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  • Daily Update: Chris Leben signs with Bellator, AJ Styles gimmick, Hendricks vs Thompson

    UFC Fight Night on FS1

    The show tonight scheduled for Fox Sports 1 started out as UFC 196 with current heavyweight champ Fabricio Werdum against Cain Valezquez in a PPV.  A rematch from a first fight that saw Cain handily beaten by Werdum with a guillotine choke in the 3rd round.  They changed to Werdum against Stipe Miocic and then quickly scratched that out completely when Werdum also claimed an injury.  After a few days the whole show was switched from a PPV to UFC Fight Night to air on Fox Sports 1.  

    Which brings us to the current and final main event of Stephen Thompson vs Johny Hendricks.  Leading into this fight Hendricks fought current welterweight champ twice, beating him in the first and losing the second, both 5 round decisions.  Hendricks then bested Matt Brown in a 3 round decision which was almost a year ago.  Thompson is on a 5 fight win streak since losing a decision to Matt Brown.  He last fought last July against Jake Ellenburger knocking him out with a spinning hook kick!  This should be a good one.

    Also, on the card is Roy Nelson vs Jared Rosholt and Ovince Saint Preux vs Rafael Cavalcante.  This is also the show that has Mickey Gall, who is the potentional opponent for CM Punk for this June or July.  If Gall beats Mike Jackson he will most likely face CM Punk.  This is a near PPV level event and features a lot more talent than most Fox Sports 1 UFC Fight Nights.  It is definitely worth a look.

    Follow along with F4WOnline.com’s live coverage with Dave Meltzer.

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

    Fight Pass at 7 p.m. Eastern

    Arten Lobov vs. Alex White

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

    FS 1 at 8 p.m.

    Noad Lahat vs. Diego Rivas

    Ray Borg vs. Justin Scoggins

    Damian Grabowski vs. Derrick Lewis

    K.J. Noons vs. Josh Burkman

    Mike Pyle vs. Sean Spencer

    Misha Cirkunov vs. Alex Nicholson

    Joseph Benavidez vs. Zach Makovsky

    Rafael Feijao Cavalcante vs. Ovince Saint Preux

    Jared Rosholt vs. Roy Nelson

    Johny Hendricks vs. Stephen Thompson

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

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

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

    If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our new Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today!

    Figure Four Weekly

    Figure Four Weekly 2/1/2016: Weekly Hogan/Gawker update
    A look at the past weeks developments in the Hulk Hogan and Gawker lawsuit.

    Wrestling Observer Newsletter

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

    The new double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter looks at Bret Hart’s battle with cancer, his discussions about it, and updates on the situation. The most detailed coverage of the last month of Lucha Underground’s second season, backstage news, season three, lots of business notes.  Full coverage of all the Ultima Lucha 2 matches and direction. Nakamura’s final day with NJPW, where Nakamura and New Japan go now, his background and building the IC title, the next two New Japan PPV shows to this weekend’s biggest event.

    Fast Lane and WrestleMania, what’s up with Undertaker, WWE injury updates, the next WWE Network special, Licensing issue with new WWE signees, notes on the next NXT Takeover show, a look at all the TV building the next Takeover show, who led to a huge increase in demand for WWE tickets, next WWE show in Madison Square Garden update, Nakamura updates, WWE performer wants to compete in the Olympics and what former pro wrestler went back to the Olympics to medal, Lesnar’s schedule, Tough Enough winner starts out, Other Tough Enough competitors start out, change in Rumble plans, New WWE Network series based on wrestling matches, new WWE movie, WWE’s tour of Germany this coming week, more on The Rock’s segment on Raw.

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

    A huge look at the life and career of Archie “The Stomper” Gouldie, one of the most memorable wrestling characters of his generation, stories about him, his gimmick, how big a star he was in his heyday, his incredibly long career title history, how he was two very different successful characters, and his most famous angles and biggest bouts. We also have a lot of comments from people who knew him, including how he changed the life and career of J.J. Dillon. The life and career of the original Espectrito, the best heel mini of his generation including when he main evented the Los Angeles Sports Arena, a rarity for a mini.

    We also look at Saturday’s UFC , what’s next for the winners, thoughts on Sage Northcutt, as well as business notes on the show and match-by-match coverage.

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

    You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer

    You can also order print issues at www.paypal.com directing funds to dave@wrestlingobserver.com

    Rates are:

    For the United States, it is $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52.  In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to moonsault@mediaplusint.com  For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52.

    If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.

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

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

    Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE – February 15, 1988 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: A Tale of Two Hebners: All the details on Hulk Hogan losing the WWF title to Andre the Giant in a historic angle, plus tons of news and notes.

    SATURDAY UPDATE

    In case you missed it, former UFC star and the once-retired Chris Leben (22-11) has signed with Bellator, joining fellow TUF 1 cast member Josh Koscheck. No fight or weight class was announced, however. Leben holds the UFC record for most fights in the middleweight division (22) and retired after being KO’d by Uriah Hall in 2013. Fights with Koscheck or even Stephan Bonnar are possibilities. While Leben is now under contract, Bellator reportedly has no interest in free agent and highly ranked UFC bantamweight Aljamain Sterling.

    WWE/Pro Wrestling

    • Mattel, WWE’s action figure licensee, is reportedly in merger talks with Hasbro, who held the license in the first half of the ‘90s. This would be a pretty huge development in the toy world.
    • AJ Styles confirmed on Chris Jericho’s podcast what was pretty obvious from watching Smackdown, that being that the calf killer will be renamed the calf crusher in WWE, which actually would be the legitimate name for the hold.  He also said Vince McMahon’s idea for his character is The Pitbull, a smaller guy who has to fight for everything he gets.
    • Tough Enough alumnus Patrick Clark made his NXT debut last night in Lakeland.

    UFC/MMA

    MISC

    • It looks like ROH has a new lighting grid that they will start using at tonight’s TV taping at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium, which is probably the biggest and nicest arena they’ve shot at to date.
    • A happy go lucky Jim Cornette is back for the latest episode of 6:05 Superpodcast with David Bixenspan and Brian Last talking about a ton of different old-school topics including Randy Savage’s early years, knowing Eddie Gilbert from their teens and then being the last promoter to book him in the continental United States, Stan Lane’s wig, bad audition videos, and much more. As a preview, you can check out Jim doing commentary on one memorably bad audition video on YouTube.
    • At Fightland, Jack Slack goes over some of pro wrestling’s most legitimate techniques.
    • Raymond Rougeau talks about his dealings with the Ultimate Warrior in this video.

    ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY: Daily pro wrestling history (02/06): Harley Race wins the NWA World Title

  • UFC Fight Night 82 DFS Playbook: value picks, who to avoid

    Another week, another UFC fight card, this time coming from Las Vegas, Nevada. UFC Fight Night 82 is headlined by a welterweight bout between Johny Hendricks and Stephen Thompson, and below are our studs, value plays and fighters to avoid when making your DraftKings line-up for the event.

    STUDS

    Mickey Gall ($10,900)

    It seems odd that putting a fighter with a 1-0 record making his UFC debut as a top play for fantasy, but Mickey Gall is a top play on this card. He’s fighting Mike Jackson, who is making his professional debut and hasn’t had an amateur MMA fight in some time (he has done boxing and kickboxing bouts though). Gall has a date set against C.M. Punk should he get past Jackson, and he should. Gall doesn’t have the technical skills that make him ready for UFC competition, which is why he gets a debut opponent. This fight is set up for Gall to get a win and move onto Punk, and he probably score a finish as well. Gall is a solid play on the day.

    Ovince Saint Preux ($10,700)

    Ovince Saint Preux is looking to rebound from a disappointing loss to Glover Teixeira in August, and he has a perfect match-up against Rafael Cavalcante on Saturday night. Cavalcante has seemed to regress over the years due to drug suspensions and injuries, and he either knocks his opponent out or gets knocked out. Saint Preux hasn’t suffered a knockout loss in over six years, and he’s much more talented now. Saint Preux is a finisher, winning his last five fights by finish, and he’s got the reach, height and overall advantage over Cavalcante. He likely finishes him inside of two rounds, so he is a very good play on the night.

    VALUE PLAYS

    Stephen Thompson ($9,000)

    Stephen Thompson is rising in the welterweight division, winning five straight fights and looking very impressive in them. He gets the biggest test of his career against Johny Hendricks in the main event, and he has some good value at his salary. That has to do with the bout going five rounds, and I see it going the full 25 minutes. Whether he can win is the big question as Hendricks will likely do enough on the feet and get takedowns to win. Thompson can win the fight if he can keep it on the feet, but that’s a question. I see him as a risk, but he has excellent value in a fight that can go 25 minutes.

    Justin Scoggins ($8,900)

    Justin Scoggins has a tough fight against Ray Borg, but both are solid prospects in the flyweight division who have exciting fights. Scoggins has been a finisher in his career, scoring seven of his ten wins by finish. He only has one UFC win by finish, and Borg is a tough fighter to finish. The difference in salaries between the two seems a little long, but Borg has been on a solid streak lately while Scoggins is just 1-2 in his last three. His salary makes him a good value pick as he has a good chance at scoring an upset over Borg and it will allow you to spend bigger for your roster.

    FIGHTERS TO AVOID

    Artem Lobov ($9,800)

    Artem Lobov scored a whopping one point in his UFC debut against Ryan Hall. Over the course of 15 minutes, he landed two significant strikes. That is it. He is not a UFC caliber fighter, but he gets a second chance against Alex White. It is less than two months after the bout against Hall and in a lower weight class. White is just 1-2 in the UFC, but won his first ten career fights and nine came by stoppage. Lobov is durable and likely won’t be finished, but I don’t see much upside in him or him even getting the win. I recommend avoiding him at all costs.

    Mike Pyle ($9,400)

    Mike Pyle is a veteran fighter, but as he has just turned 40-years-old, it is likely that his career has seen better days. He has lost three of his last four fights, and he was finished quickly in two of those losses. He faces Sean Spencer on Saturday night, and Spencer is a grinder type fighter who can be a sneaky finisher. He hasn’t finished anyone inside the Octagon yet, though, but Pyle’s chin may not be what is used to be. At worst, it will be a grinding affair and Spencer will have the advantage if it goes to the scorecards. Pyle will be a fighter we will be avoiding in our line-ups.

    OUR LINE-UPS

    RYAN FREDERICK- Mickey Gall ($10,900), Ovince Saint Preux ($10,700), Johny Hendricks ($10,400), K.J. Noons ($9,300), Zach Makovsky ($8,600)

    I’m going with Mickey Gall to finish Mike Jackson. There isn’t a lot of research you can do one a guy with one professional bout and two amateur bouts, but the fight is what it is, and I think he gets the finish of Jackson. Ovince Saint Preux has huge upside in his fight against Rafael Cavalcante. Saint Preux is a finisher and he should get one against a fading opponent. Johny Hendricks was a tough choice, but I think the main event goes the distance and he gets the decision on a lot of takedowns, and those score points. K.J. Noons hits hard and with a lot of volume, and Josh Burkman has been a huge disappointment in his UFC return. Noons has a very good chance of getting a finish of Burkman, who has been finished in his last two fights. With my remaining salary, I’m going with Zach Makovsky. Honestly, I don’t think he will beat Joseph Benavidez, but I don’t see him getting finished, which says a lot about the rest of the fighters left with the remaining salary I had. Just going 15 minutes, however the fight goes, should get me more than the rest of the bunch.

    PAUL FONTAINE- Ray Borg ($10,500), Johny Hendricks ($10,400), Damian Grabowski ($9,700), Artem Lobov ($9,800), KJ Noons ($9,300)

    If last week is any indication, your best bet is probably to pick the opponents of everyone on my team. That said, it’s a new week so let’s try this again. Hendricks has lost two fights in the last 5 years and both of those were questionable. He’s a lock in my book to either score an early KO or win a grinding decision in which he lands a lot of strikes.  Grabowski is making his UFC debut but is very experienced and a submission expert. I like him to score a quick stoppage win over Derrick Lewis. Ray Borg has finishing ability at 125, rare for the division. At just 22, he’s a future title challenger and this could be his coming out party. Lobov has a lot of power for the featherweight division and his opponent, Alex White, is susceptible to the KO. After his embarrassing performance at the TUF finale, I like Lobov to rebound here. Noons is a KO specialist and I think the weight cut is going to affect his opponent Josh Burkman more. Burkman hasn’t won since returning to UFC and I don’t think that will change here. 

    PEACH MACHINE- Ovince Saint Preux ($10,700), Johny Hendricks ($10,400), Artem Lobov ($9,800), Derrick Lewis ($9,700), Jared Rosholt ($9,200)

    Another 4-1 week last week. I like my picks again, but this time I went with a couple of heavyweights from which I usually shy away. Derrick Lewis is a monster and I’m banking on an early KO… Same thing with Rosholt. Nelson has lost three in a row and while his heart will still be there, his chin won’t… OSP should be able to take Cavalcante down and beat him that way. That’s the template to win. Should OSP decide to make this a stand up battle, that’s trouble for him… Hendricks better be on his game or he’s done at 170. I’m thinking he’ll get inside and touch Thompson’s chin and get the finish at some point in five rounds… The template to beat Lobov is Ryan Hall. Alex White is not Ryan Hall. Lobov by KO.

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

    TNA Released Awesome Kong

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

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

    A statement from TNA:

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

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

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

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

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

    R’Mandell Cameron vs. Derek Getzel

    Kuchlong Kuchlong vs Nate Richardson

    Chase Waldon vs. Justin  Winkels-Comparetto

    Antonio Trocoli vs. Jacob Volkmann

    Brock Larson vs. Travis Coyle

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

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

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

    Fight Pass at 7 p.m. Eastern

    Arten Lobov vs. Alex White

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

    FS 1 at 8 p.m.

    Noad Lahat vs. Diego Rivas

    Ray Borg vs. Justin Scoggins

    Damian Grabowski vs. Derrick Lewis

    K.J. Noons vs. Josh Burkman

    Mike Pyle vs. Sean Spencer

    Misha Cirkunov vs. Alex Nicholson

    Joseph Benavidez vs. Zach Makovsky

    Rafael Feijao Cavalcante vs. Ovince Saint Preux

    Jared Rosholt vs. Roy Nelson

    Johny Hendricks vs. Stephen Thompson

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

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

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

    If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our new Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today!

    Figure Four Weekly

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

    Wrestling Observer Newsletter

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

    The new double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter looks at Bret Hart’s battle with cancer, his discussions about it, and updates on the situation. The most detailed coverage of the last month of Lucha Underground’s second season, backstage news, season three, lots of business notes.  Full coverage of all the Ultima Lucha 2 matches and direction. Nakamura’s final day with NJPW, where Nakamura and New Japan go now, his background and building the IC title, the next two New Japan PPV shows to this weekend’s biggest event.

    Fast Lane and WrestleMania, what’s up with Undertaker, WWE injury updates, the next WWE Network special, Licensing issue with new WWE signees, notes on the next NXT Takeover show, a look at all the TV building the next Takeover show, who led to a huge increase in demand for WWE tickets, next WWE show in Madison Square Garden update, Nakamura updates, WWE performer wants to compete in the Olympics and what former pro wrestler went back to the Olympics to medal, Lesnar’s schedule, Tough Enough winner starts out, Other Tough Enough competitors start out, change in Rumble plans, New WWE Network series based on wrestling matches, new WWE movie, WWE’s tour of Germany this coming week, more on The Rock’s segment on Raw.

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

    A huge look at the life and career of Archie “The Stomper” Gouldie, one of the most memorable wrestling characters of his generation, stories about him, his gimmick, how big a star he was in his heyday, his incredibly long career title history, how he was two very different successful characters, and his most famous angles and biggest bouts. We also have a lot of comments from people who knew him, including how he changed the life and career of J.J. Dillon. The life and career of the original Espectrito, the best heel mini of his generation including when he main evented the Los Angeles Sports Arena, a rarity for a mini.

    We also look at Saturday’s UFC , what’s next for the winners, thoughts on Sage Northcutt, as well as business notes on the show and match-by-match coverage.

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

    You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer

    You can also order print issues at www.paypal.com directing funds to dave@wrestlingobserver.com

    Rates are:

    For the United States, it is $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52.  In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to moonsault@mediaplusint.com  For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52.

    If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.

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

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

    Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE – February 15, 1988 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: A Tale of Two Hebners: All the details on Hulk Hogan losing the WWF title to Andre the Giant in a historic angle, plus tons of news and notes.

    FRIDAY UPDATE

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

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

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

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

    WWE

    UFC/MMA

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

    MISC

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

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

  • WWE releases Bull Dempsey, hires AfterBuzz TV panelist

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    – The Big News: 

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

    – Show Recap: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    They announced Brock Lesnar for Raw in Seattle this Monday.

    A.J. Styles beat The Miz via submission 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    – Final Thoughts: 

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

    Best of luck to Bret “The Hitman” Hart. 

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

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

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

    Smackdown at 8 p.m. tonight is from Memphis

    Roman Reigns vs. Rusev

    Kalisto vs. Kevin Owens non-title

    Ryback vs. Erick Rowan

    A.J. Styles vs. The Miz

    The Social Outcasts vs. The New Day

    Charlotte vs Alicia Fox non-title

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

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

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

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

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

    R’Mandell Cameron vs. Derek Getzel

    Kuchlong Kuchlong vs Nate Richardson

    Chase Waldon vs. Justin  Winkels-Comparetto

    Antonio Trocoli vs. Jacob Volkmann

    Brock Larson vs. Travis Coyle

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

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

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

    Fight Pass at 7 p.m. Eastern

    Arten Lobov vs. Alex White

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

    FS 1 at 8 p.m.

    Noad Lahat vs. Diego Rivas

    Ray Borg vs. Justin Scoggins

    Damian Grabowski vs. Derrick Lewis

    K.J. Noons vs. Josh Burkman

    Mike Pyle vs. Sean Spencer

    Misha Cirkunov vs. Alex Nicholson

    Joseph Benavidez vs. Zach Makovsky

    Rafael Feijao Cavalcante vs. Ovince Saint Preux

    Jared Rosholt vs. Roy Nelson

    Johny Hendricks vs. Stephen Thompson

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

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

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

    If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our new Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today!

    Figure Four Weekly

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

    Wrestling Observer Newsletter

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

    The new double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter looks at Bret Hart’s battle with cancer, his discussions about it, and updates on the situation. The most detailed coverage of the last month of Lucha Underground’s second season, backstage news, season three, lots of business notes.  Full coverage of all the Ultima Lucha 2 matches and direction. Nakamura’s final day with NJPW, where Nakamura and New Japan go now, his background and building the IC title, the next two New Japan PPV shows to this weekend’s biggest event.

    Fast Lane and WrestleMania, what’s up with Undertaker, WWE injury updates, the next WWE Network special, Licensing issue with new WWE signees, notes on the next NXT Takeover show, a look at all the TV building the next Takeover show, who led to a huge increase in demand for WWE tickets, next WWE show in Madison Square Garden update, Nakamura updates, WWE performer wants to compete in the Olympics and what former pro wrestler went back to the Olympics to medal, Lesnar’s schedule, Tough Enough winner starts out, Other Tough Enough competitors start out, change in Rumble plans, New WWE Network series based on wrestling matches, new WWE movie, WWE’s tour of Germany this coming week, more on The Rock’s segment on Raw.

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

    A huge look at the life and career of Archie “The Stomper” Gouldie, one of the most memorable wrestling characters of his generation, stories about him, his gimmick, how big a star he was in his heyday, his incredibly long career title history, how he was two very different successful characters, and his most famous angles and biggest bouts. We also have a lot of comments from people who knew him, including how he changed the life and career of J.J. Dillon. The life and career of the original Espectrito, the best heel mini of his generation including when he main evented the Los Angeles Sports Arena, a rarity for a mini.

    We also look at Saturday’s UFC , what’s next for the winners, thoughts on Sage Northcutt, as well as business notes on the show and match-by-match coverage.

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

    You can also order the print Observer right now and get it delivered to your door via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer

    You can also order print issues at www.paypal.com directing funds to dave@wrestlingobserver.com

    Rates are:

    For the United States, it is $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52.  In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to moonsault@mediaplusint.com  For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52.

    If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.

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

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

    Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE – February 15, 1988 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: A Tale of Two Hebners: All the details on Hulk Hogan losing the WWF title to Andre the Giant in a historic angle, plus tons of news and notes.

    THURSDAY UPDATE

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

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

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

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

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

    WWE

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

    UFC

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

    Timothy Johnson vs. Marcin Tybura – heavyweights

    Mairbek Taisumov vs. Damir Hadzovic – lightweights

    Bojan Velickovic vs. Alessio DiChirico – welterweights

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

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

    MISCELLANEOUS

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

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

  • Axl Rotten has passed away at age 44

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

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

    A WWE statement:

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

  • WON Preview: Bret Hart diagnosed with cancer

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

    The new double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter looks at Bret Hart’s battle with cancer, his discussions about it, as well as updates on the situation and a look at his background.  We also have the most detailed coverage of the last month of season two of Lucha Underground, with backstage news on the product, an update on season three, lots of business notes, and full coverage of all the Ultima Lucha 2 matches and direction.  We also look at Shinsuke Nakamura’s final day with New Japan Pro Wrestling, where Nakamura and New Japan go from here, Nakamura’s background and  building the IC title, a look at the next two New Japan PPV shows and full coverage to this weekend’s biggest event.

    We also have updates on Fast Lane and WrestleMania, what’s up with Undertaker, WWE injury updates, updates on next WWE Network special, Licensing issue with new WWE signees, notes on the next NXT Takeover show, a look at all the TV building the next Takeover show, who led to a huge increase in demand for WWE tickets, next WWE show in Madison Square Garden update, Nakamura updates, WWE performer wants to compete in the Olympics and what former pro wrestler went back to the Olympics to medal, Lesnar’s schedule, Tough Enough winner starts out, Other Tough Enough competitors start out, change in Rumble plans, Plans for a WWE Network new series base don wrestling matches, new WWE movie, WWE’s tour of Germany this coming week, and more on Dwayne Johnson’s segment on Raw.

    We also look at all the WWE & NXT shows over the past weekend with details on the live events and business notes.

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

    We also have a huge look at the life and career of Archie “The Stomper” Gouldie, one of the most memorable wrestling characters of his generation, with stories about him, his gimmick, how big a star he was in his heyday, his incredibly long career title history, how he was two very different successful characters, and his most famous angles and biggest bouts.  We also have a lot of comments from people who knew him, including how he changed the life and career of J.J. Dillon.  We also look at the life and career of the original Espectrito, the best heel mini of his generation including when he main evented the Los Angeles Sports Arena, a rarity for a mini.

    We also look at Saturday’s UFC show, what’s next for the winners, thoughts on Serge Northcutt, as well as business notes on the show and match-by-match coverage.

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    Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: February 15, 1988 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: A Tale of Two Hebners
    All the details on Hulk Hogan losing the WWF title to Andre the Giant in a historic angle, plus tons of news and notes.

    The Wrestling Observer ranges weekly from 35,000 to 50,000 words covering pro wrestling and MMA internationally. Each issue has coverage and analysis of all the major news, plus every issue breaks major news stories before the Internet sties and has the most complete look at the pro wrestling and MMA business anywhere, plus history pieces available nowhere else.

    We’ve also got the weekly coverage of all the ratings of the major shows, results from the major league events held around the world, and the major TV show rundowns.

    Also in this issue:

    –First major show of the year at Arena Mexico and who is being honored

    –New Japans stars take next step of their careers in Mexico

    –Notes on the last Arena Mexico shows

    –Health update on one of the most famous wrestlers in Mexico

    –CMLL’s top star rips promoter over pay

    –Changes at the top in AAA

    –Update on AAA Rey de Reyes

    –New Japan financial updates

    –Goals for New Japan World

    –Future superstar starting with New Japan

    –New Japan developmental show on New Japan World against NOAH stars

    –TV station doing five hours of programming on the birthday of one of the generations’ biggest stars

    –DDT’s biggest show of the year

    –Is there a link between steroids and brain injuries

    –Update on a new startup promotion that has stalled

    –Update on Kevin Nash

    –Indie promotion takes a big step for a show later this year

    –Notes on talks with two U.S. groups on running a joint show and why they fell through

    –Jim Cornette and Lucha Underground

    –ROH’s May New Japan tour

    –More New Japan stars to ROH’s next PPV

    –More notes on ROH signings

    –Notes on Matt Hardy angle

    –TNA injury updates

    –Main TNA storylines through the month of March

    –TNA ratings news

    –TJ Perkins talks about his TNA departure

    –Cain Velasquez injury update

    –Tons of new UFC main events and timetables for the fights

    –Update on UFC in New York

    –Lots of new UFC fights

    –California looking at changing how weigh-ins are done and the good and bad of it

    –Jose Aldo make demands regarding next fight

    –Ronda Rousey’s mom talks about her coach

    –More UFC drug test issues

    –Bellator interested in major star who has just left UFC

    –Notes on Bellator’s first show of the year

    –Chael Sonnen on Celebrity Apprentice

    –Don Frye talks about an offer for him to fight and why it didn’t happen

    –WSOF loses title fight over contract issues.

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

    issues sent to you today.

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    If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.

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

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

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