Morning Daily News Update: August 14, 2026 – CM Punk’s Trainer Responds To Steroid Allegations

Good morning, everyone!

It’s Friday; the weekend is nearly here! But first, it’s time for the Morning Daily News Update!

Let’s check out what’s new on the blog:

Kat posted the latest NXT 2.0 Rewind for the November 2, 2021 episode
Alex Podgorski has a new 5-Star BOOK Review for part 3 of Jun Akiyama’s books
Kat also reviewed last night’s episode of WWE Main Event
Scott Herrin reviewed last night’s episode of TNA Impact

CM Punk’s trainer addresses allegations Punk uses steroids in WWE

CM Punk’s trainer, Jay Ferruggia, has responded to online allegations that the Undisputed WWE Champion has been using steroids following his recent physical transformation. Ferruggia credited Punk’s appearance to his dedication to training, nutrition, recovery and fitness, describing him as one of the hardest-working clients he has trained in 30 years. Addressing the steroid speculation directly, Ferruggia claimed some of the images circulating online were AI-generated, while others benefited from gym lighting and Punk having a pump. He added that Punk has become significantly leaner and is training differently, arguing that his progress is the result of hard work rather than “shortcuts and cheating”.

Major Update On Kofi Kingston And Xavier Woods Joining AEW

Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods could reportedly be heading to AEW following their WWE departures earlier this year. According to Fightful Select, sources stopped short of confirming that the former New Day members have signed with the promotion, but the expectation is that Kofi and Woods, now using the Austin Creed name, will join AEW soon.

There is currently no confirmation regarding when they could debut, with speculation surrounding a potential appearance at All In at Wembley Stadium on August 30 not supported by any specific report. The pair became free agents at the beginning of August after their WWE non-compete periods expired, having departed the company on May 2 following their rejection of restructured contracts that included significant pay cuts.
Generational Name Reportedly Added To WWE’s Internal Roster

Aalyah Gutierrez, the daughter of WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio and sister of Dominik Mysterio, has reportedly been added to WWE’s internal roster after reporting to the Performance Center for training. According to PWInsider, she is currently listed under her real name rather than the Mysterio surname. Aalyah previously appeared on WWE television, most notably during a 2020 storyline involving Buddy Murphy, but has increasingly focused on in-ring training over the past year. After completing several sessions at the Performance Center, Rey previously said his daughter had committed to pursuing wrestling with WWE on a full-time basis.

WWE SmackDown Lineup Confirmed For August 14, 2026

Check out the lineup for tonight’s episode of WWE SmackDown