Tag: headline

There should be a lot of interest in Raw today with the title change last night. The title change opens up a lot of new possibilities and also the question as to whether Roman Reigns run as the new face of the company is over. The title loss doesn’t mean that, as they were pushing Reigns as the top face during the entire Seth Rollins title run. It appears they will be doing a three-way deal with The Shield for now, but as far as face, heel, whatever, or shades of gray, and whether this is just a new method to push Reigns as top face with a new story, or a legit change in direction, tonight’s show could answer at least to a degree. With five weeks until the next PPV, I don’t expect a ton of direction as they usually go hard for three weeks. Plus, we’re still waiting on the Wyatt family return. Bray Wyatt has been around, but they want to reintroduce him and the family in a meaningful way.

We’re looking for your thoughts on yesterday’s New Japan Dominion and WWE Money in the Bank shows, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to Dave@WrestlingObserver.com.

Raw is live tonight in Phoenix with the fallout of Money in the Bank.

Smackdown and Main Event will be taped on Tuesday night in Tucson, AZ

We’re also looking for reports on Saturday’s WWE house show at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. 

THE ROUNDUP

• WWE announces draft for July 19th in Worcester, MA
• WWE claims 2017 Royal Rumble will not be in Los Angeles
• WWE Money In The Bank live results: Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins; AJ Styles vs. John Cena
• NJPW Dominion live results: Tetsuya Naito vs Kazuchika Okada for the IWGP HW Championship
• WWE moves Royal Rumble to Los Angeles for 2017

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 up 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 (yes he’ll be there), Vinny, Granny, and the rest of the group in beautiful Las Vegas this July.

Our “lunch with Granny” is good-to-go at Johnny Rockets (in Excalibur), just like last year, on Saturday July 9th, at 11:30 a.m. local time. We have the “patio area” reserved for us. We’ve also been granted 10% discounts. Just tell the cashier that you’re a part of “Granny’s Gang!” And of course… the star of this event, Ms. Gladys Gibson, just has to show up and be her charming self, and she eats for FREE! See ya soon!

​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 6/13/2016: Gawker files for bankruptcy – Depending on your point of view, Hulk Hogan went one step further towards either succeeding or failing in his lawsuit against Gawker Media last Friday when the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, the type that allows the company to continue operating. 

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

READ IT HERE: June 20, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: UFC 199/NXT Takeover reviews, UFC ownership bidding ending soon, more

This week’s Observer has 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’s also a breakdown on the WWE cruiserweight classic, and monthly WWE and TNA business figures.

Take a look 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, all covered in this week’s issue.

WWE looks at the possibility of adding PPV shows and the good and bad of that decision-making, and some economics of that decision. 

A key WWE musician passes away, 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, in this edition.

Take a look at the background of the NXT Takeover show, the debut of Andrade Cien Almas and what did and didn’t work, plus match-by-match coverage with star ratings.

For UFC 199, we look at the state of the middleweight title, how everything lines up, whom Michael Bisping wants next, as well as match-by-match coverage along with pay records for those on the show.

Finally, read how TNA saved its recent TV tapings and PPV, why they were close to not happening, where money came from, and what to look out for in the future. Plus, check out Slammiversary with match-by-match coverage and star ratings.

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

CLICK HERE FOR A FULL 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. 

Check out the latest online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: May 10, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Fans celebrate life of Giant Baba at Tokyo Dome, PRIDE 5 recap, more. The final chapter in the career and life of Shohei Baba took place on the biggest show he ever main evented and the biggest show he ever promoted–some three months after his death.

MONDAY NEWS UPDATE

Jeremy Botter just reported a UFC deal with WME/IMG for $4.2 billion was accepted. As noted, the bids were finalized on Thursday and the two leading bidders, WME/IMG and China Media Capital, were told UFC would get back to them within a few days. So from a timing standpoint, I was expecting this at any time. At this point we have not been able to independently confirm this story but WME/IMG was the favorite for the past week. The story lists Garry Cook as the probable new CEO in the spot formerly held by Lorenzo Fertitta. Cook in that spot had also been expected. The story states Dana White will stay and will also have some ownership interest. 

Kurt Angle was on Mark Madden’s radio show today and said that he has talked with HHH about coming back to WWE. The conversation took place six weeks ago and he said he didn’t know when he was coming in. That’s an about-face on Angle who the company had no talked with even though he’s been a free agent since the end of January and they wouldn’t even talk with him the year earlier when he was a free agent. As noted the WWE has been very aggressive of late when it comes to contacting talent, including people that in the past they had shown no interest in. They are looking to make as big a bang as possible over the next month leading to the brand launch. However, a few of the names who have been mentioned as being talked with have told us that their names on the list are incorrect, but they are people under contract to TNA or Lucha Underground. They were looking at introducing people ASAP, including before the draft takes place. The only names we can report that were called are MVP, Carlito and Stevie Richards, but that’s the tip of the iceberg. Not everyone called is looking at going, but enough are that the independent scene as far as companies that like to use ex-WWE stars to draw may get more difficult shortly.

The NBA seventh game between the Warriors and Cavs last night averaged 30.8 million viewers and peaked at 44.5 million at 10:30 p.m. It was the most watched NBA game since 1998. WWE has gotten a good deal of pub out of this because Kevin Love wore a Steve Austin T-shirt in the post-show news conference and LeBron James wore an Ultimate Warrior T-shirt today.

The report we had yesterday of Royal Rumble in Los Angeles at Staples Center is incorrect. It’s weird just because there was on sale info and a code out, but WWE officials have said the show is not there and the location will be announced later.

For Google trends, while the NBA playoffs with more than 10 million searches blew everything away, WWE did have 500,000 searches for Money in the Bank. That’s the same as UFC has been doing for its PPVs and what WWE has been doing for its recent shows as well. UFC on Saturday had 200,000 searches which is well above what they usually do for FS 1 shows. However, a lot of the UFC searches related to the future of Dana White and sale of the company. To that point, Brandon Howard has a very interesting article regarding Google searches and WWE popularity and why ratings may not be meaningful to track popularity, although they are still meaningful since TV is the leading source of revenue.

WWE

• Jerry Lawler and fiance Lauryn McBride appeared earlier today in front of Judge William Turner who ordered no contact, no communication, no texts and no phone calls between the two. Both were charged with domestic assault because police officers couldn’t determine a primary aggressor. Both were released on Friday. They have another court date on 7/1. 
• Alberto Del Rio suffered a bruised bone in taking that ladder bump late in last night’s match and got precautionary X-rays taken today.
• The 32 competitors in the cruiserweight tournament as well as some alternates are in Orlando right now. They are shooting personality profiles and undergoing complete physicals. The first round will be shot on Thursday and air over a number of weeks in July, with it being a weekly one hour show on the WWE Network, airing on Wednesday nights after NXT.
• The Steve Austin podcast with A.J. Styles starts immediately after Raw tonight in Phoenix.
• WWE legal has approved the John Cena T-shirt with the Pabst Blue Ribbon design. 
• WWE looks to be pushing Seth Rollins two minutes as champion as the shortest WWE title reign in history.
• WWE will be doing TVs in Southern California with an 8/8 show in Anaheim at the Honda Center and 8/9 show in Bakersfield. Presales start on Friday.
• New NXT dates have been announced for 8/4 in Birmingham, 8/5 in Pensacola and 8/6 in New Orleans.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Former WCW & WWE star Marc Mero underwent heart surgery last week in Cleveland to have his aorta replaced and install a heart valve. Best of luck to him in his recovery.
• Bellator announced that Friday’s show will stream live in Japan at AbemaTV, which is a streaming company partially owned by TV Asahi. The Japanese interest is because of Satoshi Ishii, who won a gold medal in judo in the 2008 Olympics, in the main event against Rampage Jackson. The show goes head-to-head with the ROH PPV.
• Ric Flair, Ricky Steamboat, Jeff Hardy, Kevin Nash, Scott Hall, Drew Galloway, Gunner, Chase Stevens and Terri Runnels appear this coming weekend at the Fanboy Expo Comic Con in Knoxville. For more info go to www.fanboyexpo.com. They will be appearing at different times between 6/24 and 6/26 and 10 a.m and 5 p.m.    
• ONE has announced a 7/2 show in Hefei China at the Olympic Sports Center with Narantungalag Jadambaa of Mongolia vs. Eric Kelly of The Philippines as the main event. ONE is the one major MMA and pro wrestling group that has made inroads into China with regular shows. 
• TCW on Saturday night in Rozzano, Italy: Claudio Campari & Martini b Death Mask & Paziente Zero, Violent Joe b Oxlade Black, Backslash b Sami Grayson, Carlo Birra b Rocco Gioiello, Scandalo b Turbo, II Marchese b Pain, Darkness II b Fenice Rossa (thanks to  Alessio Garbini)
• Friday night at the Auditorio in Tijuana: Dinastia Silver b Black Machine, Angel Vengador b Furia Salvaje, Enigma b Dinamico, Fantastik & Nino Hamburguesa & Fabi Apache NC Super Fly & Mari Apache & Polvo de Estrellas, Damian 666 & Bestia 666 & Rey Hours b Averno & Chessman & Pagano, Dr. Wagner Jr. & Chris Masters & La Parka b The Psycho Circus
• GMLW on 7/23 in Pacoma, CA at the San Fernando Valley Boys & Girls Club features Caristico, La Mascara, Misterioso and Misterioso Jr.
• Caristico (original Sin Cara) also appears on Sunday in Westminster, CO at the Imperium Events Center.
• Solar vs. Negro Navarro for the Maestros championships takes place Saturday in Andersen, MN at the Anderson School and Sunday in Chicago at Chi-Town Futbol.
• Laredo Kid vs. Brian Cage on 7/23 in Benbrook TX and the Camp Bowie Bingo Hall.
• Jim Ross and Jimmy Garvin along with Ingles Markets and Eblen Charities are promoting the Second Annual Headlock on Hunger Food drive in Asheville, NC, to benefit the Ingles/Eblen Food for Thought program.  Ross and Garvin will be collecting food and donations on 6/29 at the Ingles on Tunnel Rd. in Asheville, with ross from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. an Garvin from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Pro Wrestling Sheet reported that Sonjay Dutt will be featured on a track called Moguls by ripper Vice with plenty of wrestling lines listed. 
• James Gallagher (3-0) vs. Mike Cutting (6-5) has been added to the 7/16 Bellator show at the O2 Arena in London that is headlined by Paul Daley vs. Douglas Lima.
• CWE on 7/8 in Winnipeg at Rookie’s Sports Bar featuring a Lethal Lottery show.
• Kevin Nash, Scott Hall and Buff Bagwell on Friday night in Elizabethton, TN at the Evolution Sports Gym.
• Three men, Scott Knight, 23, Adam Knight, 20 and Joshua Knight, 19, have been charged with murder of a Ramsgate, UK woman 54-year-old Delyth Andrews with it claimed they used WWE and UFC moves including rainbow flips, T-bones, FUs and cliff hangers on her.  In November, emergency services were called when Andrews was found lying on her bad saying they jumped all over her, and X-rays showed multiple rib fractures as well as a fractured sternum and pelvis.  She said the brothers had taken her TV and jewelry and performed body slams on her.  The woman died from the injuries in December.  Joshua is alleged to have told police they did WWE moves on her.
• Creative Control podcast interview with Matt Riddle here.

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WWE MONEY IN THE BANK PPV AT 7 P.M. EASTERN TIME FROM THE T MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

*Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins for WWE title – On paper, this looks like a great match given that for all the negativity on Reigns, he delivers most of the time on the big shows and Rollins is one of the best in the business and it’s his first major match back from knee surgery. Reports on him from the house shows have been strong.  Whatever they do here, most likely it’ll build for a rematch because I can’t see this program being one match. The odds have made a major shift this afternoon to where Reigns went from a 15-to-1 favorite to Rollins now being a 4-to-1 favorite. It’s the only match with a big shift today..

*John Cena vs. A.J. Styles – Another expected strong match and again it’s the first match of what is expected to be a multi-match series. For that reason, with no title at stake, Styles is expected to win, particularly since he’s lost on his last three PPV matches. This is Cena’s first singles match back since shoulder surgery (he did do one tag team match in New Orleans off TV last week. Styles is listed at -1500 and Cena at +700.

*Sami Zayn vs. Kevin Owens vs. Alberto Del Rio vs. Chris Jericho vs. Dean Ambrose vs. Cesaro in the Money in the Bank ladder match – Given the talent and that these matches almost always deliver, this also looks strong. Given the way the angle went on Monday, the odds have moved to  Ambrose’s favor. WWE clearly wants you thinking Ambrose wins with the teased cash in tonight. A three-way Shield match was more than teased and should be happening in the next few months. The odds are Ambrose -1500, Kevin Owens +925, Chris Jericho +5000, Cesaro +10000 Sami Zayn +12500 and Alberto Del Rio +12500.

*New Day vs. Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson vs. Vaudevillains vs. Enzo Amore & Big Cass for tag team titles. This depends on what kind of time they are given, and with the main show going from six matches to eight, this probably won’t be going as long as it would have previously. New Day is listed as -1200, with Gallows & Anderson +750, Enzo & Cass +2500 and The Vaudevillains +15000.

*Rusev vs. Titus O’Neil for U.S. title – You could always do a one night title change and go back on Raw the next night as a surprise. But they’ve done short house show matches with Rusev over clean and nobody has said much about it. Rusev was -750 and O’Neil +650 in the odds.

*Natalya & Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte & Dana Brooke – When you have the champion in a tag match, the rule of thumb is to beat the champion and create a contender. But Natalya and Lynch have both gotten numerous title shots and lost. The Charlotte duo is favored at -620 and the Natalya duo is +410. Once again, this match is greatly dependent upon how much time they get, and with the additional matches, it’s probably less than it would have been.

*Apollo Crews vs. Sheamus – Crews should win since it’s his first big match, but right now it also doesn’t seem like they have much in the way of plans for either guy but Sheamus is a guy they bring back when they need a heel. And they could book to keep this one going. Crews is listed at -780 and Sheamus at +460. I expect this to be relatively short and solid work but not getting time to challenge for one of the best matches.

*Dolph Ziggler vs. Baron Corbin – Third show in a row for this. The first two matches were average and this probably will be in that range again. Corbin is a -510 favorite and Ziggler is at +340. Corbin has been winning their house show matches and usual house show protocol is for the face to go up.

*R-Truth & Goldust vs. Fandango & Tyler Breeze – This is a preshow match. The stuff thus far has been just there, with Fandango & Breeze getting wins and R-Truth & Goldust having a losing streak. The Goldust duo is listed at -490 and Breezango at +330. 

*Dudleys vs. Lucha Dragons – A late add preshow match with nothing building it at all. So they just needed something to fill time and be decent. Dudleys are listed at -420 and Dragons at +300. Really depends on what is next for both, as Dudleys haven’t been pushed at all, and there are five teams (with the Usos and the teams in the title match) ranked above both teams right now, six if you include the Shining Stars.

        The way it looks on paper, there’s no reason to tune into the preshow. This show will be carried by the top three matches. But on paper because of those matches it looks really strong. Live viewership will be lower than most due to the NBA championship seventh game, but with the network business model it’s not the negative it very much would have been a few years ago.

We’re looking for your thoughts on today’s New Japan Dominion and WWE Money in the Bank shows, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to Dave@WrestlingObserver.com.

Raw will be live on Monday night from Phoenix.

Smackdown and Main Event will be taped on Tuesday night in Tucson, AZ

We’re also looking for reports on Saturday’s WWE house show at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. 

THE ROUNDUP

• NJPW Dominion live results: Tetsuya Naito vs Kazuchika Okada for the IWGP HW Championship
• WWE moves Royal Rumble to Los Angeles for 2017
• UFC Ottawa Observer Panel picks McDonald vs Thompson; Cowboy vs Cote
• Fedor Emelianenko returns, wins controversial decision Friday
• Bellator 156 results & recap: Marcos Galvao vs Eduardo Dantos bantamweight title fight

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 up 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 (yes he’ll be there), Vinny, Granny, and the rest of the group in beautiful Las Vegas this July.

Our “lunch with Granny” is good-to-go at Johnny Rockets (in Excalibur), just like last year, on Saturday July 9th, at 11:30 a.m. local time. We have the “patio area” reserved for us. We’ve also been granted 10% discounts. Just tell the cashier that you’re a part of “Granny’s Gang!” And of course… the star of this event, Ms. Gladys Gibson, just has to show up and be her charming self, and she eats for FREE! See y’all in about three weeks!

​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 6/13/2016: Gawker files for bankruptcy – Depending on your point of view, Hulk Hogan went one step further towards either succeeding or failing in his lawsuit against Gawker Media last Friday when the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, the type that allows the company to continue operating. 

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

READ IT HERE: June 20, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: UFC 199/NXT Takeover reviews, UFC ownership bidding ending soon, more

This week’s Observer has 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’s also a breakdown on the WWE cruiserweight classic, and monthly WWE and TNA business figures.

Take a look 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, all covered in this week’s issue.

WWE looks at the possibility of adding PPV shows and the good and bad of that decision-making, and some economics of that decision. 

A key WWE musician passes away, 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, in this edition.

Take a look at the background of the NXT Takeover show, the debut of Andrade Cien Almas and what did and didn’t work, plus match-by-match coverage with star ratings.

For UFC 199, we look at the state of the middleweight title, how everything lines up, whom Michael Bisping wants next, as well as match-by-match coverage along with pay records for those on the show.

Finally, read how TNA saved its recent TV tapings and PPV, why they were close to not happening, where money came from, and what to look out for in the future. Plus, check out Slammiversary with match-by-match coverage and star ratings.

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

CLICK HERE FOR A FULL 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. 

Check out the latest online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: May 10, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Fans celebrate life of Giant Baba at Tokyo Dome, PRIDE 5 recap, more. The final chapter in the career and life of Shohei Baba took place on the biggest show he ever main evented and the biggest show he ever promoted–some three months after his death.

SUNDAY NEWS UPDATE

I want to wish everyone a Happy Father’s Day today. This has been a literal nonstop weekend but thus far the two big shows are a major two-for-two.

It was a very strong Dominion show earlier today, with the ladder match with Michael Elgin vs. Kenny Omega and the IWGP title match with Tetsuya Naito vs. Kazuchika Okada worth going out of your way to see.

Bryan and I are up talking the UFC sale and WWE calls to talent about bringing back stars from the past. We’ll be up tonight talking Money in the Bank, Dominion and taking e-mail questions to MailBag@WrestlingObserver.com.

Central Intelligence, starring Dwayne Johnson, opened on Friday and is estimated at doing $34.5 million in its opening weekend which is considered good. It was a distant No. 2 to Finding Dory at $136.2 million, the biggest opening weekend for an animated movie in history. Central Intelligence got very strong audience reviews.

For tonight’s Money in the Bank, WWE send a notice that the “Watch from the Beginning” feature on Xbox is not working. They said you can watch Money in the Bank live on Xbox but if you want to watch on a delay, they ask you look for an alternative device.

There has been a Go Fund Me to help pay for funeral expenses for Gypsy Joe.

WWE

• Jerry Lawler appeared on Cerrito live, a sports talk show in Memphis, and said that because of who he was, he was actually never placed in a jail cell. He said he hung around with the jail staff during his mandatory cooling off period. He said he hung around with the police and it felt like he was watching a live 12 hour police movie. He said he considers what happened late Thursday night/Friday morning a private matter but his fiance called 911 and then hung up, so the police came. He said nobody had any physical marks and reiterated that she was trying to leave and he thought she had too much to drunk and shouldn’t be driving. She said it was a shouting match and a lot of what was claimed to have been said actually wasn’t said such as him telling her to shoot herself. He claimed she said things that were never said to the police. He hasn’t spoken with McBride and can’t until tomorrow and said everything will be resolvedt omorrow and he feels it’ll be like it never happened and he’ll be back at his job soon enough. He said he was sorry about the bad press this is generating for the company.
• A story on Cesaro using kiniseotape on his bad shoulder is here. 
• This has come out before, about how Donald Trump donates very little to his charity but the McMahons donate millions to it. Key wrestling-related portion: By comparison, the WWE donated $4,000,000 after Trump promoted WrestleMania. Over the years, the biggest donors to Trump’s foundation are in fact Vince and Linda McMahon, who’ve given millions.
• Bill Apter and Howard Finkel predict tonight’s show.
• Sheamus promotes in New Zealand.

UFC

• Donald Cerrone at the press conference last night said, “According to my pay, I don’t mean shit to the UFC. But we’ll see. Maybe I’ll talk to Dana after this and see if we can figure that out.”
• Gegard Mousasi vs Thiago Santos has been added to UFC 200 on 7/9. Mousasi was scheduled in a big fight with Derek Brunson, but Brunson pulled out earlier today.
• Michael Bisping says he wants to defend his title in Manchester, England.
• For yesterday’s show, here is how the picks went:

5-0 Ryan Frederick

4-1 Dave Meltzer

3-2 Mike Sempervive, John Pollock, David Bixenspan

2-3 Josh Nason, Mike Sawyer, Frontrow Brian, Paul Fontaine

0-5 Steve Juon   

MISCELLANEOUS

• AAW did a sellout standing room only show of 600 fans on Friday night in Merionnette Park, IL: Kongo Kong & Dezmond Xavier won four-way over Eddie Machete & Conor Braxton, Candice LeRae & Heidi Lovelace and Shane Hollister & Markus Crane, Tommaso Ciampa b Josh Alexander, Jessicka Havok b Kimber Lee, Silas Young b Drew Gulak, Davey Vega & Mat Fitchett retained the tag titles over The Hooligans (Devin & Mason Cutter), Chris Hero b Drago, AR Fox b Aerostar to keep the AAW Heritage title, Trevor Lee won four-way over Andrew Everett, Cedric Alexander and Moose, Zack Sabre Jr. b Johnny Gargano, Sami Callihan & Dave Crist b Eddie Kingston & Homicide. The next show is 7/23 with Callihan defending the AAW title against Pentagon Jr., Fox vs. Fitchett for the Heritage title plus Fenix, Marty Scurll, Ciampa, Everett, Lee, Sabre Jr. and Gargano.
• Candice LeRae was injured last night. We don’t have details past she wrote a Twitter post that said, “4 hrs in the ER watching drunk people take precedent to my concussion, possibly broken nose, and a huge hole in my lip. Left. No diagnosis.”
• This week’s Elite show from Thursday night at Arena Mexico is here. 
• Vince Russo has joined the coaching staff at the Mercury Pro Wrestling Academy in Arvada CO. For more info you can write toiray@nrwprowrestling.com.
• TMZ ran a piece today on Tammy Sytch who said she was booze free for 90 days and loves being clean so much she doesn’t want to leave rehab.   
• The Boston Globe on if Chris Nowinski cost Dr Bennett Omalu an award is here.
• A story on Kenny Omega talking about his goals for today’s ladder match with Michael Elgin is here.
• Reader Aaron Craig visited the New Japan Lion Cafe in Tokyo and wrote about it.
• Kevin Eck talks to Orioles outfielder and huge WWE fan Adam Jones before today’s game. Ron Simmons makes a cameo.
• NWA Cajun Heat on 7/2 in Morgan City, LA at the Municipal Auditorium with two cage matches, with Jeremy Moore vs. Matt Riviera for the Mid South title and Greg Anthony vs. Americos for the national title. Kevin Nash will be making a guest appearance.
• Supreme Pro Wrestling today at 5 PM. at the SPW Arena in Sacramento is headlined by Scoot Robertson vs. JR Kratos. In honor of Father’s Day, all fathers get a free hot dog and a soda.
• Southern Illinois Championship Wrestling from last night in East Carondelet, IL before 200 fans (a bad house for them): Britton Tucker b Sean Vincent-DQ, Jason Vaughn b Matt Kenway, Bobby D b Dave Vaughn, Freddy Fury DCOR Purple Passion, Brandon Espinosa b Daniel Gunner, Troll b Big Jim Hoffarth, Ken Kasa & Gary Jackson b Chris Harges when Harges failed to win a fall in the 15:00 time limit, Kahagas b Johnny Blade, Ron Powers b Atilla Kahn-DQ (thanks to Larry Matysik)
• Ring Wars Carolinas on 6/25 in Fayetteville, NC at 7707 S. Raeford Rd.
• Lucha Xtreme TV from last night in Fresno:  Big Dogg b Eli Everfly, Skitzo b Dark Usagi, Anthony Idol b Manny Fernandez. Next TV taping is 7/16 at the Tioga Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Gardens as a combined wrestling and stand-up comedy show called Pain & Laughter (thanks to Jon Southerland)
• Insane Championship Wrestling runs tonight in Glasgow, Scotland at The Garage with Big Damo vs. Grado for the ICW title, plus Joe Coffey vs. Joe Hendry. The tease is that the winner will face Kurt Angle on the big show in Glasgow on 11/20 at the SSE Hydro. 
• Kurt Angle has been announced as a special guest for Booker T’s Reality of wrestling show on 8/20 in Houston.

TODAY IN PRO WRESTLING HISTORY: ​Styles wins TNA X Division Title; Jay Lethal wins ROH World Title

• Please send feedback to FeedBack@WrestlingObserver.com
• Please send show results and news tips to NewsTips@WrestlingObserver.com
• Please send Wrestling Observer Radio questions to MailBag@WrestlingObserver.com

Fedor Emelianenko “won” a crazy decision last night in his fight against Fabio Maldonado in St. Petersburg, Russia, for the EFN promotion. For those of you who have not seen the fight, head over to UFC Fight Pass and watch it immediately as it was an amazing spectacle. Our own Bryan Alvarez and “Filthy” Tom Lawlor did live commentary as the fight was happening.

It started with a crazy first round that could have been scored a 10-8 possibly for Maldonado, and possibly stopped. In rounds two and three, both men were extremely tired and it became quite the embarrassment, not quite the level of Dada 5000 vs. Kimbo Slice, but an embarrassment for Fedor who was once considered the greatest fighter of all time. Fedor won on score cards of 29-28, 29-28, and 28-28, earning him the majority decision. Our Dave Meltzer has much more on this story here.

[Dan Velten]

For this weekend, we have polls for WWE Money in the Bank and New Japan Dominion, so thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match for each show to Dave@WrestlingObserver.com. 

UFC ON SATURDAY FROM OTTAWA

Fight Pass at 6:45 p.m. Eastern time

• Ali Bagautinov (13-4) vs. Geane Herrera (9-1)
• Colby Covington (8-1) vs. Jonathan Meunier (7-0)
• Randa Markos (5-3) vs. Jocelyn Jones-Lybarger (6-2)
• Sam Alvey (26-7) vs. Elias Theodorou (11-1)

FS 2 at 8:30 p.m.

• Chris Beal (10-2) vs. Joe Soto (15-5)
• Krzysztof Jotko (17-1) vs. Tamdan McCrory (14-3)
• Mischa Cirkunov (11-2) vs. Ion Cutelebaba (11-1)
• Jason Saggo (11-2) vs. Leandro Silva (19-3-1)

FS 1 at 10:30 p.m.

• Joanne Calderwood (10-1) vs. Valerie Letourneau (8-4)
• Olivier Aubin Mercier (7-2) vs. Thibault Gouti (11-1)
• Steve Bosse (11-2) vs. Sean O’Connell (17-7)
• Donald Cerrone (29-7) vs. Patrick Cote (23-9)
• Stephen Thompson (12-1) vs. Rory MacDonald (18-3)

NEW JAPAN DOMINION AT 3 A.M. EASTERN TIME LATE SATURDAY/EARLY SUNDAY FROM OSAKA JO HALL ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

• Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima & Manabu Nakanishi vs. Jay White & Juice Robinson & David Finlay
• Togi Makabe & Yoshitatsu & Captain New Japan vs. Bad Luck Fale & Yujiro Takahashi & Adam Page
• Tomohiro Ishii & Yoshi-Hashi vs. Seiya Sanada & Bushi
• Hirooki Goto vs. Evil
• Ricochet & Matt Sydal vs. Young Bucks vs. Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly vs. Rocky Romero & Trent Baretta for IWGP jr. tag title in an elimination match
• Kushida vs. Will Ospreay for IWGP jr. title
• Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa vs. Mark & Jay Briscoe for IWGP tag team titles
• Yuji Nagata vs. Katsuyori Shibata for Never Open weight title
• Kenny Omega vs. Michael Elgin in a ladder match for IWGP IC title
• Tetsuya Naito vs. Kazuchika Okada for IWGP heavyweight title

WWE MONEY IN THE BANK PPV AT 7 P.M. EASTERN TIME FROM THE T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

• Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins for WWE title
• John Cena vs. A.J. Styles
• Sami Zayn vs. Kevin Owens vs. Alberto Del Rio vs. Chris Jericho vs. Dean Ambrose vs. Cesaro in the Money in the Bank ladder match
• New Day vs. Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson vs. Vaudevillains vs. Enzo Amore & Big Cass for tag team titles
• Rusev vs. Titus O’Neil for U.S. title
• Natalya & Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte & Dana Brooke
• Apollo Crews vs. Sheamus
• Dolph Ziggler vs. Baron Corbin
• Goldust & R-Truth vs. Breeze & Fandango (pre-show match)
• Dudleys vs. Lucha Dragons (pre-show match)

Raw will be live on Monday night from Phoenix.

Smackdown and Main Event will be taped on Tuesday night in Tucson, AZ.

We’re also looking for reports on Saturday’s WWE house show at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. 

THE ROUNDUP

• UFC Ottawa Observer Panel picks McDonald vs Thompson; Cowboy vs Cote
• Fedor Emelianenko returns, wins controversial decision Friday
• Bellator 156 results & recap: Marcos Galvao vs Eduardo Dantos bantamweight title fight
• Jerry Lawler & fiancee arrested for domestic assault, suspended by WWE
• Lucha Underground results: Pentagon Jr & Johnny Mundo thrive in Six to Survive

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 up 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 (yes he’ll be there), Vinny, Granny, and the rest of the group in beautiful Las Vegas this July.

Our “lunch with Granny” is good-to-go at Johnny Rockets (in Excalibur), just like last year, on Saturday July 9th, at 11:30 a.m. local time. We have the “patio area” reserved for us. We’ve also been granted 10% discounts. Just tell the cashier that you’re a part of “Granny’s Gang!” And of course… the star of this event, Ms. Gladys Gibson, just has to show up and be her charming self, and she eats for FREE! See y’all in about three weeks!

​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 6/13/2016: Gawker files for bankruptcy – Depending on your point of view, Hulk Hogan went one step further towards either succeeding or failing in his lawsuit against Gawker Media last Friday when the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, the type that allows the company to continue operating. 

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

READ IT HERE: June 20, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: UFC 199/NXT Takeover reviews, UFC ownership bidding ending soon, more

This week’s Observer has 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’s also a breakdown on the WWE cruiserweight classic, and monthly WWE and TNA business figures.

Take a look 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, all covered in this week’s issue.

WWE looks at the possibility of adding PPV shows and the good and bad of that decision-making, and some economics of that decision. 

A key WWE musician passes away, 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, in this edition.

Take a look at the background of the NXT Takeover show, the debut of Andrade Cien Almas and what did and didn’t work, plus match-by-match coverage with star ratings.

For UFC 199, we look at the state of the middleweight title, how everything lines up, whom Michael Bisping wants next, as well as match-by-match coverage along with pay records for those on the show.

Finally, read how TNA saved its recent TV tapings and PPV, why they were close to not happening, where money came from, and what to look out for in the future. Plus, check out Slammiversary with match-by-match coverage and star ratings.

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

CLICK HERE FOR A FULL PREVIEW.

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Check out the latest online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: May 10, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Fans celebrate life of Giant Baba at Tokyo Dome, PRIDE 5 recap, more. The final chapter in the career and life of Shohei Baba took place on the biggest show he ever main evented and the biggest show he ever promoted–some three months after his death.

SATURDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE & PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING

• Our Paul Fontaine passed on a clip of WWE’s John Cena Tuesday appearance on NBC’s Maya and Marty show. In the first skit, he played a firefighter with a group of other guys in the firehouse as they all talked about who might get selected for the firefighter calendar. The joke was that Cena is all jacked up and the rest are middle-aged, out of shape dudes. He got a good crowd reaction and showed great comedic timing as he always does.

• The second skit has to be seen to be believed. Cena played himself auditioning for the part of Hulk Hogan in “Hulk Hogan vs Gawker”, FX’s follow-up to “The People vs OJ Simpson”. His main competition for the role was David Schwimmer (played by Martin Short). The writers obviously knew all of the material in the case, as they had another actor playing James Van Der Beek, auditioning for the part of Bubba the Love Sponge. Cena’s Hogan impersonation was pretty funny and this is the type of thing you’d obviously never see on WWE.

• ROH’s Adam Cole talks battling pneumonia, joining Bullet Club, and plugs Best in the World.
• ROH is running a huge sale, now through Sunday, June 19th at 11:59 PM EST. 20% off ALL apparel and 35% off select DVDs – Ringside Members, tack on your 15% off discount, and save 35% off apparel and 50% DVDs.
• The Briscoes are ready for their match Dominion in Osaka Jo Hall.
• This article is about Drew Gulak and what he will bring to WWE.
• Sheamus does press to plug an upcoming WWE show in New Zealand.
• One writer admires the physique of Bray Wyatt ahead of his return to the ring.
• An editorial from the Huffington Post recommends it’s time to start watching WWE again.
• Titus O’Neil wrote an editorial for Newsweek focusing on fatherhood and Father’s Day.
• WWE congratulated the HBK Line and the Pittsburgh Penguins on winning the Stanley Cup by giving them replica title belts.
• CNN Money looks at WWE trying to “conquer” China.
• In a feature story from Southeast Asia, aspiring wrestlers chase their dreams in Malaysia.
• A reporter gets in the ring for a feature story on an upcoming indie show in Corpus Christi.
• Here is a gallery of photos from the first show for a wrestling promotion in Dubai.
• The Two Man Power Trip of Wrestling explore the relationship between politics and professional wrestling with Terrance Gerin aka RHINO and Rare Politics editor Jack Hunter. The show will have Lex Luger on this upcoming week.
• WWE Hall of Famer Luke Williams of the Bushwhackers was the latest guest on the Pancakes and Powerslams Show. He shared a number of road stories from his over five decades of being in the wrestling business.
• This week on 6:05 Superpodcast, Brian Last and David Bixenspan talk with Kurt Brown about Los Angeles wrestling, Brian Tramel about Dennis Coralluzzo in the “Dennis of the Week,” and AWA producer “Polish” Joe Ciupik (who confirms one of Greg Gagnes more infamous stories) in part two of their chat. Plus: A “What if?” discussion about the ramifications of Hulk Hogan never leaving the AWA, follow-ups on Bull Curry, and much more!

UFC & Mixed Martial Arts

• Yesterday’s NY Times had a full page devoted to Russian based MMA fighters who are making inroads into fighting. (thanks to Paul Kacprzak)
• Last night’s WSOF 31 show was one of the better shows in their history and worth checking out if you get a chance. The main event, which featured Blagoi Ivanov retaining his heavyweight title with a 5 round decision over Josh Copeland, is a legit fight of the year candidate and reminiscent of the Mark Hunt-Bigfoot Silva fight from a few years back.
• UFC Fight Pass will air a Vale Tudo Japan show at 3 am eastern early Sunday morning. The show features all Japanese fighters with little to no name value in North America.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Here’s an interesting article about the father of the toddler who was killed by the alligator in Florida. The father was a two time state wrestling champion in Nebraska.
• This is an interesting story on Dr. Omalu not getting a prestigious Boston University award, and how Chris Nowinski may be involved. (thanks to Matthew Dursin).
• Lebron James is using The Undertaker as inspiration as he attempts to bring his team back from a 3-1 deficit for the first time in NBA Finals history.
• The head football coach at the University of Michigan, Jim Harbaugh, apparently has a “brilliant” pro wrestling attention strategy.
• Borrowing a line from a Mick Foley book, one article titled “NBA Playoffs: the world is faker than pro wrestling” speculates about the potential of rigging games and unfair officiating in pro sports.
• Officials in Houston are still mulling over ideas for the Astrodome, which hosted WrestleMania in 2001 and a few Nitro broadcasts in the late 1990s. A county judge wants to put a parking garage underneath the stadium while an architect with a “bold new idea” wants to strip the structure down to basically its skeleton.
• Supreme Pro Wrestling returns to action this Sunday, June 19th at SPW Arena – bell time is 5pm! In honor of Father’s Day — all Fathers get a free Hot Dog and a Soda!

TODAY IN PRO WRESTLING HISTORY:Brisco Brothers win NWA Tag Team Titles, CM Punk wins ROH Title

​SUMMER EVENTS CALENDAR

• TONIGHT – Ronin Pro Wrestling is in Pembroke Pines, FL at the Broward College South Campus Gym as Joey Ryan, Candice LaRae and Johnny Gargano.
• TONIGHT – MCW “Base Brawl” at the Regency Furniture Stadium, 11765 St. Linus DR in Waldorf, MD. Tickets here. Ron Simmons, Billy Gunn, and X-Pac will be there.
• TONIGHT – UFC in Ottawa: Rory McDonald vs. Stephen Thompson
• TONIGHT – New England Fights (NEF) returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.” Tickets for “NEF 24” are on sale now.
• TOMORROW – Steel Pro Wrestling runs at the KoC in Hamilton, ON.
• TOMORROW – New Japan Dominion – Tetsuya Naito vs. Kazuchika Okada in an IWGP title match and Kenny Omega vs. Michael Elgin in a ladder match for the IC title
• TOMORROW – WWE Money in the Bank from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas
• June 24 – ROH Best in the World from Concord, NC with Jay Lethal vs. Jay Briscoe for the ROH title
• June 24 – Isao Kobayashi vs. Justin Lawrence will appear on Spike.com at the Bellator Dynamite show in St. Louis. This is a combo MMA & kickboxing show.
• June 24 – Thrash Wrestling “Passion for Smashin” – Schubert Centre 3505 30th Avenue, Vernon, British Columbia V1T 2E6
• June 25 – The United Wrestling Coalition returns to Kelly’s Bar/Banquet Hall in Wrightstown, New Jersey for UWC Fan Appreciation Night!
• June 25 – PWA Night of Champions – Century Casino Showroom – 1010 42 Ave SE Calgary, Alberta
• June 25 – Pure Wrestling Association, Wakas Community Hall, 180 Tsulquate Rd, Port Hardy, BC
• June 25 – Great North Wrestling returns to the Pembroke Memorial Centre, featuring Nicolai Volkoff. Tickets available here.
• June 25 – The UWC returns to Kelly’s Bar/Banquet Hall, 14 Railroad Avenue, Wrightstown, NJ 08562. More information here.
• June 25 – Ultima Lucha tapings in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles at The Temple
• June 26 – Ultima Lucha tapings in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles at The Temple
• 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 7-11 The 10th annual Wrestling Observer/F4W convention in Las Vegas, EdinSanAntonio has information up on Facebook, or email him F4Wfan@hotmail.com
• July 9 – Acclaim Pro Wrestling presents: Star-Mageddon 6!
• July 9 – Smash Wrestling in Fort Erie, ONT at the Native Friendship Center. Chris Hero will headline this fundraising event.
• 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 23 – Chikara Pro announced a doubleheader event at Toronto’s Franklin Horner Community Center.
• July 24 – Fenix vs. Pentagon Jr. headlines for Lucha Libre New York at Club LaBoom in Queens, NY

• Please send feedback to FeedBack@WrestlingObserver.com
• Please send show results and news tips to NewsTips@WrestlingObserver.com
• Please send Wrestling Observer Radio questions to MailBag@WrestlingObserver.com

Today’s biggest story is the arrest of Jerry Lawler and fiance Lauryn McBride in Memphis. There is a story on the front page on it. Lawler has been indefinitely suspended by WWE pending the completion of the case.

Final bids have been sent in to UFC for a 100 percent sale of the company. The companies have been told UFC is going to look over the bids and make its decision within a few days.

The Warriors-Cavs game last night going against Smackdown did 20,702,000 viewers, which is down from the 23,250,000 viers that the sixth game of the series did last year.  The seventh game goes head-to-head with Money in the Bank at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

We’re looking for reports on today’s NXT show in Plymouth, UK and the WWE house show in Salt Lake City (Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, A.J. Styles, Dean Ambrose, Alberto Del Rio, Cesaro, Chris Jericho, Charlotte, Sasha Banks, Becky Lynch, Karl Anderson, Luke Gallows, Usos) to NewsTips@WrestlingObserver.com.

For this weekend we have polls for WWE Money in the Bank and New Japan Dominion, so thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match for each show to Dave@WrestlingObserver.com. 

NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING RETURNS TWO HOUR SHOW ON AXS TV STARTING AT 8 P.M. EASTERN

• Hiroyoshi Tenzan vs. Tetsuya Naito
• Kota Ibushi vs. Togi Makabe
• Katsuyori Shibata vs. Doc Gallows
• Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. A.J. Styles  (this was one of the best matches of 2015)

BELLATOR LIVE ON SPIKE TV FROM THE SAVEMART CENTER IN FRESNO, CA AT 9 P.M. EASTERN TIME

• Chris Honeycutt vs. Mikkel Parlo
• Brandon Halsey vs. John Salter
• Thiago Jumbo Goncalves vs. Chidi Njokuani
• Marcos Galvao vs. Eduardo Dantas for bantamweight title

WORLD SERIES OF FIGHTING LIVE ON NBC SPORTS NETWORK AT 9 P.M. FROM MASHANTUCKET, CT FOXWOODS RESORTS CASINO

• Phil Hawes vs. Josh Key
• Sheymon Moraes vs. Luis Palomino
• John Howard vs. Mike arrant
• Jason High vs. Mike Ricci
• Blagoy Ivanov vs. Josh Copeland for heavyweight title

SHINE IPPV AT 9 P.M. AT www.WWNLive.com FROM YBOR CITY, FL

• Shine vs. Shimmer vs. TNA women’s title, loser of the fall loses title to winner of the fall:  Taylor made (Shine) vs. Madison Eagles (Shimmer) vs. Allysin Kay/Sienna (TNA)
• Marti Belle & Jayme Jameson vs. Evie & Shazza McKenzie
• Kellie Skater vs. Mia Yima (Jade) vs,. Santana Garrett vs. Nicole Matthews
• Su Yung vs. Kay Lee Ray
• Tessa Blanchard vs. Rachel Ellering
• Kellyanne vs. Chelsea Green
• Maria Maria & Luscious Latasha vs. Rhia O’Reilly & Viper

CMLL TONIGHT AT ARENA MEXICO AT 9:30 P.M. AT www.clarosports.com/en-vivo02/

• Oro Jr. & Soberano vs. Cancerbero & Raziel
• Estrellita & Princesa Sugei & Silueta vs. Reyna Isis & Seductora & Zeuxis
• Angel de Oro & Guerrero Maya Jr. & Stuka Jr. vs. Misterioso Jr. & Rey Bucanero & Shocker
• Marco Corleone & Maximo Sexy & Rey Cometa vs. Negro Casas & Cavernario & Mr. Niebla
• Ultimo Guerrero vs. Valiente for NWA Historic middleweight title
• Diamante Azul & Mistico & Volador Jr. vs. Euforia & La Mascara & Mephisto 

RESURRECTION FIGHTING ALLIANCE AT 10 P.M. FROM THE HAMMOND CIVIC CENTER IN HAMMOND, IN ON AXS TV

• Doug Deback vs Adam Ward
• Deray Davis vs. Bobby Nash
• Shaun Asher vs. Jordan Johnson
• Daniel Vizcaya vs. Joseph Gigliotti
• Mike Santiago vs. Luis Saldana

UFC ON SATURDAY FROM OTTAWA

Fight Pass at 6:45 p.m. Eastern time

• Ali Bagautinov (13-4) vs. Geane Herrera (9-1)
• Colby Covington (8-1) vs. Jonathan Meunier (7-0)
• Randa Markos (5-3) vs. Jocelyn Jones-Lybarger (6-2)
• Sam Alvey (26-7) vs. Elias Theodorou (11-1)

FS 2 at 8:30 p.m.

• Chris Beal (10-2) vs. Joe Soto (15-5)
• Krzysztof Jotko (17-1) vs. Tamdan McCrory (14-3)
• Mischa Cirkunov (11-2) vs. Ion Cutelebaba (11-1)
• Jason Saggo (11-2) vs. Leandro Silva (19-3-1)

FS 1 at 10:30 p.m.

• Joanne Calderwood (10-1) vs. Valerie Letourneau (8-4)
• Olivier Aubin Mercier (7-2) vs. Thibault Gouti (11-1)
• Steve Bosse (11-2) vs. Sean O’Connell (17-7)
• Donald Cerrone (29-7) vs. Patrick Cote (23-9)
• Stephen Thompson (12-1) vs. Rory MacDonald (18-3)

NEW JAPAN DOMINION AT 3 A.M. EASTERN TIME LATE SATURDAY/EARLY SUNDAY FROM OSAKA JO HALL ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

• Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima & Manabu Nakanishi vs. Jay White & Juice Robinson & David Finlay
• Togi Makabe & Yoshitatsu & Captain New Japan vs. Bad Luck Fale & Yujiro Takahashi & Adam Page
• Tomohiro Ishii & Yoshi-Hashi vs. Seiya Sanada & Bushi
• Hirooki Goto vs. Evil
• Ricochet & Matt Sydal vs. Young Bucks vs. Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly vs. Rocky Romero & Trent Baretta for IWGP jr. tag title in an elimination match
• Kushida vs. Will Ospreay for IWGP jr. title
• Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa vs. Mark & Jay Briscoe for IWGP tag team titles
• Yuji Nagata vs. Katsuyori Shibata for Never Open weight title
• Kenny Omega vs. Michael Elgin in a ladder match for IWGP IC title
• Tetsuya Naito vs. Kazuchika Okada for IWGP heavyweight title

WWE MONEY IN THE BANK PPV AT 7 P.M. EASTERN TIME FROM THE T MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

• Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins for WWE title
• John Cena vs. A.J. Styles
• Sami Zayn vs. Kevin Owens vs. Alberto Del Rio vs. Chris Jericho vs. Dean Ambrose vs. Cesaro in the Money in the Bank ladder match
• New Day vs. Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson vs. Vaudevillains vs. Enzo Amore & Big Cass for tag team titles
• Rusev vs. Titus O’Neil for U.S. title
• Natalya & Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte & Dana Brooke
• Apollo Crews vs. Sheamus (pre-show match)
• Dolph Ziggler vs. Baron Corbin (pre-show match)

Raw will be live on Monday night from Phoenix.

Smackdown and Main Event will be taped on Tuesday night in Tucson, AZ.

We’re also looking for reports on Saturday’s WWE house show at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. 

THE ROUND-UP

• Jerry Lawler & fiancee arrested for domestic assault, suspended by WWE
• Lucha Underground results: Pentagon Jr & Johnny Mundo thrive in Six to Survive
• NXT Bournemouth, England, live results: Finn Balor vs. Samoa Joe; Nakamura vs. Bobby Roode
• WWE inks deal with China’s PPTV, signs Bin Wang to developmental
• Gypsy Joe passes away at 82 years old

The 10th annual Wrestling Observer/F4W convention in Las Vegas takes place during UFC’s International Fight Week from July 7 – 11.EdinSanAntonio has information up on Facebook, or you can email him at F4Wfan@hotmail.com (Apparently Ed has blocked Bryan Alvarez from attendance in response to Bryan blocking Ed on Twitter… LOL) – It’s always a fun time, so hurry up and make your plans to join Dave Meltzer, Bryan Alvarez (yes he’ll be there), Vinny, Granny, and the rest of the group in beautiful Las Vegas this July.

Our “lunch with Granny” is good-to-go at Johnny Rockets (in Excalibur), just like last year, on Saturday July 9th, at 11:30 a.m. local time. We have the “patio area” reserved for us. We’ve also been granted 10% discounts. Just tell the cashier that you’re a part of “Granny’s Gang!” And of course… the star of this event, Ms. Gladys Gibson, just has to show up and be her charming self, and she eats for FREE! See y’all in about three weeks!

​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 6/13/2016: Gawker files for bankruptcy – Depending on your point of view, Hulk Hogan went one step further towards either succeeding or failing in his lawsuit against Gawker Media last Friday when the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, the type that allows the company to continue operating. 

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

READ IT HERE: June 20, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: UFC 199/NXT Takeover reviews, UFC ownership bidding ending soon, more

This week’s Observer has 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’s also a breakdown on the WWE cruiserweight classic, and monthly WWE and TNA business figures.

Take a look 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, all covered in this week’s issue.

WWE looks at the possibility of adding PPV shows and the good and bad of that decision-making, and some economics of that decision. 

A key WWE musician passes away, 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, in this edition.

Take a look at the background of the NXT Takeover show, the debut of Andrade Cien Almas and what did and didn’t work, plus match-by-match coverage with star ratings.

For UFC 199, we look at the state of the middleweight title, how everything lines up, whom Michael Bisping wants next, as well as match-by-match coverage along with pay records for those on the show.

Finally, read how TNA saved its recent TV tapings and PPV, why they were close to not happening, where money came from, and what to look out for in the future. Plus, check out Slammiversary with match-by-match coverage and star ratings.

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

CLICK HERE FOR A FULL 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. 

Check out the latest online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: May 10, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Fans celebrate life of Giant Baba at Tokyo Dome, PRIDE 5 recap, more. The final chapter in the career and life of Shohei Baba took place on the biggest show he ever main evented and the biggest show he ever promoted–some three months after his death.

FRIDAY NEWS UPDATE

For those attending our annual convention in Las Vegas from 7/7 to 7/10, the Las Vegas Fight Shop will be offering a 20 percent discount on anything if you are an Observer reader throughout the weekend. They also have Randy Couture signing from 6-8 p.m. on 7/8 and Nate Diaz from Noon to 2 p.m. on 7/9. Both signings require an Affliction T-shirt but you can get 20 percent off as well as a VIP line pass if you are coming in for the convention. For more information on the convention you can go here. 

The Cincinnati Gardens, a regular stop for pro wrestling for decades, is scheduled to be demolished this year. The building had been for sale for three years and was finally sold to the Port Authority. The Gardens opened in 1949. It was still the home of a flat track women’s Roller Derby team. It was best known as the home of the Cincinnati Royals of the NBA which featured Oscar Robertson, one of the all-time greats. The plan is to use the area for industrial redevelopment.

TNA has put Tuesday’s show on-line because of the problems with the show airing in its time slot.

TNA’s Ring Transportation manager Bob Rosen suffered a heart attack earlier this week while at the tapings. He wrote on his Facebook after being examined that he had 99 percent blockage. Best wishes to him on a complete recovery.

Spike TV will be appearing a one-hour documentary on Rampage Jackson tonight at 11 p.m. as a preview for his fight with Satoshi Ishii on 6/24 in St. Louis as the main event of Bellator Dynamite 2016.

WWE

• 2K Sports has added John Cena, Sasha Banks and Ultimate Warrior to the list of characters in WWE 2K17.
• Sasha Banks is on the cover of the new Muscle & Fitness Hers magazine.

UFC

• In Canada, the UFC prelims tomorrow from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Eastern time will air on The Fight Network. They will also air weigh-ins at 5 p.m. today. The main card will air on TSN5. 
• Alexander Gustafsson will face Jan Blachowicz on the 9/3 UFC show in Hamburg, Germany in the No. 2 bout on that card underneath the Josh Barnett vs. Andrei Arlovski main event.
• Miesha Tate will be appearing on Conan O’Brien on TBS on Monday night at 11 p.m. Eastern time. This will be Tate’s first major late night television show appearance.
• Michael Bisping was on FS 1 yesterday talking about a fight with Georges St-Pierre. Still no word from St-Pierre if he’s going to come back this year.

​SUMMER EVENTS CALENDAR

• TONIGHT – Wrestlepalooza in Des Moines at 504 East Lucust St. features Colt Cabana vs. Joey Ryan vs. Chuck Taylor in the main event. Scott Hall will also be there.
• TONIGHT – Absolute Intense Wrestling at Mentor-on-the-Lake, OH at Tequila Jaxx with Joey Janela vs. Facade, Shayna Baszler vs. Veda Scott, Laredo Kid, & B.J. Whitmer
• TONIGHT – AAW “Killers Among Us,” Drago vs. Chris Hero, at 115 Bourbon Street (3359 w 115th Street Merrionette Park, IL) Tickets available.
• TOMORROW – Ronin Pro Wrestling is in Pembroke Pines, FL at the Broward College South Campus Gym as Joey Ryan, Candice LaRae and Johnny Gargano.
• TOMORROW – MCW “Base Brawl” at the Regency Furniture Stadium, 11765 St. Linus DR in Waldorf, MD. Tickets here. Ron Simmons, Billy Gunn, and X-Pac will be there.
• TOMORROW – UFC in Ottawa: Rory McDonald vs. Stephen Thompson
• TOMORROW – New England Fights (NEF) returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.” Tickets for “NEF 24” are on sale now.
• SUNDAY – Steel Pro Wrestling runs at the KoC in Hamilton, ON.
• SUNDAY – New Japan Dominion – Tetsuya Naito vs. Kazuchika Okada in an IWGP title match and Kenny Omega vs. Michael Elgin in a ladder match for the IC title
• SUNDAY – WWE Money in the Bank from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas
• June 24 – ROH Best in the World from Concord, NC with Jay Lethal vs. Jay Briscoe for the ROH title
• June 24 – Isao Kobayashi vs. Justin Lawrence will appear on Spike.com at the Bellator Dynamite show in St. Louis. This is a combo MMA & kickboxing show.
• June 24 – Thrash Wrestling “Passion for Smashin” – Schubert Centre 3505 30th Avenue, Vernon, British Columbia V1T 2E6
• June 25 – The United Wrestling Coalition returns to Kelly’s Bar/Banquet Hall in Wrightstown, New Jersey for UWC Fan Appreciation Night!
• June 25 – PWA Night of Champions – Century Casino Showroom – 1010 42 Ave SE Calgary, Alberta
• June 25 – Pure Wrestling Association, Wakas Community Hall, 180 Tsulquate Rd, Port Hardy, BC
• June 25 – Great North Wrestling returns to the Pembroke Memorial Centre, featuring Nicolai Volkoff. Tickets available here.
• June 25 – The UWC returns to Kelly’s Bar/Banquet Hall, 14 Railroad Avenue, Wrightstown, NJ 08562. More information here.
• June 25 – Ultima Lucha tapings in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles at The Temple
• June 26 – Ultima Lucha tapings in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles at The Temple
• 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 7-11 The 10th annual Wrestling Observer/F4W convention in Las Vegas, EdinSanAntonio has information up on Facebook, or email him F4Wfan@hotmail.com
• July 9 – Acclaim Pro Wrestling presents: Star-Mageddon 6!
• July 9 – Smash Wrestling in Fort Erie, ONT at the Native Friendship Center. Chris Hero will headline this fundraising event.
• 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 23 – Chikara Pro announced a doubleheader event at Toronto’s Franklin Horner Community Center.
• July 24 – Fenix vs. Pentagon Jr. headlines for Lucha Libre New York at Club LaBoom in Queens, NY

• Please send feedback to FeedBack@WrestlingObserver.com
• Please send show results and news tips to NewsTips@WrestlingObserver.com
• Please send Wrestling Observer Radio questions to MailBag@WrestlingObserver.com

UFC for Sale

The big news of the day revolves around talk of a UFC sale. We have an updated story on it in the current issue of the Observer. At this point, there is no indication a sale has gone through but the bidding period is coming to a close with two new lead bidders, a joint bid of WME/IMG and the Dalian Wanda Media Group of China which reportedly includes the Kraft Family that owns the New England Patriots, and a group bid of a number of investors from China and Hong Kong. The bids are in the $4 billion range, give or take a little in either direction. More is available here. Bryan and I also talked about this extensively on last night’s Observer radio show.

We’re looking for reports on tonight’s NXT show in Bournemouth, UK at the International Centre as well as tomorrow’s show in Plymouth, UK at the Pavilion which ends the current week’s tour at NewsTips@WrestlingObserver.com.

SMACKDOWN TONIGHT AT 8 P.M. ON SYFY

• Kofi Kingston vs. Big Cass vs. Aiden English vs. Luke Gallows
• Zack Ryder vs. Baron Corbin
• Rusev vs. Kalisto
• Xavier Woods vs. A.J. Styles
• Charlotte vs. Natalya
• Sami Zayn & Cesaro & Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens & Alberto De Rio & Chris Jericho

Going against the Warriors vs. Cavaliers game, which starts at 9 p.m., or against the second hour of Smackdown, tonight’s rating is likely to be very low.

THE ROUND-UP

• WWE inks deal with China’s PPTV, signs Bin Wang to developmental
• Gypsy Joe passes away at 82 years old
• Lucha Underground results: Pentagon Jr & Johnny Mundo thrive in Six to Survive
• ROH to bring Final Battle, future NYC events back to the Hammerstein Ballroom
• TNA Impact re-airing Wednesday due to Tuesday technical issues

The 10th annual Wrestling Observer/F4W convention in Las Vegas takes place during UFC’s International Fight Week from July 7 – 11.EdinSanAntonio has information up on Facebook, or you can email him at F4Wfan@hotmail.com (Apparently Ed has blocked Bryan Alvarez from attendance in response to Bryan blocking Ed on Twitter… LOL) – It’s always a fun time, so hurry up and make your plans to join Dave Meltzer, Bryan Alvarez (yes he’ll be there), Vinny, Granny, and the rest of the group in beautiful Las Vegas this July.

Our “lunch with Granny” is good-to-go at Johnny Rockets (in Excalibur), just like last year, on Saturday July 9th, at 11:30 a.m. local time. We have the “patio area” reserved for us. We’ve also been granted 10% discounts. Just tell the cashier that you’re a part of “Granny’s Gang!” And of course… the star of this event, Ms. Gladys Gibson, just has to show up and be her charming self, and she eats for FREE! See y’all in about three weeks!

​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 6/13/2016: Gawker files for bankruptcy – Depending on your point of view, Hulk Hogan went one step further towards either succeeding or failing in his lawsuit against Gawker Media last Friday when the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, the type that allows the company to continue operating. 

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

READ IT HERE: June 20, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: UFC 199/NXT Takeover reviews, UFC ownership bidding ending soon, more

This week’s Observer has 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’s also a breakdown on the WWE cruiserweight classic, and monthly WWE and TNA business figures.

Take a look 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, all covered in this week’s issue.

WWE looks at the possibility of adding PPV shows and the good and bad of that decision-making, and some economics of that decision. 

A key WWE musician passes away, 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, in this edition.

Take a look at the background of the NXT Takeover show, the debut of Andrade Cien Almas and what did and didn’t work, plus match-by-match coverage with star ratings.

For UFC 199, we look at the state of the middleweight title, how everything lines up, whom Michael Bisping wants next, as well as match-by-match coverage along with pay records for those on the show.

Finally, read how TNA saved its recent TV tapings and PPV, why they were close to not happening, where money came from, and what to look out for in the future. Plus, check out Slammiversary with match-by-match coverage and star ratings.

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

CLICK HERE FOR A FULL 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. 

Check out the latest online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: May 10, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Fans celebrate life of Giant Baba at Tokyo Dome, PRIDE 5 recap, more. The final chapter in the career and life of Shohei Baba took place on the biggest show he ever main evented and the biggest show he ever promoted–some three months after his death.

THURSDAY NEWS UPDATE

We’ll be doing shows both Saturday and Sunday nights, Saturday right after UFC ends and Sunday for Money in the Bank and Dominion.  

There are three major events this weekend, with a UFC show on Saturday which will be split between Fight Pass, FS 2 and FS 1, WWE’s Money in the bank on Sunday, and New Japan’s Dominion, probably its third biggest event of the year, taking place starting at2:30 a.m. Eastern time late Saturday night/early Sunday morning.

WWE stock went up 74 cents per share today to close at $18.55, due to the announcement about getting streaming into China.

Michael Bisping heavily was pushing the idea of a fight with Dan Henderson on UFC Tonight last night, saying it would be his last chance to face him and get revenge before Henderson is likely to retire. Henderson hasn’t wanted to face Bisping again, saying there is no upside to it, but now with the middleweight title in the picture, there is a big upside.

WWE

• Keep in mind that this early this means nothing, but here are the odds for Sunday’s Money in the Bank courtesy of Bovada.lv.

Roman Reigns -375

Seth Rollins +240

A.J. Styles -200

John Cena +150

Kevin Owens -140

Dean Ambrose +250

Chris Jericho +600

Cesaro +900

Sami Zayn +1800

Alberto Del Rio +2500

New Day -160

Gallows & Anderson +200

Enzo & Cass +550

Vaudevillains +1800

Rusev -650

Titus O’Neil +375

UFC

• Cortney Casey vs. Cristina Stanciu in a strawweight fight has been added to the 7/13 show in Sioux Falls, SD.
• Nik Lentz vs. Mairbek Taisumov in a lightweight fight has been added to UFC 203 on 9/10 in Cleveland.
• Several new matches were announced last night for the UFC show on 8/6 in Salt Lake City including:

Tatsuya Kawajiri vs. Cub Swanson

Court McGee vs. Dominque Steele

Zak Cummings vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio

Viktor Pesta vs. Marcin Tybura

Chris Camozzi vs. Thales Leites

MISCELLANEOUS

• Evolve has announced an 8/20 show in Brooklyn at Saint Finbar’s Roman Catholic Church, which will be hours before the NXT show that night at the Barclays Center.   
• Kevin Sullivan appeared in an ROH video with Steve Corino regarding his match with B.J. Whitmer.
• Supreme Lee Great, real name Jon Trosky, a student of Afa and owner of Sanctuary Wrestling out of Hazelton, PA came out as gay in a Facebook post after the shootings in Orlando. He also admitted that he was the person who used the name “Angry Wrestling Vet” on Facebook and Twitter.
• There will be a Shine iPPV tomorrow night from Ybor City, FL at The Orpheum at www.wwn.com and The Fite App with Taylor Made defending the Shine title against Shimmer champion Madison Eagles and TNA champion Allysin Kay (Sienna). The loser of the fall loses their title to the winner of the fall. Also Marti Belle & Jayme Jameson vs. Evie & Shazza McKenzie, Kellie Skater vs. Mia Yim (Jade in TNA) vs. Santana Garrett vs. Nicole Matthews, Su Yung vs. Kay Lee Ray, Rachel Ellering vs. Tessa Blanchard and Kellyanne vs. Chelsea Green.
• World Series of Fighting tomorrow night at 9 p.m. Eastern on NBC Sports Network, meaning it goes head-to-head with Bellator on Spike, with John Howard (23-12) vs. Mike Arrant (15-10), just added. The other main card fights have Blagoy Ivanov defending the heavyweight title against Josh Copeland, Jason High vs. Mike Ricci, Luis Palomino vs. Sheymon Moraes and Phil Hawkes vs. Josh Key.
• Bellator is in Fresno tomorrow at the SaveMart Arena with Marcos Galvao (17-6-1) defending the bantamweight title against Eduardo Dantas (17-4), Thiago Jambo (18-4) vs. Chidi Njokuani (14-4), Brandon Halsey (9-1) vs. John Salter (11-3) and Chris Honeycutt (7-1) vs. Mikkel Parlo (13-2).
• CHIKARA from Saturday night in Philadelphia: Amasis & Ophidian won four-way over Princess Kimber Lee & Heidi Lovelace, Proletariat Boar of Moldova & Parakash Sabar and Arctic Rescue Ant & Pinkie Sanchez, Jigsaw b Oleg the Usurper, Icarus b Missile Assault Man, Jaka b Eddie Kingston-DQ, Hallowicked & Obaryion & Kodama b Fire Ant & Race Jaxon & Hype Rockwell, Mark Angelosetti b Juan Francisco de Coronado in a no DQ match with Dasher Hatfield as referee (thanks to Michael Langan)
• In Your Face Wrestling from Saturday night in Delanson, NY: Eric Emanon & Thomas  Brewington b Spectacular JC & Five Star Jase, Sgt. Fury b Steve Kruz, Bob Evans b Garrett Holiday, Ryan Rogan b Foxx Vinyer, Bob Evans & Chip Stetson b Trip & Lenn Oddity, Marco & Tequila Rose and Alex Cross & Mystify, Elite b Sgt Fury-DQ, Cassius Cutcher & Drake Evans b Ricky Williams & High Voltage Omar, Roman Dominguez & Salvator Morocco and Liam McFeerrin & Lucain Caiker Kongo Kong over Rob Coleman and Nick Westgate, Bobby Ocean b HC Loc
• Thrash Wrestling on 6/24 in Vernon, BC at the Schubert Centre.
• Prairie Wrestling Alliance Night of Champions on 6/25 in Calgary at the Century Casino.
• Acclaim Pro Wrestling on 7/9 in Ottawa at the SPK Dom Polski Polish Combatants Centre.
• Battlear 36 on 7/31 in Montreal at Les Foufounes Electriques.
• Capital City Championship Combat on 6/25 in Ottawa at the Vanier Columbus Club. 
• Old Time Wrestling on Saturday night in Williamstown, NJ at the Monroe Business Park.
• IWF on 6/25, 7/2, 7/26 and 7/23 at the IWF Center in Nutley, NJ.
• AIW on 7/22 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Cleveland.
• Saturday night in Mexicali, Mexico at the Ginmasio Municipal has Dr. Wagner Jr. & Pagano & La Parka vs. The Psycho Circus plus Damian 666 & Bestia 666 & Iron Boy vs. Averno & Chessman & Dinamico.
• Damien Sandow, Johnny Mundo and Ryan Nemeth (the younger brother of Dolph Ziggler) are working together on a comedy show no 7/12 at the Second City Theater in Hollywood, CA.
• Don “The Dragon” Wilson, the actor and former UFC announcer will join King Mo, Benson Henderson, Stitch Duran, Randy Couture and Wanderlei Silva at the Bellator Fan Fest on 6/23 at Dave & Buster’s in Maryland Heights, MO at 8 p.m., the night before the Bellator Dynamite combined MMA and kickboxing show at the Scottrade Center in St. Louis. 
• Bellator has also announced a show on 8/26 in Southaven, MS at the Landers Center.
• Hoosier Pro Wrestling on 7/2 in Columbus, IN at the parking lot of Aaron’s at 2675 N. National Road. It’s a benefit for the local food bank. Admission is free with six cans of food per person. Bring your own lawn chairs. 
• Maryland Championship Wrestling’s Base Brawl on Saturday night in Waldorf, MD at the Regency Furniture Stadium with Billy Gunn & X-Pac vs. Joe Keys & Rob Locke, plus King McBride vs. The Bruiser with Ron Simmons as the guest enforcer.
• National Fighting Championships no 7/22 at Electric Cowboy in Kennesaw, GA and 8/27 in Atlanta at Center Stage.

TODAY IN PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING HISTORY: Assassins win Georgia Tag Titles; Money Inc wins WWF Tag Team Titles

• Please send feedback to FeedBack@WrestlingObserver.com
• Please send show results and news tips to NewsTips@WrestlingObserver.com
• Please send Wrestling Observer Radio questions to MailBag@WrestlingObserver.com