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WWE's preparations for Royal Rumble 2022 are moving along quickly as the company has already made some big announcements for the event. However, WWE has received an enormous injury setback as another top star will miss Royal Rumble, and we kick off the latest news roundup with the trending story.
A former WWE star's social media activity has attracted attention after the legend conspicuously deleted a tweet after apologizing to Becky Lynch.
Brock Lesnar's name also featured in the roundup as the new WWE Champion broke a long-standing Hulk Hogan record following his latest title victory. We also have some excellent news for all the Hulkster fans as a close friend of the legend revealed a positive health update.
Nikki Bella is set to make her in-ring return at the Royal Rumble, and her doctor reacted to the news with a heartwarming Instagram post.
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On that note, let's delve into the details of each story in Sportskeeda Wrestling's WWE News Roundup:
#5. Ric Flair deletes tweet after demanding an apology from WWE and Becky Lynch
There is no end in sight to Ric Flair's feud with Becky Lynch as The Nature Boy issued another explosive tweet before immediately taking it down.
In the now-deleted post, the legendary star demanded an apology from Becky Lynch and WWE and an additional $20 million for using 'The Man' moniker.
You can check out a screenshot of the tweet below:
This isn't the first instance of Ric Flair retracting tweets directed at Becky Lynch as he continues to wage war against WWE regarding the rights over 'The Man.'
Recent reports suggest that WWE still owns the trademark but has chosen not to utilize it as Becky Lynch is now referred to as 'Big Time Becks' on TV. However, WWE's online store still features 'The Man' merchandise, and it's a clear indication of the company's stance on the matter.
Ric Flair left the WWE in August 2021 and has since been quite vocal about his frustrations with Vince McMahon's promotion. Meanwhile, his daughter Charlotte Flair has also not been on the best of terms with Becky Lynch, making the entire situation even more volatile.
#4. Sasha Banks to miss WWE Royal Rumble 2022
As confirmed by WWE, Sasha Banks will miss around 6-8 weeks of TV time due to a foot injury.
Sasha Banks suffered the injury at a recent WWE Live Event where she took on Charlotte Flair in a singles match. After the bout, the former women's champion had to be carried away to the backstage area. Fans at the venue noted that the referee put up the 'X' sign, which indicated that her injury might have been severe.
Thankfully for Sasha Banks, she didn't sustain any fractures and is expected to return within two months. Here's WWE's statement on Sasha Banks' injury:
"Sasha Banks suffered a foot injury at a WWE Live Event in Fayetteville, NC, Sunday night. Although nothing is broken, an MRI has revealed a bruised calcaneus bone, and she will be out of action for 6-8 weeks."
Sasha Banks also reacted to WWE's tweet by sending a warning to the women's roster ahead of the Royal Rumble show:
"Enjoy it ladies cause when I come back, I'm coming back... for everything. 30 women just got real lucky!" tweeted Sasha Banks.
Sportskeeda Wrestling sends its best wishes to Sasha Banks and prays for her speedy recovery and return.
#3. Nikki Bella's doctor reacts to her WWE in-ring return
Nikki and Brie Bella were amongst the participants confirmed for the 30-women Royal Rumble match, and the surprise announcement has been well-received by wrestling fans.
Nikki Bella was forced to retire from an active in-ring competition after a cyst was found in her brain in 2019.
The former Divas Champion has always spoken about her desire to wrestle again, and she has worked hard to overcome her medical issues. Nikki Bella's doctor, Juan Santiago Uribe, has been by her side throughout the journey, and he reacted to the star's Rumble return with a thoughtful Instagram post:
"Everyone will see you fighting on TV, but I've seen you fighting (and winning!) to get back in that ring. Thanks for your loyalty and support @thenikkibella," wrote Juan Uribe.
Nikki Bella last wrestled a singles match at Evolution 2018, where she lost to Ronda Rousey in a RAW Women's Championship match. Bella also posted a tweet after the Royal Rumble announcement and dedicated her impending comeback to son Teo:
"Before I jump into bed…January 29th 2022 will be for Teo. BabyRed heart Look out for the little one ringside matching his mommy in a Fearless Nikki jersey. Loudly crying faceSparkles Dreams do come true. Miracles can happen."
Are you excited to see Nikki and Brie back in the ring?
#2. Brock Lesnar breaks Hulk Hogan's WWE Championship record
Brock Lesnar is all about breaking records as he shattered another iconic one held by Hulk Hogan with his recent WWE title win.
As noted by Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Lesnar now has the record for the longest time in years between his first and latest WWE Championship victory.
The Beast Incarnate captured his first WWE Championship in 2002, and his sixth reign has come precisely 20 years later in 2022. The veteran superstar surpasses Hulk Hogan with his win as the Hulkster had an 18-year gap between his inaugural and final WWE Championship reigns:
"Lesnar's previously unplanned championship reign makes it a 20 year span from when he first held the WWF/WWE title (2002 to 2022). That is a record, breaking the mark of 18 for Hulk Hogan (1984-2002) and 17 for Bob Backlund (1977 to 1994) for the title," revealed Dave Meltzer.
Brock Lesnar is scheduled to defend his world title against Bobby Lashley at Royal Rumble, and there's considerable hype for the long-awaited dream match. Are you hyped as well?
#1. WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Hart reveals positive update on Hulk Hogan's health
Jimmy Hart was a guest on Stories with Brisco and Bradshaw, where he revealed a much-needed update regarding Hulk Hogan's health.
The WWE Hall of Famer stated that Hulk Hogan is doing much better and is undergoing weekly therapy sessions. Jimmy Hart reminded listeners that Hogan has had many surgeries and is slowly improving as he works towards a full physical recovery:
"Well, he's doing a lot better. Still, after 12 back surgeries, hips, and knees, he's doing so much better. He's been taking this therapy every week, and it's been really improving him more and more so he can get up and get about pretty good now. He still looks good. He always has the hair and has the tan," revealed Jimmy Hart.
Jimmy Hart added that Hulk Hogan still looks in fine shape and is fit enough to do interviews and appearances:
"His upper body is unbelievable," Jimmy Hart continued, "He always looks the part. He can still do an interview at the drop of a hat. He knows what to say and when to say it. He is such a magnet. People love him no matter where we go. It's crazy." H/t WrestlingNews.co
Hulk Hogan is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable superstars who regularly continues to be in the news. While he has had his ups and downs, Hogan is still incredibly popular, and his long-time fans will be relieved by the latest health update.
