This morning literally marks the road to a New Beginning as Shinsuke Nakamura is set to make his final appearance in New Japan Pro Wrestling.
Nakamura’s career has always gone in different paths than normal wrestlers who made their way through the New Japan system. He won the IWGP championship within his first year of wrestling, which is something that almost never happens, be it New Japan or anywhere else in the world. He was alright in his role as a main eventer, but came across as bland and uninteresting, perhaps due to the fact he was put in the spotlight very quickly and wasn’t able to find himself. It wasn’t until his return from an excursion in Mexico where he became known for his charismatic style that made him into a bona fide star in New Japan, not just a guy headlining cards.
But now he’s leaving the promotion that made him to test new waters – the WWE. Personally, I think he’ll do fine as you need to be charismatic in the WWE to truly succeed, and Nakamura has that down pat. It’s also up to creative and luck of the draw. But at least here, tonight, we’ll be able to see him one last time as a true headliner and top star of one of the biggest promotions in the world.
They’re treating this as a bigger deal than most “Road To” shows as there is commentary and a multiple camera setup tonight.
Hirai Kawato vs. David Finlay
Finlay’s titantron respectfully gives his birth year and stats. That’s kinda plain…then again, I guess that’s the goal of a young lion. Kawato seems very tiny, even by young lion standards. Finlay, who is also a junior heavyweight, dwarfed him. He’s the eighteen year old straight out of the dojo. He looked fine, a bit green but that’s expected in his second match ever. Finlay looked great. Its these kind of matches that make you feel like you’re seeing great results from the New Japan young lion system as you see noticeable improvements a year in. Finlay submitted him with a Boston crab.
Jay White vs. Yoshi-Hashi
It’s so rare to see a Yoshi-Hashi singles match…I think I can count on one hand how many televised singles matches he’s had in the last year! White also looked very good here. If it wasn’t for Chad Gable being a bit more colorful I think he would have gotten more votes for rookie of the year. People were into him and he got a few near close calls, including a crossface. YH eventually powerbombed him then bridged him for the win.
Yuji Nagata, Manabu Nakanishi & Tiger Mask vs. Satoshi Kojima, Jushin Thunder Liger and Hiroyoshi Tenzan
I wonder if Liger and Tiger Mask are still feuding over the NWA Junior Heavyweight title. They kept pushing Nakanishi out of the ring as they worked over Tiger Mask and Nagata. He finally got a tag and Nakanishi looked slightly more mobile than usual in making a comeback, which isn’t saying a lot. He ran roughshod on everyone. Tencozy made their comeback with the 3D and Kojima pinned Nakanishi with a lariat. Solid bout given the participants.
Toru Yano and Kazushi Sakuraba vs. Bad Luck Fale and Yujiro Takahashi
This seems to be a continuation of a feud that’s been going on lately between Yano and Bad Luck Fale, but now it’s also over Yano’s six man tag titles. Not much of a match, just some back and forth with added Yano antics. He did his taunt as Fale was going to the grenade but Yano caught him. Yano tried to use the ref as a distraction, but not only did it not work, Takahashi low blowed him. Fale followed that with the grenade and pinned Yano.
They showed the press conference where Nakamura relinquished the Intercontinental title during intermission.
Ryusuke Taguchi, Kushida & Captain New Japan vs. Evil, Bushi and Tetsuya Naito
This tour, Taguchi decided he’s going to dress like Dr. Doom: green cape, mask, everything. As usual, Taguchi & Kushida did most of the work and didn’t seem interested in tagging in CNJ. I don’t blame them since he takes the pin in literally every match he’s ever been in. Regardless, I guess because he hasn’t been around most of this month Korakuen Hall were into his comeback. Kushida tried to do a run in but Bushi sprayed him and did a suicide dive. The rest of Los Ingobernables left Taguchi lying with their finish, then Evil laid out CNJ with the STO for the win. The finish was hot, everything else was just okay.
After the match, Bushi cut a promo saying he hopes he’s looking forward to his last title defense.
Kenny Omega, Karl Anderson, Doc Gallows and Cody Hall vs. Michael Elgin, Togi Makabe, Tomoaki Honma and Juice Robinson
Typical multi man NJPW tag match with all the usual tropes. Doesn’t mean it’s bad, actually the last few minutes were pretty great. Elgin powerbombed Anderson into the rest of the Bullet Club. Omega came back in and hit a reverse rana, which was pretty damn amazing. He hit a running knee to the corner, taking out Robinson, then pinned him with a knee strike very similar to the boma ye, I guess to mock Nakamura. Another solid match.
They aired a fantastic video highlighting all the big moments of Nakamura’s career, from his debut match to winning the IWGP championship for the first time in 2003, the arrival of Chaos, winning the G1 Climax in 2011, winning the Intercontinental championship for the first time, and much more.
Tanahashi, Hirooki Goto & Katsuyori Shibata vs. Tomohiro Ishii, Kazuchika Okada and Shinsuke Nakamura
Korakuen became lit when Nakamura’s music hit. Signs were everywhere. They teased Nakamura and Tanahashi squaring off but Goto came in instead and he and Okada started. He’s been acting way more heelish since the title callout earlier this month, but that’s probably just through the title match. Mostly a straightforward match where everyone worked each other’s rivals. Fans were into whenever Nakamura did his trademark spots. Nakamura has Tanahashi down at one point and motioned for the boma ye but Shibata and Goto laid him out. Tanahashi went for the high fly flow but got the knees up. Nakamura went for the boma ye, but Tanahashi countered with the slingblade. Shibata and Ishii closed out the match. After a good back and forth sequence, Ishii pinned him with a brainbuster. Just a tag match, but a good one.
Omega hit the ring. He said that Nakamura calls this a graduation, but he’s just scared of facing him. Tanahashi then appears. After saying a few lines, he makes it clear that he is X, and will face him at New Beginning. Omega leaves, unamused.
Nakamura takes the mic and says he won’t say goodbye, but thanks everyone. The rest of Chaos come out to celebrate with him as they posed for pictures. Both Okada and Nakamura were emotional as Okada put Nakamura on his shoulders and they left the arena.
Very memorable show for the ending and main event, obviously. Usual solid action up and down the card.
The Octagon returns to Newark, New Jersey on Saturday night for UFC On FOX 18. The event is headlined by a five-round light heavyweight bout between Anthony Johnson and Ryan Bader. Below are our studs, value plays and fighters to avoid for UFC On FOX 18 to help you fill out your line-ups for your daily fantasy games.
STUDS
Sage Northcutt ($11,000)
Sage Northcutt has the highest salary of all 26 fighters on the card, and for good reason. He enters Saturday night with a perfect 7-0 record, with all wins by finish, and five in the first round. He fights a short-notice replacement, and is up a weight class due to the late switch, meaning no need to cut as much weight. He should be plenty fresh, which is good coming six weeks after his most recent fight. He has a real opponent in this bout in Bryan Barberena, who is 10-3 and has won seven of his last eight fights. This is Northcutt’s biggest test, but he has passed them all so far, and Barberena is taking the fight on short notice after starting preparations to fight in a month. If Northcutt is as good as he has been, he should get a finish here.
Randy Brown ($10,500)
Randy Brown is coming into his UFC debut with a little bit of fame after being featured on the first episode of Dana White’s “Looking For A Fight” television show. He has a perfect 6-0 record in less than two years as a professional fighter, and all six wins have come by stoppage. He is a very solid prospect, but he may be in the UFC just a little quick, but that is to be expected within the next several months. He gets a lower-level opponent in Matt Dwyer, who is tough but is just 1-2 inside the Octagon. Brown is a good bet to score some solid points and get a finish, and he is one of our top plays on an action-packed card.
VALUE PLAYS
Jake Ellenberger ($8,800)
There is zero question that Jake Ellenberger is struggling in the Octagon. He has just one win in his last five fights, and that was over a past his prime Josh Koscheck. Worst of all, Ellenberger has been finished in his last three losses. It’s a skid like that which makes Ellenberger an underdog on Saturday against Tarec Saffiedine. Saffiedine hasn’t fought since October 2014, and big injury issues have limited him to just two fights in the last three years. Ring rust could be a pivotal factor for Saffiedine, but Ellenberger’s chin, or perhaps lack of, could be a major factor as well. If you’re looking to spend up and need a cheap option, Ellenberger has good value at his salary.
Ryan Bader ($8,500)
It is crazy to think that Ryan Bader has the second lowest salary of the fighters on the card even though he has a five-fight win streak. He is getting greatly undervalued, especially considering he is in a five-round bout, which gives him more of an edge when it comes to scoring points with the extra ten minutes. He has a tough opponent in Anthony Johnson, who has knockout power. Johnson also tends to crumble when he is pressured by a wrestler, and Bader has a style to grind the fight out. Bader can also find submissions if there are openings, and Johnson leaves himself open a lot if he is being dominated on the mat. Bader is definitely worth looking at with his salary, and he has a good chance at scoring the upset.
FIGHTERS TO AVOID
Olivier Aubin-Mercier ($10,400)
Let’s start this off by saying that odds are pretty good that Olivier Aubin-Mercier walks away with a win. He is fighting a short notice opponent, has looked good in winning three straight, and is a solid prospect. Here is why I would avoid him. I see the fight going like his last bout, a win over Tony Sims. He won by a decision and scored six takedowns, all getting solid points. However, he landed just three significant strikes in that fight, good for 1.5 points. There are a lot better options with a similar salary. I don’t see him finishing Ferreira, but a grinding win is likely here. Being the case, I’m avoiding him on my rosters.
Kevin Casey ($9,500)
Kevin Casey has a middle of the road salary for Saturday night, and he is unbeaten since returning to the UFC. Granted, two of his three fights have been no contests- one, which was a win that was overturned after a failed drug test, and his most recent fight ended in a no contest after just 11 seconds after he was poked in the eyes. That happened just six weeks ago, and it remains to be seen if there will be any lingering damage. He has a tough opponent in Rafael Natal who is climbing up the middleweight rankings. Casey has a tough matchup, is coming back from tough circumstances, and is unlikely to finish Natal, even if he may get a win. I suggest avoiding him in your lineups.
OUR LINE-UPS
RYAN FREDERICK- Sage Northcutt ($11,000), Randy Brown ($10,500), Josh Barnett ($10,100), Rafael Natal ($9,900), Ryan Bader ($8,500)
I like Sage Northcutt to continue his undefeated streak and score a finish against a late replacement. Bryan Barberena will be tough but Northcutt really is a skilled fighter. It’ll get tougher from here for sure. I see Randy Brown getting a finish in his UFC debut. He has a good skillset and is a good prospect. Josh Barnett is another pick as I have him winning over Ben Rothwell, and I think a submission win is a good bet as he should be able to take Rothwell down. Rafael Natal is a pick I had to think about. I have him winning, but I don’t know if it’ll be by decision or a finish. I think he has a good shot at submitting Kevin Casey, but not overly confident he will finish him. I just see him as the best option with what I had left. Lastly, I’m going with Ryan Bader. His salary helped pick some higher-priced fighters, and I think if he can push a grinding fight, he has a good shot at submitting Anthony Johnson, or at worst, getting a decision win, and the extra ten minutes would add to the point totals.
PAUL FONTAINE- Sage Northcutt ($11,000), Olivier Aubin-Mercier ($10,400), Dustin Ortiz ($10,300), Felipe Olivieri ($9,400), Jake Ellenberger ($8,800)
Sage Northcutt is going to finish Bryan Barbarena. Everyone watching this show knows this and he’s a no-brainer for the team. Fighting at 170 could be to his advantage as he should have more power at that weight and his frame can certainly sustain it. Barbarena is taking the biggest fight of his life on short notice here and it should be a quick win for Zach Morris 2.0. Aubin-Mercier has been constantly improving since losing to Chad Laprise in his official UFC debut by split decision at the TUF Nations finale. He should grind out a late submission or possibly a dominant decision win here as he continues his rise up the lightweight rankings. Ortiz is one of the few flyweights with KO power and I like him to finish Wilson Reis. Ortiz’ only two UFC losses were to Joseph Benavidez and John Moraga and Reis isn’t in the class of either of those two. Ellenberger-Saffiedine is interesting. Ellenberger has been the more active fighter recently but he’s also on a slide. Saffiedine hasn’t fought in 15 months since suffering a KO loss to Rory McDonald. I like Ellenberger to rebound with a KO but I am going on a bit of a limb here as you sometimes have to do to get everyone in under the $50,000 cap. My last pick is someone making his UFC debut in Felipe Oliveri. He’s a finisher, having ran up 4 first round KO’s in his last 5 fights. His opponent Tony Martin has been finished in two of his 3 UFC losses. Oliveri scores another quick win here and probably sends Martin packing from UFC.
PEACH MACHINE- Anthony Johnson ($10,900), Alex Caceres ($10,800), Jimmie Rivera ($10,200), Jake Ellenberger ($8,800), Bryan Barberena ($8,400)
I like Johnson to KO Bader. As in, I’d love it. Bader has been such a disappointment. That said, I could see him exposing Rumble if he can make this a grinder. I don’t think he will though… Barbarena is tough and I was thoroughly unimpressed by Northcutt’s most recent outing… Bruce Leroy Caceres should be able to handle the guy on Sherdog who doesn’t have a profile pic. He has to, as he’s lost 3 in a row and needs a win badly here… I really like Jimmie Rivera. He’s on a 16 fight win streak, and Alcantara is not that good… I’m taking Ellenberger because I’m low on cash and don’t really like anyone else I can afford.
Submitted by Ryan Dunch w/additional notes from Joe Kazmer
Stage AE was sompletely sold out, with a substantial amount of a standing room tickets sold.
– The night started with a pre-taped intro from Triple H thanking the fans for making NXT.
NXT Tag Champions Dawson & Wilder def. Big Cass and Enzo Amore
People were really excited and chanted along with the whole Enzo/Cass intro. Lots of How You Doin and other chants. Wilder and Dawson won after hitting their finisher on Enzo. Enzo and Cass got a standing ovation after they were left alone in the ring. This was a theme for the night anytime someone the crowd liked lost a match.
Nia Jax pinned Carmella after the big leg drop
Wasn’t very good but not as bad as I was expecting. Poor Nia was cat called early on when the crowd was otherwise pretty silent.
Elias Sampson def. Tye Dillinger
Sampson, who is from Pittsburgh, claimed that he wrote a special song about returning to Pittsburgh which was comically bad:
“Back in my hometown of Pittsburgh for the sold out show tonight and I’d say it’s nice to be here but that would be a lie, You can all tip me money for playing my guitar cuz I’ll never turn it down, In fact I should get a lot of money for even coming back to this crappy town!”
Met with boos and an inaudible chant, and actually was worse than it looks on paper. Dillinger was cheered, mostly just people having fun with the 10 chants. Sampson defeated Tye Dillinger after raking Tye’s eyes while the ref was distracted, and pinned him following a swinging neckbreaker. Then he kissed his guitar and carried it over his shoulder as he exited.
Baron Corbin pinned Apollo Crews after the End of Days
Baron out to good heel reaction, Apollo got a decent pop. “Boring Corbin” chants. Mostly an anti-Corbin crowd as opposed to a pro-Crews crowd. Corbin looked strong for a lot of the match and Crews got a lukewarm response for his comeback. People were into some of his athletic spots and did react to those – including a plancha to the floor. Crowd got into the last bit with trading shots and some near falls.
Sami Zayn pinned Johnny Gargano
They had a lively match, and both men were over with the crowd. A lot of singing for Zayn, and “Johnny Wrestling” chants for Gargano. Really a great final few minutes which led to Sami pinning Johnny with a Heluva Kick. After the match was over, Sami helped Johnny up and embraced him and raised his hand. The crowd gave Gargano a really nice standing ovation after the match while Zayn hopped out of the ring and applauded him on the outside. Really loud sustained “Johnny Wrestling” chant here as well.
> Intermission
Women’s Champion Bayley pinned Alexa Bliss with the Bayley to Belly suplex
Bayley is very beloved by this audience. Little girls with Bayley shirts in attendance, Bayley made sure to give them hugs. There was a lot of stalling at the beginning with lots of people in the crowd screaming for hugs and Bayley hopping out to give some. There was a fun spot where she popped out and hugged a guy in the front row for a big pop and as she ran back in Alexa gave her a cheap shot. They did some mat wrestling and traded near falls in the final sequence which ended with Bayley catching Alexa with a sudden Bayley-to-Belly for the pin.
American Alpha (Jason Jordan & Chad Gable) def. The Vaudevillians
Gable pinned English with their back suplex finisher. Jordan and especially Gable were over huge. Good technical stuff here early on. Both teams looked sharp, all of the stuff was tight. Jordan and Gable are really impressive to see live, lots of spots I’ve never seen anyone do, and it all looked great. Big this is Wrestling chant for the earlier mat wrestling.
NXT Champion Finn Balor def. Samoa Joe
They had a good match. It was quiet early. When the match went on, the show had been on for a solid 2 hours 30 minutes if you include the intermission. But they pulled the crowd in after some mat wrestling when Joe bailed to the outside. This led to brawling on the floor. Joe got some solid heel heat. He made a comeback and hit his flying kick thing in the corner. Crowd started with a “Joe Joe Joe” chant after all the boos and Joe just looked at the crowd and shook his head.
Finn threw Joe back outside and his a baseball slide. He hit the footstomp to Joe while Joe was still standing and hunched over for a nearfall. This is Awesome chants. Joe hit a bad ass clothesline for a 2 count. Dueling punches, Joe catches Balor in a rear naked, Balor escapes, misses a corner kick. Joe went for the Buster and Balor countered it into a sunset flip pin for another near fall. Final sequence was really good. Balor ended up hitting his kick to the corner and the Coup de Grace for the win.
Submitted by Stephen Lyon from Manchester, England, UK
– TNA returned to Manchester, England, for night one of their three night annual U.K. tour. Two episodes of IMPACT WRESTLING were taped this evening, said to air on February 2nd and 9th.
– The 20,000 capacity Manchester Arena appeared to be greatly cut down and curtained off for a 5000 capacity (only a small part of the lower tier only open), and I’d estimate a crowd of 3000 (possibly less). It wasn’t full for what they set up and there were lots of empty seats. The crowd were very hot at key points in the show, but it was a long show (a 4 hour taping) and a lot of people left during the 4th hour, presumably to catch the last bus or train home. I think there was only 1500 fans left for the main event of the taping, and the show started at 7pm and finished at 10:50pm.
TNA XPlosion:
Mark Andrews beat Will Ospreay
Match went 5 minutes. After they made such a big deal about featuring British wrestlers on the taping, not only did Big Damo & Jimmy Havoc not appear tonight (despite tweeting earlier that they were both in Manchester), Will Ospreay was only featured in a five minute opening match spotfest that’s not even going to air on IMPACT. Match was okay but not a patch on their PWG stuff. This was a huge disappointment in many respects, and a waste of Ospreay’s talents.
February 2nd (February 7th in the UK) IMPACT:
– They aired an Ethan Carter 3 pretaped promo in his mansion, taped ‘earlier in the week’, where Carter cut a terrific babyface promo, acknowledging he’s been an jerk in the past, but saying the defeat to Hardy had been a wake up call, and that he was flying to England to get his revenge. I’m guessing they aired this to condition the live crowd as to him being a babyface during the show, to ensure the ‘right reactions’ occurred. This was really well done.
– IMPACT opened with a Matt Hardy interview. The TNA Champion was accompanied by Reby Sky, and Tyrus was carrying little Maxel. Hardy was heavily booed and cut a great heel promo, demanding that Dixie Carter fire EC3 later in the show.
Bobby Lashley beat Bram
Eric Young accompanied Bram to the ring, and his interference backfired when he tried to hit Lashley with a chair and hit Bram instead. Lashley speared both and pinned Bram.
– Kurt Angle came out to a huge pop for a farewell interview. Mike Bennett & Maria interrupted and insulted him. Bennett challenged Angle, but Angle decked him, saying he’d only wrestle people he respected, and said his opponent tonight was Drew Galloway. Galloway then appeared on the entrance ramp before returning to the back.
X Division Champion Trevor Lee beat Tigre Uno to retain
Lee was accompanied by Shane Helms.
Beer Money beat Decay by D.Q.
Beer Money came out for an interview to a big pop. James Storm rode a scooter-like vehicle called a ‘Bruiser Cruiser’ to the ring. They mentioned their Feast or Fired Tag Title shot briefcase and challenged the Wolves to a title match tonight. Decay came out instead and challenged Beer Money to a fight. To the match, Storm had Crazzy Stevie pinned, only for Abyss to pull the ref out for the D.Q. Decay put the boots to both Roode & Storm afterwards, with the Wolves running in for the save. Wolves cut a promo on Decay, demanding their belts back, which Decay had stolen. Wolves offered Decay a tag title match. Abyss agreed, as long as it was a Monsters Ball match ‘next week’ (taped later).
– Grado came out of the crowd in his wrestling gear, acknowledging he’d been fired and was disappointed he couldn’t wrestle tonight. He then claimed that he’d been screwed, and had proof, pulling out an envelope. Eli Drake interrupted him and both Drake and two security guys chased Grado out of the ring and to the back, Benny Hill-style. It was fairly amusing and the crowd ate it up. Grado got a good reaction.
Jade beat Madison Rayne
Rebel & Marti attacked Rayne afterwards, and Gail Kim ran out for the save.
Drew Galloway beat Kurt Angle
This turned into a pretty good 15 minute match. Finish saw Galloway escape from the ankle lock and apply his own submission move for the win. Afterwards, the pair embraced. Angle looked choked up afterwards, looking at the crowd.
Finish of the first show saw Hardy, Reby and Tyrus in the ring (no Maxel this time), confronting Dixie Carter who came out. Hardy pleaded with Dixie to fire EC3, bringing up all the terrible things EC3 had done in the past. Rockstar Spud came out to a big pop. Spud was wearing a bright red suit with the POP TV logo on the back. Spud told Hardy that EC3 had done most of the terrible things to him, Spud, but that EC3 shouldn’t be fired because he can back it up in the ring, and claimed EC3 was still undefeated, unpinned and unsubmitted. Tyrus decked Spud. As the heels were about to attack Dixie, EC3 came out to the biggest reaction of the night. He stood at the top of the ramp, ripped off his suit then ran down the aisle. He nailed 2 security guards, then Tyrus, but once he made it to the ring, Hardy ran away. Crowd loved EC3, singing along to his music and waving their arms in the air.
Taped for the February 9th (February 14th in the UK) IMPACT:
Mike Bennett beat Mark Andrews
Good match. Bennett was beating on Andrews after the match and Galloway ran out for the save.
Eric Young went to double countout with James Storm
Nothing match. Afterwards, Young & Bram brawled with Roode & Storm into the crowd and into the concourses.
Mahabili Shera & ‘ODARG The Great’ beat Eli Drake & Jesse Godderz
‘ODARG The Great’ was the ‘fired’ Grado under a mask, ‘Odarg’ obviously being ‘Grado’ spelt backwards. Odarg came out to the same Madonna ‘Like A Prayer’ theme song, with ‘ODARG’ written across his singlet like Grado’s regular singlet. Everyone in the crowd knew it was Grado, not that it wasn’t obvious anyway. On the surface this seems dumb, but it was played for comedy and the crowd ate it up. Odarg pinned Drake, but his mask came off at one point during the match.
– EC3 came out for an interview, and ended up brawling with both Matt Hardy and Tyrus. Hardy & Tyrus challenged EC3 to a tag match later.
TNA Tag Champions The Wolves beat Decay in a Monsters Ball match to retain (and regain physical possession of the belts).
This was a wild hardcore match, with chairs, tables, ladders, thumb tacks, a barbed wire bat and barbed wire board used. A key spot was the Wolves caught Rosemary trying to interfere, and with Edwards holding her, Richards at first teased using a cheesegrater on her (seriously), then even better, forced a big kiss on her (similar to the Ric Flair/Becky Lynch spot at the Rumble that people raised their eyebrows over, given it’s now 2016). Finish saw Richards give Crazzy Stevie a brainbuster on a chair covered in tacks for the win.
– Jeremy Borash brought out Josh Matthews to wave to the crowd, and also later, Billy Corgan. Corgan did some brief mic work, thanking the crowd.
Gail Kim & Madison Rayne beat Jade & Marti
Afterwards, Rebel beat down the faces, with Velvet Sky making the save. Sky then cut a promo, challenging the Dollhouse to a 3 on 3 ‘Lethal Lockdown’ match, to be taped in London tomorrow.
Ethan Carter 3 & Rockstar Spud beat TNA World Champion Matt Hardy & Tyrus
Spud came out mid-way through the match as Carter’s partner. Afterwards, Spud simply glared at EC3 then left. The storyline is that although both are now babyfaces, Spud hasn’t forgiven EC3 for the way he mistreated him in the past.
Then in a dark segment to close the show, EC3 brought Spud out again, and told the crowd it was Spud’s birthday tomorrow, leading the crowd in singing Happy Birthday to him. Spud seemed happy, then said, “By the way, I still hate you’” and left.
Notes:
Overall an entertaining show. It did drag a lot towards the end of the third hour and into the fourth hour. The crowd were enthusiastic at the key moments. It was just sad to see the crowd smaller than it was last year (and the crowd size has decreased every year for the past 2-3 years), with plenty of empty seats visible on all 3 sides of the arena. The main event angle is strong, and they did a terrific job getting EC3 over as the top babyface to the point he was the most over babyface on the show by the end (with the possible exception of Kurt Angle).
Tonight’s episode took place on April 5, 2015 at Sumo Hall in Tokyo, Japan, our first look at the matches that took place on the Invasion Attack 2015 card.
First up we have the Young Bucks taking on Roppongi Vice (Beretta and Rocky Romero) for the IWGP Junior tag team championships. I believe this is their first tour together, as Romero’s former partner Alex Kozlov has taken a sabbatical from wrestling at the start of this year. I always like it when they do singles matches in this division. This was the year they went overboard on the multi tag bouts that are fine, but get kind of stale if you do them over and over. I don’t mind a multi-man match every now and then, but I’d like to see more singles tag team bouts in 2016 as I just feel it means a bit more when competiing for a title. Very good stuff overall in this bout. Romero is pretty underrated in these kind of matches, he’s really tremendous in what he does and he’s usually the most over guy in the division. They win the titles with the Omori Driver/dropkick combination.
After the match Romero says let’s get the party started in Roppongi. Backstage, Romero says that Beretta has proved himself here tonight by winning the titles. Beretta says this is just the beginning and joked they were just going to go to McDonalds or something to celebrate.
Kenny Omega faced Mascara Dorada next for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight championship. This was easily the highlight of Dorada’s tour as he looked great. His agility is outstanding and and is a really refined worker in knowing the style of New Japan while also implementing lucha libre moves. Omega looked fine in keeping up with Dorada and they had a really great match. It’s astonishing that they didn’t do more with Dorada during his excursion in New Japan. I would have loved to see him work a match with Kushida (they did, but it was really short during the Super Juniors tournament). Feels like a waste of talent just putting him in multi man tags. He lost here, with Omega getting the win with the One Winged Angel.
Omega takes a mic after the match and says that as the master of dark custodial arts he’s cleaned up Mexican and Japanese trash, but now it’s time to take out the worst – American trash. Shelley, who is helping Dorada after the match, is called out by Omega. They two have a staredown before Omega bails. Omega is prone to over-acting in promos as I guess he’s going for an anime heel vibe in terms of delivery, but he was fine here.
Shelley says he (Omega) can clean up his body parts after their match as he’ll take him out piece by piece. How can you do that if your body parts are all over the place? He promises he’ll be the next champion..
Time for a chat with Kazushi Sakuraba. He thought forming a tag team with Toru Yano would be interesting, and felt most natural to him. After not knowing if he’s a member of Chaos or not, he talks about facing Shibata. He says when you are in the ring, you have to think of everyone as your enemy. He doesn’t really have anything special to say in facing Shibata.
Sakuraba, teaming with Toru Yano, faces Hiroshi Tanahashi & Katsuyori Shibata in the main event of this program. This is interesting, as Shibata and Sakuraba are facing off against one another despite coming back to New Japan together in 2012 as Laughter7. They did a lot of technical wrestling and looked good, since both have experience in MMA (obviously). Got very heated towards the end as Sakuraba fireman carries Shibata to the floor and taps him out with a kimura. I liked the latter half of this match, but the first just kind of stalled. I didn’t buy this as a main event, but obviously this is just one part of a multi-show series on the event, and I guess it was fine when you think about that.
Yano after the match says Tanahashi is no longer the ace and will change him into a garbage wrestler. Sakuraba says he came to NJPW to stir things up. He suggests Tanahashi should face Shibata. He also says he would face him if he got the chance. Tanahashi simply says Yano got him.
At this time, we don’t have additional details, but we have learned that TNA’s Awesome Kong was sent home from the U.K. tour due to a physical dressing room altercation with Reby Hardy. Here’s the full results from Friday’s tapings.
These matches have been announced for the Saturday tapings in London at SSE Wembley:
TNA Champion Matt Hardy vs. Ethan Carter III cage match
Kurt Angle vs. Bobby Roode
Eric Young & Bram vs. Roode & James Storm cage match
Velvet Sky & Gail Kim & Madison Rayne vs. Jade & Marti Bell & Rebel cage match
We’re looking for reports on tonight’s TNA TV tapings from Manchester, England as well as tonight’s NXT shows in Pittsburgh and Largo, FL to Dave Meltzer
Our only weekend poll will be for the UFC show tomorrow night on FOX, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to Dave Meltzer
Tons of stuff for your viewing pleasure tonight.
BELLATOR TONIGHT ON SPIKE AT 9 P.M. EASTERN TIME FROM FRESNO
Raphael Butler (263) vs. Tony Johnson (264.4)
Ryan Couture (155) vs. Patricky Pitbull Freire (155.4)
Chris Honeycutt (171) vs. Paul Bradley (171)
Paul Daley (170.2) vs. Andy Uhrich (169.8)
NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING RETURNS AT 9 P.M. EASTERN TIME ON AXS TV
Young Bucks vs. Rocky Romero & Trent Baretta for IWGP jr. tag titles
Amber Gallows vs. Leva (Blue Pants) for NWA women’s title
Taylor Made vs. Santana Garrett for Shine championship
CMLL LIVE FROM ARENA MEXICO AT WWW.CLAROSPORTS.COM AT 9:30 P.M. EASTERN TIME
Hombre Bala Jr. & Super Halcon Jr. vs. Arkangel de la Muerte & Cancerbero
Fuego & The Panther & Triton vs. Puma King & Tiger & Virus
Guerrero Maya Jr. & Titan & Valiente vs. Ephesto & Luciferno & Pierroth
Gran Guerrero & Mephisto & Niebla Roja vs. Dragon Rojo Jr. & Kraneo & Polvora
Thunder vs. Euforia
Dragon Lee & Mistico & Volador Jr. vs. Barbaro Cavernario & Negro Casas & Ultimo Guerrero
LION FIGHTS TONIGHT FROM TEMECULA, CA AT 10 P.M. ON AXS TV
Jared Papazian (133) vs. Travis Clay (131.2)
Coke Chunhawatr (137.4) vs. Anmvar Boynazarov (140.4)
Chris Culley (150.2) vs. Brian Del Rosario (146.6)
Kronphet Phetrachapat (143.6) vs. Gaston Bolanos (142.4)
Ashley Nichos (119.2) vs. Tiffany Van Soest (119) for Womens’ super bantamweight title
Charlie Peters (146.4) vs. Fabio Pinca (145.2)
VICTORY FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS ON UFC FIGHT PASS AT 10 P.M.
Josh Neer vs. Anthony Smith for the middleweight title
Jake Lindsey vs. Yuri Villefort
NEW JAPAN FROM KORAKUEN HALL FOR SHINSUKE NAKAMURA’S FAREWELL MATCH AT 4:30 A.M. TONIGHT EASTERN AND 1:30 A.M. PACIFIC ON NEW JAPAN WORLD
David Finlay vs. Kawato Hirai
Jay White vs. Yoshi-Hashi
Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima & Jushin Liger vs. Yuji Nagata & Manabu Nakanishi & Tiger Mask
Kazushi Sakuraba & Toru Yano vs. Yujiro Takahashi & Bad Luck Fale
Kushida & Ryusuke Taguchi & Captain New Japan vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Bushi
Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma & Michael Elgin & Juice Robinson vs. Kenny Omega & Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows & Cody Hall
Hiroshi Tanahashi & Katsuyori Shibata & Hirooki Goto vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Kazuchika Okada & Tomohiro Ishii in the All-Star trios match
We’ll be looking for reports on Saturday from the TNA tapings in London, WWE in Macon, GA (Roman Reigns vs. Rusev for WWE title, Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens for IC title, New Day vs. Usos for tag titles) and Chattanooga (Kane vs. Bray Wyatt plus Erick Rowan, Braun Strowman, Luke Harper, Big Show and Kalisto) as well as NXT shows in Royal Oak, MI and Venice, FL.
UFC ON FOX ON SATURDAY FROM THE PRUDENTIAL CENTER IN NEWARK, NJ
Daisuke Harada & Atsushi Kotoge vs. Taka Michinoku & Taichi for GHC jr. tag titles
Taiji Ishimori vs. Kenou for GHC jr. title
Lance Archer & Davey Boy Smith Jr. vs. Mohammed Yone & Katsuhiko Nakajima for GHC tag titles
Minoru Suzuki vs. Go Shiozaki
Naomichi Marufuji vs. Takashi Sugiura for GHC heavyweight title
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! The latest video is “Kill that Mole”. A silent film we created a few years ago starring Bryan and Vince.
Coverage of the Royal Rumble and where things lead to WrestleMania is the lead story in a jam-packed news issue of the Wrestling Observer. TNA’s statements regarding A.J. Styles, Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson, the timing, what is accurate, and a lot that wasn’t in those statements as to why the deal didn’t happen. The process that led the stars from New Japan and more. The Cain Velasquez and Fabricio Werdum injuries and title match cancellation and what directions UFC took to try and save it. More on the injury to Hiroshi Tanahashi, the death of Archie “Mongolian Stomper” Gouldie, some stories about his life and career. WWE Hall of Fame class of 2016, New Japan Fantatstica Mania tour with full rundowns and stories behind it, Nikki Bella injury and what led to the increase in ratings for Raw and Smackdown.
The story behind why HHH won the title, why it was the right booking decision given the destination, questions about the execution, the confusing Fast Lane main event, what the original booking plan was behind Roman Reigns ascension to the top and why it was so hard for Vince McMahon to decide against his winning at last year’s WrestleMania, and questions about the crowds at Fast Lane and Mania for the main events. Update WrestleMania, chart out the Royal Rumble with how long everyone was in, eliminations, and news, Rumble business, poll results and match-by-match results with star ratings.
The situation with New Japan losing talent, and how the CMLL stars did on the tour.
The arrival of Shinsuke Nakamura to WWE and why he’s in NXT, an update on Daniel Bryan, NXT finances for talent, another endorsement deal for Dwayne Johnson, notes on the next WWE network live special, updates on NXT talent coming to the main roster, lots of WWE injury notes, WWE plans for post-Mania and the European tour, Lesnar dates, details on NXT tapings as well as details on all the weekend WWE events.
You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer
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.
Eric Bischoff and NBC work out a historic deal to air WCW on NBC, WCW files a lawsuit against WWF over Wrestling With Shadows, plus tons of news.
THURSDAY NEWS UPDATE
Dana White said today that Cain Velasquez will be undergoing back surgery but is expected to make a full recovery in four weeks.
Gypsy Joe has been on a ventilator since last Thursday. Joe had one of the longest wrestling careers in history. He’ll be having a procedure done and try to get him off the ventilator. If that doesn’t work he will be released to hospice care. He was something of a legend in Japan for his willingness to take punishment and for his conditioning into his 60s.
Alberto Del Rio is out of action with a back injury. He was scheduled on WWE’s weekend shows to face Kalisto. The injury came from taking a vertical suplex from Brock Lesnar in the Royal Rumble. He will be reevaluated on Monday in Birmingham.
Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus and Brock Lesnar vs. Luke Harper are now confirmed for the next WWE Network live special on 3/12 from Toronto’s Ricoh Coliseum. There will also be a Highlight Reel with Chris Jericho. A.J. Styles, Paige and New Day will also be on the show.
Abel “Juan” Reynosa passed away this past week at the age of 59. Reynosa wrestled most of his career in his hometown of San Antonio. He got his main career pushes as Taras Bulba working in Tennessee and had a run as a headliner in the latter days of World Class Championship Wrestling, feuding with Jerry Lawler and Kerry Von Erich.
Lucha Underground did 109,000 viewers on Tuesday night on El Rey for the live show and an impressive 85,000 for the immediate replay. Those were the best numbers the show has ever done, which makes sense, because they had more publicity going in than any episode to date, particularly the ESPN hit.
WWE
With Sheamus injured, the scheduled Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus house show main events are now Reigns vs. Rusev (who is now the one man League of Nation) for the WWE title.
Adrian Jaoude, who is a WWE developmental performer from Brazil, who they are grooming to be a major Brazilian star, will be competing in the 2016 Olympics. The WWE web site has a story on him.
Advertised for 2/17 in Fresno is Chris Jericho vs. Bray Wyatt and Ryback & The Dudleys vs. Erick Rowan & Luke Harper & Braun Strowman (thanks to Bryan White)
The March NXT show in Columbus, OH sold out immediately today. That was expected given it’s a small building and it’s the Arnold Fitness Expo weekend.
The stock was up 8 cents today to close at $17.90.
Bethe Correia vs. Raquel Pennington has been added to UFC’s next FOX show on 4/16. Correia is coming off a loss to Ronda Rousey that was a huge PPV success.
MISCELLANEOUS
Hiroshi Tanahashi did worktoday’s New Japan show in Tokorozawa. He dislocated his shoulder last week but is refusing to take any time off.
WaleMania II was officially announced for 3/31 at Winston’s Supper club in Dallas. Tickets go on sale Monday at www.MLW.com andwww.WaleMania.EventBrite.com There will be a live podcast with Konnan, Court Bauer and Mister Saint Laurent. From 8-9 p.m. for VIP ticket holders only there will be a meet and greet cocktail party with a special guest to be announced (may be a big one), red carpet arrival and first access to the venue for a seat for the podcast. The podcast for VIP & GA ticket holders will be 9-11 p.m. with a live Q&A with fans. 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. will be an after party featuring a Wale concert. Many major names from pro wrestling will be there. VIP tickets are $50 and GA are $15. You must be 21 or older to attend and you will be ID’d.
Lucha Underground debuts in Canada. It will be on TLN Sunday at 10 p.m. Eastern., with the episode that aired in the U.S. on Wednesday
Kurt Angle is publicly campaigning for Marco Rubio for president.
Raquel of TNA, real name Gabi Castrovinci from Tough Enough, is now training in Orlando at the Team Vision Dojo. They’ve been filming her for a possible TV show.
Tuesday night CMLL results from Guadalanjar: Furia Roja & Carlos Roggi b Explosivo & Star Black, Canelo Casas & Metalico & Rafaga b Magnum & Magnus & Oro Jr., Fuego & Guerrero Maya Jr. & The Panther b Cuatrero & Forastero & Sanson, Dragon Lee & Mistico & Volador Jr. b Mephisto & Ephesto & Luciferno, Marco Corleone & La Mascara & Rush b Dragon Rojo Jr. & Kraneo & Thunder (thanks to Kris Zellner)
Sean Wheelock, a regular guest of our show, will be announcing the Victory Fighting Championships tonight on UFC Fight Pass at 10 p.m.
If you’re planning on attending Wrestlemania 32 and would like to be part of the Empire fun, please contact our self appointed Executive Director of events, Eddie Loredo for more information. You can contact him directly at f4wfan@hotmail.com – Or check out our Empire Get-Together section on the BOARD~!
Welcome to F4WOnline.com’s live coverage of the UFC On FOX 18: Johnson vs. Bader weigh-ins from the Prudential Center at the MGM Grand in Newark, New Jersey. The fighters will hit the scale at 4 PM eastern time. The card airs on Saturday with the main card on FOX at 8 PM eastern time. Preliminary card action kicks off at 3:30 PM eastern time on UFC Fight Pass before heading over to FOX Sports 1 at 5 PM eastern time with additional preliminary bouts. This will be the Octagon’s seventh visit to Newark.
The event is headlined by a title eliminator bout in the UFC’s light heavyweight division as #2 ranked Anthony “Rumble” Johnson takes on #4 ranked Ryan Bader, winner of five straight fights. In the co-main event, it will be a pivotal bout in the heavyweight division as former UFC Heavyweight Champion and #8 ranked Josh Barnett takes on #7 ranked Ben Rothwell. Also on the main card is the FOX network debut of rising 19-year-old prospect Sage Northcutt, who meets Bryan Barberena in a welterweight bout.
MAIN CARD (FOX- 8 PM ET/5 PM PT): Anthony Johnson (205.25) vs. Ryan Bader (205) Josh Barnett (241) vs. Ben Rothwell (265) Iuri Alcantara (135.25) vs. Jimmie Rivera (135) Sage Northcutt (170) vs. Bryan Barberena (170)
PRELIMINARY CARD (FOX SPORTS 1- 5 PM ET/2 PM PT): Tarec Saffiedine (169.75) vs. Jake Ellenberger (170) Olivier Aubin-Mercier (155) vs. Carlos Diego Ferreira (156) Rafael Natal (185) vs. Kevin Casey (185.25) Dustin Ortiz (125) vs. Wilson Reis (126) George Sullivan (171) vs. Alexander Yakovlev (171) Alex Caceres (145) vs. Masio Fullen (145)
PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC FIGHT PASS- 3:30 PM ET/12:30 PM PT): Matt Dwyer (169) vs. Randy Brown (171) Damon Jackson (145) vs. Levan Makashvili (145) Tony Martin (155) vs. Felipe Olivieri (155)
St. Louis, Missouri: – World Heavyweight Champion Gus Sonnenberg beat Frank Jorgenson – Joe “Toots” Mondt beat Dick Daviscourt – Nick Lutze beat Pat McGill – Roy Steele beat Tom Draak
1963
Jacksonville, Florida: – One Night Tournament for the World Tag Team Title: Karl & Kurt Von Brauner defeated Yukon Eric & Don Curtis to win the World Tag Team Titles – Reg Parks defeated Russian Crusher – Lou Bastein defeated Pedro Godoy – Dale Lewis defeated Marco Polo
1966
Omaha, Nebraska: – Cage Match: AWA Champion Mad Dog Vachon beat Mr Wrestling Tim Woods – Reggie Parks & Mighty Igor Vodik beat Nebraska Tag Team Champions Mitsu Arakawa & Haru Sasaki dq – Mad Russian Stan Pulaski beat Billy Red Cloud – Ivan Kalmikoff drew Danny Plechas
1975
Miami Beach, Florida: – Florida Title: Cowboy Bill Watts defeated The Mongolian Stomper (Lou Thesz special ref) – North American Title: Bob Armstrong defeated Terry Funk – Tony Parisi & Dominic DeNucci defeated Dick Slater & Bob Roop
1976
Kansas City, Kansas: – Akio Sato defeated Rick McGraw – Bob Geigel defeated Tank Patton – Ray Candy & Johnny Loyal defeated Ripper Collins & Percival A. Friend – Bob Brown & Ed Wiskoski fought Mike George & Pat O’Connor to a double-DQ – Ron Bass & Dutch Mantell defeated Jerry Oates & Ted Oates
1981
Biloxi, Mississippi: – Junkyard Dog & Killer Karl Kox defeated Ernie Ladd & Leroy Brown to win the Mid-South Wrestling Tag Team Titles
1983
San Juan, Puerto Rico: – Pierre Martel defeated Mad Dog Lafaib to win the WWC North American Heavyweight Title
1986
Orlando, Florida: – Cocoa Samoa & Hector Guerrero defeated Cuban Assassin & Prince Iaukea – Kendall Windham beat Bob Roop – Joe Savoldi & Mike Graham drew Kevin Sullivan & Purple Haze – Jesse Barr defeated Abdullah The Butcher by dq – Wahoo McDaniel defeated “Nature Boy” Ric Flair
1993
Dallas, Texas: – The Bad Breed (Axl & Ian Rotten) defeated John Hawk (JBL) & Bobby Duncum Jr. to win the Global Wrestling Tag Team Titles
1996
Canton, Ohio: – Konnan defeated the One Man Gang to win the WCW U.S. Heavyweight title
1998
Raleigh, North Carolina: – Steve Corino defeated Joey Matthews to win the SCW Light Heavyweight title in a ladder match
1999
Memphis, Tennessee: – Baldo (Albert/A-Train/Matt Bloom) defeated Jerry Lawler in a tournament final to become the first Memphis Power Pro Wrestling Heavyweight Champion
2011
Wrestle Reunion: Los Angeles, California: – Claudio Castagnoli (Cesaro) defeated El Generico (Sami Zayn) to retain the PWG title – Low Ki defeated Davey Richards – Roddy Piper won a legends battle royal
2012
Royal Rumble: St. Louis, Missouri – World Title Steel Cage Match: Daniel Bryan defeated Mark Henry and Big Show to retain the title – WWE Title Match: CM Punk beat Dolph Ziggler to retain the title – Sheamus won the Royal Rumble
There’s a big weekend coming up of events, including TNA tapings in the U.K., New Japan having Shinsuke Nakamura’s last match which airs late tomorrow/early Saturday our time live on New Japan World, Pro Wrestling NOAH has a big show, UFC has a show on FOX and Lucha Underground will be taping Ultima Lucha season two.
SMACKDOWN TONIGHT AT 8 P.M. ON USA NETWORK
Dolph Ziggler & Titus O’Neil & Usos vs. New Day & The Miz
Kalisto vs. Neville for the U.S. title
A.J. Styles vs. Curtis Axel
Charlotte vs. Natalya non-title
Chris Jericho & Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose vs. Bray Wyatt & Erick Rowan & Luke Harper
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! The latest video is “Kill that Mole”. A silent film we created a few years ago starring Bryan and Vince.
Coverage of the Royal Rumble and where things lead to WrestleMania is the lead story in a jam-packed news issue of the Wrestling Observer. TNA’s statements regarding A.J. Styles, Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson, the timing, what is accurate, and a lot that wasn’t in those statements as to why the deal didn’t happen. The process that led the stars from New Japan and more. The Cain Velasquez and Fabricio Werdum injuries and title match cancellation and what directions UFC took to try and save it. More on the injury to Hiroshi Tanahashi, the death of Archie “Mongolian Stomper” Gouldie, some stories about his life and career. WWE Hall of Fame class of 2016, New Japan Fantatstica Mania tour with full rundowns and stories behind it, Nikki Bella injury and what led to the increase in ratings for Raw and Smackdown.
The story behind why HHH won the title, why it was the right booking decision given the destination, questions about the execution, the confusing Fast Lane main event, what the original booking plan was behind Roman Reigns ascension to the top and why it was so hard for Vince McMahon to decide against his winning at last year’s WrestleMania, and questions about the crowds at Fast Lane and Mania for the main events. Update WrestleMania, chart out the Royal Rumble with how long everyone was in, eliminations, and news, Rumble business, poll results and match-by-match results with star ratings.
The situation with New Japan losing talent, and how the CMLL stars did on the tour.
The arrival of Shinsuke Nakamura to WWE and why he’s in NXT, an update on Daniel Bryan, NXT finances for talent, another endorsement deal for Dwayne Johnson, notes on the next WWE network live special, updates on NXT talent coming to the main roster, lots of WWE injury notes, WWE plans for post-Mania and the European tour, Lesnar dates, details on NXT tapings as well as details on all the weekend WWE events.
You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer
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.
Hiroshi Tanahashi is planning on working the upcoming New Japan tour. It used to be considered a sign of toughness in another era to do that. Today, the sign of toughness is the ability to admit when you’re hurt and make the tough decision to take time off. He’s in a lot of pain, and will be working lots of tags and trying to get through it.
TNA announced that Will Ospreay vs. Mark Andrews would take place on tomorrow’s TV tapings in Manchester, England. I hope they give them time because they’ll put on a fantastic TV match.
WWE and 2K announced a new multi-year exclusive contract giving 2K worldwide rights to develop and publish WWE video game properties across all major platforms. They will continue to do WWE 2K and WWE Super Card franchises.
A pre-sale for WWE Axxess tickets starts Monday at 9 a.m. Central time.
A pre-sale for the final Raw and Smackdown prior to WrestleMania, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, is on right now through tomorrownight at 10 p.m. You need the code BKRAW. HHH, Brock Lesnar, Roman Reigns, Dean Ambrose, Sheamus, Kevin Owens and Alberto Del Rio are the listed stars.
WWE Studios and Blumhouse Production have bought a new indie movie called “Sleight”, a science fiction thriller about a street magician in New York. WWE Studio officials saw the movie at Sundance and decided to get involved.
WWE stock was up 25 cents per share today to close at $17.82.
Battarelli Research yesterday published an analysis saying “WWE is about to get body slammed.”
The upcoming show in Magdeburg Germany is sold out, in a small arena (thanks to Bronco Groen)
A 3/15 show in Asbury Park, NJ for the NXT brand is sold out.
Wale attended the WWE show on Monday night in Miami. He took photos with Vince McMahon, HHH and Dwayne Johnson.
Announced for 3/19 in White Plains, NY at the Westchester County Center
Big Show vs. Bray Wyatt
Kalisto vs. Alberto Del Rio for the U.S. title
Dudleys & Kane vs. Braun Strowman & Erick Rowan & Luke Harper
Johny Hendricks’ Bigg Rigg Steak House in Midlothian, TX closed up after one year.
Bellator has its first show of the year tomorrow night in Fresno at the Save Mart Center, on Spike, headlined by Paul Daley vs. Andy Uhrich.
UFC announced these fights for its 4/10 show in Zagreb, Croatia. Tickets go on sale 2/12
Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Ruslan Magomedov
Igor Pokrajac (from Zagreb) vs. Jan Blachowicz (Poland)
Francis Ngannou (the Paris heavyweight that has a freaky physique) vs. Bojan Mihajiovic (Serbia)
Nicholas Dalby (Denmark) vs. Bartosz Fabinski (Poland)
MISCELLANEOUS
The Saturday night PBC show on FOX ended up doing 2.5 million viewers and peaked at 3.5 million for the Danny Garcia vs. Robert Guerrero main event. I would suspect the UFC numbers on Saturday will be somewhat similar. It was the largest PBC audience in several months.
ROH sent out a release that Shinsuke Nakamura won’t be appearing on their 2/26 PPV show. I think that’s been known since 1/5.
Steve and Colby Corino are headed to Zero-One in March.
NJPW Europe noted it’s your last chance to buy Shinsuke Nakamura King of Strong Style T-shirts
Pro Wrestling Phoenix from last night in Omaha: Branden Juarez DDQ L-Ray, Robert Storm b Mad Dog McDowell, Zac James b Pat Powers, Paul & Joey Daniels b Dalton Lee Roth & Purple, Ariya Daivari b Blue Rocket, Arik Cannon b Mark Sterling to win the PWP title. Next show is 2/13 in Council Bluffs, IA at the National Guard Armory.
Brian Last and David Bixenspan talk to Mongolian Stomper’s friend Beau James, as well as Stampede wrestling author Heath McCoy on the Stomper
Marvelous Puroresu on 2/13 in Elmhurst, NY at the Queensbro Elks Lodge at 4 p.m. with Rocky Romero vs. Amazing Red. Mio Momono make her pro wrestling debut. She’s a highly touted protege of Chigusa Nagayo (the most popular female wrestler of her time), who will also be wrestling on the show. Also appearing are Kyoko Kimura, Renee Michelle, Kimber Lee, Heidi Lovelace, Will Ferrara and Cheeseburger
NWA Mid South on Saturday night in Dyresburg, TN at the Herb Welch Wrestle Plex with Matt Riviera & Rob Conway vs. Jeremy Moore & ? for the NWA world tag team titles and John Saxon vs. Greg Anthony for the National title. Gary Cappetta will be attending as guest ring announcer and to be inducted into the Mid South Hall of Fame.
ECWA on Saturday night in Woodbury Heights, NJ at the Community Center.
Maryland Championship Wrestling on 2/13 in Joppa, MD at the MCW Arena features the Hardy Boys. The main event is King McBride defending the MCW title against Matt Hardy, who will have Jeff Hardy in his corner.
CZW will induct WWE ref and former CZW star Drake Weurtz (Drake Younger) into its Hall of Fame on 2/13 at the show at Flyers Skate Zone in Voorhees, NJ. The main event will be a ladder match with Matt Tremont defending his CZW title against Devon Moore in a ladder match.
NWA Smoky Mountain Wrestling on 2/13 in Kingsport, TN at the Civic Auditorium with Jax Dane vs. Toby Farley for the NWA title.
Capital City Championship Combat on 3/19 in Ottawa at the Vanier Columbus Club.
CHIKARA Pro on 1/30 in Philadelphia at the Wrestle Factory in their season opener.
NWA Parade of Champions on 3/31 in Fort Worth at the Ridglea Theater includes a Jim Cornette Q&A at 3 p.m., A meet and greet from 5-7 p.m. with Sabu, Cornette, Marc Lowrance and Mike McGuirk plus matches with Jax Dane, Ray Rowe, Amber Gallows, Chase Owns, Rob Conway, Matt Riviera and more.
Beyond Wrestling on 1/31 in Somerville, MA have a show that is sold out for a month that features Matt Riddle, Zack Sabre Jr., Chris Hero, Chris Dickinson, Tommaso Ciampa and more.
Rockstar Pro has an iPPV on 2/5 from Dayton headlined by Armageddon Games.
Nova Pro Wrestling on Sunday in Springfield, VA with Sonjay Dutt and the Bravado Brothers at the Annandale Sports Center at 5 pm.
Lucha Libre VOZ on 3/19 at the Arizona State Prepatory Academy in Phoenix with El Hijo del Rey Misterio vs. Rush vs. Bestia 666 vs. Niebla Roja.
Grand Slam Pro Wrestling on 2/6 in Moosic, PA at the Youth Center.
Collector’s Realm at the Dutchess Marketplace in Fishkill, NY has Sami Callihan appearing on Saturday from Noon to 1:30 p.m.; and Jim Duggan on 2/13 from Noon to 2 p.m.
The Laugh It Up Comedy Club at Mahoney’s in Poughkeepsie NY has Jim Duggan doing a show at 6:30 p.m. on 2/13 and Jim Cornette doing a show on 3/5 at 11 p.m.
If anyone has video footage from Buffalo Wrestling Federation out of Las Vegas (also known as Buffalo Jim’s Wrestling), from 1999 to 2004, please contact Roy Lucier at roywarrenlucier@yahoo.com
Nine Legends, a new wrestling film starring Bill Goldberg, Mike Tyson, Bret Hart, Rob Van Dam, Lita, Randy Couture, Ted DiBiase, Dynamite Kid and Chris Jericho is now available to stream at www.ninelegendsfilm.com for just $5. Check out this trailer.
If you’re planning on attending Wrestlemania 32 and would like to be part of the Empire fun, please contact our self appointed Executive Director of events, Eddie Loredo for more information. You can contact him directly at f4wfan@hotmail.com – Or check out our Empire Get-Together section on the BOARD~!
