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!
Royal Rumble to have no fans
After rumors of WWE wanting fans in the arena for Royal Rumble this year, it's looking like the event will be held in the usual ThunderDome setup. While plans are subject to change, right now they will be proceeding as they have since August. (Source: Living the Gimmick)
We say: Don't bet on it, even if the Capitol Wrestling Center is able to have fans.
Carlito update
In an update on Carlito's absence from RAW this week, he apparently turned down a cameo appearance on the show. Carlito reportedly would have accepted if he was going to wrestle a match, but did not prefer to travel for a brief cameo on the show. (Source: PWInsider)
We say: Honestly, good for him. He should at least have been considered for Jeff Hardy's spot in the match against Randy Orton. Even legends should demand something better treatment from WWE.
Timothy Thatcher not injured
Timothy Thatcher is reportedly not injured despite the storyline on this week's NXT. The Fight Pit match with Tommaso Ciampa was pulled from the show for logistical reasons, and WWE simply wrote them out with an injury angle. It is unclear so far whether the Fight Pit match would proceed on another week, only that it will happen eventually. (Source: PWInsider)
We say: At least they made the effort to explain it away.
Let us know what you think of today's news in the comments!
Photo from WWE
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