J

Jitu Jangir

9710 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

Sheamus Set For WWE Raw Return On April 15th
787 days ago
WWE News

Sheamus Set For WWE Raw Return On April 15th

Sheamus, the beloved WWE veteran, is set to make his grand return to the ring after an eight-month hiatus. A short video package aired during this week's SmackDown (April 12th), confirming his appearance on the upcoming episode of Raw on April 15th. ## Sheamus' last televised match was back in August 2023 against Edge. During his absence, significant changes have impacted his former faction, The Brawling Brutes. ## Pete Dunne, formerly known as Butch, has shed his new identity and rejoined his tag team partner Tyler Bate. Meanwhile, Ridge Holland has been a whirlwind of activity. ## After a brief retirement announcement, he returned with a vengeance, attacking Joe Gacy at NXT Stand & Deliver. Most recently, Holland was involved in a backstage altercation with Joaquin Wilde, leading to a scheduled match between the two on the upcoming edition of NXT (April 16th). ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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The Bloodline Gets A New Enforcer As Tama Tonga Makes Shocking Debut On SmackDown
787 days ago
WWE News

The Bloodline Gets A New Enforcer As Tama Tonga Makes Shocking Debut On SmackDown

The fallout from WrestleMania 40 continued to shake up SmackDown this week, with a major change to the landscape of The Bloodline.## Solo Sikoa, Jimmy Uso, and Paul Heyman kicked off the night with an in-ring segment addressing their loss and the subsequent eviction from their locker room by the new champion, Cody Rhodes. Heyman attempted to maintain order, reminding Sikoa that "wins and losses matter" and regaining championship gold was the key to reclaiming their space.## However, tensions flared as Sikoa questioned the consequences for losing, particularly after Jimmy Uso's defeat at the hands of Jey Uso at WrestleMania. Suddenly, a hooded figure attacked Jimmy Uso, and the identity was soon revealed to be Tama Tonga, son of Haku and a former NJPW star.## This shocking debut was followed by a vicious assault on Jimmy Uso by both Sikoa and Tonga, leaving him laid out despite Heyman's protests against the violence. Notably, Tonga, while not an Anoa'i family member by blood, has been acknowledged as honorary family by The Rock and Roman Reigns in the past.## The segment concluded with Sikoa asserting his dominance within the group. He smacked Heyman's phone out of his hand and stomped on it, sending a clear message that decision-making within The Bloodline may have shifted.## The future of The Bloodline and its impact on SmackDown remain to be seen, but one thing is certain: the WWE Universe can expect fireworks in the weeks to come. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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Piper Niven Makes Surprise Return From Injury On 4/12/24 SmackDown
787 days ago
SmackDown

Piper Niven Makes Surprise Return From Injury On 4/12/24 SmackDown

While the WWE Universe focused on the debut of Tama Tonga as the newest member of The Bloodline on this week's SmackDown (April 12th), another significant event flew under the radar.## Piper Niven made her long-awaited return to the ring after recovering from a broken hand.## Niven's last match was on February 5th on WWE Main Event. Tonight, she teamed up with Chelsea Green to take on the formidable duo of Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill. While Cargill and Belair secured the victory, Niven's return to the ring marked a positive step in her recovery.## This was Cargill's fourth WWE match, and she continued her dominant streak alongside Belair. Just days prior, Cargill defeated Green in a singles match on Raw.## JUST. LIKE. THAT. @Jade_Cargill and @BiancaBelairWWE are not to be messed with 😤#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/rbs9TYZyE1— WWE (@WWE) April 13, 2024 ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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Bayley's Title Defense Set For Next Week's SmackDown, Naomi Earns Championship Opportunity
787 days ago
WWE News

Bayley's Title Defense Set For Next Week's SmackDown, Naomi Earns Championship Opportunity

Bayley's reign as the new WWE Women's Champion got underway on this week's episode of SmackDown (April 12th) but not without a twist. Returning to the blue brand after her WrestleMania 40 victory over IYO SKY, Bayley was interrupted by Tiffany Stratton, who mistook Bayley's celebration for an open challenge.## Clearing the air, Bayley revealed she had a specific challenger in mind and summoned Naomi to the ring. This set the stage for an impromptu match between Stratton and Naomi to determine Bayley's first title challenger. Naomi emerged victorious, securing her championship opportunity for next week's SmackDown (April 19th).## While the SmackDown Women's Championship picture heats up, the main event scene also saw significant developments. Two Triple Threat matches took place to determine a future challenger for the Undisputed WWE Champion, Cody Rhodes. LA Knight took down Bobby Lashley and Santos Escobar in the first match, while AJ Styles emerged victorious from his WrestleMania 40 rematch against Kevin Owens and Rey Mysterio. ## Next week on SmackDown, Knight and Styles will collide in a rematch with a massive prize on the line. The winner will go on to challenge Cody Rhodes at Backlash in France on May 4th, marking Rhodes' first title defense since his WrestleMania win over Roman Reigns. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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Cody Rhodes All Set To Defend WWE Championship At Backlash; Opponent Revealed
787 days ago
WWE News

Cody Rhodes All Set To Defend WWE Championship At Backlash; Opponent Revealed

This past Friday night's episode of SmackDown was all about title contenders. Cody Rhodes, the newly crowned Undisputed WWE Champion after his victory over Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40, made his presence felt, setting his sights on the blue brand for his first title defense. ## SmackDown didn't waste any time in determining his challenger for the upcoming Backlash pay-per-view in France on May 4th. Two action-packed Triple Threat matches took center stage. In the first, LA Knight emerged victorious over powerhouses Bobby Lashley and Santos Escobar. The second Triple Threat saw a WrestleMania 40 rematch as AJ Styles defeated Kevin Owens and Rey Mysterio.## With both men earning their stripes, the stage is set for a rematch of epic proportions. Next week on SmackDown, LA Knight and AJ Styles will clash once again. The winner of this encounter will have the prestigious honor of challenging Cody Rhodes at Backlash, marking Rhodes' first title defense since his historic WrestleMania win.## The episode also saw another championship clash brewing. Bayley, fresh off her WrestleMania victory, will defend her title next week on SmackDown. Naomi secured the coveted challenger's spot after defeating Tiffany Stratton.## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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Chris Jericho Files For Trademarks, Sparking New AEW Faction Rumors
788 days ago
AEW News

Chris Jericho Files For Trademarks, Sparking New AEW Faction Rumors

Chris Jericho, the veteran wrestler currently performing for All Elite Wrestling (AEW), has fueled speculation about a potential new faction with recent trademark filings. ## On April 10th, Jericho submitted applications to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for three phrases: "The Rarified Air of Jericho," "The Educator," and "The Learning Tree." The filings indicate Jericho's intention to use these trademarks for wrestling-related entertainment, including contests, exhibitions, and appearances.## The detailed description accompanying the filings covers a wide range of entertainment services, including live and televised appearances, wrestling news and information, and online interviews. Notably, some fans believe "The Learning Tree" might be the name of a new faction within AEW.## Jericho's latest in-ring appearance occurred on the same day as the trademark filings, where he teamed with Hook and Katsuyori Shibata in a losing effort on AEW Dynamite. This episode also garnered attention for Will Ospreay's comments directed at WWE's Triple H during a live promo.## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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The Rock Rattles PG Era: Wrestlers Get Edgier After Dwayne Johnson's Mic Drop
788 days ago
WWE News

The Rock Rattles PG Era: Wrestlers Get Edgier After Dwayne Johnson's Mic Drop

The Rock's recent stint on WWE has caused a shift in on-screen language policies, particularly for top wrestlers.## Dave Meltzer, wrestling journalist, reports in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that the previously enforced PG-rated language restrictions seem to be loosening up. This change appears to be at least partly due to The Rock's freedom to speak his mind. ## Meltzer notes, "Rock says what he wants when he wants," and this leniency seems to be extending to other top stars. Examples include Paul Heyman's (bleeped-out) profanity during his Hall of Fame speech and Cody Rhodes and C.M. Punk using language that wouldn't have been tolerated just a few months ago.## Interestingly, this coincides with a reported decline in viewership among older demographics and a rise in younger viewers. This suggests a potential return to the "Attitude Era" style of programming, known for its edgier content, might be a strategic move to capture a younger audience.## However, WWE seems to be taking a cautious approach. While there's a push for edgier content, there's also a concern about alienating sponsors with excessive profanity. It appears they're aiming for a balance.## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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Report: There Is No Planned Date For The Rock To Return For A Match
788 days ago
WWE News

Report: There Is No Planned Date For The Rock To Return For A Match

The Rock's WWE departure is confirmed, following his "go away for a little while" comment on the Raw after WrestleMania. He did assure fans he'd return, specifically for a showdown with Cody Rhodes.## Earlier reports suggested a potential WrestleMania 41 clash (in 2025) between The Rock and Rhodes. Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter now sheds more light on The Rock's plans.## Meltzer indicates this is a long-term absence, with no confirmed return date for a match, though WrestleMania next year is a possibility. The Rock initially envisioned a match with Roman Reigns, but due to recent events, a singles match with Rhodes is considered the bigger draw.## Current plans suggest The Rock might work a match later in 2024, but it's not guaranteed. His ideal scenario is a main event clash with Rhodes at next year's WrestleMania, and The Rock often gets what he wants. This could translate to a one-year title reign for Rhodes, though not a certainty as of yet.## Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's busy film schedule likely factors into his WWE hiatus. He has two movies in post-production and a third slated for 2025 release. These include the action-comedy "Red One" (with Chris Evans) in November 2024, "Moana 2" (reprising his role as Maui) also in November 2024, and a live-action "Moana" movie in 2025. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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Scrapped Plans For Stone Cold Steve Austin's Involvement In The Main Event Of WrestleMania 40 Revealed
788 days ago
WWE News

Scrapped Plans For Stone Cold Steve Austin's Involvement In The Main Event Of WrestleMania 40 Revealed

Plans for Stone Cold Steve Austin's involvement in the main event of WrestleMania 40 have been revealed, along with the reason for his absence.## At WrestleMania 40, Cody Rhodes dethroned Roman Reigns to become the new Undisputed Universal Champion, ending Reigns' historic 1316-day reign. The match featured surprise appearances by WWE legends who helped Rhodes overcome The Bloodline.## John Cena returned to put Solo Sikoa out of action, but was later taken down by The Rock. Just as The Rock appeared poised to interfere further, The Undertaker made a shocking entrance, chokeslamming The Rock and effectively removing him from the equation.## The Undertaker's return was particularly unexpected as WWE had teased appearances by Cena and Stone Cold Steve Austin, who was ultimately absent. According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE was unable to reach a financial agreement with Austin for his WrestleMania 40 appearance.## Meltzer reported that The Undertaker took Austin's originally planned spot in the main event. This explains the surprise nature of The Deadman's return, as opposed to the pre-event hype surrounding Cena and Austin. The Rock's on-screen interaction with Cody Rhodes on Raw this week suggests he might be taking a break from WWE. During the segment, The Rock alluded to stepping away for "a little while." ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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Kevin Owens Eyes WrestleMania Feuds, Hints At Possible Retirement
788 days ago
WWE News

Kevin Owens Eyes WrestleMania Feuds, Hints At Possible Retirement

Kevin Owens, a staple in WWE for a decade and a veteran wrestler for 24 years, has spoken about his remaining goals in the company.## In a recent interview with Busted Open Radio, Owens revealed his desire to face Finn Balor at WrestleMania, acknowledging his uncertain number of remaining appearances on the grandest stage. Another dream match for Owens? A singles encounter with Rey Mysterio.## "I've never had a singles match against Rey Mysterio," Owens said. "If I have another WrestleMania in me, I'd love to wrestle Finn Balor there. But as far as just goals, I think I've had it so good. I really can't ask for more."## Owens' WWE journey began in December 2014 at NXT TakeOver: R Evolution, where he debuted with a win over CJ Parker (Juice Robinson) before attacking Sami Zayn in a shocking heel turn. Two months later, Owens dethroned Zayn to capture the NXT Championship at NXT TakeOver: Rival.## The Canadian grappler has since cemented his legacy as a WWE Grand Slam Champion, holding the Undisputed WWE Championship, the United States Championship, the Intercontinental Championship, and the Tag Team Championships. ## At WrestleMania 40, Owens' quest for another title fell short, as he and Randy Orton couldn't defeat Logan Paul for the United States Championship. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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Dustin Rhodes Responds To The Undertaker's Hall of Fame Push
788 days ago
WWE News

Dustin Rhodes Responds To The Undertaker's Hall of Fame Push

The legendary Undertaker recently advocated for Dustin Rhodes' induction into the WWE Hall of Fame on his podcast, Six Feet Under. AEW's "Natural" has finally responded to the Deadman's comments. ## The Undertaker expressed his belief that Rhodes' career merits a spot in the Hall of Fame, predicting it would happen "down the road." ## During an interview on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Rhodes acknowledged The Undertaker's endorsement, fondly recalling his collaborations with Mark Calaway (Undertaker's real name). He emphasized the importance of good worker chemistry, praising the in-ring ability of wrestlers during their era.## Rhodes went on to discuss the different eras of professional wrestling, highlighting the importance of learning from the past. He stressed the value of mastering traditional wrestling fundamentals before incorporating modern elements.## Concluding the interview, Rhodes emphasized the enduring power of storytelling in wrestling. He believes fans crave emotional connection, which is what truly keeps them engaged. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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Jim Ross Shares Brief Exchange With Cody Rhodes After Historic WrestleMania Win
788 days ago
WWE News

Jim Ross Shares Brief Exchange With Cody Rhodes After Historic WrestleMania Win

Following Cody Rhodes' emotional victory over Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40, capturing the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, wrestling legend Jim Ross revealed a short but significant conversation with the new champion. ## On the grandest stage of them all, Rhodes culminated his pursuit of the WWE Title, which began upon his return to the company in April 2022. This win marked a defining moment in his career, bringing an end to Reigns' historic 1316-day reign as champion. ## As a veteran commentator and WWE Hall of Famer, Jim Ross took the opportunity to congratulate Rhodes on his achievement. Appearing on his podcast, Grilling JR, Ross disclosed sending a text message to Rhodes, expressing his pride and urging him to embrace the leadership role that WWE needs.## Ross recounted Rhodes' response, a simple yet powerful statement: "I did it, cowboy." This phrase held a deeper meaning, referencing the nickname Rhodes often used for Ross during their time working together.## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

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