On Friday, 23 veterans and prospects were released from their existing contracts in the latest round of WWE’s annual roster cuts. Some of the most notable names to be released this week were each member of the Wyatt Six, Kairi Sane, and wrestling power couple Aleister Black and Zelina Vega.

While this was bad news for those wrestlers, it does leave a group of interesting talents in pro wrestling free agency at a time when the industry is strong. All Elite Wrestling should seriously consider signing veteran performers soon. With that in mind, here are seven former WWE stars that AEW should target on the open market.

carry sen

AEW’s women’s division has come a long way over the years. However, that still pales in comparison to the absurd amount of talent on WWE’s roster. But WWE has just offered several talented female wrestlers that Tony Khan may want to quickly embrace. The most notable is Japanese veteran Kairi Sane.

Khan has mentioned being a fan of Sane in the past and has a clear love for the talent from the Land of the Rising Sun. While Sane may no longer be in her prime, she is still a good performer who one will have a lot of sympathy for as she was not given the chance to finish her long-running storyline with Asuka in WWE.

motor city machine gun

AEW probably has the best bell-to-bell wrestling in the world. Another thing they do well is highlight tag wrestling. This has been a weakness for WWE during the Paul “Triple H” Levesque era, and it’s why TNA legends the Motor City Machine Guns have had a disappointing run in the company.

When he hit free agency a few years ago, there were rumors that he might sign with AEW. A move back to TNA seems very unlikely, and there are far more interesting matchups for Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley in AEW as a team or singles.

alba fire

AEW has made huge inroads among European wrestling fans. That’s why they can go to Wembley Stadium every year and perform very well. Therefore, former Women’s Tag Champion Alba Fires should be a top target in free agency.

She is a strong wrestler and gives them another talent that attracts and keeps fans in the UK. Additionally, her former WWE tag partner, Isla Dawn, is already under the AEW umbrella.

Santos Escobar

AEW has strongly embraced its working relationship with Mexico’s CMLL as well as the Spanish-speaking audience. That’s why it would be wise to capture Santos Escobar. However, unlike most of the CMLL talent performing in AEW, Escobar is fluent in English and can connect with fans in both languages.

Furthermore, he is at his best right now and despite being a strong wrestler in the ring, he is underrated on the mic.

zoey stark

Zoey Stark was snake bitten by injuries during her tenure in WWE, including rupturing her knee ligaments twice. However, when healthy, she was one of the most athletic and skilled female wrestlers on the roster.

His latest knee injury has likely taken away his athletic gifts. However, at just 32 years old, she feels like a perfect fit for AEW and a great addition to the women’s division.

nikki cross

Nikki Cross is a talented performer who was treated poorly as a member of the Wyatt Six. Since WWE had trouble booking the unique group, he did not have a single match while a part of the faction. His wild character work is always entertaining, and he’s a rock-solid worker in the ring.

Additionally, like Alba Fires, she will be an addition that will not only strengthen the AEW women’s division but also strengthen the company’s relationship with UK Wrestling.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

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Hockey Skates Sharpening Guide: How to Use Green Machine in India

Ice hockey is rapidly gaining popularity in India, from the high-altitude rinks of Ladakh to the indoor arenas in Gurgaon and Mumbai. However, maintaining equipment can be a challenge. One of the most critical maintenance tasks for any player is hockey skates sharpening. In India, the “Green Machine” (a portable sharpening jig) is a popular choice for teams and individual players. This guide will walk you through how to use it effectively.

Why Skate Sharpening Matters

When you play hockey, your blades lose their “bite” over time due to friction with the ice and occasional contact with debris. In India, where ice quality can vary, keeping a sharp edge is vital for maneuverability, stopping power, and speed. A dull blade can lead to slips and injuries, especially on harder, outdoor ice surfaces.

What is the “Green Machine”?

The Green Machine is a manual, portable skate sharpening tool often used in regional Indian tournaments. Unlike the heavy industrial grinders found in NHL locker rooms, the Green Machine is affordable and mobile, making it perfect for the Indian hockey circuit. It typically uses a specialized stone or diamond abrasive to hone the skate’s hollow.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Green Machine

1. Secure the Skate

Place your hockey skate into the holder or jig. Ensure the blade is facing upwards and is perfectly level. Tighten the clamps so there is zero movement. In the dusty environments often found in India, make sure to wipe the blade clean with a microfiber cloth first.

2. Adjust the Grinding Stone

The “Green Machine” allows you to set the depth of the hollow. Most players prefer a 1/2 inch or 5/8 inch radius. Adjust the stone so it aligns perfectly with the center of the blade. Misalignment will result in uneven edges, which can ruin your skating balance.

3. The Sharpening Process

Apply a small amount of honing oil (if required by your specific model). Start at the “heel” of the blade and pull the machine smoothly toward the “toe.” Use consistent pressure. In India’s humid conditions, ensure the stone is dry and free of rust before starting.

4. Checking the Edges

After 3-4 passes, check the edge. A common Indian “jugaad” or trick is the “fingernail test”—lightly scrape your nail across the edge; if it shaves a thin layer of nail, it’s sharp. However, using an edge-checker tool is more accurate.

5. Deburring

Once sharpened, use a flat whetstone to remove the “burrs” (tiny metal shavings) from the sides of the blade. This ensures a smooth glide on the ice.

Maintenance Tips for Indian Players

• Dry Your Blades: Because of high humidity in many parts of India, always wipe your blades dry immediately after use to prevent rusting.
• Use Soakers: Never leave your sharpened skates in hard guards; use cloth “soakers” to wick away moisture.
• Frequency: Sharpen your skates every 10-15 hours of ice time, or more frequently if playing on gritty natural ice in Ladakh.

Conclusion

Properly sharpened skates are the foundation of a good game. While professional sharpening shops are still limited in India, mastering the Green Machine allows players and coaches to maintain their gear independently. By following this guide, you can ensure your blades are always game-ready, giving you the edge you need on the ice. Keep skating, keep scoring!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Where can I buy a Green Machine for hockey in India?

You can often find them through specialized sports importers in Delhi or Punjab, or by ordering through international hockey equipment websites that ship to India.

2. How often should I sharpen my skates?

For most Indian players practicing twice a week, sharpening once a month is usually sufficient. However, if you feel your skates “sliding” when you try to turn, it’s time for a sharpen.

3. Can I use the Green Machine on figure skates?

It is generally not recommended. The Green Machine is designed for the specific radius and blade width of hockey skates. Figure skates have different toe picks and blade curves.

4. Is it difficult to learn how to use the Green Machine?

It takes practice. It is recommended to practice on an old, discarded pair of skates before sharpening your main game skates to avoid grinding down the steel incorrectly.