Devas Dixit

BY JITU JANGIR

The 2024 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony inducts its 25th class tonight, April 5th, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The event precedes WrestleMania XL and will livestream on Peacock in the US and the WWE Network internationally following SmackDown.## Among this year's inductees are wrestling veterans Paul Heyman, Bull Nakano, and The U.S. Express (Barry Windham and Mike Rotunda). The ceremony will also honor boxing legend Muhammad Ali and wrestler Thunderbolt Patterson. ## WWE Hall of Fame 2024 Results April 5, 2024## Peter Rosenberg welcomes the viewers to the Countdown to the Hall of Fame as the crew prepares the ring for the prestigious ceremony. He highlights the night's inductees, with Paul Heyman taking center stage. Kayla Braxton and Cathy Kelley then discuss the significance of the evening before Rosenberg reintroduces the 2024 class.## Excitement is palpable as the hosts interview various WWE personalities. Trish Stratus reminisces about her own Hall of Fame induction and her special WrestleMania memories, particularly her first one. Natalya expresses her joy about the wrestling community coming together and celebrates those who paved the way for her family's legacy. She highlights Owen Hart vs. Bret Hart as her favorite WrestleMania match and voices her support for the upcoming "Brother vs. Brother" match.## CM Punk, despite a long day, is enthusiastic about Paul Heyman's recognition. He reflects on the significance of WrestleMania XL, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding WrestleMania 2's existence. However, his excitement gets the better of him as he forgets the names of Seth and Drew during the interview.## Michin anticipates AJ Styles settling his differences with LA Knight and rejoining The O.C. However, Nikki Cross interjects, expressing her eagerness to see Bull Nakano. The two engage in a playful debate about the winner of the Bayley vs. Iyo Sky match.## Maxxine Dupree acknowledges the SmackDown crew and the electrifying atmosphere leading up to the weekend. She expresses her gratitude for female pioneers like Bull Nakano and Alundra Blayze who empowered today's generation of wrestlers.## Shayna Baszler discusses her Bloodsport match from the night before. She eagerly awaits Bull Nakano, Muhammad Ali, and Paul Heyman's inductions. Keeping a close eye on the upcoming women's title match, she acknowledges Bayley's need to prove herself while recognizing Becky Lynch as a constant threat. While open to any future opponent, she wouldn't mind challenging a champion, perhaps Rhea Ripley.## Charlotte Flair celebrates the inductions of Mike Rotunda and Paul Heyman, both instrumental figures in her career. She expresses her appreciation for her husband Andrade and details her enjoyable experiences at a Phillies game and The World. She looks forward to socializing with the VIPs.## Grayson Waller, despite a rough day on SmackDown, maintains his signature charisma. He expresses his excitement for the legendary figures being inducted, particularly Ken Shamrock and the ECW representatives. He's particularly enthusiastic about Paul Heyman's induction and flaunts his stylish pink shoes.## Peter Rosenberg chats with Bayley at ringside. She acknowledges her pre-match jitters but finds motivation in the surrounding energy. She admires Bull Nakano's confidence, a quality she has incorporated into her own persona.## Bronson Reed, a huge Bull Nakano fan, highlights Paul Heyman's significant influence on him as both a fan and a mentee. He sets his sights on winning the Andre the Giant Battle Royal and keeps a watchful eye on the Intercontinental Title Match at WrestleMania.## Montez Ford and Bianca Belair share their excitement for the weekend and their upcoming performance. They express their gratitude to the ever-supportive WWE fanbase. ## The 2024 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony kicks off with a video package highlighting the legendary status of Hall of Famers and introducing the night's inductees. Corey Graves and Jackie Redmond welcome the audience and point out celebrities like Paul Levesque (Triple H) and Stephanie McMahon, CM Punk, and Rey Mysterio. ## Roman Reigns Inducts Paul Heyman ## As Paul Heyman's name is called, the crowd erupts in an ECW chant. A video package dedicated to Heyman's career precedes his induction. Roman Reigns steps forward as Heyman's inductor. Reigns acknowledges the difficulty of introducing "the best promo in the business." He shares a few anecdotes about Heyman's wisdom and guidance, crediting Heyman for believing in him even when Reigns himself doubted his abilities. Reigns declares that "the Tribal Chief" wouldn't exist without Heyman and inducts him into the Hall of Fame. ## Heyman enters the ring to a roaring ECW chant. He embraces Rob Van Dam, Tommy Dreamer, and Bubba Ray Dudley before reaching the podium. Heyman acknowledges the chants of "You deserve it!" and takes a moment to absorb the atmosphere. He declares his lack of preparation, opting to feel the energy of the crowd. Heyman humorously recounts seeking advice from his son, who sits beside CM Punk.## Heyman expresses gratitude for being able to work in the world of professional wrestling. He highlights the significance of being chosen first by Paul Levesque for this year's Hall of Fame class. He acknowledges Levesque's leadership and their newfound working relationship. Heyman shouts out Stephanie McMahon, crediting her for being a strong woman and playfully suggests she "married the wrong Paul." ## Heyman delivers a heartfelt message to his children, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one's dreams and living a life worthy of respect. He gets emotional while expressing his love for his late parents and his admiration for the legendary Dusty Rhodes.## Donning his signature ECW attire, Heyman launches into a passionate speech about the revolutionary impact of ECW. He emphasizes ECW's role in reviving professional wrestling and disputes claims that the concept of extreme wrestling is dead. Heyman asserts that the spirit of ECW lives on in the matches, ideas, and fan enthusiasm.## Heyman concludes his speech with a message of resilience. He emphasizes that only individuals can limit themselves from achieving their dreams. He highlights his current work with Roman Reigns and the future of the industry, mentioning promising stars like Bron Breakker, Rhea Ripley, and Carmelo Hayes. Heyman signs off with his trademark "Ladies and Gentlemen..." and a final message - he's not finished yet. The ECW theme plays as Heyman exits the stage, handing his jacket and cap to his children. ## Bull Nakano is inducted into the Hall of Fame. A video package of her career is shown. Superstars talk about the impact she had on them. Alundra Blayze inducts Nakano. She says Nakano was a revolution and a pioneer. Nakano thanks Alundra and says she is happy to be inducted. She talks about her time in WWE and thanks Madusa and the WWE Universe. ## The 2024 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony honored both boxing legend Muhammad Ali and wrestler Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. A video package showcased Ali's boxing achievements, mic skills, activism, and even his WrestleMania I involvement. The Undertaker inducted Ali, praising his iconic quotes, dominance in the ring, and humanitarian efforts. ## Lonnie Ali, Ali's widow, then delivered a heartfelt speech detailing his life and passion, crediting him as the original "global sports entertainer" and highlighting his influence on The Rock. The Rock himself received a custom "People's Championship" belt from Lonnie Ali, sharing a story about Ali's approval of the nickname. He acknowledged the mixed crowd reaction before thanking them and exiting the stage. ## The 2024 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony inducts The U.S. Express, Barry Windham and Mike Rotunda.## A video package highlights their careers, including their tag team run and later singles careers.## Taylor Rotunda (Bo Dallas) and Mika Rotunda induct the team. They acknowledge Windham Rotunda's (Bray Wyatt) absence but assure the audience he's present in spirit.## They praise The U.S. Express for their teamwork, in-ring dominance, and lasting impact on future wrestlers.## Windham and Rotunda take the stage. Mike thanks the audience and mentions the special significance of Philadelphia, where he competed years ago.## He shares their wrestling origin story, including influences like Dusty Rhodes and The Destroyer. Barry adds details about their personal lives and early careers.## Mike reflects on WrestleMania I and the evolution of WrestleMania over the years. He expresses his wish for his son, Windham Rotunda, to be there and leads the crowd in a tribute to him with Bray Wyatt's theme music. ## The New Day's Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston introduce Big E for their first reunion in a WWE ring in a long time. They dedicate the moment to Thunderbolt Patterson, a man known for his charisma and oratory skills.## The New Day credit Patterson for advocating for equal and fair pay, challenging bigotry, and paving the way for their success. They lead the crowd in a chant for Patterson.## A video package highlights Patterson's gift for connecting with fans and his lasting influence on the wrestling industry.## Steve Spears, a wrestling fan, takes the stage to honor Patterson. He compares Patterson's impact to Jackie Robinson's in baseball and shares a story about Patterson overcoming racism.## Patterson delivers an emotional speech. He thanks God and a few key figures in his career, emphasizing the importance of treating others with respect. He exits the stage with a call for kindness. ## The Rock congratulates the 2024 WWE Hall of Fame inductees before inducting his grandmother, Lia Maivia.## He credits Maivia for being a trailblazer who opened doors in the male-dominated wrestling industry. The Rock highlights Maivia's success promoting events during a time of territorial competition, attracting stars like Dusty Rhodes.## He acknowledges his respect for Dusty Rhodes but emphasizes that his upcoming WrestleMania match against Cody Rhodes is "personal."## The Rock thanks everyone on behalf of his family, including his mother Ata Johnson, before exiting and ending the show. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY JITU JANGIR

Here are the full results for this Friday's SmackDown which is scheduled to air live on April 5, 2024, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA. ## 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 5:30 am. While SmackDown airs live on Fox Sports in Mexico and across Central and South America since 2014. ## WWE Friday Night SmackDown, April 5, 2024 Play-By-Play Results ## WWE Raw opens with Meek Mill narrating the intro for the show and Wrestlemania.## Kevin Owens hosts a special edition of Kevin Owens Show on Wrestlemania weekend. His guest is Randy Orton. They discuss their upcoming triple threat match against Logan Paul at Wrestlemania. Owens rates his and Randy's dislike for Logan Paul on a scale of 1 to 10, with Randy giving it an 11.## Logan Paul interrupts the show, bragging about his success. Owens and Randy confront Logan, but Austin Theory and Grayson Waller ambush them. After a commercial break, Owens and Randy struggle to open their car door. Owens gets in a golf cart to chase after Logan Paul. A video package for Andre the Giant plays. ## Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal ## The Royal Rumble was a night of chaos. Omos dominated the early goings-on, eliminating multiple wrestlers including himself through sheer size and power. The Miz and Morrison were some of the first to fall victim to his dominance. Other tag teams weren't much luckier, with Angel and Humberto falling to a combined effort, and Crews succumbing to Jinder Mahal's team. The Street Profits managed to eliminate Veer and Sanga, but Ricochet wasn't as fortunate, being tossed out after a well-placed kick from Ivar followed by a push from JD.## The final stretch saw Tozawa eliminate JD but then get taken out by a combined attack from Ivar and the eventual winner, Dominik Reed. Otis put up a valiant fight, showcasing his strength with a caterpillar and elbow drop, but Ivar outsmarted him for the elimination. In a heart-stopping finale, Ivar went for a moonsault but missed, leaving himself open for a clothesline from Reed. Reed capitalized on the opportunity, throwing Ivar over the top rope and securing his victory in the Royal Rumble. ## WINNER: Bronson Reed ## Solo Sikoa and Jimmy Uso are seen walking in the parking lot earlier today. Logan Paul is shown walking through the hallway of the arena.## Karrion Kross says he targeted Bobby to send a message and they will light it up at Wrestlemania.## Logan Paul complains about spending a week in Philadelphia and insults the crowd and Randy Orton and Kevin Owens. He says his associates Grayson Waller and Austin Theory are about to ambush them.## We see Theory and Waller looking for Owens and Orton but Owens and Orton surprise them with an attack. Owens stuns Logan Paul with an RKO.## Dragon Lee is down with an injury. Carlito calls for help. The rest of LWO, a doctor, and Nick Aldis join Rey and Zelina. ## Zelina Vega (with Rey Mysterio) vs Elektra Lopez (with Santos Escobar, Dominik Mysterio, and Andrade) ## Zelina Vega and Elektra Lopez battle it out in a fast-paced match. Vega lands a jawbreaker and forearm followed by kicks and a running knee to the head. Lopez fights back with a forearm, uranage, and attempt at a move from the turnbuckles.## Vega counters with a Tiger Feint Kick and a DDT but gets distracted by Dominik interfering. Lopez capitalizes on the distraction with a sit-out powerbomb for the win. ## WINNER: Elektra Lopez ## Dominik attacks Rey Mysterio after his loss to Elektra Lopez. Santos joins in the assault but is stopped by Andrade. Andrade sides with Rey and they embrace.## Bianca Belair and Naomi cut a promo in the ring. They announce Bianca's WrestleMania partner, Jade Cargill. Cargill vows to show Damage CTRL what they're made of.## Jey Uso promises to defeat Jimmy Uso tonight and Roman Reigns tomorrow at WrestleMania.## Backstage, Rey Mysterio learns that Dragon Lee is unable to compete at WrestleMania. Zelina Vega is worried about Rey facing Santos and Dominik alone. Andrade volunteers to be Rey's partner. Carlito appears and approves of the new tag team. ## Tyler Bate and Pete Dunne vs Austin Theory and Grayson Waller ## Pete Dunne and Trent Seven team up to take on Austin Theory and Grayson Waller in an exciting tag team match. The match starts with Dunne and Theory locking up. Theory goes for a wrist lock, but Dunne quickly reverses it into an arm bar. Theory uses the ropes to break the hold and delivers a forearm strike. ## Dunne blocks Theory's kick and counters with a dragon screw, stomping on Theory's leg. He then tags in Bate, who hits a senton off Dunne's shoulders. Bate follows up with a dropkick and tags out to Waller. Bate applies a Greco Roman knuckle lock and a walking head scissors on Waller before taking him down near the turnbuckles. He attempts an airplane spin, but Theory interferes from the apron. ## Dunne goes for a pescado (diving attack) but Theory counters with a forearm. Outside the ring, Bate hits a suicide dive on Theory. Waller responds with a punch and a tornado DDT on Bate on the apron. After a commercial break, the action resumes with Bate being sent into the turnbuckles. Waller tags in and punches Bate repeatedly. Theory enters the ring and delivers a rolling blockbuster for Waller, nearly securing the pinfall. ## Bate blocks a suplex attempt from Theory and counters with a dead lift suplex of his own. Waller tries to prevent Bate from tagging Dunne, but Bate manages to make the hot tag. Dunne enters the ring on fire, kicking both Waller and Theory. He hits a German suplex on Theory followed by a snap German suplex on Waller. Dunne stomps on Waller's hand and connects with a dropkick. ## He goes for Waller's fingers, but Theory breaks the hold with a slingshot rolling dropkick. Bate lands a punch on Theory, but Waller takes him down with a jumping knee. Waller charges at Bate for another attack, but Dunne stops him with a forearm. In the end, Bate tags back in and they team up to hit their signature double Burning Hammer on Waller for the three count, winning the match. ## WINNER: Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate ## Following their exciting tag team match, Pete Dunne and Trent Seven are brutally attacked by The Judgment Day. Damian Priest hits both Dunne and Bate with choke slams. Finn Balor teams up with Priest for a Razor's Edge on Dunne. The Judgment Day continues their assault with Dominik delivering a frog splash on Dunne and Priest hitting Theory with another choke slam. Balor finishes Theory off with a Coup de Grace.## In a backstage interview, Bayley reflects on her role in Damage CTRL's formation. She highlights her accomplishments as the first women's tag team champion and the first grand slam champion. Bayley claims she wanted to create something groundbreaking with Damage CTRL. They shared a vision of domination and achieved it, but things went south when Iyo Sky brought in Asuka and Kairi Sane. Bayley feels ostracized by her former teammates. Despite a record-breaking Royal Rumble win, Bayley says Sky doesn't believe in her.## Iyo Sky refutes Bayley's claims. She states that Bayley created Damage CTRL out of insecurity and a desire for personal glory. Sky believes they surpassed Bayley and that their initial friendship was a sham. She vows to make Bayley regret their past bond.## Bayley questions the authenticity of their friendship. She claims to have created Damage CTRL and will destroy it. Bayley declares she is stronger than ever and promises to make Iyo Sky regret betraying her.## Solo Sikoa prepares for his upcoming match, visibly injured. The show goes to commercial.## After the break, LA Knight returns to the ring. He addresses his Wrestlemania encounter with AJ Styles. Knight boasts about feeling refreshed after two nights and criticizes Styles for not showing up for their scheduled match. Knight promises to dominate Styles and silence him. He claims Styles should be grateful for the attention Knight brings him. Knight vows to brutally attack Styles and establish himself as the superior star.## B Fab and Bobby Lashley respond to their rivals' challenge. B Fab acknowledges the ongoing attacks and promises to settle the score in their upcoming Philadelphia Street Fight. Lashley declares they are ready to face the darkness and emerge victorious. ## Jey Uso vs Solo Sikoa ## Jey throws punches at Solo, but Solo shoves him away. Jey counters with an uppercut as Solo charges. Jey gets sent to the ring apron and retaliates with a kick at Solo. Jey pulls down the ropes, sending Solo crashing over the top rope to the floor. Solo retaliates with a punch as Jey attempts a suicide dive. Solo slams Jey onto the apron with a powerful uranage.## Jey fights back with punches, but Solo overpowers him with a belly-to-belly suplex, nearly pinning him. Solo dominates the corner, punching and head-butting Jey. He attempts a running hip attack, but Jey dodges. Jey unleashes a flurry of punches, then connects with a dragon whip. He gains momentum with a running hip attack into the corner, nearly pinning Solo again.## Jey charges, but Solo counters with a Samoan drop. Solo attempts a Samoan Spike, but Jey blasts him with two superkicks. Despite the impact, Solo refuses to go down. Jey finishes the sequence with a spear and climbs the top turnbuckle. He launches himself with a frog splash, connecting perfectly. Jimmy breaks up the pin just in time, saving Solo from defeat. ## WINNER: Jey Uso (by disqualification) ## Following a hard-fought match, Jimmy punches Jey and restrains him for Solo's Samoan Spike. Just as Solo prepares the move, Cody Rhodes' music hits. Cody and Seth storm the ring, forcing Jimmy and Solo to watch. The unexpected duo attacks – Cody superkicks Jimmy, Seth superkicks Solo, and Cody finishes Solo with a Cody Cutter.## Cody grabs his weight belt and whips both Jimmy and Solo with it, mirroring the attack The Rock and Roman Reigns inflicted earlier. Jey chases Jimmy back into the ring and hits a CrossRhodes with assistance from Seth's whip. Jey finishes Jimmy off with a frog splash.## Cody addresses the crowd, highlighting the significance of 40 years of WrestleMania. He and Seth plan to humble "The Final Boss" tomorrow night, reminding him of his time as the People's Champion. They vow to dismantle the Bloodline and for Cody to dethrone Roman Reigns on Sunday. Cody declares he fights for everyone who believes in him. He concludes by stating that when one story ends on Sunday, an even greater one will begin. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY JITU JANGIR

While AEW's partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has been a cornerstone of their success, the future of their media rights deal remains shrouded in mystery.## During a recent media call for Ring of Honor's Supercard of Honor event (acquired by AEW), Tony Khan, president of AEW, was tight-lipped when questioned about the exclusive negotiation window with WBD.## When pressed by reporter Josh Nason of Wrestling Observer on the specific date, Khan offered a cryptic response: "I'm not sure that I am able to answer that question... It's coming up soon. I probably shouldn't say the exact date."## This secrecy highlights the importance of these upcoming negotiations for AEW. Their current deal, which includes airing shows like Dynamite on WBD networks, is reportedly set to expire by the end of 2024.## With several successful programs under their belt and a growing fanbase, AEW is likely seeking a favorable outcome in these negotiations. However, Khan's reluctance to discuss the timeline suggests a desire to keep their hand close and avoid jeopardizing their position.## While the exact date remains under wraps, Khan's comments confirm that these crucial talks are approaching. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY JITU JANGIR

John Cena's wrestling fans might be waiting a while longer to see him back in the ring. According to PWInsider's Mike Johnson, Cena is locked into filming the second season of "Peacemaker" from June to November in Atlanta.## This filming commitment throws a wrench into Cena's potential WrestleMania 40 appearance. While he hasn't been officially advertised for the event, speculation swirled about his return.## "While some in WWE expect John Cena to be in town for #WrestleMania XL this weekend, Cena will be off the board for anything major physical wise in the WWE realm for most of the remainder of 2024 as he’ll be filming the 2nd season of Peacemaker from June to November."Via PWInsider ## Cena's last WWE match was at Crown Jewel 2022 in a losing effort against Solo Sikoa.## Those eager to see Cena can catch him on WWE's new show, "WWE Next Gen," streaming on The Roku Channel.## We'll keep you updated on any developments regarding Cena's WrestleMania status. ##

BY JITU JANGIR

Two members of the AEW roster, The Boys (Brent and Brandon Tate), were recently released from their contracts due to repeated absences according to AEW President Tony Khan.## This news comes as a surprise as The Boys were involved in a prominent storyline with Dalton Castle and Johnny TV within the Ring of Honor promotion, acquired by AEW. Castle and TV are still scheduled to face off at Supercard of Honor this weekend.## Speaking at a Supercard of Honor media call, Khan addressed the releases. He confirmed that The Boys' no-showing of multiple events led to the difficult decision of letting them go.## Khan also mentioned that these talent cuts are part of a larger strategy. AEW is "keeping their eye" on the budget to ensure they have the financial resources to compete for top talent when opportunities arise. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY JITU JANGIR

AEW wrestler Dax Harwood has cleared the air regarding comments made on Dynamite that some fans interpreted as a dig at CM Punk.## During the recent episode, both Adam Copeland (aka Edge) and Harwood delivered passionate promos about AEW. Harwood's speech, which included a line about not letting people "steal your joy," sparked speculation of a veiled reference to CM Punk's controversial interview.## Taking to social media, Harwood refuted these claims. He emphasized his respect for Fightful's reporting but clarified that his comments weren't directed at anyone, especially "one of my best friends," presumably referring to Punk.## Harwood explained the emotional context of his promo: "Try to stay off social media but I read this this morning and I have to respond... I was in the ring with 3 great friends, in front of a great crowd, realizing what we had all overcame, and felt emotional."## Sean Ross Sapp, journalist at Fightful, apologized for the misinterpreted article. Harwood responded with understanding, acknowledging that "rah rah speeches" are a regular part of his closing segments, even with Punk in the past. ## "It's ok dude. I don't blame you. That's why I said I respect your reporting. I just wanted to clear up anything... If I'm the last guy in the ring at the end of the night, I ALWAYS cut a passionate rah rah speech and talk about loving my wife daughter and wrestling in front of the crowd. Done it multiple times with Adam, a TON of times with Punk, and I've even done it after ROH tapings. It's never been a headline before. I guess the timing made it newsworthy." ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY JITU JANGIR

WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia might have a surprise guest from the world of sports! Recently retired Philadelphia Eagles legend Jason Kelce has been spotted in the city ahead of the event, fueling speculation about a potential WWE appearance.## This news comes after reports surfaced of WWE trying to secure Kelce for WrestleMania 40. Kelce's entire career was spent playing for the beloved Eagles, making a hometown appearance at Lincoln Financial Field highly anticipated by fans.## While Kelce's presence in Philly could simply be unrelated to WrestleMania, a WWE source offered a cryptic response when questioned about his potential involvement: "I can't tell you that, but if he was, you'd think we'd book him to do something physical in the stadium he called home, right?"## This statement hints at the possibility of Kelce engaging in some physical action within the very stadium where he achieved football glory.## With Kelce's brother, Travis Kelce, being a Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs, and his relationship with pop star Taylor Swift, his appearance at WrestleMania would undoubtedly generate significant buzz. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY JITU JANGIR

Legendary wrestler Ric Flair has nothing but respect for current WWE champion Roman Reigns. In a recent interview on Daily Ticket, Flair showered Reigns with praise, even calling him the "flagship" of the company's men's division.## "Roman is great," Flair said. "He's done a phenomenal job. He's been the flagship since John [Cena] left."## Flair, a 16-time world champion himself, understands the pressure of carrying a company. He acknowledges the importance of the role Reigns has taken on, especially after John Cena's reduced appearances.## The Nature Boy also complimented Reigns' work alongside his daughter, Charlotte Flair. While Charlotte is currently recovering from a knee injury, Flair believes she'll be back stronger than ever and remains the "flagship" of the women's division.## This isn't the first time Flair has spoken highly of Reigns. He previously expressed his desire to have shared the ring with The Tribal Chief, though their careers didn't overlap.## With WrestleMania 40 just around the corner, where Reigns is scheduled to headline both nights, it's clear The Rock isn't the only legend recognizing Roman Reigns' dominance in WWE. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY JITU JANGIR

There's a change of tune coming from WWE's Seth Rollins regarding AEW's Will Ospreay. After a social media spat in 2019, Rollins is now singing Ospreay's praises.## In a recent interview with The Ringer, Rollins acknowledged Ospreay's talent, stating: "[He] is absolutely one of the best performers in the world, and I'm happy that he is finally, you know, getting to the very top level in our industry."## This comes after a period of tension between the two wrestlers. In 2019, they exchanged barbs on social media, with Rollins taking a jab at Ospreay's finances. Rollins later apologized for the comment.## Rollins also addressed his past, WWE-centric stance. He explained his fierce loyalty to the company, calling it his home and praising the entire team, from talent to production. He believes WWE is the best and takes pride in the work they do for the industry.## This newfound respect for Ospreay suggests a softening of Rollins' stance and a recognition of exceptional talent across wrestling companies. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY JITU JANGIR

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's WWE future is looking electrifying! Despite his upcoming return to the ring at WrestleMania 40, fans can rest assured that this isn't a one-off. ## The Rock is scheduled for his first official match in 11 years at WrestleMania, teaming up with Roman Reigns against Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins. While his movie commitments will limit his appearances after WrestleMania, The Rock himself has made it clear his ties to WWE run deep.## In an interview with ESPN, both The Rock and his business partner Brian Gewirtz addressed his future. The Rock emphasized his enduring connection to the company: "I'm not off the board after WrestleMania. I'm still on the board, and I will always be a part of this. And we are in it now. This is our thing and will forever be our thing."## Gewirtz clarified that this doesn't necessarily mean frequent appearances on Raw, but a Rock presence will undoubtedly remain. "There's gonna be a Rock presence in WWE going forward until whenever he doesn't want to," he said. "This isn't [over a] day after WrestleMania and I'm gonna go off into the sunset now."## So, WWE fans, rejoice! While The Rock's in-ring appearances might be limited, his legacy and electrifying presence are confirmed to stay a part of the WWE experience.## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY JITU JANGIR

The Rock's highly anticipated WWE return at WrestleMania 40 is inching closer, and new details about his training regimen have surfaced. According to a recent ESPN report, NXT provided some unexpected muscle to help The Great One prepare for his in-ring comeback.## The report reveals that Gallus, a prominent NXT faction consisting of the Scottish trio Joe Coffey, Mark Coffey (Joe's real-life brother), and Wolfgang, played a pivotal role in training The Rock. All three wrestlers were previously mainstays in NXT UK before making the jump to NXT proper. Mark Coffey boasts an impressive achievement as a former NXT Heritage Cup Champion, while he and Wolfgang have held both the NXT UK and NXT Tag Team Titles.## The Rock's training sessions took place in Los Angeles, California, and were supervised by veteran producers Michael Hayes and Bobby Roode. Ensuring a smooth flow, referee Chad Patton was present to officiate the drills, with WWE medical personnel on standby for any necessary support. This meticulous approach highlights the importance WWE places on The Rock's return and his big match at WrestleMania.## At WrestleMania 40, The Rock is set to team up with his cousin Roman Reigns on night one. Together, they'll face a formidable duo of Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins in a highly anticipated tag team showdown. With NXT providing valuable training assistance, The Rock seems well-prepared to deliver a memorable performance at The Grandest Stage of Them All. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY JITU JANGIR

WrestleMania week is upon us, culminating in a two-night event at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on April 6th and 7th. ## WWE President Nick Khan recently revealed on The Town with Matthew Belloni podcast that the deal to bring WrestleMania to Philadelphia has been in the works for over four years. Khan emphasizes that this pre-dates his tenure and expresses excitement for the event.## Night one's main event promises fireworks as Cody Rhodes and World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins team up to challenge the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.## Khan acknowledges The Rock's role on the TKO Board of Directors, a position Khan says was a factor in his return. Negotiations with The Rock regarding a comeback have been ongoing for years, with Khan stating The Rock was focused on finding the right motivation.## Khan highlights the long-standing relationship between The Rock and his representatives at WME, suggesting their influence played a part. He emphasizes the value of The Rock's input on TKO, which is affiliated with WWE. Finally, after years of discussions, the timing aligned for The Rock's return, motivated by his involvement with a successful publicly traded company and the chance to return to the ring. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...