All Elite Wrestling has long embraced the intersection of professional wrestling and rock music, with several of its prominent stars showcasing their talents beyond the squared circle. The recent signing of international talent Thekla further underscores this connection, revealing another multifaceted performer joining the AEW ranks.
Many fans are familiar with Chris Jericho, the iconic frontman of the successful rock band Fozzy, who has masterfully balanced a legendary wrestling career with global music tours and album releases. The imposing Brody King is known for his hard-hitting style in the ring, but channels a different kind of intensity as the vocalist for the acclaimed hardcore band God’s Hate.
Thekla now adds her name to this list of musically-inclined wrestlers. As highlighted by “Queen of the Ring” Alex Lajas, Thekla is not only a dynamic in-ring competitor but also the guitarist and vocalist for the punk rock outfit Death Row Groupies. This revelation adds an intriguing layer to her persona as she begins her journey in AEW.
The band’s music is old school punk, offering fans a different avenue to connect with Thekla’s creative expression. Those interested can explore Death Row Groupies’ sound on their Bandcamp page, which features their EPs, The Drug Tito Tapes and The Fright Men For The Job
Thekla has already made a statement in AEW, not waiting long to make her presence felt. She made her impactful debut on last week’s AEW Dynamite. After weeks of teases, she launched an attack on Jamie Hayter. This week, she made her in-ring debut, making quick work of Lady Frost, and then assaulting her after the match, only for Queen Aminata to make the save and step up to Thekla.
This immediate assertion in the competitive AEW women’s division, combined with her punk rock credentials, positions Thekla as a unique and compelling new addition to the roster, promising to bring both raw energy to her matches and a distinct character influenced by her musical endeavors. The fusion of wrestling and musical talent often allows performers to cultivate a deeper connection with the audience, and Thekla appears poised to do just that.
The greatest tag team in history nearly formed in 2003, when WWE icon ‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage met up with 50 Cent. The former world champion got a cosign from from 50, right as the wrestler dropped his debut hip-hop album, Be a Man.
Be a Man wasn’t a critical or commercial success. It sold about 15,000 copies and was eviscerated by critics. However, the record does feature one cult classic — a hilarious Hulk Hogan diss track that gave Be a Man its title. “Be a Man” does have some vicious bars, especially when Macho Man took aim at Hogan‘s acting career:
They call you Hollywood?
Don′t make me laugh
‘Cause your movies and your actin′ skills are both trash
Your movie straight to video, the box office can’t stand
While I got myself a feature role in Spider-Man
With his killshot in the chamber, the ‘Cream of the Crop’ Savage linked up with 50 Cent to grab an official cosign. He got it, and the meetup with caught on film thanks to Fuse TV.
“Get a shot of this right here,” 50 said as he held Macho‘s CD up to the camera. “Randy Savage. Boy, if you ain’t got it, you don’t know what music is.”
Watch the footage of 50 meeting up with the Macho Man below.
Stephanie Vaquer is one of us! The Chilean WWE Superstar, who emerged a favorite amongst wrestling fans during her landmark champ-champ reign on NXT, is a lifelong metalhead.
It’s no surprise that Vaquer has been influenced by metal — her ‘Dark Angel’ gear and Devil Horns crown immediately caught the eye of fans when she made her Royal Rumble debut in 2025. Packaged perfectly with a heavy entrance theme, Vaquer immediately stole the hearts of metalhead wrestling fans around the globe.
Vaquer spoke about her love of metal while guesting on AEW star Thunder Rosa’s YouTube channel. “I listen to everything. Oh, I know everyone says the same thing, but I actually do listen to everything because I like it,” Vaquer began. “I think my favorite genre will always be metal.”
When Rosa asked Vaquer to name her favorite band, ‘La Primera’ responded immediately — “Iron Maiden.” And Vaquer’s favorite Iron Maiden song? “Wasted Years.”
Vaquer also mentioned Arch Enemy as her favorite band with a female vocalist.
You can also find Vaquer’s love of rock and metal throughout the life of her Instagram account. Going back to 2016, you can see the future wrestling phenom wearing Cannibal Corpse, Megadeth, Misfits and Motörhead merch.
https://www.instagram.com/p/ChXgvuhlI2Y/
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4yvfSVJndY/
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4yvfSVJndY/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BIOGARIjZ3Y/
https://www.instagram.com/p/B22WTreAUj9/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BywQF2VgW5Z/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkGU2SrA_Yt/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CbydRi3uE0g/
Though her reign as NXT Women’s Champion has come to an end, Vaquer has been officially called up to the main roster and is expected to begin her RAW journey on June 2.
If you ever thought Debbie Harry‘s rebellious cool was confined to the gritty stages of CBGB or the pages of Punk magazine, think again. In a fascinating and utterly delightful 1983 appearance on Late Night with David Letterman, the Blondie frontwoman revealed a surprising passion: professional wrestling. And not just any wrestling – she had strong opinions on who reigned supreme in the squared circle.
Turns out, Debbie wasn’t always a wrestling aficionado. She credits her now-husband and Blondie guitarist, Chris Stein, for pulling her into the captivating world of piledrivers and body slams. “My paramour and partner in crime, Chris Stein, got me into watching wrestling,” she told Letterman with a wry smile. It’s easy to picture the iconic duo, post-gig, settling in to catch the latest grapple-fest.
But here’s where it gets interesting. While many New Yorkers in the early 80s were undoubtedly glued to Vince McMahon‘s burgeoning WWF (World Wrestling Federation) out of their hometown, Debbie Harry had a distinct preference. “We watch wrestling from New York and Atlanta,” she explained, drawing a clear distinction. And the winner in her book? “We prefer the Atlanta shows,” she declared, adding, “they’re a little bit funkier, a little more crazy.”
This preference for “Atlanta” meant a love for Jim Crockett Promotions, a Southern-based powerhouse known for its hard-hitting style and more grounded, less theatrical approach compared to McMahon’s increasingly nationalized and character-driven WWF. It speaks volumes about Harry’s taste – an appreciation for something a bit rougher around the edges, a bit more unpredictable.
Of course, no conversation about pro wrestling, especially in the 80s, could avoid the age-old question: is it real? Letterman, ever the provocateur, naturally brought it up. Debbie, with her signature deadpan humor, delivered a line that perfectly encapsulated the unique appeal of wrestling. Amidst the economic anxieties of the time, she quipped that wrestling was “something you can still believe in.” It was a knowing wink to the audience, acknowledging the theatricality while celebrating the undeniable escapism and emotional investment it offered.
It just goes to show, even a punk icon with platinum hair and a stare that could melt ice has her guilty pleasures. And for Debbie Harry, in 1983, that pleasure was undoubtedly found in the “funkier” and “crazier” world of Atlanta pro wrestling, shared with her “partner in crime,” Chris Stein. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport, capable of captivating even the coolest of cats.
On the latest episode of The Suicide Silence Podcast, the entire band took a moment to thank Rhea Ripley for shining a mainstream spotlight on the band every time she hits the ramp.
Bassist Danny Kenny: “[She had] Kevin Hart [do the stomp]. She’s done it a couple times.”
(They roll the clip of Ripley telling Kevin Hart her favorite bands.)
Ripley (to Kevin Hart): “Growing up, I always listened to heavy music. Suicide Silence.”
Danny: “She’s shouted us out in at least five interviews. She always does Mitch’s stomp every single match before she comes out.”
Drummer Ernie Iniguez: “She’s got the form down. She teaches it and everything. Yo, that’s so good.”
Mark: “She does the arm thing.She does it her own way, too. [Expletive] sick.”
Frontman Eddie Hermida: “Thank you for the shout‑outs, Rhea. You’re the best. My parents love you. We sent her a box of merch, and she was so grateful. She said, ‘That was the coolest thing.’ You’re welcome. Let’s rock her on stage someday.”
A Stomp With History
Ripley’s pre‑match stomp is a direct nod to Suicide Silence’s founding frontman Mitch Lucker, who died in a motorcycle accident in 2012. Ripley has cited the band as a formative influence and makes a point of throwing the stomp, and now fans even see Kevin Hart giving it a try.
Metal Meets Mainstream
Ripley’s love for extreme music is no secret. The Women’s World Champion has walked out to Motionless in White and refers to bands like Slipknot and Suicide Silence whenever interviewers ask what is on her playlist. For Suicide Silence, having their late frontman’s signature move showcased on WWE’s global stage is the kind of crossover you cannot manufacture.
For Rey Mysterio, the mask is equal parts identity, heritage, and creative canvas. In a new GQ “Iconic Items” video, the lucha legend opened his gear bag and revealed a set of KISS‑themed masks designed by longtime costumer Hayashi. This particular design nods to the face paint of Ace Frehley, and Rey revealed he has a collection of all the members of KISS.
“Hayashi sent me a full collection,” Rey explained. “I have one for the ring, breathable and light, and a fancier version for public appearances.”
What the Mask Means
Mysterio told GQ the mask is more than a prop. It preserves his privacy, boosts his confidence, and connects him to Mexico’s lucha tradition.
“When the mask goes on, Rey comes alive. It represents my family, my culture, and all the kids who dream about flying.”
He rotates styles often, pulling color palettes from big match themes, pop‑culture crossovers, and even his opponents’ gear to tell a visual story.
Fans Spot More KISS Variations
Eagle‑eyed Twitter users Justin Whang, IANdrew Dice Clay and Vic Neumann dug up photos of additional KISS designs that haven’t hit TV yet.
Another wholesome clip making the rounds shows Rey shopping mask stalls in Mexico. When vendors point out that his masks cost extra, Rey jokingly asks to see their license to sell his likeness. Everyone laughs, the legendary luchador poses for a selfie, and an off‑camera voice quips that the photo doubles as official permission.
Between new KISS gear and good‑natured market hijinks, Rey Mysterio keeps proving that the mask is far more than a costume; it is a global currency for joy and inspiration..
If you only know Alicia Taylor as the powerhouse ring announcer on Raw, buckle up. Her path to WWE swings from blast‑beat clubs to Disney pop tours, a stint of living in her car, and a critical assist from rock royalty.
Early Days in Michigan
Taylor (real name Alicia Warrington) fell in love with wrestling and heavy music about the same time.
“I’ve been a fan since I was like four or five,” she said on Busted Open Radio. “We’re both yelling at the TV… My grandpa would always make fun of us. He’s like, ‘You know, these guys go and have beer afterwards.’ We’re like, ‘No, they’re not,’ and we were so angry about it, but me and my mom would always go to wrestling every time it came to the Saginaw Civic Center.”
The ring wasn’t her only stage.
“I started singing in death‑metal bands when I was, like, 14 or 15,” she added.
From Hannah Montana to Moving in With Ozzy and Sharon
A chance call landed her behind the kit for Hannah Montana and later for Kelly Osbourne. When the tours ended the paychecks stopped, and Los Angeles rent hit hard. Taylor slept in her car for months, hustling odd gigs to stay afloat.
That changed after a rehearsal with Kelly Osbourne:
“Kelly asked, ‘Where do you live now?’ I was like, ‘At the moment, nowhere. I’m staying in my car.’ She’s like, ‘You’re coming home with me.’ … Kelly brings me home to Ozzy and Sharon. Sharon’s like, ‘Okay, show her the room upstairs.’”
Taylor stayed with the Osbournes until she got back on her feet.
“I love them. I have nothing but good things to ever say about the Osbournes,” she said, crediting the family—and her appearances on their early‑2000s reality show—for jump‑starting her on‑camera career.
A Chance Meeting With Rhyno
The bridge to WWE came through mutual friend Nicole Fiorentino of Garbage and Smashing Pumpkins.
“Rhyno goes to see Smashing Pumpkins. My friend Nicole texts me, ‘Do you know this guy? I know you like wrestling.’ She sends me a picture of her and Rhyno,” Taylor recalled.
Months later she crossed paths with Rhyno at an indie show in Michigan.
“He asked, ‘Did you ever think about working for WWE?’ I was like, ‘Well, of course, but how am I going to do that? Everybody wants to work for WWE.’ He’s like, ‘Let me show them your stuff.’”
Rhyno’s recommendation led to a tryout, then a job with NXT. Taylor’s gritty cadence and genuine love of wrestling quickly made her indispensable, and she eventually moved to the blue brand.
Raw’s Voice Today
Today Alicia Taylor commands the mic every Monday night with the same confidence she once brought to death‑metal stages. Her journey, full of detours, drum fills, and a little help from the Osbournes, is a reminder that the road to WWE is sometimes louder, stranger, and far more musical than anyone could predict.
With a WWE Title showdown against John Cena looming at Backlash in St. Louis this Saturday, Randy Orton carved out time to speak with Billboard about the beats powering his workouts, the rappers shouting him out, and why mainstream stars belong in WWE.
The Playlist That Pushes the Viper
Orton’s home gym is stacked and so is the sound system. When he hits the weights, the speakers hit back with heavy bass. He explained what draws him to the current wave of female rap:
“These women can rap. It’s a little risqué, and I’m bumping it loud. I have a nice system in my home gym and when I’m working out, I’m playing Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, GloRilla, KenTheMan, Baby Tate, Nicki Minaj, Bia.”
A recent live event in Italy introduced him to newcomer Anna Pepe. He also shouted out Snow Tha Product, noting that both artists have now landed on his ever‑evolving gym playlist. “There’s always a bad‑ass bassline,” he said, “and it keeps me moving.”
Mount Rushmore of Female MCs
When pressed to narrow it down, Orton named his top four without hesitation:
“I think Cardi B and Nicki Minaj have to be up there. Megan Thee Stallion and GloRilla.”
Rap Verses Featuring the Viper
Orton’s impact stretches beyond the ring and into hip‑hop lyrics.
Polo G referenced Orton’s “voices” in the track “Caroline,” a line the wrestler’s son proudly pointed out.
Key Glock dropped an entire track titled “Randy Orton,” which led to a brief DM exchange between the two.
Eladio Carrión recorded “RKO,” then invited Orton to deliver an RKO on set while filming the music video at Citi Field in chilly 45‑degree weather.
“It doesn’t get much cooler than that,” Orton admitted.
From LL Cool J to Pandora Deep Cuts
Orton’s love affair with rap started young. His first cassette was LL Cool J’s “I’m Bad.” He still remembers rapping the lines before bed as a kid. Over time the playlist grew to include 2 Chainz, Kendrick Lamar, Mac Miller, Eminem, and whatever surprises Pandora serves up during late‑night cardio.
Classic rock still has a place, thanks to his dad’s influence. Led Zeppelin, Hendrix, and Pink Floyd provided the soundtrack to Orton’s childhood, while Nirvana and Metallica defined his high‑school years. “I like a little bit of everything,” he said.
Respect for Logan Paul, Bad Bunny, and Travis Scott
Crossover stars often divide fans, but Orton offered praise for the ones who put in the work.
“You can tell right away if they’re a real fan. Logan Paul definitely wants to be there. He’s an amazing athlete and works very hard. Same with Bad Bunny. They went to the Performance Center, took the bumps, got sore, and came back. That’s tough, but they stuck with it.”
He sees their involvement as a win‑win. WWE gains new eyes, while the artists live out childhood dreams in the ring.
Adam Jones, guitarist of Tool, has lent his talents to the new entrance theme for Penta El Zero Miedo, and the result is as intense as you’d expect. The track, titled “The Fire Is Coming,” made its debut on WWE RAW and had fans buzzing the moment it hit.
Announcer Michael Cole emphasized the magnitude of the collaboration:
“You’re hearing a new version of Penta’s theme featuring one of the greatest guitarists of all time, Adam Jones from Grammy award-winning band Tool, using a specific playing technique that has been heard since the early ’90s and around the globe.”
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJSuqAtOIpw/
The guitar work stands out immediately, adding a dramatic and electrifying energy to Penta’s already iconic entrance. It’s a natural pairing—Penta’s signature intensity with Jones’ unmistakable style.
What exactly did Michael Cole mean by “a specific playing technique”? Fans can now speculate for themselves.
An official version of “The Fire Is Coming” is set to be released on streaming platforms later this week. Until then, fans will be replaying the entrance and appreciating just how cool it is to hear one of metal’s most revered guitarists soundtracking a WWE superstar.
Previously, Jones dressed as Penta for a Tool Halloween show. Jones is a huge wrestling fan, being spotted ringside at WWE shows, indie shows and attending lucha events in Mexico.
Sami Zayn is celebrating a major moment in punk rock — the release of At Peace, the first new album in eight years from legendary band Propagandhi.
On social media, the WWE superstar wrote:
“Happy ‘First New @propagandhi Record in 8 Years Day’ to all who celebrate. Perhaps the most truly meaningful, worthwhile punk bands ever.”
https://x.com/SamiZayn/status/1918428398122353122
Propagandhi, a politically charged punk band formed in Manitoba in the mid-80s, has long been praised for its sharp lyrics, progressive politics, and genre-defying musicianship. Their last record, Victory Lap, dropped in 2017 and since then fans have been waiting patiently for a follow-up. At Peace marks a long-awaited return and early reception suggests it’s more than worth the wait.
Zayn’s post wasn’t just a passing shoutout. The Montreal native has deep roots in punk and ska, both as a fan and as a performer. Before adopting the name Sami Zayn, he wrestled under the masked persona El Generico, who famously came to the ring to The Bouncing Souls’ “Ole!” Zayn has often cited punk rock’s DIY ethos and anti-authoritarian spirit as core influences both inside and outside the ring.
It’s another reminder of the intersection between pro wrestling and alternative music — and how Zayn, even as one of WWE’s most visible stars, remains deeply tied to his underground roots.
In one of the more unexpected crossovers of the year, John Goblikon, the chaotic goblin mascot of the band Nekrogoblikon and host of the Right Now podcast, is heading to TNA Wrestling.
Goblikon announced via social media that he’ll be part of this week’s TNA tapings in Irvine, California—including the live TNA Impact on May 1st. In true John fashion, he kept the details vague and chaotic:
“Say his name and he appears. John Goblikon. Hey. It’s me. And I’m here to tell you that this Thursday and Friday, I’m gonna be in Irvine, California with TNA Wrestling. That’s right. I mean, maybe I’ll be backstage doing some pitch with the wrestlers, or maybe I’ll take part in my very first wrestling match. Anyways, if you’re gonna be in Irvine, get those tickets right now.”
Host of hit podcast “RIGHT NOW”, John Goblikon is coming to TNA!
What will happen when Insurance salesman, turned internet famous goblin, turned lead singer of the premier goblin metal band "Nekrogoblikon” comes to IRVINE, CA?
For those unfamiliar: Nekrogoblikon is a melodic death metal band known as much for their absurd humor and wild visuals as their riff-heavy catalog. John Goblikon serves as their goblin mascot and hype-goblin, regularly appearing in their music videos and stage shows. He also hosts the Right Now podcast, where he interviews celebrities, musicians, and other chaotic personalities while maintaining his absurd goblin persona.
Two matches have already been announced for Wednesday’s live TNA Impact. TNA World Champion Joe Hendry will team up with The Hardys to take on Frankie Kazarian and the new TNA Tag Team Champions, The Nemeth Brothers. Also on the card, Leon Slater will square off against KC Navarro, and Indi Hartwell is set to make her TNA debut.
Whether Goblikon actually steps into the ring or just wreaks havoc backstage remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure—Impact just got a little more goblin-infested.
Before they were household names, Chris Jericho and Lance Storm were just a couple of young, hungry Canadians trying to make it in the United States. Their big break came in the early ’90s when Jim Cornette brought them into his Smoky Mountain Wrestling promotion as the white-meat babyface duo The Thrillseekers.
Smoky Mountain Wrestling was a short-lived but influential promotion based in Tennessee and the surrounding region. Launched by Cornette with financial backing from legendary music executive Rick Rubin, SMW aimed to revive the southern wrestling style that had dominated the territory scene in the ’70s and ’80s. Although it only ran from 1991 to 1995, SMW became a breeding ground for future stars—and a nostalgic haven for fans of classic wrestling.
When Jericho and Storm arrived, they looked like they were ripped straight out of a teen magazine: clean-cut, energetic, and armed with athleticism. Cornette saw dollar signs and packaged them in the spirit of legendary teams like the Rock ‘n’ Roll Express.
One of the most unforgettable pieces of this marketing push was a pair of amazing video montages set to Danger Danger’s “Rock America.” The footage shows Jericho and Storm “rocking across America,” living their best early ‘90s lives—posing in front of landmarks, dancing, and flexing with that mix of earnestness and cheesiness that could only work in that era.
In one standout moment from the montage, Jericho talks about their dream to become the “hottest new tag team in the world.” Storm, ever the straight man to Jericho’s over-the-top energy, plays it cooler, but you can tell both were happy to have an opportunity to be showcased, even if they look a tad awkward. Part Two features the duo hitting the gym while Billy Squier’s “Fast Times” blasts our TV speakers.
The Thrillseekers never got the long run Cornette had envisioned. An untimely injury to Jericho derailed their momentum, and shortly thereafter both men went their separate ways. But this run was an important first step, giving them the U.S. exposure and polish they needed to take their careers to the next level.
Storm would go on to have a stellar technical wrestling career in ECW, WCW, and WWE. Jericho, of course, would become one of the most decorated and innovative performers in wrestling history, headlining for WWE, AEW, and numerous other promotions around the globe. Jericho is currently out on tour with his band Fozzy.
It’s fun to look back and see how it all started: two kids, a dream, and “Rock America” blaring in the background.
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer has shared an interesting backstage tidbit: there’s a working pitch in WWE for a tag team match later this year that would see John Cena team up with rapper Travis Scott. The proposed opponents? None other than Cody Rhodes and Bad Bunny.
Scott has been inching closer and closer to the wrestling world over the past few months. He was heavily involved at Elimination Chamber, standing side-by-side with Cena during the now-famous heel turn angle. He then showed up again at WrestleMania 41, playing a key role in the main event. According to reports, Scott has caught the wrestling bug and is rumored to be training for a potential in-ring debut at Booker T’s wrestling school down in Texas.
Meanwhile, Bad Bunny hasn’t stepped into a WWE ring since his standout performance at Backlash Puerto Rico back in May 2023. There were early hopes that he’d wrestle Dominik Mysterio at this year’s WrestleMania, but the plans didn’t pan out. However, Bunny has made it clear that he’s not done with wrestling. In an interview with Rolling Stone, he said:
“I want to do it one more time. I want to put my life at risk in the ring. I felt like I didn’t risk it enough in the ring, and I want to do it. I want to scare my mother. When? I don’t know. We stay in contact with the people at WWE, we’re always paying attention to what’s going on. But when, I don’t know. I hope there’s a time where I can really get ready, like I did the last few times. And I’d love to take more time to get ready physically.
But man, just like in music, I do this to get better and to do something different. Sometimes, I say, ‘I’m going to quit everything and just do wrestling full time.’ I feel like in wrestling, I just go sporadically as a celebrity. I’m going to go full time and be a heel. That’s what I’d love. [Laughs] I was always a fan of the villains more than the good guys.”
There’s no official date or event locked in for this potential match, but with Cena entering the final few months of his in-ring career, and two global music icons possibly lacing up the boots, it’s easy to see why WWE would be all-in on trying to make this happen.
AEW star Adam “Edge” Copeland and Metallica frontman James Hetfield were spotted enjoying the action at Tuesday night’s NHL game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Ottawa Senators, held at Scotiabank Arena. The two legends in their respective worlds caught the attention of fans and media alike as they cheered on the Leafs, who pulled off a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory.
According to the Toronto Star, Hetfield is currently in town ahead of Metallica’s two-night stand at Rogers Centre on April 24 and 26. The iconic metal band is known for drawing massive crowds, and Hetfield used his downtime to take in a game from Toronto’s hockey cathedral.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DIzdcp8xzBd/?
Copeland, an Ontario native and lifelong Leafs fan, was right at home. Not only did he attend the game, but he and Hetfield also posed for photos with Leafs legend Wendel Clark, who was in the building. The moment was a full-circle experience for Copeland, who has a Maple Leafs-themed man cave in his North Carolina home — complete with a rod hockey table branded with Wendel Clark’s name.
Also in attendance was WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus, another Ontario native and proud Leafs fan, rounding out an impressive trio of wrestling royalty representing at the rink.
Copeland and Hetfield’s meet-up wasn’t just a case of celebrity mingling—it was the union of two lifelong Leafs fans. Copeland, an avid metalhead, has never been shy about his Metallica fandom and even included “Metalingus” by Alter Bridge as his iconic entrance music, a song that nods to his love of heavy riffs. Sharing space with Hetfield at the game surely ranked high on his list of surreal moments.
Living Colour weren’t the only musical act to hit the WrestleMania 41 stage this weekend. While rumors were swirling that Slayer would be performing on night two, that wasn’t entirely accurate. Slayer as a full band didn’t appear—but legendary guitarist Kerry King did, and he delivered a metal-soaked moment of his own.
King took to the stage to perform live guitar for Damian Priest’s new entrance theme, “Rise for the Night.” Watch it below (if doesn’t autoplay, the King performance starts at 10:37)
Here’s footage from inside the stadium, which sounds a little heavier:
The heavy track accompanied Priest’s entrance into Allegiant Stadium for his Sin City Street Fight against Drew McIntyre. While there seemed to be some technical issues initially, it was a moody, riff-heavy presentation that felt tailor-made for a Las Vegas WrestleMania and helped give the moment a unique flair.
The entrance was unforgettable, but the match didn’t go Priest’s way. The former Judgment Day member fell short in the brutal showdown, which saw McIntyre come out on top.
Still, Priest and Kerry King’s partnership isn’t a one-off. Later this year, Priest will serve as host for Slayer’s only U.S. headlining show of 2025, set to take place at Hersheypark Stadium in Pennsylvania. The stacked lineup features Slayer, Knocked Loose, Power Trip, Suicidal Tendencies, Cavalera, and Exodus, with Priest serving as the metal ambassador for the night.
At WrestleMania 41 night one last night, it finally happened: Living Colour performed CM Punk’s entrance theme, “Cult of Personality,” live on the grandest stage of them all, for the first time since WrestleMania 29. The band delivered the anthemic track in front of a packed Allegiant Stadium, setting the perfect tone for Punk’s highly anticipated main event showdown.
Fans who have followed Punk throughout his career knew how big this was.
WWE added another layer of nostalgia for longtime fans—before Punk made his entrance, the video package highlighting his journey to the main event was set to “This Fire Burns” by Killswitch Engage, his original WWE entrance theme. For fans of the straight-edge superstar, both moments were electric.
In a 2022 interview with SPIN, Punk shared the story behind how he got WWE to let him use “Cult of Personality” in the first place. He first heard the song while playing little league. “What gets me is that it’s such a personal story of his connection with the song and the band,” Guitarist Vernon Reid said. “His Little League coach was totally hip, using ‘Cult’ as young CM Punk’s ‘get out on the field’ music in 89. They won their season’s championship! It stuck. We’re grateful.”
“I was this guy the fans loved,” Punk said. “So the song ‘Cult of Personality’ represents when there is a distinct individual who has such charisma, such personality, that they develop this following, and it’s really not anything more than a cult. And more often times than not, that person turns out to be very dangerous.”
Punk said the decision came down to what he felt truly represented him. “I didn’t want just a song that was going to be cool for three weeks and then I’d get sick of it. I knew ‘Cult of Personality’ had staying power, and the lyrics lined up with the character I was trying to put on TV.”
Twelve years after the song debuted during his legendary ‘Summer of Punk’ run, the moment was finally brought full circle in front of a sold-out stadium at WrestleMania. Whether it was nostalgia, storytelling, or pure spectacle—it worked.
The chart-topping rapper and Bronx native has been announced as the official host of WWE SummerSlam 2025, which will take place Saturday, August 2 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This will also mark the first time SummerSlam is expanded to two nights, adding even more spectacle to WWE’s second-biggest event of the year. Tickets for the event go on sale Friday, May 10, via Ticketmaster.
This isn’t just another celebrity booking. Cardi B has been vocal for years about her childhood love of professional wrestling. In past interviews, she’s cited Eddie Guerrero, Booker T, Batista, Triple H, Edge, Lita, Kane, and The Undertaker as some of her favorites growing up. Her social media has been littered with WWE references over the years, and in 2021, she briefly trended alongside Raw when fans mistakenly thought she was making an appearance.
Now, she’s officially part of the WWE Universe in a big way, and doing it in her own backyard. SummerSlam 2025 at MetLife is expected to be one of WWE’s biggest shows of the year, and with Cardi on hosting duties, there’s no doubt it’ll come with some unforgettable moments.
Cardi originally teased an appearance during the initial SummerSlam announcement:
I used to watch wrestling ,my favs are booker T, Batista,eddie,Triple H ,edge,Lita https://t.co/YQm01Q801k
According to a new report from Fightful Select, legendary metal band Slayer is rumored to perform live at WrestleMania 41, likely during night two on Sunday.
The performance is expected to accompany the entrance of Damian Priest, and while nothing has been confirmed, my speculation is they will offer a rendition of their classic track “South of Heaven”—a fitting choice, considering it’s also the name of Priest’s signature chokeslam. UPDATE: Turns out it was not Slayer, but just guitarist Kerry King helping perform Damien’s new entrance theme. Watch it here.
The rumored collaboration comes at a time when Priest’s relationship with Slayer is deeper than a shared appreciation for heavy music. Just a few weeks ago, it was announced that Damian Priest would serve as the official guest host for Slayer’sonly U.S. headlining show of 2025, taking place September 20th at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, PA. That massive show will also feature Knocked Loose, Power Trip, Suicidal Tendencies, Cavalera, and Exodus, and promises to be one of the biggest metal events of the year. (For more on that story, check out our previous article here.)
While Slayer has never performed live for WWE, their music has been featured before. WrestleMania 27 saw Edgewalk to the ring using a Slayer track, setting a precedent for metal’s presence on the grandest stage of them all.
WrestleMania 41 weekend is already stacked with star power, and Slayer wouldn’t be the only iconic act taking part. Tonight on night one, Living Colour is scheduled to perform CM Punk’s entrance theme, “Cult of Personality,” live.
The action kicks off tonight at 7 PM ET on Peacock in the U.S. and on Netflix internationally.
UPDATE: Turns out it was not Slayer, but just guitarist Kerry King helping perform Damien’s new entrance theme. Watch it here.
WrestleMania has always been about more than just wrestling.
The annual event, which takes place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas this weekend, is also about creating moments that involve both the wrestlers themselves and also celebrities and musicians.
Here is a look back at the 15 best hard rock and metal moments in the history of WrestleMania.
15. Kid Rock (WrestleMania 25)
At some point in the late 2000s, WWE thought it would be a good idea to have musical performances be part of WrestleMania with no clear connection to the action in the ring. Think of it as a halftime show of sorts.
Fans attending WrestleMania 25 in 2009 at Reliant Stadium in Houston sat through nearly four hours of matches, plus a 10-minute, career-spanning medley of Kid Rock songs that included “Bawitdaba,” “Rock N Roll Jesus,” “Cowboy,” “All Summer Long” and “So Hott.”
That’s assuming they didn’t use that time to get up from their seats and hit the stadium bathrooms and concession stands.
14. Drowning Pool (WrestleMania X8)
Wrestling fans got not one but two songs from Drowning Pool during WrestleMania X8 in 2002. They kicked things off playing “Tear Away” from their 2001 debut album, Sinner. That would be followed up with their take on Triple H’s entrance song “The Game.”
Given the superb performances of that song from another act on this list, Drowning Pool could have stopped after their first song and called it a night.
13. Saliva (WrestleMania X8)
WrestleMania X8 featured both Drowning Pool and Saliva pulling double duty. The latter first performed “Superstar” as images of WWE superstars flashed on the giant video screen behind them.
Moments later, Saliva provided the proper soundtrack for The Dudley Boyz as they kicked into “Turn The Tables.” The Dudley Boyz liked to slam people through tables, you can see why the song fit the mood of the moment.
https://youtu.be/N_WX9WeMyLE?si=9fCr7Wee9APosxPb
12. Rev Theory (WrestleMania XXX)
Randy Orton’s entrance theme, “Voices,” is one of the better songs you’ll hear when tuning into WWE programming these days. The music and lyrics are certainly on point for Orton’s persona.
New York-based rockers Rev Theory finally got the chance to play it live as Orton slowly made his way to the ring during WrestleMania XXX in 2014, nearly six years after The Viper started using it as his entrance music.
11. Ash Costello of New Years Day (WrestleMania 37)
There aren’t many current wrestlers who are more metal than Rhea Ripley. From her ring attire, her moveset and especially her entrance music over the years, Ripley looks like she would be at home in the pit at just about any metal show.
WWE had Ash Costello of alt-metal act New Years Day handle vocals for the multi-time world champion’s first entrance song, “Brutality.” Costello got the call to perform the song live as Ripley made her way into Raymond James Stadium in Tampa to take on Asuka.
10. Mark Crozer and The Rels (WrestleMania XXX)
While the names might not be immediately familiar, this WrestleMania appearance is ranked on vibes alone. Crozer is best known for his time in Scottish alt-rock band The Jesus and Mary Chain. He later fronted Mark Crozer and The Rels, which recorded a song called “Broken Out In Love.”
WWE thought the track was perfect for Bray Wyatt’s entrance, bought the rights, and renamed it “Live in Fear.” The song (and its reworked title) proved to be the ideal scene-setter as the creepy Wyatt character made his WrestleMania XXX entrance.
9. Motorhead (WrestleMania 21)
Motorhead has the unique distinction of being the only act on this list that has made multiple WrestleMania appearances. But that’s probably what happens when you play the entrance music for the then-owner’s son-in-law.
Lemmy and the boys first appeared during Triple H’s WrestleMania 17 entrance (more on that in a bit). They ran it back four years later at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
8. P.O.D. (WrestleMania 22)
For 20 years, Rey Mysterio has walked to the ring with the sound of P.O.D. playing “Booyaka 619.” He’ll do it once again this year as he takes on fellow masked superstar Chad Gable El Grande Americano.
Out of all of his WrestleMania entrances, Mysterio will likely be best remembered for when P.O.D. played him to the ring before winning the World Heavyweight Championship in a triple-threat match against Kurt Angle and Randy Orton in 2006.
From the intensity of the performance to the pageantry of Mysterio’s attire, this was an entrance suitable for the grandest stage in professional wrestling.
7. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts (WrestleMania 35)
When one of your opponents arrives via helicopter, you better be ready to walk out to the ring with more than just some recorded music playing in the background. WrestleMania 35 featured a triple threat match between SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair, Raw Women’s Champion and former UFC champ Ronda Rousey and Becky Lynch.
Flair was flown into MetLife Stadium while Rousey marched to the ring as Joan Jett and the Black Hearts blasted “Bad Reputation.” The only non-champion in the match, Lynch, received no special entrance, but did end the night with both belts.
WrestleMania 2 was an ambitious affair, with the event being held in three different cities across the U.S. on the same night. Each city had its own unique card and celebrity appearances.
The Rosemount Horizon just outside of Chicago saw a tag team championship match between The British Bulldogs and The Dream Team of Greg “The Hammer” Valentine and Brutus Beefcake. The Bulldogs arrived with both “Captain” Lou Albano and Ozzy Osbourne in their corner.
Ozzy’s involvement in the match was minimal, but his guest spot was enough to make the Bulldogs’ victory seem like that much more of a big deal.
5. Living Colour (WrestleMania 29)
Few wrestlers in WWE today are using entrance music that was written and performed by an act other than their somewhat mundane in-house production team. Many of today’s entrance songs aren’t immediately recognizable within the first couple of notes. But when “Cult of Personality” kicks on, you know CM Punk is about to head to the ring.
The band performed the song live at WrestleMania 29 in 2009. Will they do the same again this year during WrestleMania 41? Punk is set to main event night 1 of the event in Las Vegas against Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns. Living Colour just so happens to be in town the day before to play on Fremont Street.
4. Motorhead (WrestleMania X-Seven)
“We are Motorhead and we’re gonna kick your ass.” And then Motorhead went and did just that.
3. Motionless In White (WrestleMania XL)
From the moment Chris Motionless screams, “This is my brutality,” WrestleMania fans are treated to one of the most intense live performances during the annual event. There’s massive pyro, boot stomps and Rhea Ripley screaming in the lead singer’s face.
Motionless then gives his unique introduction to the champ while hyping up the crowd. “Ladies and gentlemen, I need you to make some noise for the Eradicator, the demon in your dreams, your mami, Rhea Ripley.”
It’s one of those moments in wrestling where you can feel the moment, whether you’re watching from your seat at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field or the comfort of your own home.
2. Alice Cooper (WrestleMania III)
Like he often does onstage, Alice Cooper fully committed to the part when he agreed to appear at WrestleMania III at the Pontiac Silverdome in 1987. Cooper was featured in several promos along with Jake “The Snake” Roberts leading up to the match with The Honky Tonk Man.
Once the bell rang, Cooper was right in the middle of the action, holding a huge snake as he approached terrified manager Jimmy Hart.
Limp Bizkit were tightly woven into the fabric of WWE around this time.
Leading up to the “Stone Cold” Steve Austin vs. The Rock main event of WrestleMania X-7, the nu-metal band’s “My Way” provided the perfect backdrop to one of the most iconic hype videos for any wrestling match. Around this same time, The Undertaker would take on a biker persona. He would ride to the ring while Kid Rock’s “American Badass” played throughout the arena before eventually switching to Limp Bizkit’s “Rollin.”
Fast forward to 2002, and the band finally gets its WrestleMania moment, playing the song live as The Undertaker rolls to the ring on his Harley. They also played the lesser-known “Crack Addict” for the crowd at Safeco Field in Seattle.
It’s all just the perfect snapshot of the early 2000s.
Nattie Neidhart made her Bloodsport debut Thursday night and delivered what many are calling the fight of the night.
Facing off against Miyu Yamashita, Neidhart turned heads with a physical, hard-hitting performance that brought out a new edge to her game. But before the bell even rang, she had already stolen the show—entering to a blistering remix of Rage Against the Machine’s “Killing in the Name” layered with those unmistakable Hart family guitar squeals. It was a moment that immediately grabbed the crowd and set the tone for what would follow.
Bloodsport stands apart from traditional wrestling shows by presenting bouts with no ropes, no pinfalls, and a more shoot-style, MMA-influenced presentation. Matches can only end by knockout or submission, giving the entire event a raw, stripped-down feel that emphasizes physicality and realism.
The match itself was a gritty affair, filled with stiff shots and smooth grappling exchanges that reminded fans exactly why Neidhart’s technical pedigree is so respected. Yamashita brought the fire, and Neidhart matched it every step of the way.
After the match, the buzz didn’t stop. Neidhart seemed to spark a new rivalry, stepping toe-to-toe with Kenzie Paige, the current NWA Women’s Champion. The confrontation hints at a possible showdown at the next Bloodsport event—one that fans will definitely have circled on their calendars.
