoa’i Family Much of the power of the Bloodline storyline is rooted in real-life connections within the wrestling dynasty of the Anoa’i. Understanding these relationships adds depth to the on-screen drama and helps explain why a Bloodline-themed event could be so compelling. Roman Reigns is the leader of The Bloodline and the son of WWE Hall of Famer Sika Anoa’i. The Usos, Jimmy and Jey, along with Solo Sikoa, were all sons of Rikishi, thus first cousins once removed to Reigns. That rather complex family tree further extends into other legendary wrestlers such as Yokozuna and Umaga, developing quite the tapestry of wrestling history to pull from
Maryse Mizanin Prioritizes Motherhood Over WWE Return
Former WWE Divas Champion and reality television star Maryse Mizanin has spoken for the first time as a mom of two about how those priorities shifted career aspirations inside or outside of World Wrestling Entertainment. While speaking in an exclusive interview with People Magazine, on the whole, sobriety came with a real challenge: trying to strive for a mommy and pro versus choosing to be a parent over attempting in-ring work against the WWE rings. A Storied WWE Career Before discussing Maryse’s current status, let’s go back and understand her fantastic background in professional wrestling. Maryse Ouellet Mizanin was born on January 21, 1983, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, and first entered the WWE scene as a finalist in the 2006 Diva Search competition. She didn’t win the competition, but her potential was taken into notice, and she was signed to a contract with WWE. Maryse soon managed to hold herself within the ring as a stubborn opponent. She faced the proper WWE training in farmlands like Ohio Valley Wrestling and Florida Championship Wrestling before landing herself with SmackDown in the year 2008. With in-ring talent, adding up some strikes, along with an oozy charm, the game was pretty near getting into the women’s division where one could already have reached above all. In December 2008, Maryse achieved her first major feat in her career when she defeated Michelle McCool to win her first WWE Divas Championship. That would not be all for this beauty in terms of championships. In the year 2010, she became the first two-time Divas Champion and held the title for a single reign for as long as 216 days. That made her one of the most dominant female wrestlers of her era. Transition to Management and Reality TV Since leaving WWE in 2011, Maryse has been pursuing other ventures both within and outside the circle of wrestling. Her career reached an interesting point in April 2016 when she made the surprising return to WWE as a manager for her real-life husband, The Miz. In that position, it put Maryse in an active role that let her wit and cunning come into play, helping The Miz find his way to success inside the ring. Their on-screen chemistry and real-life relationship sparked interest among fans and executives alike. In 2018, Maryse and The Miz got their own reality TV show, “Miz & Mrs.,” which follows behind-the-scenes of the WWE Superstars and new parents. The show has really done quite well with the audience, having run multiple seasons so far and giving the fans a peek into how challenging it is to balance such a highly visible career with family life. Everything is Changed by Motherhood Over the last couple of years, Maryse has become quite focused on being a mom. She and her husband, The Miz, welcomed their first daughter, Monroe Sky, born in 2018, followed by their second, Madison Jade, in 2019. Becoming a parent greatly changed her perspective and priorities. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Maryse discussed the wild ways motherhood has changed her and her decisions around her career. “As much as we love what we do, the kids are now priority and number one,” she said. With such changes in priorities, Maryse has used this opportunity to reassess just how much she is investing in the exhausting world of professional wrestling. There are several challenges in juggling a WWE career with motherhood. Especially for parents with young kids, the grueling travel schedule, physicality of in-ring performance, and time away from family are the most difficult. Maryse was candidly honest about her own struggles in finding a balance: “Especially as a woman, it’s difficult with two kids. I can’t travel that way. And then I don’t want to.” Choosing Family Over Fame The decision of Maryse to not return full-time to WWE competition for the sake of her children speaks to what it means to be a mother. She left little doubt as to her feelings: “I want to be there for my kids. And that’s what makes me happy. I want to go to bed at night and know that I’m in the same house as my kids, so as much as I love the business—I miss it—I choose my kids.” The latter is what connects to the dilemma of many parents who face similar predicaments in their career paths. More so, professional wrestling usually encompasses an unbearable work schedule, considering the time investment required on tour and preparing bodies for the grind in the ring. Maryse’s choice pinpoints how seriously difficult options lay ahead for women in wrestling, much like other fields, once the family-building stage is considered. The Challenges of “Mom Guilt” Maryse has been candid about feeling “mom guilt,” as many working mothers do. She once shared in an interview, “I’m with them all day, every day, but I sometimes feel like it’s never enough. The mom guilt is really something that not many moms talk about. You leave your house for an hour, and you feel guilty about it.” Many mothers can relate to this feeling as they fight to be present for their children while keeping their professional ambitions. Maryse’s honesty about these feelings normalizes the experience for other working mothers and sheds light on the emotional challenges often unspoken. The Miz’s Take Although Maryse has stepped back from active competition, her husband, The Miz, is still very relevant in WWE. In this same PEOPLE interview, The Miz spoke to the balance between fatherhood and his wrestling career: “I love my kids to death. And I try to find that healthy balance of fulfilling our dreams—but also because we want to show our kids if you have a dream, go after it and do what you have to do. But you also have to be that parent and that dad.” The different approaches the couple has toward their careers after the baby really bring out how personal such decisions are. While The Miz is still chasing his
Shinsuke Nakamura Vs. LA Knight: A Clash of Styles For The United States Championship
The January 10, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown had one of the most-anticipated rematches for the United States Championship, pitting current champion Shinsuke Nakamura against former titleholder LA Knight, a bout pitting contrasting styles and personalities that have captured the WWE Universe in recent months. The Road to the Rematch The rivalry between Nakamura and Knight began at the end of 2024 when Nakamura made a sudden return to WWE television after a considerable time away. Clad in a new, darker persona with ominous face paint, Nakamura made a beeline for the-United States Champion LA Knight by delivering a merciless attack. That set up their first championship showdown at Survivor Series: WarGames on November 30, 2024. In a hard-fought contest, Nakamura came out on top to secure his third United States Championship1. The victory snapped Knight’s remarkable 119-day tenure as champion, which had started when he bested Logan Paul at SummerSlam 2024. For weeks, Knight was singularly focused on recapturing the title he felt was unfairly taken from him. One week after making a statement with an explosive attack on Nakamura, Knight finally got his rematch for the January 10 edition of SmackDown. Contrasting Styles and Personas What makes this rivalry so compelling is the huge contrast between Nakamura and Knight, in terms of both in-ring style and overall character. Shinsuke Nakamura is a man known to many as “The King of Strong Style,” bringing a hard-hitting, strike-based offense cultivated over many years of competition in Japan4. At 44 years young, Nakamura is a seasoned veteran with an impressive pedigree, touting three reigns as IWGP Heavyweight Champion in New Japan Pro-Wrestling37. His recent turn into the character of a dark, sadistic persona has only grown on his already formidable presence. Meanwhile, LA Knight represents more of a classic, WWE style of main event. At 41, Knight finally finds himself on the upside of a career revival after almost 20 years in the Indies38. His over-the-top arrogance and catchphrase-heavy promos have likened him to superstars of WWE lore like The Rock and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. Knight relies on powerful moves in-ring and that rare never-say-die-attitude that fans grew to love him for. The Championship Bout From the bell sounding, signaling the start of their United States Championship match, two contrasting styles from Nakamura and Knight were evident. The two rivals locked up with each other to the point where neither competitor gave in; they found themselves in a stalemate with abilities even from each other. 48. Eventually Knight’s power advantage gave him control of the match, as he took Nakamura out of the ring and brutally slammed the champion’s head off the announce table several times. That said, Nakamura was a crafty veteran with ways to counter Knight’s offense with his variety arsenal of strikes and submission holds. In such instances, the champion’s versatility kept pushing Knight outside his comfort zone and was forcing him to change things on the fly. These two men continued to go all out, trying each and every move in the ring, as Knight jumped high for the top rope and leaped into the ring to make a superplex attempt, and Nakamura put a reverse Boston crab to prove his submission skills. The bout intensified as Nakamura connected with his devastating Kinshasa knee strike. However, Knight showed his resilience by getting his foot on the rope before the referee could count to three. This near-fall had the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats, believing a title change might be imminent. As a last resort, Nakamura tried using an exposed turnbuckle in his favor, to which Knight would manage to reverse and send the champion first into the steel with his knee exposed. The shooken Nakamura, who was looking all sorts of shook, took the time to try and regain the championship. Setting himself up for the BFT to try to punctuate an inspiring comeback story with an exclamation mark. Chaos Erupts Just as it seemed like LA Knight was about to regain the United States Championship, bedlam broke out at ringside. Jacob Fatu and Tama Tonga, members of the newly formed Bloodline faction, stormed the ring and attacked Knight50. The interference from them meant the referee had no choice but to call for the bell, thus ruling the match a disqualification. Although Knight technically won the bout, Nakamura retained his championship due to the nature of the finish. The Bloodline’s attack on Knight was likely retaliation for an earlier backstage altercation between the parties50. The former champion continued to get pummeled by Fatu and Tonga until reinforcements arrived in the form of Cody Rhodes and Jimmy Uso50. The two fan favorites rushed in and sent the Bloodline members packing before setting up an impromptu tag team main event later in the evening. The Bigger Picture: State of the United States Championship This is the Shinsuke Nakamura versus LA Knight rivalry that seems to be really rejuvenating the United States Championship and putting a little more stock in what has oft been an overlooked title within the brand of SmackDown. Historically, the United States Championship has felt like a launching pad for rising stars or a consolation prize for established veterans. The intensity and star power involved in this current feud have made the title feel like a true prize worth fighting for. Moments will not be short in supply, though, when considering Nakamura’s reign as champion, still in its youth. His transition into the character of a dark, brooding menace has added a sense of gravitas to his championship reign. The fact that a wrestler of Nakamura’s caliber and international renown holds the title speaks to its growing importance. Equally as captivating, however, has been the chase from LA Knight for the title that he never lost. Few stories inside WWE have resonated louder during the past 12 months than the one regarding Knight’s meteoric rise. A win in the United States Championship represents tangible evidence of Knight ascending the WWE pecking
Chelsea Green Retains WWE Women’s Title Against Michin
At SmackDown on January 10, 2025, Chelsea Green defeated Michin to retain the WWE United States Women’s Championship to stay the inaugural champion and continue the brewing rivalry. The Road to the Title Match A long-standing feud between Chelsea Green and Michin has been going strong since the late months of 2024. Things went to another level between the pair in the form of the first-ever female Dumpster Match in company history, won by Michin after Green had been thrown off a raised table into the waiting dumpster. However, Green would gain revenge on December 14, 2024, at Saturday Night’s Main Event, when she defeated Michin in the finals of a tournament to become the first-ever WWE Women’s United States Champion. Green’s win on Saturday Night’s Main Event was incredibly controversial, as it was her tag team partner Piper Niven who provided the distraction that sealed the deal for Green to win. That left Michin hungry for a redemption and conquest of the title she felt rightfully belonged to her. Tensions continued to build in the coming weeks heading into their SmackDown rematch. Michin made it known she wasn’t finished with chasing the championship, going so far as to crash Green’s official title celebration and attack Niven with a kendo stick. Meanwhile, Green enjoyed her new status of champion, becoming boastful and irritating to fans and fellow superstars alike. The Championship Match This highly publicized rematch took place on the January 10, 2025 episode of SmackDown at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. As the first champion, this was Green’s maiden title defense since capturing the championship less than a month prior. A golden intensity shown by both females as it was obvious from the sound of the bell that nobody was leaving without that gold. Michin was out aggressive, trying to hit her Eat Defeat very early in the match in hopes of catching Green off guard for a quick end to the match. However, the crafty Green avoided the move and was able to roll to the outside to regroup with Niven. The action spilled in and out of the ring as the two rivals battled hard. Green used her guile and experience to control large parts of the match, while Michin’s never-say-die attitude saw her fight back into the contest repeatedly. Piper Niven’s presence at ringside proved a constant threat as Michin was forced to keep one eye on her opponent and one on Green’s towering ally. The more the match went, the more it wore into Michin’s favor: a kick sent Niven off, then a front-flip senton off the ring apron onto Green’s partner sent him temporarily out of the equation, and Michin was quick in capitalizing on the opening to go on offense against the champion. The climax of the match saw Michin ascend to the top rope, poised to hit a high-risk maneuver on Green. A picture-perfect crossbody was connected, but Green utilized her ring awareness to roll through the move. In the controversial finish, Green grabbed a handful of tights from behind Michin to leverage pinning her challenger’s shoulders onto the mat. The referee’s hand came down for the three-count, and Chelsea Green had retained her championship. Aftermath and Consequences In fact, the manner in which the match was won has left many fans and commentators arguing whether this victory by Green was fair and square. Yes, she pinned Michin’s shoulders, but doing that with tights certainly put a damper on the win. This controversial finish is likely to add fuel to their ongoing feud, as Michin can rightfully claim she was cheated out of the championship. Immediately after the bell, Piper Niven made her presence known once again by running a senton on Michin. The post-match attack only solidified the alliance between Green and Niven, leaving Michin laid out in the ring. The victory kept Chelsea Green’s singles record against Michin at 2-1. More importantly, she successfully defended her newly won championship for the first time in a successful title defense, which lends some merit to her reign as the inaugural WWE Women’s United States Champion. Chelsea Green’s Reign as Champion The title win and defense by Green marked a big milestone in her WWE career. Having captured the championship at Saturday Night’s Main Event, she became one half of the first husband-wife duo to hold both the men’s and women’s United States Championships, as her husband, Matt Cardona, formerly known as Zack Ryder in WWE, had held the men’s version of the title. It wasn’t an easy road to the championship for Green. She had suffered several setbacks and losses throughout 2024 on WWE programming. Still, her persistence and the ability to maximize screen time with character work paid off in the end. For many, this was seen as a well-deserved win considering her efforts throughout the year at Saturday Night’s Main Event. As champion, Green has really leaned into the role, cranking her already over-the-top personality up to new heights. She has become increasingly demanding and annoying to authority figures such as Adam Pearce and Nick Aldis—to the delight of fans who have enjoyed her antics. Being paired with Piper Niven furthered an interesting dynamic in regard to her championship reign, giving her backup and therefore even more possibilities regarding storyline progression. Future United States Women’s Championship This, indeed, has made the start to the WWE Women’s United States Championship a really interesting deal since its inauguration with Chelsea Green. In itself, the championship adds novelty to what women in that division work towards, and hence the possibilities with regards to newer storylines or even character developments expand. Green’s character work and in-ring abilities make her an ideal first champion to establish the importance of the title. Her ability to generate heat from the audience ensures that whoever eventually dethrones her will receive a significant boost in popularity. The rivalry with Michin that has been ongoing is a great basis for the early storyline of the championship going forward.
Bayley Becomes No. 1 Contender For WWE Women’s Championship
Bayley won a hard-hitting Fatal 4-Way match on the January 10, 2025 episode of WWE SmackDown to become the new No. 1 challenger for the WWE Women’s Championship. The win provided her with the title match against the newly crowned champion Tiffany Stratton that was made for the following week’s SmackDown on January 17, 2025. Road to Contendership Her path to the contender status was nice and smooth with serious competition and a host of drama-rich moments. Some of the huge names took to the ring for the Fatal 4-Way match: Bayly, Nia Jax, Bianca Belair, and Naomi—all strong enough to see the other in the ring was doing their ultimate best for the great WWE Women’s Championship opportunity up for grabs. Rich talent and high-voltage action marked the match. The fans at the venue saw an unbelievable sequence of Tower of Doom and Bayley delivering an avalanche move in the most agile manner. The match was choreographed and steamrolling at most moments, with each of these superstars giving it their best to win the No. 1 contender position. One of the high points in the match came when Belair and Bayley had an exciting exchange; fans in attendance were left salivating at the prospect of a one-on-one match featuring these two behemoths. The crowd also caught wind of a Belair versus Naomi match, which got them hyped and showcased just how deep the women’s division is. The Decisive Moment As the match heated up, action spilled outside the ring: Bianca Belair and Nia Jax went over the announcer’s table in a wild brawl.The distraction at this point in the match proved critical as Bayley was able to capitalize on the situation inside the ring. In a shocking twist, Candice LeRae suddenly emerged at ringside—ostensibly to try and distract Nia Jax. LeRae’s interference backfired when she snatched Belair’s patented braid, with The EST whipping her tag team partner Naomi, of all people, with her hair. Seizing the moment, Bayley quickly capitalized on the bedlam. Hitting the Rose Plant on a stunned Naomi4—with Belair and Jax still fighting it out on the outside of the ring—Bayley scored the pinfall victory to become the new No. 1 contender for the WWE Women’s Championship. The Champion: Tiffany Stratton Bayley’s win now sets up an eagerly awaited matchup against the current WWE Women’s Champion, Tiffany Stratton. The self-proclaimed “Center of the Universe” shocked the WWE Universe just a couple of weeks ago when she cashed in her Money in the Bank contract on Nia Jax to capture the title. The rise of Stratton has been meteoric. In a telling promo on the same night that Bayley won, Stratton addressed the crowd for the first time as champion and showed just how her months-long plan of fooling Nia Jax—acting like the naive little buddy to strike when the time came—was pulled off to perfection with her Money in the Bank cash-in. Confidence exuded from the new champion as she pronounced it “officially Tiffy Time” and called for respect from the WWE Universe. But her time at the top of the mountain lasted all of a few minutes, as she quickly found herself confronted by a litany of potential challengers, including Nia Jax, Bayley, and WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Naomi and Bianca Belair. The Challenger: Bayley’s Journey Bayley’s path here to this opportunity at the championship has been very long and somehow instructive. For being one of the veterans within WWE’s Women’s Division, Bayley had been proving herself among the most apt and versatile talents in the company. Dubbed “The Role Model,” Bayley has grown much in character throughout her career in the WWE—from the lovable hugger in NXT to the current, more aggressive, and determined competitor—she has indeed shown remarkable adaptability and growth. Her list of accomplishments is impressive: Two-time WWE Raw Women’s Champion Two-time WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Former NXT Women’s Champion Two-time WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion 2019 Money in the Bank winner 2024 Royal Rumble winner Specifically, Bayley is the first-ever WWE Women’s Triple Crown Champion and Grand Slam winner in history. Her 380-day run as the SmackDown Women’s Champion is one of the longest runs in that title’s history with Rhea Ripley. The Championship Match Build-Up Not just any championship match, but a clash of the new generation versus experience and styles, the upcoming title match between Tiffany Stratton and Bayley is more than that. The young, brash champion that is Stratton represents the new wave in WWE talent, and the sudden rise to the top of the women’s division has been nothing short of spectacular. She will be looking to prove that this was no fluke in winning her championship. On the other hand, Bayley brings a wealth of experience and a chip on her shoulder. In a backstage interview following her victory in the Fatal 4-Way match, Bayley reminded everyone of her history with Stratton. She pointedly mentioned that despite facing Stratton multiple times throughout the year, the new champion has never managed to defeat her. This adds an extra layer of interest in the impending championship match because Bayley is confident not just due to her win from her last match but rather on account of her record against Stratton. It really gives way to quite a nice story: Can the grizzled veteran take down the young champion, or will Stratton finally break through and beat Bayley on the grandest stage? The Importance of the Match The WWE Women’s Championship match between Tiffany Stratton and Bayley has immense ramifications for both competitors and the women’s division in general. For Stratton, this will be her first title defense since the world was shocked with her Money in the Bank cash-in. A win over a competitor of Bayley’s caliber would go a long way toward legitimizing her reign and silencing any doubters who might view her championship win as opportunistic rather than earned. Bayley can add another chapter to her already illustrious career. A win for her would
Gunther Retains Title In WWE’s First 2-Hour Raw Show In 12 Years
In the main event of WWE Raw on October 7, 2024, Gunther successfully defended his WWE World Heavyweight Championship against Sami Zayn as the show went back to a two-hour format for the first time in 12 years. This historic episode would not only showcase Gunther’s dominance but also set up future storylines and possible rivalries. The Ring General’s Reign Continues Gunther, otherwise known as “The Ring General,” has been on an extraordinary tear as WWE World Heavyweight Champion. His victory over Sami Zayn simply cemented his position as one of the most dominant champions in recent WWE history. The match, which lasted nearly 20 minutes, was a hard-fought battle that demonstrated both competitors’ skills and determination. Zayn was resilient and fighting throughout the contest. He landed a series of high-impact moves, including an exploder to send Gunther into the barricade and a trio of Helluva Kicks. But the power and technicality of the champion were too much for the challenger. The champion answered with crushing lariats and powerbombs before finally securing the win via sleeper hold submission. This match had extra meaning between Gunther and Zayn, as at WrestleMania 40, Zayn had defeated Gunther for the Intercontinental Championship, ending the historic 666-day reign that Gunther had. The main event of Raw was a kind of redemption for Gunther, proving he was over that previous setback. The Two-Hour Format Returns The October 7 episode of Raw marked a huge change in WWE programming, as the show reverted to a two-hour format after 12 years of three-hour broadcasts. Reactions have been divided among fans and people within the industry. Many viewers have pleaded for a shorter Raw, which they say felt too long in its three-hour format, making it hard to keep up and be engaged in all three hours of it. As such, many expect this tighter format to generate a more engaging and quicker-paced experience. However, it has not all been plain sailing. The new format is reportedly generating some backstage frustration. Furthermore, the lessened time slot in the show’s format has now raised concerns about possible misdirection and a lack of direction for talent, consequently affecting storyline developments. For example, in the October 7 episode alone, a 10-women tag-team match lasted just more than seven minutes, which is indicative of the time limitations of the new format. Looking Ahead: Gunther vs. Cody Rhodes The show closed out with the champion and Cody Rhodes standing face-to-face in the ring, having stared each other down after Gunther had successfully defended his title. It was a moment that set the stage for an upcoming high-profile match at WWE Crown Jewel, where Gunther and Rhodes are scheduled to compete for the newly created WWE Crown Jewel Championship. The possible collision between Gunther and Rhodes has generated a high level of hype among the fans. The superstars have been on some fantastic runs of late, with Rhodes as the Undisputed WWE Champion and Gunther dominating the roost as the World Heavyweight Champion. This confrontation on Raw has only built expectations for probably one of the most expected matches this year. The Future in Gunther’s Reign With Gunther still on his tear as champion, many are wondering how long that will last. Some even believe that Gunther will break the record for the longest World Heavyweight Championship reign in WWE history. This would be fitting with a history of breaking records as both NXT United Kingdom Champion and Intercontinental Champion. However, there’s a prediction, too, that states that he may not still be champion by the end of 2025. In fact, an early summer defeat could seal a shocking surprise up the sleeve of all wrestling aficionados. This makes each of Gunther’s wrestling bouts and storylines unpredictable in front of him, thus adding a different level of intrigue. Raw’s Transition to Netflix This change to a two-hour format is timely, considering that WWE Raw will migrate from traditional television to Netflix in January 2025. The move to streaming in this historic manner is going to change the way wrestling content will be consumed in the future. Netflix questions whether Raw will remain a two-hour show or revert to three hours, and that opens up a number of questions. WWE Triple H5 says no word has been taken on what decision has been taken. Perhaps Netflix might give more leniency toward the run time and ad breaks to ultimately affect the show’s structure and pacing. WWE Programming Impact The return to a two-hour format for Raw has implications extending beyond the flagship show itself. It will align Raw closer to SmackDown, which has remained at a two-hour format for 25 years. This consistency of brands could lead to a more fluid experience for viewers. On the other hand, such reduced runtime poses challenges in terms of talent utilization and storyline development. WWE needs to find a way to feature its huge roster within the shorter runtime. This might lead to more concise storytelling and probably more impactful moments in each episode. Fan and Industry Reactions Reaction has been mostly positive to the two-hour Raw and continued dominance by Gunther. The fans seem to love the more condensed format of the show that promises tighter and more captivating shows. The WWE Universe also seems impressed with the run by Gunther, who, if anyone, will take down the dominant champion. Veterans of the sport have also added their voices. Tommy Dreamer, in one instance, sounded a cautious note about the new two-hour slot, stating how that could end up derailing storylines entirely. From his perspective, it is further brought forth how WWE probably would find this really tough to adapt into their storytelling feature within the runtime. Conclusion The October 7, 2024, WWE Monday Night Raw was one of those moments in WWE history for programming format and the evolvement of some championships. The title defense by Gunther against Sami Zayn showed how the champion kept his dominance to set up an interesting feud with Cody
The Passing Of WWE Legend Black Bart At 76
The world of professional wrestling is mourning the demise of a true legend, as Richard Harris, who was known to the wrestling world as Black Bart, died on January 9, 2025, at the age of 76. This former WWE and WCW star lost his battle to stage 4 liver cancer in a hard-fought contest against the disease. A Career of Stories in Professional Wrestling Black Bart began his career in the squared circle in 1975, the first of what would be almost three decades in the profession. During this time, he would work under many different ring names, including Man Mountain Harris, Hangman Harris, and Hangman Ricky Harris, before finally settling into the Black Bart gimmick that would carry him through most of his career. Rise to Prominence Thus, Harris’s wrestling odyssey took him through numerous promotions, each contributing to his growth as a performer and his reputation in the industry. He made significant impacts in: Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling Georgia Championship Wrestling Mid-South Wrestling World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW) Universal Wrestling Federation World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) World Championship Wrestling The versatility in his nature, the hard-hitting style of wrestling, made him an important asset for every promotion he ever worked with and helped him get noticed in this competitive world. Championship Success The career of Black Bart was punctuated by numerous championship victories and some memorable feuds. Some of the notable accomplishments include: Winning the NWA National Heavyweight Championship The titles they captured thrice were those of the GWF World Tag Team Championships. NWA United States Tag Team Titles (Florida) with Ron Bass Winning the WCCW World Heavyweight Championship These awards sealed his reputation as a strong opponent and a dignified member of the wrestling fraternity. The Black Bart Persona The Black Bart character was that of a rugged, no-nonsense cowboy heel, which appealed greatly to audiences and his fellow wrestlers alike. His signature move, the “Texas Trash Compactor”—a second-rope leg drop to a prone opponent—would become one of the most feared finishers in rings coast to coast. Feuds and Matches to Remember Throughout his career, Black Bart had clashed with some of the biggest names in wrestling history. His matches and rivalries with Ric Flair, Dusty Rhodes, and the Von Erich family are to this day still remembered fondly by fans of classic wrestling. Perhaps most notably, his time in World Class Championship Wrestling, where he had a rather significant world title run and quite the heated feud with Kerry Von Erich. Their Cotton Bowl main event remains one of WCCW’s greatest moments. 2 WWE Run and Further Career In 1990, Black Bart arrived in the World Wrestling Federation, now WWE, where he was used for a total of 13 months. Indeed, most of his time consisted of enhancement talent matches, but on occasion, he did get to be matched up against rising stars or established names. After his time in the WWF, Bart returned to WCW and became part of a stable known as The Desperados, which included Dutch Mantell and Deadeye Dick. Although the planned storyline involving the group and Stan Hansen never materialized, it did show that Bart could fit into many different roles within the industry. Legacy and Impact But Black Bart’s influence wasn’t limited to in-ring activity. He was an important trainer of future stars, most notably WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield, better known as JBL. His wrestling school at the Dallas Sportatorium also produced talents like Necro Butcher, further cementing his legacy in the business. Personal Life and Health Struggles Outside the ring, Richard Harris has fought his own demons when it comes to health. A diabetic, he had to undergo heart bypass surgery in 2015. In late 2024, it was revealed through fellow wrestler Dutch Mantell’s podcast that Harris was fighting stage 4 liver cancer. Final Days The 45-year-old former wrestler had already made up his mind to opt out of further chemotherapy treatment when he could no longer afford the procedure after his insurance ran out. Harris’s decision to go home to die also places his death in the ongoing discussions over healthcare and support for retired wrestlers. Remembering Black Bart The wrestling community came together in an outpouring of memories and condolences for Black Bart on social media. He left his mark on professional wrestling both as a performer and a trainer. Reflections of the Wrestling Era Black Bart’s career spanned one of the most transformative periods in professional wrestling history—from the territorial days into the national expansion of the WWF to the Monday Night Wars. He saw and was a part of some of the most drastic changes the sport had ever seen. Territory Days Black Bart’s early career in the 1970s and 1980s coincided with the height of the territory system in professional wrestling. This era was characterized by regional promotions operating in specific geographical areas, each with its own stars, championships, and storylines. During this time, Bart honed his craft by traveling from territory to territory, adapting his style and character to suit different audiences and promoters. This period was crucial in developing the versatility and toughness that would define his career. The National Expansion The national expansion of the World Wrestling Federation, under Vince McMahon, drastically changed the face and direction of wrestling in the eighties, and Black Bart’s career neatly illustrates this very shift—from regional star to one performing nationally, at least. His 13-month spell in the WWF during 1990-1991 was pivotal as it happened during the era in which the company consolidated its grip as the largest and most successful player in American professional wrestling. In that context, Bart played little more than the role of an enhancement talent; at the same time, this set him firmly between the end of the territory system and the emergence of a truly national model. The Monday Night Wars The latter portion of Black Bart’s active career coincided with one of the more thrilling periods in wrestling history, the Monday Night Wars between