At the recent AEW Full Gear pay-per-view event, Julia Hart emerged victorious over Chris Statlander, clinching the TBS Championship and marking a significant milestone in her wrestling career. Now, it’s been confirmed that this triumph has led to a full-time contract with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), elevating her status within the company. Despite the lack of an official announcement or graphic, Fightful Select has confirmed Hart’s transition from a per-date deal to a full-time contract, highlighting AEW’s confidence in her performances and potential.
**CM PUNK FEUDS TEASED ON WWE RAW**
Following CM Punk’s return to WWE at Survivor Series, tensions have been brewing between him and fellow superstars Seth Rollins and Drew McIntyre. On a recent episode of Raw, McIntyre subtly referenced Punk’s return during a promo, while Rollins openly addressed the situation backstage, hinting at potential conflicts in the near future. With Punk scheduled to appear on upcoming episodes, the stage is set for intense rivalries to unfold on WWE programming.
**HUGE MATCH SET FOR WWE RAW NEXT WEEK**
The rivalry between Cody Rhodes and Shinsuke Nakamura is set to escalate as they prepare to face off in a highly anticipated match on next week’s Monday Night Raw. After a heated exchange of words, the challenge was officially accepted, promising an electrifying showdown between two formidable competitors.
**WWE LEGAL TROUBLE DUE TO CATCHPHRASE**
WWE finds itself in legal trouble over the unauthorized use of the catchphrase “Yeet,” which was prominently featured on Jay Uso’s merchandise. Independent wrestler Casey Huffman, who holds the trademark for the term, has issued a cease-and-desist order, prompting WWE to blur out the phrase during Uso’s appearances. Negotiations are underway to resolve the issue amicably.
**AEW STARS FRUSTRATED WITH CREATIVE**
Matt and Jeff Hardy express frustration with their creative direction in AEW, citing changes and lack of consistency in their storylines. Jeff hints at a potential return to his “Antichrist of professional wrestling” persona, seeking to inject new life into his character. Their comments spark discussions about AEW’s utilization of talent and the possibility of a heel turn for the Hardy Boyz.
**MAJOR AEW DEPARTURE CONFIRMED**
Kevin Sullivan, vice president of post-production at AEW, has been relieved of his duties, signaling a major departure behind the scenes. Sullivan, who played a pivotal role in AEW’s production team since its inception, is now parting ways with the company, raising questions about the direction of AEW’s creative team.
**MAJOR CONTRACT SET TO EXPIRE**
New Japan Pro Wrestling’s Kazuchika Okada, one of the industry’s most revered talents, is nearing the end of his contract, fueling speculation about his future. With WWE and AEW both expressing interest in Okada, the wrestling world awaits his decision on whether to remain with NJPW or explore new opportunities abroad.