Category: Plugs

Online Subscribers read it now: February 15, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Daniel Bryan retires

F4WOnline.com SALE! One full month of unlimited access for only $3.99!

The newest issue of the Wrestling Observer is one of the best of the year.  A very detailed look at the end of Bryan Danielson’s career and retirement. Looking back at sports, pro wrestling and the ramifications that are and are not being talked about.  Danielson’s retirement is a big story, both his short and long term impact on pro wrestling.  How his story will act as a catalyst for change not only within pro wrestling but all contact sports.  If you are a wrestling fan, a sports fan or a science fan, this may be the most important issue of the year.

Bryan Danielson’s retirement speech, career highlights, home town, character both in and out of the ring, booking, the crazy way he ended up as champion for the first time, the birth of the “Yes” chant, the build to WrestleMania 30 & 31, the various exams, why he wanted to continue wrestling and WWE didn’t, his goals outside of WWE and why he changed his mind in the last few weeks.

The quandary he was in about continuing his career, how his career began, the formation of ROH and the changing landscape of independent wrestling, the changing ideas of what a pro wrestling headliner can look like, the first time I ever saw him wrestle while sitting with Red Bastien and Nick Bockwinkel

The suspension of Titus O’Neil, a longtime WWE star talking about going into another sport, another star looking at retiring soon, lots of WrestleMania plans including an early summer major match, Steve Austin’s WrestleMania status, update on promotion of Stephanie McMahon, star who may be interested in returning, Fast Lane, A.J. Styles talks his beginnings in WWE and how hard he tried to hide the Royal Rumble story, how DDP figured in Styles’ return, Linda McMahon forms a new company, Roman Reigns in Raw main events, WWE cuts five in developmental, new WWE books. New announcer hired, Update on many Tough Enough competitors from the past season, plans for a WWE show taped this summer, international star WWE has interest in, as well as a look at all the weekend house shows from WWE & NXT with business notes.

The lastest Wrestling Observer Newsletter

February 15, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Daniel Bryan retires
An in depth look at the career of Daniel Bryan.

F4WOnline.com SALE! One full month of unlimited access for only $3.99!

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: February 15, 1988 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: A Tale of Two Hebners
All the details on Hulk Hogan losing the WWF title to Andre the Giant in a historic angle, plus tons of news and notes.

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

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

Also in this issue:

–Komatsu & Tanaka debut in Mexico

–A look at Friday’s show at Arena Mexico

–A look at Lucha Libre Elite

–An international promotion has apparently inked a U.S. television deal

–A look at the backstage issues in AAA

–Why many of the wrestlers are unhappy

–How the economy in Mexico is making it very difficult for the promotions in ways you normally wouldn’t think

–A look back at how this exact situation took AAA down from its early heyday

–Why Mexican talent is appearing more and more in the U.S.

–Strange story involving Sexy Star and the mixed tag team titles

–AAA TV taping notes

–Dragon Gate’s big match where the losing faction has to split up

–Notes on the New Japan World service

–Notes on this week’s two New Japan PPV shows

–Hiroshi Tanahashi talks the loss of Shinsuke Nakamura

–Tanahashi talks other aspects of New Japan

–A.J. Styles talks his time in New Japan

–Jim Ross starts announcing New Japan this past week

–Notes on the death of Axl Rotten

–A look at the new concept of FITE TV, a streaming service that will include a lot of pro wrestling and MMA content

–A look at Jim Ross’ involvement in the business

–A look at PWG’s show this week

–Two of the best indie wrestlers to battle in Dallas over Mania weekend

–More on the Hall of Fame honorees for this year

–Sting back on the road

–Lucha Underground season three schedule

–Plans going forward for the company

–Notes from Lucha Underground television

–Complete lineup for the next ROH iPPV show

–ROH inks international TV deal

–Notes on the next major New Japan/ROH May tour

–New ROH signings

–A look at ROH TV over the next month plus

–Notes on the TNA firing of Awesome Kong

–Update on TNA offices move

–Update on Davey Richards

–Update on UFC 199

–C.M. Punk injury notes

–Notes on the next several UFC PPV shows

–Jon Jones update

–Major UFC star talking potential retirement after upcoming title fight

–Ronda Rousey update

–UFC’s next major show on FOX

–Update on Conor McGregor

–Update on B.J. Penn’s return

–Yoel Romero drug test

–Tim Means says the drug he failed his test was one he’s never heard of

–Another UFC drug test failure

–Lots of new UFC fights

–Dana White talks why he made a mistake with Sage Northcutt

–Who was the masked man who attacked Josh Barnett at the UFC workouts

–New fighters debut

–More on Bellator signing Chris Leben

–Benson Henderson talks trying pro boxing

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.

Rates are:

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

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

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

The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: February 8, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Bret Hart diagnosed with cancer, Nakamura’s final NJPW match

The new double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter looks at Bret Hart’s battle with cancer, his discussions about it, as well as updates on the situation and a look at his background.  We also have the most detailed coverage of the last month of season two of Lucha Underground, with backstage news on the product, an update on season three, lots of business notes, and full coverage of all the Ultima Lucha 2 matches and direction.  We also look at Shinsuke Nakamura’s final day with New Japan Pro Wrestling, where Nakamura and New Japan go from here, Nakamura’s background and  building the IC title, a look at the next two New Japan PPV shows and full coverage to this weekend’s biggest event.

We also have updates on Fast Lane and WrestleMania, what’s up with Undertaker, WWE injury updates, updates on next WWE Network special, Licensing issue with new WWE signees, notes on the next NXT Takeover show, a look at all the TV building the next Takeover show, who led to a huge increase in demand for WWE tickets, next WWE show in Madison Square Garden update, Nakamura updates, WWE performer wants to compete in the Olympics and what former pro wrestler went back to the Olympics to medal, Lesnar’s schedule, Tough Enough winner starts out, Other Tough Enough competitors start out, change in Rumble plans, Plans for a WWE Network new series base don wrestling matches, new WWE movie, WWE’s tour of Germany this coming week, and more on Dwayne Johnson’s segment on Raw.

We also look at all the WWE & NXT shows over the past weekend with details on the live events and business notes.

We also have a detailed look at the Awesome Kong-Reby Hardy situation in Manchester, England.  We look at Benson Henderson’s decision to leave UFC for Bellator and take a championship fight, details behind why he made the decision, what Dana White said and what Henderson said.  We look at Pro Wrestling NOAH’s last major event and where it’s storylines are going.

We also have a huge look at the life and career of Archie “The Stomper” Gouldie, one of the most memorable wrestling characters of his generation, with stories about him, his gimmick, how big a star he was in his heyday, his incredibly long career title history, how he was two very different successful characters, and his most famous angles and biggest bouts.  We also have a lot of comments from people who knew him, including how he changed the life and career of J.J. Dillon.  We also look at the life and career of the original Espectrito, the best heel mini of his generation including when he main evented the Los Angeles Sports Arena, a rarity for a mini.

We also look at Saturday’s UFC show, what’s next for the winners, thoughts on Serge Northcutt, as well as business notes on the show and match-by-match coverage.

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: February 15, 1988 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: A Tale of Two Hebners
All the details on Hulk Hogan losing the WWF title to Andre the Giant in a historic angle, plus tons of news and notes.

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

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

Also in this issue:

–First major show of the year at Arena Mexico and who is being honored

–New Japans stars take next step of their careers in Mexico

–Notes on the last Arena Mexico shows

–Health update on one of the most famous wrestlers in Mexico

–CMLL’s top star rips promoter over pay

–Changes at the top in AAA

–Update on AAA Rey de Reyes

–New Japan financial updates

–Goals for New Japan World

–Future superstar starting with New Japan

–New Japan developmental show on New Japan World against NOAH stars

–TV station doing five hours of programming on the birthday of one of the generations’ biggest stars

–DDT’s biggest show of the year

–Is there a link between steroids and brain injuries

–Update on a new startup promotion that has stalled

–Update on Kevin Nash

–Indie promotion takes a big step for a show later this year

–Notes on talks with two U.S. groups on running a joint show and why they fell through

–Jim Cornette and Lucha Underground

–ROH’s May New Japan tour

–More New Japan stars to ROH’s next PPV

–More notes on ROH signings

–Notes on Matt Hardy angle

–TNA injury updates

–Main TNA storylines through the month of March

–TNA ratings news

–TJ Perkins talks about his TNA departure

–Cain Velasquez injury update

–Tons of new UFC main events and timetables for the fights

–Update on UFC in New York

–Lots of new UFC fights

–California looking at changing how weigh-ins are done and the good and bad of it

–Jose Aldo make demands regarding next fight

–Ronda Rousey’s mom talks about her coach

–More UFC drug test issues

–Bellator interested in major star who has just left UFC

–Notes on Bellator’s first show of the year

–Chael Sonnen on Celebrity Apprentice

–Don Frye talks about an offer for him to fight and why it didn’t happen

–WSOF loses title fight over contract issues.

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.

Rates are:

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

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

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

The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: February 1, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2016 Royal Rumble, Road to Wrestlemania, more

Coverage of the Royal Rumble and where things lead to WrestleMania is the lead story in a jam-packed news issue of the Wrestling Observer.  TNA’s statements regarding A.J. Styles, Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson, the timing, what is accurate, and a lot that wasn’t in those statements as to why the deal didn’t happen. The process that led the stars from New Japan and more. The Cain Velasquez and Fabricio Werdum injuries and title match cancellation and what directions UFC took to try and save it.  More on the injury to Hiroshi Tanahashi, the death of Archie “Mongolian Stomper” Gouldie, some stories about his life and career.  WWE Hall of Fame class of 2016, New Japan Fantatstica Mania tour with full rundowns and stories behind it, Nikki Bella injury and what led to the increase in ratings for Raw and Smackdown.

The story behind why HHH won the title, why it was the right booking decision given the destination, questions about the execution, the confusing Fast Lane main event, what the original booking plan was behind Roman Reigns ascension to the top and why it was so hard for Vince McMahon to decide against his winning at last year’s WrestleMania, and questions about the crowds at Fast Lane and Mania for the main events. Update WrestleMania, chart out the Royal Rumble with how long everyone was in, eliminations, and news, Rumble business, poll results and match-by-match results with star ratings. 

The situation with New Japan losing talent, and how the CMLL stars did on the tour.

The arrival of Shinsuke Nakamura to WWE and why he’s in NXT, an update on Daniel Bryan, NXT finances for talent, another endorsement deal for Dwayne Johnson, notes on the next WWE network live special, updates on NXT talent coming to the main roster, lots of WWE injury notes, WWE plans for post-Mania and the European tour, Lesnar dates, details on NXT tapings as well as details on all the weekend WWE events.

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: December 28, 1998 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Bischoff gets historic NBC deal, WCW files lawsuit against WWF over Wrestling With Shadows, more Eric Bischoff and NBC work out a historic deal to air WCW on NBC, WCW files a lawsuit against WWF over Wrestling With Shadows, plus tons of news.

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

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

Also in this issue:

–CMLL gets new national TV deal

–ROH star headed to Mexico

–Notes on New Japan’s weekend shows

–Notes on AAA’s Guerra de Titanes show

–Rey Mysterio Jr. update

–Notes on the rebuilding of one of the most famous wrestling arenas in the world

–More on the career of Mike Sharpe Jr.

–More on the death of Bob Leonard

–A fantastic match worth going out of your way to see

–A look at the Evolve tag team tournament

–More on Evolve and WWE relationship

–Movie about major Japanese star headed to U.S.

–National Hall of Fame notes

–16 Carat Gold tournament notes

–Behind the scenes at Lucha Underground

–Why the main event on ROH show this weekend was changed

–A look at the ROH show in Atlanta

–Notes on the Matt Hardy turn

–Notes on Jeff Hardy signing with TNA

–Details of the new TNA contracts and how they work

–TNA Feast or Fire notes

–TNA star on national show

–Update on UFC and Madison Square Garden court fight

–Carlos Condit talks his future

–Notes on ticket sales for the next UFC PPV show

–Conor McGregor promoting dos Anjos fight

–Why McGregor has so much negotiation power right now

–McGregor talks dos Anjos and Frankie Edgar

–Ronda Rousey on Saturday Night Live and how it did

–Update on UFC drug testing

–Ronda Rousey’s coach banned from cornering

–Anthony Perosh retires

–Demetrious Johnson talks dollar figure he wants to face Cruz in a rematch

–Jose Aldo’s camp says his demands

–Lots of new UFC injuries and fights

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.

Rates are:

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

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

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

The 2015 Observer awards issue, the traditional biggest issue of the year,is up on the web site now.  The issue not only has the awards winners in more than 40 different categories, but all the top place winners, as well as a history with all the awards winners dating back to 1980, as well as my comments on the placings for many of the awards.

The categories are:

Lou Thesz/Ric Flair Award (Wrestler of the Year)

MMA MVP

Most Outstanding Wrestler

Most Outstanding MMA Fighter

Best Box Office Draw

Feud of the Year

Tag Team of the Year

Most Improved

Best on Interviews

Most Charismatic

Best Technical Wrestler

Bruiser Brody Memorial Award (Best Brawler)

Best Flying Wrestler

Most Overrated

Most Underrated

Promotion of the Year

Best Weekly TV show

Pro Wrestling Match of the Year

MMA Match of the Year

Rookie of the Year

Best Non-Wrestler

Best Television Announcer

Worst Television Announcer

Best Major Wrestling show

Worst Major Wrestling Show

Best Wrestling Maneuver

Most Disgusting Promotional Tactic

Worst Television Show

Worst Match of the Year

Worst Feud of the Year

Worst Promotion of the Year

Best Booker

Promoter of the Year

Best Gimmick

Worst Gimmick

Best Pro Wrestling Book

Best Pro Wrestling DVD

We also have an update on the Royal Rumble and Rumble weekend, full coverage of Dominick Cruz’s UFC bantamweight title win and the records set on Sunday’s show and details on the New Japan/Jim Ross announcing deal as well as a look at how this came about and Jim Ross’ overall career.

We also have notes on the 2017 WrestleMania, how Smackdown has affected overall ratings for the USA Network, update on A.J. Styles with WWE, WWE injury updates, Daniel Bryan update, more on Mauro Ranallo and Smackdown, Chris Jericho talks his return, new season of Total Divas, How talent is broken down in NXT, the heat on Josh from Tough Enough, new dates for Brock Lesnar, plus notes from the big NXT tour and all the shows, the NXT Florida shows, as well as the WWE shows in India and the WWE weekend domestic shows and all the business notes.

The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: January 25, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2015 Observer Awards Issue

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@wrestlingobserver.com

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: Dec 14, 1998 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2 biographies in the works about Jesse Ventura
NBC and ABC working on biographies on Jesse Ventura, a look at the end of year events for New Japan and All Japan, plus tons of news and notes.

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

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

Also in this issue:

–How a new TV deal may affect streaming of a weekly major show

–Notes on the first Caristico vs. Rush match since Rush became a major star

–Second generation wrestler tournament

–Dragon Gate’s big show schedule for 2016

–Dragon Gate’s first Korakuen Half show of the year

–NOAH builds up to big show at the end of the month

–Notes on tickets to Nakamura’s final shows with New Japan

–Notes on the early Fantastica Mania shows

–A look at some major shows in the U.K. featuring some of the top wrestlers in the world

–Updates on PWG

–What pro wrestlers are getting statues made of them in their home town

–Jim Crockett Promotions nostalgia show at an old home base for the promotion

–Full details on the climactic Ultima Lucha show for season two

–Full notes on the TV tapings for Lucha Underground with the final angles for those shows

–Notes on the life and career of Mike Sharpe Jr.

–Update on the Jimmy Snuka case

–Hogan case update

–Piper’s last movie business notes

–New TV show set for worldwide distribution on the life of one of pro wrestling’s all-time biggest stars

–Notes from the weekend ROH shows

–TNA getting and losing clearances

–Lots of updated info on how TNA is handling contracts and how independent shows will be handled

–More on what is being offered by TNA to talent

–Kurt Angle’s situation

–A TNA original no longer with the company

–Fertittas make huge business deal offer

–Notes on the Lawler vs. Condit live and PPV business

–Notes on upcoming UFC ticket sales

–Notes on the next Brazil main event

–B.J. Penn coming out of retirement

–Kenny Florian suspension notes

–Wanderlei Silva apologizes to UFC for saying they fix fights

–Notes on the next season of Ultimate Fighter

–More on plans for International Fight Week

–Ronda Rousey movie projects

–Cris Cyborg update

–Notes on the next two UFC shows

–New UFC fights

–Update on Fedor Emelianenko and Rizin in 2016 and unique fight the promotion worked on getting

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.

Our most requested issues in our history are:

*November 17, 1997 (full details of everything leading to the most famous wrestling match finish of modern times at the Survivor Series plus a history of in-ring double-crosses)

*December 21, 1998 (the complete Vince McMahon-Bret Hart conversation right before the Survivor Series match so you’ll know exactly what was said–the conversation played in edited form both on the inaugural broadcast of Confidential as well as in Wrestling with Shadows, but everything that was said between the two about the match that was going to take place that same night)

*August 1, 1994 (the most detailed coverage anywhere of the Vince McMahon steroid trial, an issue praised in numerous newspaper article and Sex, Lies and Headlocks)

*March 26, 2001 (death of WCW and history of pro wrestling on the Turner networks)a

*October 22, 2001 (why the adult audience has left pro wrestling in such great numbers and what needed to have been done to save them)

*July 8, 1991 (Ric Flair leaves WCW as world champion/Zahorian steroid trial)

*February 8, 1993 (the life and times of Andre the Giant)

*May 13, 2002 (the life story of the most incredible pro wrestling career ever, a look at Lou Thesz, in one of the largest issues of our history)

*January 27, 2003 (part one of the two-part series covering the career and life of The Sheik)

*February 3, 2003 (Part two on The Sheik including thoughts from people who worked with him and where he stands historically)

*March 24, 2003 (history of the WWWF title, inside behind the Sammartino, Backlund and Backlund era)

*April 21, 2003 (history of WWF continues with the expansion nationally, the death of the regional territories and the rise of Hulk Hogan)

*May 12, 2003 (The life and death of Elizabeth and the rise of fall of Lex Luger)

*June 9, 2003 (Part 1 of history of WWF vs. WCW wars and what many say was the greatest year in U.S. wrestling; plus a look at Fred Blassie)

*June 16, 2003 (Freddie Blassie through the eyes of his biggest rivals and friends)

*July 28, 2003 (Part 2 of the history of the WWF vs. WCW war and the plans to make new superstars in the early 90s, what happened, and the night where the three biggest wrestling companies in the world combined for a joint show and what happened)

*August 25, 2003 (2003 Hall of Fame issue with huge profiles on the controversial career of Shawn Michaels, Chris Benoit as well as historical features on Earl Caddock and Francisco Flores)

*September 22, 2003 (Part 3 of the history of the WWF vs WCW war with the seeds that caused the collapse of the industry in the 90s, Zahorian trial, Gulf War controversy, Flair leaves WCW while holding world title and much more)

*October 27, 2003 (The fascinating life of Stu Hart plus the story of Road Warrior Hawk)

*January 19, 2004 (2003 Awards issue)

*February 2, 2004 (History of Toronto wrestling, Jack Tunney life story, Royal Rumble and Battle Royal history)

*February 23, 2004 (History of Guerrero family with Eddy’s win over Brock Lesnar)

*March 1, 2004 (History of WWF continues with the period that brought the company down in early 1992, the mistakes, the real stories and how the business changed)

*March 8, 2004 (History of Wrestlemania, its greatest matches and best and worst shows as voted both by wrestlers and non-wrestlers and Wrestlemania history books)

*July 5, 2004 (A look behind the scenes and Ric Flair’s book and his background with Eric Bischoff and Hulk Hogan)

*July 12, 2004 (A look at more on Ric Flair’s book and his comments on Bruno Sammartino, Bret Hart and Mick Foley)

*August 16, 2004 (History of the Olympians in pro wrestling)

*August 23, 2004 (2004 Hall of Fame issue and biggest issue of the year with huge profiles on Kazushi Sakuraba, Undertaker, Bob Backlund, Masahiro Chono, Ultimo Dragon, Kurt Angle and Tarzan Lopez–this counts as one issue if you are asking for a free issue, but ordered separately, due to size, is $6 in North America and $7 overseas)

*October 4, 2004 (the life and times of Big Bossman; as well as details of the life and times of one of the most influential men world wide in pro wrestling history, Jim Barnett)

*November 15, 2004 (the full story of what happened between Kurt Angle and Daniel Puder, plus coverage of the most important week in the history of TNA)

*January 24, 2005 (2004 Awards issue, Rock and WWE part company)

*March 14, 2005 (the 50 biggest money players in the history of WWF and a look at their Hall of Fame)

*May 9, 2005 (the life and times of Chris Candido)

*June 20, 2005 (The full story behind Paul Heyman and the death of ECW, as well as coverage of One Night Stand, Hardcore Homecoming and behind the scenes of both shows)

*July 18, 2005 (death of Shinya Hashimoto and his records with a look at the fall of New Japan, the Matt Hardy angle, tons of WWE firings, Cornette firing in detail as well as problems of a WWE developmental territory in our biggest news issue of the year which is a double-sized issue and would be $6 on its own and $7 overseas)

*August 24, 2005 (2005 Hall of Fame issue with career profiles of Paul Heyman, HHH and Freebirds plus debut of MMA Hall of Fame)

*September 12, 2005 (History of Mid South Wrestling)

*October 10, 2005 (Life and Times of the Ultimate Warrior)

*November 21, 2005 (Life and Times of Eddy Guerrero and Crusher, double issue $6 on its own and $7 overseas)

*December 5, 2005 (The Eddy Guerrero special issue, double issue $6 on its own, $7 overseas)

*January 9, 2006 (The life and times of Superstar Billy Graham, plus New Year’s Eve 2005 coverage)

*January 16, 2006 (2005 Awards double issue, $6 or $7 overseas)

*April 3, 2006 (Story of Ann Calvello and the history of Roller Derby–many called this the best issue of the Observer ever)

*April 10, 2006 (Behind the scenes at the 2006 Wrestlemania/Hall of Fame week)

*July 24, 2006 (The History of the Von Erichs and World Class Championship Wrestling–the most unreal story ever in wrestling)

*September 4, 2006 (The Rise and Fall of Kurt Angle; 2006 Hall of Fame inductions of Eddie Guerrero, Paul Bowser, Masakatsu Funaki, Aja Kong and Hiroshi Hase including tons of wrestling history around the world from the 20s through the 60s, the evolution of working to not working in Japan, and a look at Guerrero in hindsight, double issue $6 or $7 overseas)

*October 9, 2006 (A look back nine years later at the life and legacy of Brian Pillman with tons of inside information about what made him tick as his real objectives)

*November 15, 2006 (History of WCW part one, Eric Bischoff’s book and how the industry was changed forever)

*November 20, 2006 (History of WCW part two, Why Jim Ross left WCW, How Bischoff changed the company, signing of Hulk Hogan, Beginning of Nitro, Jesse Ventura, Brian Pillman, Chris Jericho and signing Wrestlemania planned celebrity away)

*November 27, 2006 (History of WCW part three, When Bischoff challenged McMahon to fight; Truth and fiction around Bret Hart signing with WCW and why it didn’t click)

*December 6, 2006 (details behind Pride’s offers to sell promotion and Part four of History of WCW part four, Hogan-Goldberg match and why there was no rematch, WCW loses NBC network deal in 1999 and the real reasons the company fell apart)

*January 22, 2007 (2006 Awards issue, double issue $7 on its own, $8 overseas)

*February 14, 2007 (Life and Times of Bam Bigelow)

*March 5, 2007 (WWE begins plans that will change the business)

*March 12, 2007 (Life and Times of Mike Awesome)

*March 19, 2007 (Life and Times of Ernie Ladd)

*April 4, 2007 (Life and Times of Badnews Allen Coage–which many are calling one of the best issues in history)

*July 2, 2007 (Part one of the Benoit double murder-suicide)

*July 5, 2007 (Part two of the Benoit double murder-suicide)

*July 10, 2007 (Part three of the Benoit double murder-suicide)

*July 19, 2007 (Part four of the Benoit double murder-suicide)

*July 23, 2007 (Part five of Benoit double murder-suicide)

*July 25, 2007 (Part six of Benoit double murder-suicide)

*August 15, 2007 (The legend of the God of Japanese wrestling and his influence on MMA, Karl Gotch)

*October 15 (2007 Hall of Fame double issue, $7 on its own, $8 overseas including inductions of The Rock, Tom Packs and the original Strangler Lewis)

*November 12, 2007 (Life and times of Fabulous Moolah and history of U.S. women’s wrestling) .

*December 31, 2007 (History of Ric Flair and the heyday of wrestling at the Greensboro Coliseum)

*January 21, 2008 (2007 Awards issue, double issue $7 on its own, $8 overseas)

*March 17, 2008 (Life and times of Johnny Weaver)

*March 24, 2008 (Life and times of Gary Hart)

*April 10, 2008 (Farewell to Ric Flair; My thoughts, Shawn Michaels talks of Flair’s meaning to him; Hall of Fame; Wrestlemania double issue, $7 on its own, $8 overseas)

*August 11, 2008 (Ric Flair leaves WWE; Updated history of pro wrestlers and MMA fighters who went to the Olympics)

* September 8, 2008 (2008 Hall of Fame double issue, $7 on its own, $8 overseas; part one of Killer Kowalski bio)

* September 15, 2008 (Life and Times of Evan Tanner)

* September 22, 2008 (The amazing career of Killer Kowalski, one of our most in-depth bios)

You can also order any of these issues on their own for $4

in North America or $5 overseas.

We now have available personally autographed copies of Tributes II, our latest book, as well as a DVD that comes with it talking more about the subjects in the book. The book covers the life stories of Lou Thesz, Wahoo McDaniel, Elizabeth, Fred Blassie, Road Warrior Hawk, Andre the Giant, Curt Hennig, Johnny Valentine, Davey Boy Smith, Terry Gordy, Owen Hart, Stu Hart, Gorilla Monsoon, The Sheik and Tim Woods..

To get all of those biographies as back issues of the Observer would be a $60 value today. This is a collection of some of the best Observer articles of the past several years in a hardcover, full-color format that is 239 pages. There is also a foreword by Bret Hart. The book price is $12.95 plus $3.50 for shipping costs in the U.S., $20 for shipping costs to Canada and $25 for shipping costs outside North America. You can order the book the same way you order the newsletter.

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

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

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

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

We also update the Royal Rumble show.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

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

Also in this issue:

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

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

–Return of Canek to Arena Mexico

–CMLL reaction to La Sombra in WWE

–Update on AAA TV in the U.S.

–AAA business notes

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

–Chris Masters talks his time in AAA

–Keiji Muto wrestles and teams with Akebono

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

–Changes in All Japan management

–All Japan and Big Japan announce working agreement

–NOAH opens 2016 and build to the first big show

–Update on New Japan contracts

–Tanahashi vs. Okada update

–Controversy around the return of Yoshiko

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

–Styles’ big matches this week in Europe

–Notes on PWG

–Notes on the death of Wolfman Willie Farkus

–GFW’s second U.K. tour

–Update on Nikita Koloff

–Crockett nostalgia show

–WWC’s first big show of the year

–Grandson of Carolinas legend in college football championship game

–Update on Lucha Underground’s television situation

–Notes on the second Ultima Lucha

–Notes from the weekend Lucha Underground tapings and new direction

–Notes on all the new talent at Lucha Underground

–Notes on the next month of ROH television

–Notes on the next ROH PPV lineup

–Notes on ROH contracts

–Update on Matt Taven knee injury

–Lots of new ROH main events

–Notes on TNA contracts

–Notes on TNA U.K. shows

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

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

–Notes on the next month of TNA television

–Dana White on Georges St-Pierre

–Notes on UFC’s show this week

–Thoughts on Cruz vs. Dillashaw

–New UFC European shows

–B.J. Penn potential return

–UFC fines three fighters for dress code violations

–Update on Ronda Rousey’s acting

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

–New UFC fighters

–Royce Gracie tax issues

–One FC bungles part of its new policy already

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

In the biggest news week in a long time, we’ve got a double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter this week, covering John Cena’s injury, New Japan stars headed to WWE, a major feature looking at the year that past in pro wrestling and MMA and the year coming up, WWE direction for WrestleMania season, Tokyo Dome coverage, Rizin debut coverage, TNA changes and UFC 195.

Our lead story talks about John Cena’s injury and the injury issues in WWE with more notes on the training program being used.  We’ve got all the news regarding wrestlers leaving New Japan, who has been contacted, different roles, the various schedules for different guys, other negotiations, what led to these moves, what New Japan needs to learn from this, how this affects ROH, and other ideas for New Japan to break out of its standard mentality.

We look at UFC in 2016, the success of the women’s division and how easily it could have filed, UFC business review, big fights on the horizon, the state of WWE in 2015 and 2016, different fan bases, rise of NXT, where New Japan has failed on the international scene, plus AAA, CMLL, Bellator, TNA and ROH prospects in 2016.

We’ve got full coverage of New Japan’s Tokyo Dome show, with match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results, plus the big angles, Okada’s prospects as the top star, the next big programs on the horizon, the big show plans for 2016, the Fanstastica Mania tour lineup and thoughts, as well as coverage of New Year’s Dash.

We also look at the changes in this year’s Royal Rumble and scout out the possibilities and big matches on the horizon for Mania, as well as the return of Chris Jericho.

We also have notes on the WWE Network, John Cena talks Peyton Manning and HGH, football coach trying to recruit WWE for Mania, portrayal of Joseph Maroon in the “Concussion” movie, lots of details on new Dwayne Johnson projects, Lesnar’s future schedule, a look at 50/50 booking, Reaction to HHH circumventing his own angle, notes on February NXT shows, more on  WrestleMania plans, Jericho talks current interview style, WWE looking for new stars around the world, Dusty Rhodes tag team tournament, lots of WWE injury updates, Austin TV show news, plus notes on all the weekend house shows with highlights and business.

We’ve got a complete look at the debut of the Rizin promotion, details on the ratings and how it compares to WWE & UFC, the Masato vs. Kid Yamamoto show in competition, boxing in competition, Spike TV numbers, Fedor’s return, the freak show fights and what did and didn’t work on the first two shows.

We also look at UFC 195, with match-by-match coverage, poll results and business notes regarding the show, as well as a look at all the close decisions and why they went the way they did.

We also look at TNA’s debut on Pop TV, the ratings, the title tournament, who was watching, the PPV show this week, the Mike Bennett debut, the James Storm return, the departure of Taryn Terrell and the good and bad of the latest relaunch.

The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: January 11, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Cena out with shoulder injury, New Japan stars to WWE

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

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

Also in this issue:

–Great wrestlers headed to CMLL and ROH

–Big holiday week business

–CMLL iPPV coverage with two hair vs. hair matches

–Latest on Lucha Libre Elite

–Another legend returning to LLE this week

–Another international group negotiating to get on U.S. television

–AAA fan voted awards

–Dragon Gate’s early year shows

–Triple Crown title change and notes on the match

–Japan tournament in February

–New Japan signing new talent and background plus notes on other wrestlers debuting and a new style of show

–Coverage of many big holiday events

–Another woman’s star retires

–Notes on the career of Buddy Wayne

–Notes on huge indie shows coming to the U.K.

–Coverage of the latest PWG show

–Mick Foley’s future

–Michael Landsberg talks about how pro wrestling put Off the Record on the map

–AWA historical get together and Q&A

–Next ROH show

–Kurt Angle appears on major TV show

–Lots of notes from TNA tapings

–Dana White talks future of Holly Holm and Conor McGregor and hints at their next fights

–A look at different matches that will be happening in UFC in the first six months of 2016

–Lots of new UFC matches

–International show expected to be announced by UFC

–Notes on person expected to be CM Punk’s first opponent and where you can see him this week

–Next UFC card

–UFC odds for future big fights

–Lots of new UFC fights and injury updates

–Bellator finalizes first major show of the year

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

A look at the Slammy Awards, business of the show, who watched the show, suggestions made for improving the awards show idea, some history of where it came from and what happened at the show including injury updates leads the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter which is up on the site right now.

We also have a story about both the California commission, doctors, and reps from the Association of Boxing Commissions talking about the problem of weight cutting in MMA as well as all the medical issues involved, win/loss records of bigger vs. small fighters, belief of how many fighters go into fights dehydrated, the dangers of fighting dehydrated, new weight class suggestions, the good and the bad of adding weight classes, the discussion of splitting up the heavyweight division and the ONE organization becomes the first promotion to take drastic steps in this subject with a look at their new regulations.

We also look at the life, career and significance of Lizmark, one of the biggest stars in the history of Lucha Libre, who passed away this past week.  We have his background, how he got into wrestling, his life before wrestling, why he first wore a mask, how he got the name Lizmark, his long run as a constant singles champion or top contender, his induction into the Hall of Fame, his run in the glory days of AAA, Lizmark Jr. and why he fell out of favor in WCW due to loyalty to his father, his biggest rivals, the wrestlers who emulated him and his title history.

We look at what is next for NXT, the upcoming tour dates, reaction to Roman Reigns internally, Notes on the video game, Mauro Ranallo updates, WWE injury updates, John Cena and Dwayne Johnson news, lots of WWE U.K. date business notes, Japan TV update, Two new wrestlers making main roster debut for one tour in January and why.  We also have notes from all the weekend house shows.

We also look at the quest to fight Conor McGregor and what is the right direction to take, plus business notes on UFC’s final show of the year in Orlando, match-by-match coverage and pay records for the show.  We also look at New Japan’s last show of 2015 and the build to the Tokyo Dome card with updates on two matches, a look at the ROH Final Battle show and plans for the anniversary show as well as updates on talent contracts and A.J. Styles, Pro Wrestling NOAH’s last show of the year and a look at their year-long program and the good and bad of it, plus the complete lineup of the debut of the new Rizin promotion this week.

We’ve got a story on the death of Emanuel Yarbrough, a notable early UFC character who went on to pro wrestling and acting, plus have the fan voted Japanese awards and the AXS MMA awards.

We also look at what the PPV numbers say about this year’s Survivor Series and how it did compared to last year.

The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: December 28, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: WWE Slammy Awards, MMA Weight cutting

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@wrestlingobserver.com” target=”_blank”>dave@wrestlingobserver.com

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

We’ve also got the weekly coverage of all the ratings of the major shows, results from the major league events held around the world, and the major TV show rundowns. 
Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: November 9, 1998 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Jesse Ventura wins Minnesota Governor election, WCW trailing WWF, more
Jesse Ventura becomes the Governor of Minnesota, WCW begins trailing WWF, ECW November to Remember recap, plus tons of news.

Also in this issue:

–Surprising match from 25 years ago draws the largest pro wrestling crowd of the week

–CMLL champ drops title he’s held more than four years

–Caristico returns to CMLL and what happened

–Notes on CMLL’s next two iPPV shows

–Update on Rey Mysterio and his contract

–AAA’s next two major shows

–Talent from AAA that has gotten offers to jump

–All Japan announcing new title bouts

–Update on New Japan announcing and the next two shows on New Japan World in English

–New Year’s Eve pro wrestling notes with one of Japan’s legendary feuds back with one participant working with the son of the other

–Atsushi Onita’s 40th anniversary

–Konnan debuts as MMA announcer

–Real attendance and gate for Insane Championship Wrestling big show last month

–Joey Ryan endorsement deal

–Latest on Vince Russo and Jim Cornette

–U.K. star in Japanese TV ad

–Update on major Lucha Underground injury

–Notes on Ultima Lucha 2

–Who is playing the son of Dragon Azteca

–Why one of the top stars of season one isn’t back in season two

–Jack Evans and Angelico talk their WWE offer

–Wrestler threatens legal action against Lucha Underground

–A look at the next several weeks of ROH television

–More on TNA’s next PPV

–Notes on TNA TV

–Notes on Jeff Hardy’s TNA future

–Who is booked for TNA’s UK TV tapings

–Gimmick matches for TNA’s late January tapings

–Update on Mike Tenay in TNA

–Notes on a potential UFC movie

–UFC fighter arrested for assault on bar owner who wouldn’t let her use the bathroom

–Ronda Rousey up for major award

–Lots of new fights

–New twist in Royce Gracie vs. Ken Shamrock storyline

–How future MMA stars did at U.S. wrestling nationals

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.

Conor McGregor winning the UFC featherweight title and the story behind UFC 194 and the path of Roman Reigns to the WWE title are the lead stories in the new double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter with coverage of so many major shows over the past week.

We look at McGregor’s financial  goals, the business of UFC 194 and the records set, early PPV projections, what is next for McGregor, TV viewership numbers in the U.S. and Brazil, , as well as the path of McGregor to being the No. 1 male star in the promotion.  We look at Frankie Edgar as a contender, potential of UFC 200 if Ronda Rousey and Conor McGregor are booked on the same show, the last two PPV shows, Rousey vs. McGregor as draws, Luke Rockhold’s middleweight title win, looking at the Yoel Romero vs. Chris Weidman judging and the future of the middleweight division.

We also look at the path of Roman Reigns to the WWE title, the increased viewership on Raw, where the new viewers came from and how viewership differed from recent weeks.  We look at the reaction to Reigns, and the storylines that led to that reaction.

We’ve also got complete rundowns on WWE TLC, NXT Takeover, as well as all three UFC events, including match-by-match coverage, business notes, star ratings and more.

We also have a look at Mauro Ranallo’s signing with WWE, his background, how the deal came to fruition and the path from announcing pro wrestling on TV while a teenage on national television in  Canada to the WWE 30 years ago, with stops in kickboxing, MMA and boxing in between.

We also have news on a new Takeover special and WrestleMania weekend, WWE week on the USA Network, dates Brock Lesnar is booked, WWE making a deal with Coca Cola, new season of Total Divas, Slammy Awards notes, why it is unlikely Dwayne Johnson will be at WrestleMania, Ronda Rousey and WrestleMania, William Regal injury update, death of Jim Dotson, Daniel Bryan update, offers made to Bryan, Bryan talks WretleMania and bringing back stars from the past, HHH talks NXT, why Raw is three hours and why that isn’t going to change soon, WWE injury updates, NXT touring in 2016, Cena in the movies, Lineup of DVD releases for 2016, how ECW ended up being a financial success, difference in the makeup of Raw and Smackdown viewers and what viewers are more likely to watch both shows, plus we’ve got reports from all the WWE & NXT arena events over the past week with business and overall highlights.

We also look at the complete New Japan Wrestle Kingdom 10 show and other activities in conjunction with New Japan’s signature show of the year.

We also look at the death of Yan Jian Bing from weight cutting and talk about the story that needs to be addressed by the MMA community and commissions

We also have the complete monthly business breakdowns for WWE and TNA when it comes to ratings, attendance, merchandise and other business notes.

The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: December 21, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Conor McGregor wins UFC Featherweight title, Roman Reigns WWE Champion

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@wrestlingobserver.com” target=”_blank”>dave@wrestlingobserver.com

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

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

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

Also in this issue:

–The latest from Arena Mexico

–Update on next AAA big show

–Dragon Gate iPPV notes and unique way to pick a main event

–All Japan having to cutback on business

–Tokyo Dome ticket sales

–A.J. Styles update

–Fantastica Mania ticket sales

–Notes on two wrestlers debuting on 1/3 in New Japan

–One of greatest real woman wrestlers ever officially retires

–Notes on the weekend PWG shows

–Wrestler wins Olympic athlete of the year award

–Update on Nick Aldis after biceps surgery

–Update on legal battles involving Hulk Hogan

–2CW promotion closing up with three big shows

–CZW draws big crowd for cage of death

–Notes on former pro wrestler who was accomplished rodeo star

–Notes on the pro wrestling debut of Rachel Ellering, daughter of Paul Ellering

–Notes on Rey Mysterio’s debut in Lucha Underground

–Notes on five weeks worth of Lucha Underground television

–Lucha Underground builds around unknown star, who gets injured and an update on him and his condition

–Notes on lots of new characters for season two of the promotion and new storylines

–A.J. Styles talks getting ready for ROH show

–Complete ROH lineup

–More on the TNA title tournament 

–Update on the Hardys in TNA

–Update on Kurt Angle in TNA

–TNA looking for new talent to debut on 1/5

–Pop TV talks about its goals for TNA

–TNA star in new Conan movie

–TNA stars win overseas tag team title

–TNA looking for stars from India

–More notes on the fight in the airplane with UFC fans coming to Las Vegas from Ireland

–Rousey blows away Internet numbers in 2015

–Notes on the final UFC show of the year

–Upping the quality of Fight Pass

–Cris Cyborg gives up on cutting to 135

–Lots of new UFC fights

–New storyline involving the Gracie vs. Shamrock fight

–More notes for the debut of Rizin at the end of the month with lots of new fights

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.