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!
Details on Paul Wight's WWE departure and AEW signing
Paul Wight, formerly known as the Big Show, let his WWE deal expire last month. Many WWE talents did not know he was leaving, while only a handful of AEW talents reportedly knew he was coming in. He had last appeared on WWE as recently as RAW Legends Night last month, and he had reportedly been unhappy about the way he was used, though that may not have been the reason why he and WWE could not agree to a new deal. Someone close to Wight had anticipated something big happening over the past few months, as he had his Netflix show canceled and sold his house in addition to the WWE contract expiring. As his deal expired naturally, he was not subject to any no-compete clauses. (Source: Fightful Select)
We say: We totally forgot that he appeared on RAW last month. In any case, it seems as though the former Big Show's in-ring career isn't completely over, and that it'll end on his terms in AEW. We're willing to see who he gives the rub to.
Marty Scurll looking to rejoin NJPW
Marty Scurll had been present at recent NJPW Strong tapings as he is apparently looking to rejoin the company. He's been reported to have worked an angle on the show with Rocky Romero. Scurll was fired from his job as booker and talent in Ring of Honor last year due to sexual offense accusations, which will apparently not be an issue with NJPW. (Source: Fightful Select)
We say: It shouldn't be a surprise to anyone following New Japan that accusations like these don't matter to them, as controversial guys like Will Ospreay and Chase Owens are still performing for the company. In this case, as NJPW wants a foothold in the US, they should do as the Americans do and stay away from anyone controversial. Whether they'll actually do that is another story.
Photo from WWE
: What We Know About Big Show's WWE Departure, Marty Scurll Looking To Rejoin NJPW){kind=link}