His team reached a deal with the Court Bauer-run MLWRadio.com to launch “The Ric Flair Show”, released every Wednesday on their website, iTunes, and Stitcher. In a sense, Flair will replace Konnan on MLW Radio as he had left for a slot on Podcast One’s new Chris Jericho programmed ‘network’.
Flair’s previous show (“WOOOOOO! Nation” on CBS Radio’s PlayIt) with host Conrad Thompson went on hiatus after Flair’s contract expired and his side decided not to renew.
Flair, 67, is currently not being used on television by WWE after a storyline breakup with daughter Charlotte, the women’s champion.
MLW currently has podcasts hosted by Bauer, Jim Cornette, friend of the site Matt Farmer, Kevin Sullivan, and more.
Pretty quiet week leading to a monster week next week with three UFC events in three days including UFC 200. We’ll be doing one weekend poll which is for the New Japan show in Iwate on late Saturday night/Sunday morning with thumbs up, down or middle and best and worst match to dave@wrestlingobsever.com
No WWE shows tonight.
NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING RETURNS AT 8 P.M. EASTERN TIME ON AXS TV
Kushida vs. Ricochet for IWGP Jr. title
Young Bucks vs. Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly for IWGP jr. tag title
Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Shinsuke Nakamura in G-1 Climax final
This is another two-hour show featuring the match that finished second in the 2015 Match of the Year balloting as the main event. This was all taped at last year’s final night of the G-1 in Sumo Hall in Tokyo.
CMLL IPPV AT WWW.CLEENG.COM FROM ARENA MEXICO AT 9:30 P.M. EASTERN TIME
Blue Panther & Blue Panther Jr. & The Panther vs. Felino & Puma & Tiger
Atlantis & Mistico & Stuka Jr. vs. Euforia & Mr. Niebla & El Terrible
Rey Cometa vs. Cavernario hair vs. hair
16-man One Night World Grand Prix tournament:
Diamante Azul, La Mascara, Maximo Sexy (CMLL world heavyweight champion), Rey Escorpion, Rush, Shocker, Ultimo Guerrero, Volador Jr., Johnny Idol, Kushida (IWGP jr champion), Michael Elgin (IWGP IC champion), Marco Corleone, Okumura Sam Adonis, Tama Tonga and Tanga Roa.
LEGACY FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS AT 10 P.M. TONIGHT ON AXS TV FROM DIAMOND JACK’S CASINO IN BOSSIER CITY, LA
Bi Nguyen (0-0, 106.5) vs. Andy Nguyen (2-2, 107.7)
Dan Ige (3-1, 146) vs. Craig Campbell (2-1, 146.1)
Joe Valdez (3-1, 156.3) vs. David Bosnick (6-3, 155.8)
Charles Byrd (7-4, 186.1) vs. Quentin Henry (10-3, 185.8)
David Burrow (14-7, 170.1) vs. Derrick Krantz (17-9, 170.8)
Tony Kelly (5-0, 143.4) vs. Kevin Aguilar (10-1, 14.3) for the featherweight title
Saturday has WWE in Tokyo Sumo Hall:
Asuka vs. Becky Lynch for NXT women’s title
Titus O’Neil vs Curtis Axel
Dolph Ziggler vs. Baron Corbin
Charlotte vs. Natalya for WWE women’s title
Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Kevin Owens
Usos vs. Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson
New Day vs. Vaudevillains for tag titles
John Cena vs. A.J. Styles
Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins vs. Chris Jericho for WWE title
Saturday also has a WWE house show in Pikeville, KY (Kane, Big Show, The Miz, Sheamus, Sami Zayn, Rusev, Cesaro, Enzo, Cass, Dudleys, Kalisto, Sasha Banks). We’re looking for reports on the show at dave@wrestlingobsever.com
NEW JAPAN FROM IWATE ON NEW JAPAN WORLD AT 3 A.M. LATE SATURDAY NIGHT EASTERN AND MIDNIGHT PACIFIC TIME
Yoshitatsu & Captain New Japan vs. Yujiro Takahashi & Hangman Page
Yuji Nagata & Manabu Nakanishi vs. Togi Makabe & Juice Robinson
Kenny Omega & Young Bucks vs. Satoshi Kojima & Ricochet & Matt Sydal for Never six man titles
Kazuchika Okada & Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi & Will Ospreay vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Seiya Sanada & Bushi in an elimination match
Katsuyori Shibata vs. Tomoaki Honma for Never Open weight title
Sunday has Raw in Huntington, WV (Kane, Big Show, The Miz, Sheamus, Sami Zayn, Rusev, Cesaro, Enzo, Cass, Dudleys, Kalisto, Sasha Banks).
Raw will be Monday night from Columbus, OH. Give that Raw is on July 4th, it is likely to be the lowest rating for a Raw show in the history of the show. Rusev vs. Titus O’Neil for the U.S. title has been announced. Shane McMahon is scheduled to return.
Smackdown is Tuesday night in Toledo. No John Cena or Seth Rollins advertised. Dean Ambrose, A.J. Styles and Kevin Owens are the top names advertised.
The 10th annual Wrestling Observer/F4W convention in Las Vegas takes place during UFC’s International Fight Week from July 7 – 11. Ed in San Antonio has information on Facebook, or you can email him at F4Wfan@hotmail.com. It’s always a fun time, so hurry up and make your plans to join Dave Meltzer, Bryan Alvarez, Vinny, Granny, Ed, Peach, Dez, Dr. Lucha, Rodney, Sr. Jaialai, “Filthy” Tom, and the rest of the group in beautiful Las Vegas this July. Plus… some extra secret surprises.
If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today!
It’s a double issue week featuring a look back 40 years at what was the biggest undertaking up to that point in pro wrestling history, and Inoki vs. Ali match, how it came together, what happened that night, coverage of the upcoming G-1 Climax tournament, coverage of Ultima Lucha 3 and details on where the company stands, full coverage of the WWE cruiserweight classic, ROH Best in the World coverage as well as a look at those coming and going from the promotion, the death of Ryan Jimmo, the life and times of Gypsy Joe, and far more about the fallout of the Roman Reigns suspension.
The lead story details this years G-1 tournament including what will air in English, newcomers to the tournament, some interesting political news regarding who is and isn’t in it, as well as a complete lineup for every show.
This issue looks at the background of Ali vs. Inoki, the first time boxer vs. wrestler with major stars came close to happening, boxing champions who did wrestling and wrestlers who faced boxers including involving one of the all-time greats, Thesz vs. Marciano talk, and the two best known mixed matches prior to Ali vs. Inoki in the U.S.
There is also a look at Japanese pro wrestling in the 70s and how that led to the match, the business of Billy Robinson involving Inoki vs. Baba, how Inoki was being marketed, and the attempts to put together Ali vs. Bruno Sammartino and how that led to this.
The goals of Ali vs. Inoki for the New Japan side, the pro wrestling angles, just how big the match was why the match wasn’t a work, where Ali’s career stood at the time, media coverage, how the terrible rules were the reason the fight, Sammartino’s broken neck and return, Stan Hansen becoming a superstar in Japan, and why Ali vs. Inoki was not a success in much of the U.S, and much more in this issue of the Wrestling Observer.
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.
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.
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Wrestling Observer Newsletter BACK ISSUE
READ IT HERE: May 24, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: ECW Hardcore Heaven/WWF No Mercy – Amidst rumors flying everywhere of the possible demise of the company and others who are talking that the company is a short period away from growing bigger than ever, the ECW Hardcore Heaven PPV came off like a show that was a bridge for the company to something new, but when it was over, there were still no answers over whether what is new is good news or bad news… Current subscribers click here to continue reading.
FRIDAY NEWS UPDATE
Jerry Lawler was reinstated by WWEas soon as charges were dropped in his domestic violence case. He is expected to return on the Tuesday tapings in Toledo.
Ric Flair and co-host Conrad Thompson return to podcasting this week as part of MLWRadio.com starting on Wednesday. The show had gone on a hiatus after their prior contract with contract with CBS Radio Play It.
At a court hearing earlier this week, it was ruled that Armando Montalvo was competent to stand trial. Montalvo was the man shot in front of the WWE Performance Center in Orlando who had been harassing people at times and was all messed up in love with Lita at the time. His family stated he suffered from bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses. A pretrial hearing is set for 8/31.
Judge Vanessa Bryant ruled that Christopher Nowinski will not have to be deposed in the lawsuits by Vito LoGrasso and Evan Singleton against WWE regarding concussions. Bryant ruled she couldn’t find any reason where Nowinski would have knowledge that would be revelant to the case.
The Stardom promotion in Japan will be streaming all of their shows live going forward on the new Stardom World streaming service which costs 750 yen ($7.29) per month. To sign up: http://www.stardom-world.com/
WWE
The WWE Network has uploaded 80 new episodes of Nitro meaning every episode of now up.
Adam Rose talks what went wrong with is character on the main roster on the Pancakes and Powerslam Radio show:
“I did a commercial, and once I did the commercial, I realized that we were going down the wrong path,” said Rose. “I think on the main stage, it needed to be introduced as a heel, because it was so quirky and so different. I think if it was introduced as a heel, then people wouldn’t have felt forced to love it, and then I felt that they would have naturally fell in love with certain parts of the quirkiness, and it would have naturally evolved to something or someone who people liked. I think that was a big mistake.” Rose adds, “I think one of the hardest things to do in this industry is to get over as a babyface. Some people have a natural connection with the audience. [Someone] like Sami Zayn has a natural connection with the audience. I don’t think Adam Rose had any with the audience because he was completely quirky and over-the-top and ridiculous. And I think that’s why it would have been better introduced as a heel because your automatic reaction to seeing someone like that is not to like it.”
At the conclusion of Adam Rose’s WWE career, he was placed in a misfit group named the Social Outcasts, along with Curtis Axel, Bo Dallas, and Heath Slater. Rose admits that he had no idea about the group until he was given the idea only a few hours before the show started.
“We had no idea,” said Rose. “I think we were told about 5 o’clock on a Monday night that we were now going to be a group. I think we were four guys who the company saw had something, but we were doing nothing. So I think the idea was like, okay, let’s put them together collectively in a group, and these are guys who don’t know each other really well. I think the awkwardness of it was actually one of the reasons [why it worked]. You get all these well-polished teams, and the idea was for the faction to not be well-polished, and the idea was for us not to get along, to almost be bumping heads and trying to one-up each other the whole time. I think the Social Outcasts has talented individuals in it. I don’t think the Social Outcasts is going to be a deal loss; I think it is going to be, given the right structure, could take off. But, it’s all a matter of where you put it.
Tammy Sytch is scheduled to be sentenced for a few DUI arrests this coming Tuesday. Sytch just completed rehab.
The Matt Mitrione vs. Oli Thompson fight that was promoted last Friday night in Bellator is, in fact, now official for 7/16 in London at the O2 Arena, as the Missouri commission cleared Mitrione. Mitrione was knocked silly in the opening moments of his fight with Carl Seumanutafa and his fighting again three weeks later seemed way too early. But it’ll be the semi-main event on that show.
Roderick Strong vs Matt Riddle was announced for the 7/16 Evolve show in Queens, NY at La Broom at 4 p.m. The early start time is to avoid going head-to-head with the WWE show in Madison Square Garden. Other new Evolve matches announced are Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Tony Nese and Riddle vs. Marty Scurll on 7/17 in Melrose, MA.
They are also running a Sunday at 3 p.m. show before SummerSlam in with a show in Brooklyn headlined by Timothy Thatcher vs. Drew Gulak, Tommy End vs. Matt Riddle, Sabre Jr. vs. Cedric Alexander plus Cody Rhodes, Drew Galloway, Chris Hero, Tracy Williams, Scurll, TJP, Ethan Page, Fred Yehi and Peter Kaasa.
Silas Young on Twitter noted that his ROH contract has expired and he’s now a free agent.
Alpha 1 Wrestling on 8/21 at 4 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus in Hamilton, ONT.
NWA Cajun Heat tomorrow night in Morgan City, LA at the Municipal Auditorium with Jax Dane vs. Mustang Mike for the NWA title plus Kevin Nash appears, Greg Anthony vs. Americos, Rob Conway vs Rodney Mack and Jeremy Moore vs Matt Riviera.
Today is the 50th anniversary of an Ernie Ladd vs. Destroyer match plus a Battle Royal at the Sam Houston Coliseum in Houston (thanks to Tom Blatter)
Jerry Lawler’s holiday weekend got off to a good start Friday as domestic assault charges against he and his fiancee were dismissed in a Memphis, TN, courtroom. Later on in the day, his suspension from WWE was lifted, effective immediately according to Pro Wrestling Sheet.
The 66-year-old Lawler and 27-year-old Lauryn McBride were arrested several weeks ago after police came to their West Memphis, TN, home after a violent altercation between the two. Police arrested both of them as they couldn’t determine who was the primary aggressor. The charges will be removed from their records.
WWE released the following: “Jerry Lawler’s legal matter has been resolved and his suspension has been lifted, effective immediately.”
The two had an argument when Lawler returned home that night after a wrestling show in Memphis and claimed that she had lied about her whereabouts and been drinking with friends while watching the NBA playoffs. McBride attempted to call 911 but apparently hung up the phone before betting an operator, but police traced the call and came to the home.
McBride told officers Lawler held her against the kitchen counter and hit her on the left side of the head, and then pushed her against the stove, and went upstairs and got a pistol and told her to “go ahead and kill yourself.”
Lawler said McBride scratched him in the face, threw a candle at him and kicked him in the groin. He said she was the one who brought the pistol into the kitchen after getting it from the garage and she was trying to leave and drive away, but he stopped her from driving because she was intoxicated.
After the two were released following a hearing, a judge ordered them to stay away from each other.
Des Moines, Iowa: – John Pesek beat Henry Graber in 2 straight falls – Alan Eustace drew Abe Kashey
1934
Waterloo, Iowa: – Bronko Nagurski beat Earl Wampler (Wampler was a late substitute for Ray Steele)
1940
Des Moines, Iowa: – World Heavyweight Champion Orville Brown defeated Allen Lovelock
1942
Des Moines, Iowa: – World Heavyweight Champion Orville Brown defeated Ray Steele 2 falls to 0 – Tom Zaharias beat Carlos Rodriquez 2 falls to 0 – Jack Kennedy and Cowboy Luttrall went to a 30 minute draw
1949
Mexico City, Mexico: – Cavernario Galindo defeated Tarzan Lopez for the Mexico National Light Heavyweight Title
1950
– Leo Wallick defeated Bob Cummings to win the Pacific Coast Wrestling Junior Heavyweight Title
1958
Minneapolis, Minnesota: – Fritz Von Erich and Hans Hermann defeated Doc and Mike Gallagher for the Minneapolis version of the NWA World Tag Team Titles
1961
Reynoldsburg, Ohio: – Steve Stanlee defeated Frankie Talaber to win the Ohio Heavyweight Title
1962
Osaka, Japan: – Rikidozan and Toyonobori defeated Mike Sharpe and Buddy Austin to win the JWA All Asia Tag Team Titles
1965
Kansas City, Kansas: – Cowboy Bob Ellis and Sonny Myers beat Bob Geigel and Dutch Savage – Johnny Valentine drew Pat O’Connor
1966
Hiroshima, Japan: – Michiaki Yoshimura and Giant Baba defeated Killer Karl Kox and Eddie Graham to win the JWA All Asia Tag Team Titles
1966
Sydney, Australia: – Mark Lewin and Dominic DeNucci defeated Larry Hennig and Harley Race to win the International Wrestling Alliance World Tag Team Titles
Monterrey, Mexico – Rene Guajardo defeated Jerry London to win the NWA World Middleweight Title
1967
Chattanooga, Tennessee: – Tamaya Soto and Great Yamaha (Kantaro Hoshino) defeated Billy and Jimmy Hines for the Mid-America version of the NWA World Tag Team Titles
1968
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada: – Abdullah the Butcher and Armand Hussein defeated Don Leo Jonathan and Haystacks Calhoun to win the Vancouver version of the NWA Canadian Tag Team Titles
1970
Honolulu, Hawaii: – Billy Robinson and Johnny Barend defeated Pedro Morales and Bing Ki Lee for the NWA Hawaii Tag Team Titles
Mobile, Alabama: – The Mysterious Medic defeated Bob Kelly to win the NWA Gulf Coast Heavyweight Title
Lubbock, Texas: – Bull Ramos defeated Terry Funk for the NWA Western States Heavyweight Title
1971
Tokyo, Japan: – Patty O’Hara and Texas Red defeated Jumbo Miyamoto and Aiko Kyo for the WWWA World Tag Team Titles
Memphis, Tennessee: – Sputnik Monroe defeated Len Rossi to win the NWA Southern Junior Heavyweight Title
Kansas City, Kansas: – Bob Ellis & Rufus R. Jones & The Viking defeated Buddy Austin & Bob Orton & Tor Kamata via DQ – Harley Race defeated Baron Von Raschke in three falls
Jacksonville, Florida: – Bobby Duncum defeated Bob Roop for the NWA Florida Brass Knuckles Title
1972
Chattanooga, Tennessee: – Len Rossi and Bearcat Brown defeated Don and Al Greene for the NWA Mid-America Tag Team Titles – Sputnik Monroe and Tommy Gilbert defeated Ron and Don Wright to win the NWA Tennessee Tag Team Titles
Tokyo, Japan: – Sarah Lee defeated Aiko Kyo to win the WWWA World Singles Title
1973
Green Bay, Wisconsin: – AWA Tag Team Champions Nick Bockwinkel & Ray Stevens beat The Crusher & Wahoo McDaniel in 2 out of 3 falls – Billy Robinson beat Lars Anderson by dq – Ivan Koloff beat Ken Patera – Geoff Portz beat Rene Goulet
1976
Dixon, Illinois: – Larry Hennig & Greg Gagne & Jim Brunzell beat Nick Bockwinkel & Blackjack Lanza & Bobby Duncum – Baron Von Raschke beat Bull Bullinski – Buddy Wolff beat Buck Zumhofe – Peter Maivia beat George Gadaski
1977
Los Angeles, California: – Texas Red (Red Bastien) defeated Mando Guerrero for the NWA Americas Heavyweight Title
1978
Caguas, Puerto Rico: – Invader I defeated Dick Steinborn to win the WWC Caribbean Heavyweight Title
Monterrey, Mexico: – El Nazi defeated Raul Mata for the Mexico National Heavyweight Title in .
1979
Green Bay, Wisconsin: – AWA Tag Team Champions Verne Gagne & Mad Dog Vachon beat Nick Bockwinkel & Bobby Duncum – Greg Gagne beat Ray Stevens on a reverse decision dq – Super Destroyer Mark II beat Billy Robinson – Paul Ellering drew Jesse Ventura
1980
Amarillo, Texas: – Mr. Hito and Mr. Sakurada defeated Kevin and Kerry Von Erich to win the vacant World Class American Tag Team Titles
1984
Atlanta, Georgia: – Ron Garvin defeated Jake Roberts for the NWA World Television Title – The Spoiler defeated Brad Armstrong to win the NWA National Heavyweight Title
San Antonio, Texas: – Killer Brooks defeated Bobby Jaggers to win the Southwest Championship Wrestling Southwest Heavyweight Title
1988
Dallas, Texas: – Kevin and Kerry Von Erich defeated Iceman Parsons and Terry Taylor for the World Class Tag Team Titles
1989
Omiya, Japan: – Joe Malenko won the AJPW World Junior Heavyweight Title by defeating Mitsuo Momota
1991
– WCW fired Ric Flair and stripped him of the WCW World Heavyweight Title
1994
Dallas, Texas: – Chris Adams defeated Rod Price to win the GWF North American Heavyweight Title
1996
Memphis, Tennessee; – Jerry Lawler and Bill Dundee defeated Flex Kavana (The Rock) and Bart Sawyer to win the USWA Tag Team Titles
2000
San Antonio, Texas: – The Headbangers (Mosh and Thrasher) defeated Rudy Boy Gonzalez and Bonecrusher to win the Texas Wrestling Alliance Tag Team Titles
2003
Rochester, New York: – Team Angle (Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas) defeated Eddie Guerrero and Tajiri to win the WWE Tag Team Titles
Last week, Andrew Sanchez beat his teammate Eric Spicely in just 47 seconds to advance to the finals. This week, teammates fight each other again as Amanda Cooper goes against Lanchana Green. Claudia Gadelha has brought in Miesha Tate to be a guest coach on this week’s episode. Not surprisingly, she’s showing them her takedown techniques. Cooper and Green are both thrilled, with the latter noting that wrestling isn’t something she does a lot of back home in England.
Green is freaking out at the house because she usually fights at 125, and even though she made the weight for her first fight, her body rebounded and gained weight after. “I’ve got a week so I think I can get it done.” Coincidentally at the next training session, Gadelha admits Cooper is both stronger and heavier. “I can’t prepare my fighters for this fight. I’m too close to them.”
Green wins an impromptu bowling tournament in the house using UFC water bottles as the bowling pins. The focus goes from there to her training at the gym. She says that no matter how good of friends she has been with Cooper, when the fight comes, she’ll have to turn on her “mean face.” She says she started out in muay thai, didn’t make much money, then realized once UFC had a strawweight division, she could make it.
Team Jedrzejczyk fighters Khalil Rountree and Josh Stansbury are preparing for their semifinal fight since Rountree got back in as an injury alternate which Dana White notes guarantees at least one Jedrzejczyk fighter will be in the finals. Meanwhile, Cooper has gotten her weight down to 120.2 so she’s almost there, but she’s worried about cutting the final four pounds successfully in the morning. She’s 119.6 after she wakes up and she’s in a hurry to get to the gym and finish the cut.
Cooper literally sweats it in the sauna until the bitter end, gets on the scale for the weigh-in, and she’s 117.5. She gets an additional hour to get down to the one pound allowance of 116. White: “If she doesn’t make it she’s out of the competition. And I can tell you when you get that far down that last pound and a half isn’t easy.” Green is 115.0 on the dot.
After an extra hour of sweating and water shedding and wearing nothing but what she was born with, she finally makes 116 even on the scale. I’m happy she made it but I’m concerned that she’s going to be super drawn out and dehydrated for that fight – and White notes that he’s thinking the exact same thing.
* Amanda Cooper (Team Gadelha) vs. Lanchana Green (Team Gadelha)
John McCarthy is our ref. Cooper is in the red trunks and Green is in the black. We’re starting the fight with under ten minutes left so this isn’t going even a full round. Cooper is being aggressive early and forcing Green to backpedal. It’s deceptive though because Green already had a black eye from training before the fight began. Cooper shoots for a single and gets it. Green kicks her away but she jumps back on in side control. Cooper is drilling her with hard lefts. Green tries to scramble but Cooper gets right back on top in full. Nasty right elbows from guard. Green tries to scramble and gives up position again allowing Cooper to take her back and sink in the RNC with under a minute left. Green taps at 4:25.
Cooper advances to the finals. Next week’s show is the season finale featuring Rountree vs. Stansbury and Tatiana Suarez vs. Kate Jackson.
– WWE Tag Team Champions The New Day (Big E & Kofi Kingston) beat The Vaudevillains, Usos, and Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson to retain
This was an elimination match. Jimmy Uso pinned Gotch with a superkick in the first elimination, Anderson pinned Jimmy after the Magic Killer in the second elimination, and Kingston pinned Anderson to win the match.
– Dolph Ziggler pinned Curtis Axel after a superkick
– Baron Corbin pinned Titus O’Neil with the End of Days
– A.J. Styles did an interview and vowed to destroy John Cena in their match.
– NXT Women’s Champion Asuka beat Natalya to retain after submitting her with the Asuka lock.
– A.J. Styles pinned John Cena in 17:47
Styles went for a Pele kick but hit the refeee. Cena put Styles in the STF and he tapped out. Anderson & Gallows ran in and Cena beat them both down. Styles then hit Cena with the Styles clash. Anderson & Gallows & Styles were beating on Cena when the Usos came in for the save.
– WWE Women’s Champion Charlotte submitted Becky Lynch with the Figure Eight to retain
– Shinsuke Nakamura beat Chris Jericho with the Kinshasa
– WWE Champion Dean Ambrose beat Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins when he pinned Owens after hitting Dirty Deeds in a three-way to retain
Luke Fordward, the CMLL wrestler known as Thunder, passed away today.
Daniel Lopez, (Hall of Famer El Satanico), his trainer and the father of Fordward’s girlfriend, had reported a few days ago that he was gravely ill and needed a miracle. It is believed that he passed away due to lung cancer.
In a translation of a quote by Fredo Esparza, Lopez talked about Fordward.
“I don’t have the words to thank everyone for so many prayers and blessings,” wrote Lopez. “Friends, family, confidants, every fan since all this has served. Luke Fordward “Thunder,” member of my family has left us today and I know that thanks to all of you best wishes his road was illuminated. It hurts so much what we are going through and today he has beaten the damned cancer, but starting today we have much more strength from all of you to continue fighting and more importantly to cover to gran luchaadora, my daughter Daniela, and with the help of our angel that is now with God, we will come out of this difficult moment. Once again, thank you to everyone. We will miss, you Luke,”
Fordward had been used as a headliner in CMLL until disappearing a few months ago.
I’m here live in Winter Haven, FL, for NXT where we’re expecting a crowd of approximately 250.
– Pre show during the meet and greet, Mike Rome introduced us to the new hostess and ring announcer Charly Caruso (FKA Charly Arnolt).
No Way Jose beat Josh Woods
Jose did the baseball spots, and won it with the wind up punch and a half nelson slam.
Oney Lorcan beat Dan Matha
Dan took most of the match with some hard hitting lariats and tight headlocks. Oney got fired up and hit three straight corner running uppercuts and a running neckbreaker for the win.
Andrade cien Almas beat Steve Cutler
Cutler was smack talking the crowd and taunting Cien in this one, cutting off all the hope spots before Andrade locked in a dragon sleeper for the submission win.
Ember Moon beat Billie Kay
Top rope spinning stunner for the win by Ember — an amazing move.
American Alpha beat The Authors Of Pain
Hard-hitting and fast paced, Alpha threw the big men around. It was impressive and they were able to win when Gable rolled up one of the Authors for the win.
Bayley and Aliyah beat Daria and Mandy Rose
The heels worked over Aliyah most of the match until Bayley ran wild and hit the Belly to Bayley for the win
– In ring promo with Sawyer Fulton and Alexander Wolfe who said a storm was coming. Telling the fans they “should better care” was met with “We don’t care” chants.
Austin Aries beat Mojo Rawley
Plenty of dirty heel tactics by Aries, using the ropes to his advantage all match. In fact, he won it with his feet on the ropes to steal the win.
Hideo Itami and TM61 beat Wesley Blake, Tino Sabbatelli, and NXT Champion Samoa Joe
There was a big reaction for Hideo’s return to action and he immediately went after Samoa Joe to brawl. Match built to a Hideo hot tag and he ran wild with various running and flying kicks. He finally hit the running, jumping single leg dropkick for the win. Post-match, the winners celebrate and Hideo embraces TM61.
Itami (the former KENTA) has been out of action since May 2015 with a shoulder injury.
– Air Date: June 30, 2016 – Location: AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami, FL
– The Big News:
Cesaro won an opportunity at the U.S. Championship but promptly lost that title match to Rusev. They announced Rusev would defend his title again on Raw against Titus O’Neil. Also, Dean Ambrose beat The Miz in a non-title champion vs. champion match.
– Show Recap:
They started with a cold open and promo for a Fatal 4-Way match to determine a number one contender for the US Title (with the title match also taking place tonight). This was followed by a segment where each guy cut a promo “earlier tonight” about the match.
It started with Cesaro driving up to the the building. He began cutting a promo immediately upon leaving his SUV, saying he was inviting his opponents to the uppercut party. Next was Apollo Crews, who was working out. Crews said he was the underdog, but sometimes the impossible becomes possible.
Next was Sheamus and his wacky moustache (and beard). Sheamus didn’t know why Crews was in the match but would have fun kicking his head off. Finally, Alberto Del Rio said he didn’t know who Crews was before Monday, and was going after his old comrade Rusev. This was pretty goofy, but at least it was different.
Mauro Ranallo, Byron Saxton and David Otunga were the commentators again. Because of the skeleton crew, I guess, a generic man was the ring announcer. They never mentioned his name.
U.S. Title #1 Contender’s Fatal 4-Way: Cesaro beat Alberto Del Rio, Apollo Crews and Sheamus via submission
There was a cool spot where Del Rio had the armbar on Sheamus but Crews nailed him with a standing moonsault. Crews took out himself and Sheamus from the ring with a running crossbody. Cesaro gave Del Rio the big swing and applied the sharpshooter for the tapout win.
The match went about 11 minutes and it was fine. It was somewhat surprising to see Del Rio tap. It felt like Crews or Sheamus would get back in, but they didn’t.
Afterwards, Del Rio attacked Cesaro, sending him into the steel steps followed by the double footstomp. As some referees checked on Cesaro, Rusev marched to the ring. He congratulated Cesaro for achieving the greatest honour a man can receive – a match with him. Rusev didn’t want to wait and challenged Cesaro to the title match right now.
After a break, the referees continued to check on Cesaro. They began taking him to the back, but Rusev called him a coward, so Cesaro stopped, turned back toward the ring, and accepted the match.
U.S. Title Match: Rusev (w/Lana) beat Cesaro via submission
With Rusev sitting on the top rope, Cesaro hit an uppercut and dropkick to send him out of the ring, followed by a cannonball. He tried a crossbody in the ring, but Rusev caught him, hit a swinging side slam and somersault senton for a near fall. Cesaro came back with uppercuts and a clothesline for two.
Cesaro tried countering an Accolade into the sharpshooter, but he was in too much pain, so Rusev was able apply the hold. Rusev tried pulling back on the Accolade the way he did to Kalisto, but Cesaro rolled through into a pin attempt for a close near fall. However, Rusev caught him with a side kick and applied the Accolade for the submission win.
It was only about 7 minutes but good while it lasted. The announcers put over how much pain Cesaro must’ve been in throughout. The crowd got into Cesaro as the match went on and there was also “Rusev sucks” chants.
Renee Young caught up with Rusev and Lana backstage. Rusev said Independance Day should be Rusev Day. He said while Americans would be stuffing their faces with processed meats and shooting off fireworks in the name of Rusev, he would be with Lana on an island away from this country. Renee informed him that he has to defend the title against Titus O’Neil on Raw. Lana said, “Rusev crush” and they left.
The first 37 minutes of this show was devoted to all of the above mentioned U.S. Title stuff. They aired a video package of the special olympics deal from Raw and showed Dana Brooke walking backstage.
Dana Brooke beat Billie Kay via pinfall
No entrance for Billie Kay. Ranallo mentioned that Kay was from Australia and this was her debut. Sasha Banks watched backstage. Kay made a brief comeback, but this was basically a squash. Brooke won in 3-4 minutes with a Samoan Driver. They used as many camera cuts as possible to save this one.
Renee found Banks backstage. Banks reminded us that she made Brooke tap out. She cut a pretty good promo, saying she has a long history with Charlotte and Charlotte knows she’s breathing down her neck. Banks was interrupted by Summer Rae, who said everyone was sick of her and she hopes they get drafted to different brands. Banks challenged her to a match tonight.
MizTV with Dean Ambrose
Maryse introduced Miz, who said this could be the last MizTV on Smackdown because of the draft. People cheered. He then said that MizTV could be exclusive to Smackdown. People booed. He was about to introduce his guest Dean Ambrose, but before he could, Ambrose came out anyway.
Ambrose brought a Cuban sandwich to the ring. He blamed his busy schedule for not having time to eat because they’ve been running him around like crazy. Miz was mad he had a sandwich. Ambrose said he needed to keep his strength up because he just won the title and has a triple threat match coming up.
Ambrose said he was a fan of MizTV and mocked his fancy set. Miz said the only thing the Ambrose Asylum had was the plant and Ambrose told him not to talk about Mitch that way. They asked the crowd if they’d rather see the Asylum and they cheered. Miz put himself over for remaining IC champion despite his schedule. Ambrose responded by calling himself the champion.
Miz called him a joke because while Miz looks like a champion, Ambrose doesn’t, and called him a black mark on anyone who holds a championship in WWE. As Miz ranted, Ambrose continued eating and had mustard stains on his mouth. Ambrose got in his face and said he could see where this was going, and they both put down their titles like they were about to fight.
Miz took off his white suit jacket, so Ambrose used it to wipe his mouth. Maryse grabbed the jacket it, tossed it over Ambrose’s face to blind him, and Miz knocked him down with a boot. Miz and Maryse left, while Ambrose sat up and continued eating his sandwich.
The people seemed to like Ambrose, but he didn’t come off great here. He obviously got his revenge later in the show, but he was punked here by Miz and Maryse, and then he kept eating his sandwich on the ground like a bum.
Erick Rowan & Braun Strowman (w/Bray Wyatt) beat two jobbers via pinfall
Strowman got the pin after about a minute. The Wyatt Family posed but they were interrupted by New Day on the screen. Kingston cut a promo in the vein of Bray Wyatt, and asked Bray what he fears. Big E wondered if he feared soap or women with big ol’ booties.
Big E told Bray to expose himself, but Kingston didn’t want to see Bray exposed. Big E agreed and told Bray to keep his sheep in its barn. Bray laughed and said he loved how everything was a joke to them. He pointed out Xavier Woods’ apparent concern and said the devil calls out for him. “Run.”
Sasha Banks beat Summer Rae via submission
Summer knocked Banks off the apron with a big boot and they went to commercial less than two minutes into the match, even though nothing else happened since the previous commercial break. Summer had the heat after the break and the crowd chanted “Let’s go Sasha.” Banks came back with running clotheslines and a kick to the crotch (I think).
Banks missed a running double knee attack, and Summer hit a wheel kick for a two count. Banks missed the double knees again and Summer hit a DDT for two. Banks finally did hit the double knee strike, followed by a crossface for the tapout win after about 8 minutes.
They aired a video package from Raw highlighting the stuff with Rollins, Ambrose, Styles, Cena, etc, including Rollins promo on Reigns.
Non-Title: WWE Champion Dean Ambrose beat IC Champion The Miz (w/Maryse) via pinfall
Ambrose was all over Miz early and was about to go for a suicide dive, but Maryse pulled Miz out of the way. Ambrose went right back after him and tried Dirty Deeds, but Miz sent him to the outside. Ambrose promptly followed with a clothesline. Maryse tried to distract Ambrose, but that didn’t work either.
Miz was eventually able to toss him into the barricade and then went to commercial (3 minutes into the match). After the break, Miz worked over Ambrose’s leg as fans chanted “Let’s go Ambrose.” Miz went for the skull crushing finale but Ambrose countered into a rollup for two, followed by a neckbreaker.
Ambrose came back with fists, chops, a clothesline, running forearm, bulldog and la magistral cradle for two. Ambrose tried a diving dropkick but Miz caught him (sort of) and applied the Figure Four. Ambrose got to the ropes and followed with a suicide dive.
Miz then countered a rebound clothesline and hit skull crushing finale for a near fall. Miz went for a double axe handle off the top but Ambrose countered into Dirty Deeds for the win. Pretty good match that went about 15 minutes.
– Final Thoughts:
This was a skeleton crew show and it sure felt like it. Still, the US title stuff and the main event were both good.
UFC had a conference call today for UFC 200. Even though both Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier were there, Brock Lesnar was the guy who got asked the most questions. When asked about Stephanie McMahon’s comments on WWE not supporting his fight necessarily, he said, “I don’t care what she says.” When he was asked what affect it would have on his drawing power if he lost, he said, “I really don’t give a sh*t.”
“This isn’t about my fans. This is about me living my life, being the person I want to be. Granted, without the fans and everything, none of us would be able to do this. I get that. But I don’t sit up at night wondering, `Is my drawing power gonna be hurt’ or ‘Are my WWE fans gonna tune in and watch me do this.’ I don’t give two sh*ts about that. This is about me. I want to get in there and be an athlete again. That’s what this is about.”
Lesnar also said he didn’t know if he would fight again after this fight. He said training camp is going great. He said being forced out of UFC due to his illness has haunted him, and he wanted to come back before it was too late.
We’re looking for reports from tonight’s NXT show in Winter Haven, FL as well as tomorrow’s show at Tokyo Sumo Hall (Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins vs. Kevin Owens for WWE title; John Cena vs. A.J. Styles, New Day vs. Vaudevillains for tag team titles, Usos vs. Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson, Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Chris Jericho, Charlotte vs. Natalya for women’s title, Dolph Ziggler vs. Curtis Axel, Titus O’Neil vs. Baron Corbin, Asuka vs. Becky Lynch for NXT title). Send reports to NewsTips@WrestlingObserver.com.
SMACKDOWN TONIGHT ON USA AT 8 P.M.
Four-way for U.S. title match with Cesaro vs. Apollo Crews vs. Sheamus & Alberto Del Rio
The 10th annual Wrestling Observer/F4W convention in Las Vegas takes place during UFC’s International Fight Week from July 7 – 11. Ed in San Antonio has information on Facebook, or you can email him at F4Wfan@hotmail.com. It’s always a fun time, so hurry up and make your plans to join Dave Meltzer, Bryan Alvarez, Vinny, Granny, Ed, Peach, Dez, Dr. Lucha, Rodney, Sr. Jaialai, “Filthy” Tom, and the rest of the group in beautiful Las Vegas this July. Plus… some extra secret surprises.
If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today!
It’s a double issue week featuring a look back 40 years at what was the biggest undertaking up to that point in pro wrestling history, and Inoki vs. Ali match, how it came together, what happened that night, coverage of the upcoming G-1 Climax tournament, coverage of Ultima Lucha 3 and details on where the company stands, full coverage of the WWE cruiserweight classic, ROH Best in the World coverage as well as a look at those coming and going from the promotion, the death of Ryan Jimmo, the life and times of Gypsy Joe, and far more about the fallout of the Roman Reigns suspension.
The lead story details this years G-1 tournament including what will air in English, newcomers to the tournament, some interesting political news regarding who is and isn’t in it, as well as a complete lineup for every show.
This issue looks at the background of Ali vs. Inoki, the first time boxer vs. wrestler with major stars came close to happening, boxing champions who did wrestling and wrestlers who faced boxers including involving one of the all-time greats, Thesz vs. Marciano talk, and the two best known mixed matches prior to Ali vs. Inoki in the U.S.
There is also a look at Japanese pro wrestling in the 70s and how that led to the match, the business of Billy Robinson involving Inoki vs. Baba, how Inoki was being marketed, and the attempts to put together Ali vs. Bruno Sammartino and how that led to this.
The goals of Ali vs. Inoki for the New Japan side, the pro wrestling angles, just how big the match was why the match wasn’t a work, where Ali’s career stood at the time, media coverage, how the terrible rules were the reason the fight, Sammartino’s broken neck and return, Stan Hansen becoming a superstar in Japan, and why Ali vs. Inoki was not a success in much of the U.S, and much more in this issue of the Wrestling Observer.
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.
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.
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Wrestling Observer Newsletter BACK ISSUE
READ IT HERE: May 24, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: ECW Hardcore Heaven/WWF No Mercy – Amidst rumors flying everywhere of the possible demise of the company and others who are talking that the company is a short period away from growing bigger than ever, the ECW Hardcore Heaven PPV came off like a show that was a bridge for the company to something new, but when it was over, there were still no answers over whether what is new is good news or bad news… Current subscribers click here to continue reading.
– AdWeek has a story on the 30 Most Powerful Women in sports. Both Stephanie McMahon and Ronda Rousey made the cut. I’m not making that up.
– Dwayne Johnson will be getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in a ceremony that will take place in 2017.
– New names announced for PWG’s Battle of Los Angeles include Ricochet, Matt Riddle, Chris Hero, and Mark Andrews.
– Chris Jericho talks about the Jericho Network, which debuts on 7/7 on PodcastOne. Konnan will have a regular show and the plans are 10-12 shows per month. His goal is to have six strong shows and six shows that will be given a chance to make it. He said it won’t affect his show and he’s not going to be a guest on the other shows. Konnan will be a regular as noted yesterday.
WWE
The Sling TV service will be adding USA Network, which means Raw and Smackdown live for cord-cutters who use that service.
There is an online presale for the 8/29 RAW show from Houston with the code HOUSTON. The presale ends at 10 p.m. tonight.
UFC
The 2016 UFC Hall of Fame Ceremony will be at the Fan Expo at the Las Vegas Convention Center at Noon on 7/10.
UFC and Topps announced a digital trading card app Topps UFC Knockout 16, which debuted today on download for free at selectiOS and Android devices via the Apple App Store and Google Play.
UFC 202 continues to get packed up as Cody Garbrandt vs. Takeya Mizugaki has been added the the 8/20 show in Las Vegas. I was hopeful for Garbrandt to get a higher ranked guy next. Tim Means vs. Sean Strickland was also added.
Erick Koch vs. Drew Dober has been added to the 9/10 UFC 203 show in Cleveland.
More events next week in Las Vegas regarding International Fight Week:
On 7/6 from 6-8 p.m., Megan Olivi will host a Lip Sync Challenge at Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo with Stipe Miocic, Bruce Buffer, Arianny Celeste, Rashad Evans and Uriah Hall. Tickets are at Ticketmaster.
On 7/7 from 9:30 p.m. to Noon there will be a TopGolf Challenge at TopGolf Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Hotel with Stipe Miocic, Carly Baker, Kahili Blundel, Donald Cerrone, Urijah Faber, Max Holloway, Luke Rockhold and Stephen Thompson.
On 7/9 from 6-8 a.m. will be a 5K race starting at The Green at Town Square with Forrest Griffin as MC plus appearances by Dennis Bermudez, Donald Cerrone, John Dodson, Matt Hughes, Raquel Pennington, Kenda Perez, Ben Rothwell, Ovince Saint Preux and Aljamain Sterling. Running will be Luciana Andrade, Carly Baker, Dan Hardy and Tecia Torres.
There will be a UFC 200 viewing party at the Green Valley Ranch Resort at 2300 Paseo Verde Parkway from 6 p.m. on with John Dodson, Neil Magny, Yair Rodriguez and Dustin Poirier. There will also be a viewing party at the Red Rock Casino with Dennis Bermudez, Kenda Perez, Ben Rothwell, Aljamain Sterling and Ovince Saint Preux, and at the El Cortez Hotel and Casino with Jeremy Stephens and Stephen Thompson.
MISCELLANEOUS
Ken Patera has been added to the Tragos/Thesz Hall of fame weekend list of people attending. He will be at an autograph signing at 2 p.m.on 7/23 at the Dan Gable Museum. Others scheduled include Brian Blair, Baron Von Raschke, Bob Backlund, Bill Murdoch, Chael Sonnen, Charlie Thesz, Dan Gable, me, George Schire, Gerald Brisco, Greg Oliver, Iron Sheik, Jason Sanderson, JJ Dillon, Larry Hennig, Magnum T.A., Ricochet, Rob Schaumberger, Stan Kowalski, Steve Johnson, Terry Funk Tessa Blanchard, Tully Blanchard, Wade Keller, Wes Brisco and Big E.
In Your Face Wrestling on 7/16 in Albany, NY at the Polish Community Center with Sluck Wagner Brown vs. Cloudy plus Lu Fisto.
Some early guest names listed for WrestleCon in Orlando for WrestleManai week, besides Jimmy Snuka, include Vader, Robert Fuller, The Godwinns, Katie Lee Burchill, Godfather, Madusa, Tito Santana, Paul Orndorff, Greg Valentine, Perry Saturn, Hornswoggle, Jim Mitchell, Hillbilly Jim, Boogeyman, Lanny Poffo, Outback Jack, Headbangers, Jillian Hall and Barry Horowitz.
House of Hardcore on 8/6 in Pasadena, TX at the Convention Center is headlined by Tommy Dreamer & Mickie James vs. Pepper Parks & Cherry Bomb (Braxton Sutter & Allie in TNA) in a Texas death match, Lance Hoyt vs. Billy Gunn, plus Moose, Carlito, Vickie Guerrero, Thea Trinidad, Sandman, MVP and Tony Nese.
All Pro Wrestling is part of the Fit of Mind Freedom Festival on 7/9 at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Fracisco. Activities take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and also include a heath Fair, live music and Yoga & Fitness.
Smash Wrestling on 8/21 in Pickering, ONT at the Recreational Complex with Mark Haskins from the U.K. vs. Tarik for the Smash title. They also run 7/9 in Fort Erie at the Naive Friendship Centre, and 7/30 in Oshawa, ONT at the Music Hall.
CMLL on Monday in Puebla before a packed house: Malayo & Sauron b Centella Roja & Rey Samuray, Black Tiger & Hombre Bala Jr. & Oro Jr. b Ares & King Jaguar & Policeman, Estrellita & Marcela & Skadi b Amapola & Comandante & Zeuxis, Misterioso Jr. & Pierroth & Sagrado b Fuego & Paris & Triton, Johnny Idol & Mistico & Stuka Jr. b Tama Tonga & Tanga Roa & Rey Escorpion-DQ, Rush b Volador Jr. after Pierroth gave Volador a low blow when Rey Escorpion distracted ref Tirantes. Rey Escorpion then accepted Rush’s invitation to join Los Ingobernables.
Michael Carpenter at KnightRiderRulz@hotmail.com is looking for a copy of the ROH TV show that aired last night on Comet TV.
Trailer for the movie “Vigilante Dairies” with Rampage Jackson here.
Evolve will be presenting matches involving people in the Cruiserweight Classic. Among the bouts will be:
7/16 in Queens, NY: Johnny Gargano vs. Cedric Alexander, Zack Sabre Jr. vs. TJ Perkins, Drew Galloway vs. Drew Gulak, Timothy Thatcher vs. Marty Scurll for Evolve title
7/17 in Melrose, MA: Tommaso Ciampa vs. Cedric Alexander, Drew Galloway vs. Johnny Gargano, Timothy Thatcher vs. TJ Perkins for Evolve title
8/19 in Joppa, MD: Drew Gulak vs. Tony Nese, TJ Perkins vs. Cedric Alexander, Timothy Thatcher vs. Matt Riddle for Evolve title no holds barred, Cody Rhodes vs. Johnny Gargano
8/20 in Brooklyn, NY: Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Cedric Alexander, Timothy Thatcher vs. Drew Gulak for Evolve title, Matt Riddle vs. Tommy End
