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!
WWE seeking TV-14 rating for NXT
USA Network is apparently considering bumping up the rating for NXT 2.0 to TV-14. This would involve harsher language and more risque wardrobes in an attempt to draw in younger viewers. The ratings have not improved yet since taking on this new direction, but it seems like the plan is to keep going and make it more mature, and the network is not opposed to the idea. (Source: @WrestleVotes)
We say: It seems like stars are what's needed for NXT to float in the ratings, because at the end of the day, this is still a developmental brand. We're not saying that things have to go back to the way they were, but there will need to be big names for people to tune in—that's how Dynamite beat the show in the first place. The challenge will be finding big stars who are willing to work in developmental, or to find someone who can break through for the brand (but such a person would be called up immediately). It's a bit of a losing proposition, especially if USA wants the ratings, as they may have to settle for the numbers the show is currently doing.
Backstage news on AEW Tag Team Championship match at Full Gear
The weird finish for the AEW Tag Team Championship match at Full Gear last Saturday was apparently due to Dax Harwood nearly being knocked out in the middle of the match. His partner Cash Wheeler had to work most of it after that. (Source: Fightful Select)
We say: That's pretty unfortunate, and things like that do happen all the time. That said, it wasn't obvious that Dax almost got knocked out, and that speaks to the professionalism and skill of all four men involved.
Photo from WWE
: NXT 2.0 Looking To Get TV-14 Rating, Backstage News On Full Gear Match){kind=link}