Welcome to the Grapevine! This section of Smark Henry is where we round up all the important founded and unfounded rumors floating around the pro wrestling scene that you may have missed over the past few days. Remember to take everything with a grain of salt!
Meiko Satomura officially signs with WWE
Legendary joshi wrestler Meiko Satomura's signing with WWE has been confirmed. Satomura had been in the UK since January 6, training at the UK Performance Center ahead of her debut on NXT UK. Satomura remains president of the Sendai Girls promotion despite being signed to WWE. (Source: Yahoo Japan)
We say: We're just glad she isn't shifu. Just kidding—this is absolutely huge for NXT UK, and if she can stay on the brand then it will have gained a big name it really needs.
Rhea Ripley to be in women's Royal Rumble?
One likely surprise entrant for the women's Royal Rumble is former NXT Women's Champion Rhea Ripley. She was apparently scheduled to debut on the main roster two weeks ago but those plans were obviously shelved, and it's being speculated that the Rumble may be the avenue where she debuts. So far, there are only 12 announced Superstars for the women's Rumble. (Source: Wrestling Observer Radio)
We say: With her absence from NXT TV, this is looking more like a done deal. Expect a bunch of other NXT women in the match as well.
Let us know what you think of today's news in the comments!
Photo from WWE
: Meiko Satomura Officially Signed With WWE, Rhea Ripley Potential Royal Rumble Surprise){kind=link}