Toni Storm makes surprise Stardom appearance, Nick Khan attends Bloodsport

This story has been updated.

WrestleMania week got going on Thursday in Philadelphia with events at WWE World, and shows by Stardom and GCW among others.

Here’s some of the notable happenings that took place today in Philadelphia:

AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm appeared at Stardom American Dream at the 2300 Arena that also featured our own “Filthy” Tom Lawlor making his debut on commentary for the promotion alongside Veda Scott. 

Storm said she wouldn’t be where she is today without Stardom and is forever grateful to the company. She presented Mariah May with flowers and said she was proud of her before turning her attention to Mina Shirakawa. Storm got face-to-face with Shirakawa and told her that “the Forbidden Door is always open.” 

Shirakawa is also booked for tomorrow’s ROH Supercard of Honor show. She’ll team with Maika and Mei Seira against Tam Nakano, Saya Kamitani and AZM. 

WWE’s Natalya was also on hand for today’s Stardom show, posting several photos from backstage at the arena. 

Stardom founder Rossy Ogawa, who is expected to launch a new promotion shortly, was also in Philadelphia today at WWE World. Giulia, who is expected to be part of Ogawa’s new company, was also spotted at the event.

Bloodsport:

NXT’s Charlie Dempsey was a surprise participant at Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport X today, defeating Matt Makowski via submission.

Several WWE wrestlers were also spotted attending Bloodsport including CM Punk, Liv Morgan, Sonya Deville, and Natalya. Shayna Baszler performed on the show and had her WWE tag partner Zoey Stark in her corner. 

After the show, pictures appeared of WWE CEO Nick Khan talking to Barnett and posing for a photo with GCW head Brett Lauderdale:

At WWE World, The Rock was also two hours late for a scheduled appearance: