Psyko’s random thoughts on wrestling: I truly feel sorry for the wrestlers being held hostage by AEW right now
So, it’s been a while since I shared my thoughts on multiple subjects in wrestling, so I think it’s the right time to have some fun and write about various topics in wrestling.
WWE
Hulk Hogan Getting Booed on the RAW Premiere: Can we just get over this already? It’s been two weeks since it happened, and we’re still trying to figure out why he got booed. Some say it’s because of his political beliefs; others think it’s due to things he said and did in the past. In the end, it doesn’t really matter why it happened. Hogan is still hugely popular outside the WWE Universe. His Beach Shop is thriving, and it’s doing so well that they’re opening a new location in Tennessee. His beer is also performing well, and fans are still showing up to his appearances. I doubt he cares that the IWC and fans in California don’t like him.
Penta’s Debut: Penta’s debut was handled really well. You needed him to look like a star right off the bat, and that’s exactly how he looked coming out of his debut. Having him debut in San Jose, where there’s a strong Latino community, was a great move, and Chad made sure to make him look like a million bucks. Now, we’ll see if he can build on that momentum or fade away quickly.
The Men’s Royal Rumble: The Men’s Royal Rumble looks very interesting this year, with so many main event stars entering the match. I feel like this could be one of the best Men’s Rumbles since the 1992 edition, just based on the unpredictability factor. I do feel bad for the women, though, as they’ll have to open the show this year.
AEW
AEW Holding Wrestlers Hostage: I truly feel sorry for the wrestlers being held hostage by AEW right now. For some reason, Tony seems upset that Ethan Page became a big star after leaving AEW. When the company started in 2019, they prided themselves on not being like WWE and being a more talent-friendly company. This included allowing talent to leave if they weren’t happy. Now, five years later, WWE is actually letting talent go when they want, while AEW is keeping them hostage.
The sad part is that AEW isn’t just keeping them hostage—they’re not even using them. In the case of Fenix, he can’t wrestle elsewhere or earn royalties from his merchandise sales, which is a new low for the wrestling business. Personally, I think this is awful and shouldn’t happen in modern wrestling. Who cares if some talent becomes bigger stars elsewhere? AEW has more than enough wrestlers who can become stars within the company, so they don’t need to keep unhappy talent.
AEW’s Simulcast on MAX: It was reported that WBD was disappointed with the results of AEW Dynamite’s first simulcast on MAX. That’s why they asked AEW to do a “Maximum Carnage” special this week. In my opinion, this is a bad start for AEW on MAX. Let’s hope AEW can attract more fans to the streaming service over the next two to three years. If they can’t, I wouldn’t be surprised if WBD decides to cut ties with them, especially if they sell the TV division during this period.
TNA
The biggest news in TNA is the major deal they made with WWE. I’ve already written a whole column on this, but I just want to add that, if done right, both companies will benefit from this partnership—just like how the NJPW/CMLL and AEW partnerships have been beneficial for all parties.
TNA Genesis Predictions
TNA Genesis is this Sunday, and the show has become even more intriguing now that they’ve signed a deal with WWE. They’ve announced that NXT talent will be part of the show. Here are my predictions for the matches and possible NXT appearances…
Kazarian vs. Léo Slater: I like Slater, but I think Kazarian will win, especially if my prediction for the main event comes true.
Moose vs. Ace Austin: This will be a fantastic David vs. Goliath match, but I don’t see Austin taking the championship from Moose.
Spitfire vs. Ash and Heather (by Elegance): This is one of the harder matches to predict. Spitfire has been on the losing end of this feud, which makes me think they’ll retain their titles on Sunday.
Josh Alexander vs. Mike Santana: This last-man-standing match will likely be very violent. Since Josh is leaving TNA soon, I expect Santana to win.
Jordynne Grace vs. Tessa Blanchard: This will be a barnburner of a match. Since Jordynne is on her way out, I see her doing the honors for Tessa.
The Rascalz vs. The Hardys: A classic veteran vs. rookie match. While I don’t see the Rascalz winning the belts, this match will elevate them. I could see Wes Lee showing up and reigniting his feud with his former friends.
Masha Slamovich vs. Rosemary: This is a “Raven’s House of Fun” match, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see a new Knockouts Champion. Cora Jade might interfere and cost Slamovich the title.
The System vs. Young and McClain: This is a buffer match and will probably feel like a TV match. The System should win, and I hope this leads to McClain turning heel again.
Joe Hendry vs. Nic Nemeth (Main Event): If their last match is any indication, this could be a Match of the Year candidate. Unless Hendry is leaving, it makes no sense for him to lose. I predict Hendry will win, but Kazarian might cash in his title shot and take the belt immediately afterward.
NXT Appearances: Outside of Wes Lee and Cora Jade, we might see Oba Femi in the X Division match and possibly Ethan Page during the Alexander vs. Santana match.
So those are my random thoughts on current news in pro wrestling. As always, enjoy wrestling, and for those watching Genesis tomorrow, enjoy the show!