There is a lot of news outside the shows, injury updates, and storyline adjustments. What I share in these blogs are things I have discovered, along with my perspective on what is happening.
**Real Life Injury File**
*Stephanie Vaquer, affectionately known as Steph, recently posted a striking image of her bruised ankle, which displayed vibrant shades of purple and blue. The moon boot encasing her foot served as a crucial protective measure during her recovery. The aggressive attack by Raquel was a calculated move, designed to sideline Stephanie from the show temporarily. This would allow her the necessary time to heal from her injury while also allowing her to prepare physically and mentally for the upcoming Royal Rumble.
*Bianca Belair’s finger injury, sustained during WrestleMania 41, is recovering more slowly than she had hoped. The joints in her fingers aren’t bending as they should, leading to significant discomfort and limitations. This has resulted in a wave of frustration as she struggles with everyday activities, including the seemingly simple task of sewing her own ring gear. The delay not only hampers her preparation for the ring but also adds to the emotional toll of her recovery.
*B-Fab and Michin — Michin is out with a shoulder injury from a house show match with Jade Cargill. B-Fab took over for Michin in other matches, became concussed and is out right now, not medically cleared. Part of the reason for moving Jordyann Grace to SmackDown, along with her quick debut, was to help fill in the gaps left because of all the injuries. It seems like the Women’s division on SmackDown has stalled because of the injuries, with Tiffany Stratton still out, they dont know what to do with Jade Cargill.
**Creative Adjustments and Backstage Rumours
L.A. Knight reset. He is not really injured, but has been written out of the show for now to give him a break. Sometimes Creative hits a wall with a character, by writing him out gives the character a break, gets him healthy. When they return, it is usually when you least expect it, and what a pop as they call it. The Royal Rumble is coming.
Chris Jericho Spectulation — Adam Pearce started the buzz using the phrase “Break down the Walls” According to reports, rumours are that Chris wants to return to WWE for a final run, before he retires. By all reports, Chris is out of contract, but he is still listed on the AEW Website. Time will tell on this one, again, what the Royal Rumble to see if Chris will break the wall.
“Oba Femi” Strategy — Coming from backstage, everyone is excited about Oba. The decision was made for Oba to vacate instead of carrying a loss on his way to the main dance. It’s a protective style of booking, keeping the aura of the wrestler.
**The Cost of the Climb**
Coming out of backstage are reports that it was Cody who pitched that Drew take over the belt. Cody knew he needed the break, needing downtime to spend with the family and just breathe. Cody also felt that Drew was the right man for the job.
Fox Den Sports 