Tuesday, May 14, 2024

WrestleMania 37’s location is revealed

Nick Wilkinson
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WrestleMania 37’s location is revealed

WrestleMania is the biggest show of the year for WWE. This years event is less than two months away and is coming to the highly energetic city of Tampa, Fla. So how will WWE top this for next year? WrestleMania is going to Hollywood in 2021.

The event will take place at the SoFi Stadium in Hollywood Park, Los Angeles, Calif. There have been a total of five WrestleMania events that have taken places in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. The last being in 2005 with WrestleMania 21.

To give you a glimpse of where women’s wrestling was at that time, the women’s match at WrestleMania 21 was Trish Stratus (c) vs. Christy Hemme. The match was for the Women’s Championship and lasted just over four minutes.

In a press release, the Mayors of Inglewood and Los Angeles provided their excitement to host the event.

“There is nothing quite like WrestleMania Week,” said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti. “It is a one-of-a-kind event that provides an economic boost to the region — and fans from around the world will find a city that is ready to host them and welcomes the spectacle.”

“The city of Inglewood is thrilled to say that WrestleMania will add to the growing number of national and internationally followed events that will be hosted in our city over the next eight years,” said Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. “WrestleMania brings excitement and is followed by almost every age demographic. With the scheduling of this marquee event, we can say without contradiction, the only thing that has changed in Inglewood is…everything.”

Vince McMahon gave his sentiment as well in regards to the location as follows:

“On behalf of everyone at WWE, we are excited to bring WrestleMania back to Los Angeles,” said Vince McMahon, WWE Chairman & CEO. “WrestleMania will set the bar for future sports and entertainment events held at SoFi Stadium as we add this facility to the list of iconic venues that have hosted our pop-culture extravaganza.”

For the full press release, you can check out PWInsider by clicking here.

What are your thoughts on next year’s location? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Check back in with Diva Dirt for this year’s WrestleMania 36. Yours truly will be at the event to see everything unfold in person as it is in my hometown of Tampa, Fla.

IMPACT Wrestling Spoilers 02/07/20 & 02/08/20

Nick Wilkinson
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IMPACT Wrestling Spoilers 02/07/20 & 02/08/20

*Below are spoilers for upcoming episodes of IMPACT! If you do not want to see spoilers then turn back now*

IMPACT Wrestling had tapings over the weekend that took place on both Friday and Saturday nights. It is being rumored that these matches may air as early as Feb. 18 & Feb. 25. It may be longer as these tapings have Jordynne Grace as Knockouts Champion which has not aired yet.

Feb. 7 Taping had the following matches:

Ace Austin & Reno Scum (Adam Thornstowe and Luster the Legend) def. Tessa Blanchard, Tommy Dreamer & Trey Miguel

Su Yung def. Havok in a No DQ match – Match is said to have many weapons used throughout.

Knockouts Title Match: Jordynne Grace (c) def. Miranda Alize

Feb. 8 Taping had the following matches:

Madison Rayne is unhappy with Jordynne Grace being the new Knockouts Champion. She issues an open challenge to which Mazzerati answered.

Madison Rayne def. Mazzerati

Knockouts Title Match: Jordynne Grace (c) def. Lacey Ryan

IMPACT World Title Match: Tessa Blanchard (c) def. Taya Valkyrie

It hasn’t been announced who Tessa Blanchard will be facing at Rebellion. Blanchard however says she will face both Eddie Edwards and Michael Elgin in a triple threat.

What are your thoughts on the upcoming matches for IMPACT? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Ruby Riott opens up about her return to RAW in backstage video

Nick Wilkinson
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Ruby Riott opens up about her return to RAW in backstage video

Ruby Riott returned to RAW last Monday night and attacked her former Riott Squad comrade – Liv Morgan. Riott returned from a bilateral shoulder injury that had her out of action since right after WrestleMania in April. Two surgeries later, Riott is right back where she belongs, in a WWE ring.

WWE released a video, that you can view above, of her return from a personal and backstage point of view. She first discusses her surgeries and how now she has the full range of motion with her shoulders. The torn labrums she had were 10-years old.

Credit: WWE

Riott opens up and gets emotional over what leaving wrestling for 10 months meant to her. She states that she suffers from anxiety, depression, and ADHD. As a result of not being in the ring and on the go constantly, she states that she no longer had a distraction from those things during her time off. She had to face them and sought help through a therapist.

She further explains that she feels incredible and that she is ready to use wrestling as her purpose as opposed to a distraction. The video ends with what we saw on Monday and her betrayal on Liv Morgan.

What are your thoughts on this video? Leave your thoughts on the video and Riott’s return in the comment section below!

Queens of Combat crown a new champion

John Duffy
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Queens of Combat crown a new champion

Madi Maxx is your new Queens of Combat champion. Maxx captured the title on Feb, 8. at A Queen’s Ransom in Winston, Salem ending Diamante’s 441-day run as champion in the process.

Earlier on the evening, Maxx would win the Queens Ransom Tournament to challenge for any championship at any time.

The Queens of Combat championship was on the line in a steel cage match between Diamante and Tasha Steelz. The match saw heavy interference from Savannah Evans, who turned on Steelz, and the Queens of Combat tag-team champions SoFlo Unsanctioned (Dynamite DiDi and Rocky Radley.) The interference would give Maxx the opportunity to enter the match and pin Diamante to capture the championship.

Reports from those in attendance are that the steel cage was a remarkable match and one that should be sought out to watch.

What do you make of the news? Let us know below and as always stay tuned to Diva Dirt for all of the news, reviews and updates from the world of women’s wrestling.

Carmella becomes the next challenger for the SmackDown Women’s Title

Nick Wilkinson
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0
Carmella becomes the next challenger for the SmackDown Women’s Title

Update: Although it still hasn’t officially been announced on TV or on social media, Bayley vs. Carmella is set for Super ShowDown in Saudi Arabia. This news comes from a mass e-mail sent out to WWE fans advertising SmackDown.

In it, it states the winner of the Fatal 4-Way will face Bayley at Super ShowDown. So either this is incorrect or they are just waiting to officially announce it.


In a shocking result, Carmella is the new number one contender for the SmackDown Women’s Championship. The Princess of Staten Island would win her chance against Bayley in a Fatal 4-way that took place in the main event on Friday Night SmackDown. The match also included Naomi, Alexa Bliss, and Dana Brooke. Bayley was at ringside monitoring her potential challengers as she soaked up her hometown crowd in San Jose, Calif.

The match did a great job at highlighting each woman which makes for a great Fatal 4-Way. Naomi would show off all of her athleticism throughout the match, but was halted early on by Bayley. Bayley would drive her into the steel steps which took Naomi out of the match, but only for a moment.

During the time Naomi was out of commission, Brooke would miss on a high-risk maneuver on Carmella who sidestepped out of the way. Bliss would then enter the fray to try and take control, however, Carmella would drop Bliss face-first into the mat. The three would take a moment to gather themselves. Naomi would enter back into the match and she winds up taking out each competitor. She gets a near fall on Brooke.

A few moments later, Brooke would stack up Bliss after a power slam for a count of two as Carmella broke it up. Naomi hits a split-legged moon sault on Carmella, but Brooke is able to break up that near fall! Brooke then does some trash talking to Naomi and says it is her time. Naomi is able to counter Brooke and hits a stunner.

Bliss then takes focus on Naomi as both Carmella and Brooke are on the outside. The women take turns to gain control of the match. Both getting near falls. Brooke and Carmella get back into the match, but as soon as they are back in, they were knocked back out to the ringside floor. Bliss then attempts on her to capitalize on her one-on-one time with Naomi and goes for the Twisted Bliss. Naomi gets her knees up to counter. She hits the Rearview on Bliss.

Just when everyone thought Naomi had it in the bag, Carmella enters and delivers a double super kick and picks up the pin on Naomi!

Carmella didn’t have much time to celebrate as Bayley enters the ring and drops her new challenger to the mat face first. At the time of this writing, it has not been announced when Carmella’s upcoming title match will take place.

This is Carmella’s first shot at a singles title since August 2018 against Charlotte Flair.

What were your thoughts on the match? What do you think of Carmella being the new number one contender? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Discussion Post: SmackDown 02/07/20

Nick Wilkinson
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Discussion Post: SmackDown 02/07/20

This week’s SmackDown has high implications. If all goes as according to plan, one woman will walk out of San Jose, CA as the new number one contender for Bayley‘s SmackDown Women’s Championship. As previously advertised, there will be a Fatal 4-Way on the blue brand tonight to make this decision. The participants include: Naomi, Dana Brooke, Carmella, and Alexa Bliss.

Speaking of Bayley, Friday Night SmackDown is in her hometown tonight. WWE’s Twitter posted her arrival at the arena and she had some choice words in mocking the participants in the Fatal 4-Way tonight. She is interested in seeing which “idiot” she has to face next.

The next pay-per-view is Elimination Chamber on March 8. So either tonight will show who Bayley will face. It will most likely be at that event. Perhaps if something goes arise tonight and there is no winner then we will get the participants in an Elimination Chamber match?

Feel free to use this post to discuss tonight’s show in the comment section. How do you think tonight will turn out?

Check back in with Diva Dirt for further news on SmackDown.

Taynara Conti reportedly has parted ways with WWE

Nick Wilkinson
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Taynara Conti reportedly has parted ways with WWE

It is being reported by multiple sources that NXT Superstar Taynara Conti has decided to leave WWE. According to Fightful Select, she left the company after a disagreement that occurred in January. The reason is said to be monetary related.

Furthermore, Squared Circle Sirens is stating that sources have told them that she walked out during the time of the Battle Royal for the Number One Contenders spot on Jan. 15. Many fans were wondering why she was not part of that match and this could be the reason.

Credit: WWE

She was featured in a video in November on WWE’s Performance Center YouTube page sharing her emotional journey it took to make it to the company. Conti’s last televised match was on Dec. 18 in a losing effort against Candice LeRae. She had a string of televised losses except for the one win she picked up on Nov. 6’s show against Santana Garrett.

Her last house show prior to her leaving was on Jan. 12 in Buffalo, N.Y. She has no mention on her Twitter account of being an NXT/WWE Superstar. It is listed on her Instagram. She signed with the company in 2016 and was part of the inaugural Mae Young Classic Tournament in 2017.

WWE has not confirmed the release and she is still listed under the Superstar section of their NXT roster on wwe.com. Conti hasn’t issued a comment at this time.

What are your thoughts on this news? Leave your ideas in the comment section below.

Check back with Diva Dirt for any updated news in regards to Taynara’s status.

Shayna Baszler is reportedly being moved to the RAW brand

Nick Wilkinson
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0
Shayna Baszler is reportedly being moved to the RAW brand

It is being rumored that the former two-time NXT Women’s Champion Shayna Baszler will be moving to the RAW brand. This comes as very little surprise as Baszler has been expected to make her transfer over to either RAW or SmackDown. This has been the thought process since she lost the title in December.

This change is happening as soon as this coming Monday at the RAW event in Ontario, Canada. According to PWInsider, Baszler will make her appearance at this event. Keep in mind that Becky Lynch is set to defend her RAW Women’s Championship in a rematch against Asuka. This poises a perfect opportunity for Baszler to insert herself.

The Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer has added that Baszler’s appearance staring on Monday will be the start of her time on RAW moving forward. Her last appearance was in the Royal Rumble match on Jan. 26 in which she dominated. She joined Bianca Belair in making history on having the most eliminations in a women’s Royal Rumble match with eight.

Credit: WWE

What are your thoughts on Shayna Baszler expected move to RAW? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Check back with Diva Dirt for updated information on Shayna Baszler and the upcoming RAW event.

Alexa Bliss is now a rock song

Nick Wilkinson
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0
Alexa Bliss is now a rock song

Yes, you read that right, Alexa Bliss is now a rock song. Bliss has announced that she is not only featured in the new music video for the American band, Bowling For Soup, but the song is actually named, “Alexa Bliss.”

Bowling four Soup, as their band name suggests, are known for their humor and wit when it comes to their lyrics. “Alexa Bliss” is no exception. The song includes nods to her Twisted Bliss finisher, sleeper holds, and even her cheating ways in the ring. It has a clever chorus that reads, “Hey – why can’t every girl be more like Alexa Bliss. Hey – how could a chick on TV make me feel like this.”

BFS is said to be one of Bliss’ favorite bands. They are known for their hit singles in the early 2000s such as “Girl All The Bad Guys Want” and “1985.”

You can view the behind the scenes of their music video below. The music video itself can be seen in the header above.

Bliss joins the many women’s wrestlers who have appeared in music videos over the years. Some notable ones to check out if[ you are interested are the following:

Ashley Massaro in Rev Theory – “Hell Yeah”

Ashley Massaro, Torrie Wilson, Maryse, Kelly Kelly, Layla, and Brooke Adams in Timbaland feat. The Hives – “Throw it on Me”

The Bella Twins in Trey Songz – “Na Na”

Cheerleader Melissa and Shelly Martinez in Smashing Pumpkins – “Owata”

What are your thoughts on “Alexa Bliss”? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Fatal 4-Way set on SmackDown to determine Bayley’s next opponent

Nick Wilkinson
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Fatal 4-Way set on SmackDown to determine Bayley’s next opponent

WWE has officially announced a number one contenders match to take place on Friday Night SmackDown. The match will be a Fatal 4-Way and include Naomi, Alexa Bliss, Carmella, and Dana Brooke.

Out of the four women in this match, only one has had a recent run-in with the SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley. That woman is Naomi as she returned to SmackDown last week to a much welcoming reaction by the crowd. Bayley, however, was not amused.

Bayley would get her punches in when Naomi’s back was turned, but the GLOW Queen herself would get the last laugh as she left Bayley laying on the floor at ringside.

Carmella and Alexa Bliss are former champions in their own right and Dana Brooke is chomping at the bit to get a title match.

Tune into SmackDown to find out who will be next to go after the blue brand’s coveted prize.

Who do you think is going to become Bayley’s next opponent? More than likely this will be her challenger at the Elimination Chamber event next month. Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Jacqueline vs. Chavo Guerrero -Cruiserweight Title 05/06/04

Nick Wilkinson
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Jacqueline vs. Chavo Guerrero -Cruiserweight Title 05/06/04

For this month’s Free Match Friday’s, in honor of Black History Month, Diva Dirt is going to feature Black women in the industry. To kick things off will be a classic match that was history-making before making history was the cool thing to do. The match is Jacqueline challenging Chavo Guerrero for the Cruiserweight Championship.

Setting up the moment was Guerrero in the ring with his father, Chavo Sr. As the current Cruiserweight Champion at the time, he issued an open challenge. He stressed that this person could be literally anyone who wanted a crack at the title. He even would state it is him against the world.

What Guerrero (as well as everyone else) didn’t expect was Jacqueline to answer his challenge. Guerrero seemingly cocky throughout the match didn’t take her as a serious opponent and that cost him. After a low blow by Jacqueline when the referee was distracted by Chavo Sr., she rolled him up and over into a pin to get the three count. The crowd erupted and we had the first-ever female Cruiserweight Champion.

Sadly, Jacqueline would only go on to hold the title for about 12-days and lost it back to Guerrero at the Judgement Day pay-per-view. She would be released the following month prior to heading to TNA. She was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame in 2016.

What are your memories on this match? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below!

Check back in with Diva Dirt next Friday for another Free Match Friday in celebration of Black History Month.

“I Quit” match set for the NXT UK Women’s Championship

John Duffy
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“I Quit” match set for the NXT UK Women’s Championship

On last night’s episode of NXT UK Kay Lee Ray challenged Toni Storm to an “I Quit” match for the NXT UK Women’s Championship.

Kay Lee Ray made the challenge in a bid to rid herself of the former champion Storm, whom she defeated for the title at NXT UK TakeOver: Cardiff and retained in Triple Threat against Storm and Niven at NXT UK TakeOver: Blackpool II.

Toni Storm gladly accepted the challenge along with the stipulation that if she can’t defeat KLR for the title then Storm can never challenge for the NXT UK Women’s Championship while KLR holds it.

The match will take place next week on NXT UK. However, we do have the outcome of the match and you read the spoilers here if you wish.

What do you make of the match up? Let us know in the comments below and as always stay tuned to Diva Dirt for all of your NXT UK news, reviews and updates.

Naomi, Ember Moon, & Bianca Belair speak on diversity in wrestling

Nick Wilkinson
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Naomi, Ember Moon, & Bianca Belair speak on diversity in wrestling

Wrestling has always been an outlet for many people. It has been a way to fit in for those that feel different in society in whichever way they feel as such. Essence magazine sat down with three powerful women to discuss how they feel about Black diversity in wrestling. They also went over body image and finding their truest selves.

The three women interviewed were Naomi, Bianca Belair, and Ember Moon. Naomi recently had a huge return at the Royal Rumble and a subsequent return to Friday Night SmackDown. Belair has been a prominent face on the NXT brand. She is currently poised to take down Rhea Ripley for the NXT Women’s Title at TakeOver: Portland. Moon has been out of action due to injury, but she is one of the most athletic women on the roster and has a catalog of matches that steal the show.

In the interview, Belair spoke mostly on body image, but she did touch on diversity a little. She exclaimed that you don’t have to be for everyone. Essentially, you are not going to be everyone’s cup of tea, and that is fine.

Credit: WWE

“I just want to be who I am and I’m going to show up for the people who I am for and represent for them,” says Belair.

She spoke on body image as well and how she was told what and who she should be.

“I was always the bigger, muscular girl. Growing up, I was always told what I needed to look like to perform best and be accepted.” She continues, “I knew that I was naturally smart, talented, and athletic, but was often told to tone it down and not be as ambitious. So, I felt like I needed to shrink myself to soothe other people’s insecurities.”

Credit: WWE

Ember Moon conversed on what wrestling has meant for her. It attributed to her being able to be an “out- of-the-box Black girl.”

“I remember having a match and the crowd erupted for me. It gave me goosebumps but also made me wonder, ‘Are they cheering for me?’ It made me swell with such pride that even though I’m the one in the ring, doing the moves, to have other people feel that elation, there’s no feeling like it in the world.”

Moon continues on how she feels included by WWE and her work environment. She takes notice at the increase in Black representation in the locker room and how it is still such a diverse group even within that group.

“It’s nice to walk into a locker room as you’re not the only African-American woman there. It’s a beautiful thing. And we are all so different even though we are from the same culture. And that’s true representation.”

Credit: WWE

Naomi discussed her inspiration behind her “Feel the Glow” gimmick and tagline. It came from the movie The Last Dragon. This helped her overcome feeling like she was an outsider and that she had to adapt to a situation that she did not feel comfortable in. It gave her the strength to be herself.

“I was always inspired by the story of Bruce Leroy and how he didn’t initially believe in himself but the glow and the power was in him the whole time. He just needed to believe it. It reminded me of so many spaces I’ve been in where I was ‘the only’ and felt like I needed to adapt to what everyone else was doing instead of just walking to the beat of my own drum.”

Thank you to Essence for writing such an inspiring article. All quotes credited to Imani Bashir of Essence.

What are your thoughts and opinions on this article? Where do you see representation for Black women in wrestling? Or do you? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Winners & Losers; AEW Dynamite 02/05/20

John Duffy
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Winners & Losers; AEW Dynamite 02/05/20

The first February episode of AEW Dynamite took place last night from Hunstville, AL. The show featured the returning Yuka Sakazaki in her Dynamite debut taking on Britt Baker.

Before we get to all the goings-on on Dynamite we had a few interesting things take place on AEW Dark. First, we got a match between Hikaru Shida and Mel of the Nightmare Collective. While the match was good and saw Shida pick another victory, the main talking point coming out of the match was that Mel and “Japanese Deathmatch Legend” Luther turned on and attacked Awesome Kong.

This combined with Brandi Rhodes‘ therapy session videos, in which she seems to be coming to terms with the stupidity of it all, could hopefully spell the end of the poorly received faction.

We were then treated to AEW’s first intergender tag team match that featured AEW women’s champion Riho and Kenny Omega take on Kip Sabian and Penelope Ford.

The match took place on the Chris Jericho Rock and Wrestling Rager at Sea. The kicked off with Ford challenging Omega. The two tangled up before Sabian challenged Riho. The match was good fun and featured some very enjoyable spots with Ford and Riho especially getting the chance to shine. After the match, Kenny took to the mic to address the crowd and commemorate this moment.

Back to the matter at hand, AEW Dynamite continued to focus on and push Britt Baker’s heel turn. After cutting another scathing promo about the dental hygiene of the crowd she took on the ‘Magical Girl’ Yuka Sakazaki.

The two competitors locked up for a series of arm, wrist and headlocks followed by strikes and some high-flying offence.

Baker and Sakazaki would trade attacks for near falls until Baker attempted to submit her opponent with Lockjaw. However, Baker’s in-ring frustrations continued when Sakazaki countered the move into a cradle for the surprise victory.

Baker would snap and attack Sakazaki with the ring bell to the back of the head. Baker’s dastardly deeds wouldn’t stop there as she placed Sakazaki’s mouth on the bottom rope before viciously stomping the of her head causing her to lose a tooth.

Baker’s onslaught would continue as she cranked in the Lockjaw to fully solidify her new and improved villainous ways.

This quick but good match was all about the post-match angle, which was executed very well. Sakazaki as the returning, fun-loving, fan favourite babyface was the perfect sacrificial lamb for Baker’s punishment.

Later on the episode, it was announced that Riho would return next week to put her title on the line against Nyla Rose. Could we see a new champion or will the new Britt Baker insert herself into the mix?

Winner: Britt Baker

Heel turn complete and evil dentist with a superiority complex it is. This is just the character shift that Baker needed to boost her career. Her vicious promos and violent offence thus far have been enjoyable and in a roster short on heels we have a lot of new matches in the pipeline. A heel Baker vs Riho would be an interesting dynamic, as would matches against Shida and Statlander. Baker has the opportunity to become the driving force of the women’s division with this heel persona much more than her bland babyface character ever did. More of this, please.

Loser: Yuka Sakazaki

I mean if you leave the match with missing teeth you have to be the loser right? I was great to see her back in AEW despite it being in a losing effort. The post-match angle gives her ammunition for revenge and her association with Riho furthers Baker’s disdain for the AEW women’s champion. A revenge storyline and potential team-up with Riho could be on the cards that would be beneficial for all involved.

Final Thoughts:

A quick match yet highly effective angle. Many assumed, including me, that the result would be in Baker’s favour as to send a message to Riho. However, the angle got Sakazaki a win all the while furthering Baker’s heel turn and continuing her upcoming feud with Riho. All in a good day’s work I say. We now have a multifaceted heel with an interesting story and character development within a division that has been crying out for such. Plus there was no Nightmare Collective again so positives all around.

What did you make of the show? Let us know below and as always stay tuned to Diva Dirt for all of your AEW news, reviews and updates.

Winners & Losers: NXT 02/05/20

Nick Wilkinson
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Winners & Losers: NXT 02/05/20

NXT this week had its ups and downs. What was great was the dynamic between Bianca Belair, Charlotte Flair, and Rhea Ripley but we will get to that in a moment. First, let’s talk about the match of the night.

Unfortunately NXT’s record of having at least two women’s matches a week was halted tonight. Mercedes Martinez took on Kacy Catanzaro in a one-on-one bout. The match was solid. It definitely did feel like a little bit wonky due to the veteran status of Martinez and Catanzaro just getting back into the swing of things.

Martinez was able to pick up a win with a fisherman’s buster. Personally, either way, this match was a win or lose situatio. Martinez is a newly signed veteran and unless she receives the Santana Garrett treatment she shouldn’t be suffering losses. On the other hand, Catanzaro recently making her return to much praise shouldn’t be met with a loss either.

So much happened on last week’s NXT. The show had three matches in which none were followed up with on tonight’s show. With TakeOver: Portland just one week from Sunday there could have been at least a segment between Tegan Nox and Dakota Kai to promote it. The Robert Stone Brand isn’t creating any positive waves as Chelsea Green lost her debut match last week and she also was missing from action tonight.

Now on to the positive notes of the night. Charlotte Flair was confirmed since Monday that she would show up at NXT to answer Rhea Ripley’s challenge. The NXT Women’s Champion made the challenge on RAW to Flair saying that she wanted to be her WrestleMania opponent. By the end of the night, we still don’t have an answer, but the segment was entertaining.

The segment started with Bianca Belair first in the ring. She was scheduled to go face-to-face with Ripley. Belair is the roadblock for Ripley to even be able to make it to WrestleMania. Belair has it all. She is a past, present, and future star – she is that good. She took to the mic to let Ripley know that she should be concerned about her and shouldn’t be overlooking her and talking about Charlotte.

At that moment Flair’s music would hit and not Ripley’s. Flair would enter the ring in her Queen fashion and was welcomed back to NXT from the crowd. She confirmed that she respects Belair but the EST is far from being Flair. At this point Ripley joins the party.

Flair would disrespect Belair multiple times during the segment with a hand to her face. Belair would remind Flair that she “doesn’t even go here” as she is not on the NXT brand. Eventually, Ripley would side with Belair. The Nightmare reminds Flair that she didn’t show up to RAW with any disrespect. She expects the 10-time champ to come to the black and gold brand with the same respect.

Belair and Ripley would end the segment by dropping Flair face first on the mat.

Let’s go over the Winners & Losers of the night:

WINNER: Bianca Belair

The segment between Belair/Flair/Ripley was clearly the highlight of the night. The reason for that was Bianca. She adds that extra swag that is very much needed. Her reactions to Charlotte, her outfit, her mic skills, everything was on point. Belair needs gold around her waist. I don’t see Ripley losing the belt anytime soon, but if Bianca doesn’t win then maybe she can move to RAW shortly.

LOSERS: Tegan Nox & Dakota Kai

Not having these two on tonight’s show in some capacity was a misstep. Their Street Match at TakeOver has the capability to be a stellar match, but the storyline between them has been dragging. Because of this, they need to hype up the match more and it just isn’t happening.

LOSER: Kacy Catanzaro

Kacy is simply on this loser list because of bad booking. Her facing Mercedes may not have been the best match to see her in since her return. Her loss isn’t going to take her anywhere, although this was more or less just a one-off match anyway. Perhaps the talent in NXT is just so good that I don’t want to see anyone lose?

What did you think of this week’s NXT? Who were your Winners & Losers? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Check back in with Diva Dirt next week for more coverage of NXT during their go-home show before TakeOver: Portland.

Discussion Post: NXT 02/05/20

Nick Wilkinson
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Discussion Post: NXT 02/05/20

Tonight’s NXT is set to be a good one. Although there haven’t been any matches announced just yet, TakeOver: Portland is just around the corner. At that event Rhea Ripley will be defending her NXT Women’s Title against the determined Bianca Belair. They will be face to face tonight.

Ripley will have to make sure her head is on a swivel as the 10-time women’s champion Charlotte Flair will also be present. This past Monday on RAW, Ripley appeared on the red brand to convince Flair to pick her as her WrestleMania opponent. Flair wouldn’t answer The Nightmare then, but she is slated to give her answer tonight in Ripley’s house.

Feel free to use this post to discuss NXT throughout the show. Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

AEW writes off Awesome Kong with an “injury”

Nick Wilkinson
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AEW writes off Awesome Kong with an “injury”

On last night’s AEW Dark, The Nightmare Collective has already started to implode. The tides changed for the stable after Mel took on Hikaru Shida. Despite Awesome Kong‘s efforts to interfere in the match, Mel still came out with a loss. This loss did not sit well with Kong.

Kong and Mel would exchange words post-match causing member Luther to get involved. He would hold back Kong as Mel took advantage and hit her. She followed this up by throwing Kong through the barrier as the attack continues. Mel would finish up the attack with a leg drop on Kong on the steel steps.

Kong, although she didn’t have many matches, was a founding member of The Nightmare Collective along with Brandi Rhodes. They since recruited Mel and most recently Luther. The group was seen several times trying to coerce Kris Statlander in joining. She wouldn’t end up joining.

According to AEW’s tweet, at least storyline-wise Kong is out and may not be returning. The exact reason for this isn’t known. It might be possible that her on-screen write off may be to film the last season of GLOW.

How do you think this will affect The Nightmare Collective? Could this be the end of the stable?

What are your thoughts on this? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Thunder Rosa retains the NWA Women’s World Championship

John Duffy
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Thunder Rosa retains the NWA Women’s World Championship

Last night’s episode of NWA Powerrr saw the NWA Women’s World Championship on the line in a rematch from the Hard Times PPV between Thunder Rosa and Allysin Kay.

Thunder Rosa defeated Kay at the PPV to become the NWA Women’s World Champion in an awesome and hard-hitting match.

Melina joined commentary at ringside for the match, which was interesting as Sean Mooney announced earlier that she had approached NWA management and demanded to be the next in line to challenge for the title. Melina would not talk throughout the match and only observe smugly from afar seemingly setting up an angle between the two allies.

The match featured some great mat wrestling, stiff strikes and close pinfalls as the two competitors put on another show-stealing affair.

Marti Belle would make an appearance at ringside, much to Rosa’s disdain but was intimidated away by Tasha Steelz and Ashley Vox. Rosa would try to make the most of the distraction with a pin attempt on Kay but to no avail.

The action picked up once more after the warring factions left ringside for the commentary booth. Following some back and forth action Rosa would grab the pinfall with a smart roll-up in another hard-fought match.

Belle and Melina would applaud Rosa after her victory but something was not quite right and Rosa, seemingly disappointed by her partners took her exit without them as cracks begin to appear in the trio’s friendship.

Another great showing from both Kay and Thunder Rosa here. These two are the top tier of a new, exciting and fresh women’s division. Thunder Rosa with her unique look, legitimate badassery and consistently great performances has megastar written all over her and is the perfect person to drive the division into prominence. Kay is an established name that brings eyes to the division and as a veteran of the business, she is the best person for the young up-and-comers, such as, Marti Belle, Ashley Vox and Tasha Steelz to learn from. The future does certainly look bright for the NWA women’s division.

I find myself becoming more and more entertained by the NWA women’s division and eagerly sought it out on a Wednesday morning and therefore I intend on writing a lot more about NWA in the future.

What did you make of the match and would you like more NWA reviews? Let me know in the comments below.

Jazzy Gabert speaks on why she asked to be released from WWE

Nick Wilkinson
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Jazzy Gabert speaks on why she asked to be released from WWE

Former NXT UK Superstar, Jazzy Gabert, recently requested her release from the company. It was granted just a few weeks ago. She posted on her social media that she was now a free agent and her sentiment was that she was looking towards the future, possibly with other interests. Gabert has spoken with The Wrestling Inc. Daily in response to why she left.

She discusses how hard the decision was to ask for her release but felt it was what was needed.

“It was difficult because WWE was always my dream since I was a little kid. But to be honest, NXT UK was so different from SmackDown or Raw which is what I was dreaming of. I asked if there was a chance to move up and their typical answer was that creative had nothing for you,” stated Gabert.

Credit: WWE

She continues, “I had just one month with NXT UK so we had the Performance Center for 10 days and then tapings. But for me, that was not enough. I want to do it full time and be on the road all the time. So I was searching for other projects doing TV stuff and acting. It was successful and they were like, ‘Wow! You’re awesome and we really want to work with you.’ It was all or nothing so I had to make the decision and it was hard.”

Gabert was only signed with the company for a year and made her debut in May. She was most commonly used as an enforcer for Jinny.

For the full interview you can click here. All transcripts provided by Wrestling Inc.

What are your thoughts on Gabert’s exit from WWE? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Aja Perera signs with NXT *Updated*

John Duffy
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Aja Perera signs with NXT *Updated*

Update: It has been confirmed by WWE’s Performance Center YouTube channel and NXT’s Twitter that Aja Perera has been signed as a referee. This makes her the first African American woman to become a referee for the company. She is now going by Aja Smith.

It is being reported by Squared Circle Sirens that Aja Perera has signed with NXT and is reporting for duty at the Performance Center classes.

The 25-year-old Perera has been wrestling since 2013 and has been a standout name on the independent circuit for a number of years. Perera made a name for herself wrestling for promotions such as SHIMMER, Chikara and SHINE, where she is the former Nova Champion and former tag team champion with Big Swole as Team Aye.

You can check out Diva Dirt’s prior interview with Perera by clicking here.

Maria Kanellis-Bennett gives birth to a baby boy

John Duffy
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Maria Kanellis-Bennett gives birth to a baby boy

A huge congratulations are in order for Maria Kanellis who welcomed a little baby boy into the world yesterday. Kanellis took to Instagram to break the wonderful news.

This is Mike and Maria’s second child, with their first, Frederica being born in 2018.

Mike Bennett also took to social media to share his joy about the new arrival.

Former 24/7 Champion, Maria Kanellis was last seen on our screens alongside husband, Mike during their RAW appearances, in which her pregnancy was part of an angle.

All at Diva Dirt would like to congratulate Maria and Mike on this amazing news.

Becky Lynch vs. Asuka rematch announced for next week’s RAW

John Duffy
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Becky Lynch vs. Asuka rematch announced for next week’s RAW

Next week’s episode of RAW will host the Royal Rumble rematch of Becky Lynch vs. Asuka with the RAW Women’s Championship on the line.

Asuka defeated Natalya in a hard-hitting match on this week’s show and immediately got on the microphone and challenged Becky Lynch to a rematch.

Since defeating Asuka at Royal Rumble and collecting her one outstanding “debt” Becky Lynch has been on a high, even claiming that the victory gave her “superpowers”. Lynch would accept Asuka’s challenge claiming that there would be nothing better than beating the Empress of Tomorrow one more time.

The title match coming so close to WrestleMania is certainly interesting as there is no clear direction for the RAW Women’s Championship despite the rumours that Becky Lynch is scheduled to face Shayna Baszler at WrestleMania 36. Could we be in for a major swerve heading into WrestleMania and see Asuka capture the title next week?

What do you make of the announcement? Let us know below and as always stay tuned to Diva Dirt for all of your WWE news, reviews and updates.

Ripley attempts to coerce Flair on RAW to pick her for WrestleMania

Nick Wilkinson
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Ripley attempts to coerce Flair on RAW to pick her for WrestleMania

Charlotte Flair has yet to decide who she will be facing at WrestleMania. She can challenge any champion of her choosing. The Queen’s win at the Royal Rumble match has caused quite a quandary for the 10-time champion. She is having trouble deciding who she wants to face. The Nightmare from NXT made her way to RAW to try and help her decide.

Flair attempts to announce who she wants to face for the second week in a row. She starts the segment by explaining to the crowd that she can choose any champion of her choice. She has held both the RAW and SmackDown Women’s Championships multiple times. The crowd starts chanting for the NXT Women’s Champion, Rhea Ripley. Flair pauses and states that she has love for NXT. She considers herself still the Queen of the black and gold brand.

After saying she has defeated both Becky Lynch and Bayley multiple time, Ripley’s music hits and NXT’s champ makes her way to the ring. She confirms that Flair can choose ANY champion she wants and agrees with the sentiment that Flair has defeated her Horsewomen comrades multiple times.

Ripley reminds Flair that she has never beaten her. In reality, Ripley has defeated Flair. The NXT Women’s Champion lays out the challenge and wants Flair to pick her to face at WrestleMania 36 in April. The Queen would again not provide an answer and leaves the ring.

It has been announced that Flair will answer Ripley’s challenge this Wednesday on NXT. Will Flair’s return to NXT be the right way to answer The Nightmare? It has been a long time since Flair has been on the black and gold brand and Ripley has home court advantage.

What are your thoughts on the potential Flair vs. Ripley match at WrestleMania? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Check back in with Diva Dirt for further news on the WrestleMania build up.

AEW to air their first mixed-tag team match on Dark

Nick Wilkinson
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AEW to air their first mixed-tag team match on Dark

AEW will be airing their first mixed-tag team match since the organization started and will be shown on AEW Dark. The match features Penelope Ford and Kip Sabian facing AEW’s Women’s World Champion Riho and half of the World Tag Team Champions Kenny Omega. It was taped during the Chris Jericho cruise but hasn’t been aired until now.

The match is currently being billed as a mixed-tag team, however, it is said to be more intergender. Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer was on the ship and was able to see it live. He says that there is plenty of interaction between the genders. Generally in a mixed tag-team match the men wrestle the men and in turn, the women wrestle the women.

AEW’s CEO, Tony Khan once mentioned that the fans would not be seeing intergender wrestling in AEW. He spoke against it and gave an example of why he wasn’t for it. He did not approve of an incident that involved Jordynne Grace and Brian Cage in a Battle Royal at the All In event.

What are your thoughts on this match? Leave wha you think in the comment section below.

Ruby Riott returns on RAW and attacks Liv Morgan

Nick Wilkinson
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Ruby Riott returns on RAW and attacks Liv Morgan

Ruby Riott made her highly anticipated return on RAW tonight. Riott has been out of action since WrestleMania in April of last year. She was out due to a bilateral shoulder injury that required the first surgery in May and a second in August.

It was previously reported that she was seen at the WWE Performance Center at the beginning of January. This visit was said to check on her progress and to give an idea on when she could return. It was rumored that she may have been in the Royal Rumble match but that did not take place.

She returns on RAW after her former Riott Squad member Liv Morgan picked up another win against Lana. After a short match, Morgan pinned Lana and was celebrating her win in the ring. Riott’s music hit and Morgan put a huge smile on her face to see her former stablemate and best friend. Riott would share the same sentiment as she was grinning from ear to ear making her way to the ring.

The two soak up the applause from the crowd as they chant Ruby’s name. As Morgan goes in for an embrace, Riott makes her heel turn. She takes down Morgan to the mat and follows it up with a kick to the face and a series of punches. Riott then lays Morgan down with a clothesline from behind.

As Riott smiles and makes her way back up the ramp, Lana picks up the scraps. She delivers a facebuster to Morgan and yells “this is karma” as the segment ends.

What do you make of Ruby Riott’s return? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

Discussion Post: RAW 02/03/20

Nick Wilkinson
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Discussion Post: RAW 02/03/20

Tonight’s RAW look’s like it may be a repeat of what we have been seeing for the past few weeks. The advertised bout is a rematch between Liv Morgan and Lana. Last week, Morgan finally was able to go one-on-one with the Ravishing Russian. She picked up a win. Bobby Lashley and Rusev were banned from ringside for that match.

As opposed to last week, this week’s match says that Lashley and Rusev have not been banned from ringside. Personally, if this feud is going to continue, they need to focus on it being between just Liv and Lana. The storyline needs more explanation also. At this point we just know that Liv and Lana were an item last year.

Last week everyone patiently waited for Charlotte Flair to announce who she will be facing at WrestleMania this year. This is as a result of her win in the Royal Rumble match. She decided to make the fans wait as she was not ready to decide just yet. Perhaps she will announce her opponent tonight?

Feel free to use this post to discuss tonight’s show. Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

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