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  • Daily pro wrestling history (01/15): Rey Mysterio wins WCW Cruiserweight Title

    1913

    Duluth, Minnesota:
    – American Heavyweight Title: Stanislaus Zbyszko beat Jess Westergaard by dq (Westergaard retained title)

    1953 

    Kansas City, Kansas:
    – Dave Sims defeated Bobby Lane to win the NWA Central States Heavyweight Title 

    1954

    Waterloo, Iowa:
    – US Heavyweight Title match: Verne Gagne beat Bob Orton 2 falls to 1 to retain the title 

    1959

    Minneapolis, Minnesota:
    – Herb and Seymour Freeman defeated Reggie and Stan Lisowski for the Minneapolis NWA World Tag Team Title 

    Kansas City, Kansas:
    – Bobby Bruns, Bob Ellis and Billy McDaniel beat Lee Henning, Bill Longson and Mighty Atlas in 2 out of 3 falls
    – Thor Hagen beat Bob Orton dq 
    – Joe Hamilton beat Rip Hawk
    – Mighty Atlas b. Bobby Bruns dq

    1962

    St. Paul, Minnesota:
    – Larry Hennig and Duke Hoffman defeated Ivan and Nikita Kalmikoff in a tournament final for the vacant AWA World Tag Team Title 

    1964 

    Salem, Oregon:
    – Luther Lindsay and Shag Thomas defeated The Destroyer and Art Michalik to win the NWA Pacific Northwest Tag Team Titles

    1967

    Toronto, Ontario, Canada:
    – Bulldog Brower beat Edouard Carpentier 
    – Fred Atkins and Tiger Jeet Singh beat Ivan Kalmikoff and “Whipper” Billy Watson
    – Sweet Daddy Siki beat Dutch Momberg 
    – Rocky Johnson beat Stamford Murphy 
    – Johnny Kostas beat Joe Christie 
    – Billy “Red”Lyons and Hans Schmidt went to a 20:00 draw

    1969

    Mobile, Alabama:
    – Don Carson and Dick Dunn defeated Flash and Rocket Monroe for the NWA Gulf Coast Tag Team Title 

    1971

    Tokuyama, Japan:
    – Bill Dromo defeated Kintaro Ohki to win the Japan Wrestling Association All Asia Heavyweight Title

    1972

    – Dory Dixon defeated Kinji Shibuya for the NWA Beat the Champ Television Title

    Minneapolis, Minnesota:
    – The Crusher beat Nick Bockwinkel 
    – Billy Robinson beat Red Bastien
    – Ivan Koloff & Big K beat Andre Rousimoff & Bull Bullinski on a 3rd fall dq
    – Larry Hennig beat Joe Scarpello
    – Dusty Rhodes beat Billy Howard 

    1974

    Long Beach, California:
    – John Tolos defeated Pak Song to win the NWA Americas Heavyweight Title 

    Dallas, Texas:
    – The Great Mephisto defeated Jose Lothario for the NWA Texas Heavyweight Title

    Mobile, Alabama:
    – Norvell Austin and Rocket Monroe defeated Gunga Din and Kubla Khan to win the Gulf Coast NWA United States Tag Team Titles

    1975

    San Francisco, California:
    – The Brute defeated Peter Maivia to win the San Francisco NWA United States Heavyweight Title 

    1976

    Kansas City, Kansas:
    – Ripper Collins (w/ Percival A. Friend) defeated Bob Geigel
    – Bob Brown & Ed Wiskoski defeated Ray Candy & Mike George
    – Fence Match: Jerry Oates & Ted Oates defeated Ron Bass & Dutch Mantell

    1977

    Portland, Oregon:
    – Buddy Rose and Jesse Ventura won the NWA Pacific Northwest Tag Team Title from Dutch Savage and Jimmy Snuka

    1978

    Mexico City, Mexico:
    – Canek defeated Dr. Wagner for the Mexican National Light Heavyweight Title 

    1979

    Memphis, Tennessee:
    – Ron Fuller defeated Austin Idol to win the AWA Southern Heavyweight Title 

    1980

    Tampa, Florida:
    – Lumberjack Match: Mike Graham defeated Bugsy McGraw 
    – Florida Title: Manny Fernandez defeated Leroy Brown by dq
    – $5,000 Challenge: Uvalde Slim defeated Super Destroyer 
    – Bryan St John & Stan Lane & Johnny Valiant defeated Jack Brisco & Jerry Brisco & Don Diamond 

    1981

    Oakland, California:
    – Andre The Giant beat Jerry Blackwell
    – Nick Bockwinkel beat Tito Santana
    – Non Title: Pat Patterson & Ray Stevens beat AWA Tag Team Champions Adrian Adonis & Jesse Ventura
    – John Studd drew Dino Bravo
    – Greg Gagne beat Bobby Heenan
    – Jerry Blackwell won battle royal

    1983

    Miami, Florida:
    – Mike Graham defeated Kevin Sullivan to win the NWA Florida Heavyweight Title

    San Juan, Puerto Rico:
    – King Tonga (Haku) defeated Invader I for the WWC Puerto Rico Heavyweight Title 

    Guadalajara, Mexico:
    – Ringo Mendoza defeated El Faraon to win the NWA World Light Heavyweight Title 

    1984

    Montgomery, Alabama:
    – Arn Anderson and Jerry Stubbs defeated Jimmy Golden and Jacques Rougeau in a tournament final for the vacant NWA Southeastern Tag Team Titles

    1985

    Anoka, Minnesota: 
    – The Terminators (Rigs and Wolf) were billed as the PWA Tag Team Champions 
    – Mad Dog Vachon defeated “Mr. Electricity” Steve Regal to become the first the first PWA Heavyweight Champion
    – Danny Gage defeated Mohammed Abass to become the first PWA Iron Horse Television Champion

    1986 

    Tampa, Florida:
    – Jesse Barr defeated Lex Luger to win the Florida NWA Southern Heavyweight Title 

    1989

    Houston, Texas:
    – Haku defeated Harley Race to win the unofficial title of “King Of Wrestling”
    – Big John Stud won the Royal Rumble

    1992

    Kobe, Japan:
    – Big Titan defeated Atsushi Onita to win the WWA World Martial Arts Title

    1995

    Dallas, Texas:
    – John Hawk defeated Kevin Von Erich to win the NWA North American Heavyweight Title 

    1996

    Memphis, Tennessee:
    – Miss Texas (Jackie Moore) defeated Lady Satan (Debbie Combs) for the USWA Women’s Title 

    1998

    Lakeland, Florida:
    – Rey Misterio, Jr. defeated WCW Cruiserweight Champion Juventud Guerrera to win the title
    – Chris Jericho defeated Eddie Guerrero
    – Lex Luger and Diamond Dallas Page defeated Kevin Nash and Randy Savage by disqualification

    2006

    Orlando, Florida:
    – Alex Shelley & Roderick Strong & Austin Aries defeated Matt Bentley (with Tracy Brooks) & Sonjay Dutt & Chris Sabin 
    – AJ Styles defeated Hiroshi Tanahashi 
    – NWA Tag Team champions, America’s Most Wanted (James Storm & Chris Harris) (with Gail Kim) defeated Team 3D to retian the titles
    – TNA X-Division champion Samoa Joe defeated Christopher Daniels to retain the title

  • AJ Styles’ final indies run continues with John Morrison match, preps for Rey Mysterio match

    Submitted by Darren Hubbard

    Show was advertised for a 7.30pm start, but started at 8.05pm.

    The show kicked off with an contract signing angle for the AJ Styles/Rey Mysterio match the next night in Sheffield.  AJ Styles came out and challenged Rey Mysterio to a match that very evening.  A skinny Mysterio impersonator came out and Styles beat him up.  The real Mysterio came out, cleaned house, both signed contracts, and Mysterio wanted the match tonight, which got what little crowd that there was excited.  However, Mysterio signed the contract for the next night, meaning that the match couldn’t take placetonight.  A stupid angle which made Mysterio look like a dick for signing the contract, and even worse, pissing off the crowd who thought that they were going to get a Styles/Mysterio match.

    Joe Coffey beat Will Osprey

    Solid match, nothing outstanding though. Coffey had his fans from ICW, Osprey clearly holding back.

    Grado beat Carlito by DQ with a low blow

    Five minute comedy match, Carlito beat him up afterwards calling Grado a joke.  Was going to spit an apple in his face, but Carlito said he wasn’t even worth that.  Crowd seemed annoyed at the length of the match, justifiably so.

    Jamie Hayter beat Zoe Lucas

    Nobody knew who these were (I got the names via the Wrestle Ropes site) – apparently they were trainees from the Revolution Pro group here in the UK.  A terrible match – they just weren’t ready, and it felt insulting that half the crowd paid £50 ($72) for this.

    Rey Misterio beat ROH Champion Jay Lethal via DQ after a belt shot.

    Crowd pissed at the finish again. Both put a mild bit of effort in, Rey is still really over with the kids.  Lethal’s great, even when he coasts.  Lethal pulled Rey’s mask off afterwards, and Rey had to go back with his shirt pulled over his face.

    Magnus & Big Damo beat Lou King Sharp

    Sharp is literally under five foot tall, and they did an angle where Sharp is oblivious of his actual size and acted like he was a giant.  He demanded somebody to wrestle, and out came Magnus (with GFW belt), who towers over him.  Sharp, still deluded, said that this wasn’t a fair fight and Magnus should have a partner, so out came Demo.  Demo killed Sharp, and Magnus gave him a middle-rope elbow drop for the finish.  Demo and Magnus did a staredown post-match.

    Jimmy Havoc beat Marty Scurll & Zack Sabre Jr.

    Very good stuff, but too short. Crowd, hardcores and kids alike, enjoyed this, some really cool technical stuff from Zack, as per.

    UEWA Cruiserweight Championship: Kid Fite def. Jason Prime

    Scarlett from UK TV show Gogglebox was Kid Fite’s sidekick for the night – apparently she’s a massive wrestling fan.  Kid Fite’s manager (didn’t catch name) distracted the ref and Fite got the win with a belt shot.  Bog standard stuff.

    P.J. Black beat Colt Cabana with a top rope Asai moonsault

    Good match with some comedy spots.  Again, too short though, but we were running late.

    5 Star Champion John Morrison beat AJ Styles

    By this time it was 11pm, and lots of people had to leave to get public transport home.  So, again, short match where an average amount of effort was put in, but I wouldn’t bother making an effort in front of 600 people on a rainy night in the UK either so fair play.  Rey interfered, and Morrison won with a Starship Pain, which ended up with Morrison in a senton position on Styles, rather landing on his front, moonsault style.  Not sure whether that was a botch, to be honest.  Carlito challenged Morrison for the championship after the match.

    All in all, and I hate to say it, pretty depressing.  There was a great range of talent on the show, but there were tons of awful finishes, the show started late, overran, and hardly any atmosphere with 800 people in an arena.  Pretty grim stuff.  I’ve been to worse shows on a local level, but folk paid £35-£50 for this.

  • Wrestling Weekly: the future of WWE roster cuts, Sting, Vintage Observer review

    On this week’s Wrestling Weekly, Les Thatcher and Vic Sosa look back at the days when you could count on a bunch of roster cuts from WWE shortly after Wrestlemania and wonder if it might be time for that to happen again.

    We’ll also talk Sting in the WWE HOF (29:01) and remember the night one of Les’ dear friends was honored by WCW in a very moving ceremony (34:36). As always, we’ll close the show with the mailbag (42:48). 

    Thanks for listening and have a great weekend~!

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  • Kevin Owens rekindles Sami Zayn rivalry at NXT Milwaukee house show

    Image courtesy of Count Counterpoint

    Submitted by Andrew Vrchota

    Packed house at the Turner Hall Ballroom. Crowd was hot for the entire show.

    NXT Tag Champions The Mechanics (Dash & Dawson) def. Enzo Amore and Colin Cassady

    Show opened with Dash and Dawson vs Enzo and Big Cass for the tag team championships. Enzo said that tonight they would get redemption for what happened in the UK. Lots of Enzo flying around spots. Dash and Dawson ended up getting the win on a roll up after the ref was getting Cassady out of the ring when he didn’t see him tag in.

    Carmella def. Alexa Bliss

    Carmella got on the mic and said for tonight only she was going to be the princess of Milwaukee. Good chain wrestling from these two. Carmella gets Bliss to tap out with a choke via her leg around Alexa’s neck.

    Elias Samson def. Bull Dempsey

    Bull comes out with a youth cheesehead on, which gets a great reaction. Then, the lights went out. A spot light shined on the bar to the left of the ring and Samson’s music hit to which he got up from the bar and went to the ring. Pretty neat concept for an entrance, just not sure how this character sets him apart from the rest. The match takes a while to get underway after Samson is not thrilled with Dempsey’s squats. Dempsey also removed the cheesehead, but the crowd urged him to wear it while he wrestled. Samson won with a swinging neck breaker (I believe). This was a total comedy match. After the match, Samson spit on the cheesehead and ripped it into pieces. Dempsey got ahold of Samson’s guitar, took the money from it, and threw the bills into the crowd.

    NXT Women’s Champion Bayley def. NIa Jax

    Jax was in control for much of the match. Bayley eventually made her comeback and actually hit the Bayley to belly finisher on Jax.

    INTERMISSION

    Sami Zayn def. Tommaso Ciampa

    Crowd was split 50/50 for this as Ciampa calls Milwaukee home. This was easily match of the night. Get, stuff match. Ciampa was chopping and slapping Zayn so hard that blood blisters were seen on Zayn’s chest and neck. Zayn hit his usual dive to the outside. Ciampa hit Zayn with a power bomb back breaker for a 2 count that had everyone fooled as the actual finish. Crowd really got into this match. Zayn won with the helluva kick.

    After the match, Zayn and Ciampa shook hands out of respect in the ring. Zayn got in the mic and talked about ECW running shows in Turner Hall 15 years ago and that what NXT is doing today is exactly what ECW was doing 15 years ago. Zayn mentioned that someone told him that Turner Hall was their favorite venue to work at, and after wrestling in it tonight, he agrees….Kevin Owens!

    Owens comes out and says that person was him that told him that and that Turner Hall was supposed to be the last venue he worked as an independent wrestler before he went to WWE but do to circumstances beyond his control, he never got to wrestle at Turner Hall. Owens said that Sami is probably getting a little upset at Owens, but said he knew Sami wasn’t going to do anything about it because Owens is too important. Owens said that while he’s been main eventing Raw, Smackdown, live events etc, Zayn has been sitting in his couch nursing his injuries. This lead to Zayn kicking Owens in the face. Owens retreats and Zayn says that he can have his Raw and Smackdown, because NXT belongs to Sami Zayn.

    Eva Marie def. Peyton Royce

    Yep, they followed up the match of the night and biggest surprise of the night with EVA MARIE. Nothing really to write home about. Royce has some great leg kicks. Eva wins with a spinning neck breaker.

    NXT Champion Finn Balor vs Apollo Crews vs Baron Corbin

    Corbin stayed out of the ring to start but while Finn and Crews were tied up, Corbin would trip one of the two. Finn and Crews teamed up to take out Corbin and his shenanigans. Finn and Crews had a great series of moves, counters, holds, etc. Corbin eventually got some offense on both Finn and Crews. Couple cool, fast paced spots involving all 3 competitors. At one point, Corbin had Crews in a head lock, which allowed Finn to drop kick Corbin and Corbin’s momentum caused Crews to be DDTed. Finish saw Crews hit the standing moonsault on Corbin, Finn broke up the pinball with a Cope de Grace and was able to pin Corbin. After the match, Crews and Finn posed for the crowd. They shook hands, hugged, and threw up the “2 Sweet” sign.

  • FREE B&V 1/14: Vinny’s Raw report, NXT, special guest host Danny, Granny, more!

    The Bryan & Vinny Show is back tonight with a FREE episode courtesy wrestlingobserver.com! Special guest host DANNY joins us with tons to talk about including NXT on Full Sail and Vinny’s Raw report, plus Granny’s Q&A, some great songs and tons more! A fun show as always so check it out~!

    Right click save

  • WWE Main Event results: Jack Swagger and Mark Henry team up to face The Ascension

    For the second week in succession, Main Event opens with an in-ring promo instead of a match. This week, it’s wig splitter-in-chief, Mark Henry, who has something to get off his chest. Mizark begins his address by informing us that this August will mark the 20th anniversary of the inking of his first WWE contract. He reels off some of the accolades that he’s earned in that timespan (namechecking the ECW, European and Heavyweight titles in that order), before assuring us that 2016 will finally be the year that he checks the Royal Rumble off his list.

    This revelation prompts The Ascension to interrupt. Konnor speculates that the World’s Strongest Man might have the World’s Shortest Memory because, as Viktor adds, it was The Ascension who eliminated Henry from the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal at Wrestlemania Play Sign. Fair point. That watershed moment in the history of our sport is indelibly etched in the minds of any who witnessed it.

    These history-makers refer to themselves as the World’s Sickest Tag Team and state that the “annihilation” that they will bring to bear at the Rumble starts tonight with Mark Henry. They enter the ring and begin beating on Henry, hitting him with a Fall of Man that only brings him to his knees.

    Cue Jack Swagger to make the save and clear the ring, setting up a rematch of the featured contest from Superstars a couple of weeks back, in which the good guys triumphed. I wonder if this one will have the same outcome? Hmmm…

    Stardust def. Fandango via pinfall

    We get a typically cryptic inset promo from Rhodes beforehand, from which I can just about decipher that he thinks he’s going to win the Rumble. Who did you eliminate from the ARMBAR, Cody?!

    Super short match here. What little offence Fandango managed was highlighted by a plancha and a spinning heel kick for two. The finish saw Stardust dodge a corner charge, causing Fandango to crotch himself on the second rope. This allowed the heel to drag his prey off the turnbuckle head-first and hit the Queen’s Crossbow for the victory.

    Alicia Fox def. Tamina via pinfall

    Oh dear. This was bad. Both girls’ entrances are notable; Alicia’s for the fact that we get to hear her own theme (rather than Brie’s or Nikki’s) for the first time in an age. Meanwhile, Tamina debuts the new Team B.A.D. theme and TitanTron video. It’s pretty meh.

    We get a botched spot straight off the bat as Alicia appears to trip off an Irish whip from Tamina. Loud spot calling from Alicia then prompts a headbutt from Tamina, who moves on to some of the most boring heel diva offence imaginable; stand on hair, chinlock, clap hands for some reason, repeat.

    Comeback time, and Tamina is woefully out of place to dodge Alicia’s big boot attempt. The finish sees Tamina miss a corner charge (Road Dogg!!!) and get rolled up with the dreaded school boy for the win.

    After the match, Tamina gets her “heat” back by beating Alicia up. Completely pointless.

    – Recap of the McMahons entertaining themselves in the opening segment of RAW and the stultifyingly dull Reigns vs. Owens/One vs. All main event.

    Jack Swagger and Mark Henry def. The Ascension via pinfall

    Jerry Lawler, Rich Brennan’s announcing buddy for the second successive week, reminds us that he was Henry’s first opponent in the WWE way back when. Brennan asks him how that went for The King. Lawler: “Check out The Ascension!” Hey, I smiled.

    Pretty even contest before the inevitable commercial break, which is preceded by Swagger getting tripped by Konnor on the apron as he went to fetch Viktor.

    To the surprise of no-one, we return with the heels still in command. This heat portion of the match is highlighted by Viktor mocking the “We The People” chant and following up by getting some insane height on a fist drop to Swagger.

    Eventually Swagger cuts Viktor off with a belly to belly slam and gets the hot tag to his partner. Henry doles out big powerslams to both opponents, before joining Swagger in a celebratory “We The People” rendition. Swagger Bomb to Viktor follows, after which legal man Konnor sneaks up behind Henry to steal the win. Henry has him scouted on the Tron, however; he turns around, picks Konnor up, and puts him right back down again with the World’s Strongest Slam for the win.

    Final Thoughts

    Arguably the weakest edition of Main Event since I started covering the show in November. While replacing the opening match with a promo to set up the featured contest may seem like a good idea in theory, the usual poor scriptwriting has actually rendered the show weaker on aggregate since the experiment began last week. Two short matches (one of which was actively bad) and a rehash of a Superstars main event from a few weeks ago is not an attractive prospect for any potential viewer. Recommendation to skip.

  • WON Preview: Shinsuke Nakamura, WWE and New Japan Pro Wrestling

    An update on Shinsuke Nakamura, WWE and New Japan Pro Wrestling is the lead story of the new issue of the Wrestling Observer.  We look at his departure, his not losing the IC title in the ring, the decision making surrounding it, Nakamura’s final matches in Japan and his start in the U.S., New Japan’s next two PPV shows, and the future of the IC title.

    We also look at Nick Diaz’s updated suspension, Diaz vs. Robbie Lawler, and the welterweight division title situation.  We also look at UFC 197 through 200 with talk about what is next for Ronda Rousey, Jon Jones vs. Daniel Cormier, MMA in New York, what huge publicity coup UFC had that fell apart, is UFC too confident about high ticket prices, and a number of future main events.

    We have a lot of WrestleMania updates, including what is on the books and other key matches.  We’ve got more on John Cena’s surgery, updates on a number of WWE injuries, a look at the first Smackdown on USA, more on brain injuries to fighters and wrestlers, Notes on the next NXT tapings, new WWE camps, double standards, Linda McMahon update, NXT weekend, and football background of two NXT stars.

    We also have rundowns of all the WWE & NXT house shows over the weekend and business notes/

    We also update the Royal Rumble show.

    We’ve got a feature on Sting and his career, from growing up, through Memphis, though WCW and TNA and his final run in WWE.  We look at how he got started, his first break, the Ric Flair match that made him a star, when he was originally to win the NWA title and why it was delayed, what happened when he was champion, the Hogan vs. Sting match that was a disaster, how he ended up in TNA, and more.

    We also look at plans for C.M. Punk’s debut, as well as full coverage of TNA’s tapings and PPV, including contract issues, the Matt Hardy situation and what is the short-term future for television.

    We also look at Yoel Romero and his potential test failure and how this changes the middleweight division.  We look at Romero’s background, as well as reaction from fighters to his test.

    We also update the future of the AAA Mega championship and the current plans for Guerra de Titanes, the first major show of 2016 in AAA.

    The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: January 18, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: NJPW strips Nakamura, Sting to HOF

    You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer

    You can also order print issues at www.paypal.com directing funds to dave@wrestlingobserver.com

    Rates are:

    For the United States, it is $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52.  In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to moonsault@mediaplusint.com  For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52.

    If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.

    If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can get one free classic issue of your choice sent to you today.  With a 40 issue subscription, you can get two free classic issues sent to you today. 

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

    The Wrestling Observer ranges weekly from 35,000 to 50,000 words covering pro wrestling and MMA internationally. Each issue has coverage and analysis of all the major news, plus every issue breaks major news stories before the Internet sties and has the most complete look at the pro wrestling and MMA business anywhere, plus history pieces available nowhere else.

    We’ve also got the weekly coverage of all the ratings of the major shows, results from the major league events held around the world, and the major TV show rundowns.

    Also in this issue:

    –A bomb threat before one of last week’s major shows

    –Two major stars meet for the first time in a singles match this week

    –Return of Canek to Arena Mexico

    –CMLL reaction to La Sombra in WWE

    –Update on AAA TV in the U.S.

    –AAA business notes

    –The link of two of the biggest wrestling families of all-time

    –Chris Masters talks his time in AAA

    –Keiji Muto wrestles and teams with Akebono

    –Suwama vacates Triple Crown due to injury and what is next

    –Changes in All Japan management

    –All Japan and Big Japan announce working agreement

    –NOAH opens 2016 and build to the first big show

    –Update on New Japan contracts

    –Tanahashi vs. Okada update

    –Controversy around the return of Yoshiko

    –One of A.J. Styles’ last U.S. indie matches

    –Styles’ big matches this week in Europe

    –Notes on PWG

    –Notes on the death of Wolfman Willie Farkus

    –GFW’s second U.K. tour

    –Update on Nikita Koloff

    –Crockett nostalgia show

    –WWC’s first big show of the year

    –Grandson of Carolinas legend in college football championship game

    –Update on Lucha Underground’s television situation

    –Notes on the second Ultima Lucha

    –Notes from the weekend Lucha Underground tapings and new direction

    –Notes on all the new talent at Lucha Underground

    –Notes on the next month of ROH television

    –Notes on the next ROH PPV lineup

    –Notes on ROH contracts

    –Update on Matt Taven knee injury

    –Lots of new ROH main events

    –Notes on TNA contracts

    –Notes on TNA U.K. shows

    –Vince Russo talks his TNA stay and departure and lots of never before backstage notes about what really happened

    –Notes on a TNA newcomer and why it’s emblematic of behind the times decision making

    –Notes on the next month of TNA television

    –Dana White on Georges St-Pierre

    –Notes on UFC’s show this week

    –Thoughts on Cruz vs. Dillashaw

    –New UFC European shows

    –B.J. Penn potential return

    –UFC fines three fighters for dress code violations

    –Update on Ronda Rousey’s acting

    –Jose Aldo talks about his future and what he won’t do

    –New UFC fighters

    –Royce Gracie tax issues

    –One FC bungles part of its new policy already

    You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer

    You can also order print issues at www.paypal.com directing funds to dave@wrestlingobserver.com

    Rates are:

    For the United States, it is $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52.  In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to moonsault@mediaplusint.com  For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52.

    If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.

    If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can get one free classic issue of your choice sent to you today.  With a 40 issue subscription, you can get two free classic issues sent to you today. 

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

  • Daily Update: Tim Kennedy threatened by ISIS, Stephanie getting ready for Mania

    We’re looking for reports on tonight’s NXT house shows in Milwaukee and Winter Haven, FL to Dave Meltzer

    SMACKDOWN TONIGHT AT 8 P.M. ON THE USA NETWORK

    Dudleys vs Erick Rowan & Luke Harper in a tables match

    Zack Ryder & Jack Swagger & Damien Sandow & Goldust vs. Heath Slater & Curtis Axel & Adam Rose & Bo Dallas

    Kalisto vs. Alberto Del Rio for U.S. title

    Becky Lynch vs. Brie Bella

    Dean Ambrose & Neville vs. Sheamus & Kevin Owens

    The Kalisto vs. Del Rio title match was said to be really good.

    If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our new Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today!  We have two new quick video clips up on our Youtube page, so check it out and subscribe today for more!

    Figure Four Weekly

    Figure Four Weekly 1/4/2016: More on Gawker motioning to dismiss Hulk Hogan lawsuit

    More information on Gawker’s motion to dismiss Hulk Hogan’s sex tape lawsuit, tons more.

    Wrestling Observer Newsletter

    The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: January 18, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: NJPW strips Nakamura, Sting to HOF

    An update on Shinsuke Nakamura, WWE and New Japan Pro Wrestling is the lead story of the new issue of the Wrestling Observer.  His departure, not losing the IC title in the ring, the decision making surrounding it, Nakamura’s final matches in Japan and his start in the U.S., New Japan’s next two PPV shows, and the future of the IC title.

    Nick Diaz’s updated suspension, Diaz vs. Robbie Lawler, and the welterweight division title situation.  UFC 197 through 200 with talk about what is next for Ronda Rousey, Jon Jones vs. Daniel Cormier, MMA in New York, what huge publicity coup UFC had that fell apart, is UFC too confident about high ticket prices, and a number of future main events.  The plans for C.M. Punk’s debut.

    Lots of WrestleMania updates, including what is on the books and other key matches.  We’ve got more on John Cena’s surgery, updates on a number of WWE injuries, a look at the first Smackdown on USA, more on brain injuries to fighters and wrestlers, Notes on the next NXT tapings, new WWE camps, double standards, Linda McMahon update, NXT weekend, and football background of two NXT stars.

    Rundowns of all the WWE & NXT house shows over the weekend and business notes.  Updates on Royal Rumble.

    A feature on Sting and his career, from growing up through Memphis, through WCW and TNA and his final run in WWE.  How he got started, his first break, the Ric Flair match that made him a star, when he was originally going to win the NWA title and why it was delayed, what happened when he was champion, the Hogan vs. Sting disaster, how he ended up in TNA.

    Full coverage of TNA’s tapings and PPV, contract issues, the Matt Hardy situation and what is the short-term future for television.

    Yoel Romero and his potential test failure and how this changes the middleweight division.  Romero’s background, fighter reactions to his test failure.

    The future of the AAA Mega championship and the current plans for Guerra de Titanes, the first major show of 2016 in AAA.

    PLUS MUCH MORE! CLICK HERE FOR A FULL WRESTLING OBSERVER PREVIEW

    You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer

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    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

    Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: November 23, 1998 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: WWF Survivor Series review, Rock becomes Corporate Champion
    A full review of WWF Survivor Series with The Rock becoming the Corporate Champion, more WCW woes, plus tons of news.

    THURSDAY NEWS UPDATE

    The book “Whatever Happened to Gorgeous George?” on pro wrestling, written in the early 70s by Sports Illustrated’s Joe Jares, is being reprinted by Crowbar Press.  It was the best wrestling book of its era.  For more info

    Tim Kennedy has noted that ISIS has been threatening him and the FBI has been investigating it.  He essentially went on social media and challenged them saying, “Let those cowards come.”   Kennedy will also be a guest on Michael Bisping’s Countdown show on Sirius XM Rush Ch. 923 at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. tonight.  I’m guessing Yoel Romero will come up. 

    Stephanie McMahon on Twitter talked about how she’s getting into shape for WrestleMania.

    Jerry Millen, the Vice President of Rizin, Tweeted today that Fedor Emelianenko would not be fighting on the 4/17 show in Nagoya, but would return later in the year.  

    National Wrestling Hall of Fame induction ceremony is being pushed back one week to 7/22 and 7/23 and still in Waterloo, IA of course.  The induction will include myself and Chael Sonnen!

    WWE

    • Tomorrow’s WWE lineup for New Delhi, India, its first show in India in more than 12 years: Roman Reigns vs. Big Show for WWE title, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, New Day vs. Usos, Charlotte vs. Summer Rae for the Divas title, Ryback vs. Rusev (who returns on this show), Dolph Ziggler vs. Tyler Breeze, Lovepreet Singh vs. Jason Jordan, Satender Ved Pat vs. Chad Gable  —  Jordan & Gable have been working with the two at the Performance Center for their debuts in their home country which is why they are on the tour.  I believe this is Gable’s main roster debut as well.
    • The Hall of Fame pre-sale tickets were a quick sellout yesterday.  The remaining tickets held back go on sale tomorrow morning and will be sold out quickly.
    • Ric Flair appears as part of the Days of the Dead festival on 2/5 to 2/7 at the Sheraton in Atlanta.
    • WWE stock was up 73 cents per share today, which is a rebound plus after a bad day yesterday, to close to $16.83 per share. 

    UFC/MMA

    • The Bellator Fan Fest in Houston featuring Kurt Angle, Tito Ortiz, Liam McGeary, Phil Davis and Randy Couture was announced for 2/18 at Dave & Buster’s from 8-11 p.m.  They did one of these in San Jose and it drew a huge crowd.
    • There is a last minute change for Sunday’s UFC show in Boston.  Augusto Mendes, who was just announced a few days ago as a replacement to face Charles Rosa, has dropped off the show.  Kyle Bochniak (6-0) is debuting to face Rosa literally three days before the fight.  The main event of this show is  TJ Dillashaw defending his bantamweight title against Dominick Cruz.
    • Cris Cyborg, will headline an Invicta show Saturday night, on Fight Pass. 
    • Urijah Faber appears in a TV commercial in Sacramento for Bell Brothers, a Sacramento Air Conditioning and plumbing company.
    • Paul Fontaine previews the RFA show tomorrow night on AXS which is one of their bigger shows as far as star power
    • ONE Championship on 1/29 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia features Ev Ting of Malaysia vs. Eric Kelly of The Philippines in the main event. 

    MISCELLANEOUS

    • There is a huge nostalgia show on 2/26 in Raleigh at the Dorton Arena, the old home of pro wrestling in that city.  It features two cage matches with the Rock & Roll Express vs. Warlord & Barbarian, who will be managed by Jim Cornette, and Road Warrior Animal with be the gatekeeper.  Also appearing are Lex Luger, Jimmy Valiant and Scott Steiner.  And the second cage match is Matt Hardy defending the TNA title against Ethan Carter III.
    • Evolve has a big show on 1/23 in Orlando at the Downtown Rec Complex featuring an autograph signing of Jason Jordan & Chad Gable, an appearance by William Regal plus matches in their tag team tournament which features an amazing lineup with Timothy Thatcher & Zack Sabre Jr., Chris Hero & Tommy End, Trent Baretta & Rocky Romero, Johnny Gargano & Drew Galloway, Caleb Konley & Anthony Nese, Drew Gulak & TJ Perkins, The Bravado Brothers and Team Tremendous.
    • A story on longtime wrestling announcer Bob Caudle
    • Infinity Pro Wrestling on 1/30 in Bloomington, IN at the National Guard Armory
    • Absolute Intense Wrestling on 2/12 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Cleveland features Missy Hyatt, plus Alex Shelley vs. Candice LaRae, Heidi Lovelace vs. Veda Scott and more.
    • Smash Wrestling on 2/6 in Oshawa, ONT at the Harmony Creek Community and Events Centre.
    • CHIKARA’s first show of the year will be a doubleheader at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on 1/30 Philadelphia at The Wrestle Factory. 
    • BANG on 1/23 in Ocala, FL at the new BANG Sound Stage at 2501 SW 57th Ave. #605, featuring Dory Funk Jr. and Johnny Magnum.
    • Future Stars of Wrestling tomorrow night in Las Vegas for New Year’s Resolution at the FSW Arena at 7 p.m. with Kevin Kross, Sinn Bohdi, and an appearance by Jake Roberts. 
    • There will be a fund raiser for Connor’s Cure on 1/24 at The Lounge Bar in Luton, England at 10:30 p.m. to 4:30 a.m. with a Royal Rumble viewing party.  Rock Bottom Radio is putting this on and they encourage fans to dress like your favorite wrestler.
    • GOUGE returns on Saturday night for the Redneck Rumble in Fuquay Varina, NC at 5 p.m. at the Draft Line Brewing Company.  The show is free.
    • Jason Kincaid will be headlining CWE shows from 2/19 to 2/25 in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
    • IWF Winter Warfare on 1/16 at 7 p.m. at the IWF Centre in Nutley, NJ. 

    ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY: Daily pro wrestling history (01/14): Christian Cage wins TNA/NWA World Title

  • Josh Nason’s Punch-Out: MMA Junkie’s Mike Bohn on UFC Boston, CM Punk, BJ Penn

    With UFC Boston days away, New England native and JNPO host Josh Nason is pumped like Bob Sapp after he’s found an easy payday, so he brought in MMA Junkie and Rolling Stone writer Mike Bohn to revel in what’s to come, as well as discuss a pretty wild news week in the world of MMA.

    This week’s show is free for everyone — the perfect opportunity to sample a show if you’ve been thinking about trying us out. Please share freely!

    On the menu today:

    – This Sunday’s UFC Boston and the difficult question of the ultimate head vs. heart pick: T.J. Dillashaw vs. Dominick Cruz

    – Why Mike thinks Anthony Pettis vs. Eddie Alvarez is also a head vs. heart pick

    – Thoughts on Nick Diaz’s suspension being lifted and what could be next for him

    – MIke’s thoughts on Ronda Rousey from his past talks with her and his thoughts on Rousey being off UFC 200

    – Whether Mickey Gall might have an advantage over CM Punk if they do fight this summer

    – Whether Mike wants to see BJ Penn return and whether there’s a better chance of GSP returning instead

    – Thoughts on the recent UFC equipment violations

    – And more!

    Right click below to save the file or just click to listen. 

    *****

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  • WOL 1/14: Steve Austin to WrestleMania, Dave Meltzer interview, more!

    Wrestling Observer Live with Bryan Alvarez and Mike Sempervive returns today to talk all the news in wrestling and MMA including Steve Austin’s return to WrestleMania, Wanderlei Silva free to fight in Japan, questions, text messages, plus the latest from the Wrestling Observer with Dave Meltzer! A fun show as always so check it out~!

    Right click save