At WWE’s SummerSlam, Dakota Kai made her shocking return to the company after being released in April. She joined Bayley and IYO SKY and has formed a formidable faction that is currently taking over the Raw women’s division.
Kai was on this week’s WWE The Bump to talk about her return and partnership with Bayley and SKY.
“Honestly, it still feels like a whirlwind to me with everything that happened. It all happened so last minute too. To be talking with you guys is insane to me. Everything that happened since Saturday has been insane. It’s been crazy,” she said.
When asked about working with Bayley & SKY, Kai said, “Bayley and I, we’ve been kind of talking about something like this for a long time. It hasn’t been something that was spurred overnight. This has been something we’ve wanted for years. The fact that it actually happened and to be under her guidance is insane because she’s literally amazing and great. IYO and I, we’ve known each other a long time, when I first went to Japan and she is literally one of the best in the world. To be alongside these two women is a dream. Everything that’s happened is something you think of in a fever dream, you don’t think it’s really going to happen, but the fact that it has and I’m alongside these two amazing people is crazy.”
Kai had been with WWE officially since the end of 2016 and her main roster debut has been a long time coming for many fans. Fightful Select had previously reported that this stable was previously pitched but it was turned down by Vince McMahon. McMahon announced his retirement on July 22 and Triple H has now creative control over the company.
After Kai had been released in April, Bayley posted the following on her social media –
… And Dakota is one of the main reasons I couldn’t wait to get healthy. For the opportunity to wrestle her, to work alongside her, to make history with her.
Now I just have to be jealous of whoever gets to. We love you Charlie! See you around ??? https://t.co/kwCxQEuGBZ
Christy Hemme is still very prevalent in the wrestling industry.
Currently working as a producer with IMPACT Wrestling she started her time in wrestling with WWE and the Diva Search in 2004. She would join TNA originally in 2006 as an in-ring competitor until she moved to a ring announcer and backstage interviewer role.
Hemme sat down with DS Shin of Ring the Belle to count down her Top 5 Moments. The full interview can be found at the bottom of this article.
I hope you get to see how much love Christy has for women's wrestling through this interview. She LOVES it with passion.
The “Women in Wrestling” Promo – TNA Final Resolution 2007
Christy Hemme vs. Awesome Kong – TNA Final Resolution 2008
These five moments put together led to some highlights throughout her career.
From the Diva Search, Hemme talks about the “Diss the Diva” segment and Carmella DeCesare. From there they discuss her WrestleMania match with Trish Stratus. This was one of her first matches on the biggest stage of them all. It was originally supposed to be a ten-minute match but cut to six which ended up being four. She credits her training to names such as Lita, Trish Stratus, Fit Finlay, Dean Malenko, and Ricky Steamboat. They talked about her famous finisher the F.F.G. (Flying Firecrotch Guillotine) and how the name of it originated as a joke.
Hemme talks feud with Victoria and also credits Melina as one of the greatest villains of all time –
After Hemme’s move to SmackDown – “I love her [Melina] so much. I just think she is one of the greatest villains of all time. It was great for me because I could be this ultimate babyface because she was so great at her job. She just brings a level of intensity and sass. True sass. And then you meet her as a human and she is kind, soft-spoken, sweet – ‘wow you hide that in there very well’ and when it comes out it comes out.”
Shin moves on to talk about how fans were shocked when Hemme was released from WWE seemingly out of nowhere. Hemme says she was shocked as well. She adds that she was heartbroken.
“I was shocked too. I was heartbroken. You know what? I was heartbroken, to say the least. I just loved it so much, I didn’t want it to end. It took me a while to come back from that. I was training at the time. I was down in OVW. I had my life planned out you know? I knew where I was going and so I knew immediately I wasn’t leaving, so how long am I under this contract and what can I do next? It was almost instantly I knew Impact, TNA at the time, was going to be where I wanted to go.”
When Shin asked if she knew what happened and why she was released – “I was told it was creatively. There was no creative for me. I had a good run, that’s what I was told.”
Related to the “Women in Wrestling” segment from TNA at the 2007 Final Resolution, Hemme came off as a heel from it. She stated that it was not intended to be a heel moment. Also, it was a Vince Russo idea and it was actually meant for Chyna.
“This was a very tough spot because actually, Vince in his heart of hearts didn’t want it to be a heel spot for me. Actually, it wasn’t even supposed to be me. It was supposed to be Chyna. This was supposed to be Chyna. Vince Russo loves Chyna, we all love Chyna. Something happened where she wasn’t able to come but he had already written it with her in mind. He was a huge advocate for women and women’s wrestling because I was so dark at this time, I mean you could tell just by – look at my hair, look at my clothes. When I left WWE it took me years to come back and be more of the me that you know today.”
In her last moment in the Top 5 was related to her time in the ring with Awesome Kong. A moment that Hemme says she is glad was the last one mentioned because it is personally the pinnacle of her in-ring career. Shortly after this was when she was taken out physically from the ring.
“Over time I ended up herniating at that time, I now have three of them, but I had two herniated discs and they’re up high on my neck and they were protruding and sitting on my spine and that is a recipe for disaster. So one of my last matches every time I got thrown into the turnbuckle, I could feel paralyzation from the neck down and it was just moments but it was weird. It happened a couple times.”
Hemme and Shin would wrap up the interview by talking about her project titled KAYfABE which has been in development for years. She says it is still in the works and there will be more to come.
If you haven’t subscribed to Ring the Belle, go ahead and head on over to YouTube and do so. The team over that has just celebrated their four-year anniversary.
If you use any quotes in this article please use a link to Diva Dirt for the transcription and credit Ring the Belle for the interview.
AEW has provided a press release that provides details of the promotion’s first video game titled “Fight Forever.” THQ Nordic has been confirmed as the publisher of the game. No date of release has been provided but on Aug. 12 more gameplay will be shown at the THQ Nordic showcase.
THQ Nordic Gives AEW: Fight Forever The Push Fans Have Been Waiting For!
Vienna/Austria, Jacksonville/Florida, Tokyo/Japan August 3, 2022:
THQ Nordic GmbH and All Elite Wrestling, LLC (AEW) and YUKE’S Co., Ltd. today confirmed that the release of AEW: Fight Forever will be the tag-team event of the century! The two companies have joined forces to bring developer YUKES’ latest creation to PS4TM, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series XS, PC and Nintendo Switch.
“One of the first things I did after signing with AEW was to ask Tony Khan to let me help assemble the best gaming team on the planet, to make the best wrestling game ever,” said Kenny Omega, EVP of AEW and former AEW World Champion and AEW World Tag Team Champion. “Well, we just landed the perfect finisher by partnering with global publishing and distribution powerhouse THQ Nordic for AEW: Fight Forever. The THQ brand has long been synonymous with wrestling games – there is simply no more qualified partner to bring AEW: Fight Forever to the millions of wrestling fans the world over.”
YUKE’S president and CEO Yukinori Taniguchi said “I am both gratified and excited to have the opportunity to work with AEW—who is breathing new life into the pro wrestling industry—and the THQ Brand, with whom we have created an entire era of pro wrestling games. Using the expertise we have cultivated over the years, we are taking on this project with the ultimate staff from the YUKE’S Development Team in order to recreate AEW’s appeal within a video game to the highest degree. We hope that fans will enjoy experiencing the most cutting-edge technology, and the next evolution, in pro wrestling gaming.”
“Kenny’s incredible vision for AEW: Fight Forever is informed by his wrestling pedigree both inside the ring and on the controller,” said Executive Producer Reinhard Pollice, THQ Nordic. “Combine that vision with YUKES’ unparalleled wrestling game development history is resulting in an AEW experience that draws heavily on the arcade feel that first won wrestling gamer hearts more than two decades ago.”
A touch of nostalgia is just the beginning in AEW: Fight Forever. Players can look forward to pulling off the most current wrestling moves seen on wildly popular AEW programming. This, in addition to innovative, tandem offensive moves. Online co-op wrestling is going completely next level with Tag Team matches that feature sequences of team maneuvers performed with simple commands. A long roster of the most popular AEW wrestlers, deep career mode, create-a- wrestler, signature AEW arenas, multiple match types and even some good ol’ fashioned, unsanctioned fun await!
• Match Types o Single Matches o Tag-Team o 3-Way o 4-Way o Ladder Matches o Casino Battle Royale o Falls Count Anywhere o Unsanctioned Lights-Out (allows use of weapons) o Exploding Barbed Wire Death Matches
• Career Mode • Wide Range of Customization Modes o Custom Wrestlers (attire and appearance) o Custom Move-Sets o Custom Entrances o Custom Teams o Custom Arenas
• Online Multiplayer • Leaderboards
So far there are eight women confirmed for the game (via SmackDown Hotel): Thunder Rosa, Britt Baker, Jade Cargill, Abadon, Kris Statlander, Nyla Rose, Hikaru Shida, and Yuka Sakazaki. It also has been rumored that Ruby Soho will be in the game as well.
Check back in with Diva Dirt for further news on AEW’s “Fight Forever.”
IMPACT Wrestling’s Madison Rayne has joined AEW to assist with coaching female talent. She has been working as in-ring talent for IMPACT in the Knockouts Division and she has also been producing.
In a press release from AEW in regards to the expansion of talent relations and development, the following was said in regards to bringing in Rayne –
New: #AEW just announced extended backstage roles for multiple people, and says it is bringing in Madison Rayne as a coach for the women’s division. pic.twitter.com/z30NnR0E1m
Madison Rayne (Ashley Nichole Lomberger) will join AEW as a coach in the women’s division, and kick-off her new role tonight in her hometown of Columbus, Ohio. Madison has competed in numerous professional wrestling promotions where she has held multiple championship titles, including 5-time Women’s World Champion. She has more than 15 years of experience in professional wrestling, and is also a proud mom to a daughter.
While speaking on Busted Open Radio, AEW’s CEO Tony Khan has commented on if he expects Rayne to join any in-ring action –
“I’m really excited. She’s going to be great for the team. She’s excited. Everyone is excited to have Madison Rayne as part of AEW. I’m not saying she wouldn’t wrestle anymore, we’re open to it. We have other people in the office who do wrestle as part of their schedule, so I’m open to it. I haven’t talked a lot about it because right now, I’m primarily focused on the whole company, but it’s definitely something I’m open to and would like,” he said. (Fightful)
Rayne was most recently one-half of the Knockouts World Tag Team Champions alongside Tenille Dashwood known as The Influence. They have since added Gisele Shaw to the group. There is no official word on the status of Rayne with IMPACT.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHRobckVVXU
Check back in with Diva Dirt for more news on both AEW and IMPACT!
Former IMPACT Knockouts World Tag Team and WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion Cassie Lee (Peyton Royce) has confirmed that she is pregnant.
Along with her husband, AEW’s Shawn Spears, the two have made the pregnancy announcement on social media. Lee showed a video of her giving the news to Spears. A slide show was shown of the growing family as well. This will be the couple’s first child. The couple has been married since 2019.
In April, Lee along with her tag team partner and best friend Jessie McKay (Billie Kay) announced that they were stepping away from wrestling. The team was released from WWE in April 2021 and joined IMPACT in October of the same year. Together known as The IIconics in WWE went with the name The IInspiration in IMPACT. As The IInspiration they held the Knockouts tag gold for 133-days before dropping the belts to The Influence in March.
Diva Dirt sends our congratulations and best wishes to Cassie Lee and Shawn Spears as they grow their family.
NWA’s next big two-day event is shaping up for the women’s division as NWA 74 will be taking place later this month.
As announced on Busted Open Radio, there will be a rematch for the NWA World Women’s Tag Team Titles as the current champions Pretty Empowered face off against the women they captured the titles from, The Hex. This time the gold will be determined in a Kingshighway Street Fight. The match will take place on Night Two – Aug. 28.
Just announced by @Sienna on @BustedOpenRadio, based on the controversial finish in their last encounters, The Hex will challenge Pretty Empowered in a Kingshighway Street Fight for the World Women's Tag Team Titles at #NWA74! ?
In addition to this tag match, the first entrant into the second annual Burke Invitational Gauntlet Match was confirmed to be Samantha Starr. She will be accompanied by Baby Doll. The Burke Invitational takes place on Night One with the winner facing the NWA World Women’s Champion on Night Two.
It was previously reported that Kamille will defend the championship that she has held for 423-days and counting against Taya Valkyrie. The winner will be the champion to face the challenger on Night Two.
BREAKING: The 1st entrant in The Burke Invitational at #NWA74 is 'The Perfect Knockout' Samantha Starr accompanied by Baby Doll!
The Invitational returns on Night 1 of #NWA74 and the winner will earn a Women's Championship Match on Night 2!
Kamille (c) vs. Taya Valkyrie – NWA World Women’s Championship
Samantha Starr vs. TBD – Burke Invitational Match
Night Two
Kamille or Taya Valkyrie vs. Winner of Burke Invitational – NWA World Women’s Championship
Pretty Empowered (c) vs. The Hex – Street Fight for NWA World Women’s Tag Team Championships
A new championship belt has been announced for the NWA Women’s TV Title but any further news on if it will be included at NWA 74 has not been confirmed at this time.
Check back in with Diva Dirt for more news and results on the women of NWA.
Katana Chance & Kayden Carter are (finally) your NEW NXT Women’s Tag Team Champions! They become the seventh team to hold the gold since the belts were introduced at the start of last year.
The championships were left vacant prior to this match when previous champion Cora Jade turned on her partner Roxanne Perez and dropped her belt into the trash. Once it was fished out by WWE Hall of Famer Alundra Blayze last week, it was confirmed that new champions would be crowned in a Fatal 4-way Elimination Match.
The long-standing tag team of Carter & Chance have finally captured their first gold in NXT on the Aug. 2 episode of NXT 2.0. They won the bout by last eliminating Toxic Attraction. Also in the match were the teams of Yulisa Leon/Valentina Feroz and Ivy Nile/Tatum Paxley. Leon & Feroz were eliminated first followed by Nile & Paxley. The four teams opened the show and were given proper time to put on a solid match. And they did just that.
Feroz was first pinned for her team to be eliminated. Perched up on the shoulders of Paxley, she was tossed off and ran right into a punch by Nile. Nile would get the pin as Leon tried to get in to save her partner but it was too late. Paxley would be eliminated for her team as Jacy Jayne stole the pin from Carter.
Now we are down to the two teams that battle for the gold at In Your House. The storyline continues between the KC’s and Toxic Attraction. The former two-time champions attempted to gain the gold for a third time by doing the same thing they did to the Carter and Chance at In Your House. This time, the KC’s wouldn’t let it happen again when Gigi Dolin pulled out Carter to avoid the tag team finish on Jayne.
Carter would fight back and neutralize Dolin before Chance would hit a crossbody off the top turnbuckle. Back in the ring, Jayne tried to use the bounce off the ropes to roll up Carter but she kicked out sending Jayne in between the ropes for a swift kick by Chance. This set up Jayne for the tag team finish and Chance hit the 450 to get the win!!
The new champs celebrated in the ring as the crowd erupted.
Later in the night, Toxic Attraction was seen in pure rage backstage for not winning the gold. The NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose would join the rest of her Toxic Attraction faction in the disagreement of the new champions. Rose would then head right to the ring to face Sarray in a non-title match.
Rose would end up defeating Sarray before sending a message to Zoey Stark. Stark will be facing Rose for the NXT Women’s Title at Heatwave in two weeks. After targeting Sarray with a steel chair, Stark came out to chase Rose off.
Tag team wrestling is still thriving and NXT is about to crown new champions tonight!
As a result of Cora Jade turning on Roxanne Perez and subsequently throwing her championship belt in the trash, new champions need to be crowned. Last week, WWE Hall of Famer Alundra Blayze made a special appearance to grab the gold out of the trash and announced an upcoming Fatal 4-way Elimination Match. That match will take place tonight!
Which team will become the NEW #WWENXT Women's Tag Team Champions tonight on @WWENXT 2.0?
The teams involved will be Katana Chance & Kayden Carter vs. Yulisa Leon & Valentina Feroz vs. Ivy Nile & Tatum Paxley vs. Toxic Attraction (Gigi Dolin & Jacy Jayne). Toxic Attraction is the only team out of the four that have held the gold and are two-time champions.
Also set for tonight is a match between NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose and Sarray. The title will not be on the line, but Sarray wants her shot at the champion after she wasn’t able to compete in the Battle Royal that made Zoey Stark the number one contender. Stark faces Rose for the title in two weeks at Heatwave.
As first reported by PWInsider, AEW has filed a trademark for “All Elite Women.”
While not confirmed what the trademark is for, it can be speculated that it may possibly be for a new wrestling series which would make it the fifth for AEW. Following the flagship show of Dynamite as well as Rampage and YouTube shows Dark and Dark: Elevation. If it is not for in-ring programming, PWInsider speculates it could be TV reality show based.
The trademark reads as follows:
– “Entertainment services in the nature of creation, development, and production of television programming; Entertainment services in the nature of professional athletes competing in wrestling; Fan clubs; Music production services; On-line journals, namely, blogs featuring sports and entertainment; Publishing of electronic publications; Television show production; Educational and entertainment services, namely, a continuing program about wrestling accessible by radio, television, satellite, audio, video and computer networks; Entertainment in the nature of live performances by professional wrestlers; Entertainment in the nature of wrestling contests; Entertainment services, namely, wrestling exhibits and performances by a professional wrestler and entertainer; Entertainment services, namely, providing temporary use of non-downloadable video games; Entertainment, namely, a continuing wrestling show broadcast over television, satellite, audio, and video media; Providing entertainment news and information specifically in the field of sport and entertainment via a website; Providing online music, not downloadable; Providing wrestling news and information via a global computer network; Providing a website featuring non-downloadable publications in the nature of electronic books, magazines, newsletters, journals, periodicals, articles, brochures, and on-line journals in the field of sports and entertainment; Providing an Internet website portal in the field of entertainment, cultural and sporting events”
-“Retail store services featuring a wide variety of sports and entertainment merchandise; Advertising and promotional services; On-line retail store services featuring a wide variety of sports and entertainment merchandise; Organizing exhibitions for wrestling events; Promotional sponsorship of professional wrestling events”
-“Dolls; Skateboards; Action figures and accessories therefor; Board games; Card games; Costume masks; Playing cards; Stuffed toy animals; Tabletop games; Video game machines; Video game machines for use with televisions; Bobblehead dolls; Cases for action figures; Hand-held units for playing electronic games; Toy action figures; Toy wrestling rings”
WWE is under new leadership. Vince McMahon announced his retirement on July 22 and this change led to Stephanie McMahon being made Co-CEO along with Nick Khan and Triple H becoming head of creative. Since then, this has created a lot of optimism within the company moving forward and it started showing at SummerSlam this past weekend.
On the Aug. 1 episode of Raw this week all eyes were on the product looking forward to seeing some changes already taking place. According to a backstage report from Fightful Select it did just that and gave optimism to a lot of the talent.
We will have an article coming to https://t.co/yx41xoLhXR on the optimism surrounding WWE Raw last night!
Fightful’s report continues stating that they were told the show would be a “statement” from the new regime. This resulted in fresh matchups, more wrestling and stakes, and more women’s wrestling/programming throughout. They added that not only people at the show seemed excited. They have heard from numerous wrestlers across multiple brands that have indicated that they have a renewed optimism with Triple H heading up creative. One NXT talent said that Dakota Kai being brought back so quickly was a great sign, and makes them feel hopeful for their own future as well.
Furthermore, two top talents in WWE said that they were excited to not wrestle the same person every week, and hoped that was a key move going forward. Fightful says that after speaking to over two dozen talent, they have not had anyone raise particular concerns within the roster about Vince’s exit from creative, which speaks volumes. Triple H has been credited for having visions and integrating things that were heavily Vince McMahon projects, such as Maximum Male Models.
Check back with Diva Dirt for more news on the women of Raw moving forward!
Chaos erupted on the Aug. 2 Monday Night Raw episode courtesy of Bayley, Dakota Kai, and IYO SKY. The three new members of the Raw women’s roster shocked the fans by appearing at SummerSlam sending a message to the Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair. Now it is time for the fallout.
Through pure respect, Becky Lynch stood by the side of Belair after their match at SummerSlam to make the newly formed trio back down. Unfortunately for Belair, Lynch won’t be able to have her back from here on out.
Kicking off Raw, Becky Lynch confirmed that she suffered a separated shoulder injury during the SummerSlam bout. After addressing her injury to the WWE Universe she would invite out Belair and the two embraced before Lynch left the ring. Moments later, the trio (who really need a name) was seen making Lynch their first target of the night with a steel chair in hand.
They wouldn’t stop there.
Backstage Bayley, Kai, and SKY were asked why they targeted Lynch. Bayley confirmed that this whole thing isn’t about Lynch or even Belair it is about themselves. She said that we will all see what she means soon enough.
Their next attack came at the chagrin of Alexa Bliss and Asuka. Bliss and Asuka were firmly in a match against each other when the trio decided to interfere and cause a no-contest between the two. As the group attacks Bliss and Asuka, Belair rushes to the ring to even the odds and chase them away into the crowd. Belair states she wants a match with one of them tonight and it doesn’t matter which one. SKY points out that she wants to be the one to take on the Raw Women’s Champion.
Later in the night, Belair took on SKY. The trio had an interview backstage prior to SKY making her way to the ring on her own. Bayley explains their actions a bit more. She says that the show has been on a downward spiral since she left. Adding two of the very best in the whole world with her. Kai added that they know “how to play the game.”
The match between Belair and SKY was given plenty of time (despite the many commercial breaks throughout Raw). Eventually, Bayley and Kai would make their way to ringside which gave the numbers advantage to SKY…but only for a moment. Bliss and Asuka would join the fray and help even the odds for Belair.
The match would eventually break down to another no-contest result. The women not in the match would all enter the ring and start fighting amongst themselves which led to the referee calling for the bell. All six women would continue to brawl until many, many, officials had to come out and separate them.
At the end of the show, Rhea Ripley was the only other woman from the Raw brand to appear on the show. She would get involved as part of the Judgment Day against the Mysterios. Targeting Dominik as always before Edge comes out for the save.
The last note for the women tonight, indie talent Raychell Rose appeared as part of the WWE medical personnel. She was in the final segment with the Mysterios and she was backstage helping out Lynch after her attack. Rose is currently the ROW Diamonds Division Champion as well as the New Texas Pro Women’s Champion. Both titles were previously held by NXT’s Roxanne Perez.
Check back in with Diva Dirt for more news and results from the women of Raw.
Becky Lynch kicked off the Aug. 1 episode of Raw with some bad news.
The former Raw Women’s Champion has confirmed earlier reports that she is in fact injured from her match at SummerSlam against Bianca Belair. She made her way to the ring with a sling and cast on her arm and took a deep breath before delivering the news.
After separating her shoulder early in the Raw Women’s Championship match at SummerSlam she said she could have done one of two things: given up OR she could have given it everything she had. She fought through 20 minutes with Bianca Belair and did what she had to do, not only for herself but to create the best women’s division ever.
She goes on to define “The Man” and that we start a new era with a new comeback story that starts now. Lynch then calls for Belair to join her in the ring. Belair told Lynch, “You not only defined The Man, but you are The Man.” The two would embrace in the middle of the ring. Before walking off, Lynch said, “Hold it down B, I’ll see you soon.” The crowd chanted “Becky” as she made her way to the back.
Leaving Belair in the ring with a mic, she says she has nothing but respect for Lynch. While Belair was explaining the mutual respect between the two of them, Lynch was being attacked backstage by Bayley, Dakota Kai, and IYO SKY. The attack appears on the screen and Belair rushes out of the ring to run to the back to save Lynch.
Lynch was attacked with a steel chair by the new faction. By the time Belair made it to Lynch, the trio had already run off.
There was no confirmation on if Lynch would need surgery but did state on WWE’s social media that she would be out for “several months.”
All eyes will be on Raw tonight for hopefully a stellar fallout from the exciting SummerSlam.
Bianca Belair is still the Raw Women’s Champion after putting on a clinic with Becky Lynch to open up the biggest event of the Summer. The match not only put the fans on their feet to start the show but was arguably the best of the night. What would come after this match though left people on their feet as three women would show up to change the landscape of the Raw women’s division.
Bayley first returned after over a year absence due to injury, but she didn’t come alone. Dakota Kai, who was released from WWE in April, made a shocking return to a smiling Bayley. Lastly, NXT’s Io Shirai, now going by the name of IYO SKY, made her official main roster debut and joined both Bayley and Dakota to seemingly form a new faction.
The three would approach Belair in the ring before Lynch would have her back after an incredible match and a handshake between the two showing the utmost respect. Belair vs. Lynch has been one of the best storytelling arcs over a year’s time in recent memory.
In addition to this, Lynch has reportedly suffered an injury to her shoulder. What will be explained from this tonight and what happens next?
There have been rumors circulating that Naomi and Sasha Banks may be making their return. And as early as tonight. There hasn’t been anything concrete or a reliable source to note this. If they were to come back tonight, making the save for Bianca may be the best bet.
With #SummerSlam in the rearview, who will make the biggest statement tonight on #WWERaw?
Although everyone will be focused on this unfolding, let’s not forget the rest of the roster. With SummerSlam marking the first full show under Triple H’s reign as head of creative, where will we see this benefit the rest of the roster?
There have been speculations since the opening match of SummerSlam that Becky Lynch had sustained an injury. Despite finishing the match and having the back of Bianca Belair post-match, there were concerns by many fans online on if she was okay.
Fightful Select is now reporting that they have been told that Lynch separated her shoulder early in her match with Belair. She worked through the pain to finish it. So far, the next steps aren’t known, but they have been told it did affect creative to some degree.
When they asked for further information, they weren’t given a timetable on her return, and were even told it was 50/50 on possibly needing surgery to fix it. She is expected to miss some ring time, however, that amount of time is uncertain.
More will likely be explained on tonight’s Raw.
Check back in with Diva Dirt for more on Becky Lynch and the women of the red brand.
Ronda Rousey faced Liv Morgan in an attempt to regain the SmackDown Women’s Championship at SummerSlam over the weekend. Things didn’t go as planned for Rousey as the referee awarded Morgan the victory which left the match with a controversial finish.
Morgan was locked into a submission by Rousey whose shoulders went down to the mat for the referee’s count of three. What the official did not see was that Morgan had tapped out in the submission just before the three count happened. Rousey would lose it after the match knowing that she rightfully won and after taking it out on Morgan would target the referee.
Following her attack on referee Dan Engler at SummerSlam, Ronda Rousey has been fined an undisclosed amount and will be suspended.
An irate Rousey attacked the official after her SmackDown Women’s Title Match, claiming he missed Liv Morgan tapping out to the Armbar while he counted the pinfall.
Due to her suspension, Rousey will not appear on this week’s Friday Night SmackDown.
Check back in with Diva Dirt for any further news on SmackDown talent and check back for a Discussion Post for the blue brand every Friday.
With Io Shirai, now going by IYO SKY, and making a shocking main roster debut at SummerSlam on Saturday, let’s take a look at one of her best matches in her NXT career. Shirai and Candice LeRae had a rivalry in NXT that kept giving, and this was just the start! And with a match time of 15-minutes they didn’t hold back.
Their storyline began like many others. Former friends and tag team partners turned into bitter enemies. But with the right two opponents, that formula is dynamite.
This bout wasted little time to get started. LeRae charges Shirai and takes her down before the bell even has a chance to ring. Once the referee was able to separate the rivals for even a moment the match was able to get underway. Things quickly spilled to the outside and Shirai was looking to get this match over quickly with a massive suplex to LeRae on top of the announce desk. LeRae struggled to even move as she rolled onto the floor. LeRae was able to get back into the ring just before the 10-count would have counted her out of the match.
Shirai capitalized on this momentum and would continue to stay in control of the match and after locking in a submission she executed an Air Raid Crash out of the corner getting a near fall. Moments later after hanging LeRae up on the ropes, Shirai went for a missile drop kick from the top turnbuckle. LeRae was able to get out of the way just in time and start to gain momentum in the bout.
Late into the match, both women pulled out every move they could think of. Shirai had LeRae up for a fireman’s carry when LeRae twisted into a reverse rana pinning her rival’s shoulders to the mat for a count of two. Following this, a swinging neck breaker from the middle rope from LeRae to Shirai granted her another near fall.
Both competitors would head up top on for Shirai to execute a reverse Spanish Fly! LeRae still managed to kick out much to the shock of the crowd and Shirai herself. Shirai’s frustration would set in as the two continue to trade shots.
Finally, Shirai locked in the Koji Clutch which had LeRae pass out and awarded the victory to Shirai.
Tonight’s Raw should be the first time we see the newly named IYO SKY on the main roster since debuting at SummerSlam over the weekend. Along with Bayley and Dakota Kai it is exciting to see what this new stable can do.
What are your favorite moments of this match? Of the Shirai vs. LeRae overall rivalry? Leave your thoughts below!
Women of Wrestling returns on September 17 after a long hiatus.
Taped episodes from 2019 have been airing this year in anticipation of the upcoming relaunch. AJ Mendez, formerly WWE Divas Champion AJ Lee, has joined the promotion as an executive producer and color commentator. In the Twitter post below, Lee introduces a sneak peek of the upcoming season.
Big News! New episodes of WOW – Women Of Wrestling drop the weekend of September 17! pic.twitter.com/3aWjLGlJa7
You can also check out the press release below for more information –
WOW – WOMEN OF WRESTLING, the world’s premier all-female sports entertainment entity, today revealed its new key art and announced that the series will premiere nationwide the weekend of Sept. 17. WOW, the only all-female wrestling organization with a global TV footprint, will be available in syndication via Paramount Global Content Distribution, marking the largest-ever distribution deal in the history of women’s wrestling.
WOW – WOMEN OF WRESTLING has been cleared in 100% of the U.S. including the following station groups: CBS-owned-and-operated stations, Sinclair Communications, Nexstar Broadcasting, Hearst Television, TEGNA Media, Weigel Broadcasting, Gray Media and Cox Television. Internationally, the show has also already been licensed in Canada (CHCH and CHEK), Australia (10 Play) and Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore (MOLA), with more to come.
WOW is owned by trailblazing sports executive Jeanie Buss and was created by David McLane, founder of the original GLOW: Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling. Global professional wrestling superstar, screenwriter, mental health advocate and New York Times bestselling author AJ Mendez serves as executive producer and color commentator.
“From sports to politics to business and beyond, women’s voices are being heard louder than ever, and the Superheroes of WOW couldn’t be more excited to step into the ring on Sept. 17 and join this revolution,” said WOW owner Jeanie Buss. “We’re grateful to our partners at Paramount Global Content Distribution for providing a platform for these inspiring athletes.”
“The Superheroes of WOW have come from all walks of life to prove who’s the best, and are eager to show the world what’s been missing for years from women’s professional wrestling,” said WOW creator David McLane.
“We can’t wait to share the thrilling sports entertainment experience of WOW – WOMEN OF WRESTLING with a wider audience,” says Dan Cohen, chief content licensing officer at Paramount Global. “We know viewers will be inspired and empowered by the Superheroes’ athleticism and emotional backstories, while being thoroughly entertained by this unique roster of athletes. We look forward to working with Jeanie Buss and David McLane as we continue to grow this brand.”
You can watch prior episodes of WOW currently on Pluto TV.
WOW has also shown if you are in the area that you can see them live at the end of August. More information in the video below.
Saraya, formerly known as Paige in WWE, parted ways with the company on July 7 when they chose not to re-sign her.
She was forced to retire from in-ring competition due to her neck injury in 2017. Later, she would serve in a managerial role for The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka & Kairi Sane) but after closing the storyline with them in 2020 she was no longer utilized on WWE programming.
Saraya has made a post-WWE appearance for Starrcast V over the weekend. During her Turn The Page segment, she commented on what she is currently working on and how although she loves AEW she doesn’t see herself going there anytime soon.
“I’m in the middle of writing a book right now, which I’m really excited about. We got a book, it’s going to be another year before it officially comes out. We’re in the middle of writing that. We’re doing other things, but I’m not allowed to say anything right now. It’s non-wrestling related, sorry guys. I’m not going to be going to AEW anytime soon. AEW seems great. I love AEW. I would love to face Britt Baker one day if the time is right, that would be awesome. All my friends are there now,” she said.
Saraya also spoke at the event on the recent WWE SummerSlam and her reaction to the Bayley, Dakota Kai, and IYO SKY stable that has formed. She also gives nods to both Sonya Deville and Mandy Rose as a of late.
Along with this she was asked about Sasha Banks and Naomi and feels that they will come back now that Triple H is in charge.
“Oh she’s a big part of it (Sasha’s part of the women’s revolution). I mean everyone loves Sasha Banks right? The four horsewomen in general is such a big pinnacle part of the women’s revolution. I think she’ll be back. I think now with Hunter in charge and taking the reins and everything. I think SummerSlam in general is showing how much WWE has changed over night. I don’t think anyone has been 100% happy with a pay-per-view in a long time and people are walking away from SummerSlam being like ‘Holy Shit’ right? This is the turning point. So I feel that Sasha and Noami will hopefully, in my opinion, will come back.”
Paige on Sasha Banks; thinks her and Naomi will comeback under Hunter. Her reaction to Dakota Kai, Bayley, & Io. Also so proud of both Sonya & Mandy Rose pic.twitter.com/C2LP3Z4q4c
As Paige, Saraya became the first-ever NXT Women’s Champion and battled in that first championship match against Emma (Tenille Dashwood). The two former Divas took a picture together at this event.
SummerSlam 2022 was an exciting night for WWE’s women’s division.
WWE’s “biggest party of the summer” kicked off with the Raw Women’s Championship match pitting Bianca Belair against longtime foe Becky Lynch. The story focused on the full-circle moment harkening back to one year ago when Lynch returned from maternity leave to end Belair’s SmackDown Women’s title reign in 26 seconds. As the story goes, Belair fought her way back up the ranks and fulfilled her redemption by defeating Big Time Becks at WrestleMania 38.
In Nashville, Belair and Lynch entered the match bigger and better than they’ve ever been, ready to settle it all in this rubber match. The bout was non-stop in terms of action with both women pulling out all the stops in an effort to determine the true champion. The finish saw Belair flip Becky with reverse Spanish Fly off the second rope before landing the KOD in emphatic fashion.
Post-match, Lynch offered Belair a handshake and hug to signify the official end of their feud and perhaps a babyface turn for Becky. The story only escalated from there as Bayley, Dakota Kai, and IYO SKY all made separate entrances to form a new faction. The trio faced off with both Belair and Lynch before retreating.
The other women’s bout at SummerSlam saw Liv Morgan defending her SmackDown Women’s Championship for the first time against Ronda Rousey. Morgan turned her dreams into reality earlier this month when she won the Money in the Bank contract and cashed in on Rousey later that night to win her first title ever in WWE. Naturally, “the baddest woman on the planet” would want her rematch.
Rousey vs. Morgan took place in the semi-main event of the night, and it did not last very long. Rousey targeted Morgan’s left arm to the point officials questioned if Liv could continue. Throughout the bout Rousey applied the armbar numerous times but the champ was able to make it to the ropes to keep breaking the hold, frustrating Rousey in the process.
The finish came shortly after as Ronda locked up the arm, but Liv was on top of Rousey for the three-count. In the midst of the ref counting, Liv tapped out but the ref never saw it. The referee ruled Liv Morgan the winner and still the SmackDown Women’s Champion.
Ronda Rousey seemed to officially turn heel when she attacked both Morgan and the referee after the match before heading to the back.
With all said and done, Bianca Belair and Liv Morgan are still at the top of WWE while Raw‘s women’s division looks to be receiving a boost from the arrival of Bayley, Dakota Kai, and IYO SKY.
What did you think of the women’s division action at WWE SummerSlam? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Relive women’s wrestling history by reading Ring Post Journal’s 2021 Women’s Wrestling Year in Review, available exclusively on Amazon. A portion of proceeds will be donated to National Alliance on Mental Illness in honor of Daffney.
Ding dong, hello! We have a new women’s faction in WWE!
After Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair defeated Becky Lynch in the opening match at WWE SummerSlam, Bayley returned after being out of action with an injury for over a year. And she didn’t come alone.
First, Dakota Kai returned to the company after being let go on April 29. Three months post-release, the former NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion is now on the main roster and is in a stable led by Bayley. But, they aren’t the only ones.
Io Shirai, now going by IYO SKY, also made a shocking entrance to make the trio complete. Shirai hasn’t been seen since NXT Stand & Deliver during WrestleMania 38 weekend in April. Her contract was reportedly coming up soon, however, she is clearly sticking around now.
The segment ended with Bayley, Kai, and SKY face-to-face with Belair and Lynch, who appeared to turn babyface by hugging Belair after the match. Ultimately, the trio retreated.
Fightful Select reports that this stable was pitched “quite a while ago” before Kai’s release, but Vince McMahon “rejected it.” The report went on to state, “There were other versions pitched that included Raquel and Kay Lee Ray before they got called up and repackaged, respectively.”
Check back in with Diva Dirt for more news and results from the 2022 SummerSlam event.
Relive women’s wrestling history by reading Ring Post Journal’s 2021 Women’s Wrestling Year in Review, available exclusively on Amazon. A portion of proceeds will be donated to National Alliance on Mental Illness in honor of Daffney.
We have made it to the biggest event of the summer as WWE’s SummerSlam takes place tonight.
A lot of eyes are on the show expecting more than normal with Triple H now in the driver seat of creative. Could we finally see some returns? Bayley? Charlotte Flair? Queen Zelina? Or how about some sneak attacks throughout the show? Shotzi? Rhea? Alexa? Beth Phoenix? How about some call-ups? Io Shirai? Guess we will have to see if more will happen outside of what is advertised.
PWInsider also has reported that Edge is said to be in attendance so will Beth be with him. The last report from Fightful says they hadn’t heard of Bayley being in town but that was around noon today.
There has also been talks of a segment to take place with Maximum Male Models so Maxxine Dupri may show up.
Rhea Ripley is shown in the graphic with the Judgment Day so expect her at ringside at least.
For Diva Dirt’s preview and predictions for tonight’s show, you can click here!
As always feel free to discuss tonight’s show in the comment section below.
STARDOM had its Stardom 5 Star Grand Prix 2022 event on July 30 in which KAIRI challenged Saya Kamitani for the Wonder of Stardom Championship. Kamitani states that she will defeat KAIRI to retain. Currently, Kamitani has held the white belt since December for 212-days and counting. She defeated Tam Nakano to become champion for the first time.
KAIRI held this championship one time in her career in 2016. She defeated Santana Garrett for it and held it for 364-days before being defeated by Mayu Iwatani at Gold May 2017. She would make her NXT debut later that year.
KAIRI made her challenge to Saya Kamitani for the Wonder of Stardom title. Kamitani says she will defeat KAIRI!
Cosmic Angels (Tam Nakano & Natsupoi) def. Oedo Tai (Starlight Kid & Fukigen Death), Oedo Tai (Saki Kashima & Momo Watanabe), STARS (Koguma & Hanan), Oedo Tai (Rina & Ruaka), and Queen’s Quest (Miyu Amasaki & Lady C) in a Gauntlet Tag Team Match
Red Stars Block: Mai Sakurai (2) def. Momo Kohgo (0)
Blue Stars Block: Ami Sourei (2) def. Saya Iida (0)
Red Stars Block: SAKI (2) def. Unagi Sayaka (0)
Red Stars Block: Risa Sera (2) def. Maika (0)
Red Stars Block: Syuri (2) def. AZM (0)
Nanae Takahashi & KAIRI def. Lady C & Saya Kamitani
Nanae Takahashi challenged Syuri to a World of Stardom Championship match
KAIRI officially challenged Saya Kamitani to a Wonder of Stardom Championship match
Blue Stars Block: MIRAI (2) def. Mayu Iwatani (0)
Red Stars Block: Himeka (2) def. Utami Hayashishita (0)
Today is the day for the biggest event of the summer as two championship matches are scheduled to take place at SummerSlam.
First, we have Bianca Belair defending her Raw Women’s Title against Becky Lynch. These two women have been feuding since SummerSlam last year when Lynch made her shocking return and defeated Belair in 26 seconds. Since then the two women have had their separate feuds but came back to battle it out at WrestleMania 38. This time, Belair would seek out revenge and achieved it as she took the gold off of Lynch.
This time we see the same scenario with Belair having to defend at SummerSlam, however, this time she knows Lynch is her opponent. On paper, there is nothing to surprise her. The real thought here is who will come out with this win? Will Belair get her full story redemption or will Lynch beat The EST two SummerSlams in a row taking gold from her?
"It was one of the lowest moments of my career."@BiancaBelairWWE discusses feeling "embarrassed" after her 26-second loss to Becky Lynch at SummerSlam before her journey of redemption.#SummerSlampic.twitter.com/Q8CGrxTjEk
Nick: Despite seeing this booking several times over the past year, the match between these two at WrestleMania gets me excited for this exchange. I am all over the place when it comes to how this match should/will end. With Alexa Bliss seemingly the next challenger I could see her vs. Becky being the next big feud but I rather see Bliss vs. Belair for something fresher. Bliss teasing more of a heel persona also makes me think she will be the next to face Belair.
Bayley may return here also. I also don’t want to see repeat booking where Belair loses twice at SummerSlam. Because I feel that it is more concrete of what Lynch could do next without winning the belt back and that they will give her a side feud, I am going to go with Belair retaining.
Gary: While I appreciate the ‘full circle’ moment of these two facing off, I feel like it’s too soon to have Becky back in the title picture. Her storyline of losses and frustration was interesting to me and I’d like to see more chinks in her armour develop so a loss here tonight can set that off. Bianca Belair retains (but please not in 30 seconds)
Winner: Bianca Belair
Chris: With Bianca and Becky, I personally think it’s too soon for Bianca to drop the title but I see a lot of potential feuds Becky can have as champ as well. Overall I’m gonna have to go with Bianca because she needs this redemption story from last year’s SummerSlam.
Winner: Bianca Belair
Colby: This is the match I’m most looking forward to on the entire card. I mean, it’s not like we’re working with much anyway. Nevertheless, WWE has managed to execute a year-long story between these two icons. I was completely content with Belair completing her redemption arc at WrestleMania, but I have to say they’ve done a fair job with Becky now seeking her revenge. There’s no doubt these two could very well steal the show like they did at WrestleMania, and I believe the result will be the same. Let’s move on to Belair vs. Ripley.
Winner: Bianca Belair
Next up we have the SmackDown Women’s Championship on the line. Liv Morgan, the ultimate underdog even as a champion, will have to defend against the woman she defeated for the title – Ronda Rousey. Morgan won the Money in the Bank briefcase at the beginning of the month and cashed in the same night and thankfully successfully! Now she has to take on Rousey when she is 100%.
The booking heading into this match is pretty split. Both the champion and challenger have looked good in recent weeks. Morgan just continues to be referred to as an underdog and that could all change if she can get past Rousey this weekend.
Nick: WWE’s normal booking has made Liv seem possible to win here. Or if she does, win clean. I think WWE is going to surprise us here and Liv is going to retain. They surprised us with finally letting her win not only MITB but the belt as it is so I think we are going to get her to retain and move forward as champion. That being said will she be able to do it without a return helping her? We’ll see.
With Shotzi calling out Ronda after SmackDown this week, could she have something to do with the result of this match as well?
Winner: Liv Morgan
Gary: Please WWE, do not end Liv’s reign yet! I do not predict a super clean victory here, not that Liv would cheat but perhaps a ref missing Ronda get the ropes or a dreaded roll up of doom with Ronda snapping on Liv, in the end, to turn heel and continue their program a little longer. Liv Morgan retains. As. She. Should.
Winner: Liv Morgan
"I don't even know Ronda took the belt out the suitcase. I feel like I love it more, it means more…"@YaOnlyLivvOnce has gone from serving wings watching Ronda Rousey to fighting her in a stadium fight ?
Chris: Welllllll no ifs ands or buts I think some type of interference will happen. Either a Sasha/Bayley return together as heels(one can dream) or Charlotte cost Ronda the match to continue their feud without a title and let Liv move on to other challengers. LIV MORGAN FOR THE WIN
Winner: Liv Morgan
Colby: I’m certainly not ready for Liv Morgan to lose the SmackDown Women’s Championship. However, what does Ronda Rousey do without a title and not in the chase? WWE would be wise to let Liv score a definitive victory to solidify her status as champion. Hopefully, that will be the case and Liv will move on to feud with Sonya Deville into the fall.
Winner: Liv Morgan
Other than the matches, the possibilities are endless where things can go and make both memorable. Could we see returns of Bayley or Charlotte Flair? May we get some interferences from the likes of Alexa, Shotzi, or even Rhea? The event takes place tonight at a start time of 8 PM EST.
Check back in with Diva Dirt for a live Discussion Post for SummerSlam during the show.
The OVW Women’s Champion and regular AEW talent Leila Grey is now engaged to her fiance and fellow pro wrestler Luke Kurtis. The proposal took place at a recent OVW show and the promotion shared the good news on its Twitter account. Grey has been women’s champion since April when she dethroned Freya the Slaya.
Grey’s popularity has been rising as of late as she has been appearing in various big promotions. Most recently she has spent a lot of time in AEW mainly working its Dark & Elevation shows. She has joined TBS Champion Jade Cargill as one of her Baddies thanks to Cargill’s publicist Stokely Hathaway. This placement was made once Red Velvet went out with an injury and to be alongside Kiera Hogan. Grey faced Cargill at Blood & Guts in June.
She was originally slated to take part in a trios match alongisde Hogan and Cargill on a recent episode of Dynamite but was removed from the match last minute making it a tag team bout. She was said to not be medically cleared but did have a match at OVW following.
Grey has also appeared in WWE in April where she faced Raquel Rodriguez in a match on SmackDown. She went by the name Cat Cardoza.
Diva Dirt sends its congratulations to Grey and her fiance Luke Kurtis on their engagement!
The SmackDown Women’s Champion Liv Morgan teamed up with her SummerSlam opponent Ronda Rousey on the go-home episode of SmackDown.
Forcing them to coexist, the SummerSlam opponents battled Natalya and Sonya Deville. Prior to the match, the four had a backstage segment which led to Rousey storming to the ring. She would go after Shotzi after her match with Aliyah before calling out Morgan so they could take care of business. For more on Shotzi and Aliyah you can click here.
Commentary continued to make Morgan seem like the underdog despite being the champion. Concerned about Morgan taking on Rousey at tomorrow’s event, it was imperative that Morgan show she could pick up this win for their team without Rousey’s help. Despite the champion having a good outing, it would still be Rousey to pick up the victory for them after causing Deville to tap out in an ankle lock.
The final moments of the match broke down as follows. Rousey went for an armbar on Deville but Natalya hit her from behind to stop the submission. Morgan takes care of Natalya with ObLIVion which leads to Deville locking in the ankle lock on Deville.
After the bout, Morgan clutches her title belt as the two women stare each other down briefly before raising each other’s arms to celebrate their victory.
Elsewhere on SmackDown, Maxxine Dupri unveils the 2022 Beachwear Collection. After the Maximum Male Models would show off the collection, Max Dupri would return after a week off. They are still looking for new recruits to titillate the juices of your guilty pleasures!
On this week’s NXT: Level Up, newcomer Sol Ruca took on Fallon Henley in a losing effort.
Check back in with Diva Dirt for more news and results from the women of SmackDown and a SummerSlam discussion post on Saturday, July 30.
Shotzi replaced Lacey Evans on this week’s SmackDown in a match against Aliyah.
For weeks now, Evans has been taking out Aliyah prior to their matches causing the bouts to never take place. Finally, she was set to get her match against Evans but instead, Shotzi appeared in the ring. Evans was not on the show and it was said by commentary that she was not medically cleared to compete. Also it was said that Shotzi “manipulated” her way into the match with Adam Pearce.
Shotzi was able to rally to achieve victory after hitting her Never Wake Up finisher.
After this match finished up, a segment backstage took place. SmackDown Women’s Champion Liv Morgan and Ronda Rousey were taking photos for their moving graphics for SummerSlam. They were interrupted by Natalya and Sonya Deville. Natalya still taking credit for Morgan’s victory at Money in the Bank while Deville said that Rousey attacked her last week only after she was defeated by Raquel Rodriguez.
With Shotzi still left in the ring from her victory, she grabbed a mic but was interrupted by Rousey who stormed off from the backstage segment. She would take down Shotzi to grab the mic and taunt the crowd.
WWE posted on their social media after the match a video of Shotzi putting the women’s roster on notice saying her win tonight was to show them all exactly what she is capable of. More specifically she called out Rousey saying she was at the top of her list.
