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.
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.
– 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
Wichita, Kansas: – World Heavyweight Champion Orville Brown beat Lew Newman in 2 out of 3 falls – Don McIntyre beat Harry Cohen in a Hindu mud match – Barney Bernard and Ralph Garibaldi went to a 30 minute draw
1949
Kansas City, Kansas: – Tarzan Kowalski defeated Jim Wright in 2 out of 3 falls – Joe Pazandak defeated Herman Von Doyle in 2 out of 3 falls
1961
Chicago, Illinois: – “Nature Boy” Buddy Rogers defeated Pat O’Connor to win the NWA (National Wrestling Alliance) World Heavyweight Championship
1967
Milwaukee, Wisconsin: – AWA Tag Team Champions Larry Hennig & Harley Race beat Dick the Bruiser & the Crusher in 2 out of 3 falls – Rene Goulet (sub Lou Thesz) beat Chris Markoff by countout – Big K (sub Ernie Ladd) beat Moose Cholak by dq – Dale Lewis drew Mitsu Arakawa
1970
Chicago, Illinois – Dick the Bruiser & the Crusher & Ernie Ladd beat Mad Dog Vachon & Butcher Vachon & Blackjack Lanza – Baron Von Raschke beat Red Bastien – Mitsu Arakawa beat Paul Christy – Pepper Gomez beat Bob Windham
1973
Chicago, Illinois: – AWA Tag Team Champions Nick Bockwinkel & Ray Stevens beat Dick the Bruiser & the Crusher – Ernie Ladd no contest with Wahoo McDaniel – Sailor Art Thomas drew Jimmy Valiant – Baron Von Raschke beat Bull Bullinski
1978
St. Paul, Minnesota: – Verne Gagne beat AWA Champion Nick Bockwinkel dq – Pat Patterson & Ray Stevens beat Evan Johnson & Steve Olsonoski – Jim Brunzell beat Bob Orton Jr – Super Destroyer Mark II beat Rufus R Jones
1979
Chicago, Illinois: – Andre The Giant beat AWA Champion Nick Bockwinkel dq – Dick The Bruiser beat King Kong Brody by countout – Wilbur Snyder drew Bobby Duncum – Greg Gagne & Billy Robinson beat Pat Patterson & Ray Stevens – Bobo Brazil beat Paul Christy by dq – Steve Regal drew Jesse Ventura
Portland, Oregon: – Stan Stasiak defeated Roddy Piper for the NWA Pacific Northwest Heavyweight Title
1985
Orlando, Florida: – Hercules Hernandez defeated Hector Guerrero for the Florida State Heavyweight Title
1987
Minneapolis, Minnesota: – AWA Champion Curt Hennig beat Greg Gagne dq – AWA Tag Team Champions Boris Zhukov & Soldat Ustinov beat Wahoo McDaniel & DJ Peterson – In a Taped Fist match; Scott Ledoux beat Larry Zbyszko by count out – Tommy Rich beat Mr Magnificent Kevin Kelly – Original Midnight Express beat Nick Kiniski & JT Southern by dq
2003
– Gail Kim won a Battle Royal for the WWE Women’s Title
2008
– CM Punk defeated Edge to win the WWE World championship
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.
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 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.
Also in this issue:
Update on the health issues involving former CMLL headliner Thunder
Notes for this week’s CMLL iPPV show with lineup
How the New Japan stars did this week at Arena Mexico
Mascara Dorada after being in the WWE tournament
Promotion falling apart due to financial issues and several wrestlers contracts not being renewed
Update on Dragon Gate’s biggest show of the year
New Japan big show this week
Update on the Super J Cup for 2016
New Japan booking changes
Notes from New Japan’s big show of the week
Small groups doing angles that sold out Korakuen Hall
The most disgusting promotional tactic of 2016
Update on George Steele
PWG Battle of Los Angeles news
Chyna Memorial Service news
Legendary pro wrestling announced big health issue
Future of Roderick Strong
Future of Bill Goldberg
Vader vs. Will Ospreay
Tommy Dreamer’s promotion hits Australia
Battle of legends draws big crowd
Ex-WWE stars working on top in Puerto Rico
New Lucha Underground signing
Notes on ROH TV tapings for the next month
A look at matches planned for the next ROH TV tapings and a PPV match
TNA personality gets radio show
TNA has issues with U.K. promoters
Vince Russo admits to burying TNA with Pop TV
Lorenzo Fertitta with new job
Update on UFC sale talk
Campbell McLaren talks value of UFC and trying to buy it
More on C.M. Punk’s UFC debut
UFC nominations for ESPY awards
UFC owner dividends at the end of 2014 and 2015
Dan Severn writes autobiography
Tons of new UFC fights
B.J. Penn’s suspension update
Another legend wants Michael Bisping
Urijah Faber talks future
Coverage of Bellator Dynamite
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– Show opens with KA and Gallows video, bashing the Usos.
Curtis Axel vs Titus O Neil
Axel bails from ring twice. Axel runs wild for a bit, Titus counters does his power spot. Titus wins via pop up power bomb.
Baron Corbin vs Dolph Ziggler
Crowd really into Ziggler. Corbin rolls out. After about 3 minutes of this, Ziggler attacks Corbin on the outside and rolls him in to get the match going. Corbin knees Ziggler for him to get the advantage for now. Ziggler counters Corbin does his comeback and neckbrealer into a 2 count. Ziggler tries for a clothesline and gets countered, Corbin for a 2 count. Ziggler hits famouser for a near fall. Corbin tries for End of Days, Ziggler hits super kick, crowd popped for that. Ziggler goes to the top, Corbin hits the ropes and End of Days for the win.
Gallows & Karl Anderson vs The Usos
As expected heavy Polynesian crowd, so the Usos got a very big pop. Usos get on offense, clothesline both KA and Gallows outside. Gallows hits one of the Usos against the ring post, almost gets counted out. The other Uso gets the hot tag, runs wild on KA. Usos win via a splash on Anderson.
NXT Women’s Champion Asuka vs. Natalya
Starting off with Nattie and Asuka doing Mat wrestling. Very shoots style match so far, crowd seems confused. Asuka does the hip thingy twice, Nattie gets on the outside does a Suplex on the floor. Nattie with the surfboard. Asuka hits a dropkick and they are both down. Nattie went for the sharpshooter, Asuka counters into Anklelock. Asuka hits her Asuka combination then gets Nattie into the Asuka lock for the win. After working a MMA hybrid match for the first few minutes, crowd got back into it when they went back into the wrestling,
WWE Tag Team Champions The New Day vs The Vaudevillians
Aiden English playing heel to start off. Woods cuts him off, hurricanrana for a near fall. English gets the tag in, Big E gets in as well. Big E does some dancing, crowd is into that. English gets a tag in beats down on woods. Big E gets the hit tag and starts belly to belly suplexing both guys. Vaudevillains hit the whirling dervish for a 2 count. Big E gets in and him and Xavier hit an assisted Big Ending for the win.
WWE Women’s Champion Becky Lynch vs Charlotte
Crowd kinda split to start off, or that they like to woo… Starting off slow. Charlotte does the flair bump over the ropes and takes a powder to the outside. Charlotte kicks on the inside to take control. Charlotte in control for a while, Becky nits a electric chair counter into the turnbuckle. Becky firing back up, T bone Suplex for a near fall. Becky tries the Disarmer, Charlotte counters with the armbar power bomb spot. Charlotte misses a moonsault, Becky gets the Disarmer Charlotte has the rope break. Charlotte gets the figure 8 for the win.
Shinsuke Nakamura vs Kevin Owens
Owens beats down Nakamura right from the beginning. About half the crowd knows who Nakamura is. Owens mocks Nakamura’s corner stomp thingy. Crowd starts doing dueling Nakamura/Kevin Owens chants. Owens going to chinlock city. Owens taking the majority of the match until Shinsuke hits a counter wheel kick. Nakamura gets his corner kick in followed by the top of the rope knees. Owens hits a super kick for the near fall. Owens does a superplex from the top rope and crowd finally wakes up. Owens tries for a Senton, Shinsuke gets his knees up and hits a counter Knee for a near fall. Owens tries for the powerbomb, Shinsuke hits the Tiger Suplex and Kinshasa for the win.
WWE Champion Dean Ambrose vs. AJ Styles vs Chris Jericho vs Seth Rollins
Jericho cuts promo on the crowd. Crowd calls Jericho a mahu, he thinks it’s great. Rollins gets a nice pop, Ambrose got a great pop. Crowd wants Jericho to take scarf off, but he refuses. Crowd chants Mahu at him. AJ and Ambrose start off the match, AJ takes a powder, Jericho comes in. Kinda standard 4 way layout. Everyone starts ganging up on Ambrose. Jericho tried to steal pin, Ambrose goes out. Other 3 are fighting, then Rollins and Styles take out Jericho. AJ takes out Rollins and Jericho gets back in, tries for the walls of Jericho and missed. AJ cuts him off, AJ hits forearm to Jericho, Rollins hits suicide dive, Ambrose gets a top rope Elbow to all of them.
They all go for the super-duper plex. Crowd starts chanting “this is awesome” Jericho misses codebreaker, Ambrose tries for the Nigel clothesline, Jericho connects with the Codebreaker for a nearfall. Rollins comes back in hits AJ for falcon arrow for a two count. AJ gets the calf crusher on Seth and Jericho gets walls onto Dean for a double submission spot. Rollins hits Pedigree on Jericho, Ambrose hits the Nigel clothesline on Seth and Ambrose does dirty deeds on AJ for the clean pin.
Two people have been charged in connection with the hit and run homicide of former UFC fighter Ryan Jimmo, Edmonton police posted on their website Wednesday.
Anthony Getschel, 23, was charged with second degree murder, criminal negligence causing death and fail to stop at scene of accident involving death. Jordan Wagner, 21, is charged with accessory after the fact to murder.
Edmonton police also stated that the suspects did not know Jimmo and that a brief arguement had taken place shortly before the hit and run took place.
Jimmo, 34, last fought in UFC in May 2015, losing to Francimar Barroso and hadn’t fought since.
The road to Ultima Lucha Dos has been paved over the past few weeks, and with that show one week away, the card should take shape tonight. We see the death and rebirth of Mil Muertes and last week’s Rey vs. Puma challenge. Vamp says that he’s half out of his mind with excitement over Ultima Lucha Dos.
Striker says that the LU version of the Super Friends of Drago, Fenix, and Aerostar face Mundo, PJ Black, and Jack Evans tonight while Prince Puma faces his other former Trios Championship partner El Dragon Azteca. Next week’s show is run down and we’ll get Mil Muertes vs. King Cuerno to start things off tonight. Cuerno flexes his pecs to the “Cuerno, Cuerno!” chant. Mil shoves the cameraman away and we’re underway.
King Cuerno vs. Mil Muertes
Mil drops down and goes for a tiltawhirl, but Mil hits a big kick to the gut and a spear to the spine. Mil stomps the groinal region, or as Vamp says “he stomped him right in the balls!”. Cuerno hits a boot, but eats a big lariat for 2. Mil hits a huge swinging chokeslam ala The Giant for 2. Mil is sent to the floor and eats a baseball slide and then the Arrow of Death hits! Ref is taken out with it and Cuerno grabs a chair and hits him in the head, but it’s no-sold and Mil punches his lights out!
Mil slams the back with a chair and he sets the chair up in the corner. Cuerno avoids a corner spear and Mil hits the chair and eats a schoolboy with the ropes held to give Cuerno the win. This was short, but fantastic while it lasted.
Dario meets with Taya and Ivelisse and puts them over for being tough – but says there can only be one baddest bitch in the building. At Ultima Lucha, they will determine who deserves that title most. Catrina walks in and wishes Ivie luck and she wants a rematch against Cuerno for the show. He says that she took over his temple, took over his office, tried to destroy his brother and says that their issue over a dented casket involves a funeral home – not him.
Catrina says they want a death match and Dario says he hates her – but she knows what to say to excite him, so it’s on and then she disappears. Puma walks down and then Rey brings Azteca down with him.
Prince Puma vs. El Dragon Azteca Jr.
Puma chops him and we get a tumbling exchange before a sunset flip leads to spinning and a legsweep gets 1. Back and forth armdrags lead a staredown. They shake, but Puma won’t let go – so Azteca hits a pair of chops and slaps him. Puma slides over Azteca, who hops up and kicks him before eating a snake eyes against the post.
This is a crazy-fast match – holy smokes! Puma gets a dueling chant and lands a European uppercut before eating a pop-up springboard rana. Puma gets crotched and chops him on top before hitting a springboard rana for 2. Puma hits a forearm shiver and then eats a running forearm from Azteca. Azteca hits a DDTJ for 2.
They exchange waistlocks and Puma traps him in the corner and hits a pop-up blue thunder bomb into a Northern Lights and then into a brainbuster for 2! Puma goes for the 630, but takes too long and Azteca crotches him up top. Azteca hits a super victory roll for 2! Azteca flows through a missed 450 but eats a belly to belly into the buckle! A spinning Benadryller gets 2!
A corner hesitation dropkick hits for Puma, leading to the 630 as he stares at Rey and gets the win. This was fantastic and easily Azteca’s best match to date. Puma says that will be Rey next week and slaps him.
Cage, Texano, The Mack, and Son of Havoc are mid-ring with Dario. He says that he feels like a kid on Christmas and it’s time for one of them to get a gift from him for Ultima Lucha Dos. He says they will be entered into the Unique Opportunity Tournament for a Unique Opportunity because they have a shot at a unique opportunity! The winner gets a Unique Opportunity and he tells them to rest up because their match is next! Or not….they brawl and Cage hits a big lariat on Texano on the apron.
This was poorly explained, but amusing thanks to Dario. Ultima Lucha Dos’ card is recapped, with everything run through so far along with the Gift of the Gods Title match. Matanza’s path of rage is recapped and we see a rundown of his issues with Pentagon Jr. Fenix comes out in new orange and black gear that looks slick. Mundo comes out and Vamp marks out over Mundo’s jacket and talks about how he helped Mundo put on his headband.
Fenix vs. Johnny Mundo
Fenix slaps Mundo and gets a standing moonsault for 1. Mundo’s basement knee strike gets 2 before a set of mounted forearms. Fenix machine gun chops him before cutting him out and then running chopping him. Fenix runs into a C4 for 2. Mundo chinlocks him, but eats knees. Mundo hits a hard spinebuster for 2. Mundo grinds his boot into the face – blocking the ref’s view from Taya choking him.
Fenix flips onto them while a dueling Lucha/Let’s Go Fenix chant breaks out. Fenix hits a diving chop to the fallen Mundo before hitting a big boot and a chest chop before a jumping Yakuza kick in the corner! A sunset flip powerbomb gets 2 for Fenix!
Taya holds Fenix up and he gets kicked – but lands on his feet before a Moonlight Drive gets 2. Fenix avoids the End of the World and lands a palm strike before a C4 off the top – but Taya has the ref distracted. Mundo grabs a Trios Title hits Fenix with it for the win – marking the first time this decade that a belt shot ends a match. I love that – it’s such a cliche for a nearfall now, and I like seeing it actually get a win so it matters again.
PJ and Evans come down to celebrate and play air guitar while Vamp describes Taya in a fairly unfattering manner. Drago and Aerostar come down, and then Ivie comes down to battle Taya. The faces clear the ring and we hear that Ultima Lucha Dos will be a three week event that starts next week.
On Wednesday, Podcast One confirmed what we had reported months ago: the creation of “The Jericho Network” for the growing media company.
Chris Jericho will have an audio network that will cover wrestling, music, paranormal activity, and pop culture with various regular hosts. He also announced today that Charles “Konnan” Ashenoff will be his first regular host when the network debuts.
All shows will be available at PodcastOne.com, their app, iTunes, and wherever else you can download their podcasts.
“I’m stoked to bring some of the most talented, interesting and hilariously ridiculous hosts to PodcastOne via The Jericho Network,” said Jericho. “My overall plan is for TJN to be an extension of the diverse array of subjects and guests I already feature on Talk is Jericho twice a week. Get ready to be amazed, amused, and entertained by all the hosts and programs that will be added to TJN over the upcoming months, and don’t forget to wear a helmet.”
The 26th annual G-1 Climax tournament which, in the last few years, has gained more international interest as the period with a large percentage of what will be the year’s best matches, was officially announced this past week.
