WWE had some of their sets of meetings to discuss the upcoming Royal Rumble match.
Fightful Select has learned that while several veterans have contacted WWE about making Royal Rumble appearances, WWE was said to have been leaning out of that in some cases in favor of what they call "non traditional surprises." Unsure of what that meant, creative and producers were soliciting pitches for such a thing. Last year, WWE were adamant in leaning out of NXT names appearing in the Royal Rumble match. We've heard that isn't necessarily the case
In addition, we're told that as of last week, Ronda Rousey actually wasn't planned for the Royal Rumble PPV, at the time she lost the title, which can clearly change. Until December, Rousey was scheduled for the show in a singles match. That has been canceled.
In addition we were told that WWE was very confident in their women's roster as is with the hires and call-ups over the last year, and how it would play into the Royal Rumble match. Last year, WWE had to call in numerous veterans because mass releases led them with a depleted roster. Jason Cade has also been brought in to help with the Royal Rumble, and TJ Wilson will be on hand. Last year, Wilson (Tyson Kidd) wasn't around and WWE had to bring in Fit Finlay to help.
WWE is getting some help with a younger independent wrestler with a wealth of experience.
Fightful has learned that Jason Cade is expected to do some work with the company as a producer. Specifically, Fightful was told that Cade is helping with the upcoming women's Royal Rumble match, and that Tyson Kidd/TJ Wilson was instrumental in helping him come in. Cade has trained alongside Wilson and Natalya in the past. We have not been told if this will be full-time, trial, or a test run.
Cade hasn't worked as an active performer for quite a while. However, the 31-year old has experience a bit of everywhere, having worked matches on WWE Raw, NXT, 205 Live, AEW, ROH, IMPACT Wrestling, GCW, MLW, EVOLVE and numerous indies.
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