Paypress testing

Tag: main story

  • Daily Update: Royal Rumble Fallout, UFC 196 cursed, Tanahashi injury

    WWE Royal Rumble Recap

    by Dan Velten

    If you missed last night’s Royal Rumble, you can check out Dave Meltzer’s coverage here. Spoilers: As expected, HHH won the WWE World Heavyweight Championship after entering at number 30 and tossing out DEAN AMBROSE last. Roman Reigns was eliminated 28th by HHH, so we can assume that is the Wrestlemania main event.

    Reigns actually lasted 59:50, nearly catching Rey Mysterio’s longest time record of 62:15. Jericho entered 6th and lasted 50:50 before being eliminated by Ambrose. Braun Strowman eliminated the most men with five total. The big surprise of the match was AJ STYLES entering at number 3. The fans went nuts for styles, who lasted 27:53 until being eliminated by Owens. Sami Zayn was also a surprise entrant at number 20. 

    The only other title change was Kalisto beating Del Rio for the United States Championship. The preshow match was won by Mark Henry and Jack Swagger after Henry unexplainably splashed Bubba Ray and then pinned Viktor. So Henry and Swagger got to enter the Rumble at numbers 22 and 24 respectively. 

    We’re looking for your thoughts on all three nights of Fantastica Mania as well as the Royal Rumble show, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to Dave Meltzer

    We’re also looking for reports from Raw tonight in Miami, with the Superstars matches, dark matches and anything else that wouldn’t be evident from the live show.  WWE is teasing a major return on the show.  Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman are not scheduled for the show.

    Smackdown and Main Event will be taped Tuesday in Tampa.

    We’re looking for your thoughts on all three nights of Fantastica Mania as well as the Royal Rumble show, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to Dave Meltzer

    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!    Our latest show posted to youtube is WOR featuring Jim Ross!

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

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

    The categories are:

    Lou Thesz/Ric Flair Award (Wrestler of the Year), MMA MVP, Most Outstanding Wrestler, Most Outstanding MMA Fighter, Best Box Office Draw, Feud of the Year, Tag Team of the Year, Most Improved, Best on Interviews, Most Charismatic, Best Technical Wrestler, Bruiser Brody Memorial Award (Best Brawler), Best Flying Wrestler, Most Overrated, Most Underrated, Promotion of the Year, Best Weekly TV show, Pro Wrestling Match of the Year, MMA Match of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Best Non-Wrestler, Best Television Announcer, Worst Television Announcer, Best Major Wrestling show, Worst Major Wrestling Show, Best Wrestling Maneuver, Most Disgusting Promotional Tactic, Worst Television Show, Worst Match of the Year, Worst Feud of the Year, Worst Promotion of the Year, Best Booker, Promoter of the Year, Best Gimmick, Worst Gimmick, Best Pro Wrestling Book and Best Pro Wrestling DVD

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

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

    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.

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

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

    MONDAY NEWS UPDATE

    Bryan and I will be back tonight with Wrestling Observer radio, covering Raw tonight, the latest fallout from the Rumble, and the rest of the pro wrestling and MMA news.  You can send questions to the show to mailbag@wrestlingobserver.com

    UFC 196 is officially cursed.  Fabricio Werdum pulled out of the fight today due to injuries.  So there will be no title match nor main event.  Cain Velasquez had pulled out yesterday.  Here is the story.  Ariel Helwani on Twitter wrote that there was still a chance Werdum will fight as he’s going to see a doctor, but it’s not looking good.  It was weird that he said he wouldn’t have pulled out if it was Velasquez, who had been training hard, but would beacuse it’s Miocic, who had basically one week to get in shape for five rounds.  It is a different style matchup at the last minute.

    Federal Judge Kimba Wood today denied UFC’s attempt to get a federal injunction that would bar the New York State attorney general’s office from stopping the proposed 4/23 show in Madison Square Garden.  If the injunction was granted, the show would be on.  Without it, they would need approval from the attorney general’s office that the show would be allowed, which is difficult with the laws as they are in place and the new bill to legalize professional MMA in New York not yet being passed.  The court said that UFC has the right to sue over whether the law should be legal as it is, but the judge would not issue an injunction to allow the show with the current law in place.  

    Nikki Bella will be undergoing neck surgery on Wednesday, saying to E! that she has a pretty bad herniated disc, and said it’s more difficult than most with the same injury.  “We’re gonna pray that the doctors can get the piece behind my vertebrae with just a bone fusion.”  She said she’s been hurting since July and in October, looked into it, and after getting an MRI, had stopped working.  She said she’ll probably know after surgery if she’ll be able to return at some point and will have an idea of when six months later.

    There is nothing new on the Hiroshi Tanahashi injury. He was expected to see a doctor today regarding the shoulder he dislocated in a six-man tag team match yesterday.  As noted last night on the radio show, this injury came at a time New Japan can least afford it.  Tanahashi & Hirooki Goto & Katsuyori Shibata were to face Shinsuke Nakamura & Kazuchika Okada & Tomohiro Ishii in the All-Star match on 1/30 at Korakuen Hall  in Tokyo which is a major show in Japan because it’s Nakamura’s last bout with the promotion.  So it appears the last Tanahashi vs. Nakamura confrontation was last night.

    Dwayne Johnson announced an endorsement deal with Under Armour and work with them to create a range of footwear, apparel and accessories and support the company’s fitness initiatives.  They will also develop products based on movies Johnson is working on, including a Rock backpack and duffel bag that will hit stores in a few weeks. 

    WWE

    • Ryan Satin has a story on A.J. Styles signing with WWE and maintaining his name.
    • WWE announced a partnership today with the Boys & Girls Club of America.  It was a multi-year deal focusing on bully prevention and the Be a Star alliance.  The WWE performers will participate in anti-bullying rallies in local clubs across the country and distribute Be a Star resources and materials.
    • Stardust tweeted out today that “Stardust is coming to an end.”  I believe he later deleted it.
    • For those who asked, Chris Jericho didn’t suffer a broken nose in the Rumble, but did get a bloody nose shortly after he got in the match.
    • WWE stock was up 55 cents per share to  $17.29 today. 
    • The premiere of the new WWE Network show “Ride Along,” will air tonight after Raw.
    • As far as the John Cena movies go, Daddy’s Home was No. 8 for the weekend at $5.27 million and Sisters was No. 11 at $3.5 million.  In Australia, Sisters was No. 6 and Daddy’s Home was No. 8 (thanks to James Stanios)
    • HHH has been added to the advertising at some upcoming RAW shows. 
    • The WWE is once again doing the WrestleMania reading challenge to win free tickets to WrestleMania in Dallas. 

    UFC

    • Anthony Perosh, who may have been the oldest fighter on the UFC roster with the exception of Dan Henderson, announced his retirement yesterday.  Perosh was a ground specialist who was featured when UFC ran in Australia.

    MISCELLANEOUS

    • ROH sent out a Tweet with The Young Bucks, Karl Anderson, Doc Gallows and A.J. Styles posed together with a message saying how “now everyone will find out how phenomenal he really is,” which was a classy way to do things.
    • C4 Wrestling on Saturday night in Ottawa before a turn away crowd of 420:  Deeno Benjamin b Marc Mercer, Cuts n Guts & Sebastian Suave b Fight or Flight &Kevin Dunn, Velvet Jones b Decker Lockhart, Twiggy & Space Monkey b Michael Von Payton & Vanessa Kraven, Evil Uno b Jaka, Joey Janela b Viking, Cecil Nyx and Evan Adams in a four-way, Buxx Belmar & Thomas Dubois b Pinkie Sanchez & Chris Dickinson, Stuff Grayson won three-way over 2 Cold Scorpio and Brent Banks, Mathieu St. Jacques b Speedball Mike Bailey.  Next show is 2/26 (thanks to Patric Laprade)
    • Classic Championship Wrestling in Chatham, ONT on 3/6 at 2 p.m. at the WISH Centre.
    • CWE on 3/11 in Winnipeg at Rookie’s Sports Bar.
    • Metro Pro Wrestling on 1/30 in Kansas City, KS at the Turner Rec Center with Jeremy Wyatt vs. The Beer City Bruiser for the Metro Pro title and Tracy Smothers vs. Math Magician.
    • IWF Winter Warfare on 1/30 at the IWF Centre in Nutley, NJ.
    • Pure Wrestling Alliance on 3/6 in Kitchener, ONT at the Registry Theater.

    Ed Loredo has set up a bus for WrestleMania weekend for readers going to Dallas.  The first bus sold out immediately so there may be a second bus added.  For more info contact him at f4wfan@hotmail.com

    ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY: Daily pro wrestling history (01/25): Royal Rumble winners, Steiner Brothers win WCW World Tag Team Titles

  • Daily Update: Archie Gouldie dead at 78, AJ Styles to WWE at Royal Rumble?

    Archie “The Mongolian Stomper” Gouldie Dead at 78

    Stemming from complications after a hip replacement surgery from which he never recovered, Archie Gouldie passed away at about noon today. Gouldie was a big time star in Canada and various Southeastern promotions, where he worked as a big man / monster heel character. Bryan and Dave have a breaking audio update on this story, and on AJ Styles dealing with TNA as he’s headed to WWE here.

    Today’s ROH show in Duluth, GA is still on as of this writing. 

    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!    Our lastest show posted to youtube is WOR featuring Jim Ross!

    For this weekend, we’ll be doing polls on all three Fantatstica Mania shows from Korakuen Hall on New Japan World including today’s show at Dave Meltzer

    Today, WWE has a house show in Fort Myers, FL with Roman Reigns, Kane, Bray Wyatt, Alberto Del Rio, Rusev, Kevin Owens, Chris Jericho and others; ROH in Duluth, GA at the Infinite Energy Center (War Machine vs. Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows for ROH tag title, Jay Lethal vs. Matt Jackson for ROH title, Roderick Strong vs. Nick Jackson for TV title, ACH & Matt Sydal & Alex Shelley vs. Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly & Michael Elgin; Rhett Titus & Kenny King vs. Cheeseburger & Moose; Adam Cole vs. Stevie Richards; Adam Page vs. Frankie Kazarian vs. Will Ferrara vs. Silas Young vs. Caprice Coleman vs. Jay Briscoe, Mark Briscoe vs. Cedric Alexander and Corey Hollis vs. Dalton Castle); Evolve from Orlando as they continue the tag team tournament on iPPV at www.wwnlive.com and there is also a joint GFW & PWS show from Rahway, NJ.  We’ll be looking for reports on all these shows at Dave Meltzer

    AAA GUERRA DE TITANES TONIGHT IN MEXICO CITY AT JUAN DE LA BARRERA GYM

    Nino Hamburguesa & Dinastia & Pimpinela Escarlata vs. Gran Apache & Mini Charly Manson & Black Mamba

    Fabi Apache & Goya Kong & Lady Maravilla vs. Lady Shani & Sexy Star & Taya in a lumberjack strap mach

    Australian Suicide & Jack Evans & ? vs. Daga & Parka Negra & Super Fly

    Aero Star & Fenix vs. Mascara Ano 2000 Jr. & Villano IV vs. Averno & Chessman for the No. 1 contender for tag titles

    For the vacant trios titles:  Electroshock & Garza Jr. & La Parka vs. Dark Cuervo & Dark Scoria & Zorro vs. El Hijo del Fantasma & El Hijo de Pirata Morgan & Taurus

    Dr. Wagner Jr. & Psycho Clown vs. Mesias & El Texano Jr. – Winning team faces each other in a singles match at Rey de Reyes for the vacant AAA Mega heavyweight title

    WORLD SERIES OF FIGHTING AT 10 P.M. EASTERN ON NBC SPORTS NETWORK

    Chauncey Foxworth vs. Jaleel Willis

    Jorge Medina vs. Bryce Mitchell

    Teddy Holder vs. Shamil Gamzaov

    Luiz Firmino vs. Caros Fodor

    NEW JAPAN FANTASTICA MANIA LIVE  ON NEW JAPAN WORLD ON LATE TONIGHT/SUNDAY MORNING AT 4:30 A.M. EASTERN AND 1:30 A.M. PACIFIC FROM TOKYO KORAKUEN HALL

    The Panther & Guerrero Maya Jr. vs. Sho Tanaka & Yohei Komatsu

    Tiger Mask & Kushida & Fuego & Stuka Jr. & Titan vs. Gedo & Yoshi-Hashi & Bobby Zavala & Okumura & Hechicero

    Jushin Liger vs. Virus

    Ryusuke Taguchi & Mascara Dorada & Atlantis vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Bushi

    Hiroshi Tanahashi & Dragon Lee & Juice Robinson vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Kazuchika Okada & Barbaro Cavernario

    Mistico vs. Ultimo Guerrero

    Volador Jr. vs Mephisto for NWA welterweight title

    Evolve has a 2 p.m. show from the Downtown Rec Center in Orlando with the finals of the tag team title tournament at www.wwnlive.com

    ROYAL RUMBLE SUNDAY FROM ORLANDO, FLA.

    Royal Rumble match

    Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens last man standing for IC title

    Alberto Del Rio vs. Kalisto for U.S. title

    New Day vs. Usos for tag team title

    Charlotte vs. Becky Lynch for women’s title

    Dudleys vs. The Ascension vs. Jack Swagger & Mark Henry vs. Darren Young & Damien Sandow – winners get into the Royal Rumble

    Raw is Monday night from Miami.  Brock Lesnar is not advertised for Monday’s show but everyone else is scheduled.

    Smackdown and Main Event will be taped Tuesday in Tampa.

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

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

    The categories are:

    Lou Thesz/Ric Flair Award (Wrestler of the Year), MMA MVP, Most Outstanding Wrestler, Most Outstanding MMA Fighter, Best Box Office Draw, Feud of the Year, Tag Team of the Year, Most Improved, Best on Interviews, Most Charismatic, Best Technical Wrestler, Bruiser Brody Memorial Award (Best Brawler), Best Flying Wrestler, Most Overrated, Most Underrated, Promotion of the Year, Best Weekly TV show, Pro Wrestling Match of the Year, MMA Match of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Best Non-Wrestler, Best Television Announcer, Worst Television Announcer, Best Major Wrestling show, Worst Major Wrestling Show, Best Wrestling Maneuver, Most Disgusting Promotional Tactic, Worst Television Show, Worst Match of the Year, Worst Feud of the Year, Worst Promotion of the Year, Best Booker, Promoter of the Year, Best Gimmick, Worst Gimmick, Best Pro Wrestling Book and Best Pro Wrestling DVD

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

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

    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.

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

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

    SATURDAY NEWS UPDATE

    We’ve got a breaking news audio update for members covering both the death of Archie “The Stomper” Gouldie/The Mongolian Stomper and TNA’s statement on the negotiations they claim that AJ Styles, Karl Anderson, and Doc Gallows backed out of. For what it’s worth, what appears to be the Mongolian Stomper vs. Kevin Sullivan match that Dave talked about seeing live on the show is on YouTube and it’s fantastic.

    For subscribers, we are told there is an iOS app called RSSRadio that will allow for members-only podcasting, and unlike Downcast (which is awesome), it is free. Android users have a choice of apps, including BeyondPod and DoubleTwist, but I believe all are paid apps.

    WWE

    • There are WWE production people who are currently stuck in New York City due to the snowstorm.
    • Current odds for the Royal Rumble PPV from fivedimes.com:

    IC: Ambrose -230, Owens +170

    US: Del Rio -455, Kalisto +315

    Divas: Charlotte -190, Lynch +150

    Tag: New Day -170, Usos +130

    4-Way Tag: Dudleys -120, Henry and Swagger +170, Ascension +500, Young and Sandow +500

    Rumble: HHH -150, Reigns +285, Lesnar +360, Wyatt +550, everyone else is beyond +1000 including the Rock, Curtis Axel and D-Von have the longest odds at +20,000

    • It may be worth dropping a bill on Reigns in this one, as the finish is always subject to Vince “vincing out,” especially since everyone is now picking Trips. It also makes no sense for Reigns to lay out HHH if he’s not coming back to win it, but you can toss logic out the window on game day.
    • Former UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson, who’s friends with Daniel Bryan (Bryan trains Brazillian Jiu Jitsu at The MMA Lab, Henderson’s gym), tweeted this yesterday: “Guess who I heard was back??? #DanielBryan, yeah buddy!!! #FakeWrestlingRealAthletes #Respect” Of course, it’s possible he’s either messing with fans or misread Dave’s report about Bryan’s visit to UCLA doctors like a lot of people.

    UFC/MMA

    • Ronda Rousey is the guest star on Saturday Night Live tonight.  The story is that she is expected to come off very well based on what has been written for her.  Many of the writers are casual fans of UFC and so they went out of their way to make her look good on the show. While Holly Holm was in New York City doing media for UFC 197 for the past day or two, she won’t be on the show, as she’s at the Atlanta airport right now, where she bumped into Bill Goldberg.
    • Sage Northcutt (7-0) has a new opponent for next weekend’s UFC on FOX show. Andrew Holbrook had to pull out due to injury and stepping in will be Bryan Barbarena (10-3). Barbarena is 1-1 in UFC and most recently lost a decision to Chad Laprise at UFC 186 last April. This will be a main card fight on FOX and should be a showcase fight for the 19 year old budding superstar Northcutt.
    • World Series of Fighting has a card tonight at 10:00 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network with little to no name value.
    • There is a show available on GFL.TV today, West Coast Fighting Championships – King of Sacramento,  with more star power than some broadcast events. Scott Smith, former Strikeforce main-eventer, is on the card fighting former Bellator fighter Justin Baesman. Christos Giagos and Lewis Gonzalez, who bought fought in UFC in 2015, are also fighting on the show. The main event features Max Griffin (11-2), who tried out for TUF 16 up against David Mitchell (19-5), a 4 fight UFC veteran
    • Earlier today in China, Bibiano Fernandes successfully defended his ONE Championships Bantamweight title with a first round submission due to an armbar over Kevin Belingon. Fernandes is the group’s biggest homegrown star and the highest Worldwide ranked fighter in the company.

    MISC

    • Congratulations to Mark Schultz.  From his Facebook page: Today Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Professor Pedro Sauer proclaimed these simple yet monumental words to me “You are my black belt”. I couldn’t have asked for a better Pedigree. Grand Master Helio Gracie to Rickson Gracie to Pedro Sauer to me. I am humbled.
    • The Evolve card for tonight in Orlando at 8 p.m. at www.wwnlive.com

    Chris Hero & Tommy End vs. Rocky Romero & Trent Baretta

    Johnny Gargano & Drew Galloway vs. Bravado Brothers

    Sami Callihan & Zack Sabre Jr. vs.  Drew Gulak & TJ Perkins

    Caleb Konley & Anthony Nese vs. Team Tremendous

    Matt Riddle vs. Fred Yehi

    Tracy Williams vs. Peter Kaasa

    Ethan Page vs. Tommaso Ciampa

    Ed Loredo has set up a bus for WrestleMania weekend for readers going to Dallas.  The first bus sold out immediately so there may be a second bus added.  For more info contact him at f4wfan@hotmail.com

  • New Japan on AXS Report: New Japan Cup semifinals and finals

    Tonight’s episode will feature the semifinals and finals of the 2015 New Japan Cup, which was held on March 15, 2015 at Hiroshima Sun Plaza Hall.

    First semifinal shown is between Hirooki Goto and Togi Makabe. They only showed a few minutes of highlights, but was as solid as you were gonna get with this time. Goto won after a roll up. It’s usually during these kind of tournaments where they do finishes like that as opposed to their actual finishers.

    Tetsuya Natio & Kota Ibushi followed. This is one of those matches that are four star plus level in New Japan, which is awesome, but isn’t good enough to be truly memorable because it’s been a year of spectacular matches. Rewatching this again made me remember just how great of a worker Ibushi is. He not only has the basics down but he has the flash and charisma in his bouts to really be something. Naito has all of this as well, but of course has switched his style and that’s worked out better for him in recent months. Just a bunch of crazy back and forth moves. Naito did a sick reverse rana on the top rope and Ibushi landed right on his head. He must have Daniel Bryan syndrome or something as one’s body can only take so much damage for so long before there are repercussions. Naito took a ganso bomb. Ibushi finally got the win with a press powerbomb. Terrific match.

    Ibushi in a post fight interview says he can’t lose now, he has to, and will, win.

    Pre-match sitdown interview time! Ibushi talks about how the tournament style works for him the best, as he has to give his all in every match, or else he’ll be eliminated. When talking about Goto, he mentions that his performance and clumsy and straightforward, and would have thought the same if he would have faced Makabe in the finals.

    The finals aired next. Really good match, though not as dynamic as the previous match. It was stiff and unpleasant to watch at times, but Ibushi’s timing is excellent and Goto has always been top notch in these kind of performances. The crowd was hot for everything and helped a lot too. Lots of back and forth action, especially towards the latter stages of the game where Ibushi was coming up with a lot of cool reversals and nearfalls. Eventually, Ibushi scores the big win with a phoenix splash and pins Goto to win the New Japan Cup.

    After the match, announcer Shinpei Nogami asks Ibushi what title he would like to challenge for. Ibushi says he wants to challenge for all of them, but he wants to fight AJ and wants that title shot. He says he’ll beat AJ and thanks everyone for coming.

    In his post match interview, he thanks Goto & Naito for their performances tonight. He wants to answer back for the fans’ support as they are always supporting him, so he’ll do his best against AJ. In the reflective interview, he had always wanted a shot at the IWGP title, so he challenged for it. 

    Good show. All three matches were good, with the last two being pretty good to great. 

  • Daily Update: Dangerous weather cancels wrestling shows, UFC 197 tickets

    Nasty weather cancels a number of wrestling shows

    There have been quite a few cancellations of weekend wrestling shows on the east coast due to a predicted crazy winter storm. We have a few updates. The biggest show of note to be cancelled is tonight’s ROH show in North Carolina. Tomorrow’s ROH show in Duluth, GA is still on as of this writing. 

    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!    Our lastest show posted to youtube is WOR featuring Jim Ross!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=videoseries

    We’re looking for reports tonight from the NXT tapings in Orlando at the University of Central Florida Gym at Dave Meltzer  The top matches are Finn Balor vs. Neville for the NXT title, Sami Zayn vs. Samoa Joe for the No. 1 contender position and Bayley vs. Carmella for the NXT title.  We’ll get a good read on where they are going for the Takeover show tonight.  Austin Aries is backstage at the show.

    We’re also looking for reports on the GFW show tonight in Poughkeepsie.  The original main event of Nick Aldis vs. Bobby Roode for the GFW title will have to be changed because Roode will be unable to get into Poughkeepsie.

    For this weekend, we’ll be doing polls on all three Fantatstica Mania shows from Korakuen Hall on New Japan World including today’s show at Dave Meltzer

    EVOLVE IPPV TONIGHT AT 9 P.M. EASTERN AT WWW.WWNLIVE.COM FROM THE ORPHEUM IN YBOR CITY, FL.

    First round matches in weekend long Evolve tag team tournament

    Sami Callihan & Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Chris Hero & Tommy End

    Caleb Konley & Anthony Nese vs. The Bravado Brothers

    Rocky Romero & Trent Baretta vs. Team Tremendous (Dan Barry & Bill Carr)

    Johnny Gargano & Drew Galloway vs. Drew Gulak & TJ Perkins

    Matt Riddle vs. Fred Yehi

    Tracy Williams vs. Peter Kassa

    Ethan Page vs. PJ Black

    NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING TONIGHT AT 9 P.M. EASTERN/6 P.M. PACIFIC  ON AXS TV

    Togi Makabe vs. Hirooki Goto in New Japan Cup semifinals

    Kota Ibushi vs. Tetsuya Naito in New Japan Cup semifinals

    Finals of New Japan Cup

    CMLL LIVE FROM ARENA MEXICO TONIGHT AT 9:30 P.M. AT WWW.CLAROSPORTS.COM

    Starman & Stigma vs. Escandalo & Sangre Azteca

    Blue Panther Jr. & Delta & Triton vs. Misterioso Jr. & Puma King & Sagrado

    Angel de Oro & Maximo Sexy & Valiente vs. Ephesto & Kraneo & Luciferno

    Blue Panther vs. Ripper

    Euforia & Gran Guerrero & Niebla Roja vs. Thunder & Polvora & Dragon Rojo Jr.

    Rush & La Mascara & Marco Corleone vs. El Terrible & Negro Casas & Rey Bucanero  

    LEGACY FIGHTING TONIGHT FROM THE ARENA THEATER IN HOUSTON AT 10 P.M. EASTERN/7 P.M. PACIFIC ON AXS TV

    Jeremy Hardy (255) vs. Dale Mitchell (264.6)

    David Acosta (126) vs. Roberto Sanchez (125.7)

    Michael Rodriguez (145.3) vs. Alex Black (145.1)

    Charles Cheeks III (147) vs. Rey Trujillo (150.2)

    Jonathan Harris (155.2) vs. Justin Reiswerg (155.5)

    Jared Chaffee (155.4) vs. Ray Blodget (155.9)

    Evangelista Cyborg Santos (170) vs. Artenas Young (168.8)

    NEW JAPAN FANTATSICA MANIA LIVE ON NEW JAPAN WORLD AT 4:30 A.M. EASTERN AND 1:30 A.M. PACIFIC TIME LATE TONIGHT/EARLY TOMORROW FROM TOKYO KORAKUEN HALL

    Mascara Dorada & Titan vs. Sho Tanaka & Yohei Komatsu

    Kushida & Fuego & Juice Robinson vs. Gedo & Yoshi-Hashi & Hechicero

    The Panther & Guerrero Maya Jr. vs. Bobby Zavala & Okumura for the Arena Coliseo tag team titles

    Ryusuke Taguchi & Stuka Jr. vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Cavernario Barbaro

    Jushin Liger & Atlantis & Tiger Mask vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Bushi

    Dragon Lee vs. Virus for CMLL world lightweight title

    Hiroshi Tanahashi & Volador Jr. & Mistico vs. Kazuchika Okada & Ultimo Guerrero & Mephisto

    Saturday has a WWE house show on Fort Myers, FL with Roman Reigns, Kane, Bray Wyatt, Alberto Del Rio, Rusev, Kevin Owens, Chris Jericho and others; ROH in Duluth, GA at the Infinite Energy Center (War Machine vs. Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows for ROH tag title, Jay Lethal vs. Matt Jackson for ROH title, Roderick Strong vs. Nick Jackson for TV title, ACH & Matt Sydal & Alex Shelley vs. Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly & Michael Elgin; Rhett Titus & Kenny King vs. Cheeseburger & Moose; Adam Cole vs. Stevie Richards; Adam Page vs. Frankie Kazarian vs. Will Ferrara vs. Silas Young vs. Caprice Coleman vs. Jay Briscoe, Mark Briscoe vs. Cedric Alexander and Corey Hollis vs. Dalton Castle); Evolve from Orlando as they continue the tag team tournament on iPPV at www.wwnlive.com and there is also a joint GFW & PWS show from Rahway, NJ.  We’ll be looking for reports on all these shows at Dave Meltzer

    AAA GUERRA DE TITANES ON SATURDAY NIGHT IN MEXICO CITY AT JUAN DE LA BARRERA GYM

    Nino Hamburguesa & Dinastia & Pimpinela Escarlata vs. Gran Apache & Mini Charly Manson & Black Mamba

    Fabi Apache & Goya Kong & Lady Maravilla vs. Lady Shani & Sexy Star & Taya in a lumberjack strap mach

    Australian Suicide & Jack Evans & ? vs. Daga & Parka Negra & Super Fly

    Aero Star & Fenix vs. Mascara Ano 2000 Jr. & Villano IV vs. Averno & Chessman for the No. 1 contender for tag titles

    For the vacant trios titles:  Electroshock & Garza Jr. & La Parka vs. Dark Cuervo & Dark Scoria & Zorro vs. El Hijo del Fantasma & El Hijo de Pirata Morgan & Taurus

    Dr. Wagner Jr. & Psycho Clown vs. Mesias & El Texano Jr. – Winning team faces each other in a singles match at Rey de Reyes for the vacant AAA Mega heavyweight title

    WORLD SERIES OF FIGHTING AT 10 P.M. EASTERN ON NBC SPORTS NETWORK

    Chauncey Foxworth vs. Jaleel Willis

    Jorge Medina vs. Bryce Mitchell

    Teddy Holder vs. Shamil Gamzaov

    Luiz Firmino vs. Caros Fodor

    NEW JAPAN FANTASTICA MANIA LIVE  ON NEW JAPAN WORLD ON LATE SATURDAY NIGHT/SUNDAY MORNING AT 4:30 A.M. EASTERN AND 1:30 A.M. PACIFIC FROM TOKYO KORAKUEN HALL

    The Panther & Guerrero Maya Jr. vs. Sho Tanaka & Yohei Komatsu

    Tiger Mask & Kushida & Fuego & Stuka Jr. & Titan vs. Gedo & Yoshi-Hashi & Bobby Zavala & Okumura & Hechicero

    Jushin Liger vs. Virus

    Ryusuke Taguchi & Mascara Dorada & Atlantis vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Bushi

    Hiroshi Tanahashi & Dragon Lee & Juice Robinson vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Kazuchika Okada & Barbaro Cavernario

    Mistico vs. Ultimo Guerrero

    Volador Jr. vs Mephisto for NWA welterweight title

    Evolve has a 2 p.m. show from the Downtown Rec Center in Orlando with the finals of the tag team title tournament at www.wwnlive.com

    ROYAL RUMBLE SUNDAY FROM ORLANDO, FLA.

    Royal Rumble match

    Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens last man standing for IC title

    Alberto Del Rio vs. Kalisto for U.S. title

    New Day vs. Usos for tag team title

    Charlotte vs. Becky Lynch for women’s title

    Dudleys vs. The Ascension vs. Jack Swagger & Mark Henry vs. Darren Young & Damien Sandow – winners get into the Royal Rumble

    Raw is Monday night from Miami.  Brock Lesnar is not advertised for Monday’s show but everyone else is scheduled.

    Smackdown and Main Event will be taped Tuesday in Tampa.

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

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

    The categories are:

    Lou Thesz/Ric Flair Award (Wrestler of the Year), MMA MVP, Most Outstanding Wrestler, Most Outstanding MMA Fighter, Best Box Office Draw, Feud of the Year, Tag Team of the Year, Most Improved, Best on Interviews, Most Charismatic, Best Technical Wrestler, Bruiser Brody Memorial Award (Best Brawler), Best Flying Wrestler, Most Overrated, Most Underrated, Promotion of the Year, Best Weekly TV show, Pro Wrestling Match of the Year, MMA Match of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Best Non-Wrestler, Best Television Announcer, Worst Television Announcer, Best Major Wrestling show, Worst Major Wrestling Show, Best Wrestling Maneuver, Most Disgusting Promotional Tactic, Worst Television Show, Worst Match of the Year, Worst Feud of the Year, Worst Promotion of the Year, Best Booker, Promoter of the Year, Best Gimmick, Worst Gimmick, Best Pro Wrestling Book and Best Pro Wrestling DVD

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

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

    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.

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

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

    FRIDAY NEWS UPDATE

    Tickets went on sale today for UFC 197 on 3/5, with Rafael dos Anjos vs. Conor McGregor and Holly Holm vs. Miesha Tate.  As of earlier today, there were a few tickets left, but not many.  It’s the highest scaled event in UFC history.

    TNA sent this out regarding having a verbal agreement with A.J. Styles, Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows before they chose WWE instead.  They claimed they all agreed on 12/14 to come and then backed out.  We do know that Anderson & Gallows were expected to come to TNA for the debut on Pop TV but a WWE deal came that changed their mind, and Styles was looking for a guaranteed contract for 2016 with whoever offered the best deal.  Check out the story.

    Hart family member, Smith Hart, has been diagnosed with both bone cancer and prostate cancer.  Our best to him.

    Dana White and Urijah Faber will be on AXS TV’s Inside MMA at about 12:30 a.m. Eastern tonight after the Legacy Fights show.   

    Ed Loredo has set up a bus for WrestleMania weekend for readers going to Dallas.  The first bus sold out immediately so there may be a second bus added.  For more info contact him at f4wfan@hotmail.com

    WWE

    • Smackdown was up 18 percent from last week to 2,757,000 viewers.  Considering it is new on USA and we haven’t established exactly what the usual audience will be, that is a very good sign.
    • WWE stock had a good day, up 79 cents to $16,74 per share to end the week.
    • As expected, NXT will be part of the Arnold Sports Festival in Columbus, OH on 3/5 and 3/6.
    • WWE will debut WWE 24 WrestleMania Silicon Valley right after the Royal Rumble on Sunday.
    • John Cena posted a photo of A.J. Styles on instagram. 
    • Best signature moves in the Royal Rumble

    UFC

    • Ronda Rousey will be hosting Saturday Night Live tomorrow night on NBC.
    • Holly Holm and Miesha Tate are also both in New York today doing media for their fight.  It would make sense for them to be in the audience for the SNL although I’ve heard nothing in that direction.
    • A lightweight fight with Tony Ferguson vs. Michael Johnson has been added to the 3/5 show in Las Vegas. 
    • Matt Mitrione will be undergoing surgery on his broken right orbital bone next week according the MMA Fighting.com.
    • Andrew Holbrook has pulled out of next week’s fight with Sage Northcutt on FOX due to an injury.  Northcutt will instead face Bryan Barbarena in the FOX opener.
    • Nick Diaz will be eating and signing autographs at Hooters in Kennesaw, GA tonight from 6-8 p.m.  Ticket price includes unlimited wings and soft drinks.
    • Nick Diaz will also be doing a seminar from Noon to 4 p.m. tomorrow at Georgia Fitness Pro in Duluth, GA and he will be attending the fights tomorrow night at the electric Cowboy in Kennnesaw, GA.  More Info.

    MISCELLANEOUS

    • Tommy Dreamer’s House of Hardcore has booked a show in Niagara Falls, ONT on 5/7,.
    • Vivid Video, which announced Tammy Sytch signing to do a porn video, already has a trailer up, which tells you the video was shot some time back.  All the stuff about negotiations going on were a public work.
    • Chris DeJoseph talks Lucha Underground
    • The Fight Network has been launched on Vodafone Portugal’s Extended TV package on Ch. 246.
    • The Fight Network will be airing One Championship Dynasty of Champions show at 6:30 a.m. tomorrow morning from Changsha, China and at 10 p.m. Eastern tomorrow night will air World Series of Fighting live from the Fed Ex Forum in Memphis.
    • Championship Wrestling from Hollywood premieres on 2/13 on KOFY-TV in San Francisco in the Saturday at 4 p.m. time slow.
    • CWE tonight in Winnipeg at Rookie’s Sports Bar.
    • Jim Cornette will be appearing on 3/5 at the Laugh it Up Comedy Club in Poughkeepsie, NY with an 11 p.m. show talking about his career in wrestling.  Jim Duggan will also be appearing for a talk show at the club on 2/13.
    • A story on the documentary:  “At What Cost: Anatomy of Professional Wrestling

  • Daily Update: Jim Ross appears on WOR, Rousey SNL promo sketches

    TWO CAN’T MISS F4WONLINE.COM RADIO SHOWS

    In case you missed it Jim Ross is returning to commentating.  This time for NJPW on AXS TV.  Earlier today we posted a FREE WRESTLING OBSERVER RADIO where Jim Ross talks with Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez about the new job and more!

    Also, Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez talk the Wrestling Observer Awards on last night’s Wrestling Observer Radio

    A big weekend coming up with the Royal Rumble on Sunday.  The final TV show leading to the Rumble is Smackdown tonight on USA with:

    Usos & Dolph Ziggler vs. Big E & Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods

    Becky Lynch vs. Alicia Fox

    Ryback vs. Bray Wyatt

    Titus O’Neil vs. Stardust

    Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus & Rusev & King Barrett & Alberto Del Rio in a 1 vs. 4 match

    NEW JAPAN FANTASTICA MANIA IS LIVE ON NEW JAPAN WORLD TONIGHT/TOMORROW MORNING AT 5:30 A.M. EASTERN AND 2:30 A.M. PACIFIC FROM KORAKUEN HALL IN TOKYO

    Fuego & Stuka Jr. vs. Sho Tanaka & Yohei Komatsu

    David Finlay & Jushin Liger & Kushida & The Panther & Guerrero Maya Jr. vs. Gedo & Yoshi-Hashi & Bobby Zavala & Okumura & Hechicero

    Tetsuya Naito & Evil vs. Atlantis & Juice Robinson

    Barbaro Cavernario vs. Titan for Mexican national welterweight title

    Bushi vs. Mascara Dorada for CMLL welterweight title

    Hiroshi Tanahashi & Dragon Lee & Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Kazuchika Okada & Virus

    Mistico & Volador Jr. vs. Ultimo Guerrero & Mephisto

    This is the first of three straight nights of Fantastica Mania shows on New Japan World.

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

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

    The categories are:

    Lou Thesz/Ric Flair Award (Wrestler of the Year), MMA MVP, Most Outstanding Wrestler, Most Outstanding MMA Fighter, Best Box Office Draw, Feud of the Year, Tag Team of the Year, Most Improved, Best on Interviews, Most Charismatic, Best Technical Wrestler, Bruiser Brody Memorial Award (Best Brawler), Best Flying Wrestler, Most Overrated, Most Underrated, Promotion of the Year, Best Weekly TV show, Pro Wrestling Match of the Year, MMA Match of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Best Non-Wrestler, Best Television Announcer, Worst Television Announcer, Best Major Wrestling show, Worst Major Wrestling Show, Best Wrestling Maneuver, Most Disgusting Promotional Tactic, Worst Television Show, Worst Match of the Year, Worst Feud of the Year, Worst Promotion of the Year, Best Booker, Promoter of the Year, Best Gimmick, Worst Gimmick, Best Pro Wrestling Book and Best Pro Wrestling DVD

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

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

    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.

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

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

    THURSDAY NEWS UPDATE

    Ronda Rousey hosts Saturday Night Live this weekend.  Some sketches previewing the appearance.

    The PBC is working with NextVR to bring Virtual Reality to its live show on FOX on Saturday night at 8 p.m.  The show is headlined by Danny Garcia (31-0, 18 KOs) vs. Robert Guerrero (33-3-1, 18 KOs).

    Owner Andy Quildan hints at Revolution Pro talent going to New Japan in 2016

    WWE

    • In case you missed it in yesterday’s update our own David Bixenspan has a great article on Big Show’s attempt to become a heavyweight boxer.
    • Roman Reigns talks the Royal Rumble
    • Becky Lynch interview for a house show in Fort Myers, FL
    • WWE stock closed down 58 cents per share today, to  $15.95.  Most of the stock market is taking it on the chin these days so it’s more of a sign of the economy at large than anything negative on WWE in particular. 
    • There was a question on the radio show regarding whether talent can leave WWE events after their match but before the show is over.  Unless you are a top guy, the answer is no.
    • WWE announced Premium VIP autograph signing schedules at Fan Axxess for WrestleMania

    4/1 at 7 p.m. – Sting

    4/2 at 10 a.m. – Roman Reigns

    4/2 at 3 p.m. – Undertaker

    4/3 at 8 a.m. – Seth Rollins

    Regular VIP signings

    3/31 at 6 p.m. – Dean Ambrose

    3/31 at 8 p.m. – Ric Flair & Charlotte

    4/1 at 5 p.m. – Chris Jericho

    4/2 at 8 a.m. – Superstar Billy Graham

    4/2 at 1 p.m. – Alberto Del Rio and Dudleys

    4/2 at 6 p.m. – Kevin Owens

    4/2 at 8 p.m. – Bray Wyatt

    4/3 at 10 a.m. – Randy Orton

    UFC

    • C.M. Punk is doing media work for UFC before the 2/5 PPV where Mickey Gall, his expected first opponent (provided he wins) makes his debut on the Fight Pass portion of the show against Mike Jackson.  Punk will be ringside for the fight.
    • Punk talks to Kevin Iole
    • Jim Miller vs. Diego Sanchez will be the Fight Pass main event for the 3/5 PPV show in Las Vegas, another example of UFC adding a name value match to the pre-TV prelims.
    • Tickets go on sale tomorrow at 10 a.m for the UFC’s 2/21 show in Pittsburgh at the Consol Energy Center on FS 1.  The top three matches are Donald Cerrone vs. Tim Means at welterweight, Derek Brunson vs. Roan Carneiro and John Lineker vs. Cody Garbrandt.  Tickets are priced from $185 down to $50.
    • The UFC, through Senior Vice President and General Manager of Europe, Middle East and Asia James Elliott, announced a partnership with the British Wrestling Association (that’s amateur wrestling). 
    • Ronda Rousey’s coach, Edmond Tarverdyan, had his corner license revoked.  Greg Savage of Sherdog reported that Andy Foster, the CSAC Executive Director, said it was due to falsifying information on his application.  He is appealing the decision at the 2/2 commission meeting in Los Angeles.
    • Marcin Tybura, who is 13-1 and a former M-1 Challenge heavyweight champion, has signed with UFC.
    • World Series of Fighting on 2/20 in Garden Grove, CA at the Next Level Sports Complex live on NBC Sports Network at 9 p.m. Eastern headlined by Marlon Moraes defending his bantamweight title against Joseph Barajas.  Tickets are on sale now at www.WSOF.com

    MISCELLANEOUS

    • The New York Times talks Gawker selling off a minority stake in its company prior to the Hulk Hogan lawsuit going to trial
    • Adam Copeland (Edge) will be on the 15th edition of CBC’s Battle of the Books in late March, talking about Minister Without Portfolio by Michael Winter.
    • Superstar Seminars on 3/11 at the GXW wrestling school in Richmond, VA featuring Jake Roberts, talking about pro wrestling performance, psychology, promos and character development.  Roberts will be assisted by Mickie James and Nick Aldis.  Everyone at the seminar will also get free admission to Roberts’ talk show at The Beach House Bar and Grill i  Glen Allen, VA that night.  For more info you can e-mail superstarseminars@gmail.com
    • Northeast Wrestling is doing a seminar with Jim Cornette on 3/6 from Noon to 3 p.m. at the Northeast Wrestling training center located at Platinum Fitness in Danbury, CT.  Experienced wrestlers or current wrestling students only, must be 18 years of age.  It’s limited to 30 students who will work a match, do promos and be evaluated by Cornette and owner Michael Lombardi.  These double as tryouts for the promotion  Spots are $50.  For more info call 914-805-6187 or e-mail NEWWrestling@yahoo.com
    • NEW Wrestlefest takes place on 3/4 in Newburgh, NY at the NFA High School with Rey Mysterio, Jerry Lawler, Mick Foley, Matt Hardy, Mandy Leon, Terry Funk and Jim Cornette appearing.
    • CZW and WSU return for a doubleheader on 2/13 in Voorhees, NJ at Flyers Skate Zone, featuring an iPPV for the 7:30 p.m. show.  The afternoon show will have Leva “Blue Pants”
    • Bates vs. Hania the Huntress and Lufisto vs. Jessicka Havok.  The evening show has Matt Tremont vs. Devon Moore in a ladder match and Lio Rush vs. Joey Janela in 2/3 falls.
    • West Coast Fighting Championships on Saturday night in Sacramento at the McCellan Conference Center headlined by a match for the King of Sacrament with Max Griffin vs. David Mitchell at 175 pounds, in a five round fight. 
    • Battlewar on 2/14 in Montreal at Les Foufounes Electriques with all seats $5.
    • Results from Saturday night in Toronto in the Smash vs. CZW show:  Gulak b Tarik, Overdogs b DUB Boys, Courtney Rush b Kimber Lee, D.J. Hyde b Scotty O’Shea, Lio Rush b Kevin Bennett, Jon Gresham b Tyson Dux, Super Smash Brothers & Brent Banks b TV Ready Machines, Johnny Gargano b Sami Callihan to win the Smash title.
    • House of Hardcore on 4/16 at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia has Tommy Dreamer, Rhino, Brian Cage, Sami Callihan and Billy Gunn.  There will also be an Icons of Pro Wrestling convention from9 a.m. to 3 p.m. that will have Shawn Michaels, Tommy Dreamer, Ricky Steamboat, Stan Hansen, Outlaw Ron Bass, Abyss, Billy Gunn, Bill Apter, Justin Credible, Brian Cage, Domino, Kevin Thorn, Maven, Jeannie Clarke, Curt Hawkins, Amber Gallows, Danny Cage, Blue Meanie, Davey Richards, Eddie Edwards, Sabu, Melissa Coates, Little Guido, Marty Jannetty, Rhino, Sami Callihan and Mil Mascaras.
    • Hoosier Pro Wrestling on 2/6 in Columbus, IN at the 4-H Fairgrounds with Flash Flanagan vs. Timmy Danger in a strap match.
    • There will be the annual National Pro Wrestling Day free show on 2/6 in Reading, PA at the Goodwill Beneficial Association, featuring Kimber Lee vs. Mickie James.
    • NWA Smoky Mountain Wrestling no 2/13 in Kingsport, TN at the Civic Auditorium headlined by Jason Kincaid defending his Southeastern title against Vince Brent.
    • Tommy Dreamer vs. Robbie E headlines for Gold Rush on 4/30 in Timmins, ONT.
    • Acclaim Pro Wrestling on 3/5 in Ottawa, ONT at the Dom Polski Polish Combatants Centre featuring new TNA wrestler Courtney Rush.
    • ECWA on Saturday night in Woodbury Heights, NJ at the Woodbury Heights Community Center headlined by Sean Carr vs. Breaker Morant.  Deonna Purrazzo is also wrestling on the show.
    • WAR Wrestling on 1/30 in Lima, OH at the UAW Hall with a wrestling show and a Hall of Famer induction ceremony for Great Wojo, Dr. Jerry Graham Jr., Tarek the Great, Brian Beach, Stamp Lickage, Dexter Dementia and Malcom Monroe.
    • IWF on 4/16 in Nutley, NJ at the Rec Center headlined by Tito Santana and Kevin Knight.
    • Busted Knuckle Pro Wrestling on 2/13 in Niagara Falls, ONT at 6101 North St.
    • Marvelous Puroresu is having a tryout on 2/12 for talent to appear on their show the next day.  They are also looking for talent to work in the U.S. and Japan.  The tryout is at 5 p.m. at the House of Glory school at 564 Woodward Ave., in Ridgewood, NY 1385.  For more info you can e-mail MarvelousPuroresuUSA@@gmail.com  The cost will be $40 and bring an 8×10 photo and wrestling gear.  Referees are also welcome.
    • Latin Thunder talks trainer Scandor Akbar

    ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY:  Daily pro wrestling history (1/21): Crusher/Dick the Bruiser win WWA Tag Team Titles

  • No bounce back for WWE RAW ratings without NFL

    Due to a disastrous third hour, Raw did not have much of a bounce back after the end of football competition.

    Monday night’s show did 3.48 million viewers, only up 160,000 viewers from last week’s show that went up against the national championship college football game.

    On this night was clear what did the show in was the show itself, with major pattern of declines from start to finish, including a third hour that did 3.12 million viewers, a number that would have been considered poor even going against a huge NFL game.

    The show was promoted around building to a Highlight Reel segment where Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns would meet face-to face. No major matches were plugged for hour three.

    The three hours were:

    8 p.m. 3.78 million viewers
    9 p.m. 3.59 million viewers
    10 p.m. 3.12 million viewers

  • Daily Update: Snuka’s trial delayed; Jim Ross returning to commentary?

    We’re looking for reports on tonight’s WWE show in New Delhi, India, NXT in Green Bay, NXT in Cocoa Beach, FL, Five Star Wrestling in Liverpool and ROH in Indianapolis (Briscoes & War Machine vs. Young Bucks & All Night Express, Roderick Strong vs. Curry Man for TV title, Alex Shelley vs. Adam Cole, Frankie Kazarian & Chris Sabin vs. Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly, Moose vs. Silas Young, Will Ferrara vs. Dalton Castle) as well as yesterday’s NXT show in Winter Haven and Five Star Wrestling show in Sheffield, England to Dave Meltzer

    NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING RETURNS TONIGHT AT 9 P.M. ON AXS TV

    The show consists of first round matches from the 2015 New Japan Cup

    Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Toru Yano

    Kazuchika Okada vs. Bad Luck Fale

    Kota Ibushi vs. Doc Gallows

    Tetsuya Naito vs. Karl Anderson

    CMLL FROM ARENA MEXICO LIVE AT 9:30 P.M. AT WWW.CLAROSPORTS.COM

    Rush vs. Caristico (first-time ever singles match)

    Dragon Rojo Jr. & Polvora & Thunder vs. Gran Guerrero & Euforia & Niebla Roja

    RESURRECTION FIGHTING ALLIANCE TONIGHT ON AXS TV AT 10 P.M. EASTERN FROM BROOMFIELD, CO

    Andrew Tenneson (142.8) vs. Cory Sandhagen (145.4)

    Tyler Milner (169.6) vs. Brain Carmozzi (170.4)

    Zac Riley (136) vs. Hugo Viana (135.6)

    Jeremy Kimball (209.4) vs. Cody Mumma (205.6)

    John Poppie (186) vs. Adam Stroup (185.4)

    Benjamin Smith (169.8) vs. Bojan Velickovic (169.4) for the welterweight title

    We’ll be looking for reports on Saturday from WWE shows in New Delhi, India and Charleston, WV (Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens, Alberto Del Rio vs. Kalisto, Tommy Dreamer & Dudleys vs. Wyatt Family), NXT in Chicago (both the afternoon and evening show) and Fort Pierce, FL and ROH in Collinsville, IL (ACH & Alex Shelley vs. Young Bucks, Briscoes vs. Silas Young & Beer City Bruiser, War Machine vs. Frankie Kazarian & Chris Sabin for tag titles, Roderick Strong vs. ? for TV title, Moose vs. Adam Cole, Delirious vs. Dalton Castle, Michael Elgin vs. Adam Page, Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly vs. Rhett Titus & Kenny King).

    INVICTA FROM THE HANGAR AT THE ORANGE COUNTY FAIR IN COSTA MESA, CA ON UFC FIGHT PASS AT 9 P.M. EASTERN

    Megan Anderson vs. Amber Leibrock

    Amanda Bell vs. Ediane Gomes

    Mizuki Inoue vs. Lacey Schuckman

    Angela Hill vs. Alida Gray

    Amber Brown vs. Shino VanHoose

    Raquel Pa’aluhi vs. Colleen Schneider

    Livia Renata Souza vs. DeAnna Bennett for the strawweight title

    Cris Cyborg Justino vs. Daria Ibragimova for the featherweight title

    NEW JAPAN FANTASTICA MANIA DAY ONE ON SUNDAY IN KOCHI (not on New Japan World)

    Kushida & Stuka Jr. vs. Sho Tanaka & Yohei Komatsu

    The Panther & Guerrero Maya Jr. vs. Bobby Z & Okumura

    Fuego & Titan vs. Yoshi-Hashi & Barbaro Cavernario

    Jay White & Dragon Lee vs. Virus & Hechicero

    Juice Robinson & Mascara Dorada & Atlantis vs. Bushi & Evil & Tetsuya Naito

    Volador Jr. & Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Mephisto

    Hiroshi Tanahashi & Mistico & Jushin Liger vs. Kazuchika Okada & Ultimo Guerrero & Gedo 

    Sunday has WWE in Canton, OH (Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens, Alberto Del Rio vs. Kalisto, Tommy Dreamer & Dudleys vs. Wyatt Family).

    UFC FROM THE T.D GARDEN IN BOSTON

    Fight Pass at 6 p.m. Eastern

    Francimar Barroso vs. Elvis Mutapcic

    Rob Font vs. Joey Gomez

    Kyle Bochniak vs. Charles Rosa

    Ilir Latifi vs. Sean O’Connell

    Daron Cruickshank vs. Paul Felder

    FS 1 at 8 p.m.

    Maximo Blanco vs. Luke Sanders

    Tim Boetsch vs. Ed Herman

    Mehdi Baghdad vs. Chris Wade

    Patrick Cote vs. Ben Saunders

    Ross Pearson vs. Francisco Trinaldo

    Travis Browne vs. Matt Mitrione

    Eddie Alvarez vs. Anthony Pettis

    T.J. Dillashaw vs. Dominick Cruz for the bantamweight title

    Raw will be live on Monday night in Columbus, OH.  Brock Lesnar will be appearing on the show.

    NEW JAPAN FANTASTICA MANIA DAY TWO ON TUESDAY IN KYOTO (not on New Japan World)

    Ryusuke Taguchi & Fuego vs. Yohei Komatsu & Sho Tanaka

    The Panther vs. Okumura

    Guerrero Maya Jr. vs. Bobby Z

    Dragon Lee & Jushin Liger & David Finlay & Titan vs. Barbaro Cavernario & Yoshi-Hashi & Virus & Hechicero

    Stuka Jr. & Mascara Dorada & Atlantis vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Bushi

    Mistico & Kushida vs. Ultimo Guerrero & Gedo

    Hiroshi Tanahashi & Volador Jr. & Juice Robinson vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Kazuchika Okada & Mephisto

    Smackdown and Main Event will be taped on Tuesday night in Dayton, OH.

    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!  We have two new quick video clips up on our Youtube page, so check it out and subscribe today for more!

    Figure Four Weekly

    Figure Four Weekly 1/4/2016: More on Gawker motioning to dismiss Hulk Hogan lawsuit

    More information on Gawker’s motion to dismiss Hulk Hogan’s sex tape lawsuit, tons more.

    Wrestling Observer Newsletter

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

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

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

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

    Rundowns of all the WWE & NXT house shows over the weekend and business notes.  Updates on Royal Rumble.

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

    Full coverage of TNA’s tapings and PPV, contract issues, the Matt Hardy situation and what is the short-term future for television.

    Yoel Romero and his potential test failure and how this changes the middleweight division.  Romero’s background, fighter reactions to his test failure.

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

    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.

    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: November 23, 1998 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: WWF Survivor Series review, Rock becomes Corporate Champion
    A full review of WWF Survivor Series with The Rock becoming the Corporate Champion, more WCW woes, plus tons of news.

    FRIDAY NEWS UPDATE

    On the MSL & Kevin Sullivan show on MLW Radio it was reported that Jim Ross is the new host of New Japan World Pro Wrestling Returns.  At this time there is no finalized deal.  The sides have talked for some time and it seems an obvious move for both if they can reach terms.  Mauro Ranallo will be hosting the shows through late February.  So, the new announce team, almost certainly including Josh Barnett, would start at that point. 

    Today’s New York Post reported on Comcast systems pulling Spike, CMT and Pop to higher priced digital tiers.  Although Pop will lose some clearances, they are gaining a substantial amount with other new deals in play.  As you can imagine, Viacom, which owns Spike and CMT, is not happy about this.  

    The New York Post also reported that UFC owners Lorenzo & Frank Fertitta are selling their Fertitta Entertainment management company to Red Rock Resorts (a Fertitta family owned chain of casinos) for $460 million.  Red Rock Resorts is expected to do an IPO.  Frank Fertitta runs both Fertitta Entertainment management and Red Rock Resorts.   Both brothers will get $113 million individually while another $159 million from the sale will go to their kids.

    Jimmy Snuka’s murder trial has been postponed pending a decision on Snuka’s competency to stand trial.

    WWE Hall of Fame tickets sold out immediately today, right after they went on sale to the public.  There are likely to be tickets available later after production is set up. 

    WWE

    • The company has a job listing out for a new Senior Vice President of Human Resources, who will report directly to Vince McMahon.     
    • Big Show appeared last night on Lip Sync Battle on Spike TV as part of Olivia Munn’s entourage performing Taylor Swift’s Bad Blood. (thanks to Grant Zwarych)
    • A story on Stuart Tomlinson who is Hugo Knox in WWE
    • Orlando confirms WrestleMania bid for 2017.

    UFC/MMA

    • Matt Mitrione’s fight with Travis Browne on Sunday is the final fight of his contract.  He said that if Browne smokes him, or he doesn’t get the money he wants, he could easily walk away and get a job in fire fighting.   
    • The annual Fighters Only MMA awards show takes place on 2/5 in Las Vegas at The Venetian Theater.  The show will be taped for FS 2 and FSN.     
    • UFC will have a press conference at 2 p.m. Eastern time (11 a.m. local time) on Wednesday at the MGM Grand Studios in Las Vegas for UFC 197, on 3/5.  Appearing will be Dana White, Rafael dos Anjos, Conor McGregor,  Miesha Tate and Holly Holm.  The event is free and open to the public.
    • Miesha Tate will appear tonight on Inside MMA at about 12:30 a.m. Eastern time to talk about her upcoming fight with Holly Holm.  Also on the show will be Cris Cyborg Justino.
    • Alessio Sakara vs. Brian Rogers is the first fight announced for Bellator’s debut show in Italy on 4/16.  Melvin Manhoef will also be on that show fighting in a kickboxing match.  The show will be a co-promotion of Bellator on Italy-based Oktagon Kickboxing.  A.J. McKee will be fighting in an MMA fight and Kevin Ross (who last I heard was Gina Carano’s boyfriend) will be fighting in a kickboxing match.  

    MISCELLANEOUS

    • WWNLive.com announced today a deal with the Flipps app for their iPPV shows to be available on smart TV’s without additional software, plug-ins or wires.  They have already done PPVs with New Japan, TNA and ROH.  The first show on the deal will be 1/22 and will be airing all three nights of their Evolve tag team title tournament that weekend, as well as the 1/29 Shine (all-women’s show).
    • Johnny Mundo, Carlito, Sonjay Dutt and Chris Masters headline a crew that will appear at a show at a 43,000 seat stadium Al-Khartoum in The Sudan called  Sudan Power Wrestling on 3/11.  (thanks to Liam Core) 
    • As expected, there will be a Kurt Angle vs. Drew Galloway match on the TNA U.K. tour, scheduled on 1/29 in Manchester.
    • Matches announced for the 1/23 ROH show in Duluth, GA at the Infinite Energy Center: Rhett Titus & Kenny King vs. Cheeseburger & Moose, Corey Hollis vs. Dalton Castle, Adam Page vs. Frankie Kazarian vs. Will Ferrara vs. Silas Young vs. Caprice Coleman vs. Jay Briscoe, Mark Briscoe vs. Cedric Alexander, Adam Cole vs. Stevie Richards, Roderick Strong vs. Nick Jackson for TV title, Jay Lethal vs. Matt Jackson for ROH title, War Machine vs. Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows for ROH tag titles
    • NWA Smoky Mountain Wrestling tomorrow night in Kingsport, TN at the Civic Auditorium.
    • The annual Bay Area Battle Royal put on by Big Time Wrestling will be on 1/22 at the Newark, CA Pavilion at 7:30 p.m. featuring JR Kratos and Joey Ryan.
    • Lucha Toronto on 1/24 in Scarborough, ONT at 3107 Danforth Ave. with Octagoncito vs. Espantito, plus Vampiro, L.A. Park, Pantera, El Hijo del Pantera and Lince Dorado. 
    • Empire State Wrestling tomorrow night in North Tonawanda, NY at the St. Johnsburg Fire Hall featuring Curt Hawkins, Cody Deaner, Kevin Bennett and more.
    • Pro Wrestling Phoenix tomorrow night in Council Bluffs, IA at the National Guard Armory headlined by Bob Holly.

    ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY: Daily pro wrestling history 1/15: Rey Mysterio wins WCW Cruiserweight Title

  • WWE Smackdown results (11/26): I.C. Title Number One Contender’s Triple Threat

    – Air Date: November 26, 2015 
    – Location: Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, IN

    The Big News:

    Dean Ambrose became number one contender for Kevin Owens’ Intercontinental Title after defeating Tyler Breeze and Dolph Ziggler. They also set up the Dudleys vs. Wyatts for a tables match and Alberto Del Rio vs. Jack Swagger for a chairs match. 

    Show Recap: 

    Former WWE Champion Roman Reigns came out to start the show as they recapped the story from Survivor Series and Raw. Reigns entered the ring which had tables and ladders and chairs set up inside already, so I guess he cleared this talking segment with the Authority. 

    Reigns said he and the Usos used to wrestle all over the house until they were banned from doing so after one Uso broke a coffee table with the other Uso. Reigns said they wrestled all over the yard and dreamt about becoming WWE Champion, but it always felt like just a dream – until Survivor Series when he won the title. The dream got shattered when Sheamus crushed his face (that’s the phrase he used) with a Brogue kick. 

    Sheamus came out. (They did another bad edit here, like a few weeks ago, where you could hear Sheamus’ entrance start, but on camera the lights didn’t change, and there was no reaction from the crowd or Reigns.) Sheamus told Reigns to get over it because he’s a walking, talking Adele song. He said Reigns has been talking about being champion longer than he actually was champion. 

    Sheamus made bad jokes about how short Roman’s title reign was and said the title looks better on him anyway. He put over Reigns’ effort in the tournament but Reigns’ moment became Sheamus’ moment, and yelled about how great it felt to become champion. Reigns challenged Sheamus to come to the ring so he could show him what he can really do in under five minutes. 

    Sheamus acted like he would go to the ring, but he didn’t. He’s the champion and all Reigns has is broken dreams. Reigns said he would break Sheamus’ jaw with a superman punch, break his back with a chair, powerbomb him through a table, climb the ladder and become champion. This wasn’t good. Sheamus in particular came off like a clown. 

    The Dudley Boyz beat Braun Strowman & Erick Rowan (w/Bray Wyatt & Luke Harper) via DQ

    In an inset promo, Bubba said the Wyatts would “taste some Dudley wood.” Tons of piped in booing during the Wyatts’ entrance. An early highlight in the match was Rowan screaming in D-Von’s face and D-Von just smacked him. Wyatts got the heat on Bubba with help from Harper who superkicked his arm with the referee distracted. 

    D-Von made the hot tag and took out Rowan. It seemed like the Dudleys had the match won but they dumbly went for tables instead. They set one up in the ring but Harper superkicked Bubba for the DQ. Strowman took out D-Von was his standing choke and they put Bubba through the table. Strowman was noticeably bad in this match. 

    Paige beat Becky Lynch via pinfall 

    They showed Charlotte watching the match on TV backstage. Her entire body was facing the camera with her face turned to the TV. They always do this but it looked even dumber than usual here. Becky made her comeback which included an Exploder suplex. She went for the Disarmer but Paige bounced her off the ropes and rolled her up for the pinfall win. 

    Paige tried to get her feet on the rope for leverage but she was too far away. I’m not sure if that was a screw up or not, but Becky basically lost clean. Lawler made sure to mention that Paige tried to use the rope. Match was fine but the crowd didn’t care. 

    Backstage, Big E, Kofi Kingston, Naomi, Sasha Banks and Tamina were at the “1st Annual New Day Potluck Dinner.” Better trademark that one. Big E said he was thankful for tricep meat. Kofi was thankful for the tag-team titles and Big E chanted “Thanks to us” to the tune of “New Day rocks.” Naomi and Sasha danced along. 

    Heath Slater joined and brought some Slater Slaw. Big E noticed a bandaid in his dish. They freaked out and pushed Slater aside. Adam Rose gave them rabbit stew and left. Big E freaked again, thinking it was made of The Bunny, and Kofi yelled “We don’t want this!” (That was the highlight of the segment.)

    Ascension showed up but they didn’t have any food so they got kicked out. Big E and Kofi said Xavier Woods would be bringing the turkey. The Gobbledy Gooker showed up. It was Woods. They chanted “turkey tail” as Woods shook his tail back and forth. 

    Non-Title: Jack Swagger beat US Champion Alberto Del Rio (w/Zeb Colter) via DQ

    Colter called Swagger ungrateful and said he has blind American loyalty. Del Rio said Swagger would be thankful that he let him walk out of the ring after their match. Lame promo. 

    With the match barely under way, Swagger clotheslined Del Rio over the barricade into the timekeeper’s area. He began walking toward Zeb, allowing Del Rio to hit him from behind with a chair for the DQ. Del Rio hit him one more time with the chair and tossed him in the ring. 

    Swagger came back and attacked Del Rio with the chair, getting him about four times in the back. Del Rio ran away, selling his back. This was obviously just an angle to set up a chairs match at TLC. I didn’t really like how little of an effect the chair shots had on both guys. Swagger was fine after getting hit twice and Del Rio walked away on his own and posed with the title on the stage. 

    Backstage, the Usos said they didn’t want to know what “Slater slaw” was. Woods in his Gobbledy Gooker outfit ran by them. The Usos had an idea. 

    Non-Title: Lucha Dragons beat WWE Tag-Team Champions Kofi Kingston & Big E (w/Gobbledy Gooker) via pinfall

    They showed the debut of Gobbledy Gooker in 1990. Lawler made sure to remind everyone that this sucked. Kingston seemed to have the match won on a pinfall attempt with his feet on the rope, but the Gobbledy Gooker pushed him off. Kingston yelled at him and the distraction allowed Kalisto to hit Salida Del Sol for the win. 

    After the match, Kingston and Big E continued to yell at Gobbledy Gooker, who remained outside the ring. An Uso came out on stage blowing an airhorn to the tune of “New Day sucks” and Xavier Woods was with him – in his boxers, hands and legs tied up, and mouth taped shut. Woods tried to say something, so Uso ripped off the duct tape and blew the air horn in his face. This caused Woods to fall and roll down the ramp. 

    They cut to the Gobbledy Gooker outside the ring and the commentators tried to act like they didn’t know who it could be. It was the other Uso. The four babyfaces took out the New Day, concluding with an Uso superkicking a helpless Woods and the other Uso finishing him off with a splash. Lawler was happy to see the Gobbledy Gooker finally get over. 

    They aired a video package for the Undertaker. 

    Backstage, Renee Young asked Dean Ambrose about his luck potentially changing tonight. Ambrose said he pinned Kevin Owens at Survivor Series and that wasn’t luck. Reigns pinned him and that wasn’t luck either – Reigns was the better man on that night. He said Sheamus cashing in wasn’t luck, it was right place, right time. Luck was winning the lottery, and Ambrose said he never won a buck off a scratch card. Ambrose intimated that if he were a betting man, he would bet on himself over Ziggler and Fuzzy Boots McGee. 

    I.C. Title #1 Contender’s Triple Threat Match: Dean Ambrose beat Tyler Breeze (w/Summer Rae) & Dolph Ziggler via pinfall 

    Kevin Owens came out for commentary and faked out a young fan who wanted a high five. Lawler told Owens that Breeze was suing People magazine for naming David Beckham as sexiest man alive. Owens said he almost fell asleep as Lawler said that because he couldn’t care less. As they plugged Raw in Pittsburgh, Ambrose tossed his hoodie at Owens and Owens responded, “I guess he thought he was insulting me, but I’m keeping it, so joke’s on him.” 

    Booker asked Owens who he matches up with best. Owens said he and Ambrose are both brawlers, he and Breeze are both gorgeous, but he has nothing in common with Ziggler and is proud of that. 

    Ambrose hit a rebound clothesline on Ziggler and Breeze tried to steal the pin, but Ziggler kicked out. Ambrose followed with a flying elbow on Breeze for a two count. Ziggler and Ambrose did the double running crossbody spot but they sandwiched Breeze who was caught in the middle. That was cool. 

    Breeze superkicked Ambrose and Ziggler superkicked Breeze for a near fall. Ziggler caught Ambrose with a Zig Zag but Breeze broke up the cover. Breeze hit Ziggler with the Beauty Shot and went for the Unprettier but Ambrose nailed him with Dirty Deeds for the win. Owens seemed displeased. Good match, and Owens was great on commentary. 

    After the match, Ambrose went out to face off with Owens. Ambrose pushed Owens back into his chair. Owens popped up like he was ready to fight but just walked away. 

    Final Thoughts: 

    Really lame show until the main event. 

  • WWE Breaking Ground debut episode: behind the scenes at NXT

    By Ryan Pike

    Key Takeaway —

    The journey of WWE hopefuls through NXT is profiled in this new WWE Network program. The first episode, while a bit unfocused and sanitized, is a pretty strong debut, showcasing several new faces with dreams of WWE stardom.

    Show Recap — 

    We open with a monologue from Triple H, who lists off the attributes that are necessary to be a WWE superstar. But he notes that without an “it factor,” even the best might not make it. He welcomes viewers to their glimpse inside NXT and the journey of their aspiring superstars. “They’re all just one step away from realizing their dreams. But for some, that one step might as well be a mountain. Some will make it. Some don’t. This is WWE Breaking Ground.” (A tad hokey, but for what they’re going for, this was the perfect opening to frame the series.)

    The first NXT superstar we meet is Bayley, as she drives to work. She muses on her journey from being a dreamy 10-year-old wanting to wrestle to being the NXT Women’s Champion. “Sometimes if I’m driving, I’ll look at the person next to me in their car and just wonder, I wonder what they’re doing with their life, if they’re living their dreams?” She arrives at the Performance Center at the same time as Tough Enough winner Josh Bredl, who’s there for his first day and signs his contract. We then transition to a training montage and some WrestleMania clips, and get a glimpse of Adam Pearce shouting encouragement to WWE hopefuls.

    From this point, Breaking Ground focuses on five individuals: former NFLer Tino “Sabby” Sabbatelli, former NFLer Baron Corbin, 19-year-old female wrestler Nhooph, NXT interviewer Devin Taylor and former independent star Apollo Crews. It doesn’t spent a ton of time on any one of them, particularly given that it’s a 30-minute show, but they do their best to paint a picture of each.

    Sabbatelli, real name Sabatino Piscitelli, played college football at Oregon State and spent time with Tampa Bay, Cleveland and Kansas City before turning to pro wrestling following the end of his football career. He signed with NXT in 2014, and is adjusting to being a rookie and having to prove himself after being an established NFLer. He opens the show sidelined after a concussion in his second NXT match.

    Corbin, like Sabbatelli, is a former NFLer who spent time with Indianapolis and Arizona. He’s been in NXT for three years and based on his experience and his resume, he thinks he should be on the main roster already. Jason Albert, interviewed extensively about Corbin, notes the challenge is keeping Corbin focused and motivated.

    Nhooph began training for wrestling at 16 years of age, and recalls having to lie to her parents about going to her job when heading to her first training sessions. We’re told she’s not improving, and get a wonderful montage of her taking awful-looking hip-tosses. She’s been in NXT for awhile, but the coaches don’t think she’s good enough yet to get a match on a live event yet. Finally, she takes a hip-toss properly and the coaches praise her.

    Devin Taylor is NXT’s ring announcer, who is trying to transition from holding a microphone to actually wrestling. However, we’re told she’s had a few injuries that have slowed down her progress, and she’s been leap-frogged by several other females in the mean-time. We get another hiptoss montage as she trains with Nia Jax. (And they’re awful.)

    Apollo Crews is the former Uhaa Nation, though that name isn’t mentioned on this show. He tells a story about his father, who grew up poor in Nigeria and emphasized the importance of needing an education to be successful – the story’s interspersed with clips of Crews on the indies. He shares a story about his dad saying the only way to be successful was by getting an education, and then getting a nice message from his dad after his NXT debut saying how proud he was.

    William Regal leads promo class at the Performance Center, emphasizing the importance of connecting with the camera. We get a montage of NXT kids doing quick promos, and Mojo Rawley does a strong promo and is praised by Regal. The majority of the promos we’re shown aren’t very good.

    Sabbatelli goes through the WWE’s concussion protocol this episode, which we’re given quite a bit of detail about – basically it’s three weeks of no work, followed by them being eased back into ring-work and getting repeatedly monitored for recurring symptoms. He does a mock match at the end of the episode as part of the evaluation.

    Norman Smiley rides with Corbin and his girlfriend to the Gainsville, FL show and we get this exchange: “We do you think you’ll be out of here, NXT?” “The reality is, I don’t know. You’re the coach, you tell me.” Then it’s quiet in the car. Corbin discusses how he’s not well-liked. Mojo jokingly praises Corbin as he eats food. He replies: “Go do some more workouts while I enjoy this. It sure as hell isn’t his wrestling that’s getting him over.”

    We see some clips from the Gainsville show. Nhooph doesn’t get a match and is bummed out. Bayley has a tag match and is praised by Shatner’s voice-over for her efforts regardless of the size of the crowd – and how that’s a good example for the rest of the performers on each show. Corbin is in the main event, teaming with Tyler Breeze in a losing effort against Finn Balor and Samoa Joe.

    The nextday, Nhooph arrives at the Performance Center. Sara Amato chats with her about card adjustments and apologizes for her match getting bumped from a prior show. Amato and Albert chat about Devin, and about whether she has a future after two major injuries in less than a year. Sabbatelli goes through the concussion protocol in the ring. If he fails it, he could be done. Canyon Ceman appears. He’s the recruiter, and notes that the hardest part of the job is when they have to let talent go, leading into a meeting with a talent in which somebody will probably get cut. The cliffhanger is which NXT talent gets the axe: Devin? Nhooph? Sabbatelli? (I believe Devin got released recently in real-life, but I suppose that all three performers could be released next episode.)

    Final Thoughts

    This was a really strong premiere episode. It provides a really fascinating glimpse into the backstage goings-on and challenges facing aspiring WWE performers. That said, it could’ve been stronger had it spend more time with fewer performers. They never really follow up with Apollo Crews or Bayley, and spending that time with the lesser-known performers might’ve established better connections given how the episode ended.

  • WWE SummerSlam 2015 live results: Brock Lesnar vs. Undertaker, John Cena vs. Seth Rollins

    By Dave Meltzer, WrestlingObserver.com

    Welcome to our live coverage of SummerSlam.  We’re looking for your thoughts on tonight’s show and last night’s NXT show, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to dave@wrestlingobserver.com

    Jon Stewart and Mick Foley are opening the show.  Stewart wanted Foley to be his backup because he’s mad at Brock Lesnar for breaking the streak.  Foley referenced The Rock.  Foley said he wouldn’t have come to back him up against Lesnar because he’s afraid of Lesnar.  When Stewart brought up Foley being fearless and his match with Undertaker, Foley said that was 17 years ago.  The skit pretty much ended with both leaving the ring to start the show.

    RANDY ORTON VS. SHEAMUS

    Good match, kind of a surprise how clean Sheamus went over as he got the pin with two Brogue kicks after escaping the RKO.  It looks like the smart money may be accurate here with the long odds that usually end up correct.  They kind of telegraphed it as Orton hit the RKO early but Sheamus rolled out of the ring.  Not as good as their last PPV match.

    PRIME TIME PLAYERS VS. NEW DAY VS. LOS MATADORES VS. LUCHA DRAGONS FOR THE TAG TEAM TITLES

    The New Day sang before the match and got over huge as faces with the fans chanting “New Day Rocks” when it was over.  Xavier Woods in particular has a hell of a voice  Match was sloppy early but the last few minutes were good and crowd loved it because New Day won the title.  Kingston & Big E were the team and Woods never stopped talking at ringside.  Kingston pinned one of the Matadores, I think Fernando, doing the stealing the pin after O’Neil used Clash of the Titus on Fernando.  Right before the finish the Dragons were looking at doing a double superplex on Fernando, but O’Neil power bombed eeryone.

    Jon Stewart said he was friend with Undertaker with Neville and Stephan Amell and Stewart’s son.  Undetraker walked post with smoke following him.  Then Amell signed Stewart’s son’s shirt.

    DOLPH ZIGGLER VS. RUSEV

    Lana is out of the business suits and now wearing a jeans outfit.

    The match ended in a double count out.  Rusev had the accolade on for a while but let it go when Lana distracted him by attacking Summer Rae.  Rusev was then yelling at Lana, which distracted Lana and Summer attacked.  Ziggler had rolled out of the ring and superkicked Rusev.  Rusev was laid out and Ziggler couldn’t beat the count.  Ziggler was pounding on Rusev after the match. Summer jumped on Ziggler and Lana made the save.  The women went at it and were pulled apart by the guys.  Crowd booed the double count out a lot, but got into the women rolling around and chanted “Let them go.”  Match was okay before the finish.  Rusev did some impressive stuff for his size.

    STEPHEN AMELL & NEVILLE VS. KING BARRETT & STARDUST

    Amell dd a few good athletic things such as a leap frog ea  .  Crowd didn’t seen to care about him at first, but they popped pretty big when he did a plancha to the floor onto both heels.  Relatively short match.  Neville pinned Barrett with the red arrow right afer the plancha spot.  Neville was real good when he was in.  Amell was better than he had any business being.  Match was about what you’d think it would be overall.

    RYBACK VS. BIG SHOW VS. THE MIZ FOR THE IC TITLE 

    It’s looking like the smart money was in for this show.  Ryback retained when Show knocked out Miz but Ryback clotheslined Show over the top and pinned Miz.  Short match but lots of near falls, with Miz kept going for pins on both guys such as when Ryback used the shell shock on Show and when Show hit Ryback with a knockout punch and each time Miz tried to get the pin but they kicked out.  Actaully Miz went for about a dozen pins.  The first time people expected a change but after that they really didn’t.  Match was nothing special but it was really exactly what it shoiuld have been.  

    Jon Stewart was mad about Brock Lesnar.  He confronted Paul Heyman about Lesnar breaking the streak.  He was asking Heyman how he felt with all the people wanting to see Undertaker win at WrestleMania.  It feels like there is more to this.  Heyman looked at Stewart and said I guess they couldn’t get Letterman to do this show.

    ROMAN REIGNS & DEAN AMBROSE VS. BRAY WYATT & LUKE HARPER

    Best match so far, but shorter than you’d think.  Fast paced with a real hot open with stiff kicks by Harper, a tope by Ambrose, a tope by Harper,etc.  Reigns was superkicked over the table and sold for a few minutes and Ambrose sold.  Reigns made the hot tag and ran wild.  The crowd cheered Ambrose and booed Reigns more than anyone so far on the show.  The finish saw Ambrose use & Reigns use the Road Warrior clothesline on Wyatt, a double team power bomb on Harper, then the Dirty Deeds on Wyatt and Reigns speared Wyatt for the pin.  It felt like a blow-off of Reigns vs. Wyatt.

    SETH ROLLINS VS. JOHN CENA WWE TITLE VS. US TITLE

    An absolutely incredible match with a finish that will garner a ton of publicity.  Really for the building the company mainstream, this finish will get so much attention and Rollins will get a big rub out of this.  There was a ref bump.  Cena hit the Attitude Adjustment on Rollins but no ref.  Rollins was pinned for several seconds but when he got up, he gave Cena a knee to the nose and Cena went down  Both were down when Jon Stewart ran in with a chair.  He teased hitting Rollins, but instead, hit Cena in the gut and put the chair on the ground for Rollins to use the pedigree on the chair to win.  Before that point Rollins put on a best in the world caliber performance, doing everything under the sun.  He kicked out of the AA, Cena used the figure four with the tease that Cena would win the title with Flair’s big move.  It was a match filled with highlights, with Rollins doing everything under the sun.

    They announced a lot of new shows including the Stone Cold podcast with Edge & Christian.

    They also announced the next MSG show on 10/3 will be a live network special built around Brock Lesnar again. 

    They also pushed a Hard Knocks show and a WWE 24 show on guys training at the performance center and NXT.

    TEAM BELLA VS. TEAM PCB VS. TEAM BAD IN AN ELIMINATION MATCH

    They gave them 15:00 and it was a good match, not like some of the NXT matchds but well above the usual WWE women’s match.  Brie pinned Snuka in the first fall with the facebuster.  The crowd booed that because it meant Sasha Banks was gone and she was the crowd favorite.  There was a spot early in the match where Naomi and Banks did flip dives, the Bellas followed with a double tope and Fox took a spill into the pile ending with Fox doing a flip dive onto everyone.  The finish saw Lynch pin Brie with a pump handle uranage.  They pushed the idea that the Bellas now have to be concerned.

    KEVIN OWENS VS. CESARO

    They had a hard time this late in the show as the crowd was waiting for the main event at this point.  But the match was very good from start to finish.  Both looked great here.  Owens won clean with the fisherman buster off the middle rope and a pop up power bomb.  Owens needed the win, but Cesaro needs to have his momentum fed at this point.  Both did dives with Cesaro doing a twisting tornillo dive as well as a giant swing and the sharpshooter but Owens made the ropes.  It was a tough spot on the card for anyone and they did as well in the spot as anyone was going to tonight.

    BROCK LESNAR VS UNDERTAKER

    They immediately pushed in commentary that Brock Lesnar hasn’t lost a match clean in 2 1/2 years.  They did a disputed finish.  Lesanr had Undertaker in the Kimura and the bell rang.  Charles Robinson, the ref, said that he never called for the bell.  Lesnar celebrated like he won and Undertaker came from behind and gave him another  low blow and put him in the Hell’s gate.  Lesnar flipped Undertaker off but then passed out.  The story is the timekeeper saw Undertaker tap out, and then in the replay they showed that Undertaker in fact did tap out but Robinson was on the other side and missed the tap.  Obviously the finish is to build for a third match. 

    Really good physical match.  Undertaker took several suplexes.  Most of the match saw them kick out of big moves with Lesnar kicking out of the tombstone and then laughing at him.  Lesnar also escaped the Hell’s Gate the first time.  Lesnar did an F-5 on the announcers table but Undertaker got in before ten, and then Undertaker kicked out of two different F-5s and also escaped from the Kimura.  Lesnar was bleeding a lot from a kick to the head early.  For the most part, the crowd cheered both guys.

    Paul Heyman was screaming “No” and fans were screaming “Yes.”  Heyman said that everyone saw that Lesnar won by submission.