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!
Updates on stars leaving WWE
People within WWE are under the assumption that NXT stars Johnny Gargano and Kyle O'Reilly are on their way out. The company had attempted to keep them around but they don't seem to have signed new contracts. Gargano signed a one-week contract extension to allow him to work NXT WarGames, and will seemingly be addressing the crowd on Tuesday's NXT. O'Reilly will be wrestling former partner Von Wagner in a steel cage match on this week's episode as well. (Source: WrestlingNews.co)
We say: Well, that's pretty much confirming what everyone's thinking. Outside of a swerve that suddenly sees Johnny actually re-sign with the company, it's looking like a whole new era of NXT.
Update on plans for Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar
Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns's Universal Championship rematch at Day 1 is set to be the second out of a series of matches, culminating at WrestleMania 38. Lesnar is also scheduled to be a part of the Royal Rumble match. (Source: Dave Meltzer)
We say: That makes sense, especially after Roman vs. The Rock has been effectively pushed back to WrestleMania 39.
Backstage news on Austin Theory's involvement with Vince McMahon
Austin Theory has been featured heavily on last week's episode of RAW in segments with Vince McMahon to give him the rub. Theory's WWE Championship match against Big E three weeks ago on RAW did a nice rating with younger viewers, which the company seeks to capitalize on. (Source: WON)
We say: Again, it makes total sense for them to lean into Austin Theory and the younger generation. Let's hope this translates to good creative opportunities for the guy, and not hanging him out to dry like they did with a young John Cena back in 2002.
Photo from WWE
: Updates on Johnny Gargano and Kyle O'Reilly's Status, Plans For Reigns/Lesnar, Why Austin Theory Is Getting The Rub){kind=link}