Paypress testing

Tag: headline

  • November 16, 1998 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: More on Ventura winning Governor election, media reaction, tons more

    There has never been a period in American wrestling history where pro wrestling has been the subject of so much mainstream media attention.

    Between the shocking victory of Jesse Ventura in the race for Governor of Minnesota, which resulted in front page coverage in newspapers around the country, and the attention pro wrestling itself is receiving due to the mainstream media discovering its popularity boom, it is virtually impossible to escape almost a total bombardment of pro wrestling articles the likes of which have never been seen before.

    The election of Ventura, a third party candidate from the Ross Perot-formed Reform Party, who had been running third, and up until the final week, a distant third, in the polls, came out on a national basis as the biggest individual election story, almost as much because of a third party political outsider beating the establishment as because of the novelty of Ventura as a former pro wrestler. Most newspapers gave significant coverage to Ventura on 11/5, many printing the New York Times front page story or localized versions of the same. The demand for Ventura skyrocketed, all the way to his appearing over the weekend on “Meet the Press,” where his comments on Bill and Hilary Clinton, in response to Hilary calling his campaign a “sideshow” and his responding that “I think that she maybe ought to not leave the White House as often as she used to

    Bad things seem to happen when she leaves,” springboarded yet another round of front page coverage nationally for Ventura on 11/9. During the show he challenged host Tim Russert to take off his shirt and show off his chest, a challenge Russert didn’t take, but clearly clever methods to get as much media stretch out of his time in the sun as well. CNN did a one hour feature on his life over the weekend, and newspapers across the country and actually around the world were preparing major features on this improbable election result that nobody saw coming. His election inspired the “Today” show to interview Vince McMahon on 11/5 about Ventura, a subject he didn’t seem all that pleased to discuss, probably because Ventura won a much publicized $1 million plus verdict over McMahon in a lawsuit several years ago, although sensing the media tide, both McMahon and Jim Ross changed their tune from days earlier by the time Monday night came around as everyone in wrestling tried to jump on the bandwagon, none more pathetically, however, than Hulk Hogan.

    Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

  • Daily pro wrestling history (12/28): Sting defeats Hogan for WCW World Title

    1876 

    New York City, New York:
    – James Owens defeated James McLaughlin to win the American Collar-and-Elbow Title

    1949 

    Des Moines, Iowa:
    – Leroy McGuirk defeated Billy Goelz for the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Title 

    1959

    Birmingham, Alabama:
    – Mike Clancy defeated Jackie Fargo to win the NWA Southern Junior Heavyweight Title 

    1960

    Mobile, Alabama:
    – Pancho Villa defeated Lee Fields for the NWA Gulf Coast Heavyweight Title 

    1961 

    Toronto, Ontario, Canada:
    – Whipper Billy Watson and Yukon Eric defeated Chris and John Tolos to win the Toronto version of the NWA International Tag Team Titles

    1963

    Teaneck, New Jersey:
    – Chris and John Tolos defeated Killer Kowalski and Gorilla Monsoon for the WWWF United States Tag Team Titles

    Jacksonville, Florida:
    – Bob Orton defeated Eddie Graham to win the NWA Southern Heavyweight Title

    1968

    Chicago, Illinois:
    – The Crusher and Dick the Bruiser won the AWA and WWA World Tag Team Titles by defeating Mitsu Arakawa and Dr. Moto (Tor Kamata) 

    1970

    Vancouver, British Columbia:
    – Gene Kiniski defeated Don Leo Jonathan for the Vancouver version NWA Pacific Coast Heavyweight Title 

    1971 

    Portland, Oregon:
    – Dutch Savage defeated Jonathan Boyd to win the NWA Pacific Northwest Heavyweight Title

    1972

    Greensboro, North Carolina:
    – Rip Hawk defeated Jerry Brisco for the NWA Eastern States Heavyweight Title 

    1973

    Calgary, Alberta, Canada:
    – Archie Gouldie won the Stampede North American Heavyweight Title from Omar Atlas

    Denver, Colorado:
    – One Fall, No Time Limit: AWA Tag Team Champions Nick Bockwinkel & Ray Stevens beat Billy Robinson & Red Bastien 
    – Wahoo McDaniel beat Ivan Koloff 2 out of 3 falls
    – Chris Taylor beat Ric Flair

    1975

    Pensacola, Florida:
    – Bob Sweetan defeated Rip Tyler for the NWA Gulf Coast Heavyweight Title

    1980

    Toronto, Ontario, Canada:
    – Angelo Mosca defeated Hussein Arab (The Iron Sheik) to win the NWA Canadian Heavyweight Title

    Dallas, Texas:
    – Kerry Von Erich (subbing for his injured brother Kevin) defeated Gino Hernandez to win the vacant NWA American Heavyweight Title

    1983

    Denver, Colorado:
    – Baron Von Raschke & Rick Martel & Greg Gagne & Jim Brunzell beat Sheik Adnan & Mr Saito & Jerry Blackwell & Ken Patera 
    – Bunkhouse Match: Blackjack Lanza beat Bobby Heenan 
    – Billy Robinson beat Superstar Billy Graham
    – Brad Rheingans beat Steve Olsonoski 
    – Jesse Ventura beat Buck Zumhofe 

    1984 

    Saginaw, Michigan:
    – Ron Garvin defeated Bob Roop to win the Georgia version of the NWA World Television Title (formerly NWA Georgia/National Television Title)

    Memphis, Tennessee:
    – Terry Taylor defeated Eddie Gilbert to win the CWA International Heavyweight Title 

    1987

    – The Moondogs (Spike and Spot) defeated Tom Brandi and Prince Mike Kaluha for the International Championship Wrestling Tag Team Title

    1992

    Atlanta, Georgia:
    – NWA & WCW World Tag Team Champions Shane Douglas & Ricky Steamboat defeated Barry Windham & Brian Pillman 
    – Sting defeated Big Van Vader to win the King of Cable tournament 
    – WCW World Champion Ron Simmons defeated Steve Williams via DQ
    – NWA World Champion Masahiro Chono defeated The Great Muta

    Memphis, Tennessee:
    – Ron and Don Harris defeated The Moondogs (Spike and Spot) for the USWA Southern Tag Team Title 

    1997

    Washington, DC:
    – Sting defeated Hulk Hogan to win the WCW World Heavyweight Title 
    – Diamond Dallas Page defeated Curt Hennig to win the WCW United States Title 

    1998

    Baltimore, Maryland:
    – Scott Steiner defeated Konnan to capture the WCW World Television Title
    – Ric Flair defeat Eric Bischoff to become WCW President for the next 30 days

  • Daily Update: Vince returning to Raw, CMLL iPPV issues

    We’re looking for reports on tonight’s WWE shows in Hartford, CT (Alberto Del Rio vs. John Cena; Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens) and Chicago at the All-State Arena (Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus for WWE title, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, New Day vs. Usos vs. Lucha Dragon for tag titles) to Dave Meltzer

    Monday will be the live Raw from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn as well as a house show in Allentown.  Raw features both Vince McMahon appearing as well as the return of John Cena, as he faces Alberto Del Rio.

    With the house show in Allentown, those not expected at Raw since they are billed at the house show are Kane & Dudleys & Tommy Dreamer vs. Wyatt Family, Charlotte vs. Paige for the Dias title and Dolph Ziggler vs. Tyler Breeze.

    RIZIN DEBUT SHOW ON LATE MONDAY/EARLY TUESDAY FROM SAITAMA SUPER ARENA (some matches air on U.S. TV on Spike Thursday morning at 10 a.m.)

    Tsuyoshi Kosaka vs. James Thompson

    Carlos Toyota vs. Kiril Sidelnikov

    Yuki Motoya vs. Felipe Efrain

    Hiroyoa vs. Wicky Nishiura under K-1 rules

    Kazuyuki Miyata vs. Hinata with alternate rounds of MMA rules and K-1 rules

    A.J. Matthews (Bellator) vs. Anatoly Tokov

    Hideo Tokoro (Bellator) vs. Kizaemon Saiga

    Hiroyuki Takaya vs. D.J. Taiki

    Valentin Moldavsky vs. Yuta Uchida – heavyweight tournament reserve fight

    King Mo (Bellator) vs. Brett McDermott – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Teodoras Aukstuolis vs. Bruno Cappelozza – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Goran Reljic vs. Vadim Nemkov – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Satoshi Ishii vs. Jiri Prochoazka – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Kazushi Sakuraba vs. Shinya Aoki

    WWE is also running two shows on Tuesday, with the Smackdown tapings in Washington, DC as well as a house show in Providence (John Cena vs. Alberto Del Rio for U.S. title; Rusev vs. Ryback, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, Charlotte vs. Paige for Divas title, Dolph Ziggler vs. Tyler Breeze).

    Wednesday has a WWE show in Toronto at the Ricoh Coliseum (John Cena vs. Alberto Del Rio, Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens) and Baltimore (Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, Brie Bella & Alicia Fox vs. Naomi & Sasha Banks).

    RIZIN FROM THE SAITAMA SUPER ARENA (some matches air on U.S. TV on Spike Thursday morning at 10 a.m.)

    Rena vs. Jlena Valentino – women’s match

    Heavyweight tournament semifinals

    Brennan Ward (Bellator) vs. Ken Hasegawa

    Takeru vs. Yang Ming in K-1 rules

    Soo Chul Kim vs. Maike Linhares

    Gabrielle Garcia vs. Lei’d Tapa – women’s super heavyweight match

    Akebono vs. Bob Sapp – Shoot boxing rules (boxing, kicking, takedowns, no ground work or submissions)

    Andy Souwer vs. Yuichiro Nagashima

    Jerome LeBanner vs. Baruto (sumo star)

    Kron Gracie (Rickson’s son) vs. Asen Yamamoto (age group wrestling champion, son of former women’s world champion Miyu Yamamoto)

    Fedor Emelianenko vs. Jaideep Singh

    Heavyweight tournament finals

    Figure Four Weekly

    Figure Four Weekly (12/21/15): Hulk Hogan and Nelson Frazier Lawsuit Updates
    Transcript gives new insight into the FBI/Gawker dispute, plus WWE gives us a peek at what their termination notices look like in the Nelson Frazier wrongful death lawsuit.

    Wrestling Observer Newsletter

    A look at the Slammy Awards, business of the show, who watched the show, suggestions made for improving the awards show idea, some history of where it came from and what happened at the show including injury updates.

    We also have a story about both the California commission, doctors, and reps from the Association of Boxing Commissions talking about the problem of weight cutting in MMA as well as all the medical issues involved, win/loss records of bigger vs. small fighters, belief of how many fighters go into fights dehydrated, the dangers of fighting dehydrated, new weight class suggestions, the good and the bad of adding weight classes, the discussion of splitting up the heavyweight division and the ONE organization becomes the first promotion to take drastic steps in this subject with a look at their new regulations.

    We also look at the life, career and significance of Lizmark, one of the biggest stars in the history of Lucha Libre, who passed away this past week.  We have his background, how he got into wrestling, his life before wrestling, why he first wore a mask, how he got the name Lizmark, his long run as a constant singles champion or top contender, his induction into the Hall of Fame, his run in the glory days of AAA, Lizmark Jr. and why he fell out of favor in WCW due to loyalty to his father, his biggest rivals, the wrestlers who emulated him and his title history.

    We look at what is next for NXT, the upcoming tour dates, reaction to Roman Reigns internally, Notes on the video game, Mauro Ranallo updates, WWE injury updates, John Cena and Dwayne Johnson news, lots of WWE U.K. date business notes, Japan TV update, Two new wrestlers making main roster debut for one tour in January and why.  We also have notes from all the weekend house shows.

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

    The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: December 28, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: WWE Slammy Awards, MMA Weight cutting

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

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

    Rates are:

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

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

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

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

    Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: November 9, 1998 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Jesse Ventura wins Minnesota Governor election, WCW trailing WWF, more
    Jesse Ventura becomes the Governor of Minnesota, WCW begins trailing WWF, ECW November to Remember recap, plus tons of news.

    TODAY’S DAILY UPDATE

    Bryan and I will be back with Wrestling Observer radio tonight talking the latest wrestling and MMA news as well as taking your e-mail questions to mailbag@wrestlingobserver.com

    As noted yesterday, Vince McMahon will return for a continuation of his angle with Roman Reigns on Raw tomorrow.  I guess they felt with a big football game, they needed Vince back. 

    There was another misfire on Friday night on iPPV, this time being the CMLL show from Arena Mexico.  Based on what we were told, some people who ordered early and used a Chrome brower got in, but nobody else did.  About an hour into the show, CMLL issued a statement saying the problem was the provider’s and not theirs, and gave a YouTube link for the show.  If you ordered the show you’ll get this coming Friday’s second iPPV for half price.  The show has Negro Casas vs. Super Parka in a hair vs. hair match and Kamaitachi vs. Maximo in a hair vs. hair match.  

    The movie Daddy’s Home where John Cena has a cameo is projected at doing $38.8 million in its opening weekend, No. 2 behind Star Wars at $153.5 million.  Sisters, in its second week, which Cena is also in, is at No. 4 at $13.88 million.  Concussion, which debuted Friday, is projected to do $11 million at No. 6. 

    The New York Times end of year obit on Roddy Piper – This is a video of Piper’s babyface turn in Georgia Championship Wrestling.  Some great work here by Piper, Don Muraco, Ole Anderson and Gordon Solie

    From probably 34 years ago, seasons greetings from Gordon Solie and the gang at Georgia Championship Wrestling.  See how many of the wrestlers you can recognize.

    WWE

    • Nikki Bella on Twitter wrote that “End of January I will know my destiny…Till then..All I can do is…stay fearless.  This is in relation to the neck injury she’s been rehabbing of late.  At the end of January she’ll find out if she needs neck surgery for bulging discs in her neck.
    • Stardust, who had been out with a neck injury, returned last night at Madison Square Garden against Titus O’Neil.
    • Chris Jericho, on Twitter, when asked if he would be at WrestleMania this year, wrote, “Sadly no. Big announcement coming.”

    UFC

    MISCELLANEOUS

    • In Philadelphia WMCN-21 will now be airing ROH twice a week, both in the usual Saturday night at 11:30 p.m. time slow as well as a replay at 6 p.m. the next Friday (thanks to Bob Magee)
    • Sami Callihan has been hired as a trainer at the Team Vision Dojo in Orlando, working with Scott Hall and Larry Zbyszko, who both train at the school.  He will be teaching one day and one day per week.  For more info go to info@teamvisiondojo.com
    • A story on former AWA and WWF television producer Al DeRusha, a fixture in the glory days of the AWA and one of the first people behind-the-scenes that Vince raided
    • Latin Thunder talks about spending time with Nick Bockwinkel
    • In yesterday’s history, what was listed as a Red Bastien & Mario Milano IWA world title loss in San Francisco in 1967 was a fictitious match.  The IWA in that era would create fake title losses outside of Australia from time-to-time to give the impression the championships were world championships. (thank to Robert Murillo)
    • Evolve talked about a major announcement regarding Terry Funk, which was hinted at being for their shows in Central Florida over Royal Rumble weekend.
    • There will be a show in Upland, CA on 1/17 at the Grizzly Den featuring The Young Bucks, Doc Gallows & Karl Anderson, Rocky Romero and Amber Gallows.
    • Hoosier Pro Wrestling begins its 18th year of operations oN 1/9 at the 4-H Fairgrounds with TJ Kemp defending the heavyweight title against Rob Conway plus Flash Flanagan vs. Vic the Bruiser.
    • Silas Young is booked for Canadian Wrestling Elite for shows on 2/19 in Fannystelle, Manitoba, 2/20 in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, 2/21 in Edmonton/Sherwood Park; 2/23 in Calgary, 2/24 in Regina and 2/25 in Brandon.  He is now off the 2/26 show in Winnipeg and 2/27 show in Thunder Boy because he’s booked for the ROH PPV and TV taping that weekend in Las Vegas.
    • The IWF has announced shows on 1/2, 1/16 and 1/30 at the IWF Centre, in Nutley, NJ.
    • CMLL on Tuesday night in Guadalajara:  Capitan Cobra & Magica Blanca & Robin b Mr. Apolo & Cholo & Mercenario, Estrellita & Lluvia & Silueta b Dallys & Reyna Isis & Zeuxis, Escandalo & Kamaitachi & Bobby Z b Delta & Esfinge & Rey Cometa, Atlantis & Blue Panther & Volador Jr. b Gran Guerrero & Kraneo & Ripper, Marco Corleone b Ultimo Guerrero (thanks to Kris Zellner)
    • RFVideo.com is having an end of the year sale with up to 40% off selected titles.

    Here is today’s FULL Daily Pro Wrestling History including International history: Daily pro wrestling history (12/27): Kevin Nash, cattle prod & bad booking end Goldberg’s unbeaten streak

  • Wrestle Kingdom 10 Preview Series: IWGP Tag Team Title

    Did you watch Wrestle Kingdom 9? Did you see the IWGP Tag Team Championship match between The Bullet Club and Meiyu Tag? That is, for all intents and purposes, the same match we’re getting at Wrestle Kingdom 10, except Hirooki Goto and Katsuyori Shibata (Meiyu Tag) are being replaced by two balding, ageing men with blonde dye jobs, also known as Togi Makabe and Tomoaki Honma (G.B.H.), near identical backstory and all.

    Firstly, Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson of The Bullet Club are heading into Wrestle Kingdom as long-time champs again. They had held the tag titles for an entire year before losing them to Meiyu Tag at Wrestle Kingdom 9. For reasons I’ll never understand, they won the titles back from Meiyu Tag in little over a month. They later lost them to The Kingdom (Maria and some guys) at Invasion Attack 2015, but regained them at Dominion in Osaka-jo Hall in July, and have held on to them ever since.  

    Another similitude is how the challengers for the belts at Wrestle Kingdom 10 were determined. Meiyu Tag earned their title shot at Wrestle Kingdom 9 by winning the 2014 World Tag League, though they had defeated Gallows and Anderson in a non-title match (and lost a title match) earlier in the year. Surprise! Honma and Makabe also earned their chance at the gold at Wrestle Kingdom 10 by winning the 2015 World Tag league. At least Meiyu Tag had some history with The Bullet Club which gave the match a little extra spice. Honma and Makabe, on the other hand, have both been involved in the Never Openweight Title picture throughout 2015, and only recently reteamed for the World Tag League. So not the most compelling lead up to their January 4th showdown.

    One aspect that provided the Wrestle Kingdom 9 match with some added intrigue, and does the same for Wrestle Kingdom 10, is the undertone of the challengers not being able to win the big one. In 2014, Hirooki Goto challenged for the IWGP Heavyweight, Never Openweight, and IWGP Tag Team Championships, and failed at all. Katsuyori Shibata challenged for the Intercontinental and Tag Team championships, and also failed. While Togi Makabe has had some recent championship success with the Never title in 2015, Honma is the walking, talking (well, kind of) definition of coming up short, and it’s that trait that makes him such a perfect underdog character. Honma’s ability to lose so often but still manipulate the audience into believing he can actually “do it this time” is second to none.

    And thus, the stories of the two matches are nearly identical. Goto and Shibata proved at Wrestle Kingdom 9 that they could get the job done and finally got their mitts on some gold. I’m putting my hypothetical money on Honma and Makabe achieving the same goal at Wrestle Kingdom 10. It will of course be a team effort, but Wrestle Kingdom 10 will be a truly defining, individual moment for Honma as he does what he’s never been able to do in New Japan, win a title. And there’s no better venue than the Tokyo Dome. Or, he’ll lose, as he is wont to do. Either way, the crowd be with him for every twist and turn in the emotional rollercoaster ride that is a Honma match.

    Following the trend of the majority of Wrestle Kingdom 10 matches, the build up has left a lot to be desired, but the match itself ought to be a barn burner with the potential to create an unforgettable Wrestle Kingdom moment. Personally, I’m just hoping Gallows and Anderson lose the titles so that I no longer have to be subjected to Gallows flapping the belt around like it’s an extension of his willy.

  • WWE New York Madison Square Garden results: John Cena vs. Alberto Del Rio

    From Mike Omansky

    • Return date announced:  Friday March 25th, 2016 “Road to Wrestlemania”
    • Presale: at box office after show, or at Ticketmaster.  Code: WWELIVE
    • Crowd into most of the show.  Toss-up for best match of the night – Cena-Del Rio, or Owens Ambrose.
    • Co ring announcers for night: Byron Saxton and Jojo

    1.       NEVILLE W MIZ, red arrow and pin, in a fast-paced opener. **

    2.       RYBACK W RUSEV (with Lana), shell shock and pin * ½.  Lana worked as a heel, back to the pro-Russia/anti-American stuff on the mike.  Good back and forth exchanges.

    3.       CHARLOTTE (with Ric Flair) W PAIGE and BECKY LYNCH in a triple threat to retain the divas title. Finish:  Lynch had Paige in the arm bar, Charlotte leaped into ring from the apron, broke it up, and pinned Paige.  Flair was at ringside the whole time; interfered once – Paige had Charlotte pinned, pulled Charlotte’s legs under the ropes, then pointed it out to the ref. Adequate divas fare. *

    4.       TITUS O’NEIL W STARDUST, crash of the titans and pin. Okay. *

    5.       DEAN AMBROSE W KEVIN OWENS, dirty deeds and pin, in an excellent match.  Bout was non-stop action. Finish: Owens missed two pop up power bomb attempts, hit by dirty deeds on the second.  Crowd very into this match. ***

    6.       R TRUTH W ADAM ROSE, pin.  Merciful finish:  Truth on mat seeming injured; Rose and ref checking on him; Truth leaps up with Little Jimmy and pin.  Bad match.  DUD

    7.       BIG SHOW W MARK HENRY, knockout punch and pin.  Slower motion match, but kept the attention of the crowd most of the way.  Henry with some power moves.  ½*

    8.       DUDLEY BOYZ & TOMMY DREAMER won a “tables match” from LUKE HARPER, ERIC ROWAN & STROHAMN by triple 3D through table on Harper for the win (pins didn’t count).  Good wrestling prior to the finish, but meaningless as pins and submissions didn’t count.  *

    9.       JOHN CENA W ALBERTO DEL RIO, DQ., low blow, letting Alberto retain the U.S. title. This was an excellent match, albeit with limited offense by the returning Cena.

    Del Rio completely dominated the first 10-12 minutes before Cena attempted a comeback and went through much of his repertoire. Del Rio again gained the upper hand, until Cena mounted a second comeback.

    Cena went for the AA; ref was kicked out of the ring, and hence couldn’t count the pin.  Rusev ran in, kicked Cena, put Del Rio on top, and shoved ref back in.  Cena of course kicked out at 2. Rusev again attacked Cena, and Cena again kicked out of a pin.  Cena mounted a final offense, stopped by a Del Rio low blow for the DQ.

    Post match: heels attacked Cena, who ducked a Del Rio chair shot that of course hit Rusev.  Cena cleaned house and his music hit.  Del Rio still U.S. champion.

  • Vince McMahon will appear on WWE RAW Monday

    Not just John Cena, but Vince McMahon will also be on Raw Monday night from the Barclays Center.

    The WWE announced today that McMahon would return to Raw to confront Roman Reigns for giving him the Superman punch two weeks ago.

    McMahon’s return led Raw to a 2.66 rating, up nearly a full-half point from the 2.20 the previous week. It was the biggest rating of the year against football. But the number fell to 2.33 last week, roughly what it had been averaging during football season.

    With a strong Cincinnati Bengals vs. Denver Broncos game, a normal Raw would threaten the recent record low marks.

  • Daily Update: F4W Best of 2015, John Cena return anticipation

    F4W Radio Best of 2015

    Things will be getting back to normal as the holiday season wraps up here. Hope everyone had a great past few days.  Here it is! Dewe’s BEST OF 2015 compilation for subscribers, a look at the 50 greatest audio moments on the website in the past year.  It has been a huge hit in years past.  

    Sunday we will have Wrestling Observer Live, Wrestling Observer Radio, After Dark Radio, the Bryan & Vinny Show looking at NWA/WCW from 30 years ago this week, and more.  You can check out the NEW After Dark Radio Show site right now which has info on how you can participate in Sunday’s show by emailing me your best paranormal stories.

    DRAGON GATE FINAL GATE IPPV ATNiconico.comLATE TOMORROW NIGHT/EARLY SUNDAY MORNING

    Lindaman & Takehiro Yamamura & Kaito Ishida vs. Don Fujii & Yosuke Santa Maria & Nosawa

    Jimmy K-Ness & Jimmy Kanda vs. U-T & Kzy

    Masakatsu Funaki vs. ? in a Colosseum rules ten round match

    Kotoka vs. Eita for the Open the Brave Gate title

    Yamato & Naruki Doi vs. Gamma & Punch Tominaga for Open the Twin Gate tag tiles

    Masato Yoshino & Akira Tozawa & T-Hawk vs. Masaaki Mochizuki & Dragon Kid & Big R Shimizu vs. Naoki Tanizaki & Cyber Kong & Mondai Ryu vs. Ryo Saito & Jimmy Susumu & Genki Horiguchi for the Open the Triangle Gate titles

    Shingo Takagi vs. Cima for the Open the Dream Gate title

    Sunday has WWE shows in Hartford, CT (Alberto Del Rio vs. John Cena; Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens) and Chicago at the All-State Arena (Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus for WWE title, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, New Day vs. Usos vs. Lucha Dragon for tag titles).

    Monday will be the live Raw from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn as well as a house show in Allentown.  With the house show in Allentown, those not expected at Raw since they are billed at the house show are Kane & Dudleys & Tommy Dreamer vs. Wyatt Family, Charlotte vs. Paige for the Divas title and Dolph Ziggler vs. Tyler Breeze.

    RIZIN DEBUT SHOW ON LATE MONDAY/EARLY TUESDAY FROM SAITAMA SUPER ARENA (some matches air on U.S. TV on Spike Thursday morning at 10 a.m.)

    Tsuyoshi Kosaka vs. James Thompson

    Carlos Toyota vs. Kiril Sidelnikov

    Yuki Motoya vs. Felipe Efrain

    Hiroyoa vs. Wicky Nishiura under K-1 rules

    Kazuyuki Miyata vs. Hinata with alternate rounds of MMA rules and K-1 rules

    A.J. Matthews (Bellator) vs. Anatoly Tokov

    Hideo Tokoro (Bellator) vs. Kizaemon Saiga

    Hiroyuki Takaya vs. D.J. Taiki

    Valentin Moldavsky vs. Yuta Uchida – heavyweight tournament reserve fight

    King Mo (Bellator) vs. Brett McDermott – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Teodoras Aukstuolis vs. Bruno Cappelozza – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Goran Reljic vs. Vadim Nemkov – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Satoshi Ishii vs. Jiri Prochoazka – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Kazushi Sakuraba vs. Shinya Aoki

    WWE is also running two shows on Tuesday, with the Smackdown tapings in Washington, DC as well as a house show in Providence (John Cena vs. Alberto Del Rio for U.S. title; Rusev vs. Ryback, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, Charlotte vs. Paige for Divas title, Dolph Ziggler vs. Tyler Breeze).

    Wednesday has a WWE show in Toronto at the Ricoh Coliseum (John Cena vs. Alberto Del Rio, Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens) and Baltimore (Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, Brie Bella & Alicia Fox vs. Naomi & Sasha Banks).

    RIZIN FROM THE SAITAMA SUPER ARENA (some matches air on U.S. TV on Spike Thursday morning at 10 a.m.)

    Rena vs. Jlena Valentino – women’s match

    Heavyweight tournament semifinals

    Brennan Ward (Bellator) vs. Ken Hasegawa

    Takeru vs. Yang Ming in K-1 rules

    Soo Chul Kim vs. Maike Linhares

    Gabrielle Garcia vs. Lei’d Tapa – women’s super heavyweight match

    Akebono vs. Bob Sapp – Shoot boxing rules (boxing, kicking, takedowns, no ground work or submissions)

    Andy Souwer vs. Yuichiro Nagashima

    Jerome LeBanner vs. Baruto (sumo star)

    Kron Gracie (Rickson’s son) vs. Asen Yamamoto (age group wrestling champion, son of former women’s world champion Miyu Yamamoto)

    Fedor Emelianenko vs. Jaideep Singh

    Heavyweight tournament finals

    Figure Four Weekly

    Figure Four Weekly (12/21/15): Hulk Hogan and Nelson Frazier Lawsuit Updates
    Transcript gives new insight into the FBI/Gawker dispute, plus WWE gives us a peek at what their termination notices look like in the Nelson Frazier wrongful death lawsuit.

    Wrestling Observer Newsletter

    A look at the Slammy Awards, business of the show, who watched the show, suggestions made for improving the awards show idea, some history of where it came from and what happened at the show including injury updates.

    We also have a story about both the California commission, doctors, and reps from the Association of Boxing Commissions talking about the problem of weight cutting in MMA as well as all the medical issues involved, win/loss records of bigger vs. small fighters, belief of how many fighters go into fights dehydrated, the dangers of fighting dehydrated, new weight class suggestions, the good and the bad of adding weight classes, the discussion of splitting up the heavyweight division and the ONE organization becomes the first promotion to take drastic steps in this subject with a look at their new regulations.

    We also look at the life, career and significance of Lizmark, one of the biggest stars in the history of Lucha Libre, who passed away this past week.  We have his background, how he got into wrestling, his life before wrestling, why he first wore a mask, how he got the name Lizmark, his long run as a constant singles champion or top contender, his induction into the Hall of Fame, his run in the glory days of AAA, Lizmark Jr. and why he fell out of favor in WCW due to loyalty to his father, his biggest rivals, the wrestlers who emulated him and his title history.

    We look at what is next for NXT, the upcoming tour dates, reaction to Roman Reigns internally, Notes on the video game, Mauro Ranallo updates, WWE injury updates, John Cena and Dwayne Johnson news, lots of WWE U.K. date business notes, Japan TV update, Two new wrestlers making main roster debut for one tour in January and why.  We also have notes from all the weekend house shows.

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

    The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: December 28, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: WWE Slammy Awards, MMA Weight cutting

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

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

    Rates are:

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

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

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

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

    Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: November 9, 1998 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Jesse Ventura wins Minnesota Governor election, WCW trailing WWF, more
    Jesse Ventura becomes the Governor of Minnesota, WCW begins trailing WWF, ECW November to Remember recap, plus tons of news.

    TODAY’S DAILY UPDATE

    As noted on the front page, John Cena returns to Raw Monday and it is the first Raw sellout in the US since SummerSlam weekend.

    Irv Muchnick has his review of the Concussion film up here.  He says it was better than he expected.  I believe Dave will give his review on our next edition of Wrestling Observer Radio.

    6 ways Donald Trump’s wrestling career previewed his campaign

    WWE

    • Thomas Golianopoulus has an article in the New York Times about John Cena and other pro-wrestlers “putting a headlock on Hollywood.”  Cena on his role in “Sisters” with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler: “You’ve got to remember that I’m a recurring character on a weekly episodic television show. Right away I said, ‘Yes,’ because the do-gooder John Cena is not a guy that’s going to sell you heroin.” Golianopoulus’s stuff is always really good, so check this out.
    • Detroit News article on Xavier Woods and his trombone.

    UFC/MMA

    • Dave’s article on the buyrate for Ronda Rousey vs. Holly Holm is up at MMAFighting.com.
    • UFC Free Fight: Carlos Condit vs. Dong Hyun Kim, this fight earned Condit his original welterweight title shot.
    • Joanna Jedrzejczyk and Claudia Gadelha look to be coaches for the next season of The Ultimate Fight. Presumably this would also mean they’d fight for the Strawweight title either on the undercard of UFC 200 or more likely in a headline position at the TUF 23 Finale during international Fight Week.
    • On UFC Tonight, Kenny Florian and Daniel Cormier discussed concerns over CM Punk’s long-delayed UFC debut.

    OTHER PRO WRESTLING

    Here is today’s FULL Daily Pro Wrestling History including International history: Daily pro wrestling history (12/26): Austin Aires wins the ROH World Title

  • Monday’s Raw sold out with John Cena return

    Monday Night’s Raw show at the Barclays Center, featuring the return of John Cena, is now officially sold out.

    The event sold out yesterday, with 13,000 tickets sold.

    Cena vs Albert Del Rio headlines the show.

    There has only been one major arena Raw sellout since the last time the company ran the Barclays Center, on Aug. 24, the day after SummerSlam, which was the 11/9 show from Manchester, England.

    Prior to SummerSlam, the prior legitimate Raw sellout was on April 13 at the O2 Arena in London.  Prior to that it was the March 30 show in San Jose, the day after WrestleMania.  Leading up to WrestleMania, Raw sold out frequently, including four of the five Mondays in March.

  • Daily Update: Poll for McGregor’s next foe, Trish Stratus to get award.

    What used to be one of the biggest days of the year for wrestling is now dark today in the U.S., although there are probably 50 to 100 shows in Mexico today, probably two dozen in the Mexico City metropolitan area alone including an iPPV show.  WWE goes back to a full-time schedule tomorrow.  New Japan will not be airing on AXS today as they are taking some time off.

    Here is today’s FULL Daily Pro Wrestling History including International history: Daily pro wrestling history (12/25): One of the biggest nights in North American wrestling

    CMLL IPPV TONIGHT AT 6 P.M. EASTERN TIME (starting three hours earlier than usual) HERE

    Estrellita & Vaquerita & Lluvia vs. Dallys & Seductora & Tiffany

    Blue Panther & Stuka Jr. & Brazo de Plata vs. Kraneo & Polvora & Vangellys

    Maximo Sexy & Super Parka & Valiente vs. Cavernario & Kamaitachi & Negro Casas

    Ultimo Guerrero & Cibernetico & Volador Jr. vs. Caristico & Mistico & Rush

    Cage of death, last man in the cage loses his mask:  Puma, Triton, Fuego, Super Comando, The Panther, Tiger, Sangre Azteca, Esfinge, Blue Panther Jr., Raziel, Cancerbero and Pegasso

    There is no video on demand of this show.  It can only be viewed live.

    WWE returns to action with what in recent years has been the biggest house show of the year, Christmas week show, this time tomorrow night in Madison Square Garden, with Alberto Del Rio vs. John Cena for the U.S. title, Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens for the IC title).  WWE also runs the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit on Saturday night with Roman Reigns vs Sheamus for the WWE title, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt and New Days vs. Usos vs. Lucha Dragons for tag titles.

    DRAGON GATE FINAL GATE IPPV AT Niconico.comLATE TOMORROW NIGHT/EARLY SUNDAY MORNING

    Lindaman & Takehiro Yamamura & Kaito Ishida vs. Don Fujii & Yosuke Santa Maria & Nosawa

    Jimmy K-Ness & Jimmy Kanda vs. U-T & Kzy

    Masakatsu Funaki vs. ? in a Colosseum rules ten round match

    Kotoka vs. Eita for the Open the Brave Gate title

    Yamato & Naruki Doi vs. Gamma & Punch Tominaga for Open the Twin Gate tag tiles

    Masato Yoshino & Akira Tozawa & T-Hawk vs. Masaaki Mochizuki & Dragon Kid & Big R Shimizu vs. Naoki Tanizaki & Cyber Kong & Mondai Ryu vs. Ryo Saito & Jimmy Susumu & Genki Horiguchi for the Open the Triangle Gate titles

    Shingo Takagi vs. Cima for the Open the Dream Gate title

    Sunday has WWE shows in Hartford, CT (Alberto Del Rio vs. John Cena; Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens) and Chicago at the All-State Arena (Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus for WWE title, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, New Day vs. Usos vs. Lucha Dragon for tag titles).

    Monday will be the live Raw from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn as well as a house show in Allentown.  With the house show in Allentown, those not expected at Raw since they are billed at the house show are Kane & Dudleys & Tommy Dreamer vs. Wyatt Family, Charlotte vs. Paige for the Divas title and Dolph Ziggler vs. Tyler Breeze.

    RIZIN DEBUT SHOW ON LATE MONDAY/EARLY TUESDAY FROM SAITAMA SUPER ARENA (some matches air on U.S. TV on Spike Thursday morning at 10 a.m.)

    Tsuyoshi Kosaka vs. James Thompson

    Carlos Toyota vs. Kiril Sidelnikov

    Yuki Motoya vs. Felipe Efrain

    Hiroyoa vs. Wicky Nishiura under K-1 rules

    Kazuyuki Miyata vs. Hinata with alternate rounds of MMA rules and K-1 rules

    A.J. Matthews (Bellator) vs. Anatoly Tokov

    Hideo Tokoro (Bellator) vs. Kizaemon Saiga

    Hiroyuki Takaya vs. D.J. Taiki

    Valentin Moldavsky vs. Yuta Uchida – heavyweight tournament reserve fight

    King Mo (Bellator) vs. Brett McDermott – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Teodoras Aukstuolis vs. Bruno Cappelozza – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Goran Reljic vs. Vadim Nemkov – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Satoshi Ishii vs. Jiri Prochoazka – first round of heavyweight tournament

    Kazushi Sakuraba vs. Shinya Aoki

    WWE is also running two shows on Tuesday, with the Smackdown tapings in Washington, DC as well as a house show in Providence (John Cena vs. Alberto Del Rio for U.S. title; Rusev vs. Ryback, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, Charlotte vs. Paige for Divas title, Dolph Ziggler vs. Tyler Breeze).

    Wednesday has a WWE show in Toronto at the Ricoh Coliseum (John Cena vs. Alberto Del Rio, Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens) and Baltimore (Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, Brie Bella & Alicia Fox vs. Naomi & Sasha Banks).

    RIZIN FROM THE SAITAMA SUPER ARENA (some matches air on U.S. TV on Spike Thursday morning at 10 a.m.)

    Rena vs. Jlena Valentino – women’s match

    Heavyweight tournament semifinals

    Brennan Ward (Bellator) vs. Ken Hasegawa

    Takeru vs. Yang Ming in K-1 rules

    Soo Chul Kim vs. Maike Linhares

    Gabrielle Garcia vs. Lei’d Tapa – women’s super heavyweight match

    Akebono vs. Bob Sapp – Shoot boxing rules (boxing, kicking, takedowns, no ground work or submissions)

    Andy Souwer vs. Yuichiro Nagashima

    Jerome LeBanner vs. Baruto (sumo star)

    Kron Gracie (Rickson’s son) vs. Asen Yamamoto (age group wrestling champion, son of former women’s world champion Miyu Yamamoto)

    Fedor Emelianenko vs. Jaideep Singh

    Heavyweight tournament finals

    Figure Four Weekly

    Figure Four Weekly (12/21/15): Hulk Hogan and Nelson Frazier Lawsuit Updates
    Transcript gives new insight into the FBI/Gawker dispute, plus WWE gives us a peek at what their termination notices look like in the Nelson Frazier wrongful death lawsuit.

    Wrestling Observer Newsletter

    A look at the Slammy Awards, business of the show, who watched the show, suggestions made for improving the awards show idea, some history of where it came from and what happened at the show including injury updates.

    We also have a story about both the California commission, doctors, and reps from the Association of Boxing Commissions talking about the problem of weight cutting in MMA as well as all the medical issues involved, win/loss records of bigger vs. small fighters, belief of how many fighters go into fights dehydrated, the dangers of fighting dehydrated, new weight class suggestions, the good and the bad of adding weight classes, the discussion of splitting up the heavyweight division and the ONE organization becomes the first promotion to take drastic steps in this subject with a look at their new regulations.

    We also look at the life, career and significance of Lizmark, one of the biggest stars in the history of Lucha Libre, who passed away this past week.  We have his background, how he got into wrestling, his life before wrestling, why he first wore a mask, how he got the name Lizmark, his long run as a constant singles champion or top contender, his induction into the Hall of Fame, his run in the glory days of AAA, Lizmark Jr. and why he fell out of favor in WCW due to loyalty to his father, his biggest rivals, the wrestlers who emulated him and his title history.

    We look at what is next for NXT, the upcoming tour dates, reaction to Roman Reigns internally, Notes on the video game, Mauro Ranallo updates, WWE injury updates, John Cena and Dwayne Johnson news, lots of WWE U.K. date business notes, Japan TV update, Two new wrestlers making main roster debut for one tour in January and why.  We also have notes from all the weekend house shows.

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

    The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: December 28, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: WWE Slammy Awards, MMA Weight cutting

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

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

    Rates are:

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

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

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

    Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

    Check out the latest Online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: November 9, 1998 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Jesse Ventura wins Minnesota Governor election, WCW trailing WWF, more
    Jesse Ventura becomes the Governor of Minnesota, WCW begins trailing WWF, ECW November to Remember recap, plus tons of news.

    TODAY’S DAILY UPDATE

    UFC did a poll on who fans wanted to see against Conor McGregor next.  The results were 39% wanted Jose Aldo, 37% wanted Frankie Edgar and 20% wanted Rafael dos Anjos.   

    The Cauliflower Alley Club announced today that Trish Stratus would be getting the Iron Mike Mazurki award at their banquet this year.  That’s the highest honor they have for a wrestler and it would be the first time a woman has ever been given that ward.  The reunion will take place in April in Las Vegas.  Jerry Lawler will be inducting Lance Russell at the same banquet.

    Ric Flair will be working tomorrow’s Madison Square Garden show, in his daughter’s corner for a match with Paige.

    Congrats to ROH’s Roderick Strong and Marina Shafir of the Four Horsewomen, on their engagement a few days ago.

    An article on the movie “Concussions”.

    Another article talking about the producers taking too much liberty with the truth.  For whatever reason, so many Hollywood movies based on real stories do this, and in more cases than not, it makes the movie worse, not better. 

    WWE

    • Tribute to the Troops did 1,802,000 viewers on Wednesday night. That’s way down from last year, even though the Tuesday Smackdown in WWE week was up from last year.

    MISCELLANEOUS

    • Kurt Angle has a role in an upcoming episode of Duck Dynasty on the A&E Network.
    • Jimmy Valiant will be inducted into the Mid Atlantic Hall of Heroes in August.
    • The trailer for a documentary on the 1976 Muhammad Ali vs. Antonio Inoki match, which is going to be getting a ton of talk next year because it’ll be the 40th anniversary of the bout.  Josh Gross has a book coming out on it and this movie will also be coming out
    • Davey Richards appears for All Star Wrestling on 2/26 in Surrey, BC at the Cloverdale Fairground’s Alice McKay Building.   
    • Patric Laprade on the 30th anniversary of the auto accident that killed Tarzan Tyler, Pierre “Dog Dog” Lefebrve and referee Adrien Desbois with interviews with family members about what is considered the biggest tragedy in the history of Quebec wrestling.
    • Beau James’ blog talk program “Do Ya Wanna Be A Wrestler, Kid?” is back with a special two part episode featuring rare audio from 1974 of Mario Galento speaking openly about Pro Wrestling on Memphis’ WE Radio. Mario pleads his case of why he was blackballed. Who was behind it.  How wrestling has changed in his time. He also takes calls from wrestling fans. Beau also talks about what is coming up with the program and his promotion Southern States Wrestling upcoming Silver Anniversary.   Part 1 and Part 2

    Here is today’s FULL Daily Pro Wrestling History including International history: Daily pro wrestling history (12/25): One of the biggest nights in North American wrestling

  • ROH TV results: Cheeseburger shines in holiday ten-man tag

    A holiday-themed episode of Ring of Honor television from the Nashville Fairgrounds featured a “Christmas surprise” ten-man tag team match. Elsewhere on the show, ANX have a showcase match while Truth Martini displays his holiday cheer and his dastardly side. Also, Prince Nana hands out another envelope.

    Prince Nana joined Kevin Kelly on commentary. Nana himself would actually be involved in the story of the first match. The backstory is for several months Nana has handed out envelopes to both Caprice Coleman and Will Ferrera, but the contents of the envelopes are unknown.

    Before the opening match, Caprice Coleman cut a promo on Ferrera using a play on words talking about getting the mail. He said he and Ferrera had the same mailman. However, Coleman went on to say no matter what mail Ferrera or any other “jive turkeys” receive, his stack of mail is bigger. He cackled and said all of his mail will always come priority.

    Will Ferrera vs. Caprice Coleman ended in a no contest

    After a tense handshake, a slugfest ensued. Kelly noted on commentary how these two technical wrestlers with seemingly no issues between them were brawling. The only connection was the mysterious envelopes and Nana was gleefully watching the violence escalate.

    Ferrera did a tope to the outside, where he grabbed a chair. Coleman rammed Ferrera into the guardrail then dropkicked him into it as well. Caprice executed his “Trinity” which is his trifecta of northern lights suplexes. Ferrera cut him off and slammed him off the top turnbuckle.

    Ferrera brought a chair into the ring as did Coleman. They began dueling with the chairs and the referee called for the bell, throwing out the match and ruling it a no contest. Officials poured into the ring to separate the two.

    Backstage, ROH world champion Jay Lethal was joined by Truth Martini and Taeler Hendrix. Martini wore Santa hat complete with a fake white beard and they all were surrounded by Christmas presents. Lethal was excited to open a present. Martini cautioned him this was serious. Lethal was the team captain of the upcoming Christmas surprise tag team match. Opening one box would reveal a member of Lethal’s team.

    Lethal picked the biggest box because he was confident that signified Moose. He allowed Taeler to open the envelope. She looked disgusted at what it revealed. She would not say who it was so Lethal snatched it away from her. He freaked out when discovering it was Cheeseburger. Lethal threw a tantrum and stormed off.

    After a commercial break, Turth Martini was in the ring with Donovan Dijak and “Outlaw” Ken Phoenix. Truth was cheerful and referenced the holidays. He said he bummed a cigarette from Phoenix earlier in the day. In return, he would consider letting Phoenix join the House of Truth if he impressed Martini in what he described as “the right way.”

    ANX (Kenny King & Rhett Titus) beat Donovan Dijak & Ken Phoenix (with Truth Martini)

    Titus had the early advantage until Dijak low-bridged the top rope and Titus spilled to the outside. Dijack jumped him, allowing his team to start getting heat on Titus. Phoenix was in the ring but refused to tag out even when ordered to do so. This allowed Titus to escape the clutches of the heels and make a hot tag to King.

    King came in running wild and Dijak made the save on a pin attempt. Moments later King did a dive to the outside after Titus made a blind tag. Titus dove off the top rope and Dijack caught him then did a chokeslam into a backbreaker. Phoenix tagged himself back in the match. He and Dijak argued over it, allowing the ANX to do some double team moves and eventually to finish off Phoenix. King pinned him for the win.

    Afterwards, Truth teased giving a thumbs up to Phoenix only to swerve him and give him the thumbs down. So, Dijak executed the “feast your eyes” on Phoenix and left him laying. Prince Nana gave Dijak an envelope and he took it although Martini was unaware.

    Kevin Kelly interviewed Steve Corino. Wearing a neck brace, Corino talked briefly about his surgery and not letting it get him down. He thanked the fans for their support. He then warned BJ Whitmer that one day he will pay for the torment he caused Corino.

    For the Christmas surprise ten-man tag main event, the team captains were ROH world champion Jay Lethal and ROH TV champion Roderick Strong. Everyone got a full entrance as that was part of the surprise revealing of the teammates. Cheeseburger was the only name revealed beforehand except for the respective team captains.

    Veda Scott, Stokely Hathaway, Nick Jackson, Truth Martini, Taeler Hendrix, BJ Whitmer and Colby Corino all appeared as seconds but were all ordered to the back during a commercial break.  

    Roderick Strong & Mark Briscoe & Cedric Alexander & Moose & Matt Jackson beat Jay Lethal & Jay Briscoe & Cliff Compton & Adam Page & Cheeseburger

    This was quite action packed. There was a great series of exchanges by Lethal and Alexander followed by a brawl involving Compton and Mark Briscoe. Mark suggested they take it to the floor so they did. They began to brawl at ringside. When a chair and table became involved, referee Todd Sinclair broke it up and ordered them back into the ring before a commercial.

    After the break, Cheeseburger (the smallest) squared off with Moose (the largest), which didn’t end well for Cheeseburger. Roddy Strong bodyslammed his entire team one-by-one to top of Cheeseburger. Eventually somehow the underdog Cheeseburger made a comeback and countered three consecutive back suplexes to make a hot tag to Jay Briscoe.

    Following some exchanges with Moose where Briscoe gave him a death valley driver, Jay squared off with brother Mark. They had a short but great slugfest. By this point, the crowd started chanting “this is awesome.” Adam Page did a shooting star press off the apron to the floor. Matt Jackson and Moose double-teamed Page then gave him a double superkick before another commercial break.

    When the show returned from break, Moose was giving Page a Liger bomb and Matt did a 450 splash off the top rope. Cheeseburger made the save on the subsequent pin attempt. Cheeseburger was surrounded with five-on-one odds. He smacked Moose and dove under some legs to miraculously escape. Then, Cheeseburger was a house of fire with a flurry of offense. He hit several balm strikes only for Moose to cut him off with a spear.

    Lethal jumped in to hit Moose with the lethal injection. Things got crazy from there with superkicks, a lariat, a sick kick, more kinds of kicks, a brainbuster, a Michinoku Driver and more. Compton climbed to the top turnbuckle but was superkicked and fell through a table at ringside.

    For the finish, Strong did his falling backbreaker and Mark Briscoe jumped off with the froggybow on Page to score the pinfall. Afterwards, the winning team all offered a handshake to Cheeseburger and the announcers put him over.