WWE: Vince, Linda McMahon Named in New Lawsuit

Five former “ring boys” who worked for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) as teenagers in the 1980s have filed a lawsuit against the company and its founders. The suit, which accuses WWE of enabling sexual abuse, also names Vince and Linda McMahon. Rolling Stone reports that this is the first time the McMahons have been personally implicated. (Source: Rolling Stone)

The lawsuit accuses WWE of allowing Mel Phillips, a former ring crew boss, unfettered access to young boys, enabling the abuse with private locker rooms and no oversight. Evidence in the public record supports these allegations.
This case marks the first time Vince and Linda McMahon are personally named as defendants, linking them to a cover-up of child sexual abuse at WWE, despite past accusations against Phillips dating back to the 1990s.
Attorney Greg Gutzler, representing the plaintiffs, stated that WWE and its leaders failed to protect the young boys, and new developments are expected to expose further systemic corruption and abuse within the organization.

WWE Planning Major Show for Raw on Netflix Debut

by OnePinfallStaff

WWE is reportedly planning a major show for the Netflix debut of WWE Raw. The premiere, set for January 6, aims to be the “biggest episode in Raw history.” Source: Sports Illustrated.

WWE intends to deliver a pay-per-view level experience for Raw’s Netflix debut, featuring talent from both Raw and SmackDown brands.
The company views the Netflix deal as a massive opportunity for growth, investing heavily to make the premiere a memorable event for fans.
John Cena has confirmed he will participate in the first Netflix episode, marking his final year as an active wrestler in 2025.

Backstage Reaction to Carlito’s Controversial Line on WWE Raw

by OnePinfallStaff

UNSCRIPTED CARLITO

Fightful Select has reported on a controversial line from Carlito during a recent WWE Raw broadcast. During a backstage segment, Carlito stated, “I gotta learn Chinese,” after Iyo Sky and Kairi Sane exited the shot. Source: 411mania.com.

The line was unscripted, and WWE staff were reportedly in disbelief at what was said. The line caused significant internal concern.
The segment has since been edited out of WWE’s digital and social media platforms, reflecting the company’s desire to distance itself from the unscripted comment.
There is no official confirmation yet on whether there will be repercussions for Carlito, or if any action will be taken against others involved in the segment.

TKO’s Mark Shapiro Reveals Behind-the-Scenes of Netflix-WWE Deal

by OnePinfallStaff

Endeavor and TKO President Mark Shapiro recently shared how WWE pitched Netflix for a significant 10-year deal, bringing Monday Night Raw to the streaming giant. This move marks WWE’s debut on Netflix, kicking off on January 6. Source: Sports Business Journal.

WWE initially approached Netflix about its NXT brand, but eventually secured a 10-year, $5 billion deal for Monday Night Raw.
Mark Shapiro highlighted the uniqueness of WWE’s content as “scripted entertainment” that could reduce viewer churn, convincing Netflix to take the plunge.
WWE’s Chief Content Officer, Paul “Triple H” Levesque, emphasized WWE’s “turnkey” production capability, making Netflix confident in the content delivery.

Backstage Insight on CM Punk’s WWE Tenure: Internal Reactions Revealed

by OnePinfallStaff

CM Punk’s return to WWE in November 2023 has sparked numerous discussions within the company. Despite his dramatic re-entry at Survivor Series, questions linger about his long-term involvement. According to sources, WWE remains satisfied with Punk’s performance thus far, and his contract status appears secure. Full story via PWMania.

CM Punk returned to WWE in 2023 after a decade away, following a feud with Seth Rollins and Drew McIntyre. His recent storyline concluded with a Hell in a Cell match against McIntyre at Bad Blood.
Despite speculation, Punk is not expected to appear at Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia, indicating he may be taking a brief hiatus before the Survivor Series event.
Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select reports Punk’s contract still has significant time remaining, and the company is content with his contributions since his return.

WWE’s Beloved Announcer Steps Down—Is AEW Her Next Move?

by OnePinfallStaff

Samantha Irvin, known for her role as Monday Night Raw’s ring announcer, has announced her departure from WWE. Her statement expressed gratitude to fans, wrestlers, and staff. This decision follows her fiancé Ricochet’s switch to AEW earlier this summer. For more on this development, read Irvin’s heartfelt message. Source: Bleacher Report.

In her letter, Samantha Irvin thanked the WWE Universe, wrestlers, and backstage staff, expressing her appreciation for the experiences she had since joining in 2021. She highlighted her love for the art of ring announcing and hinted at future creative ventures beyond WWE.
Irvin’s exit coincides with her fiancé Ricochet‘s move to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) earlier this year, a significant shift in their professional careers. This decision has led to speculation about the couple’s future involvement in professional wrestling.
Before WWE, Irvin was known for her participation in America’s Got Talent and various performances on the Las Vegas stage. Her diverse background in entertainment contributed to her passionate and dynamic style in the ring, earning her fan acclaim and praise from legendary announcers.

Bo Dallas Feels the Love Continuing Bray Wyatt’s Legacy: ‘I Can Feel Windham Still With Me’

by OnePinfallStaff

Bo Dallas opens up about the emotional journey of carrying on his late brother, Bray Wyatt’s, legacy in WWE. Despite initial doubts, Dallas has embraced his role, debuting the Wyatt Sicks to honor his brother’s vision. For full insights into Dallas’s heartfelt tribute, visit Bo Dallas’s WWE journey. Source: USA TODAY.

Bo Dallas initially struggled with the idea of returning to WWE after Bray Wyatt’s tragic passing at 36. Doubtful and uncertain, he contemplated whether continuing his brother’s legacy would resonate with fans and uphold the Wyatt family name.
The launch of the Wyatt Sicks, inspired by Bray Wyatt’s earlier concepts like the Firefly Fun House, has seen huge support. This group, featuring familiar WWE faces like Erick Rowan, brings a sense of unity and carries on Wyatt’s vision for the WWE Universe.
Bo Dallas finds inspiration in seeing Bray Wyatt’s work live on, not only in WWE shows but also in video games like WWE 2K24, which released a special “Bray Wyatt Edition.” He believes this continuation honors his brother’s creative genius and spirit.

WWE Files Trademark for ‘Legends & Future Greats’ Show

by OnePinfallStaff

The WWE has potentially unveiled a new show name through a recent trademark filing, sparking excitement ahead of their move to Netflix in January. The filing suggests fresh content beyond Raw, SmackDown, and NXT weekly shows. This information was sourced directly from WrestleTalk.

The WWE trademarked two terms: ‘WWE Legends & Future Greats‘ and ‘WWE LFG‘ on October 19, specifically for use in entertainment services, including television and multimedia platforms.
WWE President Nick Khan has confirmed that the company is developing a behind-the-scenes documentary set to debut on Netflix, although it remains unclear if this trademark pertains to that project.
The trademark filing details a wide range of entertainment services, encompassing live events, broadcast media, online platforms, and fan club activities aimed at boosting WWE’s multimedia presence.