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Pluggo’s Top 5 of the Week!

by Pluggo
written by Pluggo

Long time no Top 5 friends, it’s been since WrestleMania since I’ve dropped a Top 5, so like Cody Rhodes at Money In The Bank I make my return. For those who missed me and have asked when this was coming back, thank you and sorry for the delay.

Sometimes I have a tendency to bite off more than I can chew and when Spring and Summer hit I’m pretty busy with coaching little league, the shoot job and other forms of content you all enjoy. That said I miss you and writing about wrestling so I’m back after it.

What a week to get that itch. AEW Fyter Feat, WWE Worlds Collide, Money In the Bank all happened this week plus TNA Against All Odds. So many great things to choose from but as true to form I whittle it down to five.

Before we dive into the list of my five favorites from the week. Shoutout to Seth Rollins and Naomi, your 2025 Money In the Bank Winners and Mr. Iguana who has stolen the hearts of wrestling fans everywhere. We need more Mr. Iguana in our lives. Now let’s dive head first into the Top 5 of the Week: 

Stephanie Vaquer Has Arrived!

Vaquer officially made her debut as a member of the RAW Roster and hit the ground running. Stephanie qualified for MITB on Monday, wrestled on Smackdown Friday, Worlds Collide and Money in The Bank on Saturday. While she came up short winning the briefcase it’s clear the WWE has found their next star carry the company into the future.

Jason Hotch vs Mustafa Ali at Against All Odds!

After weeks of tension between Hotch and his leader Mustafa Ali. The two squared off at TNA Against All Odds. This match simply ruled. Jason Hitch was able to match Ali move for move every step of the way. While Ali was the victor, in the end. It’s hard to not look at match as a coming out party for the The Great Hand Jason Hotch, who looks to be well on his way to bigger things in TNA as he seems to be on his way out of Mustafa Ali’s group. 

Becky Lynch Becomes Intercontinental Champion!

Becky Lynch snuck out a big win over the inaugural Women’s Intercontinental Champion Lyra Valkyria to become the new IC champion. This feud has been fanatic so far all the way around. Becky has brought the best out of Valkyria not only in the ring but on the mic and as a character. They had themselves a second classic on the Main Roster at Money in the Bank on Saturday and let’s hope Part III is coming sound. 

Kenny Omega vs Kazuchika Okada Winner Takes All at All In!

How can you not get excited for Omega vs Okada? They have a history of putting on absolute bangers, and Chapter 5 looks to be much of the same. When Okada signed in AEW in 2024 this match was front of the line of dream matches for All Elite Wrestling. Well fast forward to 2025 and we are a month away from AEW biggest show of the year and their biggest dream match has been added to the card. For the 1st time in an AEW ring we are getting Kenny Omega vs Kazuchika and Damnit wrestling is the coolest thing on the planet. 

We Want Truth and They Listened!

Last week the wrestling world was turned upside downby the news that WWE was not renewing R-Truths contract. It sparked a movement known as #WeWantTruth. Well it seems like WWE listened to the fan base as R-Truth showed up at Money In the Bank attacking John Cena during the Main Event. Whether or not it was a shoot or a work, let’s just celebrate that fact R-Truth is back and WWE heard us. This just shows we do have the power to effect change on what we like and do not like when it comes to WWE. 

There you have it folks, my 5 favorite things from the world of professional wrestling. It wasn’t an easy list to craft as so much good is happening across every company in wrestling. This truly is the golden era of professional wrestling as every promotion has something for everyone. Feel free as always to drop you favorites from the week in the chat. As always keep it locked right here for more content from your favorite Love Wrestling personalities, until next time fam, peace! 

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Pluggo’s Top 5 of the Week: Raw After Mania Edition

by Pluggo
written by Pluggo


Is the Raw After Mania back? I wouldsay absolutely without a doubt. Last nights show hit on so many different levels for me. After a few duds over the last couple years, this Raw After Mania hit so well, it deserved its own Top 5. Considering it’s Tuesday and there is so much wrestling left in the week it would have been tough to fit any hint else in. So instead of making you all wait to read about it next week, let’s dive head first into my favorite moments from last nights epic show: 

Becky Lynch Turns on Lyra Valkyria!

One Night after winning the Tag Team Championships Lynch and Lyra Valkyria lose them back to Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez. The match itself was a really good one and Liv and Raquel are now 4 Time Champions. What’s even crazier is Becky turned on the Intercontinental Champion post match and left her laying in the ring. For me Heel Becky is always a fun ride and I can’t wait to see what her explanation is down the line. Also that IC title match will be without question a banger! 

Rusev has Returned!

After Ich rumor and speculation that RUSEV had resigned with the WWE he has finally returned to the company. As rumors ran wild that he would potentially be Randy Ortons Partner at Mania but instead it’s the Raw After Mania where he lands. Rusev puts the whole roster on notice after wrecking an impromptu Tag make between the New Day and Alpha Academy. 

Women’s Wrestling Is Alive and Well! 

Sure, Thunder Rosa held up the sign on an AEW Program but that statement reigns true throughout the business. The RAW After Mania showcased just how damn special their roster is.

Iyo Sky came out to celebrate her WrestleMania victory and none other than the faster rising star in wrestling NXT Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer stepped up and made the challenge and Iyo accepted. A banger of a match ensued until Roxanne Perez and Giulia of NXT busted up the match. To only be met by Mami herself Rhea Ripley saving Iyo and Vaquer! Oh and by the way Mami reminded Iyo she’ll be back for that title! What a great segment to showcase unbelievable talent! 

Gunther is Unhinged! 

Gunther is slowly becoming the most dangerous person on the planet, if that’s was even possible. He lost his title to Jey Uso at WrestleMania. So after the Jey Uso Celebration Gunther was not happy with the way Micheal Cole and Pat McAfee spoke about the Ring General. Listen, it was pretty bold of Cole to tell Gunther to his Face “I’m not the One Who Tapped Out” which cause Gunther to attack Cole and McAfee wasn’t having it and jumped in to the defense of Cole only to get laid out. Shoutout to Cole for coming back to commentary and standing on business after Adam Pearce offer to give him the rest of the night off! M

Another Paul Heyman Guy!

Last nights Raw After Mania ended in spectacular fashion. As Seth Rollins and Paul Heyman were just about to explain their actions from WrestleMania. CM Punks music hits and he beelines for Rollins. Seth ultimately fought him off. Then Heyman looks to end the show putting over Rollins while standing over Punk. Hell, that would have made for an epic ending in itself. Well, the OTC Roman Reigns arrives and spears the crap out of Rollins then Superman Punches Heyman. Now again that would have been a killer ending to a great show. As Roman stands tall a spear from a gentleman in a hoodies lays out Reigns! It’s none other than former Intercontinental Champion Bron Breakker! Rollins and Breakker proceed to decimate Punk and Reigns to the enjoyment of Paul Heyman, as the kids say these days “Cinema” what a way to end a fantastic Raw After Mania! 

Another day and another five in the books. Friends let me know in the comments what you felt was your favorites moments from the Raw after WrestlleMania. As always keep it locked here at Love Wrestling for more amazing content from your favorite creators and we will see you next week for another Top 5! 

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Pluggo’s Top 5 of the Week: Wrestlemania 41 Edition

by Pluggo
written by Pluggo

What a weekend for the WWE – they went big for WrestleMania! The two-night event kicked off strong with Jey Uso winning gold! The crowd got their Yeet on and we were off to the races! There were plenty of moments throughout the weekend that could have made this list but I am a man of my word and stuck to just five. If I was going to do honorable mentions: Jade and Naomi rocked, the Sin City Street Fight was great, and a shout-out to Dirty Dom for getting his flowers and becoming your new Intercontinental Champion! Oh yeah and John Cena won his 17th World Championship but this is about things I like so let’s move on! However you looked at this weekend, I hope you found some things that you loved about the biggest show of the year! Here are my Top 5 from the weekend: 

A New Paul Heyman Guy!

That main event from Night 1 was an all-timer and sure, maybe there’s a little recency bias in there. From Seth Rollins coming out with a freaking flamethrower to CM Punk’s video package and entrance, the match itself was spectacular. It’s no secret these guys have amazing chemistry together and it showed the entirety of the Main Event. Then business picked up as Heyman was faced with a decision – does he throw that chair to Punk or Roman? Well, my dude threw it to Punk only to low blow him and make it seem like he’s aligned with his Tribal Chief. Then h hit Reigns with a low blow and helped Seth Rollins leave WrestleMania as the winner. A brand new Paul Heyman guy has risen. What a fantastic performance and finish to night 1. 

Jacob Fatu is Special!

There is just something so unique and different about your new United States champion. Everything about Jacob Fatu just hits differently. Fatu defeated LA Knight to become the New United States Champion and I think we are just scratching the surface of what Fatu brings to the table. His offensive move set is one of a kind and his mic work is one of a kind. Now that he’s out of the shadow of the Bloodline it’s going to be a super fun title reign for the Samoan Werewolf. 

Afterthought No More! 

What a way to kick off Night 2 of WrestleMania! This match was one that a lot of people felt was worthy of a main event spot. That said if you aren’t Main Eventing you should go on first and set the tone for the night and they did just that! It was a fast-paced, hard-hitting affair. It truly felt like Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair and Iyo Sky had a chip on their shoulder and were out to steal the show! in the end, the Genius Of The Sky retained her championship and ended the WrestleMania undefeated streak of Belair in the process. 

The Man Is Back!

Saturday ahead of Night 1, Bayley was laid out by a mystery attacker, which lead to Lyra Valkyria not having a partner for the Tag Team Title Match on Night 2. In stepped the returning Becky Lynch, who has been out for almost a year. Big Time Becks made the most of this return by capturing Tag Team Title Gold for the 2nd time with her countrywoman Valkyria. Becky Lynch is my favorite of the Four Horsewomen and having her back in the mix is fantastic. Sure, it came at the expense of Bayley getting on the Wrestlemania card, but I have a feeling that we are in for a wild summer as they tell that story now that The Man is back!

Say His Name and He Appears!

“Who’s going to face Randy Orton at Mania?” was a hot topic throughout the week as Kevin Owens. his original opponent, is out due to injury. We speculated everyone from Aleister Black, Miro to even GM Nick Aldis but ultimately they went with TNA World Champion Joe Hendry, who got a massive pop. The match itself was a bit of a squash but that perfect camera shot of the RKO was worth it all. Plus it felt like Randy was living his best life out there, just having fun and RKOing fools like he does best.

There you have it, friends. It was tough to land on just five things from a two-night extravaganza but that’s what stuck out to me the most. If you agree or disagree, let me know in the comment section. As always make sure you keep it locked in right here for more writing from your favorite Love Wrestling personalities! 

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Pluggo’s Top Five of the Week!

by Pluggo
written by Pluggo

Even when I’m down, the show must go on. I ask during this difficult time that you just bear with me. The difficult time, you may be wondering, is Para Lira are LPW Tag Team champions, which means I now have to listen to Berat Gorani run his mouth until they lose those championships. Thankfully there was a lot more good this past week in professional wrestling, so let’s get right into it! 

CM Punk is Officially a WrestleMania Main Eventer 

We found out this past Friday on Smackdown that finally CM Punk will get his first opportunity to star in the main event of the biggest show of the year. It’s the only thing CM Punk has wanted in his illustrious career that he has yet to accomplish. As a CM Punk guy, I couldn’t be more excited for him to cross this goal off his list. Now can the Second City Saint put the cherry on top and defeat both Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins? Here’s hoping! 

Double Duty for the Double Champ

I love the fact that Stephanie Vaquer, one week after winning the NXT Championship, is out here defending her North American Championship and the NXT Championship. She’s been presented as an absolute force in a women’s division that is widely considered one of the best in wrestling. 

Proceed With Caution

Holy smokes, this was easily the best promo of Naomi’s career. Those that love Naomi knew she had it in her. Those that didn’t believe, what do you have to say now? I know for me it would have been a crazy moment had we found out it was Bianca that attacked Jade Cargill. That said, if this is the Naomi we are getting as a product of her attacking Jade, then sign me up twice and I’ll happily shout it from the rooftops that I was wrong. Keep the foot on the gas with Naomi – that promo was special work and I need more! 

Swerve Strickland bodies Jon Moxley on the mic

No surprise to AEW fans that Swerve Strickland is that guy. He went toe to toe with the leader of the Death Riders Wednesday night and I think he came out on top. It was a great back and forth between Moxley and himself. Even Moxley himself put Strickland over in the segment, saying, “Seeing a guy like you makes me want to keep going and all my hard work in this business run by billionaires and YouTubers is not going to waste.” I’m still not sold on Swerve winning at Dynasty, though I think he should. It wouldn’t shock me if  Moxley held it until All In. 

LPW 35 Into The Void

Normally I try and stick to moments on these lists but I’m hard pressed to not sing the praises of the entire LPW 35 card. It was one of my favorite LPW shows of all time. We saw three title changes, an absolute classic in the other title match (MRB vs Miles DeVille), plus that ending. Zoe Sager, the Intangible Opportunist, may have lost her tag title to Para Lira to open, but she made damn sure she left with gold as she becomes a 2-time Grand Champion beating TY Jackson and Marz The Specialist. Not only that she set off a chain of events amongst the roster that now has the anticipation for LPW 36 at an all time high! Head to IWTV or Love Wrestling on YouTube to catch all the action. 

Another week another 5 in the books. We are just heating up to as the Road to WrestleMania continues and AEW Dynasty is next week. So keep it here and see what moments from the week that was stood out to me. As always, feel free to drop your favorites in the comments and keep it locked here for the latest from everyone at Love Wrestling. 

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Pluggo’s Top 5 of the Week.

by Pluggo
written by Pluggo

We are back baby! After taking a few much-needed weeks off to recharge my batteries, so to speak, I am happy to be back after it.  I picked quite the week to write about. From AEW Revolution, RAW at MSG and NXT Roadblock, I had plenty of options for this weeks Top 5 so let’s get right into it: 

Timeless Toni Storm vs Mariah Hollywood Ending Street Fight AEW Revolution

Mariah May and Toni have been nothing short of brilliant since they came together. This past Sunday at AEW Revolution was the Hollywood ending to the best storyline In the company, and it did not disappoint. How this was not the main event of the evening is beyond me – it was perfect. Storm & May left everything they had in that arena. Closing out the match with Toni Storm nuzzling up to a defeated and bloody Mariah May as the screen shows “The End” – we talk about cinema in wrestling all the time. This match set the standard for me. 

Kyle Fletcher vs Will Ospreay Steel Cage Match AEW Revolution 

This match was pure insanity and I loved it. I was on the edge of my set with every false finish. They upped the ante throughout the entirety of the match. The opening shot of both Fletcher and Ospreay standing on top of the cage was fantastic stuff. From there they proceeded to have one of the most brutal and intense matches in AEW history. Ultimately William Ospreay got the win, but in the end I think it was Kyle Fletcher who truly shined. Fletcher continues to add layers and layers to his rising star and he’s proving there isn’t any spot too big for him to succeed in. 

CM Punk vs Seth Rollins Steel Cage on RAW 

Two men who absolutely hate one another enter a steel cage. What’s not to love? Rollins and Punk’s well documented history made this a surefire can’t miss. They delivered. The match had it all: great wrestling, suspense building with every finish, the verbal back and forth mid-match. It was simple and effective. Then you add Roman Reigns returning and yanking Rollins out of the cage, which gave Rollins the win. That didn’t matter, as Reigns laid waste to Rollins then turned around to see Paul Heyman in the cage checking on Punk. Roman lost it and destroyed Punk to end the night. The road to WrestleMania is cooking with gas right now. 

Stephanie Vaquer Double Champ at NXT Roadblock

I admit, I was concerned it was too early for this match. Giulia and Vaquer are new to NXT and the Women’s North American Championship is brand new. So putting both titles on one of them, I had concerns. Well, throw my concerns out the window…for now. That match ruled and Stephanie Vaquer and Giulia have amazing chemistry, and I wish that Main Event would have gotten 10 more minutes. The WWE has a blue-chip no doubt superstar in Vaquer and I’m here for the ride. Now let’s hope she’s not going to just relinquish the NA like they have in the past and let her truly shine during what is already a historical reign. 

Speedball Mike Bailey Debuts on AEW Dynamite 

You love to see when good things happen to even better people. Speedball Mike Bailey has finally debuted in AEW after months of rumor and speculation. Speedball is easily one of the best wrestlers on the planet and him getting this opportunity on a big stage is fantastic. He won his match against the Beast Mortos and is one win away from a date with Kenny Omega for the International Championship. I can’t wait to see what Speedball will do in AEW! 

There you have it folks, another week another Top 5 in the books! Keep it locked in here for more writing from yours truly as well as all the other amazing contributors here at Love Wrestling! 

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Elimination Chamber Power Rankings

by Pluggo
written by Pluggo

For 12 superstars, the only thing standing between them and a guaranteed spot at WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas is the most unforgiving structure in professional wrestling, the Elimination Chamber. 

So per tradition I like to think of these matches in terms of a power rankings ahead of the actual matches March 1. I’ll breakdown both mens and women’s matches, ranking them from 6 to 1, which will act as my predictions on how each competitor will fare in Toronto. Ultimately #1 in each ranking will be my pick to win the opportunity to go to WrestleMania. 

Men’s Elimination Chamber

6 Damian Priest 

Talk about just how loaded this field is, that Priest, a former World Heavyweight Champion, is in the 6 spot. For Damian Priest, he’s still trying to figure his way back into the main event title picture since Finn Balor screwed him out of his championship against Gunther at SummerSlam. A win here would do that, but I just don’t see that happening.

5 Drew McIntyre 

Sure, Drew is doing some of his finest work over the last year, and a program with him and Cody Rhodes on the road to WrestleMania would be fun. The promo work alone would be top-notch. That said, there is something so fun about Drew getting screwed out of a big-time spot, and the man I’ve got at 4 will have a hand in just that. So, better luck next time Drew. 

4 Logan Paul 

The Maverick isn’t much of a fan favorite by any stretch, so a deep run in the Chamber could put a damper on the match. Now, could I see them having it come down to Logan Paul in the last two and making us the fans sweat out his ultimate elimination? Yes. That’s not what I am manifesting here, though. A solid showing where Paul is the 1st in and lasts awhile but he eliminates Drew and that spawns a program for them, is ultimately where my head’s at. Paul does have some issues with CM Punk now as well. Logan will have a massive target on his back Saturday, I think he prefers it that way. That doesn’t mean it’s a great strategy.

3 Seth Freakin Rollins 

This is tough for me to put Rollins here, as at some point he needs to get the leg up on CM Punk. Rollins has been spiraling ever since losing to Punk on the debut Raw on Netflix show, and I don’t see that stopping here. Rollins will have to find another way to Mania as well as figure out his Punk problem.

2 CM Punk 

How ironic that Punk’s last shot to reach the Main Event WrestleMania this year comes in the same year John Cena is on his farewell tour. Will Punk coming up just short once again cause him to take his ball and go home, as Seth Rollins brings up all the time? I don’t think so. It would be an epic way to end the Chamber match if it came down to Punk and Cena as the last two left and Cena somehow pulled out the upset. Talk about some long-term storytelling cinema.

1 John Cena

After coming up short at the Royal Rumble, finishing 2nd to Jey Uso, Cena declared he would be in the Chamber Match, knowing this is his last opportunity to be in the Main Event of WrestleMania. They wouldn’t possibly take this moment away would they? Rhodes vs Cena at Mania is an epic marquee match that we all want to see happen. So don’t get too cute on us, WWE – make the match happen. I’m here for a Cena win at Mania, then CM Punk, who was just slighted, challenges him at MITB for said championship. Tell me that wouldn’t rule! 

Women’s Elimination Chamber Match 

6 Naomi

Naomi always shows out in these opportunities, yet they rarely let Naomi win these high-profile chances. It’s unfortunate because she’s fantastic, but ultimately Naomi has other things on horizon, as I expect the return of Jade Cargill sooner than later. 

5 Bayley

The Role Model has been on a run as of late, appearing on seemingly every show and sprinkled in a NBA Celebrity All-Star Game appearance as well. It’s odd putting a future first-ballot Hall of Famer this low on a list for a championship, but a certain Prodigy has been giving Bayley a problem, which may cause her an early exit at the Chamber.

4 Alexa Bliss

Welcome back Alexa, you have been missed. Bliss returned at this year’s Royal Rumble, though she came up short in punching her ticket to the big dance. While Bliss and Rhea Ripley or Iyo Sky would be a fresh matchup for Mania, I don’t think we are quite ready to make that leap considering she has just returned. It feels like an opportunity to remind everyone just how good the “Five Feet of Furry” is.

3 Roxanne Perez

She will 100 percent eliminate Bayley from this match, thus furthering their storyline. I’d love to see Bayley and Roxanne Perez at WrestleMania. Coming off the heels of being the Iron Women of the Royal Rumble, I expect Perez to have another big showing as they look to continue to push her to the moon! 

2 Liv Morgan 

Half of the new Women’s Tag Team Champions has all that history with Rhea Ripley, so it would make sense for them to run it back one more time. I ultimately don’t think they will do that, as the Liv/Rhea fatigue is still there, for me at least. Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t hate their feud; it was just long, and I think it’s too quick to go back to the well. That said, I can’t rule it out as a real possibility. Everything is already built in.

1 Bianca Belair 

Losing the Tag Team Championships on Monday now frees up the EST for other things. Those “other things” of which I speak include giving us a a Women’s World Championship match at WrestleMania against Rhea Ripley. Who says no to that? It’s two of your greatest non Horsewomen talent on the roster. This would be a great way to showcase that the future is bright as ever in the women’s division! Plus you throw in their NXT history, and we are off to the races for what could be a very special match.

There it is folks, from six to one on both sides of the coin. I know on the women’s side I erred on the side of Rhea winning her championship match against Iyo Sky the day after Chamber. I’m going to just assume she retains. Honestly though, if Iyo does win, I don’t think I’d change much on the women’s side. Anyways, how did I do? Do you agree with my rankings? Let me know in the comments and as always keep it right here on Love Wrestling for more of my writings and much more! 

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NXT Vengeance Day Preview

by Pluggo
written by Pluggo

This Saturday Night at 6pm est is NXT Vengeance Day. The 1st stand alone PLE of the NXT calendar. This past Tuesday night debut of the “Absolute One” Ricky Starks has the intrigue for this PLE at a fever pitch. Will we see him get involved and make it known who he has his sights set on first in NXT? There is so much potential for Starks on this roster. Even tonight’s card could be telling for where Starks begins on the NXT Ladder. So let’s get into the card and breakdown it down match by match. 

NXT Championship Match: Oba Femi vs. Austin Theory vs. Grayson Waller

A-Town Down Under got the upper hand on Big Oba Femi this past Tuesday night. They had teased a possible split before taking out the NXT Champion. The only real question I have is when the going gets tough and that opportunity to win the NXT Championship, will Austin Theory and Grayson Waller be able to remain a team and allow one of them to dethrone Oba Femi. My guess is not a chance, the cracks in the A-Town Down Under foundation will grow bigger and Oba Femi will Retain with ease. 

Pick: Oba Femi Retains 

NXT Women’s Championship Match: Giulia vs. Bayley vs. Roxanne Perez vs. Cora Jade

The proof of just how successful NXT has been on the business is right here in this match. Bayley got her start in NXT and is now a sure fire Hall of Famer and one of the most decorated Superstars in the business. She’s going after 2nd NXT Championship. Against a group that would give anything to have the career Bayley has had. Cora Jade looks to finally be hitting her stride coming off a recent knee injury and earned her way into this match up with a win over Bayley this past Tuesday. That win came with an asterisk as Roxanne Perez has been a Thorne in Bayleys side for weeks, culminating in a Bayley Cosplay dissertation to help Cora win. Roxanne the former NXT Champion held down the division thus far in her career and looks destined for the Main Roster sooner than later but for now she looks to add to her already impressive NXT Championship resume. 

If you stopped right there, you’d say what a great triple threat match. Well, NXT Women’s Champion and international superstar Giulia is in the match up and with the odds stacked against her will look to retain the title she won off of Roxanne Perez at New Year Evil. I’d be surprised if they took the title off Giulia this early in her reign. That said the odds aren’t in her favor but if for just hypotheticals if I had to pick on to take it off Giulia, give me Bayley for the simple fact that it would eat at Roxanne Perez and further that storyline. 

Pick: Giulia 

NXT Women’s North American Championship Match: Fallon Henley vs. Stephanie Vaquer

Much like Giulia, NXT hit the jackpot with another international star. They have presented Vaquer so well thus far in her WWE career the only thing missing is some Gold. No disrespect to Fallon Henley or the the rest of her Fatal Influence Stable Mates but this is Vaquers moment in the sun. 

NXT Tag Team Championship Match: Fraxiom vs. Josh Briggs & Yoshiki Inamura

Fraxiom continues to Impress and level up with each title defense. Saturday night should be no different. Briggs continues to try and find himself after they spilt up of him and Jensen. Insert Yoshiki Inamura as his new running mate and you have yourself a very interesting dynamic. That’s will only get you so far against Fraxiom. Sure Biggs and Inamura looked impressive in there win to get here but they still have to work on that chemistry, that Fraxiom has mastered. This feels like a stop gap for Axiom and Fraser’s next program heading into Stand and Deliver, which could he see the much Speculated Hardy Boyz step to the NXT Tag Team Champions? 

Pick: Fraxiom Retains

Strap Match: Trick Williams vs. Eddy Thorpe

I love me a good old fashioned strap match. I did not however have Trick Williams and Eddie Thorpe on my list of must needed Strap Matches. Don’t get me wrong NXT has a great track record of putting on PLE matches that maybe didn’t belong there and it ends up being an absolute banger, so I’m not completely down on this match up. I’m just not that invested in it and it feels like an excuse to give Trick Williams something to do in the card, which is never a bad thing. 

Pick: Trick Williams 

Ethan Page vs. Je’Von Evans

If this match doesn’t end with Je’Von Evan’s proclaiming he beat Ethan Page with a “Broken Freakin Jaw”! Then what are we doing here? Evans got himself “Cleared” by a “Real Doctor” to have the match happened. I use air quotes here because that Dr. on Tuesday looked like he runs his practice out of a storage unit. Either way Ava requested Evan’s sign a waiver and the match is being unsanctioned so Ethan Page can lose and no harm is done to his standing but maybe some damnit his Ego and we get another match from these two. 

Pick: Je’Von Evans

There you have it, all my picks and thoughts ahead of Saturday’s Vengeance Day! What matches are you most excited about and who do you think will stand out the most? Also will Ricky Starks involve himself in the action? Let me know in the comments! 

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Pluggo’s Top Five of the Week

by Pluggo
written by Pluggo

Those who know me know I love me some Notre Dame football and would gladly talk about the fact the we are going to the ‘ship after beating Penn State in the College Football Playoff semifinals Thursday night, but I won’t. I promise not to mention that all the haters said we don’t belong or can’t hang with teams who play in conferences. This is a wrestling website so I will not do that, either. I definitely won’t gush over how much this team has grown up before our eyes this season and are one win away from a national championship. Don’t worry, I’m not going to go there. 

Instead let’s travel through the week that was. – and boy, it was a big one – and talk about the five things that stood out to me: 

Kenny Omega is Back! 

The Cleaner made his in-ring return at Wrestle Kingdom against Gabe Kidd. Sure we can debate if this was the right spot for Omega to return, but you should just let their match speak for itself. A match of the year contender a week into the year isn’t a bad way to return. Then on Wednesday, Dynamite Kenny announced he’s cleared to compete in AEW and will be taking on Brian Cage next week. I for one can’t wait for what 2025 has in store for Omega. The wrestling world is a far better place with Kenny Omega wrestling in it. 

Giulia Wins NXT Womens Championship!

The Beautiful Madness finally reached the top of the NXT Mountain Tuesday night, beating Roxanne Perez and ending her historic title reign. Giulia is a fantastic choice to dethrone Roxanne. I was very high on the idea that Giulia should have beaten Perez on the CW NXT debut episode but I’m more than ok with them waiting a few months to pull the trigger. Now one has to wonder what’s next for Giulia, as the NXTWomens roster is absolutely loaded. 

RAW Is Netflix!

I honestly could have just made my top 5 this entire show, but what would have been the fun in that? The WWE debuted RAW Jan. 6 on Netflix in a big way. From the opening segment about the history of WWE, The Rock, John Cena and Undertaker all making appearances, to CM Punk standing tall at the end, it was a home run. Mami is back on top, Cena is Rumble-bound and Travis Scott sparked up during Jey Usos entrance. This show had it all! Plus the endless parade of celebrities in attendance topped by none other than Topanga and that other guy….IYKYK. 

All in all a great way to start off this new era of WWE programming. 

Ethan Page Meets The Rock!

The Rock took his talents to NXT and had some really fun moments throughout the night. None more fun than his interaction with All Ego Ethan Page while talking to Ava backstage about his recent transgressions aka Je’Von Evan’s Jaw. The Rock appears and lets age know he may be the Final Boss but around NXT Ava and if he wants them to be cool, he’d better not mess with her. 

Very cool moment for Page, I’d have to imagine. All Ego held his own and looked like he belonged in that spot. Side note: if that doesn’t show just how high the WWE is on Page I don’t know what does. I mean, hell, on RAW the night The Rock had segments Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes and we all know how they are doing amongst the hierarchy of the WWE. So looks like the sky is the limit for All Ego.

AJ Francis vs BDE at Revolver!

Wrestling Revolver VYBE Check took place this past Thursday and AJ Francis FMA Top Dolla took on BDE, who is most known for his content creation. Sure, I know what you’re thinking. A gimmick match against a YouTuber? Let me finish, AJ Francis has been on a run as of late. Most of you associate him with his run in WWE and how it ended. That all said Francis has refined himself and is putting on some great stuff. Also shoutout to BDE, who came up short but put up a great fight. 

First my guy MuscleMan Malcom and now BDE, which content creator is next? I will officially take my hat out of the ring Mr. Francis, sir. 

Honorable Mention

Harley Cameron, who just makes me laugh every time she’s on my TV screen and Wednesday night was no different. The Hot Girl Graps line popped me. She’s not leaning into “being hot” in a distasteful way, it’s a clever and very smart way. HarleyCameron and Mariah May play so well off each other. Plus I think Harley would appreciate the Honorable Mention spot more than just some random number!

Another week down and another Top 5 in the books. Tune in next week for my latest top 5. Wrestling is showing no signs of slowing down and either will I. Until next week, bye!!!

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Get To Know: Eli Surge

by Pluggo
written by Pluggo

We are back baby, and what better way to be back and in full swing than having the opportunity to Get To Know your LPW Scramble Champion Eli Surge? Henry took some time away from his rock outside of Skywalker Ranch to sit down and discuss his start in the business, what his favorite match of his career has been, what to expect when you catch the man in the tinfoil hat live, and much more! So let’s waste no more time and Get To Know the man who believes birds aren’t real – your LPW Scramble Champion Eli Surge: 

At what moment did you realize you wanted to be in the wrestling business? 

Wrestling was something I always loved, whether it was shared outwardly or I watched in secret. I think it was a podcast that made me realize that there were schools I could go to. That information, with a background in acting and having played nearly every sport growing up, made me feel I could take a shot. 

How did you get started in wrestling?

I looked at it for years before jumping in. With the encouragement of my now-wife, I signed up and moved to Calgary… Alberta Canada to train with Lance Storm. 

Who would you say is your biggest influence in wrestling?

You’ll probably notice through this that I have a hard time choosing a definite one in any category. My biggest influence could change day to day and what area I’m looking. 

I would probably have a different answer for character, gear, facials, movement, fan Interaction & social media. 

I also try to draw a lot of my influence from outside of wrestling. I look at people like Bobo from Finding Bigfoot, various political and cult leaders, and how people interact on interesting topics in real life vs. online/in media.

It’s hard to just have one favorite wrestler. Who is on your Mount Rushmore of wrestling? 

If I’m picking a top 4 favorites, it’s CM Punk, Edge/Adam Copeland, Eddie Guerrero & Dolph Ziggler/Nic Nemeth.

If we’re looking at 4 that built/build the business it’s Sammartino, McMahon, HHH and Cody.

Who is currently your favorite wrestler?

Brody King. 

I’ve been a fan for years. I met him at the Harley Race camp in 2017 and saw he had something different then. Since then he’s had some of my favorite matches, including against Adam Copeland in a street fight that I got to see live. 

What one match of yours that you are most proud of? 

I’m my own worst critic, so I’d pick one based on my opponents. Anything with Travis Williams, Judas Icarus or Elliott Tyler I’d say to check out. To give one match, I might say myself & Sasquatch vs “Top Dog” Franklin Myer & a Hotdog at Mystery Wrestling.  

Who would you want to face in your dream match? 

If I’m looking at everyone in wrestling, I’d bring up names such as Soberano Jr., Danhausen, Kyle O’Reilly, El Generico, Brody King, Randy Orton & Adam Copeland as people in the running; however, the one dream would be CM Punk.

Who’s that up-and-coming wrestler no one is talking about but should be?

There are MANY, but if I’m looking west I’d keep my eyes on Maxwell Benson and Casey Ferreira.

Looking east it’s Ahmed & Abu of KPK and Matty Z. 

What advice do you have for anyone thinking about getting into wrestling? 

There’s space for everyone in wrestling. Sometimes that space is the front row. Assess your whys, set your goals and think about what you expect to put in vs. get out of the business. There’s no problem being a weekend warrior, but don’t stand in the way of people trying to go further.

Favorite venue you have performed in?

Washington Hall in Seattle. There’s an electricity there that builds between fans and performs that is unexplainable without being there. 

Notable Runner-Ups:

Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver 

West Edmonton Mall, Edmonton 

White Eagle Polish Hall, Victoria 

Nat Bailey Stadium, Vancouver  

What’s your pre-match routine or superstitions? 

The only thing that I absolutely have to do before every match is make tinfoil hats. Everything else can move around. If it’s a big match I might even do a jumping jack!

I’m sure the car rides are long so what’s on your playlist? 

If I’m on my own I’ve got podcasts playing. Escaping Denver, Sasquatch Chronicles, Flightless Bird & Talk’n Shop are regular choices. I’ve been privileged enough to do a lot of flying in the last couple years and the airport setup always includes my Switch and trusty neck pillow.

What food spot are you hitting up while on the road? What are you ordering? 

Show day, I aim for a late breakfast and a 3 p.m. meal. Ideally it’s high volume and protein. After the show it’s whatever’s open and on the way. 

What do you say to the people who say wrestling is fake? 

Exactly! I put on Spandex and get thrown around by oiled up, half-naked men!”

If the way they introduce their knowledge to the business is that manner, I often know that they don’t share my appreciation. Normally if I take the route of less seriousness they’ll let their walls down and they actually become more interested then. 

What is the one thing you would change about the wrestling business? 

Boy, there’s a list. 

Not having to fight for fair pay or hunt down promoters for pay they agreed upon, paid ring crew, make sure there’s water in every locker room, feed the crew (even if it’s just a veggie tray), less brother-brother attitudes, less weekend enthusiasts trying to hold back those who want to go beyond that. No company should be telling workers they can’t work for other companies unless they’re offering a true livable wage. No more companies trying to pull shady moves and acting surprised when they’re called on it, etc. 

Like I said, there’s a list.

If you weren’t in the wrestling business what would you be doing?

Full-time trophy husband.

When it’s time to hang them up, what do you hope people will say about your wrestling career? 

He made me feel.

What are some of the challenges you’ve encountered as the LPW Scramble Champion? How do you prepare for such a match type? 

A scramble match is like a strategic reality television show. 

You need to look for alliances while preparing to be stabbed in the back with a smile. You can enter with the most well-thought-out game plan that has to be scrapped as soon as the bell rings, because your opponents came with unexpected alliances or strategies. 

I think the best way to think of it is “You can’t change the wind, but you can set your sails.”

What can the fans expect when they come out and see you live in person? 

Expect unfortunate amounts of tinfoil, to chant Birds Aren’t Real, and if you’re lucky: a Bigfoot sighting.

There you have it folks! Another great conversation with one of the best out there today! I can’t thank Eli Surge enough for his time, I know he’s been busy hanging with Bigfoot and reading up on the latest conspiracy theories out there. Make sure you take the time to follow him across all his social media accounts @RealEliSurge. Also, as always, make sure you catch him doing what his does best when Eli comes to a town near you. Last but not least make sure you keep your eyes out for the next Get To Know Spotlight highlighting the very best across the independent wrestling scene

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ARTomic Drop | An Electrifying Birthday

by Zak Ralph
written by Zak Ralph

Cover Art | card__toons

Passion inside the ring inspires passion on page. Here at Love Wrestling, we curate some of the best fan art we can find every week. Take a look at this week’s gallery and meet your new favourite artists.

Celebrating The Great One

Maybe he’s best known for his ventures in Hollywood these days, but Dwayne Johnson will always be The Rock to us – and with how the man continues to treat his fans, it seems he wouldn’t have it any other way. Mr. The Rock turned 49 this past weekend, and there was lots of love pouring in from fans, art style!

Justin Maas on Instagram and Twitter
Karl Davies on Instagram and Twitter
card__toons on Instagram
mdshukran on Instagram

It’s only natural that the only dude who ever made the name “Dwayne” sound cool gets treated to the finest gallery. Cheers to The Rock!

And of course, cheers to the artists – both above and below. Enjoy the rest of this week’s gallery.

jon on Twitter and Instagram
Dan Buksa on Twitter and Instagram
Sam Evans on Instagram
craftwithe on Instagram
Fowl Original on Instagram and Twitter

About NFTs

Due to the environmental damage and vulnerability they impose on artists, ARTomic Drop takes a firm stance against NFTs. Please inform me if I have failed to properly vet out stolen or harmful work. I can be contacted at zak@lovewrestling.ca

On the environmental damage of NFTs via everestpipkin.medium.com

About ARTomic Drop

All fan art is curated with permission from the artists. If you are the artist of any of these pieces and have changed your mind or believe we have had a misunderstanding regarding permission, please inform us and we will have it removed.

If you’d like to have some of your wrestling fan art featured, send me an email or at me on Twitter to call my attention to your latest work!

Catch even more brilliant fan artists with previous editions of ARTomic Drop!

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