Asianet Newsable

3 Major Consequences Jacob Fatu Could Face After Attacking Roman Reigns on WWE RAW Episode

Vaishnav Akash — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:55:38 +0530

Jacob Fatu’s assault on Roman Reigns during WWE RAW has set the stage for high drama ahead of Backlash 2026. The incident could lead to significant repercussions for The Samoan Werewolf. Here are three possible consequences.

Roman Reigns has been operating at a different level, defeating CM Punk at WrestleMania and now defending his title against Fatu. If Reigns beats him clean at Backlash, he could demand that his cousin acknowledge him as The Tribal Chief, reinforcing his dominance over the family.

The Usos reunited with Reigns after WrestleMania, but they stayed out of the confrontation on RAW. Reigns could order them to attack Fatu for his disrespect, escalating the feud. This could lead to an impromptu match between Fatu and either Jey or Jimmy, with Reigns interfering to intensify the rivalry before Backlash.

The Anoa’i-Fatu lineage is a proud wrestling dynasty, and loyalty to the Tribal Chief is central. By attacking Reigns, Fatu may have crossed a line. Reigns could officially exile him from the family, making their feud more personal and giving the Bloodline storyline a fresh direction heading into Backlash.

4 Signs Roman Reigns Is About To Shock WWE Fans With a Ruthless Heel Turn

Vaishnav Akash — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 09:30:00 +0530

Roman Reigns’ reign as WWE World Heavyweight Champion may not stay heroic for long. From his treatment of The Usos to subtle creative hints, here are four signs pointing toward a looming heel turn.

Roman’s potential opponents include Jacob Fatu and Oba Femi, both positioned as fan favorites. To maintain the hero vs. villain dynamic, Reigns may need to embrace a heel persona. His dominance against babyfaces would recreate the tension that defined his previous Universal Championship run.

Since winning the 2026 Royal Rumble and claiming the world title, Reigns has been asserting authority over The Usos. His arrogance mirrors the behavior that led to The Bloodline’s implosion. Treating his cousins as subordinates could be the first step toward a full heel transformation.

WWE has reunited Reigns with The Usos, echoing the early days of The Bloodline. If he turns heel, he could reassert control by attacking Jacob Fatu, similar to how he once snapped on his cousins in 2020. This move would complete the circle and re-establish his ruthless dominance.

Triple H’s creative team often drops subtle clues. Recently, WWE brought back Reigns’ old heel theme song, sparking speculation. Experts view this as a deliberate signal of his impending turn. With Jacob Fatu lined up as a challenger, the timing could be perfect for Reigns to embrace his darker side.

Sabalenka Battles Past Osaka, Rybakina Falls to Potapova in Dramatic Madrid Open Day

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 13:01:00 +0530

Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina fell to a shock 7-6 (10/8), 6-4 defeat by Anastasia Potapova on Monday in the Madrid Open fourth round.

Earlier world number one Aryna Sabalenka overcame Naomi Osaka 6-7 (1/7), 6-3, 6-2 in a gripping battle to reach the quarter-finals.

Third seed Coco Gauff was eliminated in a three-set battle with Linda Noskova decided on a final set tie-break in an exciting fourth-round clash.

In the third round of the men's draw, second seed Alexander Zverev won in straight sets against Terence Atmane and Alexander Blockx earned a surprising win against world number five Felix Auger-Aliassime.

In the day's late match Kazakhstan's Rybakina, the world number two, was shocked by her 56th-ranked opponent.

Both players secured two breaks in the first set before Potapova edged Rybakina in the tie-break.

In the second set Rybakina captured her fifth break point of a long fifth game to nose ahead but lost the eighth and 10th games as Potapova triumphed.

"I'm speechless, I'm extremely happy, it was such a tough match and tough opponent," said Austria's Potapova.

"My team helped me today, they were there for me, big thanks (to them)."

Sabalenka, who has claimed titles at Miami, Indian Wells and Brisbane this year, was tested by her Japanese opponent but came back from a set and a break down to triumph.

"When (she) put me under pressure, I was able to pull out really incredible shots and incredible tennis. So I'm happy," said Sabalenka.

The first set between the two four-time Grand Slam winners was tight, with only one break point forced, by Sabalenka, which Osaka saved to hold for 2-1.

Osaka dominated in the tie-break, ripping into a 5-0 lead and then triumphing when Sabalenka lashed a return wide.

Reigning champion Sabalenka stepped up a gear in the second frame, although world number 15 Osaka dug deep to survive three break points and then managed to engineer a break for herself to take a 2-1 lead.

However, the Belarusian immediately broke to love and then again in the eighth game, serving out to take the second set.

Only Rybakina has beaten Sabalenka this year, in the Australian Open final, and the 27-year-old dominated in the third set, securing two breaks to triumph.

Sabalenka sealed her victory by serving to love with an ace to reach the last eight, where she will face American Hailey Baptiste, who beat Belinda Bencic in three sets, including losing a tie-break 16-14 in the second.

World number three Gauff, who had been dealing with a stomach bug this week, fell to a 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (7/5) defeat by Noskova.

The Czech earned a decisive break in the fifth game of the first set, but American Gauff secured two of her own to claim the second.

Gauff moved two breaks up in the third but let the match slip away from her as Noskova pulled back to level 4-4.

The American led 3-0 in the tie-break before again she could not hold on.

- Zverev progresses -

Two-time former Madrid champion Zverev, ranked third in the world, showed his quality as he defeated Atmane 6-3, 7-6 (7/2) to reach the fourth round.

Serving well, Zverev kept the Frenchman at arm's length in the first set with two breaks.

The second was closer with Atmane battling well, and Zverev spurned two match points before triumphing in the tie-break.

Young Belgian Blockx, ranked 69th in the world, caused a shock with a 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 victory over Canadian Auger-Aliassime, his first win against a top-10 player.

"I had so much confidence," he explained.

"I didn't even think about panicking or losing my serve.

"I was playing well in the rallies, too, so I knew even if I missed a few serves, I could play the rallies."

Daniil Medvedev, who has reached the quarter-finals in each of the last two years despite not being a fan of clay, beat Nicolai Budkov Kjaer 6-3, 6-2.

Casper Ruud eased to a 6-3, 6-1 win over Alejandro Davidovich Fokina to reach the last 16, while Stefanos Tsitsipas, Francisco Cerundolo, Flavio Cobolli and Jakub Mensik also progressed.

French Open Loses Its King! Carlos Alcaraz Fans Devastated As Star Pulls Out of Roland Garros

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 21:37:14 +0530

Tennis fans around the world were dealt a major blow on Friday after Carlos Alcaraz confirmed he will not defend his title at the French Open this year, opting instead to focus on recovering from a troubling wrist injury.

The 22-year-old, who has dominated clay in recent seasons, made the announcement via social media, ending days of uncertainty around his participation.

"After the results of the tests carried out today, we have decided that the most prudent thing is to be cautious and not participate in Rome and Roland Garros, while we wait to assess the evolution to decide when we will return to the court. It's a complicated moment for me, but I'm sure we'll come out stronger from here," Alcaraz said in a social media post.

Después de los resultados de las pruebas realizadas hoy, hemos decidido que lo más prudente es ser cautos y no participar en Roma y Roland Garros, a la espera de valorar la evolución para decidir cuándo volveremos a la pista. Es un momento complicado para mí, pero estoy seguro de… pic.twitter.com/U6PhjtXnBX

— Carlos Alcaraz (@carlosalcaraz) April 24, 2026

Wishing you all the best in your recovery Carlitos, we'll miss you

— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) April 24, 2026

A Painful Decision for a Champion

For fans, this isn’t just another withdrawal — it’s the absence of a two-time defending champion at the peak of his powers. Alcaraz has been one of the defining forces on clay, and his presence at Roland Garros was expected to be one of the tournament’s biggest draws.

But behind the scenes, the injury has clearly weighed heavily.

Just days earlier, Alcaraz had hinted that he might take this difficult route rather than risk long-term damage.

"I'd rather come back a little later but in great shape than come back early, rushing around, and unwell."

Injury Worse Than Expected

The problem began during the lead-up to the clay season, when Alcaraz was forced to pull out of the Barcelona tournament after feeling his wrist “give out on a return.” What initially seemed like a manageable issue soon escalated.

He later admitted the injury was “a more serious injury than any of us expected,” forcing him to also withdraw from the Madrid Open and ultimately rule himself out of Paris.

For a player known for his explosive style and relentless intensity, the decision to step back underscores the severity of the situation.

Long-Term Vision Over Short-Term Glory

Alcaraz had earlier made it clear that this decision is about protecting his future, even if it means missing out on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

"God willing, I have a very long career ahead of me, many years, and pushing myself too hard at this Roland Garros could seriously harm me in future tournaments."

"Things happen in the professional world. You have to accept them," he said. "I need to recover really well if I don't want it to affect me later on."

It’s a mature call from a young player — but one that comes at a cost.

A Season of Highs Interrupted

Before the injury setback, Alcaraz was in formidable form. He had strung together 17 consecutive wins on clay, carrying momentum from last season where he lifted titles in Rome and Paris.

However, his recent loss to Jannik Sinner in the Monte Carlo Masters final saw him surrender the world number one ranking — a rare stumble in an otherwise dominant run.

Now, the focus shifts entirely to recovery.

A French Open Without Its King

Alcaraz’s absence leaves a massive void at the French Open. For fans, it’s not just about missing a top contender — it’s about losing a player who brought energy, flair, and unpredictability to every match.

The clay courts of Paris will feel different this year. Quieter, perhaps. Less electric.

And as the tournament approaches, one thing is certain — the heartbreak isn’t just Alcaraz’s. It belongs to millions who were waiting to watch him light up Roland Garros once again.

Here's a look at how Alcaraz fans reacted to his post:

Carlos Alcaraz won’t be able to defend Rome and Roland Garros this year. Heartbreaking for us and most of all for him, but recovering fully is the most important.Let’s all show him all the support we can ❤️‍ https://t.co/rylgwYjoZ2

— Carlos Alcaraz Daily (@alcarazdaily) April 24, 2026

this is incredibly sad i hope he recovers very well:( https://t.co/1fPmCNrv2v

— cherry (@kobzford) April 24, 2026

Big news in Tennis, Carlos Alcaraz the defending champion at @rolandgarros has announced he is withdrawing from the event as well as the Rome Masters.The French Open is still almost a month away from starting so must be something serious.Wish him well. https://t.co/vhcMZc9t9q

— Pavvy G (@pavyg) April 24, 2026

Good decision Carlos! Hopefully he can come back strong for Wimbledon. https://t.co/ZhnRp8S2yg

— Vansh (@vanshv2k) April 24, 2026

I’M DEVASTATED https://t.co/GxeygWZrIm

— math (@mathhedu) April 24, 2026

Honestly this is a very sad but a very smart decision. Entire careers have been screwed over by wrist injuries. Rest up my champ https://t.co/ChLp3ZavqV

— Saoirse for President (@2601Reva59892) April 24, 2026

this is so fucking sad to read... https://t.co/0BgfO3s3fQ

— val (@cowboylikesue) April 24, 2026

Get better soon!

— romilda (@RomildaVisconti) April 24, 2026

Absolute bummer! The @rolandgarros won't be the same without you, Carlos. Most of us still remember THE final last year. :-) Hope you feel better soon.

— Amit Pande (@amitlpande) April 24, 2026

No Carlos, no life, no tennis but goat get well soon, we love you ❤️‍

— toska⁷ (@drvilsi) April 24, 2026

You are strong, championPlease do what's best for youAlways here to support youLove ❤️ x

— Journo (@uk_journalist) April 24, 2026

Victor Wembanyama Injury Update: What Happened to the DPOY & When Will He Return to NBA Playoffs Action?

Vaishnav Akash — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:10:00 +0530

San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama was placed in the NBA’s concussion protocol after a frightening fall during Tuesday night’s playoff game against the Portland Trail Blazers. The incident occurred in the second quarter, forcing him out as Portland rallied to a 106-103 win, leveling the series at one game apiece.

A Spurs official confirmed Wembanyama is being evaluated for a concussion, with a decision expected within 24 hours. Under NBA guidelines, players in concussion protocol must remain inactive for at least 48 hours and pass neurological testing before clearance.

The 7ft 4in French center, named Defensive Player of the Year on Monday, had scored five points with four rebounds, one block, and one assist in 12 minutes before exiting. His absence looms large for San Antonio, which finished with the league’s second-best record behind his dominant season.

Spurs Falter Late Without Their Star

The injury occurred when Wembanyama spun past Jrue Holiday in the paint, was fouled, and fell face-first, striking his jaw on the floor. He remained down for about 30 seconds before teammate Stephon Castle spoke with him. Spurs coach Mitch Johnson called timeout, and Wembanyama walked to the locker room.

San Antonio initially looked capable of surviving without him, building a 14-point lead early in the fourth quarter. But their offense collapsed in the final minutes, failing to score a field goal over the last 3:37. Portland closed on an 11-2 run to seal the comeback.

Scoot Henderson led the Trail Blazers with 31 points, while Holiday added 16 points and nine assists. Deni Avdija contributed 14, and Robert Williams III delivered 11, including a decisive alley-oop dunk with 12 seconds left. Castle paced San Antonio with 18 points, De’Aaron Fox scored 17, and Devin Vassell posted 16 points and 12 rebounds.

Game 3 is scheduled for Friday in Portland, with Wembanyama’s status uncertain.

Teammate Dylan Harper described his brief exchange with Wembanyama after the fall: “He spun, hit his head and it was over. I tried to talk to him. He was like, ‘I’m good, my head just hurts a little bit.’ We’re obviously gonna pray for him.” Harper added, “He’s one of the toughest guys I know, so he’s gonna shake back real quick.”

San Antonio are in the playoffs for the first time since 2019, and Wembanyama’s breakout season has been central to their resurgence. Averaging 25 points, 11.5 rebounds, and a league-best 3.1 blocks, he became the first unanimous Defensive Player of the Year at age 22. His recovery will be closely monitored as the Spurs attempt to regain control of the series.

4 WWE Exits That May Not Last Long as Comebacks Loom Large

Vaishnav Akash — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:12:43 +0530

WWE’s post-WrestleMania 42 roster cuts surprised fans, especially with big names involved. Yet history shows that departures don’t always last forever. Here are four released stars who could realistically return to the company soon.

Kairi Sane’s release shocked fans as she was central to RAW’s feud involving Asuka and IYO SKY. After defeating SKY before WrestleMania 42, her exit abruptly ended the angle. Fans flooded social media demanding her return, echoing R-Truth’s rehiring last year. WWE could bring her back to resume the storyline and capitalize on her popularity.

Aleister Black returned to WWE after AEW but never fully regained momentum. His feud with Damian Priest showed promise, and he even defeated Randy Orton before WrestleMania 42. Reports suggested he was originally planned to be Orton’s ally at the event before Pat McAfee replaced him. With WWE’s prior plans in mind, Black could be reintroduced to continue his dark storyline.

Zelina Vega’s release came alongside her husband Aleister Black. She had been involved in key angles and paired with Black during his feud with Damian Priest. Given her established presence and fan following, WWE could easily bring her back to strengthen the women’s division or rejoin Black in a storyline if he returns.

Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin debuted in WWE in 2024 and quickly won the Tag Team Championship. However, they lost steam and were eventually released. With SmackDown’s tag division weakened after departures of teams like DIY and The Wyatt Sicks, WWE could rehire MCMG to revitalize the division. Their experience also makes them valuable mentors for younger talent.

5 Major Reasons WWE Fired Multiple Stars Following WrestleMania 42 Shocking Roster Shakeup

Vaishnav Akash — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 14:15:00 +0530

WrestleMania 42 was a spectacle, but the aftermath brought a wave of roster cuts that left fans talking. WWE parted ways with several stars, continuing a trend of annual mass releases. Here are five reasons why the company may have made these moves.

Over the past few years, WWE has consistently trimmed its roster after WrestleMania. Last year saw names like Braun Strowman, Sonya Deville, and Cedric Alexander released. This year’s list included Kairi Sane, Aleister Black, Zelina, Uncle Howdy, Nikki Cross, Santos Escobar, Motor City Machine Guns, Dexter Lumis, Apollo Crews, and more. The pattern suggests WWE views these cuts as routine business.

Some stars simply lacked storylines. Aleister Black had been teased as Randy Orton’s mystery caller but never followed through. The Wyatt Sicks were involved in a feud with the MFTs, but once that ended, they had no creative path forward. Without meaningful roles, WWE may have decided these talents no longer fit into long-term plans.

The NXT roster is stacked with emerging talent. Oba Femi vacated his NXT Championship and moved to RAW, where he defeated Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 42. Sol Ruca appeared on RAW after the event, Ricky Saints debuted on SmackDown, and Ethan Page joined the red brand. With fresh stars ready to shine, WWE cleared space by releasing established names.

Both RAW and SmackDown are loaded with talent, sometimes to the point of overcrowding. By releasing several performers, WWE opened slots for new faces to make an impact. This revamp ensures the shows remain fresh and allows NXT call-ups to integrate smoothly into the main roster.

Mass releases often stem from financial strategy. WWE may have struggled to maintain its salary cap, prompting cuts to preserve profit margins. Stars who weren’t contributing significantly to storylines or growth were let go to balance costs. Budget management remains a recurring reason behind these decisions.

5 Dream WWE Matches Triple H Fears To Book Because the Stakes Are Too Dangerously High

Vaishnav Akash — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 10:33:18 +0530

Dream matches are the lifeblood of WWE, but not every fantasy clash makes it to the ring. Triple H has avoided booking certain encounters because the stakes are simply too high. Here are five dream matches he is too cautious to book.

The Tribal Chief against The Ring General is the ultimate clash of philosophies. Both have been dominant forces, yet they’ve never crossed paths. Booking this match risks damaging either aura. If Reigns loses, his indomitable image fades. If Gunther fails, his unstoppable reputation crumbles. Triple H has avoided this paradox of the unstoppable.

Reigns and Rhodes have split victories at WrestleMania, making a trilogy inevitable. But Triple H fears booking it too soon, as it represents his biggest remaining bullet. Whoever wins will be remembered as the better man, while the loser risks being defined by failure. The stakes make this decision extremely difficult.

Fans have long wanted CM Punk and Cody Rhodes to collide. Both are built as ultimate heroes, sharing similar motivations and ideologies. Pitting them against each other risks undermining one of WWE’s biggest babyfaces. A loss for Rhodes would weaken his standing as company face, while Punk losing again after Reigns would kill his momentum.

This fantasy match has quickly become a fan obsession. Reigns is the benchmark for WrestleMania main eventers, while Femi is seen as the heir to the throne. Booking it now would be a gamble too great. A loss for Femi would halt his rise, while Reigns losing to a rookie would tarnish his legacy.

Gunther has retired Goldberg, John Cena, and AJ Styles, while Oba Femi defeated Brock Lesnar in his WrestleMania debut. A collision between The Ring General and The Ruler would be explosive, but neither can afford a loss. Gunther’s credibility would suffer if beaten by a rising star, while Femi’s momentum would stall if he fell to a veteran.

Jannik Sinner Chases Historic Fifth Masters 1000 Crown As Madrid Open Delivers Stunning Upsets

Asianet Newsable English — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 15:45:00 +0530

Jannik Sinner took a first step towards a potential record fifth consecutive Masters 1000 title with a 6-7 (6/8), 6-1, 6-4 victory over Benjamin Bonzi in the Madrid Open second round on Friday.

The Italian world number one is looking to beat the record of four consecutive triumphs held by all-time greats Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal this week in the Spanish capital.

Sinner dropped only one set on the way to trophies in Paris, Indian Wells, Miami and Monte Carlo, but Bonzi battled brilliantly to claim the first at the Manolo Santana stadium.

The Frenchman survived five break points to reach a tie-break, where he also saved set point before edging ahead.

However Sinner stepped up a gear in the second set, securing breaks in the fourth and sixth games, and another in the third on his way to the third round.

"It was a tough match, I had some chances early on and I couldn't use them, but this is tennis," said four-time Grand Slam winner Sinner.

"It's not bad to start the tournament like this, two and a half hours on court, it gives me good feedback where we need to improve for the next round.

"Of course, we need to improve, but I'm also happy, when you're not playing your best tennis and win, it's still a good result."

With Sinner's biggest rival Carlos Alcaraz injured and unable to compete either this week or in the upcoming French Open, the Italian is overwhelming favourite for every competition he enters in the weeks ahead.

Earlier, Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic sent world number six Ben Shelton crashing out with a 6-4, 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (7/5) victory.

Promising 20-year-old Prizmic, ranked 87th, secured his first ever win over a top-10 player in a three-hour battle in the Spanish capital.

American Shelton triumphed at the Munich Open on Sunday on clay but was unable to force a single break point on Prizmic's serve.

Shelton's compatriot Tommy Paul also suffered a surprise early exit, falling 7-5, 6-4 against Argentine Thiago Tirante.

Spaniard Rafael Jodar, 19, who impressed with a run to the Barcelona Open semi-finals last week, dumped out world number eight Alex de Minaur 6-3, 6-1.

"Everything went very well," said Jodar. "De Minaur is a very tough opponent, and I knew what I had to do from the very beginning."

- 'I basically survived' -

Women's number two Elena Rybakina scraped into the Madrid Open third round with a 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 win over Gabriela Ruse.

Kazakhstan's Rybakina, who won the Australian Open in January and triumphed at Stuttgart last week, struggled in the first set, making 24 unforced errors to just eight winners.

After claiming a topsy-turvy second set, she came back from a break down in the third and sealed the victory on her third match point.

Rybakina will meet Zheng Qinwen, who produced a similarly battling performance to overcome Sofia Kenin, in the third round.

"Today, I basically survived," said Rybakina after her hard-fought victory.

"It wasn't the greatest performance but Gabriela, she played very well. She was playing very deep and aggressive, so it was very difficult.

"My serve was not really helping me today... but I'm really happy that I managed to win, and I hope I can bring better tennis next round."

Last year's runner-up and the third seed Coco Gauff made light work of Leolia Jeanjean with a 6-3, 6-0 victory at the Arantxa Sanchez stadium.

Gauff will take on Romanian Sorana Cirstea in the third round, after she defeated Tyra Caterina Grant in straight sets.

Fifth seed Jessica Pegula defeated Briton Katie Boulter 6-4, 6-4 in the late match on the main court to close out the day's action.

3 Ruthless Moves Randy Orton Could Unleash on WWE SmackDown After WrestleMania 42 Loss

Vaishnav Akash — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 15:41:29 +0530

WWE WrestleMania 42 left Randy Orton battered and defeated, but Viper is never one to stay quiet. With Cody Rhodes reportedly sidelined, Orton may find other ways to make his presence felt on SmackDown. Here are three possible paths he could take.

Nick Aldis, the SmackDown general manager and close friend of Cody Rhodes, could become Orton’s next victim. The Apex Predator has attacked Aldis before, and striking him again would be a direct way to provoke Rhodes without physical contact. Orton’s disregard for authority makes this scenario believable, and leaving Aldis bloodied would intensify his feud with The American Nightmare.

Orton’s short-lived alliance with Pat McAfee ended at WrestleMania 42, leaving him alone in his battle against Rhodes. Historically, The Viper thrives when backed by a faction, from Evolution to Legacy. Post-WrestleMania season often brings NXT call-ups, and rumors suggest Ricky Saints could debut soon.

Aligning with Saints would give Orton fresh backup while striking at Rhodes personally, since Saints is known to be close to the champion. A new heel faction led by Orton could shift the balance of power on SmackDown.

Reports before WrestleMania 42 noted Orton was hurting, and his back issues were visible during the match. On SmackDown, he could play into that reality by quitting WWE in storyline. Expressing anger over his loss to Rhodes and announcing his departure would shock fans. It could also serve as a cover for time off if he needs recovery. The move would set up a dramatic return before a major event like SummerSlam 2026, reigniting his feud with Rhodes once both men are cleared.

5 WWE Stars Who Could Drag Brock Lesnar Back for One Last Shocking Retirement Showdown

Vaishnav Akash — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 09:55:57 +0530

WWE fans know Brock Lesnar rarely stays away for long. While he appeared to step away after WrestleMania 42, several stars have the potential to force The Beast Incarnate back into action. Here are five names who could make it happen.

Cody Rhodes and Brock Lesnar’s rivalry began after WrestleMania 39, when Lesnar betrayed The American Nightmare. Their three-match series ended with Rhodes victorious at SummerSlam. Now holding the Undisputed WWE Championship, Rhodes could tempt Lesnar with one final opportunity at the gold. A chance to rewrite their history might be enough to convince The Beast to lace up his boots again.

Bron Breakker has the explosiveness and raw power to stand toe-to-toe with Lesnar. Though not as massive, his sudden bursts of offense mirror The Beast’s style. With Paul Heyman guiding Breakker, much like he once did Lesnar, a showdown between Heyman’s past and present clients could be inevitable. A retirement match against Breakker would be a fitting way for Lesnar to pass the torch.

Oba Femi shocked the wrestling world by defeating Lesnar decisively at WrestleMania 42. The loss was so sudden and dominant that it stunned fans and Lesnar alike. While emotions ran high in the aftermath, Femi could later offer Lesnar a chance at redemption. A rematch framed as Lesnar’s official retirement bout would allow The Beast to confront the man who humbled him.

Roman Reigns, another star molded under Heyman’s influence, remains a dominant force as World Heavyweight Champion. Lesnar and Reigns have crossed paths countless times, but with Heyman now aligned with the Vision, the advocate could orchestrate one more collision. A final clash between The Tribal Chief and The Beast would carry championship stakes and storyline weight, making it a blockbuster draw.

Gunther has built his reputation by dismantling WWE legends, from AJ Styles to John Cena. His transactional deal with Heyman after WrestleMania 42 could set the stage for one more conquest. Facing Lesnar at SummerSlam in Minneapolis, near Lesnar’s hometown, would be symbolic. For Gunther, defeating The Beast would cement his legacy, while for Lesnar, it could serve as a fitting farewell on a grand stage.

5 WWE Stars Who Could Replace Jacob Fatu As Roman Reigns’ Backlash 2026 Title Challenger

Vaishnav Akash — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:45:00 +0530

If Jacob Fatu doesn’t make it to WWE Backlash 2026, Roman Reigns won’t be short of rivals. These five names stand out as possible replacements, each bringing history, momentum, or fan demand to the table.

Gunther has been dominant on RAW, with his last singles pinfall loss dating back to SummerSlam 2025. He retired Goldberg, John Cena, and AJ Styles, and at WrestleMania 42, he pinned Seth Rollins in a marquee bout. The Ring General has already teased chasing the world title, making him a natural replacement if Fatu backs out.

Oba Femi stunned the WWE Universe by defeating Brock Lesnar in under five minutes at WrestleMania 42. On RAW, he teased a showdown with Roman Reigns, and Reigns promised to smash him if it happened. While they haven’t crossed paths since, Femi’s victory over Lesnar makes him a compelling option for Backlash 2026. Fans would relish a clash between The Ruler and The Tribal Chief.

CM Punk lost his World Heavyweight Championship to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42 after a thrilling battle. On RAW, Punk admitted he was ready for another chance and would wait for the opportunity. Backlash has a history of hosting WrestleMania rematches, making Punk vs. Reigns a logical option if Fatu is unavailable. Fans would welcome another chapter in their rivalry.

LA Knight has history with Roman Reigns, having faced him at Crown Jewel 2023 in an Undisputed WWE Championship match. Though he lost, Knight remains popular with fans and voiced his desire for another world title opportunity after WrestleMania 42. His heated backstage exchange with Gunther only added fuel. Booking Knight in the main event scene again would capitalize on his fan support.

Drew McIntyre’s issues with Roman Reigns and the Bloodline are well-documented. Currently on SmackDown, McIntyre could be shifted to RAW to reignite his feud with Reigns. A Backlash 2026 showdown would be a guaranteed hard-hitting contest. With both stars’ popularity, the match would generate buzz and boost ticket sales.

5 WWE Stars Who Could Retire AJ Lee and Give Her a Fitting Farewell in the Ring

Vaishnav Akash — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:40:00 +0530

AJ Lee’s return to WWE storylines has sparked speculation about who might be chosen to retire her for good. The company has several strong candidates who could give her a memorable farewell. Here are 5 stars who could be booked.

Roxanne Perez has often cited AJ Lee as her inspiration, even being affectionately referred to as AJ’s wrestling daughter. This real‑life connection makes her the most fitting candidate to retire AJ. A storyline where Perez defeats her idol would be deeply meaningful, symbolizing a generational clash and passing of the torch. It would give AJ a poetic exit while elevating Perez as the future face of women’s wrestling.

Sol Ruca’s recent main roster debut has already shown her potential. At 26, she is seen as a future star destined for the main event. Retiring AJ Lee would catapult her into the spotlight and establish her as a major player in the division. Such a victory would showcase her as capable of carrying the women’s division, while giving AJ a memorable farewell against a rising talent.

Liv Morgan has risen to the top of WWE, holding the Women’s World Championship and becoming one of the division’s biggest names. A clash with AJ Lee is considered a dream match by fans. If WWE books Morgan to retire AJ, it would be a career‑defining moment for The Miracle Kid, elevating her further while giving AJ a dramatic send‑off against a peer who embodies the grit of today’s women’s division.

Bayley’s history with AJ Lee dates back over a decade to their NXT encounter for the Divas Championship. Their 2026 match on RAW tapped into that past but lacked the weight of a true storyline. A heel Bayley retiring AJ would feel poetic, closing their long‑standing history and giving Bayley the spotlight she has long deserved. It would also serve as a powerful character shift for The Role Model.

Lyra Valkyria has quickly become a fan favorite and the inaugural Women’s Intercontinental Champion. At 29, she has the potential to cement herself as a top singles star. A generational clash with AJ Lee would validate her as a main‑event talent while giving AJ a respectful exit. Such a match would symbolize the evolution of women’s wrestling and mark a passing of the torch moment.

5 Strong Factors Setting Up Cody Rhodes vs. CM Punk At WWE WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia

Vaishnav Akash — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:50:02 +0530

WWE fans are already speculating about Cody Rhodes vs. CM Punk at WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia. The path to this dream clash could unfold through several booking decisions. Here are five steps that might lead to the showdown.

After WrestleMania 42, Randy Orton attacked Rhodes with a Punt Kick, signaling unfinished business. WWE could book a rematch at Backlash 2026, where Orton dethrones Rhodes. Losing the Undisputed Championship would free Cody to move to RAW, setting the stage for his eventual rivalry with CM Punk.

While Rhodes turning heel is possible, WWE may prefer to keep him a babyface due to his popularity. Punk, however, has thrived as a heel before. A return to his darker persona would make the feud more compelling, with Punk cutting scathing promos against Rhodes to build anticipation for WrestleMania 43.

Since returning, Punk has been a fixture on RAW. After losing the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 42, he could switch brands to SmackDown. This move would place him directly in Rhodes’ path, especially if Cody regains momentum on the blue brand, creating a natural collision course.

WWE could pair Rhodes and Punk in the tag team division, revitalizing a stagnant scene. The duo might even capture tag titles together. On the Road to WrestleMania 43, one could betray the other, sparking a heated rivalry. This betrayal would add personal stakes to their eventual clash in Saudi Arabia.

Another possible setup involves both Rhodes and Punk entering the 2027 Royal Rumble. A rare double elimination spot could sow seeds of animosity. Their rivalry would then intensify in the weeks leading to WrestleMania 43, culminating in a marquee match that fans would eagerly anticipate.

4 WWE Champions Whose Reigns Have Lost Steam and Must End To Spark New Rivalries Soon

Vaishnav Akash — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:45:00 +0530

Several WWE champions are holding gold without elevating their divisions. From Cody Rhodes to Becky Lynch, here are four titleholders who should lose their belts soon to refresh storylines and boost fan interest.

Paul Heyman pushed Logan Paul and Austin Theory to capture the World Tag Team Championship from The Usos, and they eventually succeeded. Yet their reign has failed to spark RAW’s tag division. They didn’t even defend the belts at WrestleMania 42, instead competing in a six-man tag. With Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins back, the Street Profits look primed to take the titles and revive the division.

Priest and R-Truth became champions by defeating the MFTs in March and have defended the belts against multiple teams. While popular, their reign feels transitional. SmackDown’s tag division needs fresh energy, and Fraxiom are the logical successors. The former NXT stars have been consistently featured and could bring credibility back to the blue brand’s tag scene.

Becky Lynch defeated AJ Lee at WrestleMania 42 to win her third Women’s Intercontinental Championship. While the victory was significant, Lynch doesn’t need a lengthy mid-card reign. The title would be better served elevating rising stars like Sol Ruca, Bayley, or Lyra Valkyria. Lynch should move into main-event feuds or personal rivalries, leaving the championship to someone who can benefit more.

Cody Rhodes retained his title against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42, but the match fell flat with fans. His third reign as Undisputed Champion hasn’t connected, and the involvement of outside names like Jelly Roll and Pat McAfee only hurt the storyline. The solution is simple: Rhodes should drop the belt. Randy Orton winning his 15th world title would refresh the SmackDown main event scene.

Sony’s AI Robot Stuns Table Tennis World By Beating Elite Human Players In Competitive Matches (WATCH)

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:59:43 +0530

Robots can run a half-marathon, box, and now beat elite human table tennis players, Sony's artificial intelligence unit said in research published Thursday.

A team from the Japanese company built an AI-powered robotic arm clutching a ping-pong paddle that can perceive, react to and return the "the blistering speed and spin of elite-level table tennis".

The research was published in the journal Nature.

"Ace" is a bulky industrial robot as big as the table tennis table, but is able to make split-second decisions and execute agile movements with power, according to Sony AI.

The noisy player, characterised by constant whirrs, rattles and a vigorously moving arm, faced five elite players and two professionals.

It won three out of five matches against the elite group, while other matches were "competitive," the company said.

But Ace continued to improve its performance even after the paper was submitted to Nature, winning more recent matches against professionals with higher shot speeds, more aggressive placement closer to the table edge, and faster-paced rallies, Sony AI said.

"By solving a problem that requires exceptional real-time sensing and control, this research lays the groundwork for AI systems that can safely and reliably operate in dynamic physical environments, ranging from safety-critical settings to real-time interactive domains," it said.

Previous table tennis playing robots could hold rallies, but never went beyond the amateur level, Sony AI said.

"Once AI can operate at an expert human level under these conditions, it opens the door to an entirely new class of real-world applications that were previously out of reach," said Peter Stone, Chief Scientist at Sony AI.

5 WrestleMania 42 Injuries That May Change WWE Storylines & Championship Plans Completely

Vaishnav Akash — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:20:00 +0530

WrestleMania 42 delivered unforgettable drama, but left top WWE names battered. From Cody Rhodes’ swollen eye to Seth Rollins’ rib damage, these injuries could reshape rivalries and creative plans moving forward.

Finn Balor resurrected The Demon persona to defeat Dominik Mysterio in a Street Fight at WrestleMania 42, seemingly unscathed. However, during RAW against JD McDonagh, Balor was seen bleeding from his mouth after a commercial break. While the cause remains unclear, Balor completed the match and post-segment angle, suggesting the injury was not severe. Still, the incident added intrigue to his ongoing storyline.

Bron Breakker’s shocking return at WrestleMania 42 set the stage for his feud with Seth Rollins. On RAW, Rollins attacked Breakker with a steel chair, but the shot landed higher than intended, connecting with Breakker’s head.

The Dog of WWE suffered a deep gash and bled heavily, yet continued the segment by delivering two spears to Rollins. Having just returned from a hernia-related hiatus, Breakker’s resilience was notable, though the injury raised concerns about his durability.

The Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes endured a brutal battle against Randy Orton in the Night One main event. The American Nightmare’s left eye was swollen shut after a stiff punch from Orton, leaving him visibly impaired.

Rhodes appeared on RAW with a black eye during a promo with CM Punk, but WWE confirmed he is not cleared to compete and has entered concussion protocol. His absence from scheduled appearances underscores the severity of the injury.

Seth Rollins faced Gunther in a technical showcase, but the bout took a devastating turn when Bron Breakker returned and speared Rollins mid-match. The Architect passed out to Gunther’s sleeper hold and later absorbed another spear from Breakker, this time charging from the stage to ringside.

Rollins sustained a rib injury, evident on RAW where he appeared taped up and endured two more spears from Breakker. His worsening condition could stall his momentum in the feud.

Rumors of Randy Orton’s health struggles proved true at WrestleMania 42. The Viper favored his back throughout the match with Rhodes, and post-show footage revealed him limping backstage. Jackie Redmond reported that Orton took nearly ten minutes to reach the ramp, moving slowly and appearing disoriented. With his history of back problems, Orton’s condition raises questions about his availability for upcoming creative plans.

5 Shocking Consequences if Roman Reigns Loses WWE World Heavyweight Title at Backlash 2026

Vaishnav Akash — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:14:29 +0530

Roman Reigns’ reign as WWE World Heavyweight Champion could end at Backlash 2026. From Jacob Fatu claiming the Ula Fala to a possible reunion with Paul Heyman, here are five major consequences if Reigns loses.

If Fatu defeats Reigns, he will inherit the Ula Fala, the sacred Samoan necklace symbolizing Tribal Chief status. This would mark the most significant transfer of power in WWE’s Samoan dynasty, giving Fatu symbolic authority and reshaping the family hierarchy.

The Usos reunited with Reigns after WrestleMania, but their allegiance has always depended on his dominance. A loss to Fatu could push Jey and Jimmy to acknowledge him instead, leaving Reigns isolated once again and fracturing the Bloodline.

Reigns has taken extended breaks before, including after WrestleMania 40. Losing clean to Fatu could lead him to step away from WWE television through the summer, returning at SummerSlam with a refreshed character.

The Rock endorsed Reigns as Tribal Chief by placing the Ula Fala on him in 2025. If Reigns loses it, The Great One could return to hold him accountable, setting up a family feud that builds toward WrestleMania 43.

Reigns’ greatest run was built alongside Paul Heyman. Since their split, Heyman has managed The Vision. A Backlash loss could drive Reigns back to his former Wiseman, reigniting their partnership and restoring his aura as WWE’s most dangerous star.

4 WWE Rivalries That Risk Losing Momentum By Dragging On Too Long After WrestleMania 42

Vaishnav Akash — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:14:04 +0530

WWE rivalries after WrestleMania 42 continue, but some feuds risk overstaying their welcome. From Finn Balor vs Dominik Mysterio to Liv Morgan’s title defense, fans worry momentum may fade without fresh storylines.

At WrestleMania 42, Finn Balor revived his “Demon” persona to defeat Dominik Mysterio in a brutal Street Fight. The victory felt symbolic, closing a chapter in their feud. Yet on RAW, Dominik attacked Balor after his win over JD McDonagh, reigniting hostilities. Fans argue Balor should now pursue the World Heavyweight Championship, while Dominik’s growing popularity deserves a fresh babyface opponent.

Liv Morgan dethroned Stephanie Vaquer in a short six‑minute match, becoming a three‑time Women’s World Champion. The brevity was attributed to minor injuries, but the title change still felt significant. Instead of moving forward, WWE booked Vaquer to confront Morgan the next night, demanding a rematch. Many believe this immediate continuation undermines Vaquer’s 210‑day reign and prevents Morgan from establishing her new era against challengers like Sol Ruca.

Fans have long awaited a singles showdown between IYO SKY and Asuka. WrestleMania 42 seemed the perfect stage, but creative kept IYO aligned with Rhea Ripley while Asuka remained in tag matches. On RAW, SKY and Ripley faced Asuka and Kairi Sane, again avoiding the singles clash. Reports suggest the match is set for Backlash, but repeated delays risk exhausting fan interest before the rivalry reaches its peak.

The Judgment Day faction has thrived on internal drama, but the storyline risks stagnation. Balor’s WrestleMania victory should have resolved his issues with Dominik, yet WWE continues looping the conflict. Without progression, the group’s tension may lose its edge, leaving fans less invested in what was once one of the most compelling arcs.

Hailey Baptiste Stuns Aryna Sabalenka In Madrid, Ending World Number 1’s 15‑Match Winning Streak

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:10:00 +0530

Hailey Baptiste ended Aryna Sabalenka’s title defence in Madrid on Tuesday and halted the world number one's 15-match winning streak with a 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 (8/6) quarter-final victory to deliver the biggest shock of the tournament so far.

The American saved five match points at 4-5 in the decider and a sixth in the tiebreak before she handed Sabalenka just her second defeat of the year, and her first since the Australian Open final three months ago.

Sabalenka is a three-time champion in Madrid and reached the final in the Spanish capital in each of the last three editions of the event but was unable to shake off the 30th-seeded Baptiste, who peppered her with huge serves and ultra-aggressive groundstrokes to reach a maiden WTA 1000 semi-final.

Baptiste came up with huge serves in several crucial moments – finishing the duel with a total of 12 aces and 10 double faults – and even saved a match point with a bold serve-and-volley approach on her way to a memorable two-hour 30-minute triumph.

"I feel incredible... It was a super tight match, 7-6 in the third, I had to fight off some match points,” Baptiste said.

"It just shows me where my game lies, and I've always believed it. And I feel like now I'm starting to put it into action, and the world is seeing it as well. So I'm very confident right now."

Next up for the 24-year-old Baptiste is ninth-seeded Mirra Andreeva, who gave herself an early birthday gift by defeating Canadian Leylah Fernandez 7-6(7/1), 6-3 to reach her first Madrid semi-final.

The Russian teenager, who turns 19 on Wednesday, was a recent champion in Linz and improved her clay-court record to 11-1 this season.

Earlier in the day, Jannik Sinner suggested the Madrid Open organisers should reconsider their tournament scheduling to avoid late-night finishes like the one Rafael Jodar experienced in the third round on Sunday.

In a rare 11:00 am start on Tuesday, Sinner moved past British 19th seed Cameron Norrie 6-2, 7-5 to reach the quarter-finals.

He explained he was put on first on Manolo Santana Stadium so that Jodar, his potential next opponent, would be scheduled in the afternoon to give the Spaniard time to recover from his three-set win over Joao Fonseca that ended at 1:00 am on Monday morning.

- Unusual early start -

"It's quite unusual for me," Sinner told Tennis TV about his early kick-off.

"There was a question if it would be me or Jodar to play at 4. But I think it's right he plays at 4, because he finished very, very late.

"But at the same time, I feel like we need to make some adjustments to the scheduling of the day. Two matches (starting) from 8pm is very late.

"Even though you have one day in between. But still it's very, very late.

"You finish at 1:30am, and you need to eat, you need to have treatment, so it's very late. But we try to adapt ourselves, our bodies, our minds, so from my side it was a good performance today."

Sinner, who is bidding to reach the semi-finals for the first time in the Spanish capital, will next face 19-year-old Jodar in what will be a highly-anticipated last-eight showdown.

Jodar's dream run on home soil continued with a convincing 7-5, 6-0 thumping of world number 66 Vit Kopriva.

Casper Ruud fought back from the brink to keep his title defence alive with a 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/3) victory over former finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas.

In a high-quality three-hour contest, Tsitsipas led 5-3 in the decider, holding two match points, and served for the victory at 5-4, but Ruud, who was 0/11 in break points up until then, found a way to take down the Greek's serve and went on to clinch the tie-break.

Ruud will square off with 21-year-old Belgian Alexander Blockx for a semi-final spot.

Last week's Barcelona champion Arthur Fils advanced to the quarter-finals at the Caja Magica with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Argentine 25th seed Tomas Martin Etcheverry.

The Frenchman will take on Jiri Lehecka, who beat sixth-seeded Italian Lorenzo Musetti 6-3, 6-3, for a place in the last four.

AFP (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)