This morning’s Kizuna Road show, live in Iwate on New Japan World, is highlighted by two title matches and an eight man elimination tag team match.
Send your feedback and thumbs up/down/in the middle and a best and worst match to dave@wrestlingobserver.com
The main event has Katsuyori Shibata, who just won back the NEVER title a few weeks ago at Dominion, defending his championship against Tomoaki Honma, the perennial underdog. It’ll be interesting to see who wins here as they are also scheduled to meet again later this summer in the G1. In another title match, NEVER Openweight Six Man champs The Elite (Young Bucks and Kenny Omega) defend against veteran Satoshi Kojima and former Junior tag champs Ricochet and Matt Sydal.
In between those two matches we have a big eight man elimination match as Kazuchika Okada, Hirooki Goto, Will Ospreay and Yoshi-Hashi take on Los Ingoberables de Japon – Evil, Bushi, Tetsuya Naito and Sanada.
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CHASE OWENS VS. DAVID FINLAY
Owens won a short, solid match after a package piledriver. Finlay is good, and also getting popular. Owens was animated, sold well, but comes across as just a guy.
Better than usual for this slot. Baretta survived some near falls with Tenzan. It ended with Taguchi using a plancah on Ishii, Tiger Mask did a tope on Romero, Liger did a plancha on Sakuraba and in the ring, Tenzan pinned Baretta after a moonsault. The crowd was pretty hot seeing Tenzan deliver the move. Match kept moving, was good.
Tenzan did a promo after the match. He’s mad he’s not in G-1 this year, and the crowd wants him in.
YUJIRO TAKAHASHI & HANGMAN PAGE VS. YOSHITATSU & CAPTAIN NEW JAPAN
Fans were into chanting for the Hunter Club. Match was okay with Page actually the best of the four. Captain got some near falls on Page before Page put him away with the Omori driver. Whenever Page does that move, it looks like the guy is going to get hurt because he drops them on their head.
Page hung Captain over the top rope after the match. Page cut a promo announcing that in August the tag titles come back to Bullet Club. That means that tag title match with Briscoes vs. Page & Takahashi is likely on the final day of G-1 at Sumo Hall.
TOGI MAKABE & JUICE ROBINSON VS. YUJI NAGATA & MANABU NAKANISHI
As you would expect, Nagata pinned Robinson with a bridging back suplex for the win. Robinson worked most of the way and sold. Nakanishi did more than usual including a top rope superplex and a crossbody off the top. Best stuff was Nagata vs. Makabe. Right before the finish, Nagata & Nakanishi did a double-team on Robinson with Nagata doing a high kick and Nakanishi coming off the top rope wth a chop.
It’s intermission time. They ran through the entire undercard in barely an hour.
YOUNG BUCKS & KENNY OMEGA VS. SATOSHI KOJIMA & RICOCHET & MATT SYDAL FOR NEVER TRIOS TITLES
Young Bucks & Omega were all wearing New Day T-shirts. Nick still has his ribs taped up. He was also doing the Big E pelvic thrusts.
Super match, great from start to finish with the belts changing hands. With the Bucks as tag champs, losing the trios belts makes sense but they bounce these belts around too much. The finish saw Kojima hit Omega with a lariat and then, he lariated both Bucks at the same time. Sydal hit the shooting star press on Matt, and Ricochet hit the shooting star press at the same time on Nick with Sydal pinning Matt.
Nonstop action and moves, but at times, it was the Ricochet highlight show. Everyone was at their best here. The Bucks twice tried the Meltzer driver but both times it was stopped. Lots of dives. The Bucks & Omega also did a “The Elite” chant to the cadence of New Day sucks.
Kojima called out Tenzan. He talked about Tenzan not being in G-1, and then offered Tenzan his spot. He really didn’t do much here so maybe he’s hurt, but on paper, that’s a backward move for the tournament.
KAZUCHIKA OKADA & HIROOKI GOTO & YOSHI-HASHI & WILL OSPREAY VS. TETSUYA NAITO & SEIYA SANADA & EVIL & BUSHI IN AN ELIMINATION MATCH
Another excellent match. It came down to Ospreay and Bushi and they were great. Bushi blew the mist but Ospreay moved and it went into Sanada’s eyes. Ospreay won after a standing Spanish fly and the Oscutter, a diamond cutter off the ropes. Pretty heated match. Naito and Okada did their big spots early to make it clear they were going over the top together. Evil clotheslined Goto off the apron to eliminate him. Yoshi-Hashi superkicked Evil off the apron to eliminate him. Sanada revesed a cradle by Yoshi-Hashi to pin him. This left Ospreay with Bushi and Sanada. Ospreay dropkicked Sanada off the apron to eliminate him. Ospreay was booked to be, and was, the star of the match.
KATSUYORI SHIBATA VS. TOMOAKI HONMA FOR THE NEVER OPENWEIGHT TITLE
Another excellent match but a little predictable. I think everyone pretty much knew how the match would go and the ending. Honma got a lot of offense but nobody ever bought him winning. Everything was laid in hard. A highlight was Honma coming off the top rope to the floor with a diving headbutt and escaping a guillotine by turning it into a brainbuster. Lots of hard elbows. Honma did his headbutts.
The finish saw Honma do a Mascaras style headbutt and Shibata caught him with a choke. He choked him almost all the way out, let go and hit the penalty kick for the pin. It just felt from the start that this is a showcase win for Shibata. Because of that, it wasn’t as good as the match they had a few years ago in G-1 which was a match of the year candidate. Last three bouts were all totally different and all delivered.
Shibata helped Honma to his feet and then threw Honma out of the ring and raised the belt.
With the fact Raw will struggle badly in the ratings this week due to July 4th and next week’s Major League Baseball Home Run Derby, WWE is trying something new for the next few weeks on their flagship show.
– They have advertised a champion vs. champion match with Dean Ambrose vs. The Miz, with neither title at stake — a match they just did on last week’s Smackdown.
– They’ve also announced Rusev vs. Titus O’Neil for the U.S. title.
The other match announced is a USA vs. The World 16 man elimination match.
What that tells us is that they can isolate a member of the writing team who came up with that suggestion and find out that he ACTUALLY WATCHES WRESTLING. CMLL did that exact same match Friday night except it was Mexico vs. The World in a 16 man elimination match. It also went 51 minutes and was pretty great. Just make sure Volador Jr. and Kushida are the world team.
There will also be the return of a former Smackdown General Manager.
For those thinking Paul Heyman, Heyman arrives in Las Vegas tomorrow and his doing promotional work for a bikini contest much of the week at the Hard Rock, as well as spending time with Brock Lesnar who faces Mark Hunt a week from today at UFC 200. While it’s not impossible for him to go to Columbus, OH from Vegas for one show, I would doubt that would happen because there is bikini contest activity on Monday.
Pretty quiet week leading to a monster week next week with three UFC events in three days including UFC 200. We’ll be doing one weekend poll which is for the New Japan show in Iwate on late Saturday night/Sunday morning with thumbs up, down or middle and best and worst match to dave@wrestlingobsever.com
No WWE shows tonight.
NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING RETURNS AT 8 P.M. EASTERN TIME ON AXS TV
Kushida vs. Ricochet for IWGP Jr. title
Young Bucks vs. Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly for IWGP jr. tag title
Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Shinsuke Nakamura in G-1 Climax final
This is another two-hour show featuring the match that finished second in the 2015 Match of the Year balloting as the main event. This was all taped at last year’s final night of the G-1 in Sumo Hall in Tokyo.
CMLL IPPV AT WWW.CLEENG.COM FROM ARENA MEXICO AT 9:30 P.M. EASTERN TIME
Blue Panther & Blue Panther Jr. & The Panther vs. Felino & Puma & Tiger
Atlantis & Mistico & Stuka Jr. vs. Euforia & Mr. Niebla & El Terrible
Rey Cometa vs. Cavernario hair vs. hair
16-man One Night World Grand Prix tournament:
Diamante Azul, La Mascara, Maximo Sexy (CMLL world heavyweight champion), Rey Escorpion, Rush, Shocker, Ultimo Guerrero, Volador Jr., Johnny Idol, Kushida (IWGP jr champion), Michael Elgin (IWGP IC champion), Marco Corleone, Okumura Sam Adonis, Tama Tonga and Tanga Roa.
LEGACY FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS AT 10 P.M. TONIGHT ON AXS TV FROM DIAMOND JACK’S CASINO IN BOSSIER CITY, LA
Bi Nguyen (0-0, 106.5) vs. Andy Nguyen (2-2, 107.7)
Dan Ige (3-1, 146) vs. Craig Campbell (2-1, 146.1)
Joe Valdez (3-1, 156.3) vs. David Bosnick (6-3, 155.8)
Charles Byrd (7-4, 186.1) vs. Quentin Henry (10-3, 185.8)
David Burrow (14-7, 170.1) vs. Derrick Krantz (17-9, 170.8)
Tony Kelly (5-0, 143.4) vs. Kevin Aguilar (10-1, 14.3) for the featherweight title
Saturday has WWE in Tokyo Sumo Hall:
Asuka vs. Becky Lynch for NXT women’s title
Titus O’Neil vs Curtis Axel
Dolph Ziggler vs. Baron Corbin
Charlotte vs. Natalya for WWE women’s title
Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Kevin Owens
Usos vs. Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson
New Day vs. Vaudevillains for tag titles
John Cena vs. A.J. Styles
Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins vs. Chris Jericho for WWE title
Saturday also has a WWE house show in Pikeville, KY (Kane, Big Show, The Miz, Sheamus, Sami Zayn, Rusev, Cesaro, Enzo, Cass, Dudleys, Kalisto, Sasha Banks). We’re looking for reports on the show at dave@wrestlingobsever.com
NEW JAPAN FROM IWATE ON NEW JAPAN WORLD AT 3 A.M. LATE SATURDAY NIGHT EASTERN AND MIDNIGHT PACIFIC TIME
Yoshitatsu & Captain New Japan vs. Yujiro Takahashi & Hangman Page
Yuji Nagata & Manabu Nakanishi vs. Togi Makabe & Juice Robinson
Kenny Omega & Young Bucks vs. Satoshi Kojima & Ricochet & Matt Sydal for Never six man titles
Kazuchika Okada & Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi & Will Ospreay vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Seiya Sanada & Bushi in an elimination match
Katsuyori Shibata vs. Tomoaki Honma for Never Open weight title
Sunday has Raw in Huntington, WV (Kane, Big Show, The Miz, Sheamus, Sami Zayn, Rusev, Cesaro, Enzo, Cass, Dudleys, Kalisto, Sasha Banks).
Raw will be Monday night from Columbus, OH. Give that Raw is on July 4th, it is likely to be the lowest rating for a Raw show in the history of the show. Rusev vs. Titus O’Neil for the U.S. title has been announced. Shane McMahon is scheduled to return.
Smackdown is Tuesday night in Toledo. No John Cena or Seth Rollins advertised. Dean Ambrose, A.J. Styles and Kevin Owens are the top names advertised.
The 10th annual Wrestling Observer/F4W convention in Las Vegas takes place during UFC’s International Fight Week from July 7 – 11. Ed in San Antonio has information on Facebook, or you can email him at F4Wfan@hotmail.com. It’s always a fun time, so hurry up and make your plans to join Dave Meltzer, Bryan Alvarez, Vinny, Granny, Ed, Peach, Dez, Dr. Lucha, Rodney, Sr. Jaialai, “Filthy” Tom, and the rest of the group in beautiful Las Vegas this July. Plus… some extra secret surprises.
If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today!
It’s a double issue week featuring a look back 40 years at what was the biggest undertaking up to that point in pro wrestling history, and Inoki vs. Ali match, how it came together, what happened that night, coverage of the upcoming G-1 Climax tournament, coverage of Ultima Lucha 3 and details on where the company stands, full coverage of the WWE cruiserweight classic, ROH Best in the World coverage as well as a look at those coming and going from the promotion, the death of Ryan Jimmo, the life and times of Gypsy Joe, and far more about the fallout of the Roman Reigns suspension.
The lead story details this years G-1 tournament including what will air in English, newcomers to the tournament, some interesting political news regarding who is and isn’t in it, as well as a complete lineup for every show.
This issue looks at the background of Ali vs. Inoki, the first time boxer vs. wrestler with major stars came close to happening, boxing champions who did wrestling and wrestlers who faced boxers including involving one of the all-time greats, Thesz vs. Marciano talk, and the two best known mixed matches prior to Ali vs. Inoki in the U.S.
There is also a look at Japanese pro wrestling in the 70s and how that led to the match, the business of Billy Robinson involving Inoki vs. Baba, how Inoki was being marketed, and the attempts to put together Ali vs. Bruno Sammartino and how that led to this.
The goals of Ali vs. Inoki for the New Japan side, the pro wrestling angles, just how big the match was why the match wasn’t a work, where Ali’s career stood at the time, media coverage, how the terrible rules were the reason the fight, Sammartino’s broken neck and return, Stan Hansen becoming a superstar in Japan, and why Ali vs. Inoki was not a success in much of the U.S, and much more in this issue of the Wrestling Observer.
You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer.
For the United States, it is $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52. In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to moonsault@mediaplusint.com. For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52.
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Wrestling Observer Newsletter BACK ISSUE
READ IT HERE: May 24, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: ECW Hardcore Heaven/WWF No Mercy – Amidst rumors flying everywhere of the possible demise of the company and others who are talking that the company is a short period away from growing bigger than ever, the ECW Hardcore Heaven PPV came off like a show that was a bridge for the company to something new, but when it was over, there were still no answers over whether what is new is good news or bad news… Current subscribers click here to continue reading.
FRIDAY NEWS UPDATE
Jerry Lawler was reinstated by WWEas soon as charges were dropped in his domestic violence case. He is expected to return on the Tuesday tapings in Toledo.
Ric Flair and co-host Conrad Thompson return to podcasting this week as part of MLWRadio.com starting on Wednesday. The show had gone on a hiatus after their prior contract with contract with CBS Radio Play It.
At a court hearing earlier this week, it was ruled that Armando Montalvo was competent to stand trial. Montalvo was the man shot in front of the WWE Performance Center in Orlando who had been harassing people at times and was all messed up in love with Lita at the time. His family stated he suffered from bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses. A pretrial hearing is set for 8/31.
Judge Vanessa Bryant ruled that Christopher Nowinski will not have to be deposed in the lawsuits by Vito LoGrasso and Evan Singleton against WWE regarding concussions. Bryant ruled she couldn’t find any reason where Nowinski would have knowledge that would be revelant to the case.
The Stardom promotion in Japan will be streaming all of their shows live going forward on the new Stardom World streaming service which costs 750 yen ($7.29) per month. To sign up: http://www.stardom-world.com/
WWE
The WWE Network has uploaded 80 new episodes of Nitro meaning every episode of now up.
Adam Rose talks what went wrong with is character on the main roster on the Pancakes and Powerslam Radio show:
“I did a commercial, and once I did the commercial, I realized that we were going down the wrong path,” said Rose. “I think on the main stage, it needed to be introduced as a heel, because it was so quirky and so different. I think if it was introduced as a heel, then people wouldn’t have felt forced to love it, and then I felt that they would have naturally fell in love with certain parts of the quirkiness, and it would have naturally evolved to something or someone who people liked. I think that was a big mistake.” Rose adds, “I think one of the hardest things to do in this industry is to get over as a babyface. Some people have a natural connection with the audience. [Someone] like Sami Zayn has a natural connection with the audience. I don’t think Adam Rose had any with the audience because he was completely quirky and over-the-top and ridiculous. And I think that’s why it would have been better introduced as a heel because your automatic reaction to seeing someone like that is not to like it.”
At the conclusion of Adam Rose’s WWE career, he was placed in a misfit group named the Social Outcasts, along with Curtis Axel, Bo Dallas, and Heath Slater. Rose admits that he had no idea about the group until he was given the idea only a few hours before the show started.
“We had no idea,” said Rose. “I think we were told about 5 o’clock on a Monday night that we were now going to be a group. I think we were four guys who the company saw had something, but we were doing nothing. So I think the idea was like, okay, let’s put them together collectively in a group, and these are guys who don’t know each other really well. I think the awkwardness of it was actually one of the reasons [why it worked]. You get all these well-polished teams, and the idea was for the faction to not be well-polished, and the idea was for us not to get along, to almost be bumping heads and trying to one-up each other the whole time. I think the Social Outcasts has talented individuals in it. I don’t think the Social Outcasts is going to be a deal loss; I think it is going to be, given the right structure, could take off. But, it’s all a matter of where you put it.
Tammy Sytch is scheduled to be sentenced for a few DUI arrests this coming Tuesday. Sytch just completed rehab.
The Matt Mitrione vs. Oli Thompson fight that was promoted last Friday night in Bellator is, in fact, now official for 7/16 in London at the O2 Arena, as the Missouri commission cleared Mitrione. Mitrione was knocked silly in the opening moments of his fight with Carl Seumanutafa and his fighting again three weeks later seemed way too early. But it’ll be the semi-main event on that show.
Roderick Strong vs Matt Riddle was announced for the 7/16 Evolve show in Queens, NY at La Broom at 4 p.m. The early start time is to avoid going head-to-head with the WWE show in Madison Square Garden. Other new Evolve matches announced are Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Tony Nese and Riddle vs. Marty Scurll on 7/17 in Melrose, MA.
They are also running a Sunday at 3 p.m. show before SummerSlam in with a show in Brooklyn headlined by Timothy Thatcher vs. Drew Gulak, Tommy End vs. Matt Riddle, Sabre Jr. vs. Cedric Alexander plus Cody Rhodes, Drew Galloway, Chris Hero, Tracy Williams, Scurll, TJP, Ethan Page, Fred Yehi and Peter Kaasa.
Silas Young on Twitter noted that his ROH contract has expired and he’s now a free agent.
Alpha 1 Wrestling on 8/21 at 4 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus in Hamilton, ONT.
NWA Cajun Heat tomorrow night in Morgan City, LA at the Municipal Auditorium with Jax Dane vs. Mustang Mike for the NWA title plus Kevin Nash appears, Greg Anthony vs. Americos, Rob Conway vs Rodney Mack and Jeremy Moore vs Matt Riviera.
Today is the 50th anniversary of an Ernie Ladd vs. Destroyer match plus a Battle Royal at the Sam Houston Coliseum in Houston (thanks to Tom Blatter)
Luke Fordward, the CMLL wrestler known as Thunder, passed away today.
Daniel Lopez, (Hall of Famer El Satanico), his trainer and the father of Fordward’s girlfriend, had reported a few days ago that he was gravely ill and needed a miracle. It is believed that he passed away due to lung cancer.
In a translation of a quote by Fredo Esparza, Lopez talked about Fordward.
“I don’t have the words to thank everyone for so many prayers and blessings,” wrote Lopez. “Friends, family, confidants, every fan since all this has served. Luke Fordward “Thunder,” member of my family has left us today and I know that thanks to all of you best wishes his road was illuminated. It hurts so much what we are going through and today he has beaten the damned cancer, but starting today we have much more strength from all of you to continue fighting and more importantly to cover to gran luchaadora, my daughter Daniela, and with the help of our angel that is now with God, we will come out of this difficult moment. Once again, thank you to everyone. We will miss, you Luke,”
Fordward had been used as a headliner in CMLL until disappearing a few months ago.
– Air Date: June 30, 2016 – Location: AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami, FL
– The Big News:
Cesaro won an opportunity at the U.S. Championship but promptly lost that title match to Rusev. They announced Rusev would defend his title again on Raw against Titus O’Neil. Also, Dean Ambrose beat The Miz in a non-title champion vs. champion match.
– Show Recap:
They started with a cold open and promo for a Fatal 4-Way match to determine a number one contender for the US Title (with the title match also taking place tonight). This was followed by a segment where each guy cut a promo “earlier tonight” about the match.
It started with Cesaro driving up to the the building. He began cutting a promo immediately upon leaving his SUV, saying he was inviting his opponents to the uppercut party. Next was Apollo Crews, who was working out. Crews said he was the underdog, but sometimes the impossible becomes possible.
Next was Sheamus and his wacky moustache (and beard). Sheamus didn’t know why Crews was in the match but would have fun kicking his head off. Finally, Alberto Del Rio said he didn’t know who Crews was before Monday, and was going after his old comrade Rusev. This was pretty goofy, but at least it was different.
Mauro Ranallo, Byron Saxton and David Otunga were the commentators again. Because of the skeleton crew, I guess, a generic man was the ring announcer. They never mentioned his name.
U.S. Title #1 Contender’s Fatal 4-Way: Cesaro beat Alberto Del Rio, Apollo Crews and Sheamus via submission
There was a cool spot where Del Rio had the armbar on Sheamus but Crews nailed him with a standing moonsault. Crews took out himself and Sheamus from the ring with a running crossbody. Cesaro gave Del Rio the big swing and applied the sharpshooter for the tapout win.
The match went about 11 minutes and it was fine. It was somewhat surprising to see Del Rio tap. It felt like Crews or Sheamus would get back in, but they didn’t.
Afterwards, Del Rio attacked Cesaro, sending him into the steel steps followed by the double footstomp. As some referees checked on Cesaro, Rusev marched to the ring. He congratulated Cesaro for achieving the greatest honour a man can receive – a match with him. Rusev didn’t want to wait and challenged Cesaro to the title match right now.
After a break, the referees continued to check on Cesaro. They began taking him to the back, but Rusev called him a coward, so Cesaro stopped, turned back toward the ring, and accepted the match.
U.S. Title Match: Rusev (w/Lana) beat Cesaro via submission
With Rusev sitting on the top rope, Cesaro hit an uppercut and dropkick to send him out of the ring, followed by a cannonball. He tried a crossbody in the ring, but Rusev caught him, hit a swinging side slam and somersault senton for a near fall. Cesaro came back with uppercuts and a clothesline for two.
Cesaro tried countering an Accolade into the sharpshooter, but he was in too much pain, so Rusev was able apply the hold. Rusev tried pulling back on the Accolade the way he did to Kalisto, but Cesaro rolled through into a pin attempt for a close near fall. However, Rusev caught him with a side kick and applied the Accolade for the submission win.
It was only about 7 minutes but good while it lasted. The announcers put over how much pain Cesaro must’ve been in throughout. The crowd got into Cesaro as the match went on and there was also “Rusev sucks” chants.
Renee Young caught up with Rusev and Lana backstage. Rusev said Independance Day should be Rusev Day. He said while Americans would be stuffing their faces with processed meats and shooting off fireworks in the name of Rusev, he would be with Lana on an island away from this country. Renee informed him that he has to defend the title against Titus O’Neil on Raw. Lana said, “Rusev crush” and they left.
The first 37 minutes of this show was devoted to all of the above mentioned U.S. Title stuff. They aired a video package of the special olympics deal from Raw and showed Dana Brooke walking backstage.
Dana Brooke beat Billie Kay via pinfall
No entrance for Billie Kay. Ranallo mentioned that Kay was from Australia and this was her debut. Sasha Banks watched backstage. Kay made a brief comeback, but this was basically a squash. Brooke won in 3-4 minutes with a Samoan Driver. They used as many camera cuts as possible to save this one.
Renee found Banks backstage. Banks reminded us that she made Brooke tap out. She cut a pretty good promo, saying she has a long history with Charlotte and Charlotte knows she’s breathing down her neck. Banks was interrupted by Summer Rae, who said everyone was sick of her and she hopes they get drafted to different brands. Banks challenged her to a match tonight.
MizTV with Dean Ambrose
Maryse introduced Miz, who said this could be the last MizTV on Smackdown because of the draft. People cheered. He then said that MizTV could be exclusive to Smackdown. People booed. He was about to introduce his guest Dean Ambrose, but before he could, Ambrose came out anyway.
Ambrose brought a Cuban sandwich to the ring. He blamed his busy schedule for not having time to eat because they’ve been running him around like crazy. Miz was mad he had a sandwich. Ambrose said he needed to keep his strength up because he just won the title and has a triple threat match coming up.
Ambrose said he was a fan of MizTV and mocked his fancy set. Miz said the only thing the Ambrose Asylum had was the plant and Ambrose told him not to talk about Mitch that way. They asked the crowd if they’d rather see the Asylum and they cheered. Miz put himself over for remaining IC champion despite his schedule. Ambrose responded by calling himself the champion.
Miz called him a joke because while Miz looks like a champion, Ambrose doesn’t, and called him a black mark on anyone who holds a championship in WWE. As Miz ranted, Ambrose continued eating and had mustard stains on his mouth. Ambrose got in his face and said he could see where this was going, and they both put down their titles like they were about to fight.
Miz took off his white suit jacket, so Ambrose used it to wipe his mouth. Maryse grabbed the jacket it, tossed it over Ambrose’s face to blind him, and Miz knocked him down with a boot. Miz and Maryse left, while Ambrose sat up and continued eating his sandwich.
The people seemed to like Ambrose, but he didn’t come off great here. He obviously got his revenge later in the show, but he was punked here by Miz and Maryse, and then he kept eating his sandwich on the ground like a bum.
Erick Rowan & Braun Strowman (w/Bray Wyatt) beat two jobbers via pinfall
Strowman got the pin after about a minute. The Wyatt Family posed but they were interrupted by New Day on the screen. Kingston cut a promo in the vein of Bray Wyatt, and asked Bray what he fears. Big E wondered if he feared soap or women with big ol’ booties.
Big E told Bray to expose himself, but Kingston didn’t want to see Bray exposed. Big E agreed and told Bray to keep his sheep in its barn. Bray laughed and said he loved how everything was a joke to them. He pointed out Xavier Woods’ apparent concern and said the devil calls out for him. “Run.”
Sasha Banks beat Summer Rae via submission
Summer knocked Banks off the apron with a big boot and they went to commercial less than two minutes into the match, even though nothing else happened since the previous commercial break. Summer had the heat after the break and the crowd chanted “Let’s go Sasha.” Banks came back with running clotheslines and a kick to the crotch (I think).
Banks missed a running double knee attack, and Summer hit a wheel kick for a two count. Banks missed the double knees again and Summer hit a DDT for two. Banks finally did hit the double knee strike, followed by a crossface for the tapout win after about 8 minutes.
They aired a video package from Raw highlighting the stuff with Rollins, Ambrose, Styles, Cena, etc, including Rollins promo on Reigns.
Non-Title: WWE Champion Dean Ambrose beat IC Champion The Miz (w/Maryse) via pinfall
Ambrose was all over Miz early and was about to go for a suicide dive, but Maryse pulled Miz out of the way. Ambrose went right back after him and tried Dirty Deeds, but Miz sent him to the outside. Ambrose promptly followed with a clothesline. Maryse tried to distract Ambrose, but that didn’t work either.
Miz was eventually able to toss him into the barricade and then went to commercial (3 minutes into the match). After the break, Miz worked over Ambrose’s leg as fans chanted “Let’s go Ambrose.” Miz went for the skull crushing finale but Ambrose countered into a rollup for two, followed by a neckbreaker.
Ambrose came back with fists, chops, a clothesline, running forearm, bulldog and la magistral cradle for two. Ambrose tried a diving dropkick but Miz caught him (sort of) and applied the Figure Four. Ambrose got to the ropes and followed with a suicide dive.
Miz then countered a rebound clothesline and hit skull crushing finale for a near fall. Miz went for a double axe handle off the top but Ambrose countered into Dirty Deeds for the win. Pretty good match that went about 15 minutes.
– Final Thoughts:
This was a skeleton crew show and it sure felt like it. Still, the US title stuff and the main event were both good.
UFC had a conference call today for UFC 200. Even though both Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier were there, Brock Lesnar was the guy who got asked the most questions. When asked about Stephanie McMahon’s comments on WWE not supporting his fight necessarily, he said, “I don’t care what she says.” When he was asked what affect it would have on his drawing power if he lost, he said, “I really don’t give a sh*t.”
“This isn’t about my fans. This is about me living my life, being the person I want to be. Granted, without the fans and everything, none of us would be able to do this. I get that. But I don’t sit up at night wondering, `Is my drawing power gonna be hurt’ or ‘Are my WWE fans gonna tune in and watch me do this.’ I don’t give two sh*ts about that. This is about me. I want to get in there and be an athlete again. That’s what this is about.”
Lesnar also said he didn’t know if he would fight again after this fight. He said training camp is going great. He said being forced out of UFC due to his illness has haunted him, and he wanted to come back before it was too late.
We’re looking for reports from tonight’s NXT show in Winter Haven, FL as well as tomorrow’s show at Tokyo Sumo Hall (Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins vs. Kevin Owens for WWE title; John Cena vs. A.J. Styles, New Day vs. Vaudevillains for tag team titles, Usos vs. Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson, Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Chris Jericho, Charlotte vs. Natalya for women’s title, Dolph Ziggler vs. Curtis Axel, Titus O’Neil vs. Baron Corbin, Asuka vs. Becky Lynch for NXT title). Send reports to NewsTips@WrestlingObserver.com.
SMACKDOWN TONIGHT ON USA AT 8 P.M.
Four-way for U.S. title match with Cesaro vs. Apollo Crews vs. Sheamus & Alberto Del Rio
The 10th annual Wrestling Observer/F4W convention in Las Vegas takes place during UFC’s International Fight Week from July 7 – 11. Ed in San Antonio has information on Facebook, or you can email him at F4Wfan@hotmail.com. It’s always a fun time, so hurry up and make your plans to join Dave Meltzer, Bryan Alvarez, Vinny, Granny, Ed, Peach, Dez, Dr. Lucha, Rodney, Sr. Jaialai, “Filthy” Tom, and the rest of the group in beautiful Las Vegas this July. Plus… some extra secret surprises.
If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today!
It’s a double issue week featuring a look back 40 years at what was the biggest undertaking up to that point in pro wrestling history, and Inoki vs. Ali match, how it came together, what happened that night, coverage of the upcoming G-1 Climax tournament, coverage of Ultima Lucha 3 and details on where the company stands, full coverage of the WWE cruiserweight classic, ROH Best in the World coverage as well as a look at those coming and going from the promotion, the death of Ryan Jimmo, the life and times of Gypsy Joe, and far more about the fallout of the Roman Reigns suspension.
The lead story details this years G-1 tournament including what will air in English, newcomers to the tournament, some interesting political news regarding who is and isn’t in it, as well as a complete lineup for every show.
This issue looks at the background of Ali vs. Inoki, the first time boxer vs. wrestler with major stars came close to happening, boxing champions who did wrestling and wrestlers who faced boxers including involving one of the all-time greats, Thesz vs. Marciano talk, and the two best known mixed matches prior to Ali vs. Inoki in the U.S.
There is also a look at Japanese pro wrestling in the 70s and how that led to the match, the business of Billy Robinson involving Inoki vs. Baba, how Inoki was being marketed, and the attempts to put together Ali vs. Bruno Sammartino and how that led to this.
The goals of Ali vs. Inoki for the New Japan side, the pro wrestling angles, just how big the match was why the match wasn’t a work, where Ali’s career stood at the time, media coverage, how the terrible rules were the reason the fight, Sammartino’s broken neck and return, Stan Hansen becoming a superstar in Japan, and why Ali vs. Inoki was not a success in much of the U.S, and much more in this issue of the Wrestling Observer.
You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer.
For the United States, it is $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52. In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to moonsault@mediaplusint.com. For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52.
If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.
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.
Wrestling Observer Newsletter BACK ISSUE
READ IT HERE: May 24, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: ECW Hardcore Heaven/WWF No Mercy – Amidst rumors flying everywhere of the possible demise of the company and others who are talking that the company is a short period away from growing bigger than ever, the ECW Hardcore Heaven PPV came off like a show that was a bridge for the company to something new, but when it was over, there were still no answers over whether what is new is good news or bad news… Current subscribers click here to continue reading.
– AdWeek has a story on the 30 Most Powerful Women in sports. Both Stephanie McMahon and Ronda Rousey made the cut. I’m not making that up.
– Dwayne Johnson will be getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in a ceremony that will take place in 2017.
– New names announced for PWG’s Battle of Los Angeles include Ricochet, Matt Riddle, Chris Hero, and Mark Andrews.
– Chris Jericho talks about the Jericho Network, which debuts on 7/7 on PodcastOne. Konnan will have a regular show and the plans are 10-12 shows per month. His goal is to have six strong shows and six shows that will be given a chance to make it. He said it won’t affect his show and he’s not going to be a guest on the other shows. Konnan will be a regular as noted yesterday.
WWE
The Sling TV service will be adding USA Network, which means Raw and Smackdown live for cord-cutters who use that service.
There is an online presale for the 8/29 RAW show from Houston with the code HOUSTON. The presale ends at 10 p.m. tonight.
UFC
The 2016 UFC Hall of Fame Ceremony will be at the Fan Expo at the Las Vegas Convention Center at Noon on 7/10.
UFC and Topps announced a digital trading card app Topps UFC Knockout 16, which debuted today on download for free at selectiOS and Android devices via the Apple App Store and Google Play.
UFC 202 continues to get packed up as Cody Garbrandt vs. Takeya Mizugaki has been added the the 8/20 show in Las Vegas. I was hopeful for Garbrandt to get a higher ranked guy next. Tim Means vs. Sean Strickland was also added.
Erick Koch vs. Drew Dober has been added to the 9/10 UFC 203 show in Cleveland.
More events next week in Las Vegas regarding International Fight Week:
On 7/6 from 6-8 p.m., Megan Olivi will host a Lip Sync Challenge at Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo with Stipe Miocic, Bruce Buffer, Arianny Celeste, Rashad Evans and Uriah Hall. Tickets are at Ticketmaster.
On 7/7 from 9:30 p.m. to Noon there will be a TopGolf Challenge at TopGolf Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Hotel with Stipe Miocic, Carly Baker, Kahili Blundel, Donald Cerrone, Urijah Faber, Max Holloway, Luke Rockhold and Stephen Thompson.
On 7/9 from 6-8 a.m. will be a 5K race starting at The Green at Town Square with Forrest Griffin as MC plus appearances by Dennis Bermudez, Donald Cerrone, John Dodson, Matt Hughes, Raquel Pennington, Kenda Perez, Ben Rothwell, Ovince Saint Preux and Aljamain Sterling. Running will be Luciana Andrade, Carly Baker, Dan Hardy and Tecia Torres.
There will be a UFC 200 viewing party at the Green Valley Ranch Resort at 2300 Paseo Verde Parkway from 6 p.m. on with John Dodson, Neil Magny, Yair Rodriguez and Dustin Poirier. There will also be a viewing party at the Red Rock Casino with Dennis Bermudez, Kenda Perez, Ben Rothwell, Aljamain Sterling and Ovince Saint Preux, and at the El Cortez Hotel and Casino with Jeremy Stephens and Stephen Thompson.
MISCELLANEOUS
Ken Patera has been added to the Tragos/Thesz Hall of fame weekend list of people attending. He will be at an autograph signing at 2 p.m.on 7/23 at the Dan Gable Museum. Others scheduled include Brian Blair, Baron Von Raschke, Bob Backlund, Bill Murdoch, Chael Sonnen, Charlie Thesz, Dan Gable, me, George Schire, Gerald Brisco, Greg Oliver, Iron Sheik, Jason Sanderson, JJ Dillon, Larry Hennig, Magnum T.A., Ricochet, Rob Schaumberger, Stan Kowalski, Steve Johnson, Terry Funk Tessa Blanchard, Tully Blanchard, Wade Keller, Wes Brisco and Big E.
In Your Face Wrestling on 7/16 in Albany, NY at the Polish Community Center with Sluck Wagner Brown vs. Cloudy plus Lu Fisto.
Some early guest names listed for WrestleCon in Orlando for WrestleManai week, besides Jimmy Snuka, include Vader, Robert Fuller, The Godwinns, Katie Lee Burchill, Godfather, Madusa, Tito Santana, Paul Orndorff, Greg Valentine, Perry Saturn, Hornswoggle, Jim Mitchell, Hillbilly Jim, Boogeyman, Lanny Poffo, Outback Jack, Headbangers, Jillian Hall and Barry Horowitz.
House of Hardcore on 8/6 in Pasadena, TX at the Convention Center is headlined by Tommy Dreamer & Mickie James vs. Pepper Parks & Cherry Bomb (Braxton Sutter & Allie in TNA) in a Texas death match, Lance Hoyt vs. Billy Gunn, plus Moose, Carlito, Vickie Guerrero, Thea Trinidad, Sandman, MVP and Tony Nese.
All Pro Wrestling is part of the Fit of Mind Freedom Festival on 7/9 at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Fracisco. Activities take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and also include a heath Fair, live music and Yoga & Fitness.
Smash Wrestling on 8/21 in Pickering, ONT at the Recreational Complex with Mark Haskins from the U.K. vs. Tarik for the Smash title. They also run 7/9 in Fort Erie at the Naive Friendship Centre, and 7/30 in Oshawa, ONT at the Music Hall.
CMLL on Monday in Puebla before a packed house: Malayo & Sauron b Centella Roja & Rey Samuray, Black Tiger & Hombre Bala Jr. & Oro Jr. b Ares & King Jaguar & Policeman, Estrellita & Marcela & Skadi b Amapola & Comandante & Zeuxis, Misterioso Jr. & Pierroth & Sagrado b Fuego & Paris & Triton, Johnny Idol & Mistico & Stuka Jr. b Tama Tonga & Tanga Roa & Rey Escorpion-DQ, Rush b Volador Jr. after Pierroth gave Volador a low blow when Rey Escorpion distracted ref Tirantes. Rey Escorpion then accepted Rush’s invitation to join Los Ingobernables.
Michael Carpenter at KnightRiderRulz@hotmail.com is looking for a copy of the ROH TV show that aired last night on Comet TV.
Trailer for the movie “Vigilante Dairies” with Rampage Jackson here.
Evolve will be presenting matches involving people in the Cruiserweight Classic. Among the bouts will be:
7/16 in Queens, NY: Johnny Gargano vs. Cedric Alexander, Zack Sabre Jr. vs. TJ Perkins, Drew Galloway vs. Drew Gulak, Timothy Thatcher vs. Marty Scurll for Evolve title
7/17 in Melrose, MA: Tommaso Ciampa vs. Cedric Alexander, Drew Galloway vs. Johnny Gargano, Timothy Thatcher vs. TJ Perkins for Evolve title
8/19 in Joppa, MD: Drew Gulak vs. Tony Nese, TJ Perkins vs. Cedric Alexander, Timothy Thatcher vs. Matt Riddle for Evolve title no holds barred, Cody Rhodes vs. Johnny Gargano
8/20 in Brooklyn, NY: Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Cedric Alexander, Timothy Thatcher vs. Drew Gulak for Evolve title, Matt Riddle vs. Tommy End
It’s a double issue week featuring a look back 40 years at what was the biggest undertaking up to that point in pro wrestling history, and Inoki vs. Ali match, how it came together, what happened that night, coverage of the upcoming G-1 Climax tournament, coverage of Ultima Lucha 3 and details on where the company stands, full coverage of the WWE cruiserweight classic, ROH Best in the World coverage as well as a look at those coming and going from the promotion, the death of Ryan Jimmo, the life and times of Gypsy Joe, and far more about the fallout of the Roman Reigns suspension.
The lead story details this years G-1 tournament including what will air in English, newcomers to the tournament, some interesting political news regarding who is and isn’t in it, as well as a complete lineup for every show.
This issue looks at the background of Ali vs. Inoki, the first time boxer vs. wrestler with major stars came close to happening, boxing champions who did wrestling and wrestlers who faced boxers including involving one of the all-time greats, Thesz vs. Marciano talk, and the two best known mixed matches prior to Ali vs. Inoki in the U.S.
There is also a look at Japanese pro wrestling in the 70s and how that led to the match, the business of Billy Robinson involving Inoki vs. Baba, how Inoki was being marketed, and the attempts to put together Ali vs. Bruno Sammartino and how that led to this.
The goals of Ali vs. Inoki for the New Japan side, the pro wrestling angles, just how big the match was why the match wasn’t a work, where Ali’s career stood at the time, media coverage, how the terrible rules were the reason the fight, Sammartino’s broken neck and return, Stan Hansen becoming a superstar in Japan, and why Ali vs. Inoki was not a success in much of the U.S, and much more in this issue of the Wrestling Observer.
You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer
For the United States, it is $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52. In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to moonsault@mediaplusint.com. For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52.
If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.
If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can get one free classic issue of your choice sent to you today. With a 40 issue subscription, you can get two free classic issues sent to you today.
The Wrestling Observer ranges weekly from 35,000 to 50,000 words covering pro wrestling and MMA internationally. Each issue has coverage and analysis of all the major news, plus every issue breaks major news stories before the Internet sties and has the most complete look at the pro wrestling and MMA business anywhere, plus history pieces available nowhere else.
Also in this issue:
Update on the health issues involving former CMLL headliner Thunder
Notes for this week’s CMLL iPPV show with lineup
How the New Japan stars did this week at Arena Mexico
Mascara Dorada after being in the WWE tournament
Promotion falling apart due to financial issues and several wrestlers contracts not being renewed
Update on Dragon Gate’s biggest show of the year
New Japan big show this week
Update on the Super J Cup for 2016
New Japan booking changes
Notes from New Japan’s big show of the week
Small groups doing angles that sold out Korakuen Hall
The most disgusting promotional tactic of 2016
Update on George Steele
PWG Battle of Los Angeles news
Chyna Memorial Service news
Legendary pro wrestling announced big health issue
Future of Roderick Strong
Future of Bill Goldberg
Vader vs. Will Ospreay
Tommy Dreamer’s promotion hits Australia
Battle of legends draws big crowd
Ex-WWE stars working on top in Puerto Rico
New Lucha Underground signing
Notes on ROH TV tapings for the next month
A look at matches planned for the next ROH TV tapings and a PPV match
TNA personality gets radio show
TNA has issues with U.K. promoters
Vince Russo admits to burying TNA with Pop TV
Lorenzo Fertitta with new job
Update on UFC sale talk
Campbell McLaren talks value of UFC and trying to buy it
More on C.M. Punk’s UFC debut
UFC nominations for ESPY awards
UFC owner dividends at the end of 2014 and 2015
Dan Severn writes autobiography
Tons of new UFC fights
B.J. Penn’s suspension update
Another legend wants Michael Bisping
Urijah Faber talks future
Coverage of Bellator Dynamite
If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can get one free classic issue of your choice sent to you today. With a 40 issue subscription, you can get two free classic issues sent to you today.
New subscribers ordering 24 or 40 issues have to let us know what major stories of the past 11 years you are most interested in and we’ll send the issue with the best coverage of that story. We’ve got coverage of every major PPV event and world wide spectacular, every major star switching promotions, histories of companies like FMW, Rings and New Japan, retirement and obit issues of every major star who fits into those descriptions over the past 11 years, as well as our biggest issue every year, the annual awards issue, and our most controversial issue of every year, the Hall of Fame issue.
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.
Two people have been charged in connection with the hit and run homicide of former UFC fighter Ryan Jimmo, Edmonton police posted on their website Wednesday.
Anthony Getschel, 23, was charged with second degree murder, criminal negligence causing death and fail to stop at scene of accident involving death. Jordan Wagner, 21, is charged with accessory after the fact to murder.
Edmonton police also stated that the suspects did not know Jimmo and that a brief arguement had taken place shortly before the hit and run took place.
Jimmo, 34, last fought in UFC in May 2015, losing to Francimar Barroso and hadn’t fought since.
The 26th annual G-1 Climax tournament which, in the last few years, has gained more international interest as the period with a large percentage of what will be the year’s best matches, was officially announced this past week.
UFC 200/International Fight Week press is in full swing.Here’s the full audio of one of the media calls featuring lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos, challenger Eddie Alvarez, and interim featherweight title contenders Frankie Edgar and Jose Aldo.
Also part of International Fight Week is the unlikely tag team of UFC and Hank Hill. The character from the King of the Hill animated series is plugging UFC 200 in ads during the Adult Swim programming block on Cartoon Network. The ads are specific to the Adult Swim brand and are reportedly the brainchild of Dana White. In one commercial, Hank drinks beer and argues with another character about who is winning the Jones vs. Cormier fight. More animated ads will air later this year on Cartoon Network to promote other UFC cards.
There will be a tour of Japan and Hawaii that starts tonight in Honolulu (Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins, Usos, Luke Gallows, Karl Anderson, Shinsuke Nakamura, Asuka, A.J. Styles, Chris Jericho).
The 10th annual Wrestling Observer/F4W convention in Las Vegas takes place during UFC’s International Fight Week from July 7 – 11.Ed in San Antonio has information on Facebook, or you can email him at F4Wfan@hotmail.com. It’s always a fun time, so hurry up and make your plans to join Dave Meltzer, Bryan Alvarez, Vinny, Granny, Ed, Peach, Dez, Dr. Lucha, Rodney, Sr. Jaialai, “Filthy” Tom, and the rest of the group in beautiful Las Vegas this July. Plus… some extra secret surprises.
If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today!
Figure Four Weekly
READ IT HERE: Figure Four Weekly 6/27/2016: WWE concussion lawsuit update, more – For now, the WWE concussion lawsuit continues to center around the matter of whether or not Christopher Nowinski can be deposed by the plaintiffs, with WWE sides arguing back against yet again in court filings this past week and Nowinski’s lawyer joining in.That said, the most newsworthy part of the story comes from a literal footnote in WWE’s pleading, which refers to an affidavit attached to the filing… Subscribers click here to continue reading.
A look at the prospective UFC sale is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. The issue looks at the main bidders, what kind of money is being bid, how much the Fertittas have made from the endeavor, the situation with Dana White, what is and isn’t expected to change, why the sale is coming now and who exactly owns what percentage of the company, plus a look at just how deep the UFC 200 show is.
Plus there is a major story on the gamble of Brock Lesnar in UFC 200, the most in-depth look at the Ariel Helwani situation that you’ll find anywhere, full coverage of NXT Takeover, UFC 199, WWE Money in the Bank, and the details of TNA’s struggle to stay alive, its PPV and its future. There is also a breakdown on the WWE cruiserweight classic, and monthly WWE and TNA business figures.
This issue looks at Michael Bisping’s unlikely title win, all the ramifications of the Lesnar deal, what it shows about WWE, a look back at the last time WWE risked one of their stars against an outsider without scripting, how Ariel Helwani got to be a star reporter and how that played into what happened last week, and what aspects of the story that are really more important that haven’t been covered or have been overlooked.
Inside this week, there is also a look at the death of a key WWE musician, more on what Ali learned from pro wrestling, Bryan Danielson attends WWE event, Bobby Roode’s debut, notes on SummerSlam, new WWE executive hire, new WWE announcer, WWE looking for new members of creative, who is expected to return shortly, another animated WWE movie, update on Paul Heyman plus a full rundown on all the WWE & NXT live events this past week and business notes on the shows.
You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer.
For the United States, it is $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52. In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to moonsault@mediaplusint.com. For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52.
If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.
If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can get one free classic issue of your choice sent to you today. With a 40-issue subscription, you can get two free classic issues.
Wrestling Observer Newsletter BACK ISSUE
READ IT HERE: May 24, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: ECW Hardcore Heaven/WWF No Mercy – Amidst rumors flying everywhere of the possible demise of the company and others who are talking that the company is a short period away from growing bigger than ever, the ECW Hardcore Heaven PPV came off like a show that was a bridge for the company to something new, but when it was over, there were still no answers over whether what is new is good news or bad news… Current subscribers click here to continue reading.
WEDNESDAY NEWS UPDATE
WWE
In a recent interview with Business Insider, Stephanie McMahon was asked about Brock Lesnar fighting at UFC 200 and gave interesting insight into the WWE’s thought process. McMahon describes the fight as something they don’t necessarily support, but outlines why she feels the WWE and UFC are not in competition with each other.
As discussed on Wrestling Observer Radio, everyone in the WWE Cruiserweight Classic had to actually make weight for the tournament. WWE posted the video last night. Also, in case you missed the opening ceremonies, that’s on YouTube as well and has well over 700,000 views already.
The Huntington, WV Herald-Dispatch has a short article on Cesaro’s path to the WWE and what it takes to make it in professional wrestling in advance of Sunday’s WWE house show in the area.
PRO WRESTLING
Dave Bautista joined former WWE writer Alex Greenfield for a particularly noteworthy conversation on Wednesday’s MLW Radio Writers Room podcast. Bautista talks candidly about the creative dissatisfaction he had with his 2014 WWE run, his thoughts on modern WWE crowds and leaving the company originally in part because of acting opportunities being given to John Cena that weren’t afforded to him.
Ring Rust Radio had former TNA World Heavyweight Champion Drew Galloway on the show this week.
Pro Wrestling Guerrilla announced Dalton Castle, Pete Dunne, Sami Callihan, Tommy End, Trevor Lee, Adam Cole, John Hennigan (Lucha Underground’s Johnny Mundo and the former John Morrison) and Jack Gallagher as the next entrants in their 2016 Battle of Los Angeles tournament.
Evolve will hold WWE Cruiserweight Classic Spotlight Matches at their events this summer. Announced matches are: Johnny Gargano vs. Cedric Alexander and Zack Sabre Jr. vs. TJ Perkins at Evolve 64 on July 16th in Queens, NY. Tommaso Ciampa vs. Cedric Alexander at Evolve 65 on July 17th in Melrose, MA. Drew Gulak vs. Tony Nese and TJ Perkins vs. Cedric Alexander at Evolve 66 on August 19th in Joppa, MD. And Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Cedric Alexander at Evolve 67 on August 20th in Brooklyn, NY.
Emmanuel Sanchez vs. Daniel Weichel has been added to Bellator 159, set for Friday, July 22nd in Mulvane, KS.
One of WSOF’s top prospects returns to action as Phil Hawes (4-0) faces veteran Louis Taylor (12-3) in a middleweight fight on their Everett, WA, show on July 30th. We’re still awaiting word if that will be in conjunction with Bryan Alvarez Appreciation Night.
Miscellaneous
Today, Headlock for Hunger presents Jim Ross and Jimmy Garvin. They will be at Ingles store 7, on Tunnel 29 road in Asheville, North Carolina, from 4:30-7:00. This is a food drive.
Ian Hamilton has a review of the WhatCulture “Loaded” debut YouTube show on BackBodyDrop.com.
Here’s more on the University of Minnesota drug scandal. According to the article, coach J Robinson told police investigators in April that he had “fully taken care of” his team’s drug problem and refused to turn over the names of student-athletes involved.
Results: Paragon Pro Wrestling on Fight Network June 26 – PPW champion Alex Chamberlain defeated Lemon Drop, Scotty O’Shea and Kid Quick defeated Royce Isaacs and Hubby Cub, Gangrel defeated Beast the Butcher, PPW tag team champions Wes Brisco and Jesse Sorenson retained the titles defeating former champions Caleb Konley and Drew Donovan.
Nigel McGuinness has a new podcast up on iTunes. It’s not really wrestling oriented but if you’re interested, it is called “My Unconventional Life”.
SUMMER EVENTS CALENDAR
July 1- PWEclipse – Presents a free event for Canada day at Lakeview Park, Oshawa.
July 1 – Pure Wrestling Association is proud to announce our 7th year as part of the Canada Day Celebration. Riverside Park Cambridge, Cambridge, Ontario N3H.
July 2 – Stars of Wrestling from Alameda, CA at the Alameda Point Gym has Bobby Lashley, Carlito and The Boogeyman appearing.
July 2 – NWA Cajun Heat in Morgan City, LA at the Municipal Auditorium with Jax Dane vs. Mustang Mike for the NWA title, and an appearance by Kevin Nash
July 7 – Rock Solid Wrestling runs in Sudbury, ON.
July 9 – Smash Wrestling in Fort Erie, ONT at the Native Friendship Center. Chris Hero will headline this fundraising event.
July 16 – In Your Face Wrestling Presents: “Malicious Intent” – Polish Community Center, 225 Washington Avenue Extension, Albany, NY www.iyfwrestling.com
July 17 – Lucha by the Water ft Blue Demon Jr! – Harbourfront Centre Theatre, 231 Queens Quay West, Toronto, Ontario M5J 2G8, 3-6 pm. Tickets here.
July 17 – Premier Wrestling at the IFDES Lodge and Portuguese Hall in Gilroy, CA with Joe Graves vs. Gabriel Gallo for the Premier. Tickets at www.premierwrestle.com.
July 22 – Ignite Wrestling in Fort Pierce, FL at the National Guard Armory on a show with Lince Dorado, Mr. 450 Hammet, Lio Rush, Martin Stone, Los Ben Dejos, and more
July 22 – AIW runs on 7/22 in Cleveland, OH, with Ethan Page vs. Josh Prohibition vs. Josh Alexander, and Johnny Gargano & Candice LeRae vs. Ethan Carter III & Karlee Perez
July 22 – The Lou Thesz Hall of Fame weekend show in Waterloo, IA, featuring Ricochet vs. Sami Callihan, Wes Brisco, B. Brian Blair, Jessika Havok, Tessa Blanchard, a steel cage match and more – This is the weekend Dave Meltzer will be honored.
July 23 – Live Pro Wrestling, Glengarry Sports Palace, 170 McDonald Blvd. Alexandria, Ontario
July 23 – AAW in Merrionnette Park, IL, with Sami Callihan vs. Pentagon Jr., Zack Sabre Jr., Marty Scurll; Tommaso Ciampa; Fenix; Johnny Gargano. Here’s what you missed.
July 23 – Masters of Ring Entertainment in Wilmington, NC, as part of Pro Wrestling Fan Expo 3 will feature Jeff Jarrett vs. ECIII vs. James Storm, announced by Jarrett.
July 24 – Fenix vs. Pentagon Jr. headlines for Lucha Libre New York at Club LaBoom in Queens, NY
July 30 – WSOF32: Moraes vs. Hill 2 – Live on NBCSN from Everett, Washington
July 30 – Smash Wrestling – Oshawa Music Hall, 39 King St E, Oshawa, Ontario L1H 1B2
July 31 – BATTLEWAR 36; Les Foufounes Électriques, 87 Sainte-Catherine Street East Montreal, QC
