In our latest WWE rumor roundup, we have news on what’s in store for CM Punk, Black Monroe, Roman Reigns, and more, along with an update on a potential next wave of talent releases.
We’re days away from Backlash taking place, and we have another rumor roundup to tide you over before the PLE. Today’s edition brings updates on WWE Superstars like LA Knight, CM Punk, and Blake Monroe, along with more on those recent releases.
There’s also news on WWE’s place on ESPN, Aleister Black’s supposed AEW return, and what’s really going on with Roman Reigns amid speculation that he’s clashed with TKO executives over his contract.
You can check out this latest batch of WWE rumors below, but be warned of potential spoilers…
- According to SEScoops, former WWE Superstar Aleister Black—also known as Malakai Black in AEW—is in active negotiations for an AEW return. Other outlets have cast doubt on the claim, pointing to issues the former NXT Champion had in the company (reportedly refusing to lose, for example) during his previous run.
- NXT Superstar Blake Monroe is set to make her main roster debut on SmackDown by the end of this month, reveals PWInsider.
- During last Friday’s SmackDown, Gunther returned and put Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes to sleep. Bodyslam.net has learned that original creative plans called for the Austrian to have a short feud with LA Knight. As of now, it’s unclear what’s planned for the Megastar.
- CM Punk is also not factored into current storylines, as he’s not currently expected to be at Backlash this weekend. That’s despite speculation that the Second City Saint will be Danhausen’s mystery partner, explains Self Made Pro.
- The same site has also learned that WWE is still “trying to figure out how to format shows on ESPN Unlimited,” and that the product will continue to be showcased on ESPN TV because subscriptions are still lower than anticipated. This isn’t hugely surprising when fans need access to that, Netflix, the USA Network, and The CW to watch all WWE content.
- Much has been said about why WWE pulled Roman Reigns from its June show, but PW Insider puts it down to a simple clerical error. There are no deeper issues, so theories that the OTC is parting ways with the company are incorrect.
- According to Dave Meltzer, more WWE releases are likely. “I am told that cuts are done. I don’t know if we know every name, but every name has been told. So if someone was told and did not go on social media or they did not remove the name from the website yet, it is possible a name or two could still come up, but they have all been done for now.”
- It seems SmackDown‘s move from three hours to two is indeed a major issue, as TKO pushed WWE to cut costs now that the show is permanently going back to being shorter (which means less advertising revenue).