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  • Daily Update: Awesome Kong released, new HGH test, more WWE cuts

    TNA Released Awesome Kong

    Due to a physical altercation with Reby Sky, Awesome Kong has been released from TNA.  According to sources in TNA, the argument stemmed from issues the two had over the last few years.  Kong got mad at Hardy for dressing in the womens’ dressing room. Kong wanted her to apologize.  She left, and Kong went after her and had to be restrained.

    Ryan Satin of Pro Wrestling Sheet reported that allegedly, what escalated the situation to a physical confrontation was Hardy calling Stevens a “f**king maniac.”  Whatever the truth behind it all, it ends with Awesome Kong no longer working for TNA.

    A statement from TNA:

    “We conducted an investigation and determined releasing Awesome Kong is the appropriate action in this case,” said TNA Executive Vice President of Talent Relations and Television John Gaburick. “Kong has been a great contributor to TNA and helped solidify the Knockouts as the best female division in professional wrestling. We thank her and wish her well.”

    WWE has a full schedule for events this weekend.  We’ll be looking for reports on Friday from the WWE house show in Calgary (Kane vs. Bray Wyatt plus Wyatt Family, Dean Ambrose, Chris Jericho, Dudleys, Paige and Natalya) and NXT shows in Nashville and Lakeland, FL.

    NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING AT 9 P.M. FRIDAY NIGHT ON AXS TV

    CMLL LIVE FROM ARENA MEXICO ON FRIDAY NIGHT AT 9:30 P.M. EASTERN AT www.ClaroSports.com

    LEGACY FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS ON FRIDAY NIGHT IN HINCKLEY, MINN. ON AXS TV AT 10 P.M. EASTERN

    R’Mandell Cameron vs. Derek Getzel

    Kuchlong Kuchlong vs Nate Richardson

    Chase Waldon vs. Justin  Winkels-Comparetto

    Antonio Trocoli vs. Jacob Volkmann

    Brock Larson vs. Travis Coyle

    Ricardo Lucas Ramos vs. Manuel Vazquez for the vacant bantamweight title

    Saturday has WWE shows in San Jose (Roman Reigns vs. Rusev, Brock Lesnar vs. Alberto Del Rio plus A.J. Styles, New Day, Usos and Big Show), Penticiton, BC (Kane vs. Bray Wyatt plus Wyatt Family, Dean Ambrose, Chris Jericho, Dudleys, Paige and Natalya) and NXT shows in Indianapolis and Bartow, FL.  ROH will be doing a major TV taping in Nashville at the Municipal Auditorium on Saturday night featuring the semifinals and finals of the Top Prospect tournament, a seven team gauntlet for a future tag team title shot with Young Bucks, Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly, Trent Baretta & Rocky Romero and four other teams, Briscoes vs. ACH & Alex Shelley, Dalton Castle vs Christopher Daniels, Adam Cole vs. Matt Sydal plus Jay Lethal, Roderick Strong, War Machine, Frankie Kazarian, Cedric Alexander, Moose, B.J. Whitmer, Adam Page, Caprice Coleman, Will Ferrera, Cheeseburger, ODB Amber Gallows, Mandy Leon, Veda Scott, Taeler Hendrix, Kelly Klein, Hania the Huntress and Sumie Sakai.

    UFC ON SATURDAY NIGHT ON FS 1 FROM THE MGM GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

    Fight Pass at 7 p.m. Eastern

    Arten Lobov vs. Alex White

    Mike Jackson vs. Mickey Gall – winner to face C.M. Punk in June

    FS 1 at 8 p.m.

    Noad Lahat vs. Diego Rivas

    Ray Borg vs. Justin Scoggins

    Damian Grabowski vs. Derrick Lewis

    K.J. Noons vs. Josh Burkman

    Mike Pyle vs. Sean Spencer

    Misha Cirkunov vs. Alex Nicholson

    Joseph Benavidez vs. Zach Makovsky

    Rafael Feijao Cavalcante vs. Ovince Saint Preux

    Jared Rosholt vs. Roy Nelson

    Johny Hendricks vs. Stephen Thompson

    WWE has only one show on Sunday, from Abbotsford, BC (Roman Reigns vs. Rusev).

    Raw will be Monday in Seattle.  Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman are scheduled on the show.

    Smackdown and Main Event will be taped on Tuesday in Portland, OR.  Chris Jericho vs. A.J. Styles is on the show.

    If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our new 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!

    Figure Four Weekly

    Figure Four Weekly 1/18/2016: Gawker’s motion to dismiss Hulk Hogan lawsuit denied
    Gawker’s motion to dismiss the Hulk Hogan sex tape lawsuit is denied, plus news and notes

    Wrestling Observer Newsletter

    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, and updates on the situation. The most detailed coverage of the last month of Lucha Underground’s second season, backstage news, season three, lots of business notes.  Full coverage of all the Ultima Lucha 2 matches and direction. Nakamura’s final day with NJPW, where Nakamura and New Japan go now, his background and building the IC title, the next two New Japan PPV shows to this weekend’s biggest event.

    Fast Lane and WrestleMania, what’s up with Undertaker, WWE injury updates, the 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, New WWE Network series based on wrestling matches, new WWE movie, WWE’s tour of Germany this coming week, more on The Rock’s segment on Raw.

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

    A huge look at the life and career of Archie “The Stomper” Gouldie, one of the most memorable wrestling characters of his generation, 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. 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 , what’s next for the winners, thoughts on Sage Northcutt, as well as business notes on the show and match-by-match coverage.

    PLUS MUCH MORE! CLICK HERE FOR A FULL WRESTLING OBSERVER PREVIEW

    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

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    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.

    FRIDAY UPDATE

    – In addition to Bull Dempsey being cut from NXT earlier today, Storm Wrestling Academy alum Sylvester LeFort (the former French Stallion from World Of Hurt and a longtime favorite of this site), Marcus Louis and Oscar Vasquez were also also cut from NXT Friday. LeFort tweeted a picture of himself, Louis and Dempsey saying “Thank you brothers”.

    – Kevin Eck remembers Axl Rotten who passed away yesterday at the age of 44.  

    – In even more injury news, although not a WWE injury for once, Davey Richards has an ACL injury.  That certainly will keep him out of in-ring action for the foreseeable future.

    – Jeremy Botter is reporting on his Twitter account that Travis Tygart of the USADA told him that they have been using a new HGH test for about 2 months that can detect HGH use within 21 days. The previous test could only detect its use within hours.

    WWE

    UFC/MMA

    • Also, on the Twittersphere, Scott Jorgenson posted these 2 words “Free Agent”.  So, it seems he has been released from his UFC contract.  Jorgensen has been with the company since they absorbed WEC at the end of 2010 and had a record of 4-8 in 12 fight there, having lost 6 of his last 7. 
    • Fight Network will air the live UFC Fight Night: Hendricks vs. Thompson prelims in Canada at 8 p.m. ET. The main card airs live on TSN1 and TSN5 at 10 p.m. ET.
    • Bellator has added Goiti Yamauchi vs Bubba Jenkins to Bellator 151.  Already on the card is Michael Page vs Fernando Gonzalez and the main-event Joe Warren vs Darrion Caldwell.  The event will take place on March 4th in Thackerville, Oklahoma and broadcast on Spike TV.
    • ONE Championships announced their next event for Feb 20th in Jakarta, Indonesia. Main event will be Rafael Silva (40-15) against Luis Santos (61-9-1). Silva was scheduled to fight for a British promotion on the same day so I guess that fight is off. Santos had a no contest against Ben Askren last year and then missed weight for their rematch. According to the press release, the fight will take place at the same Welterweight class that Santos last missed weight at, although Silva usually fights at middleweight.
    • Jake Shields is not happy with WSOF for pulling him from a scheduled fight for their vacant 170 lb title. Shields had lost a fight with Rousimar Palhares for the title and was scheduled to fight Jon Fitch for the same belt after Palhares was suspended for 2 years and stripped of the belt. Fitch is now scheduled to face Joao Zeferino for the belt. Zeferino recently fought in their Lightweight tourney, losing in the tournament final to Brian Foster, which apparently qualifies him for a shot at the 170 lb title in the company that employs Chael Sonnen. The fight takes place in April but WSOF has yet to announce a date or location.
    • Former Pride and Elite XC star Charles “Krazy Horse” Bennett returns to action tomorrow on GFL.TV show available on iPPV against Terrell Hobbs on a show called Elite Warrior Challenge 9 : Takeover. Former TUF finalist Matt Van Buren faces Derrick Weaver in the show’s main event

    MISC

    • Sports Cards & Collectibles – Jimmy Hart (wrestling icon and singer from the 1960s band The Gentrys) will sign during two of our spring dates in May including the Frontier Field show (on the 14th from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. and NOT the 15th as previously noted).   
    • On July 24th, 2016 at 5pm – Smash Wrestling and Chikara collide for one incredible night of action!
    • Inside The Rope Live & UNCENSORED! with SCOTT STEINER: Monday  21st March – The Garage, Highbury, LONDON; Tuesday 22nd March – The Comedy Store, MANCHESTER; Wednesday 23rd March – The Classic Grand, GLASGOW; Thursday 24th March – The Empire, BELFAST;
    • Highspots Wrestling Network, a division of Highspots.com, a recently added a channel to the Roku. They are offering a free 7 day trial at Highspots Wrestling Network

    ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY: Daily pro wrestling history (02/05): Andre pins Hogan to win WWF Title; title held up

  • Daily pro wrestling history (02/05): Andre pins Hogan to win WWF Title; title held up

    1935

    St. Louis, Missouri:
    – Warren Bockwinkel and Lou Thesz wrestled to a draw

    1937

    Columbus, Ohio:
    – Ray Steele defeated Everett Marshall by reverse decision to win the Ohio Midwest Wrestling Association World Heavyweight Title

    1959

    Regina, Saskatchewan:
    – George and Sandy Scott defeated Maurice and Paul Vachon to win the vacant Stampede International Tag Team Titles

    1963

    Houston, Texas:
    – Rip Hawk and Rock Hunter defeated Bull Curry and Lucas Pertano for the Texas NWA World Tag Team Titles

    1965

    Macon, Georgia:
    – The Mysterios Medics defeated Tony Marino and Joe Scarpa (Chief Jay Strongbow) to win the vacant Georgia NWA Southern Tag Team Titles  in a tournament final 

    1970

    Osaka, Japan:
    – AWA Champion Verne Gagne dcor Shozo “Strong” Kobayashi in 3rd fall
    – Mighty Inoue & Takeshi Oiso & Thunder Sugiyama beat Michael Nador & Quasimodo & Monster Roussimoff (Andre the Giant)
    – Great Kusatsu beat Bad Boy Shields

    1971

    Atlanta, Georgia:
    – El Mongol defeated Nick Bockwinkel to win the vacant NWA Georgia Title in a tournament final 

    1972

    Akron, Ohio:
    – Ernie Ladd defeated Bulldog Brower to become the first Buffalo/Ohio NWA North American Heavyweight Champion 

    1975

    San Antonio, Texas:
    – Giant Baba and Jumbo Tsuruta defeated Dory Funk, Jr. and Terry Funk for the NWA International Tag Team Titles

    Nashville, Tennessee:
    – Luke Graham defeated Don Kent to win the NWA Mid-America Heavyweight Title

    Miami Beach, Florida:
    – Lights Out Match: Dick Slater defeated Jos LeDuc 
    – Florida Title: Bill Watts defeated Dick Murdoch by dq 
    – Southern Title: Mongolian Stomper defeated Dominic DeNucci 
    – Bob Roop defeated Tony Parisi 
    – Harley Race defeated Tony Charles 
    – Pat Barrett drew Jim Dillon 
    – Johnny Weaver defeated Baron Scicluna 
    – Bob Armstrong & Mike Graham defeated Mitsu Yoshida & Hiro Matsuda

    1976

    Kansas City, Kansas:
    – Ron Bass & Dutch Mantell defeated Bob Geigel & Akio Sato
    – Bob Brown fought Pat O’Connor to a double count out
    – Mike George defeated Ed Wiskoski in three falls

    1978

    Toronto, Ontario, Canada:
    – Nick Bockwinkle retained the A.W.A. title by defeating Chief Jay Strongbow 
    – Ken Patera and Dusty Rhodes were both counted out of the ring 
    – Chief Peter Miavia was disqualified for throwing Angelo Mosca over the top rope
    – Stan Stasiak drew Waldo von Erich
    – Dewey Robertson and Billy Robinson beat Chris Tolos and and Dan Johnston

    1981

    Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada:
    – Nick Bockwinkel beat AWA Champion Verne Gagne dq
    – AWA Tag Team Champions Adrian Adonis & Jesse Ventura beat Greg Gagne & Jim Brunzell
    – Angelo Mosca ddq John Studd
    – Ricky Hunter beat Curt Hennig
    – Tito Santana beat Steve Regal
    – Brad Rheingans drew Evan Johnson

    1985

    Houston, Texas:
    – Cage match: Rock & Roll Express beat Hector & Chavo Guerrero
    – Taped Fist match: Hacksaw Duggan beat Ted Dibiase
    – Kerry Von Erich beat Gino Hernandez
    – Iceman Parsons beat Hercules Hernandez
    – Butch Reed beat Steve Williams
    – AWA Tag Team Champions Road Warriors beat Terry Taylor & Brad Armstrong
    – Jake Roberts beat Tim Horner
    – Tom Prichard beat Jack Victory

    1986

    Sapporo, Japan:
    – Riki Choshu and Yoshiaki Yatsu won the NWA International Tag Team Title from Genichiro Tenryu and Jumbo Tsuruta 

    1987

    Tokyo, Japan:
    – Genichiro Tenryu and Jumbo Tsuruta defeated Riki Choshu and Yoshiaki Yatsu for the NWA International Tag Team Titles

    Memphis, Tennessee:
    – Tarzan Goto and Akio Sato defeated Badd Company (Paul Diamond and Pat Tanaka) to win the Continental Wrestling Association International Tag Team Titles

    1988

    Main Event:
    Indianapolis, Indiana:
    – Andre the Giant pinned Hulk Hogan to win the WWF World Title (title was later declared vacant and set up the Wrestlemania tournament)
    – Randy Savage (with Miss Elizabeth) defeated WWF Intercontinental Champion The Honky Tonk Man (with Jimmy Hart and Peggy Sue) by countout

    1993

    Dallas, Texas:
    – Stevie Ray defeated Rod Price for the Global Wrestling Federation North American Heavyweight Title

    1994

    Night the Line was Crossed: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania:
    – In a No Rules match, The Public Enemy (Rocco Rock and Johnny Grunge) defeated The Bruise Brothers (Ron and Don Harris)
    – Jimmy Snuka pinned Tommy Dreamer.  
    – Non title: The Sheik and Pat Tanaka defeated ECW Tag Team Champions Kevin Sullivan and The Tazmaniac
    – In a three-way dance, ECW Heavyweight Champion Terry Funk, ECW Television Champion Sabu and Shane Douglas fought to a 60-minute draw

    1999

    Mexico City, Mexico:
    – Negro Casas and El Hijo del Santo defeated Bestia Salvaje and Scorpio, Jr. by disqualification to win the CMLL World Tag Team Titles 

    2001 

    Tupelo, Mississippi:
    – Rick Steiner defeated WCW United States Heavyweight Champion Shane Douglas to win the title

    2002

    Los Angeles, California:
    -Maven defeated WWF Hardcore Champion The Undertaker to win the title 

    2005 

    Muscatine, Iowa:
    – Abyss defeated Jimmy Jacobs to win the NWA Iowa Heavyweight Title 

    Wayne, New Jersey:
    – The Solution (Havok and Papadon) defeated America’s Most Wanted (Chris Harris and James Storm) for the NWA Cyberspace Tag Team Title 

    2005

    Tucosn, Airzona:
    – Erik Watts defeated Diamond Dallas Page to win the vacant AWA Superstars International Heavyweight Title

  • NXT Memphis, TN, results: a crooning Finn Balor defends against Baron Corbin

    Submitted by Adam Kirby from the sold-out Minglewood Hall in Memphis, TN

    Asuka over Emma

    Solid back and forth with everyone over with the crowd which has been the case for every match. Crowd is electric for NXT’s first time in Memphis.

    American Alpha over Blake and Murphy

    Another very solid and competitive match. Already this show feels different from last Fall’s show in Nashville. This feels more like an ROH house show than a WWE house show, which the Nashville show in October felt like.

    Alexa Bliss over Billie Kay

    Not much here. Alexa worked over Billie Kay’s arm only to beat her with the sparkle splash. Alexa has definitely grown as an in-ring worker and had pretty fun crowd interactions. Alexa had most of the offense here and this was felt like a definite cool down match.

    Samoa Joe over Sami Zayn

    This continues the theme of the night of very competitive back and forth matches. Samoa Joe wins with the Coquina Clutch. Afterwards, extends a hand to Zayn only to flip him off instead. Very fun but short.  Ready to see their next two matches on TV.

    – Intermission. Dasha Fuentes is very good in her role tonight as announcer/time keeper. I’m impressed. Maybe it’s just because I was right behind her, but she was as into it as the wrestlers and ref. Great job.

    NXT Tag Team Champions Dash and Dawson over Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa

    Maybe the worst match of the show. Fell apart at the end with nobody knowing who was legal. Very much a whatever match. Great crowd interaction though.

    NXT Women’s Champion Bayley over Nia Jax

    Bayley hit the Bayley to Belly after a throw into an exposed turnbuckle. Good match, never quite reached the heights of their Takeover London match, but played off of that match with Bayley repeatedly going for the guillotine. Crowd was very into it.

    NXT Champion Finn Balor over Baron Corbin

    Decent and competitive match with Corbin controlling most of it. This guy was constantly getting boos and jeers about how much he sucks or can’t wrestle or is going bald. Constant interaction with all the shit talkers in the crowd. Match went outside with Balor hitting the dropkick into the barricade and then rolling Corbin into the ring for the Coup de Grace.  Balor finished the show with a rendition of “Walking in Memphis”  about going to the top rope and driving his feet into Baron’s throat.

    Very fun show with a lot of good and interesting work up and down the card from everyone involved. Definitely catch the Nashville and Indiana shows this weekend if you can.

  • WWE releases Bull Dempsey, hires AfterBuzz TV panelist

    WWE has hired new talent, but there is at least one departure as well in the last day.

    Bull Dempsey (James Smith) was released Friday, confirming via Twitter. “It’s been real @WWENXT.  Amazing group of coaches and coworkers and a helluva boss.  Thank you for the opportunity @TripleH.  See ya down the road.  That being said, I’m available for bookings, appearances, birthdays, bar mitzvahs and everything in between.” He also gave a Gmail address where he’s now taking bookings.

    Dempsey had gotten a push on NXT TV in the past, portrayed as a tough guy and then as a comedy figure, making fun of his weight issues. He was an audience favorite, but you could see they had lost interest in pushing him in recent months, similar to what happened with Sami Callihan before being let go.

    The new hire is Cathy Kelley, 27, who is the latest person from Maria Menounos’ AfterBuzz network to be hired by WWE following Ryan Katz, an NXT producer, and Daria Berenato, who came from Tough Enough and was the first member of last season’s cast to be put in live matches.  She has wrestling experience as an interviewer of the Championship Wrestling from Hollywood television show.

  • UFC Fight Night 82: Hendricks vs. Thompson weigh-in results and live video

    Welcome to F4WOnline.com’s live coverage of the UFC Fight Night 82: Hendricks vs. Thompson weigh-ins from the Grand Ballroom at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. The fighters will hit the scale at 7 PM eastern time. The card airs on Saturday with the main card on FOX Sports 1 at 10 PM eastern time. Preliminary card action kicks off at 7 PM eastern time on UFC Fight Pass before heading over to FOX Sports 1 at 8 PM eastern time with additional preliminary bouts. This event was originally scheduled to be UFC 196 headlined by a UFC Heavyweight Championship bout, but was moved to a free card on FOX Sports 1 after both Fabricio Werdum and Cain Velasquez pulled out of the main event due to injuries. This will be the UFC’s first Super Bowl Weekend card to be featured on free television.

    The event is now headlined by a five-round bout in the UFC’s welterweight division as former UFC Welterweight Champion Johny Hendricks looks to get back into a title fight as he takes on rising contender Stephen Thompson, winner of five straight bouts. In the co-main event on the evening, it will be former TUF winner and fan favorite Roy Nelson looking to end a three-fight losing skid as he takes on Jared Rosholt, winner of three straight fights. In an interesting bout headlining the preliminary portion on UFC Fight Pass, it will be Mickey Gall taking on Mike Jackson in a bout where Gall, if he wins, means he will take on C.M. Punk in Punk’s UFC debut later this year.

    MAIN CARD (FOX SPORTS 1- 10 PM ET/7 PM PT):
    Johny Hendricks (170) vs. Stephen Thompson (170)
    Roy Nelson (258) vs. Jared Rosholt (245)
    Ovince Saint Preux (206) vs. Rafael Cavalcante (205)
    Joseph Benavidez (125) vs. Zach Makovsky (125)
    Misha Cirkunov (206) vs. Alex Nicholson (201)
    Mike Pyle (170) vs. Sean Spencer (170)

    PRELIMINARY CARD (FOX SPORTS 1- 8 PM ET/5 PM PT):
    Josh Burkman (156) vs. K.J. Noons (156)
    Derrick Lewis (263) vs. Damian Grabowski (235)
    Ray Borg (125) vs. Justin Scoggins (125)
    Noad Lahat (145) vs. Diego Rivas (144)

    PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC FIGHT PASS- 7 PM ET/4 PM PT):
    Mickey Gall (170) vs. Mike Jackson (170)
    Artem Lobov (145) vs. Alex White (145)

  • WWE Smackdown results: AJ Styles vs. Miz, Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose have tension

    – Air Date: February 4, 2016 (Feb 3 in Canada) 
    – Location: FedExForum in Memphis, TN

    – The Big News: 

    Chris Jericho and A.J. Styles will have a rematch next week on Smackdown. Also, the main event actually had a real finish, but not before some tension between Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns. 

    – Show Recap: 

    Roman Reigns beat Rusev (w/Alberto Del Rio & King Barrett) via DQ 

    Less than 3 minutes into the match, Del Rio and Barrett pulled Reigns out of the ring and tossed him into the barricade for a DQ. Ambrose immediately ran out and attacked Rusev. He tried a diving elbow on Barrett and Del Rio but they moved and he nailed Reigns instead. 

    Ambrose was stunned, so Barrett grabbed him and Del Rio hit a superkick. They dragged him in the ring and Rusev applied the Accolade, but Reigns jumped in the ring with a chair and the League of Nations bailed. Lawler accused Ambrose of intentionally attacking Reigns, but Reigns very obviously did not see it that way. After a break, they announced a tag match with these men for the main event. 

    Backstage, Renee Young asked Ambrose if his attack on Reigns was a preview of Fastlane. Ambrose said it was an accident, because sometimes he gets wild. He added, “Trust me, when I come after Roman, he’ll know it.” Ambrose finished by saying they’d be on the same page tonight. 

    U.S. Champion Kalisto beat Kevin Owens via pinfall in a non-title match

    In an inset promo, Kalisto said he’s fighting for himself, the legacy of the title and the honour of the fight. Dolph Ziggler did commentary. This was a good match. Owens took Kalisto to the outside and bounced him off the barricade. He cleared the table and set up for a powerbomb, but actually powerbombed Kalisto into Ziggler. 

    Owens then superkicked Ziggler, and took Kalisto back in the ring. Ziggler miraculously popped up to distract Owens, so Kalisto applied a school boy for the pinfall win. Owens knocked Kalisto down from behind but bailed as soon as Ziggler jumped in the ring. 

    Owens powerbombing Kalisto into Ziggler was the funniest thing on Smackdown in a while, but it was sort of meaningless considering he lost anyway and Ziggler was totally fine afterwards. Still, Owens was great here and he acted distraught afterwards because of the loss. 

    Backstage, Jo-Jo interviewed The Miz, who said everything he always says. I was distracted by the “Smackdown” sign behind Miz, because it had a sizable rip along the bottom. Do they only have one “Smackdown” sign? 

    Ryback beat Erick Rowan (w/Braun Strowman) via pinfall 

    Ryback has new gear, and yes, he’s basically dressed like Goldberg – plain black trunks, gloves, kneepads and boots. Strowman tried a distraction, but Ryback tossed Rowan into him to knock him off the apron. Ryback followed with a meat hook clothesline on Rowan for the win. Strowman clumsily pushed Ryback out of the ring and he slowly backed down the aisle as they all stared at each other. 

    They showed some members of the Memphis Grizzlies in attendance, including Vince Carter. 

    Backstage, Renee asked Becky Lynch why she would help Sasha Banks who is after the same title as her. Before Lynch could explain, Banks jumped in and said if she saw Lynch on fire, she wouldn’t help. They bickered back and forth until they sort of begrudgingly agreed to help each other to take out Team B.A.D. before moving on to Charlotte. Renee was confused. 

    They announced Brock Lesnar for Raw in Seattle this Monday.

    A.J. Styles beat The Miz via submission 

    Chris Jericho joined commentary and was very good.  Byron Saxton wasted no time in reminding Jericho that he lost to Styles on Raw, and Jericho and threatened to slap him. Jericho said Styles came into WWE the same way as him, completely on his own with no friends. Lawler repeated Miz’s “redneck rookie” line, and Jericho said he’s not a rookie and accused Miz and Lawler of having ego problems. 

    Styles won with a Calf crusher (that’s what they called it) in a good match. I’d complain about Miz getting too much offense, but Styles kicked out of most of his pinfall attempts at a one count. 

    After the match, Jericho went in the ring and said everybody knows Styles is good, otherwise he never would’ve gotten to WWE or beaten him. Jericho said Styles was good, but wondered if he was great. Jericho has been lying awake at night thinking about it, wondering if Styles could beat him again, so Jericho challenged him to a rematch on Smackdown next week. Styles shook Jericho’s hand and brought him in close, telling him “I’m better than great. I’m phenomenal, Chris, and you’re going to find out – again.” This was good, and the crowd was into A.J. 

    Backstage, Reigns told Jo-Jo that he and Ambrose are never really on the same page, because Ambrose is crazy, but that’s what he likes about him – they’re different. He said what happens in Fastlane will be no accident, but tonight they’ll fight together. 

    WWE Tag Team Champion The New Day beat Social Outcasts via pinfall in a six-man tag

    New Day did a promo about how great it is having gold. The Social Outcasts interrupted and Adam Rose informed New Day that the tag titles were bronze, not gold. Rose said they would take the bronze off their wastes. New Day told him not to touch their wastes. They did some more “comedy” and then the match started. 

    The end of the match was a bit of a mess, but I did like the finish. Axel tried to win with his feet on the middle rope, but Woods knocked him off. Kingston then rolled up Axel and put his feet on the middle rope for the pinfall win. 

    WWE Divas Champion Charlotte (w/Ric Flair) beat Alicia Fox (w/Brie Bella) via submission in a non-title match

    As soon as the match started, I wondered if they would do the double big boot spot, and they did. That led to a comeback by Fox, which the crowd didn’t care about. Charlotte hit a “chop block” and applied the Figure Eight for the submission win. Match was about 4 minutes. 

    Another “comedy” segment with Goldust and R-Truth. Truth was at the hotel and Goldust showed up dressed as a barhop. Some stuff happened and then it was over. Goldust should seek out El Dandy. He’s a great wrestler. 

    WWE Intercontinental Champion Dean Ambrose & Roman Reigns beat Rusev & Alberto Del Rio via pinfall 

    Lawler mentioned all night that we would see Ambrose and Reigns implode tonight. That led to the key spot in this match. Reigns made a hot tag and ran wild, but was taken outside the ring by Del Rio. Ambrose went for a suicide dive, but Del Rio moved, and Ambrose went right into Reigns. However, they didn’t collide because Reigns caught him. 

    Reigns looked annoyed and asked Ambrose what he was doing. Rusev tried to jump Ambrose, so Reigns hit him with a superman punch, shoved him back in the ring and hit a spear for the win. Afterwards, Reigns and Ambrose got along just fine and chuckled about what happened. 

    As the show ended, they plugged A.J. Styles vs. Chris Jericho for next week. 

    – Final Thoughts: 

    This show was a mixed bag. The main stuff was good, but it really dragged after the Styles match. I am glad they pushed a big match for next week and we finally had a main event end with a real finish. 

    Best of luck to Bret “The Hitman” Hart. 

  • Daily Update: AJ Styles house show debut, Axl Rotten passes

    We’re looking for reports from tonight’s NXT show in Memphis at Dave Meltzer

    For anyone thinking of going to WrestleMania in Dallas, there are still a few spots open for the web site’s Friday night dinner before the NXT and ROH shows at Texas de Brazil in Dallas, and for the bus to  WrestleMania on Sunday.  Anyone interested, please contact Ed Loredo at f4wfan@hotmai.com

    Smackdown at 8 p.m. tonight is from Memphis

    Roman Reigns vs. Rusev

    Kalisto vs. Kevin Owens non-title

    Ryback vs. Erick Rowan

    A.J. Styles vs. The Miz

    The Social Outcasts vs. The New Day

    Charlotte vs Alicia Fox non-title

    Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose vs. Rusev & Alberto Del Rio

    WWE has a full schedule for events this weekend.  We’ll be looking for reports on Friday from the WWE house show in Calgary (Kane vs. Bray Wyatt plus Wyatt Family, Dean Ambrose, Chris Jericho, Dudleys, Paige and Natalya) and NXT shows in Nashville and Lakeland, FL.

    NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING AT 9 P.M. FRIDAY NIGHT ON AXS TV

    CMLL LIVE FROM ARENA MEXICO ON FRIDAY NIGHT AT 9:30 P.M. EASTERN AT www.ClaroSports.com

    LEGACY FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS ON FRIDAY NIGHT IN HINCKLEY, MINN. ON AXS TV AT 10 P.M. EASTERN

    R’Mandell Cameron vs. Derek Getzel

    Kuchlong Kuchlong vs Nate Richardson

    Chase Waldon vs. Justin  Winkels-Comparetto

    Antonio Trocoli vs. Jacob Volkmann

    Brock Larson vs. Travis Coyle

    Ricardo Lucas Ramos vs. Manuel Vazquez for the vacant bantamweight title

    Saturday has WWE shows in San Jose (Roman Reigns vs. Rusev, Brock Lesnar vs. Alberto Del Rio plus A.J. Styles, New Day, Usos and Big Show), Penticiton, BC (Kane vs. Bray Wyatt plus Wyatt Family, Dean Ambrose, Chris Jericho, Dudleys, Paige and Natalya) and NXT shows in Indianapolis and Bartow, FL.  ROH will be doing a major TV taping in Nashville at the Municipal Auditorium on Saturday night featuring the semifinals and finals of the Top Prospect tournament, a seven team gauntlet for a future tag team title shot with Young Bucks, Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly, Trent Baretta & Rocky Romero and four other teams, Briscoes vs. ACH & Alex Shelley, Dalton Castle vs Christopher Daniels, Adam Cole vs. Matt Sydal plus Jay Lethal, Roderick Strong, War Machine, Frankie Kazarian, Cedric Alexander, Moose, B.J. Whitmer, Adam Page, Caprice Coleman, Will Ferrera, Cheeseburger, ODB Amber Gallows, Mandy Leon, Veda Scott, Taeler Hendrix, Kelly Klein, Hania the Huntress and Sumie Sakai.

    UFC ON SATURDAY NIGHT ON FS 1 FROM THE MGM GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

    Fight Pass at 7 p.m. Eastern

    Arten Lobov vs. Alex White

    Mike Jackson vs. Mickey Gall – winner to face C.M. Punk in June

    FS 1 at 8 p.m.

    Noad Lahat vs. Diego Rivas

    Ray Borg vs. Justin Scoggins

    Damian Grabowski vs. Derrick Lewis

    K.J. Noons vs. Josh Burkman

    Mike Pyle vs. Sean Spencer

    Misha Cirkunov vs. Alex Nicholson

    Joseph Benavidez vs. Zach Makovsky

    Rafael Feijao Cavalcante vs. Ovince Saint Preux

    Jared Rosholt vs. Roy Nelson

    Johny Hendricks vs. Stephen Thompson

    WWE has only one show on Sunday, from Abbotsford, BC (Roman Reigns vs. Rusev).

    Raw will be Monday in Seattle.  Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman are scheduled on the show.

    Smackdown and Main Event will be taped on Tuesday in Portland, OR.  Chris Jericho vs. A.J. Styles is on the show.

    If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our new 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!

    Figure Four Weekly

    Figure Four Weekly 1/18/2016: Gawker’s motion to dismiss Hulk Hogan lawsuit denied
    Gawker’s motion to dismiss the Hulk Hogan sex tape lawsuit is denied, plus news and notes

    Wrestling Observer Newsletter

    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, and updates on the situation. The most detailed coverage of the last month of Lucha Underground’s second season, backstage news, season three, lots of business notes.  Full coverage of all the Ultima Lucha 2 matches and direction. Nakamura’s final day with NJPW, where Nakamura and New Japan go now, his background and building the IC title, the next two New Japan PPV shows to this weekend’s biggest event.

    Fast Lane and WrestleMania, what’s up with Undertaker, WWE injury updates, the 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, New WWE Network series based on wrestling matches, new WWE movie, WWE’s tour of Germany this coming week, more on The Rock’s segment on Raw.

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

    A huge look at the life and career of Archie “The Stomper” Gouldie, one of the most memorable wrestling characters of his generation, 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. 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 , what’s next for the winners, thoughts on Sage Northcutt, as well as business notes on the show and match-by-match coverage.

    PLUS MUCH MORE! CLICK HERE FOR A FULL WRESTLING OBSERVER PREVIEW

    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.

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    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.

    THURSDAY UPDATE

    We just got the word that Brian Knighton, who wrestled as Axl Rotten, best known as one of the major stars of ECW, passed away today at the age of 44.  

    Kenath Deawyne Peal, better known as Ken Wayne of The Galaxians and Nightmares tag team in the 80s, pleaded guilty to one count of child exploitation charges yesterday and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.  He will serve five years behind bars with the remaining 15 years on post-release supervision.  He will also be forced to pay $1,000 to the Mississippi Children’s Trust fund, $1,000 to the Mississippi Crime Victim’s Compensation fund and register as a sex offender.  Investigators found numerous photos and video of child pornography in his possession.

    A.J. Styles will make his WWE house show debut on Saturday night in San Jose, on the same show as a rare Brock Lesnar house show appearance.  He starts full-time on the road next weekend.  Bill Behrens, Styles’ agent, officially sent out word that Styles is taking no more independent bookings after having signed with WWE and thanked all the promoters who used him over the past two years.

    Davey Richards had his knee examined, he suffured an injury on Sunday in Birmingham, England.  There are no details other than the injury was worse than was hoped and he will be out of action for a while.  With Davey Richards injured, NSPW champion Marko Estrada will face Chris Hero on Saturday in Quebec City at the Horizon Centre.  Franky the Mobster and Dru Onyx are also on the show.

    Will Ospreay debuts for Evolve on 4/1 and 4/2 in Dallas over WrestleMania weekend.

    WWE

    • Pat Patterson’s autobiography, called “Pat Patterson:  Accepted, How the First Gay Superstar Changed WWE will be released in August by ECW Press.  Bertand Hebert, who did the great Montreal history book, will be the ghost-writer.  
    • There is a Smackdown ticket pre-sale going on right now for the 4/5 show in Houston, which is the Smackdown right after WrestleMania at the Toyota Center in Houston.  It ends at 10 p.m. tonight.
    • Cesaro is advertised for appearances at next week’s shows in Germany.  
    • WWE announced the payment of its next 12 cent per share dividend will be on 3/25.  WWE’s next earnings call will be on Thursday. 
    • WWE stock was up 38 cents per share today to close at $17.01. 
    • Ric Flair at the University of Michigan for recruitment day talking about when he nearly played for Michigan 47 years ago
    • A story on Apollo Crews

    UFC

    • Very interesting story on C.M. Punk and his MMA training
    • Alex Oliveira (14-2-1) was announced as the replacement for Tim Means in the main event of the 2/21 show in Pittsburgh in the battle of the Cowboys against Donald Cerrone.  Oliveira replaces Tim Means, who was pulled off the show yesterday due to a potential drug test violation.
    • Means in a tweet, stated “Never even heard of Ostarine. Look at my physic (sic).  Do I look like a steroid user.  LOL.”  Ostarine is a SARM, not a steroid, but a banned PED.
    • Rose Namajunas vs. Tecia Torres has been added to the 4/16 FOX UFC event.
    • UFC also announced these new fights for 4/10 in Zagreb, Croatia

    Timothy Johnson vs. Marcin Tybura – heavyweights

    Mairbek Taisumov vs. Damir Hadzovic – lightweights

    Bojan Velickovic vs. Alessio DiChirico – welterweights

    Tybura, Hadzovic, Vlickovic and DiChirico are all making their UFC debuts.

    • Dana White said that he blew it by allowing Sage Northcutt to fight on Saturday night.  “The kid really wanted to fight and I let him fight and he was sick as hell.  I blew it.” said White.  “I blew that one so bad.”

    MISCELLANEOUS

    • Fubo TV, a sports subscription service which concentrates on soccer coverage, an MVPD which provides a premium bundle of sports and entertainment channels is offering 15 new networks including El Rey, meaning Lucha Underground is available for those who don’t have it available at this point.  It streams at www.fubo.tv
    • Lex Luger has been announced as the recipient of the 2016 Frank Gotch Award at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum inductions on 7/21 to 7/23 in Waterloo, IA.  Luger joins myself, Chael Sonnen, J.J. Dillon and Joe Blanchard in being honored that weekend.
    • Tammy Stych has released an autobiography that came out today called “A Star Shattered:  The Rise and Fall of Wrestling Diva Tammy Sunny Sytch” through Riverdale Avenue Books.
    • Chris Bell, whose brothers were pro wrestlers and is best known for the movie “Bigger, Stronger, Faster” has a movie out now called “Prescription Thugs,” about how pharmaceutical companies and those show have economic ties to the industry are not looking at anyone’s long-term health, but looking at getting us hooked on their products.
    • A story on Jim Duggan performing at comedy clubs
    • Bill Behrens announced bookings for Nick Aldis (TNA Magnus) at SHOWBIS@aol.com, based in Richmond, VA.  He also noted that Christopher Daniels, Jay Lethal, and The Young Bucks are no longer available for U.S. or Toronto area bookings but are available in Europe, Mexico and Japan.  Others available are Frankie Kazarian, (Los Angeles), Moose (Atlanta), Matt Sydal (Tampa), DDP (Atlanta), Al Snow (Louisville), Scott Hall (Atlanta), Kevin Nash (Daytona Beach), Sean Waltman (Philadelphia) and Tommy Dreamer (New York) 
    • Jamie Yager vs. Greg Parker and Ozzie Alvarez vs. Andrew Ramm have been added to the TV portion of the 2/20 World Series of Fighting show in Garden Grove, CA.  The show is headlined by Marlon Moraes (15-4-1) putting his bantamweight title up against Joseph Barajas (12-1) and Timur Valiev (10-1) vs. Chris Gutierrez (8-1-1).
    • WWN will be doing a seminar and tryout on 3/21 on Long Island and 3/31 in Dallas.  This will give wrestlers tools needed to promote themselves, including professionally shot HD footage.
    • FIP tomorrow night in Ybor City, FL at the Orpheum has a live iPPV at www.wwnlive.com headlined by a death match with Devin & Mason Cutter vs. Reed Bentley & John Wayne Murodch.
    • In a correction from the Monday update, we listed that on a show in Dyresburg, TN, that Greg Anthony retained the NWA National title over John Saxon,  Actually Anthony won the title from Saxon in that match.
    • Gold Rush Wrestling from Saturday night in Pacifica, CA:  Sir Samurai & Corey Kreese b Manny Mars & Ethan White, Will Roberts b Matt Carlos, Synn & Kikyo Nakamura b Dalton Frost & Cowboy Charlie, Virgil Flynn III & Mike Matthews won four-way over Levi Shapiro & Buddy Royal, Johnny Dynamo & Ski Sol and Skye Brothers, Sparky Ballard b Rik Luxury, JR Kratos & Mr. Prime  Time b Boyce LeGrande & Marquise Jackson, Boyce LeGrande won Band Slam Cup Battle Royal
    • Scott Teal announced a new autobiography of former Mid Atlantic wrestler Mark Fleming, a protege of Lou Thesz
    • National Pro Wrestling Day takes place on Saturday at 2 p.m. in Reading, PA for a free show headlined by Mickie James vs. Kimber Lee.
    • Cam Newton had a Panthers-style silver Santo mask on Monday night doing media in the Bay Area.
    • Pro Wrestling Tees now has Pro Wrestling NOAH shirts for sale.
    • Al Snow headlines for River City Wrestling tomorrow night at Sideliners Grill in San Antonio, facing Paul Titan in the main event. 
    • 2/26 in Tijuana at the Auditorio has Alebrije (Kraneo in CMLL) & Charly Manson (Sharlie Rockstar in LLE) & Rey Misterio III vs. Psicosis (the original) & Pakal & Rey Escorpion.  The original Octagoncito and Piratita Morgan are in a minis match.
    • Atlantis, Ultimo Guerrero, Virus and Cavernario headline a 2/20 show in Dallas.
    • Fenix, Drago and Pentagon Jr are working a Mucha Lucha show on 3/13 in Atlanta.
    • CMLL on Monday night in Puebla:  Asturiano & Black Tiger b Ares & Espiritu Maligno, Rey Apocalipsis & Toro Bill Jr. b Magnus & Metatron, Blue Panther Jr. & Delta & Stigma b Pierroth & Sagrado & Bobby Z, Ephesto & Luciferno & Mephisto b Angel de Oro & Titan & Triton, Rush b Thunder-DQ, Negro Casas & Rey Bucanero & Ultimo Guerrero b Dragon Lee & Mascara Dorada & Volador Jr. (thanks to Kris Zellner)
    • Chaotic Wrestling tomorrow night in Lawrence, MA at the Elks Lodge #65.  Tommy Dreamer & Team Friendship face Chase Del Monte & The Logan Brothers in the main event.  Hanson from ROH faces Jesse Sorensen on the show.
    • I was told there is an excellent Masato Tanaka vs. Nanae Takahashi match at the women’s SeaadLinning show on 1/11.
    • A story on Frankie Kazarian combining wrestling and performing in a rock band

    ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY: Daily pro wrestling history (02/04): Lawler and Jarrett win USWA Tag Team Titles

  • Axl Rotten has passed away at age 44

    We just got the word that Brian Knighton, who wrestled as Axl Rotten, best known as one of the major stars of ECW, passed away today at the age of 44.  Knighton had been battling drug issues for years and had been in a wheelchair and had vowed to escape from it several months ago. 

    As Axl Rotten, he got his first break in 1991 with Ian Rotten in the Dallas-based GWF.  As Bad Breed, he and Ian started as a team and had a bloody feud after in ECW.  Axl Rotten & Balls Mahoney were a regular tag team from 1996 through 1999, often working with the Dudleys..  He worked for WWE briefly in 2005 as part of a team with Mahoney and wrestled once for TNA in 2010, but due to his problems, has been unable to wrestle for the past few years.

    A WWE statement:

    “WWE is saddened to learn of reports that Brian Knighton, best known for competing in ECW as Axl Rotten from 1993 to 1999, has passed away. WWE extends its condolences to Knighton’s family, friends and fans.”

  • WON Preview: Bret Hart diagnosed with cancer

    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.

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    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. 

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

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    Current subscribers click here to continue reading.