Jim Cornette’s advice to WWE regarding the current AEW champion has ignited discussions within the wrestling community about the future of both promotions
Whether WWE chooses to act on his advice remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the landscape of professional wrestling is constantly evolving, and alliances between promotions are more fluid than ever before.
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Jim Cornette Urges WWE to Sign AEW Star Willow Nightingale
Wrestling veteran Jim Cornette recently made headlines by urging WWE to sign All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star Willow Nightingale.1
Nightingale, a 30-year-old powerhouse, joined AEW in May 2021 and currently holds the prestigious AEW TBS Championship. She is set to defend her title against Mercedes Mone at the upcoming Double or Nothing pay-per-view event on May 26.
Cornette’s Critique of AEW Segment
The call for Nightingale’s signing came after a controversial segment on AEW’s Dynamite, where she power bombed Mercedes Mone through a table during a contract signing.
Cornette, on his Drive Thru podcast, expressed his dissatisfaction with the segment, particularly with the decision to put Mone, a former Sasha Banks, through the table.
Brian Last Echoes Cornette’s Sentiments
Cornette’s co-host, Brian Last, echoed his sentiments, suggesting that it would be ideal for WWE to sign Nightingale and her AEW colleague Kris Statlander.
However, Last acknowledged the potential challenges in making this happen in the near future.
Cornette’s Direct Message to WWE
In a clear message to WWE, Cornette emphasized the importance of signing Nightingale, repeating, “Get Willow, get Willow, get Willow!” This direct plea from a wrestling veteran like Cornette underscores the impact Nightingale has made in AEW and the potential she holds for WWE.
As the wrestling world awaits Nightingale’s title defense at Double or Nothing, all eyes will be on her performance and the outcome of the match.
Whether WWE will heed Cornette’s advice and pursue Nightingale remains to be seen, but her star power and in-ring talent are undeniable, making her a valuable asset for any promotion.
CM Punk Reigns as the Unburied Star of AEW, According to Jim Cornette
Jim Cornette, in a recent episode of the Drive Thru podcast, expressed discontent with Tony Khan’s booking of top stars within AEW.
The 62-year-old criticized the handling of wrestlers such as Kazuchika Okada, Mercedes Mone, Orange Cassidy, and Edge, suggesting they were buried by the promotion.
However, Cornette singled out CM Punk as the only star who was booked properly during his tenure with the Jacksonville-based promotion.
CM Punk: A Shining Star Amidst Booking Criticisms
CM Punk’s tenure in AEW has been a standout, with Cornette praising the promotion’s handling of the former WWE star.
Punk, known as “The Best in the World,” made a highly anticipated return to WWE last year at Survivor Series, marking a significant moment for wrestling fans worldwide.
It’s where “The Elite” learned all their spots: https://t.co/bo6C9MYVec
— Jim Cornette (@TheJimCornette) May 22, 2024
AEW’s Treatment of Other Stars
In contrast to Punk’s positive reception, other stars have faced criticism for their booking. Kazuchika Okada, a renowned name in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, joined AEW to much fanfare but has seemingly not been utilized to his full potential.
Mercedes Mone, who is set to make her in-ring debut for AEW, faces high expectations, with many hoping she will be given the opportunity to shine.
Looking Ahead: Mercedes Mone’s Debut
Mercedes Mone’s upcoming in-ring debut for AEW has generated considerable buzz. Fans are eager to see how she will be booked and whether she will be given the platform to showcase her talent.
With AEW continuing to make waves in the world of professional wrestling, the promotion’s handling of its stars remains a topic of interest and debate among fans and critics alike.
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Jim Cornette: Bio
Early Life
Jim Cornette, a prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling, was born on September 17, 1961, in Louisville, Kentucky.2
His father, Doug Cornette, worked as an executive for The Louisville Courier-Journal and The Louisville Times, while his mother, Thelma Cornette, served as a secretary for the Louisville Chamber of Commerce.
Tragically, Jim’s father passed away when he was just seven years old, leaving a profound impact on his life.
Early Passion for Wrestling
From a young age, Jim Cornette developed a deep passion for wrestling. He recalled installing a ten-foot antenna on top of his house as a child, allowing him to watch regional wrestling matches to his heart’s content.
This early exposure sparked a lifelong love affair with the sport and set the stage for his future career in the wrestling industry.
Jim Cornette: Career
A Legendary Journey in Professional Wrestling
Jim Cornette, a name synonymous with the rich tapestry of professional wrestling history, embarked on his illustrious career at a remarkably young age.3
From his early days as a multifaceted contributor to the wrestling world to his pivotal roles in shaping some of the most iconic wrestling storylines, Cornette’s journey is a testament to his passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the sport.
Early Beginnings and Influences (1976-1982)
Cornette’s foray into the world of professional wrestling commenced at the tender age of 14, where he immersed himself in various roles, including photographer, ring announcer, timekeeper, magazine correspondent, and public relations correspondent.
His exposure to the wrestling scene at the Louisville Gardens proved instrumental in shaping his future, as he crossed paths with promoter Christine Jarrett, a pivotal figure in his early career. Christine’s son, Jerry Jarrett, the promoter of the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA), would later play a significant role in Cornette’s professional journey.
Cornette’s photographic work from the Memphis territory garnered recognition and was regularly featured in Gong, a prestigious Japanese pro wrestling magazine, from 1977 to 1982.
Venturing into Management: Continental Wrestling Association (1982–1983)
- By 1982, Cornette had already established himself as a prolific writer, with his works published in wrestling magazines and programs for arena shows.
- His big break came when he attended a TV match between Jerry Lawler and Ric Flair in Memphis. Impressed by Cornette’s talent and passion for wrestling, promoter Jerry Jarrett offered him a managerial role on television.
- Cornette embraced this opportunity by adopting the ring name James E. Cornette as a tribute to the legendary wrestling promoter James E. Barnett.
- He made his managerial debut on September 25, 1982, managing Sherri Martel, marking the beginning of a remarkable chapter in his career.
- Cornette’s managerial persona, portrayed as a rich kid turned inept manager, resonated with fans and set the stage for memorable storylines with wrestlers like Dutch Mantell, “Exotic” Adrian Street, and the “Cornette Dynasty.”
Rise to Prominence: Mid-South Wrestling (1983–1984)
Cornette’s ascent to prominence reached new heights when he joined Mid-South Wrestling in 1983. Promoter Bill Watts, recognizing the need for fresh talent, enlisted Cornette to manage a new tag team, which would later be known as The Midnight Express.
Cornette’s confrontational managerial style, coupled with the team’s in-ring prowess, captivated audiences and propelled The Midnight Express to stardom.
The formation of this iconic tag team, along with the introduction of other notable talents like the Rock ‘n’ Roll Express, revitalized Mid-South Wrestling and elevated Cornette’s status as a mastermind behind the scenes.
Feuds and Rivalries: A Test of Character
- One of the most memorable feuds of Cornette’s career was with Magnum T. A. and Mr. Wrestling II. This feud culminated in a dramatic contract signing that saw Cornette and The Midnight Express tar and feather Magnum T. A., setting the stage for a series of intense matches and compelling storytelling.
- Another pivotal moment was the infamous altercation between Cornette and Bill Watts, which stemmed from a cake-smashing incident on TV.
- This altercation led to a series of matches known as “The Last Stampede,” where Cornette and The Midnight Express faced off against Watts and his masked partner, Stagger Lee, in a high-stakes battle for control of Mid-South Wrestling.
- Jim Cornette’s contributions to professional wrestling extend far beyond the confines of the ring. His innovative storytelling, keen eye for talent, and unwavering dedication to the sport have left an indelible mark on the industry.
- Whether as a manager, promoter, or commentator, Cornette’s passion for wrestling shines through, earning him a place among the legends of the sport.
- Jim Cornette’s professional wrestling career is a testament to his unparalleled passion, creativity, and dedication to the sport.
- From his early beginnings as a jack-of-all-trades to his iconic role as the mastermind behind The Midnight Express, Cornette’s journey has been nothing short of legendary. His legacy continues to inspire generations of wrestling enthusiasts, cementing his status as a true icon of the sport.
Jim Cornette: Personal Life
A Closer Look at the Controversial Figure
Jim Cornette, a prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling, has led a life filled with both success and controversy.
Beyond his wrestling career, Cornette’s personal life has been the subject of much interest and scrutiny. Let’s delve into the various aspects of Jim Cornette’s personal life, from his relationships to his political views and beyond.
Marriage to Stacey Goff
Cornette married his longtime girlfriend Stacey Goff on October 31, 2007. Goff was no stranger to the wrestling world, having previously worked as a manager in Cornette’s Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) promotion under the ring name “Synn.”
As Synn, she managed future WWE Champion Batista during his time in OVW, adding another layer of intrigue to Cornette’s personal life.
Public Criticism of Republican Politicians
Cornette has been a vocal critic of several Republican politicians, including Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert.
In one instance, Cornette mistakenly claimed that Stan Lane, his former Midnight Express teammate, was Boebert’s father. This error led to several comedic segments on Cornette’s podcasts.
Shift Towards Democratic Socialism
In December 17, 2017, Cornette declared himself a democratic socialist, marking a shift in his political views. He has since voiced his support for various progressive causes, including the March for Our Lives rally in March 2018.
Cornette has been a strong advocate for gun control measures and has criticized the National Rifle Association of America (NRA).
Atheism and Criticism of Religion
Cornette is an atheist and has been highly critical of organized religion. He has often mocked televangelists, such as Benny Hinn and Pat Robertson, for their practices and beliefs.
Throughout his career, Cornette has been involved in several legal issues, including a criminal record that includes assaults. Many of these incidents stemmed from altercations with fans who attacked him during his time as a manager in the 1980s.
These legal troubles have made it challenging for Cornette to work in certain areas, including Canada, where he was turned away from the border in November 2010.
Recognition and Honors
Despite his controversies, Cornette has received recognition for his contributions to the wrestling world.
In November 17, 2014, then Knox County, Tennessee, mayor Tim Burchett declared “Jim Cornette Day” during a Southeastern Championship Wrestling taping in Knoxville, highlighting Cornette’s impact on the wrestling community.
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