WWE Rumor Roundup - Massive SummerSlam match to be removed, Details on failed attempt to buy a top company, Big news on Ric Flair's status after release (16th August 2021)

#4 Details of WWE's attempts to buy CMLL revealed

Dave Meltzer revealed in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that WWE tried to purchase the pro-wrestling promotion CMLL several years ago.

There were reportedly talks between both parties when WWE chalked up an ambitious plan to expand NXT. The company kickstarted NXT UK intending to set up brands in all the big wrestling markets worldwide, including Mexico.

Meltzer explained that WWE felt it could have used CMLL to groom talent before getting them ready for the US audience. The deal allegedly fell apart as CMLL wanted to sell arenas too as part of the deal, and WWE did not agree to the clause.

Here's Meltzer's report:

"There were talks a few years back of WWE buying CMLL. WWE wanted to run Mexico with the idea it could get the cream of the cream talent in Mexico and then groom some of them for the U.S. market. The belief was that if they owned CMLL and got all the top talent, that AAA wouldn't be able to keep its talent, and they'd have the best of both. Where the deal fell apart was for CMLL to sell, they wanted selling the arenas as part of the deal, and WWE didn't want to own so many older arenas."

CMLL losing their most interesting young luchadores (Sansón, Cuatrero & Forastero) and depending once more on Negro Casas and Ultimo Guerrero is quite the move. CMLL really doesn't care about the future. CMLL should try a working relationship with WWE with how similar they are.

— Juan C. Reneo (@ReneusMeister) August 10, 2021

Having been in existence since 1933, Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre Co., Ltd. (CMLL) continues to be one of the top two companies in Mexico alongside AAA.

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#3 Updates on Ric Flair's status after WWE release

As reported by WrestlingInc, Ric Flair appeared on Triplemania at no charge and chartered a private jet at his own expense to make the show.

Ric Flair asked for his WWE release and was granted the same this month, and it was revealed that the Nature Boy also has a no non-compete clause. The WWE Hall of Famer is free to appear in any promotion, including AEW, and the entire fanbase will be keeping a close eye on his next move.

Ric Flair appears at TripleMania in the corner of Andrade El Idolo pic.twitter.com/Jab0GePYHJ

— John Pollock (@iamjohnpollock) August 15, 2021

As noted, Ric Flair has taken up the role of Andrade's manager, and rumors also suggest that the WWE Legend could be working towards an in-ring return.