Category: Daily Updates

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Starrcade Special
Before there was Wrestlemania, there was Starcade
Re-live WCW’s biggest event before the “Death of WCW”

Sale Price only Valid until September 30th

$109.95* USD for Canada destinations
$119.95** USD for USA destinations
$159.95*** USD for International destinations
(paypal orders Canada/USA please add $5 for paypal fees)
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paypal payments can be made to grantsindex@nexicom.net

18 great Observers covering Starrcade events and other great news stories that occurred in those issues.

January’84, January’85, December 9’85, December 8’86, December 7’87, January 2’89, December 26’89, December 24’90, January 6’92,
January 4’93, January 3’94, January 2’95, January 8’96, January 6’97, January 5’98, January 4’99, December 28’99, December 25’00

**Check out my Wrestling, UFC/MMA ebay auctions and more. Seller name is grantsindex
Some great vintage programs up right now including vintage Calgary Stampede Wrestling classics! Email me if you want to make a multiple item ebay purchase before you bid on something

*Regular selling price for Canada $119, a $9 savings
**Regular selling price for USA $128, a $8 savings
***Regular selling price for International $192 a $32 savings

Includes airmail shipping.

All payments can be made by money order in US Funds (US Postal money
Orders MUST BE PEACH international ones) and mailed to
Grant Zwarych
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K9J 5C5
Canada

Or paid via paypal to grantsindex@nexicom.net

Enjoy!!

1984
January (20)        NWA Starrcade ’83-A Flair for the Gold 11/24 card coverage
Ric Flair cover    Wrestling notebook coverage of all the territories news and champions, including
            -opening of All Japan tag tourney
            -Inoki voted back in as president of New Japan
            -Brody & Murdoch appear in Southwest
            -World Class draws 19,200 to Thanksgiving show headlined by Kerry vs Hayes
            -Jesse Ventura leaves CWA/Jarrett promotions; Lawler “wins” Southern title

1985
Jan. 10 (52)**        1984 Observer Awards Winners
($18)            1984 in Review
Dynamite Kid cover        1984 Wrestling Ratings
            Champions of 1984
NWA Starrcade ’84-The Million Dollar Challenge 11/22 card coverage
            Inside Japan Wrestling
            Wrestling notebook covering all the territories news and champions including
            -Sgt Slaughter wants to renegotiate contract, Vince dismisses Sarge from WWF
            -Tsuruta & Tenryu win annual All Japan tournament
            -Atsushi Onita announces retirement
            -Kevin Sullivan wins Southwest title
            -Flair retains belt vs Kerry Von Erich in Dallas Christmas card
            -Brad Armstrong wins North American title from Ernie Ladd
            -Michael Hayes now booking Florida

1985
Dec.9 (8)            NWA Starrcade ’85-The Gathering 11/28 card coverage
Magnum TA wins U.S. title from Tully Blanchard
            WWF & AWA go head to head in St Paul
            WWF & NWA go head to head in St Louis
            NJPW & Mid South reach talent agreement
            Crush Girls to wrestle in Madison Square Gardens

1986
Dec. 8 (10)        John Tatum injured in 11/26 car accident
            NWA Starrcade ’86 Night of the Skywalkers card coverage
            Bruiser Brody walks out on New Japan
            UWF Superdome Thanksgiving card coverage

1987
Dec. 7 (10)        Survivor Series 11/26 & Starrcade ‘87 Chi-Town Heat 11/26 card coverage
            The best & worst of above
            Ric Flair regains NWA belt from Ron Garvin
            NWA debut card at Nassau Coliseum
            Greg Gagne apparently wins AWA title from Curt Henning

1989
Jan.2 (8)            NWA Starrcade ’88 True Gritt 12/26 card coverage
            Michael Hayes, Butch Reed & Brian Pillman headed to NWA
            2 other big names rumored to be NWA bound
            A look back to reflect and a look ahead at the state of pro wrestling

1989
Dec. 26 (10)        NWA Starrcade ‘89 Future Shock 12/13 card coverage & poll results   
            The future of Flair & the NWA title
            Tully Blanchard, cocaine and wrestling
            ESPN may drop AWA
            Haystacks Calhoun passes away
            Jarrett concerned about CWA

1990
Dec. 24 (10)        “The Grinch That Stole Wrestling” by James E Cornette
        NWA Starrcade ’90-Collision Course 12/16 card coverage
        Iron Mike Mazurki passes away
        Lou Thesz to wrestle 12/26-will have competed in 6 different decades
        El Canek wins UWA title from Vader
            Tokyo Sports awards   

1992
Jan 6 (10)            Steroid Update-Inside Edition story
            WCW Starrcade ‘91-The Lethal Lottery 12/29 card coverage
            Wilbur Snyder passes away
            Couple of big changes going into NJPW/WCW Tokyo Egg Dome show
            Dave’s review of the 12/12 SWS/WWF/PWF/EMLL Egg Dome show
            Details of the proposed bill to regulate pro wrestling in Florida

1993
Jan 4 (10)            Starrcade ’92 12/28 card coverage
            Jesse Ventura interview by Mike Tenay
            Motoshi Okuma passes away
            Status of Flair in WWF subject of lots of speculation
            Jeff Jarrett wins Southern title from Brian Christopher

1994
Jan 3 (10)            Flair wins WCW title from Vader-Ric Flair career history
            Starrcade 12/27/93 card coverage
            Canek regains UWA title from Vampiro Casanova 12/19
            Hurricane Castillo Sr passes away
            Antonia Pena heading to Japan to negotiate talent deal for AAA

1995
Jan 2 (12)            Starrcade ‘94 12/27card coverage – Honky Tonk Man quits prior to match
            Who draws money? A list of all 10,000 + crowds of 1994 and analysis
            Jean Paul Levesque future in WCW up in the air
            WWF rehires Jim Ross to work in booking and producing TV           
            Kama debuts in WWF as a UFC fighter character
            Rogeau situation turning into a family feud

1996
Jan 8 (12)            Starrcade ‘95 12.27 card coverage-Flair wins WCW title from Savage-
            WWF announces Vader for the Royal Rumble
            WCW reinstates blading after Bret Hart juice job done 10 days earlier
            ECW draws sellout in their New York City debut

1997
Jan 6 (12)            ECW to debut on PPV
            Starrcade 12/29/96 card coverage
            AAA possibly in trouble of losing TV
            Jerry Jarrett’s selling of his 50% of USWA confirmed
            Omar Marchessault passes away
            Some notes on Steve Nelson’s Unified Shoot Wrestling Federation

1998   
Jan 5* (16)            Rumor of Antonio Inoki retirement announcement
(cover date error)        Starrcade ‘97 12/28 card coverage- Sting wins WCW title vs Hogan, DDP wins US title vs Henning
            Royce Gracie injury ends up in Pride 2 card being postponed
            NHB rules, credibility, promotion methods & matchmaking called into question
            1997 final match quality ratings
            Old USWA territory turns into hotbed outside the ring
            Davey Boy Smith agrees to WCW deal
            Terry Funk debuts in WWF as Chainsaw Charlie

1999
Jan 4 (18)            Mankind wins WWF title from The Rock 12/29
            Obstacles of the promotions this year
            WCW Starrcade ‘98 12/27 card coverage-Nash wins WCW belt from Goldberg
            Jaguar Yokota & Cuty Suzuki retire
            Pancrase 12/19 card coverage
            UFC 1/8 card preview
            Benoit, Malenko & Guerrero agree to terms with WCW

1999
Dec 27 (18)        WCW’s idea to turn things around is same as it was 3 ½ years ago, NWO angle
            Masato Tanaka wins ECW title from Mike Awesome
            Starrcade 12/19 card coverage-Madusa wins cruiserweight title
            Vince Russo lashes out at criticism of his booking
            Tokyo Sports awards
            E!Channel’s True Hollywood Story focuses on Hulk Hogan
            Chris Candito, Tammy Sytch & Axl Rotten fired by ECW

2000
Dec 25 (18)        Blue Demon passes away-career retrospect
Problems backstage at Nitro-fight between Steiner & Page, wrestlers walk off   
Detailed analysis of the state of WCW & ECW
Starrcade card 12/17 coverage
NJPW in major surprise announces Chosu vs Hashimoto for 1/4 Tokyo Dome News not bright in ECW-paychecks don’t come       
            Japanese Sports media awards
            UFC XIX Defence of the Belts 12/16 card coverage
            EMLL Sin Piedad 12/15 Arena Mexico Spectacular card coverage
            New Jack’s status in ECW up in the air

By Dave Meltzer

We’ve got a huge weekend with lots of shows, tons of audio and perhaps the most important match of the year tonight.

We’ll be doing thumbs up, thumbs down and thumbs in the middle and best and worst match polls on CMLL and ROH tonight, Bellator tomorrow and WWE on Sunday at Dave Meltzer

We’re looking for reports on tonight’s WWE show in Montreal (Seth Rollins vs. Dean Ambrose, Bray Wyatt vs. Roman Reigns), NXT in Austin, TX (Bayley vs. Dana Brooke for womens’ title, Samoa Joe vs. Tyler Breeze) land TNA in Morgantown, WV (Ethan Carter III vs. Matt Hardy for TNA title, Bobby Roode vs. Drew Galloway vs. Ken Anderson for King of the Mountain title, Tommy Dreamer vs. Eli Drake falls count anywhere, Gail Kim vs. Awesome Kong, Eddie Edwards & Davey Richards vs. Abyss & Manik, DJ Zema Ion vs. Tyrus) at Dave Meltzer

CMLL 82nd Anniversary show at 9 p.m. at http://cmll.cleeng.com on iPPV

Esfinge & Fuego & The Panther vs. Disturbio & Puma King & Virus

Guerrero Maya Jr. & Maximo & Stuka Jr. vs. Dragon Rojo & Polvora & Rey Escorpion

Dark Angel (Mexico City farewell before starting with WWE as a trainer) vs. Princesa Sugei

Dragon Lee & Mistico & Valiente vs. Negro Casas & Felino & Mr. Niebla

Shocker & Volador Jr. & Ultimo Guerrero vs. Marco Corleone & Rush & Thunder

Atlantis vs. La Sombra mask vs. mask 

ROH on PPV at 9 p.m. from the Shrine Auditorium in San Antonio

Mark & Jay Briscoe vs. ?

Silas Young vs. Dalton Castle – If Young wins, he gets the boys, if Castle wins, Young becomes one of the boys

Moose vs. Cedric Alexander no DQ

Matt Sydal vs. ACH match three in best of five

A.J. Styles vs. Roderick Strong vs. Adam Cole vs. Michael Elgin – winner gets an ROH title shot

Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian vs. Young Bucks vs. Matt Taven & Michael Bennett for ROH tag titles

Jay Lethal vs. Bobby Fish for TV title

Jay Lethal vs. Kyle O’Reilly for ROH title

New Japan World Pro Wrestling Returns on AXS at 9 p.m. Eastern

Chase Owens vs. Jushin Liger for NWA jr. title

Ryusuke Taguchi vs Taichi for IWGP jr. title

Alex Shelley & Kushida vs. Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly for IWGP Jr. tag titles

World Series of Fighting tonight at 10 p.m. Eastern on NBC Sports Network

Justin Gaethje (14-0 vs. Luis Palomino (23-10) for lightweight title

Dave Branch (16-3) vs. Teddy Holder (9-0) to crown the first light heavyweight champion

Timor Valiev (9-1) vs. Tito Jones (11-7)

Ben Fodor (Phoenix Jones) (5-1-1) vs. Roberto Yong (2-2)

Brian Foster (22-7) vs. La Rue Burley (6-0)

RFA tonight at 10 p.m. on AXS

Don Hamilton vs. Kassius Holdorf

James Nakashima vs. Chance Rencountre

Grant Dawson vs. Clay Wimer

Zach Juusola vs. Robert Rojas Jr.

Matt Brown vs. Derrick Minner

Ryan Roberts vs. Adam Townsend

Brock Jardine vs. Anthony Smith

Pro Wrestling NOAH on Saturday at the Edion Arena in Osaka

Yoshihiro Takayama & Mohammed Yone & Akitoshi Saito & Quiet Storm vs. Kenou & Hajime Ohara & Genba Hirayanagi & Captain NOAH

Desperado & Taka Michinoku vs. Mitsuhiro Kitamiya & Kota Umeda

Super Crazy & Hitoshi Kumano vs. Buffalo & Billy Ken Kid for the jr. tag tourney

Yoshinari Ogawa & Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Taiji Ishimori & Masamune for jr. tag tourney

Shelton Benjamin vs. Katsuhiko Nakajima

Naomichi Marufuji vs. Atsushi Kotoge

Maybach Taniguchi vs. Takashi Iizuka no DQ

Taichi vs Daisuke Harada for GHC jr. title

Lance Archer & Davey Boy Smith Jr. vs. Ray Rowe & Hanson for GHC tag titles

Minoru Suzuki vs. Takashi Sugiura for GHC title, no DQ, no count out, no stopping on blood, no time limit, nobody allowed at ringside special ref Tiger Hattori

Saturday we’re looking for reports on WWE in Waco, TX (Seth Rollins vs. Dean Ambrose, Bray Wyatt vs. Roman Reigns), ROH TV tapings in San Antonio (Jay Briscoe vs. Adam Page, Jay Lethal vs. Takaaki Watanabe for TV title, ACH vs. Matt Sydal, plus The Addiction, Young ?Bucks, A.J. Styles, Mark Briscoe, Matt Taven, Michael Bennett, Adam Cole, Silas Young, Dalton Castle, Moose and Cedric Alexander), NXT also in San Antonio (Finn Balor vs. Tyler Breeze for NXT title, Vaudevillains vs. Blake & Murphy in Dusty Rhodes tag team tournament), TNA in Belle Vernon, PA (Ethan Carter III vs. Matt Hardy for TNA title, Drew Galloway vs. Tyrus, Ken Anderson vs. Eli Drake, Madison Rayne vs. Awesome Kong, Eddie Edwards & Davey Richards vs. Abyss & Manik, DJ Zema Ion vs. Tyrus plus Kurt Angle and Jeff Hardy appear).

Bellator Dynamite 1 from San Jose Saturday night on Spike TV at 9 p.m. Eastern

Linton Vassell (15-4-1) vs. King Mo (15-4, 1 no contest) in first round of light heavyweight tournament

Phil Davis (13-3) vs. Emanuel Newton (25-8-1) in first round of light heavyweight tournament

Kerri Taylor Melendez (2-1) vs. Hadley Griffith (0-0) in Glory kickboxing

Paul Daley (20-3) vs. Fernando Gonzalez (1-2) in Glory kickboxing

Josh Thomson (20-8) vs. Mike Bronzoulis (18-8-1)

Saulo Cavalari (31-2) vs. Zack Mwekessa (13-2) for the Glory light heavyweight title

Light heavyweight tournament finals

Liam McGeary (10-0) vs. Tito Ortiz (18-11) for Bellator light heavyweight title

Titan Fighting Championships from Ridgefield, WA on UFC Fight Pass Saturday night

Ricky Simon vs. Alex Soto

Zane Kamaka vs. Belel Muhammed

Steven Siler vs. Austin Springer

Tim Elliott vs Felipe Efran

Andre Harrison vs. Desmond Green for featherweight title

Pat Healy vs Rick Hawn for lightweight title

WWE Night of Champions PPV at 7 p.m. Eastern on WWE network

Seth Rollins vs. Sting for WWE title

Seth Rollins vs. John Cena for U.S. title

Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose & ? vs. Bray Wyatt & Luke Harper & Braun Strowman

Nikki Bella vs. Charlotte for Divas title, title can change hands via DQ or count out

Dolph Ziggler vs. Rusev

New Day vs. Dudleys for tag titles

Neville & The Lucha Dragons vs. Stardust & The Ascension preshow match

Raw will be Monday night in Laredo, TX.  For what it’s worth, and it wasn’t worth much last week, Randy Orton is scheduled on the show.

Smackdown will be taped Tuesday in Corpus Christi with Roman Reigns, Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins and Sheamus as the top advertised stars.

New Japan Destruction in Okayama PPV on Tuesday night at 11 p.m. Pacific and 2 a.m. Eastern on New Japan World

Sho Tanaka & Yohei Komatsu & Yuji Nagata & Katsuyori Shibata vs. Jay White & David Finlay & Manabu Nakanishi & Tetsuya Naito

Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly vs. Jushin Liger & Mascara Dorada non-title

Steve Anthony vs. Tiger Mask for NWA jr. title

Hiroshi Tanahashi & Matt Sydal vs. Bad Luck Fale & Tama Tonga

Doc Gallows & Karl Anderson vs. Satoshi Kojima & Hiroyoshi Tenzan for IWGP tag titles

Hirooki Goto & Tomoaki Honma & Captain New Japan & Ryusuke Taguchi & Alex Shelley vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Tomohiro Ishii & Yoshi-Hashi & Rocky Romero & Baretta

Kazuchika Okada & Toru Yano vs. A.J. Styles & Cody Hall

Kushida vs. Kenny Omega for IWGP jr. title

Togi Makabe vs. Kota Ibushi for Never Open weight title

We’ve got a look at WWE right now with the issues that have led to ratings setting record lows as well as an update on TNA, New Japan, GFW, ROH and everyone else in the battle for No. 2, as the lead stories in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.  This issue also has a detailed look at the Nick Diaz situation and why it is far more complicated than most are making it out to be, Atlantis vs. La Sombra in one of the year’s biggest matches, a history of the CMLL anniversary shows, a look at Thomas Hauser’s article on USADA, an update on Dr. Christopher Amann’s lawsuit against C.M. Punk and Colt Cabana, what led to the Mayweather flop on PPV and New Japan builds for two PPVs this month.

The latest Wrestling Observer:September 21, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: State of WWE after lowest ratings in years

Web site subscriptions, which include access to both current and older newsletters as well as every audio show in the history of the site.  Sign up here for as low as $9.99 per month!

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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.

The lead story looks at what is and isn’t misleading about the record low ratings for Raw and Smackdown over the past two weeks, the rate of decline, the future of Smackdown, and why wrestling even with lower ratings may be far more valuable to the USA Network when the current contract is over.  We look at the problems that are inherent, those that can be addressed and those that can’t.  We look at why this past week’s Raw rating was far more sobering than the week before as well as how wrestling and every combat sport is changing from an economic situation worldwide.  We look at interviews, finishes, making stars and dropping the ball on stars.  We also look at Night of Champions.

We update the TNA television situation, what promotion had a strong growth year, and the future of No. 2, as well as an update on all of TNA’s TV deals.

We go in depth on Nick Diaz, and what are the key elements of the story, why he got a five year suspension, how Diaz has blown his prime years in fighting, the commissioners discuss the suspension and the deliberations leading to it.  We talk about why comparisons to Anderson Silva and Jon Jones aren’t valid in this case, detail the controversies over the test results, the legal issues involved, and Diaz talks about what happened in childhood that led him to where he is.

We also look at the situation with Jake Shields and the commission ruling on his post-match punch to Rousimar Palhares, as well as his comments on what happened.

We also look at what contracted talent was told about Hulk Hogan, as well as a double standard that is too obvious, the next Takeover special, Update on Lana, Dwayne Johnson makes former WWE writer a major executive in his company, what happened at the recent NXT talent meeting, Daniel Bryan talks about creating new stars, and his health situation as well as PPV matches he wants.

We look at plans for the November European tour, WWE performers and Twitter, Paige talks in detail about her incident with Alicia Fox that turned into a fight of sorts with two other women and how it all went down.  Jimmy Noonan talks issues with WWE security including a story when a fan kicked the ass of a main event wrestler inside the ring one night and how that fan ended up as a wrestler.

We look at another sports star that WWE is bringing in for a tryout, four cast members from Tough Enough who have now signed contracts, this week’s NXT shows, and the father of a WWE wrestler who is an all-time legend in slow-pitch softball.

We’ve got notes on the WWE TV shows as well as the next month of NXT shows, as well as reports on WWE business over the past week, and highlights from all the house shows.

We look at the Atlantis vs La Sombra match, the build to the match, why the match is so big, the last angle and what happened with Dr. Wagner Jr. an L.A. Park.  We also look at a history of the CMLL Anniversary shows, with the big names that have appeared on them and the most famous matches over the years.

We look at Thomas Hauser’s article on USADA and how it related to Floyd Mayweather, what about the article had validity and what was a stretch.  We look at USADA’s drug testing in UFC and what the results so far say, the concept of retroactive TUE’s, a scary aspect of a contract Manny Pacquiao was given and wouldn’t sign, rumors of Mayweather positive tests, and the story behind Erik Morales failing four tests before a fight for Clenbuterol and still fighting.

We update the situation with Dr. Christopher Amann’s lawsuit against C.M. Punk.  We look at the response to the suit filed by Punk and Colt Cabana, WWE’s response and what the key issues in the suit are.

We’ve got notes on the Floyd Mayweather-Andre Berto PPV number and lessons that it has taught.

We also run down this past week’s New Japan show at Korakuen Hall and how it builds the next two PPV shows.

We’ve also got ratings from all the television shows this past week along with results from all the major arena events.

We also update on the last two AAA TV tapings, Genichiro Tenryu’s last match at Korakuen Hall, the Dragon Gate Summer Adventure tag team tournament, the All Japan Open singles tournament, the NOAH jr. heavyweight tournament, New Japan talks about their relationship with WWE and more.

We look at the Japanese female wrestler who broke her record for most world championships, and a new Hall of Fame mixed tag team.

We’ve got notes on Hulk Hogan’s latest media and what he said that simple time lines can disprove, notes on Jimmy Snuka including why there will be a lot more coverage of his story coming up, as well as why his hearing this week was canceled.  We look at the U.S. gold medalists in the world wrestling championships and what wrestler looks like a great UFC or WWE prospect.  We also update GFW and where television stands, look at a star indie wrestler sent to prison, Podcasts involving wrestling personalities, two pro wrestlers at the 1980 Olympic team reunion, an update on House of Hardcore, an update on Kelly Kelly, whatever happened to Chuck Palumbo, former UFC star getting a pro wrestling break, a wrestling show uncovered by a historian that drew 80,000 fans in 1936, the daughter of a WWE Hall of Famer starting wrestling training, and a well known pro wrestler competing under another name in pseudo MMA combat.

We also look at some significant negotiations going on with ROH and a look at the weekend events.

We also look at the Jarrett/Dixie Carter deal, Earl Hebner into the TNA Hall of Fame and his background, an update on Bram and Kurt Angle and Angle’s wrestling schedule.

We look at ticket sales for UFC 194 and how early sales have been, more big fights announced, a UFC signee who will start after competing in the 2016 Olympics, Ronda Rousey in the ESPN poll of the greatest female athlete of all-time, as well as lots of new UFC fights.

We also look at a new Bellator deal, and Scott Coker’s hopes for this week’s show.

We also look at a proposed Chael Sonnen vs. Josh Barnett grappling match, and the return of Ben Askren.

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.

New subscribers ordering 24 or 40 issues have to let us know what major stories of the past 11 years you are most interested in and we’ll send the issue with the best coverage of that story. We’ve got coverage of every major PPV event and world wide spectacular, every major star switching promotions, histories of companies like FMW, Rings and New Japan, retirement and obit issues of every major star who fits into those descriptions over the past 11 years, as well as our biggest issue every year, the annual awards issue, and our most controversial issue of every year, the Hall of Fame issue.

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

FRIDAY’S NEWS UPDATE

• Lots of audio on this gigantic weekend for big shows.  Bryan and I will be doing shows the next four tonights.  Tonight’s show will cover CMLL and ROH, tomorrow we’ll be covering Bellator, Sunday we’ll be covering WWE Night of Champions and Monday we’ll be covering Raw.  With four shows, there’s probably a lot of time for questions at least on some of the shows so you can send them to mailbag@wrestlingobserver.com
• Not that this means anything until an hour before the start of the show, but the odds for WWE at BetWrestling.com are
  Seth Rollins -455
  Sting +315
  Seth Rollins +250
  John Cena -350
  Ryback -140
  Kevin Owens +100
  New Day -230
  Dudleys +170
  Nikki Bella +115
  Charlotte -155
  Dean Ambrose team -150
  Wyatts +110
  Neville’s team +130
  Stardust’s team -170
• Expectations this weekend are that CMLL could approach if not break its all-time gate record tonight.  Bellator has already blown past its all-time gate record for tomorrow.
• Evolve announced on 10/17 in Queens NY that Drew Gulak faces Trevor Lee, with the winner getting an Evolve title shot at Timothy Thatcher on 10/18 in Deer Park, NY.  The loser will wrestle Willie Mack.  Matt Riddle’s first two matches with the promotion and outside the Monster Factory shows will be on 10/17 against Jonathan Gresham and 10/18 against Chris Dickinson.
• Today would have been the 76th birthday of Billy Robinson.  It’s really amazing that for a guy whose entire career was as a pro wrestler, his death got so much more coverage on UFC and MMA broadcasts than pro wrestling broadcasts.
• While this isn’t a pro wrestling or MMA story, although it really is, the Department of Veterans Affairs and Boston University has noted that out of 91 deceased NFL players brains that have been examined, 87 shows symptoms of CTE.  In those who never played pro football, but played college or high school that were tested, 44 out of 74 had symptoms of CTE.
• The WWE Network will be debuting a new Monday night show after Raw called “Legends with JBL,” where John Layfield interviews people from wrestling.  Monday will be Eric Bischoff. 
• Patric Laprade story on Kevin Owens
• One of my friends who has been a paying subscriber to the WWE Network since day one keeps getting an offer for a free month, so they’re actually encouraging paying subscribers to cancel, and get a free month for signing back on.
• Premier Wrestling tomorrow in San Jose at Del Mar High School at 6 p.m.. with JR Kratos (8-2) defending his title against Jeff Cobb (6-2-1), Nicole Savoy & Kahmora vs. Raze & Kikyo Nakamura, Timothy Thatcher (3-2-1) vs. Joe Graves (2-0-1) and more.
• Jim Ross has a talk show on Sunday at the Warehouse Live Ballroom, very close to the Toyota Center, at 2 p.m. for the meet and greet and 4 p.m. for the show.  tickets are at tickerly.com and the box office at the building.  There will be two and a half hours after the show ends before the first prelim goes into the ring at Night of Champions.
• CMLL on Tuesday night in Guadalajara:  Mr. Trueno & Rey Trueno b Divino & Reycko, Cancerbero & Raziel & Sangre Azteca b Gallo & Hombre Bala Jr.. & Super Halcon Jr., Blue Panther Jr. & Esfinge & The Panther b Cuatrero & Sanson & Bobby Zavala-DQ, Angel de Oro & Rey Cometa & Stuka Jr. b Misterioso Jr. & Pierroth & Sagrado, Metalico b Omar Brunetti in a hair vs. hair match, Brazo de Plata & Maximo & Valiente b Euforia & Negro Casas & Ultimo Guerrero
• UWE on Tuesday in Tlanepantla:  Mr. Arana & Arana Negra b Dragon Force & Pakal, Nino Hamburguesa & Goya Kong b Carta Brava Jr. & Hiedra, Daga & Pentagon Jr. & Angelico & Fenix (fans threw money into the ring after this match), Psycho Circus b El Hijo del Fantasma & El Texano Jr. & Mascara Ano 2000 Jr., Blue Demon Jr. & Canek b Pirata Morgan & Villano IV
• There is a Lucha Libre show on 10/8 in Laredo with Alberto El Patron teaming with father Dos Caras & brother El Hijo del Dos Caras to face Mr. Aguila & Pierko & Pirata Morgan (thanks to Kris Zellner)
• NWAClassics.com today has a young Greg Valentine vs. Tiger Conway Jr. plus early David Von Erich footage.
• Less then 70 tickets remain for tonights’ NFC 77 show at Center Stage in Atlanta.
• AAW tonight in Merrionette Park, IL at 115 Bourbon Street is headlined by Ethan Page, The Crist Brothers, Tyson Dux, Matt Cage, Louis Lyndon, Eddie Kingston, Chris Hero, Johnny Gargano, Trevor Lee, Candice LaRae and more.
• Indie band Wavves shot their music video at an Underground Empire Wrestling event (LA hardcore indie promotion).
• Rolling Stone premiered the video

ON THIS DAY IN PRO WRESTLING HISTORY INTERNATIONAL (thanks to Graeme Cameron)

1981 – Alfonso Dantes beat Enrique Vera to win the Mexican national light heavyweight title

1992 – Lizmark beat Universo 2000 in Acapulco to win the Mexican national light heavyweight title

1993 – Mima Shimoda beat Bat Yoshinaga to win the Japanese women’s title

1995 – Fuerza & Juventud Guerrera beat Latin Lover & Panterita del Ring in Nuevo Laredo to win the Mexican National tag titles and Perro Aguayo beat Cien Caras to win the WWA heavyweight title

2006 – Azumi Hyuga beat Manami Toyota on Tokyo to win the JWP title

By Dave Meltzer

We’re looking for reports on tonight’s NXT show in Houston and TNA show in York, PA (Ethan Carter III with Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy, Bobby Roode vs. Drew Galloway vs. Ken Anderson for the King of the Mountain title, Tommy Dreamer vs. Eli Drake in a street fight, Gail Kim vs. Awesome Kong, The Wolves vs. Abyss & Manik, DJ Zema Ion vs. Tyrus) at Dave Meltzerdave@wrestlingobserver.com”>

Smackdown tonight from Little Rock

Paige & Becky Lynch vs. Naomi & Sasha Banks

Devon Dudley vs. Kofi Kingston

Cesaro vs. Big Show

Dolph Ziggler vs. Kevin Owens

Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins & Sheamus 

We’ve got a look at WWE right now with the issues that have led to ratings setting record lows as well as an update on TNA, New Japan, GFW, ROH and everyone else in the battle for No. 2, as the lead stories in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.  This issue also has a detailed look at the Nick Diaz situation and why it is far more complicated than most are making it out to be, Atlantis vs. La Sombra in one of the year’s biggest matches, a history of the CMLL anniversary shows, a look at Thomas Hauser’s article on USADA, an update on Dr. Christopher Amann’s lawsuit against C.M. Punk and Colt Cabana, what led to the Mayweather flop on PPV and New Japan builds for two PPVs this month.

The latest Wrestling Observer:September 21, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: State of WWE after lowest ratings in years

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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.

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.

The lead story looks at what is and isn’t misleading about the record low ratings for Raw and Smackdown over the past two weeks, the rate of decline, the future of Smackdown, and why wrestling even with lower ratings may be far more valuable to the USA Network when the current contract is over.  We look at the problems that are inherent, those that can be addressed and those that can’t.  We look at why this past week’s Raw rating was far more sobering than the week before as well as how wrestling and every combat sport is changing from an economic situation worldwide.  We look at interviews, finishes, making stars and dropping the ball on stars.  We also look at Night of Champions.

We update the TNA television situation, what promotion had a strong growth year, and the future of No. 2, as well as an update on all of TNA’s TV deals.

We go in depth on Nick Diaz, and what are the key elements of the story, why he got a five year suspension, how Diaz has blown his prime years in fighting, the commissioners discuss the suspension and the deliberations leading to it.  We talk about why comparisons to Anderson Silva and Jon Jones aren’t valid in this case, detail the controversies over the test results, the legal issues involved, and Diaz talks about what happened in childhood that led him to where he is.

We also look at the situation with Jake Shields and the commission ruling on his post-match punch to Rousimar Palhares, as well as his comments on what happened.

We also look at what contracted talent was told about Hulk Hogan, as well as a double standard that is too obvious, the next Takeover special, Update on Lana, Dwayne Johnson makes former WWE writer a major executive in his company, what happened at the recent NXT talent meeting, Daniel Bryan talks about creating new stars, and his health situation as well as PPV matches he wants.

We look at plans for the November European tour, WWE performers and Twitter, Paige talks in detail about her incident with Alicia Fox that turned into a fight of sorts with two other women and how it all went down.  Jimmy Noonan talks issues with WWE security including a story when a fan kicked the ass of a main event wrestler inside the ring one night and how that fan ended up as a wrestler.

We look at another sports star that WWE is bringing in for a tryout, four cast members from Tough Enough who have now signed contracts, this week’s NXT shows, and the father of a WWE wrestler who is an all-time legend in slow-pitch softball.

We’ve got notes on the WWE TV shows as well as the next month of NXT shows, as well as reports on WWE business over the past week, and highlights from all the house shows.

We look at the Atlantis vs La Sombra match, the build to the match, why the match is so big, the last angle and what happened with Dr. Wagner Jr. an L.A. Park.  We also look at a history of the CMLL Anniversary shows, with the big names that have appeared on them and the most famous matches over the years.

We look at Thomas Hauser’s article on USADA and how it related to Floyd Mayweather, what about the article had validity and what was a stretch.  We look at USADA’s drug testing in UFC and what the results so far say, the concept of retroactive TUE’s, a scary aspect of a contract Manny Pacquiao was given and wouldn’t sign, rumors of Mayweather positive tests, and the story behind Erik Morales failing four tests before a fight for Clenbuterol and still fighting.

We update the situation with Dr. Christopher Amann’s lawsuit against C.M. Punk.  We look at the response to the suit filed by Punk and Colt Cabana, WWE’s response and what the key issues in the suit are.

We also update on the last two AAA TV tapings, Genichiro Tenryu’s last match at Korakuen Hall, the Dragon Gate Summer Adventure tag team tournament, the All Japan Open singles tournament, the NOAH jr. heavyweight tournament, New Japan talks about their relationship with WWE and more.

We also look at some significant negotiations going on with ROH and a look at the weekend events.

We also look at the Jarrett/Dixie Carter deal, Earl Hebner into the TNA Hall of Fame and his background, an update on Bram and Kurt Angle and Angle’s wrestling schedule.

We look at ticket sales for UFC 194 and how early sales have been, more big fights announced, a UFC signee who will start after competing in the 2016 Olympics, Ronda Rousey in the ESPN poll of the greatest female athlete of all-time, as well as lots of new UFC fights.

We also look at a new Bellator deal, and Scott Coker’s hopes for this week’s show.

We also look at a proposed Chael Sonnen vs. Josh Barnett grappling match, and the return of Ben Askren.

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.

New subscribers ordering 24 or 40 issues have to let us know what major stories of the past 11 years you are most interested in and we’ll send the issue with the best coverage of that story. We’ve got coverage of every major PPV event and world wide spectacular, every major star switching promotions, histories of companies like FMW, Rings and New Japan, retirement and obit issues of every major star who fits into those descriptions over the past 11 years, as well as our biggest issue every year, the annual awards issue, and our most controversial issue of every year, the Hall of Fame issue.

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

THURSDAY’S NEWS UPDATE

• Fedor Emelianenko is here in San Jose for the weekend for the Bellator show.  He said that his announcement, that he originally said would be at the end of the month, regarding his comeback, may be delayed.  He said the deal is not completed right now.  He said he’s enjoying training and his injuries have healed, and estimates being four months from his first fight back.
• The ring, cage and stage set up for Saturday’s show takes up almost the entire floor.  They were setting the arena up this morning.  The show has already destroyed every Bellator gate record in its history.  Based on local reaction, Tito Ortiz is still a draw and this is a good MMA city when they are given what the people consider a marquee show.
• The debate last night destroyed everyone’s ratings.  Ultimate Fighter was down to 463,000 viewers for the first episode.  TNA did 258,000 viewers at 9 p.m., its lowest to date, on the show where the future of the company was at stake.  ROH did 89,000 viewers, which is by far its low since being down to one airing.  The TNA replay did 62,000 viewers, which is not its all-time low, but well below average.  The Republic debate drew 23.06 million viewers on CNN and went head-to-head with both TNA and Ultimate Fighter, and the debate and post-debate coverage went against ROH.
• Dana White said today that if Conor McGregor beats Jose Aldo, that they have promised him that his first title defense will be at Croke Park in Dublin.  White actually said this back in July after McGregor beat Chad Mendes, that they had made that deal with him.  That will mean for the first time in years, UFC will do a PPV out of its regular time slot, and it will be an afternoon show instead of a prime time show in the U.S.
• A more detailed version of USADA corrections to the Thomas Hauser article
• A major discussion on concussions at the start of hour two of this show, a lot of which relates to  Daniel Bryan
• EPIX TV is doing a documentary called “DOPED,” a one hour show covering USADA.  Thomas Hauser will be the guest, as will reps from USADA, WADA and Victor  Conte.  It should be interesting given the Hauser article and USADA response today.  The show will air on 9/30.
• Expect a TNA departure in 24 hours and counting.
• Gail Kim defends the Knockouts title against Awesome Kong at Bound for Glory on 10/4.
• UFC has announced a 2/6 show in Las Vegas on PPV as well as a 1/30 show on FOX.  There will also be another PPV on 3/5.  Also announced are FS 1 dates on 2/21, 2/27 (from the O2 Arena in London) and 3/19.
• Paige VanZant has signed to face Joanne Calderwood on the 12/10 UFC show in Las Vegas on Fight Pass.  VanZant has also signed a new UFC contract.
• For Saturday night’s Minoru Suzuki vs. Takashi Sugiura GHC title match in Osaka, it was announced today that New Japan’s Tiger Hattori will be the guest referee.  The match is billed as having an absolute conclusion, meaning no time limit, and can only end by pin, submission or knockout.  Nobody is allowed at ringside from either NOAH or Suzuki-gun.  But there will be back-up referees at ringside.  The show also has Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Lance Archer defending the tag titles against War Machine, Taichi vs. Daisuke Harada for the GHC jr. title and Maybach Taniguchi vs. Takashi Iizuka no DQ and no count out.
• UFC’s Leslie Smith has said she will no longer fight in Las Vegas, protesting the five year suspension of Nick Diaz. 
• NXT tonight in Houston has Finn Balor vs. Tyler Breeze for the NXT title, Bayley vs. Emma for the women’s title and Samoa Joe vs. Baron Corbin.
• Tomorrow’s NXT in Austin, going head-to-head with ROH’s PPV show in nearby San Antonio, has Bayley vs. Dana Brooke for the women’s title and Joe vs. Breeze.  The Sunday show in San Antonio, against the ROH tapings, has Balor vs. Breeze again and Vaudevillains vs. Blake & Murphy as part of the Dusty Rhodes tag team tournament.
• WWE stock ended up unchanged today, closing at $19.05 per share.
• Here is a link of pics including Edge as the character Atom Smasher on the TV Series The Flash.  Of the 28 pics, you can see him at pics 25 and 26.
• CWE on 10/3 in Morden,, Manitoba with an eight woman Battle Royal.
• World Series of Fighting airs at 10 p.m. tomorrow night on NBC Sports with Justin Gaethje vs. Luis Palomino for the lightweight title and David Branch vs. Teddy Holder to decide the first WSOF light heavyweight title.  Former Seattle crime fighter Phoenix Jones, real name Ben Fodor, returns on the show.
• WWE’s Matt Bloom, who stars in the movie “The Dog Wedding,” will be appearing at a red carpet premiere on 9/21 in Boston,  The plot of the movie is that a German businesswoman (Rosalie Thomass) falls for an American pro wrestler (Bloom) while planning a wedding for her British Bulldog.  The premiere will be at the AMC Loews Boston Common at 7:30 p.m.
• Honky Tonk Man and Bushwhacker Luke Williams will headline for the IWF in Nutley, NJ on 10/10 at the IWF Centre.  They will also do a meet and greet.
• Story on Dwayne Johnson’s girlfriend expecting a baby
• A story on the Jake Roberts documentary and its Atlanta premiere
• Alberto Del Rio, whose MMA announcing debut is tonight at 11 p.m. Eastern, talks C.M. Punk
  “It’s going to be difficult, but I know he’s been busting his ass for months and months,” Patron told Sporting News. “I know he’s going to be ready. He’s an athlete. He has the passion. He’s hungry for that and I know a lot of people want him to not do well.”
  “I’m 100 percent sure he’s going to do just fine,” Patron said of Punk. “I’m going to be there that day to support him and I just wish him success. Not luck because he doesn’t need luck. He’s going to succeed in this venture.”
  Patron also discusses why people want to see pro wrestlers fail when they transition to MMA.
  Here is the link to the article
• A 1989 Bruno Sammartino interview
• Frenchy Martin talks the murder of Dino Bravo

By Dave Meltzer

dave@wrestlingobserver.com”>dave@wrestlingobserver.com

We’re looking for reports on tonight’s NXT show in Houston and TNA show in York, PA (Ethan Carter III with Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy, Bobby Roode vs. Drew Galloway vs. Ken Anderson for the King of the Mountain title, Tommy Dreamer vs. Eli Drake in a street fight, Gail Kim vs. Awesome Kong, The Wolves vs. Abyss & Manik, DJ Zema Ion vs. Tyrus) at dave@wrestlingobserver.com”>dave@wrestlingobserver.com

Smackdown tonight from Little Rock

Paige & Becky Lynch vs. Naomi & Sasha Banks

Devon Dudley vs. Kofi Kingston

Cesaro vs. Big Show

Dolph Ziggler vs. Kevin Owens

Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins & Sheamus

Wrestling Observer Newsletter 

A look at this weekend, which is one of the biggest weekends of the year with Bellator and CMLL having their biggest shows, plus a WWE PPV show and an ROH PPV, is one of the lead stories in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.  We also have a look at the 2015 Hall of Fame ballot, tons more on the Jimmy Snuka case, An update on TNA and the future of Kurt Angle, a letter UFC sent to all its fighters about unionization, plus full coverage of UFC 191 and Battle of Los Angeles, and thoughts behind Raw & Smackdown doing record low numbers.

The latest Wrestling Observer:September 21, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: State of WWE after lowest ratings in years

The latest issue of the Wrestling Observer: September 14, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Huge Weekend Preview, WWE/CMLL/ROH/Bellator

Web site subscriptions, which include access to both current and older newsletters as well as every audio show in the history of the site.  Sign up here for as low as $9.99 per month!

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 at via PayPal by sending a payment 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.

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 look at next week’s big shows, including a preview of  CMLL’s main event, why L.A. Park is already gone from the promotion, and a preview of  both Raw and Night of Champions.

We’ve got more on the Jimmy Snuka case, with a background of WWE in 1983, Vince McMahon purchasing the company from his father, what was and wasn’t known in wrestling at the time, the first Snuka arrest, the decision made on Hulk Hogan being the face of the company’s expansion, the role Snuka’s autobiography played in his indictment, the corner saying why he felt there was no indictment and his quotes on the subject, new evidence, Buddy Rogers before his death talks about the subject, another coroner weighs in, a lawyer who investigated the case in 1983 weighs in, how Snuka handled his finances fro that point on, Snuka’s run in New Japan, the famous Brody & Snuka walking out on the tag tournament finals, what Vince McMahon was doing to protect Snuka, key Allentown officials talk cover-up rumors, WWE talks those rumors and more.

We also update the Kurt Angle TNA situation and why Angle said he was leaving the company when his contract expires in January.  We look at the situation with Destination America, what talent knows and how WWE fits into all this right now.

We look at the letter sent by UFC to all of its fighters regarding unionization and our thoughts on the subject.

We’ve got a look at the 2005 Hall of Fame ballot, a look at the new candidates and their credentials, candidates for the future, understanding of the process, as well as how everyone on this year’s ballot fared last year.

We also look back at research into the biggest draws of all-time on the ballot, as well how the candidates have done in various awards, in drawing power for their era, as well as match quality, how difficult it is to be voted in, and notes on a lot of this year’s modern candidates.

We have an update on Ronda Rousey and WrestleMania, an upcoming WWE wedding, John Cena injury notes, WWE asks fans about PPV start times and thoughts, update on Amanda from Tough Enough and what appears to be her new deal, WWE pulling out all stops for next months tour of Mexico and why, Dean Ambrose talks acting, Nikki Bella as Divas champion, Eric Bischoff appearing on WWE Network, Undertaker’s future, the signing of Kana and she talks coming to WWE, Zahra Schreiber talks her firing, some NXT matches, a WWE wrestler on a sabbatical, as well as the WWE business notes from the past week and highlights from all the house hows.

We look at Saturday’s UFC show, the business notes on the show, where the top guys go next along with match-by-match coverage, how much everyone earned, and poll results on the show.

We also have rundowns of the major TV shows of the past week.

We also go in depth on the Battle of Los Angeles tournament with match-by-match coverage for all three nights, what is PWG, the atmosphere and more.

We also have notes on the ratings of all the major television shows, including just how badly the main shows fared, and results of the major league arena events over the past week.

We also look at the affect that Dr. Wagner Jr. and L.A. Park have on business in Mexico, what dream of L.A. Park fell through, Rey Mysterio in AAA and notes on several big shows plus names they are talking about bringing in.

We also update the Dragon Gate tag team tournament and the NOAH Jr. tag team tournament.  We also look at New Japan’s next international tour, why Tenryu vs. Okada is taking place in November, what foreign stars are being discussed for New Japan, and Hiroshi Tanahashi doing the DDT show and the future of Yohei Komatsu and Sho Tanaka.

We also look at Hulk Hogan’s overseas talk shows, the death of Tommy Rogers of The Fantastics, Dave Brown retires from WMC TV and how it was celebrated locally, Axl Rotten’s future goals, CHIKARA King of Trios, Jeff Jarrett TV talks and the final GFW ballpark shows of the year and what is left on the schedule, Bob Backlund’s autobiography, update on Batista, the death of Jerry Prater, an instrumental figure in Florida wrestling in the 70s and the heyday of wrestling programs and magazines, the Carlos Maynez tribute show this past week featuring legends from the past, a Roddy Piper movie not released and the Darrell Dawkins connection with pro wrestling.

We also update things on Lucha Underground.

We look at next week’s ROH matches.

We look at a TNA wedding, lineups for the upcoming TNA shows, U.K. TNA ratings and updating Impact.

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.

New subscribers ordering 24 or 40 issues have to let us know what major stories of the past 11 years you are most interested in and we’ll send the issue with the best coverage of that story. We’ve got coverage of every major PPV event and world wide spectacular, every major star switching promotions, histories of companies like FMW, Rings and New Japan, retirement and obit issues of every major star who fits into those descriptions over the past 11 years, as well as our biggest issue every year, the annual awards issue, and our most controversial issue of every year, the Hall of Fame issue.

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

THURSDAY’S NEWS UPDATE

• This is up early and we will likely have another update up tonight.
• USADA filed a response to Thomas Hauser’s article
• Congrats to Dwayne Johnson and girlfriend Lauren Hashian, who are expecting their first child together
• Combate Americas, an MMA promotion aimed at the Hispanic market, debuts tonight on NBC Universo at 11 p.m. Eastern time, with Alberto Del Rio as announcer.  Both Konnan and Rey Mysterio are also supposed to be part of the show.  
• This past weekend was the single most watched opening weekend in NFL history.
• Vitor Belfort accused Chris Weidman of stopping cycling because his testosterone level was somewhat low in their fight in May in an MMA Fighting article by Guilherme Cruz.  This was in response to Belfort’s test levels being right at the top level of acceptable even though he had a history of TRT use which would be because his body wasn’t producing enough testosterone in theory.  Belfort said that everyone was cycling testosterone but he was the only one honest about it, and even with the high reading, he has a deficiency and doesn’t have a normal social life.  As far as why he still had such a high level with this deficiency, he said, “I won’t reveal my secret, and my doctor’s secret, but we have been using natural things to meet this demand.”
• TNA was just canceled today by DMAX which covers Germany and Austria.
• Tommy Dreamer was at WWE Studios this past week, likely filming interviews.  Amy Dumas was back at the Performance Center.
• There will be a South Jersey Wrestle Fest on 10/11 in Woodbury Heights, NJ at the Community Center at 3 p.m. with a live show at 6 p.m.  Among those appearing are The Sandman, Justin Credible, Raven and New Jack.
• New England Championship Wrestling from Saturday night in Everett, MA:  Mike Garcia b Kris Pyro, Jacob b Foxx Vinyer, The Glamour Express b Heavy Hitters, Juvenile X b Fahrenheit, Mistress Belmont NC Alexxis Nevaeah, Beau Crockett b Dan Terry, Todeo Loco b Scott Levesque, Jack Maverick & Chris Escobar b Genesis & Damien Wayne, Mike McCarthy b Slyck Wagner Brown to win the NECW title.  Next show is 10/10 in Hampstead, NH at the Phan Zone with McCarthy vs. Escobar.
• New England Championship Wrestling will return to broadcast TV on COZI-TV in Boston and MeTV in New York.  There will also be an all woman’s show on 11/22 in Beverly, MA at the Cove Community Center.
• CWE on 9/30 in Virden, Manitoba at the Royal Canadian Legion.
• ECWA on 9/19 in Woodbury Heights, NJ at the Community Center.
• Ultra Wrestle from Saturday night in Laurens, SC:  Joe Harrison b Caleb Crocker, Mason Mayles b Erik Thompson, Myles b Noah Young, Anthony Jannazzo b Jeff Connelly, Brice Anthony & Boomer Payne b TK Stark & Jett Black, Deon Johnson & Cruizer Lewis b Laurens County Sheriff Ricky Chastain & Josh Powers-DQ (thanks to Thomas Simpson)’
• Maryland Championship Wrestling Saturday night in Hollywood, MD at the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department has Mickie James and Jake Roberts appearing.  They will be at a Meet and Greet at 6:30 p.m.  James will also wrestle Kimber Lee on the card.
• Pro Wrestling Eclipse on 10/4 in Oshawa, ONT at the Oshawa Legion with The Flatliners and Ethan Page.
• Future Stars of Wrestling on 9/25 at the Silverton Casino in Las Vegas with Brian Cage defending the FSW title against Kevin Kross.  Paul London and Willie Mack also appear.
• There is a Fight Night card tomorrow night at Center Stage in Atlanta at 8 p.m.
• Mecca Pro Wrestling on 9/26 in Kingston, ONT at Legion 560.
• Live Pro Wrestling on 10/24 in Renfrew, ONT at RCAF 433 Wing.
• North Shore Wrestling on 9/12 in Quebec City:  Tony Tremblay b Super Astro, Giovanni b Domino Jonathan, Alextreme & James Stone b Marty Boston & Mike Bedrich, Surfer Mitch won over Brad Alekxis, Branden O’Connor, Leon Saver, Liam Letto and Matt Novak, Scott Parker & Shane Matthews b Idriss & Oliver Strange, Midianne & Stafeny Sinclair b Angie Skye & Jessika Black, Shayne Hawke b Michael Style, Johnny Gargano b Excess, Dru Onyx & Judas & Pee We & Travis Toxic b Alex Price & Ivan Sullivan & Marko Estrada & Razen. (thanks to Steven Ashe)
• Classic Championship Wrestling on 10/24 in Chatham, ONT at the WISH Centre headlined by Cody Deaner vs. Derek Wylde.
• Ricky Steamboat will be appearing on the NWA Smoky Mountain show on 10/17 in Elizabethton, TN at the High School, which will have two Hall of Famers with Ricky Morton also appearing.  Steamboat will be in Morton’s corner as he faces former protege Kid Kash.
• Marvelous Puroresu USA at the BPO Elks Lodge in Queensboro #878 in Elmhurst, NY with Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Sumie Sakai vs. Patrick Clark (Tough Enough) & Kimber Lee, Amazing Red vs. Lio Rush plus Chigusa Nagayo will be singing songs from the 80s, as well as Veda Scott, Cheeseburger and D.J. Hyde.  While Nagoya did have some major hits, she really isn’t that good of a singer.
• Premier Wrestling Federation’s 7th annual Legacy Cup which includes Steve Corino and C.W. Anderson tapes place at Hubert, NC at the Hashimoto Hall, which is named after Shinya Hashimoto.
• Premier Wrestling presents Premier X on Saturday at Del Mar High School in San Jose at 6 p.m. headlined by JR Kratos vs. Jeff Cobb for the championship plus Timothy Thatcher, Dylan Drake and others appear.

ON THIS DAY IN PRO WRESTLING HISTORY INTERNATIONAL (thanks to Graeme Cameron)

1987 – Kendo Nagasaki beat Wayne Bridges in Bradford to win the ASP heavyweight title and Fit Finlay beat Chic Cullen to win the British heavy middleweight title

2000 – Kaoru beat Manami Toyota to win the WWWA title and Miho Wakizawa beat Nanae Takahashi to win the Japanese title

2000 – Gedo & Jado & Kaori Nakayama (woman wrestler) beat Kodo Fuyuki & Mr Gannosuke & Shinsuku-zame in Tokyo to win the WEW six-man titles

2006 – Averno beat Negro Casas in Mexico City to win the CMLL welterweight title

2009- -Shingo Takagi & Yamato beat Genki Horiguchi & Ryo Saito in Tokyo to win the Open the Twin Gate titles

by David Bixenspan | davidbix@wrestlingobserver.com | Follow @davidbix

Show notes for tonight:

UFC Tonight airs at 7:00 p.m. ET on Fox Sports 1.

NXT at 8:00 p.m. ET on WWE Network has Tye Dillinger vs. Martin Stone, Apollo Crews vs. Solomon Crowe, Johnny Gargano & Tommaso Ciampa vs. Baron Corbin & Rhyno in the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic, and Bayley vs. Mary Dobson.

A rerun of the two hour season premiere of The Ultimate Fighter airs at 8:00 p.m. ET on Fox Sports 1 with the elimination fights to get into the house.

Impact Wrestling at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on Destination America features the TNA vs. GFW Lethal Lockdown match for control of TNA.

The Ultimate Fighter at 10:00 p.m. ET on Fox Sports 1 is titled “Crowded House.” The fighters move in and Dana Whites adds a twist to the competition. From the promos, this appears to be something along th lines of each eoach picking a fighter who lost in his elimination fight to add to the team.

ROH at 11:00 p.m. ET on Destination America has redrawn vs. Donovan Dijak and J Diesel, Dalton Castle vs. Cedric Alexander, and War Machine vs. The Kingdom.

Please send reports from major shows, recommended links, etc. to newstips@wrestlingobserver.com:

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Figure Four Weekly:

The newest issue of Figure Four Weekly is now up for subscribers (subscribe to the site here and get access to Figure Four, the Observer, tons of audio, and more) featuring a look at the latest in the concussion lawsuits filed against WWE on behalf of various wrestlers by Konstantine Kyros. On top of that, we have all the usual stuff like Vinny’s reviews and international news from Dr. Lucha Steve Sims and and Alan”4L” Counihan.

The recnt FREE Figure Four Weekly is still up with a look at the crazy story of why Gawker thinks the FBI may have helped Hulk Hogan cover up his racist and homophobic comments. A judge has ordered the FBI to turn over the records of their investigation, and what Gawker is saying in court about what has and hasn’t been turned over paints a very interesting picture.

Also, now available for the first time on Kindle (meaning Kindle devices and anything with the Kindle app) is Fall Guys, the seminal 1937 book that has been described as being like the 1930s version of the Wrestling Observer. It was surprisingly not on Kindle already, so we put together a nice version with a full table of contents w/ chapter marks, proper formatting on everything, etc. Right now it’s available from the American, Canadian, and Australian Amazon/Kindle stores OR you can also buy it from anywhere in the world on PayHip, who will provide you with both Kindle and ePub (every other e-reader) format files, and you can either sideload them to your device or have them email it to your Kindle.

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Wrestling Observer Newsletter:

A look at next weekend, which is one of the biggest weekends of the year with Bellator and CMLL having their biggest shows, plus a WWE PPV show and an ROH PPV, is one of the lead stories in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.  We also have a look at the 2015 Hall of Fame ballot, tons more on the Jimmy Snuka case, An update on TNA and the future of Kurt Angle, a letter UFC sent to all its fighters about unionization, plus full coverage of UFC 191 and Battle of Los Angeles, and thoughts behind Raw & Smackdown doing record low numbers.

The latest issue of the Wrestling Observer: September 14, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Huge Weekend Preview, WWE/CMLL/ROH/Bellator

Web site subscriptions, which include access to both current and older newsletters as well as every audio show in the history of the site.  Sign up here for as low as $9.99 per month!

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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 look at next week’s big shows, including a preview of  CMLL’s main event, why L.A. Park is already gone from the promotion, and a preview of  both Raw and Night of Champions.

We’ve got more on the Jimmy Snuka case, with a background of WWE in 1983, Vince McMahon purchasing the company from his father, what was and wasn’t known in wrestling at the time, the first Snuka arrest, the decision made on Hulk Hogan being the face of the company’s expansion, the role Snuka’s autobiography played in his indictment, the corner saying why he felt there was no indictment and his quotes on the subject, new evidence, Buddy Rogers before his death talks about the subject, another coroner weighs in, a lawyer who investigated the case in 1983 weighs in, how Snuka handled his finances fro that point on, Snuka’s run in New Japan, the famous Brody & Snuka walking out on the tag tournament finals, what Vince McMahon was doing to protect Snuka, key Allentown officials talk cover-up rumors, WWE talks those rumors and more.

We also update the Kurt Angle TNA situation and why Angle said he was leaving the company when his contract expires in January.  We look at the situation with Destination America, what talent knows and how WWE fits into all this right now.

We look at the letter sent by UFC to all of its fighters regarding unionization and our thoughts on the subject.

We’ve got a look at the 2005 Hall of Fame ballot, a look at the new candidates and their credentials, candidates for the future, understanding of the process, as well as how everyone on this year’s ballot fared last year.

We also look back at research into the biggest draws of all-time on the ballot, as well how the candidates have done in various awards, in drawing power for their era, as well as match quality, how difficult it is to be voted in, and notes on a lot of this year’s modern candidates.

We have an update on Ronda Rousey and WrestleMania, an upcoming WWE wedding, John Cena injury notes, WWE asks fans about PPV start times and thoughts, update on Amanda from Tough Enough and what appears to be her new deal, WWE pulling out all stops for next months tour of Mexico and why, Dean Ambrose talks acting, Nikki Bella as Divas champion, Eric Bischoff appearing on WWE Network, Undertaker’s future, the signing of Kana and she talks coming to WWE, Zahra Schreiber talks her firing, some NXT matches, a WWE wrestler on a sabbatical, as well as the WWE business notes from the past week and highlights from all the house hows.

We also look at Hulk Hogan’s overseas talk shows, the death of Tommy Rogers of The Fantastics, Dave Brown retires from WMC TV and how it was celebrated locally, Axl Rotten’s future goals, CHIKARA King of Trios, Jeff Jarrett TV talks and the final GFW ballpark shows of the year and what is left on the schedule, Bob Backlund’s autobiography, update on Batista, the death of Jerry Prater, an instrumental figure in Florida wrestling in the 70s and the heyday of wrestling programs and magazines, the Carlos Maynez tribute show this past week featuring legends from the past, a Roddy Piper movie not released and the Darrell Dawkins connection with pro wrestling.

We also update things on Lucha Underground.

We look at next week’s ROH matches.

We look at a TNA wedding, lineups for the upcoming TNA shows, U.K. TNA ratings and updating Impact.

We also have Conor McGregor talking his future, McGregor vs. Faber and why it didn’t happen, key UFC announcements over the pat week including new shows, new main events and new title matches, the retirement of Sam Stout, Rousey doing “Road House,” next UFC TV events, update on Charles Oliveira, UFC’s most popular markets, how much Rousey and McGregor are carrying things right now and former UFC star buys $2.75 million mansion from a rock star.

We also look at Alexander Shlemenko’s attempt to get his steroid punishment over turned and his arguments, plus a new Bellator show was announced.

We also update Fedor Emelianenko and his situation, as well as a former WWE star debuts this week as an MMA announcer and top pro wrestling stars attending.  We also look at the results of the latest medical study on injuries suffered in boxing vs. MMA and where each is more and less dangerous than the other.  

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.

New subscribers ordering 24 or 40 issues have to let us know what major stories of the past 11 years you are most interested in and we’ll send the issue with the best coverage of that story. We’ve got coverage of every major PPV event and world wide spectacular, every major star switching promotions, histories of companies like FMW, Rings and New Japan, retirement and obit issues of every major star who fits into those descriptions over the past 11 years, as well as our biggest issue every year, the annual awards issue, and our most controversial issue of every year, the Hall of Fame issue.

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

***

Wednesday Daily Update

— The big news of the day is Dixie Carter telling Sports Illustrated that TNA is, as of right now, done with Destination America after the end of the year. The article actually has another passage that says they’re done as of February, and we’re waiting to hear back as to what it’s actually supposed to say. Regardless, it looks like Destination America is doing exactly what Spike did last year, which is give TNA some extra time to find a new network.

— Fpr the first time I can remember, a major New York media outlet, in this case WNBC TV, did a story on how the law banning professional MMA in the state left a loophole allowing unregulated amateur MMA. Chris Weidman and Dr. Sherry Wulkan (of the New Jersey commission) were used as the primary MMA-friendly voices in the piece. State Assemblywoman Deborah Glick represented the other side:”Just because New Jersey has been stupid enough to authorize this, as have many other states, does that mean you have to?” Disgraced  former Assembly Speaker Shelly Silver said he was surprised that people are paying to se amateur MMA in NY, but said he was willing to introduce a law to ban or heavily regulate to amateur fights. They even went to a show with pro wrestling and MMA on the same card side by side to point out that the commission only had jurisdiction over the pro wrestling. Very well done story, well worth checking out.

— Last night’s Total Divas drew 804,000 viewers, way down from last week’s 1.143 million even with Paige’s boyfriend proposing.

— Video of Ronda Rousey blasting the Nevada State Athletic Commission at the UFC 193 press conference today is on YouTube via Submission Radio’s channel.

— News from Kris Zellner’s Lucha Report (full, illustrated verson here):

EMLL officially announced yesterday that their talent can no longer work shows that Dr. Wagner Jr. & L.A. Park are booked on as they have been vetoed from the promotion permanently. The promotion basically is making the indie promoters choose one or the other and CaraLucha & Lucha Libre Boom have chosen Park & Wagner at least for their 9/16 & 9/19 shows respectively. There are other promoters that are still trying to decide so we will see what happens as the days go on.

Tomorrow is a huge day in Mexico as it is Dia de la Independencia (Mexican Independence Day) and there are boatloads of shows taking place including the usual Tuesday night Arena Mexico show,

— Bob Backlund’s book was officially released yesterday in both physical and digital formats. WWE’s next home video release is SummerSlam 2015, which comes out on DVD and Blu-Ray this Tuesday. WWE’s next archival release is Sting: Into The Light on DVD and Blu-Ray four weeks from yesterday.

— Dave has an article at MMAFighting about Metamoris booking Josh Barnett vs. Chael Sonnen.

— Devon Nicholson’s Hannibal TV has new interviews with Frenchy Martin about Hulk Hogan and Dino Bravo.

— Debbie Combs vs. Prissie Purcell is today’s new match for NWAClassics.com subscribers.

— Future Stars of Wrestling returns to the Silverton Casino in Las Vegas, Fri Sept 25th for Paid in Full.  FSW Champion Brian Cage defends against Kevin Kross, Tag Team Champs Reno Scum take on The Pistoleros, along with former WWE Tag Team Champion Paul London, teaming with No Limits Champ Jakob Austin Young vs Brandon Gatson and Ryan Taylor.  Also see Lucha Underground’s Willie Mack and more. More details here.

YouTube interview: https://youtu.be/ekBi_8Fizt4

Blog Talk Radio Episode: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ringrustradio/2015/09/15/ring-rust-radio–sep-15-w-wwe-legend-bob-backlund-night-of-champions-preview

BOB BACKLUND Transcript

Donald Wood: You recently released your autobiography BACKLUND: From All-American Boy to Professional Wrestling’s World Champion. The book is a great mixture of your life growing up, your career in the ring and your personal philosophies. Why did you feel like now was the right time to release the book and what are you hoping to accomplish?

Bob Backlund: I have been working on this project ever since I stopped wrestling. I actually didn’t think anything was going to happen with it. I was turning 60 years old and didn’t think I was going to find the right person to write the book. Somebody wrote me a letter back in 2009, he said I was his childhood hero and his name was Rob Miller. He wanted to write a book about me. When we met in Glastonbury, CT in a library to discuss the book, I found out he was the man I wanted to write the book. He had a lot of compassion for the business and he respected the things I went through. He wanted to meet with me to see if I was really that person he was idolizing when he was a boy. He saw there wasn’t much difference between what I was doing in the WWE at that time and my real life. We have been working on it for five years and now the story of my life is in a book and I am very proud of it. I am very excited and every day I am enthusiastic to get out there in the world and meet more kids and meet more parents. Our goal is to have mom and dad want to have their children read the book. 

Mike Chiari: The professional wrestling landscape changed significantly when Vince McMahon took over WWF from his father and launched a national and global expansion. You were front and center when that transition takes place, so looking back, what are some of the positives that came from the change, and also what are some of the things that were better in WWF and wrestling in general prior to that transition?

Bob Backlund: The business changed completely back then.  One of the bigger things was when they brought the pay-per-view into the picture.  That was very lucrative to the Company and the wrestlers.  If you wrestled in the Spectrum that holds about 19 thousand people.  With PPV that gave you the opportunity to get a 1,000,000 more people watching and that really changed the income of the wrestlers and promotion tremendously.

Brandon Galvin: Mike and I were there at Madison Square Garden to see you inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame and I was curious what you felt was the most memorable moment for you from that weekend.

Bob Backlund: I was so excited to be inducted into the Hall of Fame because they had asked me to go in before but I wouldn’t do it because of something they did to me negatively back in the 80’s.  They did fix that problem now so I went in.  I thought they never were going to fix it as I was coming up on my 60’s and thought I would be gone by the time they do but they did fix it.  There was a lot of things that happened that were tiny miracles at the time thankfully.  I was really psyched up to give my speech, I was excited to be there, and it was a wonderful day for me.

Donald Wood: One of the interesting notes from your book was that Roddy Piper wrote the foreword. With the news about his untimely passing, what was your relationship like with Piper and what does his involvement with the book mean to you now?

Bob Backlund: I met Mr. Piper when he was a young person getting in the business in the Olympic theater in Los Angeles.  He was just starting and I had the championship for a while.  I was over in Japan and they had asked me to go over and have a match with Roddy for 59 minutes and 30 seconds.  He says some great things about the match and my goal was to put him over and make him look like a champion.  It was a pleasure to wrestle with him and he was very advanced for how little time he had in the business.  He credits me for helping him launch his career in the business and I was really proud of him to say that.  He left a message on my phone about three weeks ago saying it was ok to use him as the forward for the book.  I listened to the message, the next day I deleted it, and the next day he passed.  I liked him a lot and had a lot of respect for him.  I thought he would never leave this earth.

Mike Chiari: You’re one of the longest-reigning WWF world champions of all time, and your reign famously came to an end when you lost to The Iron Sheik. It’s long been said that the original plan was for you to turn heel and drop the title to Hulk Hogan. What do you remember about the plans regarding your title loss, and why were you reluctant to change your persona then?

Bob Backlund: This is explained pretty well in the book, but I had a daughter that was six years old about to start school.  I went around the country talking about amateur wrestlers, hosting Bob Backlund kids wrestling tournaments, and I always talked to them about things I wouldn’t do.  I wouldn’t turn because I made a lot of promises to a lot of kids and with my daughter starting school I didn’t want her to have problems in school.

Brandon Galvin: What do you feel has been the most rewarding part of your wrestling career?

Bob Backlund: I think the biggest thing for me was to find out that Vince McMahon Senior had more honor, dignity, pride, and honesty than any other man I have ever met.  He was like a dad to me.  He told me some things way ahead of time and he did those things right on time and right on the money.  He was a wonderful person and I was very saddened when he passed in 1984.

Donald Wood: During your career, you wrestled against some of the greatest Superstars in history. Of all your legendary matches and feuds, who do you view as your favorite opponent and which wrestler had the biggest impact on your career?

Bob Backlund: Billy Superstar Graham dropped the WWF title to me, and that had the biggest influence because it changed my life.  I know he actually didn’t want to do that, and in the book I explain that a lot.  A lot of people were trying to talk Vince McMahon Sr. out of doing that with me because I was new and I wasn’t a proven commodity yet.  Vince McMahan gave his word and he stuck with it.  I loved wrestling.  I couldn’t wait to get in the arena and get in the ring.  I love the arena and I love the people.  I didn’t love the dressing room and I didn’t care for the activity in the dressing room back then.  I’d go in there, get dressed, and go out and do the Harvard step test and the wheel for an hour.  I enjoyed the time in the ring because I was trying to entertain people and give them a show for their hard earned money they spent to come to the show.  I worked as hard as I could in the ring to make the matches enjoyable as much as I could.

Mike Chiari: I think one of the most entertaining and underrated runs of your career was your stint as a heel when you won the world title from Bret Hart. Who came up with the idea for that character and why were you willing to make such a significant change at that point in your career?

Bob Backlund: I didn’t do that in that 80’s because I refused to be bad.  In the 90’s I went back and our world had changed a lot.  People weren’t interested in all-American boy hero.  They were more interested in people that would disrespect their boss.  I asked to be bad, but I was being bad by being good.  I built up a luminous vocabulary so I could educate the masses. I was preaching being responsible for your own actions.  Don’t throw your garbage out the window of your car anymore because you’re defacing our country.  I had a policy that you had to recite the presidents of the USA to me before you could get my signature.  They hated me for that.  That is what was driving me to be so intense.  They all thought I was going to fall on my face, but I believe in every word that came out of my mouth and sometimes the truth hurts.

Donald Wood: In that sense, do you feel the comparisons to John Cena are justified?

Bob Backlund: There probably is a little bit because he talks about never giving up and I talk about never capitulating so they are basically the same thing.  I understand that, sometimes people don’t want to hear about discipline, hard work, and going the extra mile.

Brandon Galvin: Is there a story you could share with us from your book to serve as an appetizer before fans have a chance to read it?

Bob Backlund: In 1973, I was ready to go to an engagement for a match I had in Baton Rouge, LA.  I had a 1967 Chevy Impala that was green and had an aluminous trunk it.  I had that and $20 in my pocket when I left Princeton, MN.  My parents gave me a hug goodbye and told me to do my best.  When I got to Baton Rouge, I had .29 cents in my pocket for the night I wrestled.  I made a reservation at the Sheraton that night.  After my match I was paid with an envelope, and when I opened it there was $5 in there.  I had to go five days before I was going to have another match.  I cancelled the reservation at the Sheraton, and I went to the grocery store and bought tuna fish and a can opener.  That can opener became the most important tool in those days.  I actually slept in the trunk of my car since it had that aluminous trunk.  I was broke, homeless, and didn’t know a soul in the area.  I was about 1200 miles away from home and couldn’t get there.  So I went to the local YMCA and worked out every day.  It made me get through the hard times of sleeping in my trunk, being hungry, and being lonely.  When I got done working out, I felt good again, I felt positive, and it kept me alive and motivated.  I was able to slowly climb to the top of the wrestling business thanks to the principles I learned in junior high and high school.  From that point, everything was up hill and couldn’t get any worse, but I never gave up.

—

Thanks,
Donald Wood Jr.

News Writer – TravelPulse.com

WWE Team – Bleacher Report

Ring Rust Radio

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