J

Jitu Jangir

3722 Articles

I'm a wrestling writer at Sacnilk and my credentials are simply meant to be momentary-awake deliver of Wrestling.

Articles Written By Jitu Jangir

Former WWE Star Matt Riddle Opens Up About WWE Exit, Admitting Drug Test Failures
832 days ago
WWE News

Former WWE Star Matt Riddle Opens Up About WWE Exit, Admitting Drug Test Failures

Former WWE star Matt Riddle recently appeared on The MMA Hour and shed light on his departure from WWE in September 2023. While not definitive on a potential return, he acknowledged the complex factors surrounding his release, including multiple failed drug tests. ## Riddle expressed mixed feelings, viewing the termination as both opportune and challenging. He highlighted both the demanding WWE schedule and the recent birth of his son as contributing factors. He further elaborated, "There were multiple variables that played into my departure... failing a couple of drug tests, you know. For me, at least, the writing was on the wall." ## The interview delved into the specifics of his failed tests. Riddle revealed, "You're allowed to smoke weed. I went to the strip club and did some cocaine a couple of times, and I failed a drug test." He clarified that these instances involved cocaine use and were isolated events. He noted WWE's random testing protocol, attributing a double failure to overlapping test periods. ## While acknowledging his talent and entertainment value, Riddle conceded, "I don't think I was a good fit [for WWE], at least at the time," especially considering the company's image-conscious approach.## The conversation also touched upon the financial implications of Riddle's release. He mentioned a contract structure suggesting potentially higher earnings in the year following his departure. This detail, coupled with his drug test failures, seemingly contributed to WWE's decision.## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

Former Wrestler Virgil (Mike Jones) Passes Away
833 days ago
WWE News

Former Wrestler Virgil (Mike Jones) Passes Away

The professional wrestling world mourns the passing of wrestler Virgil, whose real name was Michael Jones. The news was announced by his friend Mark Charles III on Facebook. ## Jones passed away peacefully at the hospital after battling numerous health issues in recent years, including dementia and strokes. He was 61 years old. ## Jones began his career in the CWA in Memphis as Soul Train Jones, but his most recognizable run came in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) as the silent bodyguard of "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase. He eventually broke away from DiBiase in 1991, becoming a fan favorite alongside Roddy Piper.## The name "Virgil" was an inside joke referencing Dusty Rhodes (real name Virgil Runnels). Jones later adopted different ring names as he moved to WCW (Vincent, a jab at Vince McMahon) and briefly used Shane during a stint with the WWF.## He continued wrestling on independent circuits for years and even returned to WWE in 2010 to reprise his bodyguard role with Ted DiBiase Jr.## Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Mike Jones during this difficult time.## ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

Big E Believes The New Day Could Have A Fill-in Member Of The Faction While He's Sidelined
833 days ago
WWE News

Big E Believes The New Day Could Have A Fill-in Member Of The Faction While He's Sidelined

The New Day, a trio of wrestlers consisting of Big E, Kofi Kingston, and Xavier Woods, has cemented their place as one of professional wrestling's most formidable tag teams since their formation in 2014.## They boast several impressive records within WWE, including holding the SmackDown Tag Team Championship a record seven times and the Raw Tag Team Championship for a record-breaking 483 days.## Unfortunately, Big E's wrestling career has been put on hold since March 11, 2022, due to a neck injury. During an episode of SmackDown, he sustained a fractured C1 and C6 vertebrae after taking a dangerous maneuver from Ridge Holland.## Despite Big E's absence, the group (comprising Big E, Kingston, and Woods) remains a cohesive unit. They have enjoyed numerous championship reigns together since 2016.## In a recent interview with WhatCulture Wrestling, Big E revealed that he offered his teammates the option of adding a temporary member while he recovers. However, both Kingston and Woods vehemently oppose this idea, insisting on preserving the group's original three-man dynamic. ## "It's been quite a journey," Big E stated. "We've been aiming for the 10-year mark for a while now, and it's not the same without me. I let the guys know that they're free to bring in someone while I'm out, but they're always adamant about keeping it the original three. I truly appreciate their loyalty." ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

WWE Locks Down The Trademark Rights To The 'World Wrestling Entertainment' For A New Category
833 days ago
WWE News

WWE Locks Down The Trademark Rights To The 'World Wrestling Entertainment' For A New Category

In a move to expand its merchandise offerings, WWE recently secured trademark protection for "World Wrestling Entertainment" in a new category: drinkware. ## The filing, submitted on February 23rd, covers a broad range of drinkware products. Full description of the filing can be seen below; ## “Drinking glasses; beer mugs; portable beverage coolers; bottle openers; lunch boxes; coffee cups and mugs; thermal insulated containers for food and beverages; plastic cups; decorative plates; can coolers; cups and mugs; sports bottles sold empty; lunch boxes and portable coolers.” ## Following a legal defeat in 2002, the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) was compelled to rebrand itself as World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). This change reflected a strategic shift, emphasizing the organization's broader entertainment focus. ## Over the years, the narrative surrounding WWE has consistently highlighted its diverse offerings, which extend beyond the realm of professional wrestling and encompass captivating storytelling for its audience. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

WWE WrestleMania 40 Rumored Match Card & Predictions: Top 3
833 days ago
WWE News

WWE WrestleMania 40 Rumored Match Card & Predictions: Top 3

The WWE Universe eagerly awaits the arrival of WrestleMania 40, the grandest stage of them all, taking place on April 6th and 7th at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. While the event is still six weeks away, the biggest matches are already confirmed, setting the stage for a thrilling weekend of wrestling action. ## This highly anticipated rematch pits Cody Rhodes, the back-to-back Royal Rumble winner, against the dominant Roman Reigns in a battle for the top title. After initially hinting at stepping aside for The Rock, Rhodes confirmed his challenge, igniting fan excitement. ## Following his victory in an Elimination Chamber match, Drew McIntyre secured his chance to challenge for the WWE Championship once again, this time against the recently cleared Seth Rollins. This matchup promises an explosive encounter between two powerhouses.## After Ripley successfully defended her title against Nia Jax, Becky Lynch emerged victorious in a grueling Elimination Chamber match, earning the right to challenge for the coveted Women's Raw Championship at WrestleMania.## Bayley's initial plan to challenge Ripley was thwarted by unforeseen circumstances, leading her to choose a more personal opponent – IYO SKY. This match promises to be a battle of betrayal and ambition within the Damage CTRL faction.## While not officially confirmed, WWE has been hinting at several other potential matches, including a long-awaited clash between Jimmy and Jey Uso, a captivating encounter between LA Knight and AJ Styles, and a high-profile showdown between Randy Orton and Logan Paul. ## #1. Randy Orton vs. Logan Paul ## Singles Match: AJ Styles vs. LA Knight ## WWE United States Championship Match: Gunther (c) vs. Jey Uso ## While the Randy Orton vs. Logan Paul matchup for WrestleMania 40 promises excitement, it casts a shadow of uncertainty over the future of another WWE Superstar: Kevin Owens.## Their recent encounters hinted at an unresolved rivalry between Owens and the United States Champion. Since Paul's victory over Owens at the Royal Rumble wasn't decisive, a rematch seemed inevitable. However, Orton's involvement might put that storyline on hold.## This leaves Owens in a precarious position, lacking a clear direction for WrestleMania 40. Considering his main event status at Night One of last year's event, his potential absence from this year's grand stage would be a significant drop-off. ## #1. Singles Match: LA Knight vs. AJ Styles ## According to Dave Meltzer LA Knight vs. AJ Styles has reportedly been listed for The Show of Shows following The Phenomenal One's surprise attack at Elimination Chamber: Perth. ## #. Singles Match: Jey Uso vs. Jimmy Uso ## At WrestleMania 40, tensions between former tag team partners Jimmy and Jey Uso reach a boiling point, threatening to explode in a highly anticipated showdown. Their story within The Bloodline faction adds layers to their rivalry, making this match more than just a sibling feud. ## As WrestleMania approaches, the stage is set for a dramatic conclusion to their intertwined destinies. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

WWE's Chelsea Green Counts Down To Cardi B Tag Team Dream At WrestleMania 40
833 days ago
WWE News

WWE's Chelsea Green Counts Down To Cardi B Tag Team Dream At WrestleMania 40

Chelsea Green made her return to WWE at the Royal Rumble last year and has continued to make waves. From her consistent in-ring antics and successful tag team reign to her unique ring name announcement and even hosting her own "Chelsea's Got Talent" segment, Green has established herself as a multifaceted performer with a bright future. ## As WrestleMania 40, the grandest stage of them all, approaches in just 39 days, Green, like every wrestler, yearns for a coveted spot at the "Showcase of the Immortals." However, her approach involves a bold strategy – teaming up with none other than global music superstar Cardi B. ## Taking to her social media platform, Green launched the "#CardiCountdown," playfully suggesting it counts down the days until Cardi B accepts her offer to become a tag team partner at WrestleMania. "I'm assuming #CardiCountdown is counting down the days until @iamcardib calls me to be her @wwe tag partner? #WrestleMania," she posted. ## This unexpected proposal has fired the flame to the wrestling world. ## I’m assuming #CardiCountdown is counting down the days until @iamcardib calls me to be her @wwe tag partner? #WrestleMania— CHELSEA GREEN (@ImChelseaGreen) February 27, 2024 ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

No Quarter Catch Crew's Charlie Dempsey Dethrones Noam Dar As WWE NXT UK Heritage Cup Champion
833 days ago
WWE News

No Quarter Catch Crew's Charlie Dempsey Dethrones Noam Dar As WWE NXT UK Heritage Cup Champion

A major surprise took place on this week's "WWE NXT" as Charlie Dempsey of the No Quarter Catch Crew captured the NXT UK Heritage Cup Championship from Noam Dar. ## Heading into the match, Noam Dar was unsure which member of the No Quarter Catch Crew he would face, adding an element of uncertainty to his title defense. The situation turned further south for Noam Dar when he entered the ring accompanied by only one member of his Meta-Four stable, Oro Mensah, while the No Quarter Catch Crew arrived at full force. ## The match itself was a closely contested affair, with Dempsey securing the first fall and the following two rounds ending in draws. The third round saw a display of technical brilliance between the two competitors, featuring an array of submission attempts.## In the fourth round, Noam Dar displayed a sense of urgency, launching an offensive attack on Dempsey that included his signature Nova Roller move. He managed to secure his first and only pinfall victory of the match during this round. ## However, the tide turned decisively in the fifth and final round. The No Quarter Catch Crew interfered in the match, creating a crucial distraction that allowed Dempsey to land a Half Nelson suplex on Noam Dar and secure the pinfall victory. This win marked a significant triumph for Dempsey and the No Quarter Catch Crew, while Noam's three-reign championship tenure, spanning over 700 days, came to an abrupt end. ## The victory celebration by the No Quarter Catch Crew stood in stark contrast to the dejection of Noam Dar and Oro Mensah, who were joined by a seemingly shocked Lash Legend at the top of the entrance ramp. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

New Challengers For WWE Women's Tag Team Championship Revealed
833 days ago
WWE News

New Challengers For WWE Women's Tag Team Championship Revealed

Following Tatum Paxley's surprising obedience last week, "NXT" Women's Champion Lyra Valkyria has rewarded her with an unexpected opportunity.## Prior to her title defense against Lash Legend, Valkyria instructed the notoriously obsessive Paxley to remain backstage. In a shocking turn of events, Paxley complied, allowing Valkyria to secure a clean victory in the main event.## As a sign of appreciation, Valkyria surprised Paxley on this week's episode of "NXT" by announcing a tag team title challenge against The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane) at the upcoming NXT Roadblock event. This marks the first-ever meeting between these two teams.## While Paxley and Valkyria boast a 2-1 record on television and live events, their sole defeat came against Shotzi and Gigi Dolin at an "NXT" house show. On the other hand, The Kabuki Warriors stand undefeated in their two title defenses since regaining the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships on "SmackDown" last month. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

Shawn Spears Returns To WWE NXT After AEW Departure
833 days ago
WWE News

Shawn Spears Returns To WWE NXT After AEW Departure

Former WWE Superstar Shawn Spears, known previously as "The Perfect 10" Tye Dillinger, made a shocking return to NXT on Tuesday night.## Spears' return came after a video message containing the cryptic phrase "Truth will ultimately prevail but there is pain bringing it to light" played on the screens during Ridge Holland's address to the NXT crowd. Capitalizing on the distraction, Spears emerged from behind Holland and attacked him with a chair, later revealing his identity by pulling back his hood.## This marked Spears' first appearance under the WWE umbrella since his departure from the company in 2017. Since then, he had carved a successful path in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) for five years. However, in December 2023, Spears announced an amicable split with AEW, citing personal reasons and a desire to spend time with his family as his wife, Cassie Lee (formerly Peyton Royce in WWE), is expecting their second child.## While details surrounding Spears' role and future within NXT are yet to be revealed, his unexpected return has undoubtedly generated excitement amongst wrestling fans. ## "The truth can bring you to your knees, and that's why Shawn Spears is now in NXT"Business just picked up, @ShawnSpears is ready to take over #WWENXT! pic.twitter.com/YUJw8I4FYr— WWE (@WWE) February 28, 2024 ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

TKO Group Officially A Vince McMahon-Free Zone: Ari Emmanuel  Steps Up As Executive Chair
833 days ago
WWE News

TKO Group Officially A Vince McMahon-Free Zone: Ari Emmanuel Steps Up As Executive Chair

Following Vince McMahon's resignation from TKO Group and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) in January 2024, the company has officially filled the vacant Executive Chair position. This marks a turning point for TKO, as it becomes the first time in its history to operate without a McMahon at the helm. ## McMahon's departure was prompted by a lawsuit filed against him and former WWE executive John Laurinaitis, alleging sex trafficking, abuse, and rape. While WWE's on-screen content remains largely unchanged due to McMahon's pre-recorded creative input, his absence as TKO's Executive Chair required a leadership shift.## The company confirmed via an SEC filing that Ari Emmanuel, its current CEO, will assume the role of Executive Chair. Emmanuel co-founded Endeavor, TKO's parent company, in 1995 and has served as CEO since the 2009 merger with William Morris Agency.## Joining Emmanuel in this leadership transition is Steve Koonin, appointed as Lead Independent Director. Koonin currently leads the Atlanta Hawks NBA team and their arena, alongside previous experience presiding over Turner Broadcasting System.## The appointments of Emmanuel and Koonin became effective on February 22nd, 2024, marking a significant shift in TKO's leadership structure and symbolizing a definitive move away from the McMahon era. With new leadership at the helm, the future of TKO and its subsidiary, WWE, remains to be seen. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

Seth Rollins Takes Aim At The Rock: Downplays Comeback And Claims Superiority
833 days ago
WWE News

Seth Rollins Takes Aim At The Rock: Downplays Comeback And Claims Superiority

Seth Rollins, current WWE World Heavyweight Champion, has ignited a war of words with returning legend The Rock in a recent interview with "Inside the Ropes." ## Rollins downplayed The Rock's return, implying his presence is unnecessary and repetitive. He criticized The Rock's supposed lack of fresh material and claimed, "This is our story. This is our era. We built the last decade of WWE. We built it without him." ## While acknowledging The Rock's past contributions, Rollins declared, "He can come in and have a little tea, but we're gonna shoot him on the way out, so, happy to have him, happier to see him go."## The verbal barrage continued as Rollins boldly claimed his current form surpasses The Rock's peak: "Look, he's a specimen. But he hasn't had a match in a decade. But I'm on a different level now, I'm in my prime. I am operating at a level so high above any level he's ever operated at. He could not lace my boots at the best years of his career, let alone now."## This verbal assault marks a notable escalation in the ongoing tension between the two stars, fueled by The Rock's recent insertion into the WWE storyline and potential impact on other wrestlers' narratives. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

MLW Antitrust Lawsuit Against WWE Settled For $20 Million
833 days ago
WWE News

MLW Antitrust Lawsuit Against WWE Settled For $20 Million

Major League Wrestling (MLW) and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) reached a settlement agreement in December 2023 for a reported $20 million, according to filings by TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of MLW.## The lawsuit, filed in January 2022, accused WWE of antitrust violations by interfering with MLW's business dealings. MLW claimed that WWE pressured TV networks and streaming services like Vice TV and Tubi to abandon potential deals with them, hindering their growth and maintaining a monopoly in the professional wrestling industry.## While the initial lawsuit was dismissed in February 2023, an amended complaint by MLW led to a judge denying WWE's motion to dismiss. The ongoing legal battle reportedly impacted WWE's talent recruitment efforts due to concerns regarding potential accusations of poaching or tampering.## The details of the settlement were revealed in TKO Group Holdings' 2023 earnings report, which listed a $20 million charge related to the settlement of an antitrust lawsuit with WWE. A separate filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission confirmed that the lawsuit involved MLW and that the settlement agreement was reached on December 22nd, 2023. ## This development marks the conclusion of a legal battle that shed light on the competitive landscape of professional wrestling and its potential antitrust concerns. While the specifics of the settlement remain confidential, the $20 million figure signifies a significant resolution for both parties involved. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...