Category: News

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!

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.

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

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.

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

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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 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.

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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