Latest news with #NightTwo
Newsweek
04-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Top WWE Star Pushed For Shocking Brock Lesnar Return
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Following Brock Lesnar's shocking and controversial return at SummerSlam, WWE's Chief Content Officer Triple H has addressed the decision to bring him back. At the post-show, Triple H heavily implied that the return was specifically requested by John Cena for his farewell tour. Lesnar made his stunning return after the main event of Night Two, brutally attacking John Cena after his loss to Cody Rhodes. It was Lesnar's first appearance in a WWE arena in nearly two years. At the media scrum following the event, Triple H was asked about the decision to bring Brock Lesnar back. He framed the move as being part of John Cena's "last chapter." "This is John Cena's wishlist, it's him writing the last chapter of his book," Triple H stated. "It's about John being able to go out the way he wants to go out, to write his chapter." These comments suggest that a final, violent feud with his legendary rival was something Cena personally wanted for his 2025 retirement tour. Nixed Brock Lesnar Plans Brock Lesnar's return is a highly controversial one. "The Beast Incarnate" had been absent from all WWE programming since January 2024. He was pulled from the Royal Rumble that year and a WrestleMania match with GUNTHER. More news: WWE Superstar Announces Retirement Match That loyalty appears to extend to his on-screen rivals as well. He and Lesnar have a long and storied history in the ring. Brock Lesnar throws John Cena during the WWE 2025 SummerSlam at MetLife Stadium on August 03, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Brock Lesnar throws John Cena during the WWE 2025 SummerSlam at MetLife Stadium on August 03, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. A Legendary John Cena Rivalry Reignited The feud between the two icons has spanned multiple eras and has always delivered physicality and drama. The feud between John Cena and Brock Lesnar is one of the most violent and memorable of the modern era. It began with Lesnar's 2012 return to WWE, leading to a brutal classic at Extreme Rules. The most infamous chapter of their rivalry occurred at SummerSlam in 2014. By this point, Lesnar had conquered The Undertaker's undefeated streak at WrestleMania and was an unstoppable "Beast Incarnate." He challenged the then-champion, John Cena, in what was expected to be a competitive main event. What transpired was one of the most one-sided and shocking demolitions in WWE history. Lesnar dominated Cena from bell to bell, delivering 16 German suplexes and leaving the seemingly invincible "Super Cena" utterly broken to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. The match forever changed the perception of both men. While Cena would get a disqualification win in their rematch at Night of Champions, the damage had been done. This new program, set to be a major part of Cena's farewell tour, will serve as the epic final chapter to their historic feud. More WWE News: For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
Newsweek
04-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
WWE Went To Extreme Lengths For Brock Lesnar's Secret Return
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Brock Lesnar's shocking return at the conclusion of SummerSlam was a masterfully kept secret. A new report from Fightful has revealed the extreme and elaborate lengths WWE went to in order to hide "The Beast Incarnate" and preserve the surprise for his attack on John Cena. The stunning return came after the main event of Night Two on Sunday, August 3rd. Cody Rhodes defeated John Cena in a brutal Street Fight to capture the Undisputed WWE Championship. How WWE Kept The Return A Secret According to the report, WWE's plan to hide Lesnar was a covert operation. It is believed that Lesnar was flown privately into Teterboro airport in New Jersey on Saturday, a smaller airport that would attract less attention. He was then "hid throughout the day" to avoid being seen by anyone. The plans for the post-match angle were also kept on a strict need-to-know basis. Many of WWE's own writers and producers were not told about the finish or Lesnar's involvement. The report notes that the intense secrecy had many backstage speculating that a surprise was coming, but most believed it would be The Rock, not Lesnar. The company also canceled its traditional post-show press conferences for the weekend, a move that is now seen as part of the strategy to prevent any leaks. EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - AUGUST 03: Brock Lesnar celebrates after slamming John Cena during the WWE 2025 SummerSlam at MetLife Stadium on August 03, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - AUGUST 03: Brock Lesnar celebrates after slamming John Cena during the WWE 2025 SummerSlam at MetLife Stadium on August 03, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Beast vs. The Champ: A Violent History Brock Lesnar's return to target John Cena immediately reignites one of the most violent and iconic rivalries of the modern era. The two first clashed upon Lesnar's return to WWE in 2012, in a legendary, brutal match at Extreme Rules that saw Cena score a shocking upset. Their most infamous encounter, however, took place at SummerSlam in 2014. In a shocking and dominant performance, Lesnar completely demolished Cena, delivering 16 suplexes in a one-sided beatdown to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. That match solidified Lesnar's "Beast Incarnate" persona. This new program, set to be a major part of Cena's 2025 farewell tour, will serve as the epic rubber match to their historic feud. A Shocking End To SummerSlam Last night's main event saw Cody Rhodes finally "finish the story" for a second time, defeating the vicious heel John Cena to win back his championship. However, the celebration was cut short by the sound of Brock Lesnar's music. "The Beast" stormed the ring and, after a brief staredown with the new champion, turned his attention to the defeated Cena, hoisting him up and laying him out with a thunderous F-5 to close the show.
Newsweek
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
7 WWE Superstars Who Should Win Money in the Bank
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Money in the Bank is WWE's next major Premium Live Event (PLE), and its flagship match offers massive opportunities for two lucky Superstars. Not only does this give them an opportunity to win a world title, it could also mean that they become the person who dethrones Cena's record-breaking 17th championship reign. More Pro Wrestling: Recently Released Superstar Working With WWE Again So let's take a look at the wrestlers who should be the ones to raise the briefcase over their heads in June. PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 07: Damian Priest cashes in the Money in the Bank briefcase during Night Two at Lincoln Financial Field on April 07, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 07: Damian Priest cashes in the Money in the Bank briefcase during Night Two at Lincoln Financial Field on April 07, 2024 in Philadelphia, Green Sadly, Chelsea Green no longer has the Women's United States Championship, having recently dropped it to Zelina Vega. While this could be seen as a negative, there is actually massive upside for Green: she can now go for a world title. Given her persona and the likely assistance of the Secret Hervice, there is no doubt that Green could make a meal of having the Money in the Bank briefcase. Sami Zayn Sami Zayn will always be wildly over with the crowd due to his constant underdog status and his unbelievable likability. Despite this, one thing has always eluded Zayn: a world championship. With the briefcase, Zayn can immediately put himself in the main event scene and give himself the major boost he needs to overcome that final milestone. Roxanne Perez Roxanne Perez remains one of the most exciting new talents on the main roster. And she more than proved that she is ready for the main event with her performance at the Royal Rumble. Perez firmly established herself as a star in NXT, having won the NXT Women's Championship twice. Now, she could do the same by winning Women's Money in the Bank. Drew McIntyre Even though Drew McIntyre won the Men's Money in the Bank match last year, he was unable to cash in and lost the briefcase in a single day. Since he is on a redemption tour this year, attacking everyone who has wronged him, it would only make sense for McIntyre to win the ladder match again, but this time be more patient and successful with his cash-in. Plus, this could give him a more satisfying title run than his previous two. Rhea Ripley Rhea Ripley remains one of the most dominant WWE Superstars on the roster, having won multiple world titles as well as the Women's Royal Rumble. It seems that all is missing is the Money in the Bank briefcase. Ripley would be excellent with the briefcase, likely utilizing it in menacing fashion rather than being sneaky. Nothing would be scarier to a champion than when she showed up ringside and cashed in with pomp and circumstance. Dominik Mysterio Dominik Mysterio may be a heel right now, but the massive reaction he received at WrestleMania 41 when he won the Intercontinental Championship shows that this may not be the case for long. Even if he were to make a face turn, his character likely wouldn't change, meaning he could still perform a sneaky cash-in. Plus, if Ripley were to also win, the photos of them together would be hilarious. Naomi Naomi has been on a tear, proving why she is one of the most underrated and valuable members of the WWE roster. She more than deserves her flowers for her excellent work recently, and the Money in the Bank briefcase is the way to get there. Additionally, this would be a great way to introduce Jade Cargill to the main event scene given the two's history. More Pro Wrestling: Released WWE Superstar Set For In-Ring Return WWE Legend Jake 'The Snake' Roberts Undergoes Surgery For more WWE and professional wrestling news, head on over to Newsweek Sports.
Time of India
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
CM Punk sets sights on WrestleMania night two main event after RAW absence
Image via WWE CM Punk may have fulfilled a lifelong dream by main eventing WrestleMania 41, but the WWE veteran has now set his sights on an even bigger prize - closing Night Two of the biggest wrestling event of the year. Despite recently being off WWE television, Punk made it clear during a recent Instagram Live that he's not done making headlines inside the squared circle. Will CM Punk feature in WrestleMania 42? After years of waiting, Punk finally featured in the main event of WrestleMania 41 - competing in a triple-threat clash alongside Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins. While the match itself was widely praised, it ended in betrayal and chaos. Paul Heyman shockingly turned on both Punk and Reigns, helping Rollins pick up a controversial win. Although the performance marked a milestone in Punk's storied career, fans online quickly reignited the debate over what constitutes a 'real' WrestleMania main event. Night Two traditionally holds the Undisputed WWE Championship bout, and this year, it was headlined by Cody Rhodes vs John Cena . Punk responded to critics with his trademark sarcasm, saying: 'Sure, I do. Gotta hit night two for all those people that move the goalposts, you know.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Your Finger Shape Says a Lot About Your Personality, Read Now Tips and Tricks Undo RAW absence raises eyebrows Punk has been absent from WWE TV since he and Reigns were taken out by Rollins and newcomer Bron Breakker during the RAW episode following WrestleMania. With the 2025 Backlash Premium Live Event just around the corner, fans expected him to return this week - but Punk has confirmed otherwise. 'Brother, I had one week off. I need more,' he said on Instagram, suggesting that he's still recovering from the post-WrestleMania assault. While WWE has not officially announced an injury, insiders believe Punk is 'selling' the attack to enhance the storyline. With WrestleMania 42 scheduled for April 2026 in New Orleans, CM Punk has ample time to position himself as the headline act for Night Two. His popularity remains strong, and his recent in-ring performances have proven that he's still a top draw. Whether it's redemption against Rollins or another shocking twist in his rivalry with Paul Heyman, Punk's path forward is likely to be full of drama. But one thing is clear, the Second City Saint isn't ready to fade out. He's gunning for the ultimate WrestleMania spotlight, and this time, he wants it on Sunday night.
Newsweek
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
The Rock Responds To WWE WrestleMania Critics
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Another day means another reason for The Rock to make noise and be in the headlines. The only problem is that it's for all the wrong reasons. Earlier this week, The Rock appeared on The Pat McAfee Show to provide his perspective on the events of WWE WrestleMania 41, which saw John Cena defeat Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship in the main event of Night Two. The build-up to WrestleMania was significantly shaped by The Rock's return to WWE television in the lead-up to Elimination Chamber, where he confronted Rhodes with a cryptic proposition regarding his "soul." Ultimately, at Elimination Chamber, Rhodes declined The Rock's offer. The pivotal moment of the event saw Cena execute a shocking heel turn, betraying Rhodes and aligning himself with The Rock, thus establishing the main event for WrestleMania 41 with Cena challenging for the Undisputed WWE Championship. Notably, The Rock was absent from WWE television in the weeks preceding WrestleMania 41 and did not make an appearance at the event itself. He revealed that his involvement began with a call from TKO CEO Ari Emanuel approximately one month before Elimination Chamber, seeking his participation to generate excitement for the event. PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 07: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and John Cena fight during Night Two at Lincoln Financial Field on April 07, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 07: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and John Cena fight during Night Two at Lincoln Financial Field on April 07, 2024 in Philadelphia, on the strategic decision behind Cena's heel turn, The Rock disclosed that Triple H, WWE's Chief Content Officer, originated the idea. The Rock explained he intended to craft a compelling narrative to draw significant viewership to Elimination Chamber and lay the groundwork for a high-stakes WrestleMania main event. More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation Once Cena's heel turn and the subsequent Undisputed WWE Championship match against Rhodes were firmly established, The Rock felt his immediate purpose in the storyline was fulfilled, allowing the focus to shift to the dynamic between the champion and the challenger. Following his appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, The Rock directly addressed criticism from Sirius XM's Busted Open Radio host Dave LaGreca regarding his absence from WrestleMania. In a social media response, The Rock wrote: "Hi Dave, the business is a complete work. Always has been, always will be. Every aspect of it. Every match. Every interview. Please join me, Cody, Cena, Brian and the rest of us for our creative discussions so you can expand your perspective. Until then, stop ranting, it's not healthy my friend. Enjoy the show. P.S., tell Bubba I have Grand Marnier and hush puppies for all of us." The Rock responded to a video on Busted Open Radio's Instagram page of Dave LaGreca's rant about his comments the Pat McAfee show This man is spiraling… — Public Enemies Podcast (@PublicEnemiesHQ) April 24, 2025 The Rock's response defends the nature of professional wrestling as a planned spectacle, but also spotlights the lack of awareness that he has of the situation. In no way, shape or form, does what he said make sense to WWE fans, and they've made that clear. More WWE News: For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
