BY SACNILK

Former SmackDown play-by-play announcer Kevin Patrick has reportedly parted ways with WWE, according to Mike Johnson of PWInsider. This follows his recent removal from the lead commentator position on the blue brand just last week. ## Patrick's WWE journey began in March 2021, where he donned various hats, including hosting Raw Talk and the "After The Bell" podcast alongside Corey Graves (which concluded at the end of 2023). ## However, his most prominent role came in October 2022 when he stepped up as the lead announcer for Raw. This position shifted in August 2023 as part of a larger talent swap, placing Patrick and Graves on SmackDown alongside Michael Cole. Cole eventually transitioned to calling both Raw and SmackDown until his recent exit from the latter earlier this month. ## While the official reason for Patrick's departure remains unclear, it appears his time calling the action for WWE has come to an end. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Brock Lesnar, the WWE's dominant "Beast Incarnate," has found himself embroiled in a legal firestorm alongside former CEO Vince McMahon, facing disturbing allegations of sexual misconduct and exploitation.## While Lesnar's absence from WWE programming since SummerSlam has been raising eyebrows, a recent lawsuit filed by former employee Janel Grant throws his future into serious doubt. Grant accuses McMahon of a range of abuses, including sharing explicit content of her with various WWE personnel without consent, pressuring her into sexual encounters, and acting as a facilitator for similar demands from other stars.## Among these alleged encounters, the lawsuit specifically points to Brock Lesnar. According to The Wall Street Journal, McMahon is accused of directing Grant in July 2021 to create personalized sexual content for a "UFC fighter and WWE talent," heavily implied to be Lesnar. McMahon reportedly expressed approval of the material to Grant, further messaging her in August after securing Lesnar's renewed contract with the phrase "that part of the deal was f—ing U."## The claims continue with disturbing detail, alleging that McMahon provided Grant's personal contact information to Lesnar in December 2021. Lesnar is then accused of demanding a video of Grant urinating, subsequently calling her derogatory names. Additional claims mention Lesnar's alleged desire for a "play date" that was ultimately thwarted by travel disruptions. ## These unprecedented accusations against both McMahon and Lesnar cast a dark shadow over their respective careers and raise serious questions about WWE's internal culture. While neither party has publicly commented on the lawsuit, it's certain that both legal and reputational consequences are likely to unfold. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Bayley isn't resting on her laurels. Despite a decorated career, the hunger for unclaimed gold burns bright within her. And whispers circulating WWE suggest the company might have a grand stage waiting for her.## Bayley has officially thrown her hat (or rather, her signature headband) into the ring for the 2024 Women's Royal Rumble. Her sights? A coveted WrestleMania 40 main event slot. Notably, this would be the first time Bayley headlines the "Grandest Stage of Them All" in her illustrious tenure.## So far, only a select few have declared their Rumble intentions: the reigning Bianca Belair, the ever-fiery Becky Lynch, the powerful Nia Jax, and of course, the determined Bayley herself.## A recent Sports Illustrated report champions Bayley's undeniable claim to Royal Rumble victory. They suggest her path to WrestleMania 40 is paved with golden bricks. In their words, "Bayley is, hands down, the most deserving talent to snag that Rumble win and a prime WrestleMania spot. Her moment is nigh."## Bayley herself has echoed this sentiment, openly expressing her desire to clash with the dominant Rhea Ripley on the WrestleMania canvas. Whether she can manifest this dream into reality remains to be seen, but one thing's for sure: Bayley's eyes are firmly fixed on the prize, and the road to WrestleMania just got a whole lot hotter. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

With the Royal Rumble looming, anticipation is electric, especially for the star-studded Royal Rumble matches. But the current lineups, particularly the women's with just six confirmed entries, leave many slots tantalizingly open. ## Enter the buzzworthy possibilities: whispers of a former AEW champion's return and a fresh talent's hotly anticipated debut. One name fueling the fire? Jade Cargill, the ex-AEW star who, according to PWInsider Elite, may have crossed the divide to WWE.## While her Rumble participation remains unconfirmed, signs point to Cargill gracing Tampa Bay with her presence at the PPV. Her dedicated training at the Performance Center, prepping for her inevitable WWE bow, adds fuel to the Rumble speculation.## Will Cargill electrify the Rumble with a surprise entry? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: the anticipation is already reaching fever pitch. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

SmackDown commentary is getting a temporary reshuffle, with Kevin Patrick stepping down and veteran announcer Michael Cole filling in alongside Corey Graves. This sudden switch, effective for this week's Royal Rumble go-home episode, leaves fans wondering about the future of the commentary team.## PWInsider reports that the long-term plan remains unclear. Will this be a brief shake-up or a permanent shift? Will Kevin Patrick find a new role within WWE?## The decision to remove Patrick, reportedly made just last minute, surprised many. He was initially scheduled to be on SmackDown this week. While he's well-liked within WWE, some executives reportedly felt he wasn't the perfect fit for the lead announcer role.## So, tune in to SmackDown this week to see Cole and Graves in action, and keep your eyes peeled for further updates on the commentary team's future. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Cody Rhodes has set his sights on a singular goal – concluding his narrative and clinching the World Championship at WrestleMania 40. Unfortunately, recent developments cast doubt on the realization of this ambition. ## The uncertainty surrounding Cody Rhodes's WrestleMania status stems from widespread speculation regarding a potential return to the squared circle by none other than The Rock. This twist in the narrative could potentially alter Rhodes's assumed role as Roman Reigns's adversary at the grand spectacle.## Despite the swirling speculations, The American Nightmare remains resolute and undeterred, emphatically asserting his belief that he will headline WrestleMania 40 and ultimately bring his story to its conclusion. ## According to insights from Sports Illustrated, various sources with close ties to WWE's Head of Creative, Triple H, have intimated that Cody Rhodes is unlikely to be in the main event at this year's WrestleMania. These sources suggest that Rhodes will not have the opportunity to bring his narrative to a close at the highly anticipated event. ## Recent backstage discussions between Cody Rhodes and The Rock have only fueled further speculation about WrestleMania. The Rock's participation at WrestleMania 40, following revelations about his TKO position, remains uncertain. Only time will tell whether Rhodes will indeed miss the chance to conclude his story at WrestleMania 40 this year. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

WWE and Netflix recently announced that WWE Raw will be making its way to the streaming giant come January 2025. The monumental shift in the wrestling landscape has left fans and industry insiders alike buzzing with anticipation.## Nick Khan, WWE's President and Chief Revenue Officer, shed light on the potential implications of this move during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. Addressing the question of whether WWE Raw would remain on Monday nights, Khan emphasized that, at least for the time being, the plan is to maintain its traditional Monday slot. However, with over ten months until the Netflix deal kicks in, Khan acknowledged the need to navigate the changing television landscape.## Khan highlighted the formidable competition that Monday Night Raw faces on traditional television, ranging from Monday Night Football to an enhanced Disney package and other high-profile sporting events. Despite these challenges, he pointed out Raw's resilience by citing a noteworthy .6 rating in the 18 to 49 demographic, even when pitted against major football games.## Remaining optimistic about Raw's potential success, Khan expressed WWE's willingness to explore alternative scheduling options. He stated, "If we stay on Mondays, it'll work, if we move to a different day, we think it'll work too," indicating a flexible approach to ensure the continued success of the flagship program. ## An SEC filing disclosed that Netflix holds the option to extend the WWE Raw deal beyond the initial ten years or opt out after five years. This flexibility introduces an element of uncertainty to the long-term arrangement, allowing for potential renegotiations and adjustments based on the evolving dynamics of the streaming and entertainment industries. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson made waves with his recent return to WWE TV at Raw Day One, hinting at a potential clash with Universal Champion Roman Reigns. In a candid interview on ESPN First Take, The Rock shared his thoughts on the speculated WrestleMania showdown, underscoring his love for the business and the desire to contribute to its growth. ## Acknowledging the intricate nature of professional wrestling, The Rock expressed his interest in playing the long game. The allusion to a main event at WrestleMania against Roman Reigns ignited anticipation and excitement among fans, who eagerly await the possibility of witnessing these two iconic figures face off on the grandest stage of them all. ## In a subtle nod to Reigns' "Head of the Table" moniker, The Rock hinted at the prospect of sitting at that symbolic head, adding a layer of intrigue to the potential storyline. The excitement in The Rock's voice was palpable as he spoke about the opportunity to create something extraordinary and potentially host the greatest WrestleMania in history. ## The Rock's confidence in the match's impact and his deep respect for the history of WrestleMania resonated with fans, fueling speculation about the significance of a bout between these two generational talents. As the wrestling community eagerly awaits further developments, The Rock's dual announcement of joining the TKO Board of Directors emphasizes his continued influence inside and outside the ring. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

WWE is currently experiencing another shift in its commentary lineup, as confirmed by Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio. According to reports, Kevin Patrick, who had been part of the SmackDown commentary team alongside Corey Graves, is no longer in that role. The replacement for Patrick on the show has not been revealed as of now. ## The initial report, disclosed on Monday night by Aaron Varble, highlighted that SmackDown is set for a change with Kevin Patrick's departure, and no successor has been named yet. The reason provided for this change was stated as, 'It just wasn't working out.' ## Despite the news, WWE has not officially announced the details or implications for the future.## Previously, Patrick, Graves, and Michael Cole formed the new SmackDown commentary team after a reshuffling in August last year. The decision to pair Cole and Patrick was reportedly made with the intention of aiding Patrick's growth as a broadcaster.## In another recent development this month, Cole left the SmackDown team and is now exclusively calling Raw.## Kevin Patrick, also known as Kevin Egan, joined the WWE broadcast team in March 2021, assuming roles as a backstage correspondent, play-by-play commentator, and host of Raw Talk. Beyond his WWE responsibilities, he brings extensive experience as a soccer announcer.## It's noteworthy that Patrick co-hosted WWE After the Bell with Corey Graves until the conclusion of that podcast in November of last year.## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

WWE, a division of TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: TKO), and Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX) have jointly announced a groundbreaking long-term partnership, signifying a pivotal shift in programming. ## Raw, WWE's flagship weekly program, will make a historic move away from linear television for the first time in its 31-year history. ## Commencing in January 2025, Netflix will serve as the exclusive new platform for Raw in the U.S., Canada, U.K., and Latin America, with plans to expand its availability to additional countries and regions in due course. ## Moreover, as part of this comprehensive agreement, Netflix will be the go-to destination for all WWE shows and specials outside the U.S. This includes Raw, as well as WWE's other weekly programs, SmackDown and NXT. Furthermore, Netflix will become the exclusive platform for WWE's Premium Live Events, such as WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble. International audiences can also look forward to accessing WWE's acclaimed documentaries, original series, and upcoming projects on Netflix starting in 2025. ## Netflix to Become New Home of WWE Raw Beginning 2025## Long-Term Deal Brings Weekly Live Sports Entertainment to Netflix## STAMFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- WWE, part of TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: TKO), and Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX) today announced a long-term partnership that will bring WWE’s flagship weekly program – Raw – to the world’s leading entertainment service. This marks a major programming shift as Raw leaves linear television for the first time since its inception 31 years ago.## Beginning in January 2025, Netflix will be the exclusive new home of Raw in the U.S., Canada, U.K. and Latin America, among other territories, with additional countries and regions to be added over time. Likewise, as part of the agreement, Netflix will also become the home for all WWE shows and specials outside the U.S. as available, inclusive of Raw and WWE’s other weekly shows – SmackDown and NXT – as well as the company’s Premium Live Events, including WrestleMania, SummerSlam and Royal Rumble. WWE’s award-winning documentaries, original series and forthcoming projects will also be available on Netflix internationally beginning in 2025.## “This deal is transformative,” said Mark Shapiro, TKO President and COO. “It marries the can’t-miss WWE product with Netflix’s extraordinary global reach and locks in significant and predictable economics for many years. Our partnership fundamentally alters and strengthens the media landscape, dramatically expands the reach of WWE, and brings weekly live appointment viewing to Netflix.”## “We are excited to have WWE Raw, with its huge and passionate multigenerational fan base, on Netflix,” said Netflix Chief Content Officer, Bela Bajaria. “By combining our reach, recommendations, and fandom with WWE, we’ll be able to deliver more joy and value for their audiences and our members. Raw is the best of sports entertainment, blending great characters and storytelling with live action 52 weeks a year and we’re thrilled to be in this long-term partnership with WWE.”## “In its relatively short history, Netflix has engineered a phenomenal track record for storytelling,” said Nick Khan, WWE President. “We believe Netflix, as one of the world’s leading entertainment brands, is the ideal long-term home for Raw’s live, loyal, and ever-growing fan base."## With 1,600 episodes to date, Raw is the most iconic show in sports entertainment. Since its debut in 1993, Raw has delivered action, compelling drama and unmatched athleticism – 52 weeks a year. Blending the best of scripted content with unpredictable live entertainment, the three-hour show has helped launch the careers of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Triple H, John Cena, Roman Reigns, Bianca Belair and Charlotte Flair.## The show is currently the No. 1 show on USA Network, where it brings in 17.5 million unique viewers over the course of the year. One of television’s best performing shows in the 18-49 advertising demographic, Raw trends on X 52 weeks a year while each new episode is airing. On social media, WWE has more than one billion followers across its platforms. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Drew McIntyre and Damian Priest headlined the main event on tonight's episode of Monday Night Raw. The culmination of their match saw R-Truth intervening, causing chaos that ultimately paved the way for Drew to deliver a decisive Claymore to Priest, securing the three-count. ## Below check out the full recap of the match. ## They grappled, and Drew initiated a side headlock. Jockeying for position ensued, but Drew maintained control with another side headlock. Executing a shoulder tackle, Drew sent Priest into the ropes, who retaliated with a shoulder tackle of his own. The back-and-forth continued, with Priest landing punches in the corner after an Irish whip. Drew countered with a clothesline out of the corner, followed by a chop. Priest responded with a punch, forcing Drew to retreat to the floor. ## Taking advantage, Drew caught Priest as he attempted a move off the ring steps, delivering an overhead belly-to-belly suplex on the floor. After returning Priest to the ring, Drew resumed the attack with chops and punches. Priest fought back with a back heel kick, attempting to Irish whip Drew into the ring post. However, Drew halted the move, and Priest redirected Drew into the post, following up with a Broken Arrow onto the announce table before a commercial break. ## Upon returning, Priest focused on Drew's leg with kicks and forearms. Drew retaliated with chops and punches, but Priest countered with a kick to the back of the leg. The back-and-forth strikes continued, culminating in both men being down. Drew rallied with clotheslines and another overhead belly-to-belly suplex. He followed up with a neckbreaker, setting up for the Claymore, but Priest evaded by moving out of the way. ## Priest missed a spinning back heel kick, allowing Drew to execute a spinebuster for a near fall. Priest responded with a forearm and sent Drew into the turnbuckles. Charging into the corner, Priest met a kick from Drew. Priest countered with a leaping flatliner for a close two-count. ## Attempting an elbow in the corner, Priest was caught by Drew. Despite kicks to the ribs and leg from Priest, Drew landed a headbutt and ended up on the apron. Drew went for a move from the top rope but missed, rolling through. Priest capitalized with a kick to the head and a Falcon Arrow for a near fall. Priest added a flip dive onto Drew on the floor. ## R Truth made an appearance with Priest's money, distracting him. Priest shoved Truth down, but this allowed Drew to hit a Future Shock. Truth tried to retrieve the password for Priest's briefcase, but Drew intervened with a forearm. Priest attempted South of Heaven, but Truth distracted the referee, preventing the count. Priest dispatched Truth, but Drew capitalized with a Claymore for the three-count. ## WINNER: Drew McIntyre ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

During the January 22 broadcast of WWE Raw, two prominent stars on the main roster engaged in a compelling face-to-face encounter for the inaugural event. Throughout the segment, the majority of their interaction centered around reminiscing about Dusty Rhodes. ## CM Punk had entered the backstage area, Cody Rhodes trailing behind him. The scene transitioned, leading Cody Rhodes to make his way to the ring, with CM Punk following suit.## Punk suggested they savor the moment, recognizing the diverse paths that brought them to this point. He expressed the hope that they would still be friends come Sunday morning, post their match.## Cody inquired about the topic Punk wanted to discuss. Punk redirected the conversation to Cody's father, Dusty Rhodes. Punk reminisced about Dusty reaching out in 2007, entrusting Punk to watch over his youngest son, Cody, who was then training at OVW. Punk took pride in Cody's evolution from a preliminary wrestler to a main event superstar.## Punk admitted to feeling like he was breaking a promise on Saturday, acknowledging that when the bell rang, he wouldn't be looking out for Cody but looking for him. Punk declared his intent to win the Royal Rumble, even if it meant landing punches on Cody's face.## Cody acknowledged that thoughts of Dusty were on his mind too. He spoke about the challenge of living in the shadow of such a legendary figure, emphasizing his efforts to be his own man – a light rather than just a shadow. Cody reflected on his start in OVW, expressing gratitude for Punk treating him as a peer and friend. Cody acknowledged that the Rumble wouldn't have any friends.## Punk questioned Cody's ability to separate business from personal, considering Cody's deep ties to the wrestling business. He spoke of his own journey, not having a famous father and not benefiting from nepotism. Punk highlighted the burden Cody faced with the Rhodes name, praising him for emerging from that shadow.## Cody brought up Punk's departure after the "Pipe Bomb" and claimed that Punk dropped the torch, but Cody picked it up. He asserted to be more CM Punk than Punk himself.## Feeling the tension rise, Punk removed his sweatshirt and outlined the path to WrestleMania for Cody. He acknowledged Cody's accomplishments but warned of a bigger superstar – himself – looming in the distance.## Cody insisted on moving forward and through Punk at the Royal Rumble. They went face to face, and after a brief pause, both Punk and Cody left the ring together. Punk confidently declared to Wade and Cole that he would win the Rumble, urging them to put their money on him. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...