Latest news with #post-WWE
Newsweek
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Released WWE Star Set For In-Ring 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. Just weeks after her WWE release, Jakara Jackson, now wrestling under the name Mara Sadè, has her first significant post-WWE match announced, and it's a world championship opportunity. On Wednesday, Jersey Championship Wrestling (JCW) revealed that Sadè will challenge Masha Slamovich for the JCW World Championship at their July 6th event in Asbury Park, New Jersey, provided Slamovich is still the champion by then. Jackson was released from her WWE contract on May 2, 2025. Shortly after the news broke, she took to social media with a determined video message, making it clear she intends to continue and make a significant impact in her wrestling career. "Do I wish that I could have shown the world what I can do on my own? Hell yes," Sadè stated in the video. "And the way I see it, I'm still going to get that opportunity, just in a different way." Initially indicating she would be known as Miss Jackson, she has since updated her social media profiles to reflect her new ring name, Mara Sadè. More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation Jackson signed with WWE in early 2021 as part of a Performance Center recruitment class. She primarily competed on NXT Level Up. She was later prominently featured on NXT television as part of the Meta-Four faction, alongside Oro Mensah, Noam Dar, and Lash Legend, often serving as a valet and occasional competitor. COLOGNE, GERMANY - NOVEMBER 07: A WWE Logo at the WWE Live Tryout at the Motorworld on November 7, 2018 in Cologne, Germany. COLOGNE, GERMANY - NOVEMBER 07: A WWE Logo at the WWE Live Tryout at the Motorworld on November 7, 2018 in Cologne, moments included her participation in the NXT Women's Championship #1 Contender's Battle Royal in July 2023 and the NXT Women's Breakout Tournament in October 2023. In a case of showing off WWE's then-growing openness to inter-promotional appearances, her most recent televised match before her WWE release actually occurred at TNA Rebellion in April 2025. *JCW BIRTHDAY UPDATE* *JCW World Title Match* MASHA SLAMOVICH (if still champ) vs MARA SADE (fka Jakara Jackson) Plus: Tremont vs Mad Dog Get Tix: Sun 7/6 - 5PM Asbury Park NJ The House of Independents — Jersey Championship Wrestling (@JerseyCW) May 28, 2025 This is where she teamed with her Meta-Four stablemate Lash Legend in a four-way tag team match for the TNA Knockouts Tag Team Championship, which was ultimately won by Heather By Elegance and Ash By Elegance. This upcoming JCW World Championship match against a renowned talent like Masha Slamovich provides Mara Sadè with an immediate high-profile platform to showcase her abilities as she starts on this new chapter of her career. It appears that she plans to continue wrestling on a full-time basis. More WWE News: For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
Newsweek
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Released WWE Superstar Reveals New Ring Name
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. In a move following her departure from WWE, a recently released talent has unveiled a new persona as she prepares to navigate the independent wrestling circuit. This development comes on the heels of a substantial wave of releases earlier this month, which saw seventeen performers exit the company, eleven of whom were part of the NXT brand, signaling a shift in WWE's talent roster. Among those released from NXT was Jakara Jackson, whose contract was terminated alongside her former Meta-Four stablemate, Oro Mensah. Jackson, however, quickly made it clear that her journey in professional wrestling was far from over, and the 30-year-old has now taken a concrete step in shaping her post-WWE career by adopting a new ring name. Jackson's tenure with WWE began when she signed a developmental contract and reported to the WWE Performance Center. During her time in NXT, Jackson made appearances on NXT's weekly television show and NXT Level Up. Her most prominent role came as a member of the Meta-Four stable, a faction that also included Oro Mensah, Noam Dar, and Lash Legend. More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation Transitioning to her new identity, Jackson has updated her Twitter profile, changing her name from Jakara Jackson to Mara Sadè. This signals a fresh start and a new chapter for the performer as she steps into the broader world of professional wrestling beyond the WWE umbrella. She is looking to replace her existing Twitter banner, which still features her old ring name, with one that reflects her new identity as Mara Sadè. She posted a direct request to her audience, writing: STAMFORD, CONNECTICUT - JANUARY 28: A WWE logo shines from the WWE world headquarters on January 28, 2024 in Stamford, Connecticut. WWE founder Vince McMahon resigned from the WWE and its parent company TKO as... STAMFORD, CONNECTICUT - JANUARY 28: A WWE logo shines from the WWE world headquarters on January 28, 2024 in Stamford, Connecticut. WWE founder Vince McMahon resigned from the WWE and its parent company TKO as executive chairman and board of directors following allegations of sexual assault in a Connecticut lawsuit. A former employee Janel Grant accused McMahon, 78, of sexual assault and sexually trafficking her. More "Hey gang! Can yall make me a badass profile banner?" The wrestler clearly intends to hit the ground running and is fostering a collaborative relationship with her supporters as she embarks on this new phase of her career. Released WWE star Jakara Jackson has rebranded to Mara Sadè on socials ahead of her free agency — WrestleTalk (@WrestleTalk_TV) May 15, 2025 The departures impacted both the main roster, including names like Braun Strowman and Shayna Baszler, and NXT, with talents such as Cora Jade and Gigi Dolin also being let go. It's important to note that the specific circumstances surrounding each individual's departure, such as a release or contract non-renewal, can differ. It will be interesting to see where she ends up. More WWE News: For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
Newsweek
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Released WWE Superstar Set For In-Ring 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. Former WWE Superstar Shotzi is returning to the squared circle, with Major League Wrestling (MLW) strongly hinting at her arrival for their upcoming "Summer of the Beasts" event. This comes shortly after news of Shotzi's confirmed departure from WWE became public earlier this month. The tease occurred during a recent MLW Azteca Lucha broadcast, where a compelling vignette aired to promote the "Summer of the Beasts" event. The show is scheduled for June 26, 2025, and will emanate from the Melrose Ballroom in New York City. The promotional video clearly indicated Shotzi's impending MLW debut. Alongside striking visuals that included a tank graphic synonymous with her persona, on-screen text declared: "June 26. Hearts Turn Black. The Warning SHOTZ Will Be Fired." This announcement aligns perfectly with Shotzi's recent statements to her fanbase. Following the news of her WWE contract not being renewed, she had assured her supporters that they would indeed "be seeing her soon." Shotzi's WWE tenure is set to conclude, with reports in early May 2025 confirming that the company would not renew her contract. Her full free agency is anticipated to commence in July 2025. Her scheduled MLW appearance on June 26 thus marks one of her first prominent announced bookings in the post-WWE landscape. This move signals Major League Wrestling's keen interest in quickly featuring the popular and energetic performer. Shotzi cultivated a strong connection with fans during her WWE run. Her unique presentation and fearless in-ring style made her a memorable standout. COLOGNE, GERMANY - NOVEMBER 07: A WWE Logo at the WWE Live Tryout at the Motorworld on November 7, 2018 in Cologne, Germany. COLOGNE, GERMANY - NOVEMBER 07: A WWE Logo at the WWE Live Tryout at the Motorworld on November 7, 2018 in Cologne, Germany. More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation During her time with WWE, primarily in the NXT brand, Shotzi achieved notable success. She memorably held the NXT Women's Tag Team Championship alongside Ember Moon, showcasing her tag team prowess. She later transitioned to the main roster, appearing on SmackDown, where she was involved in several storylines, including a notable feud with Damage CTRL. Her unique character always promised an element of unpredictability. Wrestling enthusiasts will undoubtedly be eager to see Shotzi "ride again" and unleash her distinctive style within the MLW environment. The prospect of new matchups and creative directions is sure to generate excitement. This MLW debut offers Shotzi a significant platform to embark on a new chapter and make an immediate statement. For MLW, her arrival brings added star power and considerable buzz to their women's division and the "Summer of the Beasts" supercard. More WWE News: For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Cal Bloom (Von Wagner) Appears As An Extra On AEW Dynamite
Photo Credit: AEW Former NXT star Von Wagner briefly appeared as an extra on AEW Dynamite. WWE released Von Wagner, real name Cal Bloom, in April 2024. He was absent from the wrestling world, for the most part, until he had his first post-WWE match at a Midwest All-Star Wrestling event on March 15th. There, he faced Shay Diesel. During the March 26th episode of AEW Dynamite, Bloom appeared as a security guard during a brawl between Mark Davis and Powerhouse Hobbs. While he was just on TV for a moment, fans online were quick to spot him, and they took to social media to highlight his appearance. Cal, the son of Wayne Bloom, had a prominent push in the early stages of the NXT 2.0 era. Wagner had a brief run in a team with Kyle O'Reilly. He was eventually paired up with Mr. Stone during his NXT run. Advertisement READ MORE: AEW Dynamite Results: Review, Grades, Card For March 26 The post Cal Bloom (Von Wagner) Appears As An Extra On AEW Dynamite appeared first on Wrestlezone.
Yahoo
09-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Did WWE Just Give Away the WrestleMania 41 Result? John Cena's Schedule Raise Eyebrows
John Cena's post-WWE WrestleMania 41 schedule has sparked speculation among fans. The 16-time World Heavyweight Champion is set to challenge Cody Rhodes for the WWE Undisputed Championship at WrestleMania 41. Cena earned his title shot by winning the Men's Elimination Chamber match. He stunned fans by turning heel and attacking Rhodes. Before the assault, The Rock offered Rhodes a chance to become his personal champion and give his soul to The Final Boss. Cody Rhodes refused, and John Cena initially seemed to support his decision, even hugging him. However, after a signal from The Rock, Cena suddenly attacked Rhodes with a low blow. This marks his first heel turn in 20 years and delivers one of the most shocking moments in WWE history. After turning heel, John Cena, The Rock, and Travis Scott brutally attacked Cody Rhodes, leaving him bloodied in the ring. Reports suggest that Travis Scott slapped Rhodes during the attack, causing an injury. Despite this, Rhodes is set to appear on the upcoming edition of WWE SmackDown. Meanwhile, Cena is scheduled to appear on WWE RAW on March 17, 24, and 31 in Brussels, Glasgow, and London. However, WWE recently advertised Cena for SmackDown in May and June, long after WrestleMania 41, which takes place on April 19 and 20 in Las Vegas. This unexpected booking has led fans to question whether Cena will dethrone Rhodes and become the new WWE Undisputed Champion at WrestleMania 41. WWE recently shared an update on John Cena's schedule after WrestleMania 41. He is currently advertised for SmackDown on May 30 in Knoxville, Tennessee, June 13 in Lexington, Kentucky, and June 20 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Since John Cena is a part-time star due to his Hollywood commitments, his post-WrestleMania bookings have sparked speculation. With WWE advertising him for SmackDown in May and June, many now question whether Cena will walk out of Las Vegas as the new WWE Undisputed Champion in April. Only time will tell what happens next. The post Did WWE Just Give Away the WrestleMania 41 Result? John Cena's Schedule Raise Eyebrows appeared first on - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
