Category: AEW

  • AEW Pay-Per-Views Officially Coming to HBO Max, Starting with All Out

    AEW Pay-Per-Views Officially Coming to HBO Max, Starting with All Out

    AEW's Kenny Omega and Kazuchika Okada
    photo by Brian Damon for TheStunner

    In a significant development for professional wrestling fans, All Elite Wrestling and its broadcast partner Warner Bros. Discovery have taken their successful relationship to the next level. This latest announcement solidifies the promotion’s integral place within the WBD family of brands, reshaping how fans will watch the company’s biggest shows going forward.

    The landmark agreement confirms that AEW‘s popular pay-per-view events will now be available to stream live in the United States directly on HBO Max. This exciting new era for viewers will kick off with the highly anticipated All Out event.

    A New Era for AEW Pay-Per-Views

    The first event to stream under this new arrangement will be AEW All Out, broadcasting live from the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada, on Saturday, September 20.

    In a significant benefit for existing subscribers, the event will be offered at an exclusive, discounted price of $39.99 for those who subscribe to HBO Max. This provides a ten-dollar savings compared to the standard $49.99 price on other platforms. Pre-orders for All Out are set to begin this Friday, September 5.

    Enhanced Viewing and Special Content

    This new deal promises an enhanced viewing experience for the AEW faithful. The pay-per-views on HBO Max will be presented in high-quality HDR10 and will feature immersive Dolby Atmos sound, bringing the in-arena atmosphere directly to viewers at home. Following the live broadcast, fans who purchased the event will have exclusive access to replays for six months.

    https://x.com/AEWonTV/status/1963278496312037628

    To build excitement for the inaugural HBO Max broadcast, special programming is scheduled. A one-hour live pre-show, AEW Saturday Tailgate Brawl: All Out, will air on both TNT and HBO Max at 2 p.m. ET leading into the main card. Additionally, a special three-hour event titled September to Remember will air live from London, Ontario, on Wednesday, September 17, on TBS and HBO Max, setting the final stage for the big event.

    What This Means for Fans

    This move deepens the already strong relationship between AEW and its broadcast partner, Warner Bros. Discovery. It consolidates AEW‘s premium content onto a single platform, as its weekly flagship shows, Dynamite and Collision, already simulcast live on HBO Max. For fans in the United States, this creates a more centralized and cost-effective way to enjoy all of AEW‘s action.

  • Office Space Star Stephen Root Reacts to Paul Walter Hauser’s Bloody ROH Match

    Office Space Star Stephen Root Reacts to Paul Walter Hauser’s Bloody ROH Match

     Office Space Star Stephen Root's Reaction to Paul Walter Hauser's Bloody ROH Match
    photos: Ring of Honor
    Just a few days ago, we highlighted the incredible hardcore match that actor Paul Walter Hauser had at a recent Ring of Honor taping. The star of films and series like Richard Jewell and Black Bird went through a table in a wild brawl that had fans buzzing. It turns out, some of his famous friends were in the audience to witness the carnage firsthand and were left both terrified and thrilled by the experience.

    Stephen Root and Wayne Duvall Give Their Ringside Review

    Ring of Honor cameras caught up with acclaimed actors Stephen Root (Office Space, Barry, Dodgeball) and Wayne Duvall (Lincoln, The Righteous Gemstones) backstage after the event. The two were there to support their friend, Paul Walter Hauser, and they revealed this was the very first live professional wrestling event they had ever attended.

    Here is what the two celebrated actors had to say about the experience:

    Wayne Duvall: “What an amazing match.”

    Stephen Root: “For Paul W. Hauser, come on!”

    Wayne Duvall: “Oh my God.”

    Stephen Root: “You scared me, come on!”

    Wayne Duvall: “I was so worried about my man.”

    Stephen Root: “Yeah.”

    Wayne Duvall: “Oh my God.”

    Stephen Root: “No, no, when we saw him go down on that table it was unbelievable. The whole show’s been incredibly fun to watch.”

    Wayne Duvall: “Yes.”

    Stephen Root: “It was our first wrestling match we’ve ever seen, and we’re really happy we came to this venue to see it.”

    Wayne Duvall: “And it was so well done. I was so worried about Paul. I was so worried about him, and he’s okay. But it was fantastic. Great fun. Fantastic. Loved the venue, loved everything about it. Thanks so much.”

    https://x.com/ringofhonor/status/1962541718156251267

    It is clear that Hauser‘s performance left a lasting impression on his friends. Their genuine concern mixed with their excitement for the show highlights the incredible spectacle that professional wrestling can be, especially when it is your first time seeing it live.

    A Look Back at the Carnage

    The match that had Root and Duvall so concerned was a “Fight Without Honor” between Paul Walter Hauser and veteran wrestler QT Marshall at the ROH Death Before Dishonor event in Philadelphia. The rivalry had been brewing for months, with Marshall dismissing Hauser as a celebrity playing wrestler. Hauser, a lifelong fan who has been training and competing on the independent circuit, was determined to prove him wrong. The match was a brutal affair, with Hauser absorbing a tremendous amount of punishment.

    He was powerbombed onto a pile of thumbtacks and, in the spot that had his friends so worried, was sent crashing through a table covered in broken glass. Despite his valiant and bloody effort, Hauser ultimately fell short, with Marshall picking up the victory. The Philadelphia crowd, known for their appreciation of hardcore wrestling, gave Hauser a “You’re a wrestler” chant for his incredible performance.

  • Jeff Jarrett Details Taylor Swift’s 3-Hour Private Concert for His Family

    Jeff Jarrett Details Taylor Swift’s 3-Hour Private Concert for His Family

    Jeff Jarrett talks about his relationship to Taylor Swift and congratulates her on her engagement to Travis Kelce
    photo: TMZ / Travis Kelce & Taylor Swift

    It’s a story that seems almost too good to be true, the intersection of country music royalty and wrestling royalty. We’ve previously covered the heartwarming story of how a teenage Taylor Swift helped Jeff Jarrett and his family during one of the most difficult times in their lives, a bond formed in their shared hometown of Hendersonville, Tennessee, long before she became a global superstar.

    Now, with the recent news of Swift’s engagement to Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce, the story has found new life. Jarrett has been making the media rounds, sharing more incredible details about their unique connection and shedding more light on the kindness she showed his family when they needed it most.

    An Impromptu Concert

    Speaking with TMZ, Jarrett shared a remarkable story that took place in December 2006. His first wife, Jill, was very ill with breast cancer, and it was a tough holiday season for their family. A friend of the then-rising local star suggested that Swift should visit Jarrett’s daughters, who were big fans.

    What started as a simple visit quickly turned into something magical. Jarrett recalled, “She came over and didn’t bring her guitar in, but she actually ran back home that day because the girls wanted her to sing and play.” As word spread that Taylor Swift was at the Jarrett home, friends and family started to arrive.

    What was meant to be a short visit to cheer up his daughters became a full-blown private concert. “By the end of the afternoon, Taylor played about three hours,” Jarrett said. “It ended up probably in our great room… There was probably 35, 40, 45” people who had gathered to watch the impromptu performance.

    A Sweet Gesture and a Lasting Bond

    The kindness didn’t stop with the music. Jarrett also fondly remembered Swift’s simple, kind gestures, like taking his daughters to her house to bake cookies. “I can assure you, a Taylor Swift cookie… she can cook, and she definitely… can bake a mean chocolate chip cookie,” he said. The connection between the two families has endured over the years, with one of Jarrett’s daughters, Jaclyn, even being cast as a younger version of Swift in the music video for her song “Mine.”

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    An Open Invitation to AEW

    With all the buzz around Swift’s engagement to Travis Kelce, Jarrett couldn’t resist extending a professional invitation. He praised both Travis and his brother, Jason Kelce, as natural “showmen at heart.” Looking ahead to when the NFL star decides to hang up his cleats, Jarrett made a public offer.

    “I would love for Kelce to step on into an AEW ring… The door will be open at AEW,” he stated, before adding a playful warning for the football player. “I got a guitar shot for Travis.”

    While it remains to be seen if Kelce will ever trade the gridiron for the squared circle, the story of Taylor Swift’s kindness to the Jarrett family continues to be a touching tale of generosity and friendship.

  • Emmy Winner Paul Walter Hauser Slammed Through Thumbtacks, Glass at Ring of Honor Debut

    Emmy Winner Paul Walter Hauser Slammed Through Thumbtacks, Glass at Ring of Honor Debut

    Emmy Winner Paul Walter Hauser
    photo: Ring of Honor

    Hollywood star Paul Walter Hauser is no stranger to the spotlight, having appeared in movies like The Fantastic 4: First Steps, The Naked Gun, Richard Jewell. Last night at Ring of Honor’s Death Before Dishonor, he stepped into a different kind of arena. The Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor faced off against QT Marshall in a brutal “Fight Without Honor,” a match that left both men battered, bruised, and bloody.

    The rivalry between Hauser and Marshall reached a boiling point in recent weeks, with Marshall questioning Hauser’s place in the world of professional wrestling. The “Fight Without Honor” stipulation meant that anything was legal, and both men took full advantage of the rulebook being thrown out the window.

    https://x.com/KXNGDMCA/status/1961607983877468224

    The match was a chaotic affair from the opening bell. It wasn’t long, however, before the weapons came into play. Tables, ladders, chairs, and even a barbed wire baseball bat were all used to inflict punishment. At one point, Hauser even used his Golden Globe trophy as a weapon, smashing it over Marshall’s head.

    https://x.com/AewDefender/status/1961610778466807845

    The violence escalated as the match wore on. Both men were busted open, and the ring became a warzone of broken glass and thumbtacks. In a shocking moment, Hook made a surprise appearance to even the odds after Marshall’s associate, Aaron Solo, interfered. Hauser, in a display of incredible toughness, sent Marshall crashing through a table with a “Paul Driver” from the ring apron.

    https://x.com/ringofhonor/status/1961609655844487247

    Despite Hauser’s valiant effort, it was Marshall who ultimately emerged victorious. After a grueling battle, Marshall hit his signature Diamond Cutter on Hauser through a table covered in thumbtacks for the pinfall victory.

    https://x.com/YouAllWrite/status/1961663343426748676

    In a post-match media scrum, Hauser revealed that he had requested the match be as violent as it was. “I said to QT [Marshall] and I said to Tony [Khan] and all the folks backstage who I texted with… I said to them, ‘Please do not go soft on me.’ If I get hit with a kendo stick, hit me. If we’re doing thumbtacks, let’s do thumbtacks. And I want to give everybody the pound of flesh and give everybody the show they deserve, whatever that looks like.”

    While he may not have gotten the win, Paul Walter Hauser certainly earned the respect of the Ring of Honor locker room and the fans in attendance. The crowd showered him with chants of “You’re a wrestler” as he made his way to the back, a testament to the heart and determination he showed in the ring. No word on if his friend Chris Pratt hyped him up this time.

    You can watch the entire match below…

  • All the Wrestling References on Westside Gunn’s New Album ‘Heels Have Eyes 2’

    All the Wrestling References on Westside Gunn’s New Album ‘Heels Have Eyes 2’

    New Westside Gunn album
    photo: Vevo / Westside Gunn

    Buffalo rapper and wrestling aficionado Westside Gunn has dropped his latest project today, Heels Have Eyes 2, and it is absolutely overflowing with nods to the world of professional wrestling. From the album’s title and cover art to individual track names and lyrical content, Gunn continues to seamlessly blend the cultures of hip-hop and the squared circle.

    The Cover, Title, and a Million Dollar Connection

    Even before you press play, the wrestling references are front and center. The album’s title, Heels Have Eyes 2, is a direct callback to the wrestling term “heel,” used to describe a villainous character. The cover art continues the theme established by its predecessor, featuring the late Virgil. This is a direct sequel to the cover of the first Heels Have Eyes, which featured his former associate, “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase. On both covers, the artists are seen holding a modified version of the iconic Million Dollar Belt.

    A Track-by-Track Breakdown

    The references don’t stop at the cover. Several tracks are dedicated to or contain clever lines about wrestling figures past and present.

    The track “Heel Cena” is an obvious nod to John Cena‘s shocking heel turn that took the wrestling world by storm earlier this year. Gunn drops bars like, “White bricks, sniffed it one time, turned to Heel Cena,” and later references another icon with, “Spot Hogan leg drop, quarter block, bet not (Woo).”

    AEW gets a major shout-out with the song “Power House Hobbs,” named directly after the dominant star Will “Powerhouse” Hobbs. The lyrics within the track also pay homage to other modern stars, with lines such as, “The bag flip like Will Ospreay,” and the hard-hitting bar, “Desert Eagle so big, I nicknamed it Power House Hobbs (Woah).”

    Gunn also dips into wrestling’s past with the track “Brickolai Volkoff,” a clever play on the name of the legendary 1980s WWE villain, Nikolai Volkoff. Another track, “BLOW HENDRY,” features a fantastic sample of a viral news clip where a Buffalo reporter for WKBW asks Hulk Hogan to cut a promo on his boss to help him get a raise. On “GLOWREALAH,” he even gives a shout-out to his own wrestling venture, Fourth Rope.

    A Genuine Passion

    Westside Gunn‘s love for professional wrestling is well-documented. He is featured on the entrance theme of AEW’s Hurt Syndicate. He performed Daniel Garcia’s theme live. He is frequently seen in the front row at major events for WWE, AEW, TNA, and various independent promotions. His passion culminated in the creation of his own league, Fourth Rope, which aims to merge the worlds of hip-hop and wrestling. This album serves as yet another powerful testament to his deep-rooted appreciation for the sport.

  • Details on Hook’s New Theme and Action Bronson Backstage Heat

    Details on Hook’s New Theme and Action Bronson Backstage Heat

    AEW star Hook has a new theme
    photo: AEW

    With Hook debuting a new entrance theme on AEW Dynamite, many fans are only now realizing the “Cold-Hearted Handsome Devil” has been competing without music for months. AEW was incredibly sly in its presentation, often having Hook attack opponents from behind or walk out with a partner, masking the absence of his popular theme, “The Chairman’s Intent” by Action Bronson. Now that a new song has arrived, the story behind the quiet disappearance of his old one is coming to light.

    As reported by Fightful Select, the switch from Action Bronson‘s track was not a simple licensing issue but was also tied to some backstage controversy. The report notes that Bronson made some critical remarks about the AEW environment last year, which did not go over well with many within the company. This ultimately led to the decision to find a new sound for Hook.

    The rights to “The Chairman’s Intent” officially expired in January. Astute fans may have noticed that around this time, AEW began using creative ways to get Hook on screen, often having him attack opponents from behind or accompany others to the ring, cleverly masking the absence of an entrance theme while they worked on a replacement.

    A New Era and a New Sound

    On a recent episode of AEW Dynamite, Hook made his entrance to a brand new theme: ‘So Tell The Girls That I Am Back In Town’ by . The moody and atmospheric track provides a distinctly different vibe from his previous hard-hitting hip-hop anthem, signaling a new chapter for the second-generation star.

    Who is Jay-Jay Johanson?

    For those unfamiliar with the artist, Jay-Jay Johanson (born Jäje Folke Andreas Johansson) is a Swedish singer-songwriter who first emerged on the music scene in the mid-1990s. Known for his melancholic and distinctive vocals, his music is often described as a blend of trip-hop, synth-pop, and jazz with a cinematic, film noir quality. He has released over a dozen studio albums and has cultivated a dedicated following, particularly in Europe.

    The Popularity of the Track

    ‘So Tell The Girls That I Am Back In Town’ was featured on Johanson’s 1996 debut album, Whiskey. The album was released during the height of the trip-hop genre’s popularity, a style made famous by artists like Massive Attack and Portishead. While the song may not have been a mainstream chart-topper globally, it was a key track in establishing Johanson‘s signature sound and became a staple for fans of the downtempo, atmospheric electronic music scene of the 90s. The choice provides a unique, almost cinematic feel to Hook‘s entrance, setting him apart from the rest of the AEW roster.

    https://x.com/AEW/status/1959410693096063251

  • Adam Page on Why He Calls His Title the Men’s World Championship: It’s All About Respect

    Hangman Adam Page AEW Mens World Champion
    photo: Brian Damon for TheStunner.com

    “Hangman” Adam Page is currently sitting on top of the professional wrestling world as the reigning AEW Men’s World Champion. Fresh off a grueling and successful title defense against his bitter rival Maxwell Jacob Friedman this past Sunday at Forbidden Door in London, the champion has proven his mettle time and time again inside the squared circle. His reign has been defined by grit, determination, and spectacular matches that have kept AEW fans on the edge of their seats.

    While his in-ring work speaks for itself, Page is also proving to be a thoughtful champion outside of the ropes. In a recent statement, he explained his specific choice of words when referring to his title, revealing a deliberate effort to help create and maintain a sense of equality between the men’s and women’s divisions in All Elite Wrestling.

    An Important Distinction

    For Page, the decision to add the word “Men’s” to the AEW World Championship is a conscious effort to place it on the same level as the AEW Women’s World Championship. He believes that not specifying the gender for the men’s title while doing so for the women’s title inadvertently implies a hierarchy.

    “It’s an important distinction because it does put them on the same level,” Page told Bleacher Report. “Our women’s roster in AEW is incredible. They are just as, and in many cases, more talented than many on the men’s roster.”

    Putting Divisions on Equal Footing

    The champion elaborated on his perspective, noting the strong connection the female competitors have with AEW fans. He feels the way the championships are named should reflect how the talent is presented on television.

    “I think our fans connect with them in a way just as equally as they do with us,” he explained. “To have two divisions, a men’s and a women’s division, but to have to call one by the Women’s World Championship and the other as if it’s the more important one, you don’t make the distinction. I feel like that’s not how we present our rosters on television, so why should we refer to the championships in that way either?”

    Page added, “I’d like to think at least that we don’t present the men and women as being on different playing fields in AEW.”

    Hoping For A Change

    This isn’t just a personal quirk for Page; he hopes the terminology catches on throughout the company and beyond. He sees it as a small but meaningful step toward reinforcing the equal stature of all competitors.

    “It’s just a personal choice that I hope other people take up, and I’ve noticed it happening a little bit and I hope that continues,” he said.

    With another major title defense now behind him, the question turns to who will step up next to challenge the champion. We will likely find out who the next challenger is for “Hangman” Adam Page this Wednesday on Dynamite.

  • Jake Hager: Tony Khan Wouldn’t Let Me Become AEW’s Version of Groot

    Jake Hager: Tony Khan Wouldn’t Let Me Become AEW’s Version of Groot

    YouTube: AEW / Marvel

    Jake Hager is officially retired from professional wrestling after long runs with WWE and AEW. While looking back on his career, Hager recalled pitching an idea to AEW President Tony Khan where he would essentially become Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy.

    During the twilight of Hager‘s AEW run, his gimmick was wearing a purple bucket hat and defending the style choice regardless of the situation he was in. “I like this hat” became a somewhat popular AEW meme, but Hager wanted to take it one step further by saying nothing but that phrase.

    Chris Jericho is the reason why that purple hat was so over,” Hager told Chris Van Vliet. “It was live to the crowd when I first said, ‘I like this hat.’ And the crowd just popped. Once he heard that pop, that’s all he needed to know.”

    Hager spent part of the interview with Van Vliet shooting on Tony Khan, even saying “Fuck Tony Khan” at one point. The wrestler also shared disappointment for Khan not buying into his Groot idea.

    “I feel like the hat could have been way bigger, but [Khan] didn’t like me. I pitched an idea, and I think this i great… I wanted to turn into Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy where I would say, ‘I like this hat,’ and everybody in the Jericho Appreciation Society would know what I’m saying. I’m not saying, ‘I like this hat.’ I’m not saying, ‘I am Groot.’ They would just play off of it.”

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    Hager also spoke of his failed contract negotiations with AEW. “My first contract with AEW was up, and after that the negotiation process was very one-way. I could tell that [Khan] didn’t want me there. He offered me a year and a half. I was like, ‘Bro, I just did Stadium Stampede twice. Don’t act like Stadium Stampede didn’t put AEW on the map. I was in the debut episode. I was the big spoiler and you offer me 18 months after all that?’”

    Watch the full interview with Jake Hager below.

  • AEW Crowd Sings ‘Metalingus’ So Loud You Can Barely Hear Adam Copeland’s Entrance

    AEW Crowd Sings ‘Metalingus’ So Loud You Can Barely Hear Adam Copeland’s Entrance

    YouTube: AEW

    The crowd at AEW Forbidden Door 2025 was absolutely emphatic last night. Adam Copeland‘s entrance was an early high point of the pay-per-view, with a packed London crowd singing Alter Bridge‘s “Metalingus” so loud you could barely hear the song itself.

    Adam Copeland and Christian Cage opened the main card of Forbidden Door with a match against Killswitch and Nick Wayne. Christian got his revenge on the former Patriarchy members following their fallout at All In, seemingly “finding himself” after a long and bloody feud with Copeland.

    A reported 18,992 fans were in attendance at the O2 Arena, and it sounded like every last one of them came together to sing Copeland‘s entrance music. Just listen to the British crowd completely overtake “Metalingus” during Copeland‘s walk to the ring.

    https://x.com/AEW/status/1959663706033262888

    “When I was out with my neck injury, I met [Alter Bridge guitarist] Mark Tremonti,” Copeland told Journey of a Frontman about adopting “Metalingus” as his entrance music. “I met him at a Metallica show, actually. And I went back to his place after and he played me what would end up being the first Alter Bridge album. I heard ‘Metalingus’ and I was like, ‘Dude, can I use that when I come back?’ And he said, ‘Yeah! Of course!” So that ended up being the genesis of it and when I heard it, it was actually Mark singing. It hadn’t been Myles [Kennedy] yet. So it was in its infancy, but I had heard that song. I was like, ‘Okay, that’s gonna be what I come to the ring to.’ And that’s how that all started.”

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  • The Ultimate MJF vs. Fans Compilation

    The Ultimate MJF vs. Fans Compilation

    YouTube: TheMicahHarris

    He’s salt of the earth, he’s our glorious scumbag, he’s Maxwell Jacob Friedman.

    MJF has spent much of his time at All Elite Wrestling at war with the fans. He’s thrown drinks in countless marks’ faces and flung their hats into the crowd. He’s made babies cry at meet-and-greets and he’s flipped off little kids while they posed for pictures. He’s a heel’s heel, through and through.

    In this video compilation, you’ll see some of Max‘s finest moments. And even if you’re a die-hard Devil Worshipper, some of these clips may still be hard to watch.

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    For instance, one fan decided to bring MJF a piece of homemade fan art. After she presented it for a signature, MJF asked her how long it took to make. Once she replied, “Maybe like five hours,” the former AEW champion took a sharpie and completely scribbled it out. Brutal.

    Another vicious encounter came on board the 2020 Chris Jericho Cruise. A fan thought it’d be a good idea to step up to Max, only to get verbally decimated. “Nobody cares about you, you are insignificant, you are worthless, you are an amoeba,” MJF calmly told him.

    Check out this seven-minute long compilation of MJF destroying fans below.

  • Mercedes Moné on WWE Counter Programming: “I Don’t Care About Them, AEW Is Taking Over”

    Ahead of her highly anticipated championship defense at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door this Sunday, “The CEO” Mercedes Moné spoke with TV Insider about a variety of topics, including her upcoming match, her relationship, and her thoughts on WWE running events opposite AEW.

    This Sunday, Moné faces a monumental challenge as she defends her TBS Championship in a four-way match representing companies from around the globe. Her opponents are AEW‘s own Alex Windsor, CMLL‘s powerhouse Persephone, and the dominant Bozilla from Stardom at the highly anticipated Forbidden Door event.

    Moné on WWE Counter-Programming

    When asked about her thoughts on WWE increasingly putting on shows that counter-program against AEW events, and whether she sees it as flattery or a challenge, Moné did not mince words.

    “I don’t watch them. I don’t care about them. I’m ‘Eight Belts Moné.’ I’m a champion of so many different companies. So, the more the merrier. If they want to put on wrestling shows while we have wrestling shows, I’m always going to be better. I’m always better. That’s why I call myself ‘The CEO.’ They can keep on doing whatever they want to do, but AEW is taking over. If you want to watch the best, good wrestling, watch AEW.”

    The Struggles of Traveling with Eight Championships

    The conversation also touched upon the logistical challenges of being “Eight Belts Moné.” When asked about the reality of traveling with so much hardware, she revealed it’s a significant burden.

    “Oh my God! You have absolutely no freakin’ idea how hard it is to carry around at least 80 pounds. I haven’t officially weighed them. I’m really curious to see, but it’s legit 80 pounds in my carry-on. I’ve actually had to take two titles out and put them in my backpack because I can’t lift my carryon in the overhead anymore. I’ve been struggling, and it’s embarrassing because I’m a wrestler. It is absolutely so hard in every airport. I always get stopped by the TSA and have to spend an extra 20 minutes. It’s so hard. They pull out my titles. Everyone stares at me. They want to know what I do. They are like, ‘What are you? A boxer?’ No! Hello, do you not see these cute pink titles? Do you not recognize the TBS Championship? I’m a professional wrestler! It’s crazy and a lot of work, but what’s even harder was doing my entrance with all my championships around my waist. It’s really hard to move my hips with 70 or 80 pounds in your hips.”

    https://x.com/BeastMortos/status/1954749409809326415

    On Her Relationship With The Beast Mortos

    Moné also opened up about her relationship with fellow wrestler The Beast Mortos, with whom she went public earlier this summer. On the importance of having a partner who understands the unique demands of the wrestling industry, she shared what makes him the right one for her.

    “First of all, that mask he has is really, really hot. Two, he is a lawyer so I can sue you at any time I want. Three, it’s awesome to have someone that understands what you do. Wrestling is extremely, extremely hard, and nobody gets it but wrestlers. Just to have someone who loves it and understands it as much as I do, it’s the best feeling to have a partner like that.”

    Whether she’s discussing her competition, the surprising physical toll of carrying 80 pounds of gold, or her personal life, Moné speaks with a clear and unwavering confidence. While her boldest claims are delivered with the swagger of her on-screen character, her answers also reveal a seasoned professional who knows exactly how to command a headline and build anticipation for a big match. After all, she is “The CEO.”

  • Why Swerve Strickland Thinks the New Clipse Album is “Real Hip-Hop”

    Why Swerve Strickland Thinks the New Clipse Album is “Real Hip-Hop”

    Swerve Strickland reveals his favorite album is the new release from Clipse. Find out why the AEW star calls the record
    photo: Complex / Vevo

    Of all the wrestlers in AEW, you would be hard-pressed to find one who has their finger on the pulse of modern culture more than Swerve Strickland. The former AEW World Champion is a rapper, a podcaster, and a fashion icon. So, when he is asked about what he is currently listening to, fans are all ears. In a recent interview with Complex Sports, Swerve was asked what his favorite album of the moment is and he did not hesitate in his answer, naming the new album from the legendary rap group, Clipse.

    A Phenomenal Album

    When asked about the new Clipse album, Swerve called it “phenomenal.” He talked about his favorite songs from the album, naming “Fico” as a personal favorite and a “sleeper record” that many people may not be up on yet. He also mentioned “Chains and Whips” and “Ace Trumpets” as standout tracks. In fact, he said that he listened to “Ace Trumpets” so many times before it was even on streaming services.

    Real Hip-Hop

    Swerve also talked about how he can get his “fix from both” the new Clipse album and the new JackBoys album. He said that the two albums are very different in their feel, energy, waves, and frequency but that he can appreciate them both for their unique sounds. He called the new Clipse album “real hip-hop” with “hard lyrics” that are “dope” and “intricate.” He said that he can get his “fix from both” because he can appreciate both the lyricism of Clipse and the “high energy” and “vibe” of the JackBoys album. It’s clear that Swerve Strickland has a deep appreciation for hip-hop and his ear for quality music is just one more reason why he is one of the coolest wrestlers in the world today.

    This Sunday, Swerve Strickland has a huge opportunity to once again become a world champion in AEW. He will be facing off against Kazuchika Okada for the AEW Unified World Championship at the highly anticipated Forbidden Door pay-per-view event. The event will be held in London, England, and will feature stars from both AEW and New Japan Pro Wrestling. Fans can watch Forbidden Door this Sunday, August 24th at 1 p.m. ET on pay-per-view, TrillerTV, and PPV.com.

  • Report: WWE Actively Discussing a Chris Jericho Return

    Report: WWE Actively Discussing a Chris Jericho Return

    Chris Jericho teasing WWE return
    photo: AEW

    Rumors are running wild that one of AEW’s foundational stars, Chris Jericho, may be considering a jump back to WWE. The inaugural AEW World Champion has been absent from AEW programming since the April 9th episode of Dynamite, where he abruptly walked out on his Learning Tree protégés, Big Bill and Bryan Keith. While Bill and Keith have continued to team together, they appear to have dropped the “Learning Tree” moniker, leaving Jericho’s status with the company in question.

    Social Media Adds Fuel to the Fire

    The speculation reached a fever pitch recently when an Instagram post analyzing Jericho’s contract situation surfaced. The post noted that Jericho’s deal with AEW is set to expire in December 2025 and claimed, “He’s open to a WWE return depending on the situation.” In a move that sent wrestling fans into a frenzy, Chris Jericho himself “liked” the post, a small action that spoke volumes and added a ton of credibility to the rumors.

    Chris Jericho
    via: Instagram

    The Wrestling Observer Weighs In

    Today on Wrestling Observer Radio, veteran journalist Dave Meltzer confirmed that this is more than just fan speculation. “(Chris) Jericho is actually a really big story,” Meltzer stated. “His (AEW) contract is up at the end of the year, or late in the year, and there’s certainly been lots and lots of talk about WWE. I know from a WWE standpoint that there is lots of talk there about Jericho. People speculating Royal Rumble. Nobody has officially said anything, nor will anyone officially say anything.”

    A Much-Needed Change of Scenery?

    Prior to his disappearance, Jericho’s connection with AEW fans had become strained. The “Learning Tree” gimmick was not well-received, and crowds began chanting “please retire” unironically during his segments. A return to WWE could be the exact jolt his legendary career needs. He is without question a WWE icon, responsible for countless memorable moments and championship reigns. Furthermore, a return would open the door for a well-deserved induction into the WWE Hall of Fame, an honor he has yet to receive.

    While Jericho was instrumental to the launch and early success of AEW, carrying the first six-plus months of television as his “Le Champion” character, his chapter there may be coming to a close. He will always be a monumental part of AEW history, but at this stage, it might be what’s best for business for both parties to move on.

  • Swerve Strickland on Hanging Out With 50 Cent at Golf Event: ‘He Set Up a DJ Booth on the Green’

    Swerve Strickland on Hanging Out With 50 Cent at Golf Event: ‘He Set Up a DJ Booth on the Green’

    Twitter: AEW

    Being an AEW Superstar comes with its perks… like getting to play a round of golf with musicians like 50 Cent. Swerve Strickland got to experience that incredibly surreal moment earlier this year, but in a new interview, he spoke about what it’s really like to exist in that rare circle.

    Strickland attended the ‘Reggie Jackson Mr. October Foundation Celebrity Golf Classic’ back in January. While talking with Big Gold Belt Media, he spoke about hanging out with 50 Cent.

    “I was Bun B‘s guest,” Strickland recalled. “The first person I see when I roll up is 50 Cent. I meet him and then I run into Bun and we get into his golf cart. I was like, ‘Hey man, do you actually play and swing on the clubs?’ [Bun] was like, ‘Nah, I just run around and get high. I just like to ride the carts.’”

    He continued, “[50 Cent] sets up a DJ booth on the green and has girls serving drinks. You’ll be riding around and it’s nice and quiet, then you start hitting the corner and it’s like, ‘You can find me in da club.’ On the green! I’m like, ‘Isn’t golf supposed to be quiet?’ But he’s just boomin’, playing this stuff so everybody kind of parks and gets their drinks and hangs out.”

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    Strickland actually got to spend some one-on-one time with 50 Cent, who the wrestler grew up being a huge fan of. “I’m talking to 50 Cent for like 30 minutes straight about life, we’re talking about our kids, sharing things about the game. I’m like, ‘Man, I used to play your CD front to back, your mixtapes and all that stuff.’ Now we’re talking as peers.”

  • ROH Pure Champ Lee Moriarty To Present Debut Solo Art Exhibition

    ROH Pure Champ Lee Moriarty To Present Debut Solo Art Exhibition

    ROH Pure Champion and AEW star Lee Moriarty announces his debut solo art exhibition, Balance, at LA's Night Gallery. Discover the details of the wrestler's unique paintings.
    photo: AEW / Lee Moriarty

    All Elite Wrestling and Ring of Honor star Lee Moriarty is set to trade the wrestling ring for the art gallery this fall. The current ROH Pure Champion will present his debut solo gallery show, an exhibition titled Balance, at the Night Gallery in Los Angeles. The show is scheduled to run from September 27 to October 18, 2025.

    The exhibition is being curated by Adam Abdalla, the founder of Orange Crush: The Journal of Art & Wrestling.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DM5lxRMR964/

    A Different Side of Wrestling

    According to a press release issued on August 13, 2025, Balance will feature “a debut solo exhibition of works by artist and pro wrestler Lee Moriarty.” The exhibition will showcase eight new paintings that explore a different side of the wrestling world. The press release describes the works as offering “an intimate view of masked wrestlers—captured not in combat, but in moments of reprieve and solitude.”

    Moriarty‘s portraits are said to reveal a different side of luchadors, who are known for their larger-than-life personas. The paintings depict these figures in quiet, everyday moments, such as one lounging in a beach chair, another building a snowman, and a third peering through binoculars while birdwatching. These works draw directly from Moriarty’s personal experiences, including his time training in lucha libre in Mexico under the legendary Negro Navarro.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DIKmZxYNY5t/?hl=en

    From The Ring To The Museum

    While this is his first solo exhibition, Lee Moriarty is already making significant waves in the art world. A self-taught artist, Moriarty made his public debut as a visual artist at NADA Miami 2024 in a presentation with Orange Crush. Following that successful fair, one of his works was acquired by the Pérez Art Museum Miami for its permanent collection. This landmark achievement made Moriarty the first active professional wrestler to have an artwork acquired by a major museum.

    Artistically, his work often depicts wrestlers in repose, featuring intimate portraits of luchador icons like El Santo and Blue Demon. This reflects what the press release calls an “often underexplored duality within the lives of pro wrestlers, resonating with Moriarty’s own multi-hyphenate talent.”

    The exhibition at Night Gallery marks the “first major presentation of Moriarty’s evolving body of work, expanding traditional ideas of masculinity and identity.” The gallery, founded in 2010 by Davida Nemeroff, notes that Moriarty‘s debut aligns with its commitment to “showcasing artists who explore identity, performance, and narrative in unique and compelling ways.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DHMHISYJ64Y/?hl=en

  • AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door Card is Officially STACKED

    AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door Card is Officially STACKED

    One of the insane matches at Forbidden Door
    photo: AEW

    If you thought the card for AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door was looking good before, the fully revealed lineup is on another level entirely. What is taking place at the O2 Arena in London is not just another pay-per-view; it is a monumental, can’t miss event loaded with dream matches, huge championship clashes, and a war inside a steel cage that defies belief. This card is absolutely insane from top to bottom.

    Championship Gold on the Line

    The night will feature several high stakes championship encounters. In the main event, AEW World Champion “Hangman” Adam Page faces his ultimate rival, MJF. Elsewhere, the newly minted AEW Unified Champion Kazuchika Okada will defend his title against the formidable Swerve Strickland.

    The women’s division is set for a massive night. AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm will go one on one with the dominant ROH Women’s Champion, Athena. And in a truly international affair, TBS Women’s Champion Mercedes Moné defends her title in a four way match against the UK’s Alex Windsor, a top star from CMLL, and a representative from Stardom.

    An Unfathomable 10-Man War

    Words can hardly do this match justice. In a Lights Out Steel Cage match, it will be a 10-man war. On one side, you have a dream team of legends and high flyers: Darby Allin, Will Ospreay, Kenny Omega, Hiroshi Tanahashi, and Kota Ibushi. They will step inside the cage to face the combined might of The Death Riders (Jon Moxley & Claudio Castagnoli), Gabe Kidd, and The Young Bucks. This is a recipe for pure, unadulterated chaos and is guaranteed to be a violent spectacle.

    The Full Forbidden Door Card

    • AEW World Championship: “Hangman” Adam Page (c) vs. MJF
    • AEW Unified Championship: Kazuchika Okada (c) vs. Swerve Strickland
    • AEW Tag Team Championship: The Hurt Syndicate (Bobby Lashley & Shelton Benjamin) (c) vs. Winner of Tag Team Title Eliminator Tournament
    • Adam Copeland & Christian Cage vs. Nick Wayne & Kip Sabian
    • AEW Women’s World Championship: Toni Storm (c) vs. Athena
    • TBS Women’s Championship: Mercedes Moné (c) vs. Alex Windsor vs. Persephone from CMLL vs. TBD from Stardom
    • TNT Championship: Kyle Fletcher (c) vs. Hiromu Takahashi
    • Lights Out Steel Cage Match: Darby Allin, Will Ospreay, Kenny Omega, Hiroshi Tanahashi & Kota Ibushi vs. The Death Riders (Jon Moxley & Claudio Castagnoli), Gabe Kidd & The Young Bucks

    The Final Stop Before London

    The go-home edition of AEW Dynamite next week is also loaded and will set the final stage for London. Two huge matches have been announced, plus a face-to-face confrontation between two of the men involved in the Lights Out Steel Cage match.

    The announced lineup for AEW Dynamite includes:

    • Toni Storm & Alex Windsor vs. Mercedes Moné & Athena
    • AEW Tag Team Title Eliminator Tournament Finals: FTR vs. Brodido
    • Jon Moxley and Will Ospreay will have a face-to-face confrontation
  • Darby Allin: ‘Jackass’ Helped Me Find My Place in Wrestling

    Darby Allin: ‘Jackass’ Helped Me Find My Place in Wrestling

    Paramount / YouTube: Steve-O’s Wild Ride

    Darby Allin credits Jackass for helping him find his niche in wrestling. While guesting on the Steve-O’s Wild Ride podcast, the AEW star spoke about climbing Mount Everest, becoming friends with guys like Bam Margera and how Jackass influenced him as a kid.

    “When I do stunts, it’s to knock down mental barriers in my head and it makes me mentally stronger, where I’m like, ‘Dude, I can achieve anything.’ I literally came from jack shit and I had no self-esteem whatsoever, so when I started doing crazy stunts it literally gave me the confidence to hold down conversations even with guys like yourself,” Allin said to Steve-O.

    “I grew up a massive fan of Jackass. I felt like it was an outlet. I wanted to bring that kind of shenanigans into the world of wrestling. The first time I brought a skateboard to TV, everyone was like, ‘Holy fuck, there’s never been a skateboarder wrestler.’”

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    Allin continued, “As a kid, I would look at the wrestlers and be like, ‘I don’t relate to anybody’ in the sense like, ‘I wanna grow up to be like so and so.’ I felt like as a kid I couldn’t relate to them. I could relate to skaters, [Jackass], musicians, you know what I mean? I was like man these are my type of people. That’s why my whole M.O. in wrestling is to bring all these outside influences that a grew up with, like, ‘This is what made me me.’

    Allin also spoke about conversations he’s had with AEW President Tony Khan about how stunts like his recent skateboarding world record on Mount Everest can help bring a Jackass influence into the company.

    “I use Bam [Margera] as an analogy. Like, remember when Bam was a top skateboarder but his outside shenanigans were almost as big, if not bigger than his skateboarding? If I can do all this crazy shit outside of wrestling, it’ll just help me and all of us even more in wrestling. All the outside shenanigans, to me, helps get eyes on [AEW]. Tony‘s like,’ Yeah, good business model. Go jump off of whatever.’”

  • “He’s 1000% Correct”: Taz Backs Bret Hart’s Critique of Modern Wrestling

    “He’s 1000% Correct”: Taz Backs Bret Hart’s Critique of Modern Wrestling

    Taz backs up Bret Hart's controversial critique of modern wrestling
    photo: AEW / WWE

    It seems like the legendary Bret “The Hitman” Hart has once again stirred the pot in the wrestling world with his recent comments, but maybe they’re not as controversial as some are making them out to be.

    The “Controversial” Quote

    On a recent episode of The Masked Man Show, Bret Hart was asked about modern wrestlers borrowing from his iconic style. Rather than being offended, he explained that he’s flattered and that today’s stars have his full permission.

    “A lot of guys give me the courtesy of calling me and asking me, saying, ‘Would it be okay if we do this on TV. We want to do this as a sign of respect, but I wanted to ask you first. I don’t want to steal your moves without asking.’ After you retire, it’s fair game, they can help themselves to all my moves. I don’t need them anymore,” Hart said.

    “I take it as a compliment and whenever I watch wrestling and I see something that is obviously a salute, I take it as a huge compliment, especially from the wrestlers today. They’d all be a lot better off if they copied me more.”

    While the final line has drawn some criticism online with some fans calling him arrogant, I don’t think Bret meant it as a diss. As Justin Whang, host of Tales from the Internet, perfectly put it on X: “People are like “he’s so full of himself” as if they didn’t watch him say “the best there is, the best there was and the best there ever will be” for decades. We’re at the “ever will be” part now..”

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    Fellow Legends Back Him Up

    It wasn’t just fans defending The Hitman. ECW legend and current AEW commentator Taz also came to Hart’s defense, tweeting his full support. Taz stated, “So Bret Hart said recently in an interview about today’s current wrestlers… ‘They’d all be a lot better off if they copied me more.’ I agree with him. From in ring psychology, pacing, intensity & safety perspective he’s 1000% correct IMO. And it’s not just him, it’s many wrestlers from the past.”

    [shopify type=”product” id=”8938181787872″ blogid=”1236″]

    The Art of Not Hurting Your Opponent

    During the same interview, Hart elaborated on his philosophy, which puts the context of his “copy me” comment into sharper focus. He heavily criticized wrestlers who rely on moves that cause legitimate pain, specifically calling out chops and the style of wrestlers like Gunther.

    “The best wrestling has to pretend to be real. That’s what I did, I tried to make it as real as I could. Contrary to that Gunther guy, who seems like a nice enough guy when I met him, but I hate wrestlers that hurt each other on purpose. I hate it when you’re out there and getting beat up and hurt by a guy for real,” Hart explained.

    “Like chops. Who ever won a fight with a chop? What a waste of time. Ric Flair is famous for bringing the chops the way they are now. My dad used to tell wrestlers at Stampede, ‘Nobody ever beat anybody with a chop.’ It’s true. They hurt, they look like shit. They make a big slap sound, but they hurt. When you get chopped by somebody like Ric Flair for a 30 minute match and he chops you 15 times, your whole chest the next day is bruises. It hurts to put a shirt on. I used to wrestle Ric Flair and wake up going, ‘Why am I hurting so much? Doesn’t Ric Flair know it’s a show?’ It’s not supposed to be real. I’m not supposed to wake up with a really sore chest.”

    He concluded with a pointed statement on professionalism: “I have no respect for guys that hurt each other all the time. It’s just to me, lazy, shit wrestling when guys like Gunther…I’ve told him this to his face, it’s bullshit. When you’re hurting somebody for real, you’re unprofessional. I wrestled guys and never hurt anybody.”

    When you look at his full line of thinking, Bret’s comments aren’t about ego. They’re about preserving the art form he perfected, one based on believable action and, most importantly, protecting your opponent. He’s not saying he’s the only one to ever be good; he’s advocating for a style that prioritizes safety and psychology over cheap pops and legitimate pain.

    [shopify type=”product” id=”8938069917920″ blogid=”1236″]

  • MVP & Mike Bailey Shut Down AEW Backstage Heat Rumors in Hilarious Video

    MVP & Mike Bailey Shut Down AEW Backstage Heat Rumors in Hilarious Video

    AEW backstage heat rumors suggested issues between MVP's Hurt Syndicate and Mike Bailey. See how the wrestlers used a hilarious video to squash the gossip and control the narrative.
    photo: Instagram

    The internet wrestling community was buzzing with reports of backstage heat in AEW involving MVP and his dominant faction, The Hurt Syndicate. However, in a brilliant move, MVP and another wrestler involved in the rumors, “Speedball” Mike Bailey, decided to tackle the gossip head-on with a healthy dose of humor.

    Backstage Rumblings

    According to a report from Fightful Select, there were whispers of friction between MVP and some of the AEW talent. One of the key issues revolved around MVP‘s alleged reluctance for The Hurt Syndicate, the reigning AEW World Tag Team Champions, to lose to the tag team JetSpeed, which includes “Speedball” Mike Bailey.

    Further reports indicated that The Hurt Syndicate also refused to drop their titles to the popular and established team FTR. Instead, MVP reportedly favored losing the championships to a younger, up-and-coming team, such as The Gate of Agony, The Outrunners, or Private Party.

    These rumors began to swirl on the same day as the AEW television tapings in Columbus, Ohio. MVP initially took to Twitter, now known as X, to playfully ask, “heard any good rumors today,” but he didn’t stop there.

    [shopify type=”product” id=”8947095142624″ blogid=”1236″]

    A Comedic Response to Controversy

    Later in the day, MVP took his response to the rumors to another level by posting a hilarious video on Instagram. The video features MVP, along with his Hurt Syndicate stablemates Bobby Lashley and Shelton Benjamin, walking past Mike Bailey backstage.

    In the video, MVP stops and confronts Bailey, exclaiming, “F*** you, Speedball.” He then encourages Lashley and Benjamin to do the same, and they both meekly comply while looking at the ground. In a perfect comedic response, Bailey cheerfully retorts, “Well f*** you too, MVP” and “Well f*** you guys too.” As The Hurt Syndicate walks away, Bailey smiles and waves, effectively squashing any speculation of legitimate animosity.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DNCO8e_uZkE/

    The Right Way to Handle Rumors

    In an industry often plagued by negativity and “dirt sheet” gossip, it’s refreshing to see wrestlers take control of the narrative in such a positive and entertaining way. Instead of letting the rumors fester and create a toxic environment, MVP and Mike Bailey chose to address them with wit and humor, turning a potentially negative situation into a moment of levity.

    This approach not only dispels the rumors but also showcases their professionalism and camaraderie. It’s a masterclass in how to deal with the often-turbulent world of wrestling rumors.

  • Brody King Announces Limited Edition Collaboration with Adidas and Brain Dead

    Brody King Announces Limited Edition Collaboration with Adidas and Brain Dead

    Brody King Announces Limited Edition Collaboration With Adidas and Brain Dead
    photos: Brody King Instagram

    All Elite Wrestling star God’s Hate frontman Brody King has announced a major collaboration with two iconic brands. This Friday, August 8th, Adidas and the streetwear brand Brain Dead will release a limited edition shoe and boot emblazoned with Brody King‘s branding.

    The powerhouse wrestler took to Instagram to share his excitement about the project. He wrote, “This Friday @adidasoriginals X @wearebraindead X Brody King come together to bring you this extremely limited edition boot and shoe. Come out to the @brainslamwrestling event make sure you RSVP and grab a pair. It’s an extreme honor to work with two legendary brands and creating something so special.”

    Scroll through the carousel here to get a better look at the detail on the boots and shoes:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DM_N0nPvQ3m/

    How To Get The Brody King Kicks

    For fans looking to secure a pair of these exclusive items, Brody King noted that the best way is to sign up for the official Brain Dead newsletter. A limited quantity will also be available for purchase at the Brain Slam event this Friday in Los Angeles.

    [shopify type=”product” id=”8947091308768″ blogid=”1236″]

    What Is Brain Slam?

    To celebrate the launch of the Brody King x Adidas Japan collection, Brain Dead is hosting a special event called Brain Slam. The event is a unique fusion of professional wrestling and music. In their announcement, Brain Dead promised a massive show to honor the collaboration.

    “To celebrate the @brodyxking x Adidas Japan collection we’ve put together an insane card & bringing out our friends in @neg_hc to perform,” they stated. “Brain Dead and adidas invite you to Brain Slam to celebrate the release of the Brody King x adidas Japan collection. We’re bringing together global wrestling icons and a live set by Never Ending Game, uniting the worlds of sport, art, and music under one roof.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DMv_AKJSNTS/

    The event will feature a stacked card of international talent, including:

    • Brody King
    • Tiger Mask
    • Emi Sakura
    • Mei Suruga
    • Volador Jr.
    • Barbaro Cavernario
    • Neón
    • Magnus
    • Titán

    The event takes place this Friday, August 8, 2025, at 2341 E Olympic Blvd in Los Angeles, California. Doors will open at 7 PM, with the show scheduled to begin at 8 PM. Fans can RSVP for free at this link.