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Monday, January 21, 2019

Vintage Network content added, Interview with DDP, another SDL match, women's Rumble entrants, Matt Hardy teases return, WWE live event notes, and Questions on how WWE uploads to the Network, title match entrants in the Rumble, AJ as a free agent, and boycotting WWE to inspire change

WWE Network has added WWF Superstars episodes from April 18, 1992 through the end of that year. I expect more will come in the weeks to come.

Diamond Dallas Page discussed his new book on The Drew Marshall Show.

Added to Smackdown Live:
- The Miz vs. Cesaro. Each man will have his partner in his corner.

Announced for the women's Royal Rumble:
- Charlotte Flair
- Naomi
- Tamina
- The IIconics
- Dana Brooke
- Lana
- Nia Jax
- Nikki Cross

Matt Hardy once more teased returning to WWE soon, adding he has been physically cleared to get back in the ring. Depending on how his injury affected his contract, he could be able to join AEW in a few months. I'm curious if he'd make another jump for the new venture.

The Usos returned to action as a team on Smackdown Live's January 20 event, competing in a triple threat match for the Tag Team Championship. The Bar retained in a match that also featured New Day. Notably, Jey worked with Aiden English in a singles match earlier this weekend while Jimmy did not work the show.

Kurt Angle did not work Raw's January 20 live event after a surprise appearance earlier in the weekend. Apollo Crews defeated Baron Corbin in his place, which is pretty crazy when Kurt lost to Corbin at the beginning of the loop.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. WWE has a lot of technology available in their trucks. They've got a pretty sophisticated operation.

2. Not in front of the camera!

3. I like the idea that they're so focused on their title match that they don't also enter such a chaotic match. Honestly after going all out with a champion, what are their chances in the Rumble? I'm fine with the occasional spot of the loser entering the match, but it shouldn't be a rule.

4. I'm under the impression his WWE deal ends after WrestleMania. I'm under the impression he initially wanted to end his career in WWE given the bigger paychecks without the in-ring demands, but maybe he's willing to help AEW out given some of the contracts they're willing to offer. Time will tell.

5. I mean it's not like fans aren't already doing that. WWE's fortunate NBCU and FOX need content for their networks, because TV rights are far and away what's making the company a success. I do think if AEW, NJPW, etc. pull in business that shows there is an audience for an alternative to WWE, he'll make some changes. Of course that would mean them doing more than a few shows here and there in the U.S. Also of note is Vince needing to focus on the XFL. That can open the door for others to have more leeway with how the product is booked and presented.

- Another thing to add is that when WWE does let Triple H and Stephanie do things their way, fans need to support those ideas. If WWE draws big numbers for NXT, NXT UK, 205 Live, the Mae Young Classic, etc., Triple H and Stephanie will have ammunition to show Vince their vision can make him money. As long as those things remain somewhat niche, Vince is going to write them off as not capable of outdrawing Raw and Smackdown Live.

More wrestling tomorrow.

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