BY SACNILK

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...

BY SACNILK

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...

BY SACNILK

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...

BY SACNILK

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...

BY SACNILK

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...

BY SACNILK

Here are the full results for this Friday's SmackDown which is scheduled to air live on April 12, 2024, at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, MI. ## Friday Night SmackDown currently airs live every Friday on Fox from 8:00 ET–10:00 PM ET in the United States. WWE SmackDown starts live at 1 am in the UK on BT Sport 1 on Saturday mornings. ## WWE SmackDown Time In Australia: It airs live on at 10 am (AEST) on Fox8 ## WWE SmackDown Time In Canada: It airs live every Friday at 8 Am on Sportsnet 360 ## WWE SmackDown Time In South Africa: The show also airs live on Supersport in South Africa on Saturday at 02:00 am CAT ## SmackDown Time In Italy: In Italy, SmackDown airs on DMAX at 2:00 pm with the international version of one-hour shows airing on Cielo in Italian ## SmackDown airs live on Sony Ten 1 HD and Sony Ten 1 in India at 6:30 am. While SmackDown airs live on Fox Sports in Mexico and across Central and South America since 2014. ## WWE Friday Night SmackDown, April 12, 2024 Play-By-Play Results ## We kick things off with the champion Cody Rhodes. Cody Rhodes stands tall in the ring after defeating Roman Reigns at WrestleMania. He acknowledges the crowd in Detroit and opens the floor for discussion.## Recalling a recent interruption by The Rock on Raw, Cody reflects on the tense atmosphere and the awkward exchange of gifts. He assures the audience of his unwavering presence in WWE, ready for future challenges.## Looking ahead, Cody sets his sights on Backlash, the upcoming international pay-per-view in Lyon, France. He reveals a list of six potential opponents, including established names like AJ Styles, Bobby Lashley, and Kevin Owens. A friendly rivalry with Owens is acknowledged, with both wrestlers confident in their abilities.## With the championship secured, Cody transitions from the hunter to the hunted. He warns potential challengers of the risks associated with aiming for the top. He introduces himself to the SmackDown roster, reminding them of his journey from desirable to undeniable, and now, the Undisputed WWE Champion.## The segment concludes with glimpses backstage. We see various superstars reacting to Cody's victory, including a determined Paul Heyman alongside Jimmy and Solo Uso. Santos Escobar denies involvement in the disappearance of Dragon Lee. ## Qualifying Match: Bobby Lashley vs LA Knight vs Santos Escobar ## The action starts fast and furious with Lashley and Knight teaming up to overpower Escobar. However, the alliance crumbles quickly as Lashley throws Knight out of the ring. Knight responds with a daring suicide dive, taking out both opponents. The match continues with a flurry of counters and close calls. Knight attempts a superplex on Escobar, but Lashley intervenes with a powerbomb that takes down all three competitors. Knight nearly steals the win with a roll-up on Escobar, but the crafty luchador kicks out. The tide turns when Legado del Fantasma (Angel and Humberto) interfere, attacking Knight from behind. They unleash their signature Cerberus Bomb, but Knight remains focused on eliminating Lashley. The chaos escalates as The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) enter the fray to neutralize Legado del Fantasma. B-Fab joins the brawl, momentarily stopping Elektra Lopez from interfering. Back in the ring, Santos attempts a roll-up on a weakened Lashley, but the All Mighty responds with a devastating leaping flatliner. As Lashley prepares for a Spear, Escobar dodges the maneuver, causing Lashley to collide with the ring post. LA Knight with his signature BFT maneuver, pinning Santos Escobar for the three count. ## WINNER: LA Knight ## In an interview with Kayla Braxton, Rey Mysterio reflects on Santos Escobar's loss, suggesting it's a case of karma. He remains focused on his upcoming match against Kevin Owens and AJ Styles, while expressing his ambition for another WWE Championship run.## Meanwhile, The Bloodline arrives at the ring. Paul Heyman acknowledges Roman Reigns' loss at WrestleMania, emphasizing accountability. He dissects the events, suggesting distractions led to Roman's defeat.## Solo Sikoa interrupts, questioning the meaning of winning and losing, and the consequences that follow. A tense exchange ensues between Solo and Jimmy Uso, culminating in a surprising attack.## A hooded figure, revealed to be Tama Tonga, assaults Jimmy Uso from behind. Solo joins the attack, delivering a Samoan Spike on his own brother. The brutality continues as Solo destroys Paul Heyman's phone and Tama introduces a chair into the ring.## Solo delivers a running hip strike to Jimmy Uso while proclaiming his love. The segment ends with Tama, Solo, and Paul exiting the ring, leaving a battered and confused Jimmy Uso behind. ## Cameron Grimes vs Bron Breakker ## The match starts with Breakker taking down Grimes with a series of waist lock takedowns. Grimes attempts a side head lock but Breakker overpowers him.## Grimes fights back, landing on his feet after a belly-to-back suplex. However, Breakker uses the ropes to avoid an O'Connor Roll. Bron then takes control with a clothesline followed by a series of corner blows.## An Irish whip by Breakker is countered by Grimes with a boot. Grimes lands a superkick but Breakker catches him with a powerful slam before delivering a final spear for the pinfall victory. ## WINNER: Bron Breakker ## AJ Styles on a mission for retribution. He declares his upcoming match not as a regular competition, but a platform for vengeance against LA Knight. Styles sees Rey Mysterio and Kevin Owens as mere obstacles in his path of destruction. He vows to demolish everything in his pursuit and warns Knight that tonight's brutality is a mere preview of what awaits him next week. ## Meanwhile, Bayley celebrates her recent championship victory. She acknowledges the uniqueness of this achievement, highlighting the exceptional talent within the women's division. Expressing gratitude to the fans for their support throughout her eleven-year career, Bayley announces a brand new opportunity.## However, Tiffany Stratton disrupts the moment, demanding a shot at the title. She misinterprets Bayley's offer as an open challenge and inserts herself into the situation. Bayley clarifies that the challenge is intended for Naomi, who recently returned at the Royal Rumble.## Naomi enters the ring, shutting down Tiffany's taunts. She asserts her hard-earned success in WWE and refuses to back down. Naomi declares her intent to challenge Tiffany immediately, setting the stage for an impromptu match.## Later, Kayla Braxton seeks updates on Jimmy Uso's condition outside the trainer's room. Paul Heyman emerges, but before he can provide any information, Tama Tonga and Solo Sikoa approach him with a cryptic message delivered "by order of the Tribal Chief." The segment ends with a confused Paul demanding clarification. ## Tiffany Stratton vs Naomi ## The match between Naomi and Tiffany Stratton begins with Naomi taking control. She lands a dropkick and a Tiger Feint bulldog for a near fall. Naomi applies pressure with a wrist lock and a snap mare, followed by a kick to the chest. She continues her offensive attack with another dropkick, nearly pinning Tiffany.## Tiffany attempts a comeback with a reverse chin lock and a kick, but Naomi fights back with punches and a knee strike for another near fall. Naomi maintains the upper hand until Tiffany executes a drop toe hold into the ropes, followed by a running hip attack.## After a commercial break, Naomi regains momentum with a jawbreaker and a back elbow. Tiffany counters by placing Naomi on the turnbuckles, but Naomi responds with a kick and a crossbody press. She lands a roundhouse kick and a hesitation dropkick into the corner, followed by a series of kicks that sends Tiffany into the bottom turnbuckle. Naomi goes for a split-legged splash but only manages a near fall.## Tiffany rallies with a back elbow as Naomi attempts a waist lock. She escapes an O'Connor Roll by holding onto the ropes and delivers a double stomp for another near fall. Tiffany attempts an Alabama Slam but misses the moonsault variation. Naomi with a double leg takedown and a jackknife cover to secure the pinfall victory. ## WINNER: Naomi ## Austin Theory and Grayson Waller engage in a self-congratulatory exchange. Waller highlights his Wrestlemania debut victory and championship win, while Theory boasts about his past US Championship and current tag team title reign with Waller. They declare themselves the greatest undefeated tag team champions ever.## Meanwhile, Nick Aldis, Pete Dunne, Tyler Bate, Angelo Dawkins, and Montez Ford observe the champions on a monitor. Aldis announces their opponents will be revealed next week.## Following a commercial break, Logan Paul sends a video message. He revels in his victory at Wrestlemania, mocking Kevin Owens and claiming the social media era has arrived – the "Logan Paul Levesque Era."## On the SmackDown roster, Chelsea and Piper express frustration to Nick Aldis about missing Wrestlemania and their draft to SmackDown. Aldis assures them he will find them suitable opponents. ## Chelsea Green and Piper Niven vs Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill ## The action begins with Bianca Belair and Chelsea Green. Bianca quickly overpowers Green with a spinebuster and tags in Piper Niven. However, Niven disrespects Bianca's strategy and demands to face Jade Cargill. Bianca attempts to tag in Cargill, but Niven pulls her hair, forcing Bianca to evade with a handspring.## Niven takes control, sending Bianca to the mat with a cannonball. She misses a Vader Bomb, allowing Green to tag back in. Jade capitalizes on the opportunity, tagging herself in and delivering a devastating spinebuster and a back heel kick. With a dominant Jaded maneuver, Cargill secures the pinfall victory for Toxic Attraction. ## WINNERS: Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill ## Kevin Owens addresses Byron Saxton's inquiry about his upcoming match. He takes a humorous detour, requesting to utilize the "cool camera shots" before focusing on the importance of championship titles. Owens declares his desire for the WWE Title, acknowledging Rey Mysterio and AJ Styles as obstacles he must overcome. He taunts Styles, hoping he suffers from PTSD after LA Knight's home invasion.## Owens references his son and Rey's son, acknowledging their height but emphasizing his son's intelligence compared to Dominik Mysterio. He dismisses Rey but criticizes Dominik's actions, vowing to eliminate both men as they stand in his way. ## Qualifying Match: Kevin Owens vs AJ Styles vs Rey Mysterio## The action starts fast and furious with strikes exchanged between all three competitors. Rey Mysterio attempts a headscissors on AJ Styles, but Kevin Owens capitalizes with a clothesline, sending Styles flying out of the ring.## Both Owens and Mysterio target Styles on the outside with a leg sweep and a seated splash, respectively. After a commercial break, Owens takes control with forearms, but Styles fights back with punches, kicks, and an enzuigiri that sends Owens over the top rope.## Mysterio joins the fray with kicks, but Owens counters with a waist lock. AJ breaks free with a back elbow and attempts a toss onto Owens, but Mysterio nails him with a tornado DDT. A DDT to Styles and a near fall follow for Mysterio.## AJ regains momentum, blocking a 619 attempt and hoisting Mysterio for a powerful Ushigoroshi. A near fall again frustrates Styles. He targets Owens with punches before placing him on the turnbuckles. Owens fights back with punches, but Mysterio intervenes with a headscissors that sends Styles crashing to the floor.## The high-flying maneuvers continue as Mysterio attempts a Frankensteiner on Owens, but Owens counters with a super fisherman's buster for another near fall. The action intensifies with a flurry of kicks, elbows, and near misses.## Just as AJ sets up for a Styles Clash on Owens, Mysterio disrupts the move with a springboard crossbody. A desperate AJ throws an Irish whip, but Mysterio counters with an elbow.## Owens capitalizes on the chaos, delivering a German suplex to both AJ and Rey. He throws Rey with a monkey flip, but Mysterio retaliates with a headscissors to AJ. Finally, Rey connects with his signature 619 on Styles.## Owens attempts a Stunner on Mysterio on the apron but misses. He then turns his attention to Styles, who counters a Swanton Bomb attempt with raised knees.## AJ climbs the turnbuckles, but Mysterio grabs his leg, attempting a rana. Styles blocks it and executes a devastating Super Styles Clash onto Owens. With Rey Mysterio neutralized, AJ Styles pins him for the pinfall victory. ## WINNER: AJ Styles ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

A new poster for the upcoming WWE Backlash event in France, featuring Cody Rhodes has been unveiled. ## Backlash takes place on Saturday, May 4th, 2024, at the LDLC Arena in Lyon-Decines, France. The official poster confirms Cody Rhodes' presence at the event. With him recently winning the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, speculation is high that he'll be defending the title in a major match. ## No official matches have been announced yet. However, considering the presence of both the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion and the Women's World Champion (Rhea Ripley), it's safe to expect championship matches to headline the event. ## With the event still over a month away, expect more information about matches, card details, and participating superstars to be revealed in the coming weeks. Keep an eye on official WWE channels and reputable wrestling news sources for updates. The first official poster also features other prominent names like Bianca Belair, Becky Lynch, and Seth Rollins and many more. Their presence suggests they might be involved in significant matches as well. ## There have been rumors of a potential rematch between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes, but this hasn't been confirmed. ## ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

The excitement for WWE SummerSlam is building as a new poster featuring a stacked lineup of champions and contenders has been unveiled.## This year's edition of the "Biggest Party of the Summer" takes place on Saturday, August 3rd, at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio, hometown of United States Champion Logan Paul, who himself made the announcement earlier.## The electrifying poster features a diverse group of top stars vying for dominance. Leading the charge is the newly crowned Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, Cody Rhodes. He's joined by the fighting spirit of United States Champion Logan Paul, the reigning Women's World Champion Rhea Ripley, the powerhouse Bianca Belair, the confident newcomer Jade Cargill, and the ever-opportunistic Raw Tag Team Champion The Miz.## This impressive roster hints at potential dream matches and showdowns that will have fans at the edge of their seats.## Last year's SummerSlam left a lasting impression with Roman Reigns' controversial victory over Jey Uso in a Tribal Combat match. The event also saw unforgettable moments like Cody Rhodes' triumph over Brock Lesnar and IYO SKY's successful Money in the Bank cash-in to become Women's Champion.## With the new poster raising anticipation, speculation runs wild about what captivating matchups SummerSlam 2024 will deliver. ## ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

WrestleMania 40 may be over, but its impact is far from over. A new era dawns for WWE's flagship shows, Raw and SmackDown, with a focus on bringing the fans closer to the action. ## According to PWInsider.com, WWE is implementing a significant change in production for both Raw and SmackDown. Gone are the elaborate set designs and massive screens that dominated the shows for years. Instead, a simpler, more streamlined approach will prioritize seating capacity, allowing for more fans to witness the live spectacle.## This decision signifies a shift in the "Endeavor era" of WWE, named after the company's parent organization. The focus seems to be on maximizing the in-arena experience for fans, potentially leading to a more electric atmosphere.## The new setup debuted on the April 8th episode of Raw after WrestleMania, featuring a noticeably smaller set and screens at the Wells Fargo Center. This aligns with the streamlined design used at WrestleMania 40, which apparently proved to be a success.## While there may be exceptions for specific events, the smaller production appears to be the new norm for Raw and SmackDown. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

WWE fans eager to see the return of Roman Reigns after his WrestleMania loss to Cody Rhodes might have a clue, but with a caveat. ## The official WWE website lists upcoming events and the superstars expected to appear. Currently, the next show featuring Roman Reigns is SmackDown on August 2nd, the night before SummerSlam.## However, these listings are subject to change, and Reigns' appearance isn't guaranteed. Additionally, the website excludes events in Saudi Arabia, so a potential appearance at King & Queen of the Ring on May 25th wouldn't be reflected there.## Reigns was noticeably absent from the post-WrestleMania Raw, which saw appearances by The Rock, John Cena, and the new champion, Cody Rhodes. During the opening segment, The Rock hinted at a future match with Rhodes upon his return.## So, will the WWE Universe see the "Tribal Chief" before SummerSlam? Only time and perhaps a future announcement from WWE will tell. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Bron Breakker's time in NXT has definitively come to an end, as the former two-time NXT Champion bid farewell to the brand during a post-show segment following tonight's NXT episode. ## The news comes after Breakker and his tag team partner Baron Corbin, known as the Wolf Dogs, lost their NXT Tag Team Championship title to the newly formed duo of Nathan Frazer and Axiom.## While Breakker had technically "signed" with SmackDown weeks ago, making a few appearances on the blue brand, he remained a mainstay in NXT alongside Corbin. However, tonight's emotional send-off confirmed his official transition to the main roster. ## With tears in his eyes, Breakker expressed his gratitude to the NXT fans, personnel, and his tag team partner. Corbin then chimed in, revealing Breakker's full-time move to SmackDown.## This leaves Baron Corbin's future uncertain. Fans will have to wait for the upcoming 2024 WWE Draft to see if he remains in NXT or joins Breakker on SmackDown. ## In a shocking turn of events, the NXT Tag Team Championship reign of Frazer and Axiom was short-lived. As they celebrated their victory, they were ambushed by the returning Authors of Pain (Akam and Rezar), flanked by the menacing presence of Karrion Kross, Scarlett, and Paul Ellering – collectively known as the ominous Final Testament. ## Bron and Corbin came out after the show went off and Bron thanked everyone as Corbin said he is off to Smackdown @bronbreakkerwwe @BaronCorbinWWE #wwenxt pic.twitter.com/jRVofC8oDL— rich schellhase (@richschellhase) April 10, 2024 ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Former WWE co-CEO Stephanie McMahon shocked fans with a surprise appearance at WrestleMania 40, but questions remain about her official status with the company.## According to PWInsider, McMahon's return wasn't a formal comeback as an employee or executive. It appears her role was twofold: to surprise fans and express personal support for the "Paul Levesque era" of WWE, referencing her husband's prominent position as Chief Content Officer.## This wasn't her only WrestleMania weekend appearance. McMahon joined Levesque at the Hall of Fame ceremony, further fueling speculation about her potential return. While Levesque remained tight-lipped on the matter, he did express his delight at having her "back home" in WWE.## McMahon's return comes after a tumultuous period for the company. She stepped down alongside her father Vince McMahon in January 2023 when he retook control as executive chairman. Shortly after, WWE merged with UFC to form TKO, and Vince McMahon resigned amidst controversy surrounding the Janel Grant lawsuit. Stephanie has remained silent on the lawsuit and allegations.## Despite the uncertainties, WWE CEO Nick Khan expressed his desire for Stephanie's return in a March 2023 interview. Her backstage visit at Survivor Series last November also hinted at a potential reemergence. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...