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India Today
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
CM Punk, Rhea Ripley keep it Unreal: WWE stars on Netflix docuseries, Cena and more
When you look at CM Punk and Rhea Ripley, it is easy to figure out why they're two of the most beloved superstars in WWE right now. The journey does seem a lot different, yet similar in many ways for both stars within the company. Both are big-money draws, fan favourites, the best in the world when it comes to working in the ring, and their characters just seem to connect with the audience on both superstars are heading to SummerSlam 2025 as No.1 contenders—with Punk taking on Gunther for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship while Ripley takes on champion Naomi and Iyo Sky for the Women's World Heavyweight what happens outside the ring when Punk becomes Phil Brooks and Ripley is Demi Bennett? Well, both of them are affectionate dog parents—that's something everyone would love seeing. But apart from that, the fans would be eager to know how both superstars are like outside the ring. And WWE's new docuseries with Netflix, WWE: Unreal, kind of gives us a sneak peek into it. From a look at your favourite superstars to seeing how each match is produced, it is a proper breaking of kayfabe if you're a WWE fan and the five-part docuseries will be available from July 29. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NetflixSports (@netflixsports) Well, that was something CM Punk wasn't quite ready for, as he and Ripley had an exclusive chat with India Today regarding the documentary—and a little bit about wrestling as well."I still don't know how comfortable I am with all of it. Even just sitting here talking with you, saying the word kayfabe makes my skin kind of crawl. But it's a brave new world. I think once you break through all of that, what the Unreal documentary series is going to do is, it's gonna humanise us a little bit more," said there's good reason as well. Wrestling for a long time has been all about the character and gimmicks the superstars play and not breaking kayfabe. But for Punk, he feels this is a chance for the younger generation to see the human side of the wrestlers and draw inspiration to deal with some of the issues like anxiety."They see CM Punk when they turn on Netflix and watch Monday Night Raw. I think backstage, you're gonna see a little bit more Phil. And I don't know how I feel about that, to be completely honest with you. I think there's definitely a big part of me that still wants to keep a lot of this protected and private and in a way just for us, but I recognise, in a lot of ways, the importance for people to see what we go through."advertisement"I know we talk a lot about like anxiety issues, and I just think of, you know, like maybe a little girl who has it pretty tough, and then sees Rhea and sees how Rhea is reacting in real time to how she deals with her anxiety and stuff like that. And I think that can give, a number of little girls, a way out of whatever they're dealing with. And to me, that's more important than me trying to protect the business," said Netflix experienceThe deal with Netflix has certainly changed the fan experience when it comes to WWE. The feel is getting bigger and better, leading to the global wrestling juggernaut bringing in more viewers. But what has been the experience for the Superstars?Ripley feels it has been wild since WWE started their partnership with Netflix and feels it has been beneficial for everyone involved. She says it's good to have new eyes come in."It's been wild. I feel like the publicity that WWE has gotten just from partnering with Netflix has been so beneficial for not only the company but all of us. To see the amount of people that have started watching WWE just because we are on Netflix. It's obviously easier, it's right there, a lot of people just go, I don't know, I've never checked it out, so they just click on it, they watch it. It's just like welcoming new people in and it is just awesome to me. I love when new eyes start watching the product and you hear the excitement that they get by watching it first off, and I love this partnership," said Punk, he feels that Netflix has made them more accessible worldwide than how it was with cable and network television over the past few decades."Yeah, I think WWE wrestling has been on cable and network television for 30–40 years. So you, as a superstar, almost take it for granted. Like this is as big as it's gonna get, and then Netflix comes around and you realise like, oh, this is getting so much bigger and now it's like so much more global and areas that couldn't access us before."advertisement"I think India might be a pretty big market. Everybody's got Netflix on their phones, so I feel like we are now even somehow more accessible, and more available to people worldwide, and that's very exciting," said CenaverseAfter the talk about the documentary and Netflix was done, it was time to get into some of the wrestling action and rivalries for both superstars. When it comes to Punk, probably his biggest rivalry was with the legendary John Cena. From the infamous pipebomb promo to Punk's win at Money In The Bank in 2011, Cena has been a vital presence in the Second City Saint's career over the men ran it back once again at Night Of Champions 2025, where Cena got the win, and Triple H confirmed after the event that the rivalry was done. Punk commented on his iconic rivalry and confirmed that it was indeed the last time he would face Cena inside a WWE ring, with the 17-time World Champion heading for retirement at the end of the year. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WWE (@wwe)advertisementPunk said he had pulled up Cena and told him that he wanted to be a part of the Cenation leader's retirement tour and was willing to do whatever was necessary."Night Of Champions was a really important night for me personally and professionally and emotionally. Yeah, that's it (on Cena rivalry). John to me has written his own ticket. John can do whatever he wants. I told him, I think it was a year ago, I saw him for the first time in a while, and he announced in Toronto he was gonna retire and he was gonna do X amount of dates."And I immediately I grabbed him and I said, 'hey I don't know if I figure into your plans, whatever you want to do, but man, I'm your Huckleberry. To me, selfishly, I wanna be a part of it. So, you want me on commentary for one of your matches, you want me to be a referee, I'll drive you to the shows, buddy, like, whatever it takes to get me to be a small part of your story because he was such a big part of mine. And yeah, that was it," said former WWE Champion finds his rivalry with Cena more like a romantic novel."Like, there's something romantic and poetic about it, the John Cena and CM Punk rivalry. There's a beginning, there's a middle, and now there's an end, and that's life," said for Ripley, she is kind of like a young CM Punk in the women's division currently. For her, she has had some big rivalries as well—with the current one with Iyo Sky capturing the imagination of the fans. They delivered a clinic at the main event of WWE Evolution 2, and the question was simple:Is Iyo Sky the John Cena to Ripley's CM Punk? View this post on Instagram A post shared by WWE (@wwe)The former World Champion said she has had a few "Cenas" along the way in her career, name-dropping Bianca Belair as one, but said that Iyo does fill that spot. Ripley said that in terms of story and connection, she can see shades of the famous Cena–Punk rivalry in hers with Iyo."I never thought of it like that. It's hard because I feel like I have a couple John Cenas in my career. I feel like Bianca Belair is a John Cena as well, but I mean Iyo Sky fills that spot, for sure. She's someone that, I've gone through a lot with in this business, and every step of the way, she's had my number, she's been able to pin me every single time or win somehow. And I think that is the only way that I say she's not John Cena, because, I would have beat her by now if I was CM Punk. But, like story-wise and connection-wise, I would say she would be on that same level," said AJ Lee return?One question that has continued to follow Punk since his WWE return has been if his real-life wife and former WWE Divas Champion, AJ Lee, will follow in his footsteps. There were rumours and suggestions that Evolution 2 would be the stage for her return, but Lee just didn't followed the same trend as everyone else and asked if we would ever see Lee return to a WWE ring. Punk said that while he doesn't make that call for his wife, selfishly, he would love to see her come back to WWE—but only if she is interested in it."I don't know (laughs). I love my wife. She's my best friend. It's not 100 percent up to me. So I always say this, selfishly, if it was up to me, if I made the decisions for her, and trust me, I do not. I would love to see it. But also, if this isn't something she's interested in, if it doesn't serve her anymore, more power to her.""She's very busy. She's very brilliant. She's doing a great many things. It's not even like a ball's in her court sort of thing. It's just like, I was gone from WWE for 10 years, and it wasn't for the lack of trying to get me back."Punk feels that time will be an important factor if Lee returns and pointed to his own comeback to the company as an example."It's just stuff didn't line up, like I was busy doing other stuff, and the timing wasn't right. I think timing is probably a really important factor in the decision, not saying there's anything even going on. I am just talking in circles now. Huge AJ Lee fan, would love to see her back, but also, love and respect everything she's already done, like she's got a Hall of Fame career already," said Ripley is surely eager to have Lee back in WWE. The Nightmare said she would love to face her—but more than that, just be present when the return does happen to hear the reaction from the crowd."Yeah, if she were to come back, I would love to face her. I think stepping in the ring with AJ would just be incredible. I honestly just want to be in the ring to hear the reaction.""To hear the reaction from the fans and everyone in attendance as she does her entrance. It's something so special and like it doesn't even have to be a full match, I just want to be a part of whatever she's a part of. I want to be there on the day that she comes back. If that ever happens, I think it'd be awesome, I'd be down," said just like that, we saw a bit of Phil Brooks and Demi Bennett—even when discussing their wrestling careers. While kayfabe might be a thing sacred in the business, Punk and Ripley decided to keep it real, rather Unreal.- Ends
NDTV
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
CM Punk Accuses Vince McMahon For Sabotaging His WWE Return, Years Before Comeback At Survivor Series 2023
CM Punk has revealed that Vince McMahon, the former chairman of the WWE, sabotaged his return to the company, years before he made a momentous came back at Survivor Series 2023. Punk, who will be challenging Gunther for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at Summerslam in New Jersey next month, recalled that he had a secret meeting with McMahon and Triple H, the current chief operating officer of the WWE around 2018 or 2019, to discuss a potential WWE return. Punk went on to add that they had an "handshake agreement" for the same and how it didn't work out, also accusing McMahon on "ghosting" him. The former WWE champion also revealed that McMahon was personally calling him to cut out the middleman, having initially communicated with him through his agents. "We had a meeting and we had a handshake agreement and then he ghosted me. So, that's why it didn't happen. Unbelievable," Punk was quoted as saying by Fightful. Punk also revealed how the meeting help him and Triple H bury the hatchet over their ever-so-volatile relatioship over the years. "That would have been probably the first time that me and Triple H probably started chipping it away at any problems or drama that we had in the past," he said. "That was the first instance." Punk had left WWE after Royal Rumble 2014 due to a fallout with the management, accusing them of ignoring his serious health issues. His departure from WWE led to a bitter rift that lasted for years, before both the parties made up to give his return a green light in 2023. He made his return to the WWE, appearing after the mainevent Men's WarGames match in his hometown Chicago. Punk appeared post-match after Cody Rhodes, Seth "Freakin" Rollins, Jey Uso, Sami Zayn, and Randy Orton defeated The Judgment Day (Damian Priest, Finn Balor, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio, and JD McDonagh) and Drew McIntyre. However, this led to a strong reaction from Rollins, who didn't seem happy with Punk coming back to the WWE, paving the way for an ongoing storyline.
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
What's Going on With Cardi B and WWE 'SummerSlam 2025?'
What's Going on With Cardi B and WWE 'SummerSlam 2025?' originally appeared on Athlon Sports. One initial plan for WWE "SummerSlam 2025" might be up in the air. The stars of WWE are set to perform at MetLife Stadium for a two-night PLE. The annual event has several marquee matches booked. An undisputed WWE Championship rematch between John Cena and Cody Rhodes figures to receive top billing on night two. There will also be a WWE World Heavyweight Championship match between titleholder Gunther and CM Punk. When WWE first announced the venue for "SummerSlam, the company also revealed that music star Cardi B will serve as the guest host for the weekend. In recent weeks, no mention has been made of the popular rapper's appearance at the show. Fightful reached out to WWE in an attempt to get clarification on Cardi B's status for "SummerSlam," but the outlet hasn't heard back. Cardi B has long expressed her desire to be a part of a WWE show, so it came as little surprise that she was penciled in to host a PLE. The question now is, have plans changed since the initial announcement? "SummerSlam" will be taking place on Aug. 2 and 3. In addition to the aforementioned world title matches, the women's division of both "Raw" and "SmackDown" will have its top prizes at stake. After successfully cashing in her MITB briefcase at the conclusion of "Evolution," WWE Women's World Champion Naomi will defend her gold against Iyo Sky and Rhea Ripley in a triple threat match. WWE Women's Champion Tiffany Stratton also knows who her next challenger will be. Queen of the Ring winner Jade Cargill will step up to challenge "Tiffy Time." The winner won't have to worry about a post-match story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
NBC Sports
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- NBC Sports
How to watch WWE Saturday Night's Main Event: TV/stream info, match card, preview, Goldberg vs. Gunther
Does WWE Hall of Famer Goldberg have one more world championship run left in him? We're about to find out. Goldberg will challenge 'The Ring General' Gunther for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in the newest edition of WWE Saturday Night's Main Event on Saturday, July 12. And the setting is appropriate, as the spectacle will emanate LIVE from Atlanta, Georgia. How to watch WWE Saturday Night's Main Event on NBC and Peacock Date: Saturday, July 12 Time: 8 p.m. ET TV: NBC Streaming: Peacock Location: State Farm Arena - Atlanta, Georgia Goldberg's ties to Georgia and the Atlanta area are well known. The 58-year-old played football at the University of Georgia and later appeared in 14 games for the Atlanta Falcons during his NFL career. He also famously won his first-ever world championship by defeating 'Hollywood' Hulk Hogan at the Georgia Dome during an episode of WCW Monday Nitro on July 6, 1998. That's almost exactly 26 years ago. Can Goldberg make pro wrestling magic in Atlanta one last time? The rivalry between Goldberg and Gunther began in earnest last October at WWE Bad Blood, which also took place in Atlanta. Gunther mocked Goldberg and his son, Gage, which led to the wrestling legend jumping the barricade for a confrontation. After Gunther reclaimed the world heavyweight championship from Jey Uso last month, Goldberg confronted him yet again, this time telling him that he's 'next.' GOLDBERG is BACK on #WWERaw! Goldberg hasn't wrestled a match in WWE since February of 2022 against Roman Reigns, so he'll enter this bout as the underdog in what could be his retirement match. Win or lose, it will be a must-watch affair. Goosebumps for GOLDBERG! 😤 WWE Saturday Night's Main Event full match card* Gunther (c) vs. Goldberg - World Heavyweight Championship LA Knight vs. Seth Rollins Randy Orton vs. Drew McIntyre *Card subject to change WWE Network, including WWE Saturday Night's Main Event and all Premium Live Events, is available in the United States exclusively on Peacock Premium for $7.99/month. Details available at
Time of India
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
WWE Hall of Famer slams TKO over Roman Reigns, Jey Uso treatment
Image via WWE W WE legend Rikishi has launched a scathing attack on the company's creative direction, accusing them of disrespecting his family's legacy - especially Roman Reigns and Jey Uso. The outspoken Hall of Famer voiced his frustrations on his Off The Top podcast, addressing recent decisions that he believes undermine the contributions of The Bloodline. From rumors of a pay cut for Reigns to Jey Uso's short-lived title reign, Rikishi believes WWE is making a 'big mistake' in how it's treating members of the Anoa'i dynasty - a family widely regarded as the greatest in pro wrestling history. Rikishi defends The Bloodline's legacy Rikishi's outrage was sparked by rumors suggesting WWE and its parent company, TKO, are considering reducing Roman Reigns' salary during his current break from TV. For Rikishi, such talk is deeply disrespectful, considering the impact Reigns has had on WWE's success in recent years. Standing On Business!- Rikishi Fatu - Off The Top - Episode 63 'Do the math - WrestleMania, Raw, SmackDown - who's on those posters? Roman Reigns. Jey Uso. Trinity Fatu. That's the Bloodline,' Rikishi said. 'You want to move on, fine. But don't erase our history. We've given our soul to this business.' He added, 'We've never been the problem, we've always been the source. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Memperdagangkan CFD Emas dengan salah satu spread terendah? IC Markets Mendaftar Undo Past, present, future - we are this industry. Give us our flowers. We're taking it either way.' Short title reign fuels frustration The controversy escalated after Jey Uso lost his WWE World Heavyweight Championship to Gunther on the June 9 episode of RAW, just 51 days after winning it at WrestleMania 41. Fans were upset, and so was Rikishi. AND NEW! | Gunther dethrones Jey Uso for World Heavyweight Title: Raw highlights, June 9, 2025 He criticized WWE's writers for failing to support Jey's title run, saying they should be 'fired' for not being able to build around a rising champion. 'Would you have done this to John Cena or Randy Orton?' Rikishi asked. 'You give the title, and then give them nothing to work with? That's not fair.' Rikishi also pointed to past instances, like Jey's short Intercontinental Title reign - to show a pattern of what he calls missed opportunities for his son. He believes Jey's rise was earned through hard work, fan support, and years of dedication. With WWE seemingly moving in a new direction, questions loom over the future of The Bloodline. Fans and family alike are watching closely. Rikishi's fiery comments have ignited public debate, and it remains to be seen whether WWE will course-correct - or keep sidelining one of its most iconic families. Also Read: Ron Killings vs. John Cena heats up again - What's next for this WWE rivalry?
