Tag: daily update

We’re looking for reports from today’s WWE show in Canton, OH (Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens, Alberto Del Rio vs. Kalisto, Tommy Dreamer & Dudleys vs. Wyatt Family) as well as all three NXT shows from the last three nights in Winter Haven, Cocoa Beach and Fort Pierce to Dave Meltzer

UFC FROM THE T.D GARDEN IN BOSTON TODAY

Follow along with F4Wonline.com’s Josh Nason as he provides cageside coverage.

Fight Pass at 6 p.m. Eastern

Francimar Barroso vs. Elvis Mutapcic

Rob Font vs. Joey Gomez

Kyle Bochniak vs. Charles Rosa

Ilir Latifi vs. Sean O’Connell

Daron Cruickshank vs. Paul Felder

FS 1 at 8 p.m.

Maximo Blanco vs. Luke Sanders

Tim Boetsch vs. Ed Herman

Mehdi Baghdad vs. Chris Wade

Patrick Cote vs. Ben Saunders

Ross Pearson vs. Francisco Trinaldo

Travis Browne vs. Matt Mitrione

Eddie Alvarez vs. Anthony Pettis

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

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

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

Ryusuke Taguchi & Fuego vs. Yohei Komatsu & Sho Tanaka

The Panther vs. Okumura

Guerrero Maya Jr. vs. Bobby Z

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

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

Mistico & Kushida vs. Ultimo Guerrero & Gedo

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

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

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

Figure Four Weekly

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

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

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

SUNDAY NEWS UPDATE

Jim Ross gives an in-depth look at his talks with AXS about doing New Japan Pro Wrestling

TNA announced today that Kurt Angle’s last match in the company will be 1/31 in Birmingham, England for a TV taping against Bobby Lashley.

California independent wrestler, Darren Dean (real name Mike Dean) passed away in the last few days.  He had done some ROH shows in the past, worked overseas, and traveled at times with Davey Richards and Tony Kozina.  He was 25.  (thanks to Scott Winter)

According to many, yesterday’s Revolution Pro Wrestling match with Will Ospreay vs. Marty Scurll was a match of the year candidate.  Steve Rice said it was close to **** with great character, work, psychology and a big match feel.  Scurll got the win.  He also said the A.J. Styles vs. Zack Sabre Jr. main event was easily four stars.  Speedball Mike Bailey was also on the show against Big Damo, while Mark Haskins faced Jay Lethal with Lethal retaining the ROH tile.  Bram was also on the show, as was Colt Cabana.

Danny Miller is hospitalized with an undisclosed illness.  Danny is the younger brother of Big Bill Miller, who was a major star in the 50s and 60s and into the early 70s.  He later worked for Championship Wrestling from Florida in the office during its glory years.

The video of Willie Pep done by Lee Wylie that Kenny Florian got suspended by Fox Sports for plagiarizing in his article on tonight’s Dominick Cruz vs. T.J. Dillashaw fight

WWE

• The new season of Total Divas debuts Tuesday night at 9 p.m. on E!  The main storyline is Nikki Bella wondering if she should tell John Cena about how ex-boyfriend Dolph Ziggler is trying to get back together with her, while Paige thinks about whether she should break off her engagement and Brie Bella tries to get Bryan Danielson on a new career path.
• WWE is teasing the idea of a confrontation next weekend with Stephen Amell of Arrow and Stardust, continuing their angle from the summer.  If it happens, it would be at the Heroes and Villains Fan Fest in Secaucus, NJ on 1/23, since the Rumble is the net day.
• After Raw on Monday night will be a John Layfield interview with Brian “Road Dogg” James.

UFC/MMA

• Miesha Tate revealed on Inside MMA on Friday that she was in a minor car accident earlier in the day but it won’t affect the 3/5 fight with Holly Holm.
• It should be noted that the guy who is fighting Mickey Gall on the 2/6 show in Las Vegas named Michael Jackson is Michael “The Truth” Jackson and not Michael “Blackjack” Jackson.  If Gall wins, he faces C.M. Punk in June, or at least that was the target date as of this week.
• An editorial about legalizing MMA in New York
• After last night’s Invicta show, president Shannon Knapp announced the next show would be 3/11 in Las Vegas on Fight Pass.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Mauro Ranallo, broadcasting last night’s boxing heavyweight title fight where Deontay Wilder beat Artur Szpilka at the Barclays Center, got a few Royal Rumble mentions during the broadcast. 
• There was also an angle last night as when Wilder was doing his post-match interview, Tyson Fury hit the ring and started singing and then went nose-to-nose with Wilder.
• Today is the 74th birthday of Muhammad Ali.
• AAW Chaos Theory from Friday night in Merrionette Park, IL:  Drew Gulak b Louis Lyndon, Kongo Kong won three-way over Dan O’Hare and Wheeler Utah, Heidi Lovelace & Kimber Lee b Allysin Kay & Brittany Blake, Hooligans b Zero Gravity to retain the tag title, Sami Callihan b Chris Hero (an incredible match live), Shane Hollister & Mat Fitchett & Markus Crane b Bucky Collinswood & Eddie Machete & Connor Braxton, Ryan Boz b Abyss, AR Fox b Davey Vega to retain the Heritage title, Eddie Kingston b Trevor Lee to retain the AAW title.  Next show is 2/19 at 115 Bourbon Street with Eddie Kingston vs. Sami Callihan for the title and Abyss & Kongo Kong vs. Ryan Boz & Russ Jones in a Monster’s Ball match.
• Crooked Sword Comedy brings Jake Roberts to Waterloo, ONT on 2/19 for a one man show talking about his career at 8 p.m. with a VIP meet and greet at 6 p.m.
• Kenny Omega plays Ultra Street Fighter 4 with 2 other players on Excellent Adventures  (thanks to Michael David)
• Joe Buck has a talk show called Undeniable on Audience TV.  The guest this week was former coach and current TV analyst Jimmy Johnson, who grew up in Port Arthur, TX.  During the show, Johnson talked about growing up as a wrestling fan, saying, that he would wrestle his brother, who would play bad guy as Wild Bull Curry and he’s be the good guy, as Ricki, but he couldn’t remember the last name (most likely Ricki Starr).
• GOUGE from yesterday in Fuquay Varina, NC:  Damien Wayne won Redneck Rumble, No Direction b Leo Ryker & Wallabee Joe, Seymount Snott b Court Montgomery, Mickey Gambino b Waylon Maze, Juan Jeremi b Jimmy Jack Funk Jr. via DQ, Timmy Lou Retton b Damien Wayne via DQ
• AAA from Wednesday night in San Luis Potosi before 3,000 fans:  Aero Fly & Efecto & Vagabundo b Conde Bartock & Mr. Marca & Mini Maniaco, Goya Kong & Pimpinela Escarlata b Taya & Black Mamba, Drago & Electroshock b El Hijo de Pirata Morgan & Joe Lider-DQ, El Hijo de Fantasma & El Texano Jr. & Pentagon Jr. b Psycho Circus, Chessman & Mesias & Taurus b Dr. Wagner Jr. & Fenix & La Parka when Mesias pinned Wagner after ripping off his mask (thanks to Kris Zellner)
• I Believe in Wrestling from last night at the Team Vision Dojo in Orlando:  Los Ben Dejos b Ace Andres & Rex Bacchus, Hercules Gomez b Josh Parker, Braydon Knight b Tyranus-DQ, Lince Dorado b Desmond Xavier, Brandon Scherer won three-way over Chico Adams and Gabriel Black, Mike Reed b Aaron Epic, Santana Garrett b Barbi Hayden via DQ to retain her Stardom title and Japanese tour.  Next show is 1/30 with Giddins vs. Mark Silva and Garrett vs. Hayden no DQ. (thanks to Al Haft)
• Kevin Nash will appear for In Your Face Wrestling on 3/12 in Albany, NY at the Polish Community Center to manage a team as well as do an autograph signing at a pre-event convention with Bob Holly and Scott Norton. 
• NSPW from last night in Quebec City before 407 fans:  Dru Onyx b Brad Alekxis, Alex Price & Dead End b Surfer Mitch &,Joe Kovick & Tony Tremblay, Pee Wee & Judas b 3.0, Heavy Metal Chaos b The Best, Marko Estrada b Matt Angel, Kickin n Stompin b BattleCruisers, Franky the Mobster & Travis Toxic b Giovanni & Michael Style.  Next show is 2/6 with Marko Estrada vs. Davey Richards (thanks to Patric Laprade)      
• Absolute Intense Wrestling on 3/5 at Tequila Jax in Lake, OH with all seats $20 and Little Guido appearing, plus 3/18 in Cleveland at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, headlined by Michael Elgin. 
• Ronin Wrestling on 1/30 at the Broward College South Gym here is a local story on the show. (thanks to Paul Kacprzak)
• Here’s an article from the Salina Journal about a group of former backyard wrestlers that now run indie shows (thanks to Chris Aiken) 

ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY: 1/17 Big Van Vader wins the IWGP TItle

We’re looking for reports on tonight’s NXT house shows in Milwaukee and Winter Haven, FL to Dave Meltzer

SMACKDOWN TONIGHT AT 8 P.M. ON THE USA NETWORK

Dudleys vs Erick Rowan & Luke Harper in a tables match

Zack Ryder & Jack Swagger & Damien Sandow & Goldust vs. Heath Slater & Curtis Axel & Adam Rose & Bo Dallas

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

Becky Lynch vs. Brie Bella

Dean Ambrose & Neville vs. Sheamus & Kevin Owens

The Kalisto vs. Del Rio title match was said to be really good.

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

Figure Four Weekly

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

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

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

THURSDAY NEWS UPDATE

The book “Whatever Happened to Gorgeous George?” on pro wrestling, written in the early 70s by Sports Illustrated’s Joe Jares, is being reprinted by Crowbar Press.  It was the best wrestling book of its era.  For more info

Tim Kennedy has noted that ISIS has been threatening him and the FBI has been investigating it.  He essentially went on social media and challenged them saying, “Let those cowards come.”   Kennedy will also be a guest on Michael Bisping’s Countdown show on Sirius XM Rush Ch. 923 at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. tonight.  I’m guessing Yoel Romero will come up. 

Stephanie McMahon on Twitter talked about how she’s getting into shape for WrestleMania.

Jerry Millen, the Vice President of Rizin, Tweeted today that Fedor Emelianenko would not be fighting on the 4/17 show in Nagoya, but would return later in the year.  

National Wrestling Hall of Fame induction ceremony is being pushed back one week to 7/22 and 7/23 and still in Waterloo, IA of course.  The induction will include myself and Chael Sonnen!

WWE

• Tomorrow’s WWE lineup for New Delhi, India, its first show in India in more than 12 years: Roman Reigns vs. Big Show for WWE title, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt, New Day vs. Usos, Charlotte vs. Summer Rae for the Divas title, Ryback vs. Rusev (who returns on this show), Dolph Ziggler vs. Tyler Breeze, Lovepreet Singh vs. Jason Jordan, Satender Ved Pat vs. Chad Gable  —  Jordan & Gable have been working with the two at the Performance Center for their debuts in their home country which is why they are on the tour.  I believe this is Gable’s main roster debut as well.
• The Hall of Fame pre-sale tickets were a quick sellout yesterday.  The remaining tickets held back go on sale tomorrow morning and will be sold out quickly.
• Ric Flair appears as part of the Days of the Dead festival on 2/5 to 2/7 at the Sheraton in Atlanta.
• WWE stock was up 73 cents per share today, which is a rebound plus after a bad day yesterday, to close to $16.83 per share. 

UFC/MMA

• The Bellator Fan Fest in Houston featuring Kurt Angle, Tito Ortiz, Liam McGeary, Phil Davis and Randy Couture was announced for 2/18 at Dave & Buster’s from 8-11 p.m.  They did one of these in San Jose and it drew a huge crowd.
• There is a last minute change for Sunday’s UFC show in Boston.  Augusto Mendes, who was just announced a few days ago as a replacement to face Charles Rosa, has dropped off the show.  Kyle Bochniak (6-0) is debuting to face Rosa literally three days before the fight.  The main event of this show is  TJ Dillashaw defending his bantamweight title against Dominick Cruz.
• Cris Cyborg, will headline an Invicta show Saturday night, on Fight Pass. 
• Urijah Faber appears in a TV commercial in Sacramento for Bell Brothers, a Sacramento Air Conditioning and plumbing company.
• Paul Fontaine previews the RFA show tomorrow night on AXS which is one of their bigger shows as far as star power
• ONE Championship on 1/29 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia features Ev Ting of Malaysia vs. Eric Kelly of The Philippines in the main event. 

MISCELLANEOUS

• There is a huge nostalgia show on 2/26 in Raleigh at the Dorton Arena, the old home of pro wrestling in that city.  It features two cage matches with the Rock & Roll Express vs. Warlord & Barbarian, who will be managed by Jim Cornette, and Road Warrior Animal with be the gatekeeper.  Also appearing are Lex Luger, Jimmy Valiant and Scott Steiner.  And the second cage match is Matt Hardy defending the TNA title against Ethan Carter III.
• Evolve has a big show on 1/23 in Orlando at the Downtown Rec Complex featuring an autograph signing of Jason Jordan & Chad Gable, an appearance by William Regal plus matches in their tag team tournament which features an amazing lineup with Timothy Thatcher & Zack Sabre Jr., Chris Hero & Tommy End, Trent Baretta & Rocky Romero, Johnny Gargano & Drew Galloway, Caleb Konley & Anthony Nese, Drew Gulak & TJ Perkins, The Bravado Brothers and Team Tremendous.
• A story on longtime wrestling announcer Bob Caudle
• Infinity Pro Wrestling on 1/30 in Bloomington, IN at the National Guard Armory
• Absolute Intense Wrestling on 2/12 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Cleveland features Missy Hyatt, plus Alex Shelley vs. Candice LaRae, Heidi Lovelace vs. Veda Scott and more.
• Smash Wrestling on 2/6 in Oshawa, ONT at the Harmony Creek Community and Events Centre.
• CHIKARA’s first show of the year will be a doubleheader at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on 1/30 Philadelphia at The Wrestle Factory. 
• BANG on 1/23 in Ocala, FL at the new BANG Sound Stage at 2501 SW 57th Ave. #605, featuring Dory Funk Jr. and Johnny Magnum.
• Future Stars of Wrestling tomorrow night in Las Vegas for New Year’s Resolution at the FSW Arena at 7 p.m. with Kevin Kross, Sinn Bohdi, and an appearance by Jake Roberts. 
• There will be a fund raiser for Connor’s Cure on 1/24 at The Lounge Bar in Luton, England at 10:30 p.m. to 4:30 a.m. with a Royal Rumble viewing party.  Rock Bottom Radio is putting this on and they encourage fans to dress like your favorite wrestler.
• GOUGE returns on Saturday night for the Redneck Rumble in Fuquay Varina, NC at 5 p.m. at the Draft Line Brewing Company.  The show is free.
• Jason Kincaid will be headlining CWE shows from 2/19 to 2/25 in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
• IWF Winter Warfare on 1/16 at 7 p.m. at the IWF Centre in Nutley, NJ. 

ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY: Daily pro wrestling history (01/14): Christian Cage wins TNA/NWA World Title

UFC officially announced UFC 197 for March 5th, headlined by featherweight champion Conor McGregor vs. lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos for RDA’s 155-pound title, and Holly Holm defending her women’s bantamweight crown for the first time against Miesha Tate. The event will be at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Don’t forget: our own Tom Lawlor will also be on the show against Corey Anderson.

The NAC reduced Nick Diaz’s suspension from five years to 18 months (served retroactively), and also reduced his fine down from $165,000 to $100,000. He should be cleared to fight again August 1. This all stemmed from Diaz’s third marijuana failure at UFC 183, where he fought Anderson Silva. Those who watched the original hearing may recall that Diaz invoked his fifth amendment right against self-incrimination, which was followed by commissioner Pat Lundvall (a lawyer) arguing with Diaz’s lawyer about. Jeremy Botter, who has the settlement agreement, is reporting that Diaz stipulated that he wrongly invoked his fifth amendment rights even though that’s not actually the case.

Smackdown and Main Event tapings will be Tonight in Lafayette, LA.

We’re looking for your thoughts on last Friday night’s TNA PPV show, so leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to Dave Meltzer

We’re also looking for live reports from Raw tonight in New Orleans. 

We’re also looking for reports from the Lucha Underground tapings this past weekend to Dave Meltzer

If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our new Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today! We have have clips of the post Summer Slam / Super China Buffet show featuring a lengthy Brent Kremen discussion, as well as clips from the X-Mas show. This is a soft launch but we will be releasing much more shortly.

Figure Four Weekly

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

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

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: January 11, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Cena out with shoulder injury, New Japan stars to WWE

In the biggest news week in a long time, we’ve got a double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter this week, covering John Cena’s injury, New Japan stars headed to WWE, a major feature looking at the year that past in pro wrestling and MMA and the year coming up, WWE direction for WrestleMania season, Tokyo Dome coverage, Rizin debut coverage, TNA changes and UFC 195.

Our lead story talks about John Cena’s injury and the injury issues in WWE with more notes on the training program being used. All the news regarding wrestlers leaving New Japan, who’s been contacted, different roles, the various schedules for different guys, other negotiations, what led to these moves, what New Japan needs to learn from this, affects on ROH, and other ideas for New Japan to break out of its standard mentality.

UFC in 2016, the success of the women’s division, UFC business review, big fights on the horizon, the state of WWE in 2015 and 2016, different fan bases, rise of NXT, where New Japan has failed on the international scene, plus AAA, CMLL, Bellator, TNA and ROH prospects in 2016.

Full coverage of New Japan’s Tokyo Dome show, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results, the big angles, Okada’s prospects as the top star, the next big programs on the horizon, big show plans for 2016, the Fanstastica Mania tour lineup and thoughts, New Year’s Dash coverage.

The changes to this year’s Royal Rumble and scout the possibilities and big matches on the horizon for Mania, and the return of Chris Jericho.

WWE Network, John Cena on Peyton Manning and HGH, football coach trying to recruit WWE for Mania, portrayal of Joseph Maroon in the “Concussion”, lots of details on new Dwayne Johnson projects, Lesnar’s schedule, a look at 50/50 booking, Reaction to HHH circumventing his own angle, February NXT, WrestleMania plans, Jericho talks current interview style, WWE looking for new stars around the world, Dusty Rhodes tag team tournament, WWE injury updates, Austin TV show.

A complete look at the debut of the Rizin promotion, details on the ratings and how it compares to WWE & UFC, the Masato vs. Kid Yamamoto show in competition, boxing in competition, Spike TV numbers, Fedor’s return, the freak show fights and what did and didn’t work on the first two shows.

UFC 195, with match-by-match coverage, poll results and business regarding the show, a look at all the close decisions and why they went the way they did.

TNA’s debut on Pop TV, the ratings, the title tournament, who was watching, the PPV show this week, the Mike Bennett debut, the James Storm return, the departure of Taryn Terrell and the good and bad of the latest relaunch.

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

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

TUESDAY’S NEWS UPDATE

WWE

• Paige told Scott Fishman in Channel Guide Magazine that she’s currently out of action with “a slight concussion.”
• If you’re heading to Smackdown tonight, here are some additional security measures of which to be aware.
• Mauro Ranallo did an interview with Fox Sports about his dream coming true of working for WWE. (Thanks to Lee Wall)
• Jim Ross talked to SI’s The Cauldron about life after wrestling. His 100th podcast drops tonight on Podcast One featuring “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.
• The BBC did a feature on current NXT talent Hugo Knox. (Thanks to Lee Wall)
• The Hindu Business Line did a feature on Joji George being appointed VP of WWE India. (Thanks to Mike K.)
• A few columns to check out on our site in case you missed them:
  Will Cooling’s suggestion that Brock Lesnar vs. Nakamura is the match to make for Wrestlemania and questioning if WWE can grow their own stars anymore
  Kyle Johnson wants WWE to stop telling fans that their stars aren’t important

UFC/MMA

• A new gameplay trailer was released today for EA Sports UFC 2. This one focuses on the new physics-based hit reactions and knockouts, the new, non-turn based grappling and clinch system, and the new defensive system which includes 360 degree had movement (like Fight Night Champion) and independent high/low blocks with no weak “autoblock” that protects the whole body. The game comes out on March 15th and is available for pre-order now.
• Speaking of EA Sports UFC 2, CM Punk has been given an overall fighter rating of 85. If you compare him to the fighters in the first game, he’s above Pat Parry (84), has the same rating as Martin Kampmann and Francis Carmont, and is just below Mark Hunt’s 86. Punk responded on Twitter to some of the negative comments about him getting such a high rating despite never having competed in the sport: “Not since Samus Aran was revealed to be a woman have dummies been this butt hurt about a video game.” Samus was the player character in Nintendo’s 1986 game Metroid.
• Stipe Miocic is pissed that Alistair Overeem might get the next UFC heavyweight title shot and that his yelling at Dana White after his beatdown of Andrei Arlovski was personal.
• Our site’s own “Filthy” Tom Lawlor announced his return date here. Spoiler alert: It’s for UFC 197, which should have a monster main event on top. Congrats to Mr. Lawlor.
• Duane Ludwig thinks Dominick Cruz’s propensity for trash talk makes him something other than a martial artist.
• WSOF announced today that Mike Ricci is out of WSOF 27, which airs a week from Saturday on NBC Sports Network. Luiz Furmino will be the replacement in the main event against Caros Fodor. This is the sixth fight that Ricci has been scheduled to fight in since August of 2014 that has been cancelled for one reason or another.
• Ryan Couture will replace the injured Derek Anderson at Bellator 148 against Patricky “Pitbull” Friere. This is a big step up in competition for Couture who is 10-3 overall and 2-0 in Bellator.
• ICYMI, Josh Nason and Paul Fontaine continued their look at the year that was 2015 in MMA, checking in with July-September on the newest Josh Nason’s Punch-Out. (sub only). The final installment goes up tonight.

MISC

• On the latest edition of Between the Sheets, (Not That) Tom Green joins Kris Zellner and David Bixenspan to talk January 5-11, 1994. Topics include bar brawls, John Nord’s career trajectory, Antonio Pena’s Japanese business tour, ECW “crossing the line,” Jerry Lawler’s legal problems, Bret & Owen Hart vs. The Steiner Brothers, Tom breaking the show, and much more.
• The latest episode of the Fire Pro Podcast reviews WrestleKingdom 10, the latest TNA relaunch, and the big news of last week here.
• Friday Jan 15th, Future Stars of Wrestling presents New Years Resolution, 7pm at the FSW Arena, featuring FSW Heavyweight Champion Kevin Kross, former WWE Superstar Sinn Bodhi, and WWE Hall of Famer, the Legendary Jake The Snake Roberts.  For more info, go to futurestarsofwrestling.com
• FSW is also hosting a seminar the WWE Legend Jake The Snake Roberts this Thursday, Jan 14th.  Cost is $30 for FSW Students and $35 for Non-FSW students.  Learn from one of the greatest minds in professional wrestling.

ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY:The Outsiders beat the Steiners for WCW Tag Championship

We’re looking for your thoughts on Friday night’s TNA PPV show, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to Dave Meltzer

We’re also looking for live reports from Raw tonight in New Orleans.  Nothing has been announced for the show past the return of Brock Lesnar.

We’re also looking for reports from the Lucha Underground tapings this past weekend to Dave Meltzer

Smackdown and Main Event tapings will be Tuesday in Lafayette, LA.

If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our new Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today! We have have clips of the post Summer Slam / Super China Buffet show featuring a lengthy Brent Kremen discussion, as well as clips from the X-Mas show. This is a soft launch but we will be releasing much more shortly.

Figure Four Weekly

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

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

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: January 11, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Cena out with shoulder injury, New Japan stars to WWE

In the biggest news week in a long time, we’ve got a double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter this week, covering John Cena’s injury, New Japan stars headed to WWE, a major feature looking at the year that past in pro wrestling and MMA and the year coming up, WWE direction for WrestleMania season, Tokyo Dome coverage, Rizin debut coverage, TNA changes and UFC 195.

Our lead story talks about John Cena’s injury and the injury issues in WWE with more notes on the training program being used. All the news regarding wrestlers leaving New Japan, who’s been contacted, different roles, the various schedules for different guys, other negotiations, what led to these moves, what New Japan needs to learn from this, affects on ROH, and other ideas for New Japan to break out of its standard mentality.

UFC in 2016, the success of the women’s division, UFC business review, big fights on the horizon, the state of WWE in 2015 and 2016, different fan bases, rise of NXT, where New Japan has failed on the international scene, plus AAA, CMLL, Bellator, TNA and ROH prospects in 2016.

Full coverage of New Japan’s Tokyo Dome show, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results, the big angles, Okada’s prospects as the top star, the next big programs on the horizon, big show plans for 2016, the Fanstastica Mania tour lineup and thoughts, New Year’s Dash coverage.

The changes to this year’s Royal Rumble and scout the possibilities and big matches on the horizon for Mania, and the return of Chris Jericho.

WWE Network, John Cena on Peyton Manning and HGH, football coach trying to recruit WWE for Mania, portrayal of Joseph Maroon in the “Concussion”, lots of details on new Dwayne Johnson projects, Lesnar’s schedule, a look at 50/50 booking, Reaction to HHH circumventing his own angle, February NXT, WrestleMania plans, Jericho talks current interview style, WWE looking for new stars around the world, Dusty Rhodes tag team tournament, WWE injury updates, Austin TV show.

A complete look at the debut of the Rizin promotion, details on the ratings and how it compares to WWE & UFC, the Masato vs. Kid Yamamoto show in competition, boxing in competition, Spike TV numbers, Fedor’s return, the freak show fights and what did and didn’t work on the first two shows.

UFC 195, with match-by-match coverage, poll results and business regarding the show, a look at all the close decisions and why they went the way they did.

TNA’s debut on Pop TV, the ratings, the title tournament, who was watching, the PPV show this week, the Mike Bennett debut, the James Storm return, the departure of Taryn Terrell and the good and bad of the latest relaunch.

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

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

MONDAY’S NEWS UPDATE

Congratulations to Sting for his being the lead inductee in the WWE Hall of Fame class for 2016.  

Bloody Elbow has a storyabout Royce Gracie being investigated by the IRS for having over $3 million wired from foreign banks to U.S. banks for various purposes including purchases of real estate.  The investigation also stated Royce Gracie filed tax returns from 2008 to 2011 showing minimal taxable income.  His family filed an earned income credit, which goes to low income working families, which was suspicious since he is a celebrity in MMA and his wife is a doctor.  The government is seeking $1.1 million in back taxes. 

Tonight’s college football game is expected to be considerably down in the ratings from last year.  Still, given the game will outdraw every NFL game this season, Raw could be near record lows.  There is only one Raw after tonight before the Royal Rumble, so we should have all the key matches announced.  Really, we should have had most of them last week.

The Sports Business Daily had a report that the NFL is looking at splitting up its Thursday night package and selling it to two or three different networks next season and that the league may expand to 17 Thursday night games, which would greatly affect fall Smackdown ratings.

Tammy Sytch plea bargained to a guilty plea on three DUI charges stemming from a June 1 arrest and is scheduled for a 1/29 sentencing.

WWE

• Jason Jordan & Chad Gable are backstage at Raw, although I’d expect if they were to wrestle it would be for a dark match.
• The Stone Cold Podcast with Ric Flair (which was taped some time back) airs after Raw tonight.
• Daddy’s Home, with John Cena in a cameo, was No. 3 at the U.S. box office this past week with $15,015,465 in its third week out, and has topped $116 million domestic.  Sisters, where he had a bigger role, was No. 5, at $7,189,455 and has done just under $75 million in four weeks out.  In Australia, Sisters was No. 3 this weekend, Daddy’s Home was No. 4 and Spectre (Bautista) was No. 11) (thanks to James Stanios)
• Dwayne Johnson was a presenter last night for the Best Supporting Actress award at last night’s Golden Globes.
• Local promoters Evenko announced a 3/11 house show in Montreal, with tickets going on sale at Noon on Saturday, which will feature Brock Lesnar in his first match in Montreal since 2003.  What’s notable is that is the day before the WWE Network special in Toronto.  Lesnar has not been announced for Toronto but it wouldn’t make sense for Lesnar to work a Montreal house show but not a Toronto network special.  The names listed, the rest of which should almost surely be on the Toronto special, are Roman Reigns, Dean Ambrose, Alberto Del Rio and Kevin Owens.  (thanks to Pat Laprade)
• WWE stock was up 13 cents per share today to $16.43.
• Gabe Sapolsky reported that William Regal would be coming to the Evolve show on 1/23 in Orlando “with a purpose.”
• The Wall Street Journal today had a small ad in the weekend edition looking for people who have archival items related to Gorgeous George, particularly photos or home movies for a documentary.  The e-mail address to contact is gorgeousgeo32415@gmail.com (thanks to Robert Steinberg)

UFC/MMA

• UFC had wanted to announce the Conor McGregor vs. Rafael dos Anjos and Holly Holm vs. Miesha Tate during halftime of the Packers-Redskins game, which drew 38.8 million (the most watched television show of any kind since last year’s Super Bowl).  But apparently the deal wasn’t closed in time, although all indications is the story that it was McGregor’s side that held it up are incorrect and McGregor’s deal is set.
• Ticketmaster has just put up the page for UFC 197 listing it as 3/5 in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.  The belief is that the hold-up, coming to terms with Rafael dos Anjos, has been worked out.  Tickets are listed as going on sale on 1/20.
• There are two changes in Sunday’s card in Boston.  Jimy Hettes is out of his featherweight fight with Charles Rosa, and taking the fight with no camp at all is Augusto Mendes (5-0), making his UFC debut.  Also out of Sunday’s show is Abdul-Kerim Edlov, a light heavyweight, who was to face Francimar Barroso.  He’s being replaced by Elvis Mutapcic (15-3), also making his UFC debut.  Mutapcic has been fighting for World Series of Fighting.
• A note on Sunday’s show is that it will start at the usual 8 p.m. with prelims, but it’s only scheduled for four plus hours of television instead of five plus, so the main event should start around 11:40 p.m. instead of the usual 12:40 a.m. main event start on FS 1 shows.  To make up the difference, the show itself starts one hour earlier and there will be five Fight Pass bouts.
• Here’s a story on Conor McGregor pay.  While he will get an enormous payday, I think the predictions of 1.5 million buys on 3/5 sound high.
• A story on the debut of Joey Gomez, who served overseas in the military, on Sunday’s show
• World Series of Fighting announced Justin Gaethje, the company’s top star, will defend his lightweight title against tournament winner Brian Foster on 3/12 in Loveland, CO.  The show airs live on NBC Sports Network.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Paragon Pro Wrestling announced it would air on 1/16 on the MSG Network in a Saturday at 5 a.m. Eastern time slot.  PPW was formerly on Pop TV until Pop made its deal with TNA..
• John Rocker of the Atlanta Braves, who has done some indie work in Georgia, was at the WrestleMerica TV tapings on Friday night in Barnesville, GA that A.J. Styles and Doc Gallows headlined.  Their next show is 2/20 called Night of Legends, headlined by the Rock & Roll Express.
• Michael “Venom” Page, one of the guys Scott Coker has been trying to build in Bellator, who has a 9-0 record, will be in he semifinal on a 3/4 show in Thackerville, OK, where he faces Fernando Gonzalez (24-13).  The show is headlined by wrestling standouts Joe Warren vs. Darion Caldwell.
• In a note regarding the update yesterday on Lucha Extreme not airing because KAIL TV moved its base.  It is true that KAIL did move its base but nobody knows why that would affect a taped wrestling show unless tapes were lost in the move.   
• Maryland Championship Wrestling on 1/23 in  Joppa, MD with the Hardys, with King McBride vs. Matt Hardy, who will have Jeff in his corner.  Not sure how that works out with Matt’s heel turn on TNA and feud with Jeff and when it airs.
• Rock Solids Wrestling Brawl in the Falls on 2/13 in Dowling, ONT with Cody Deaner as the headliner at the Dowling Leisure Centre.   
• AAW on 1/15 in Merrionette Park, IL at 115 Bourbon Street with Eddie Kingston vs Trevor Lee for the AAW title, Davey Vega vs. AR Fox for the AAW Heritage title, Sami Callihan vs. Chris Hero, Abyss vs. Rya Boz, Devin & Mason Cutter vs. Zero Gravity, Louis Lyndon vs. Drew Gulak plus Kongo Kong, Shane Hollister, Heidi Lovelace, Allysin Kay and more.
• Smash vs. CZW takes place on Saturday night in Toronto at the Franklin Horner Community Centre with Sami Callihan (CZW) vs. Johnny Gargano (Smash), BLK Jeez & Pepper Parks & Mike Rollins (CZW) vs. Super Smash Brothers & Brent Banks (Smash), D.J. Hyde (CZW) vs. Scotty O’Shea (Smash), Jonathan Gresham (CZW) vs. Tyson Dux (Smash), Drew Gulak (CZW) vs. Tarik (Smash) and more.
• CZW’s 17th anniversary show is 2/13 in Voorhees, NJ at Flyers Skate Zone with Matt Tremont vs. Devon Moore in a ladder match for the CZW title and Pepper Parks & BLK Jeez defending the tag team titles against Dan Barry & Bill Carr, Lio Rush vs. Joey Janela and Speedball Mike Bailey vs. Sami Callihan. 
• XICW on Saturday night in Clinton Township, MI:  Kyle Maverick b Jacob Mercury, Zach Gowen won over Gavin Quinn, Idris Abraham and Willie Watts, Joe Coleman b Jay Maynard, Joe Coleman won over Palmer Cruise and Xavier Walker, Little Guido & The Scarbonis b Jaimy Coxxx & Jeff Brooks & Dickie Bronson, Haki Zane b Kongo Kong-COR, Rhino b Bob Holly, DBA & Malcolm Monroe III b Dave Crist & Zachary Wents, Jake Something b Orlando Christopher (thanks to Leonard Brand)
• Nova Pro Wrestling on 1/31 in Springfield, VA at the Annandale Sports Center featuring Sonjay Dutt and the Bravado Brothers.
• Premier Championship Wrestling from the weekend in  Winnipeg:  Shao Ming b Jacob Creed, Jay Walker b Adrian Barton, Chad Tatum b Michael Clark, Scott Justice b Alix Vanna, Mentallo b Antonio Scorpio, Jackie Lee b Alexander Prime.  Next show is 2/27 (thanks to Andrew Shallcross)

ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY:Daily pro wrestling history (01/11): Midnight Express win World Class American Tag Team Titles

“The Notorious” Conor McGregor vs. Floyd “Money” Mayweather Jr. would be, in many ways, the greatest fight of all time. However unlikely to happen, there’s been at least some trash talk brewing recently. McGregor was mad that Mayweather tried to claim it was racial why McGregor and Ronda Rousey were stars, where he noted that Laila Ali was beautiful but was never the star Rousey was and that fans hate him for trash talking but like McGregor.  McGregor said the Irish have been oppressed for there entire existence and there was once a time where just having the name McGregor “was punishable by death.”  He then said he’d be willing to fight Mayweather on an 80/20 split, noting he’d get the 80, because Mayweather’s last PPV bombed so badly.

The official announcement of UFC 197 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on 3/5 with Conor McGregor vs. Rafael dos Anjos for the lightweight title and Holly Holm vs. Miesha Tate for the womens’ bantamweight title is expected imminently. 

Three of the top matches for the next ROH PPV on 2/26 in Las Vegas at Sam’s Town are Jay Lethal vs. Adam Cole vs. Kyle O’Reilly for the ROH title, Hiroshi Tanahashi & Michael Elgin vs. Mark & Jay Briscoe, and Kazuchika Okada vs Moose.  That main event sounds excellent, as does the tag match. It’s also a huge step up for Moose to get a chance to work with Okada in a singles. This is a big time for ROH as they begin the build to the Wrestlemania weekend, and Supercard of Honor X in Dallas. 

We’re looking for your thoughts on Friday night’s TNA PPV show, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to Dave Meltzer

We’re also looking for reports on the Lucha Underground tapings yesterday and today in Los Angeles, as well as today’s WWE shows in Mobile, AL (Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus for WWE title; New Day vs. Dudleys & Tommy Dreamer; Kane vs. Bray Wyatt) and Monroe, LA (Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens for IC title, Chris Jericho vs. Alberto Del Rio, Ryback vs. Rusev).

Raw is live Monday from New Orleans.  Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman return on the show.

Smackdown and Main Event tapings will be Tuesday in Lafayette, LA.

If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our new Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today! We have have clips of the post Summer Slam / Super China Buffet show featuring a lengthy Brent Kremen discussion, as well as clips from the X-Mas show. This is a soft launch but we will be releasing much more shortly.

Figure Four Weekly

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

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

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: January 11, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Cena out with shoulder injury, New Japan stars to WWE

In the biggest news week in a long time, we’ve got a double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter this week, covering John Cena’s injury, New Japan stars headed to WWE, a major feature looking at the year that past in pro wrestling and MMA and the year coming up, WWE direction for WrestleMania season, Tokyo Dome coverage, Rizin debut coverage, TNA changes and UFC 195.

Our lead story talks about John Cena’s injury and the injury issues in WWE with more notes on the training program being used. All the news regarding wrestlers leaving New Japan, who’s been contacted, different roles, the various schedules for different guys, other negotiations, what led to these moves, what New Japan needs to learn from this, affects on ROH, and other ideas for New Japan to break out of its standard mentality.

UFC in 2016, the success of the women’s division, UFC business review, big fights on the horizon, the state of WWE in 2015 and 2016, different fan bases, rise of NXT, where New Japan has failed on the international scene, plus AAA, CMLL, Bellator, TNA and ROH prospects in 2016.

Full coverage of New Japan’s Tokyo Dome show, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results, the big angles, Okada’s prospects as the top star, the next big programs on the horizon, big show plans for 2016, the Fanstastica Mania tour lineup and thoughts, New Year’s Dash coverage.

The changes to this year’s Royal Rumble and scout the possibilities and big matches on the horizon for Mania, and the return of Chris Jericho.

WWE Network, John Cena on Peyton Manning and HGH, football coach trying to recruit WWE for Mania, portrayal of Joseph Maroon in the “Concussion”, lots of details on new Dwayne Johnson projects, Lesnar’s schedule, a look at 50/50 booking, Reaction to HHH circumventing his own angle, February NXT, WrestleMania plans, Jericho talks current interview style, WWE looking for new stars around the world, Dusty Rhodes tag team tournament, WWE injury updates, Austin TV show.

A complete look at the debut of the Rizin promotion, details on the ratings and how it compares to WWE & UFC, the Masato vs. Kid Yamamoto show in competition, boxing in competition, Spike TV numbers, Fedor’s return, the freak show fights and what did and didn’t work on the first two shows.

UFC 195, with match-by-match coverage, poll results and business regarding the show, a look at all the close decisions and why they went the way they did.

TNA’s debut on Pop TV, the ratings, the title tournament, who was watching, the PPV show this week, the Mike Bennett debut, the James Storm return, the departure of Taryn Terrell and the good and bad of the latest relaunch.

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

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

SUNDAY’S NEWS UPDATE

Sad to report on the death of Wolfman Willie Farkas, a 60s, 70s and 80s wrestler who worked a lot in the Toronto area and had a run as a mid-carder in 1970 and 1971 in the WWWF.  He was one of those characters from the old days of wrestling.  Greg Oliver has a story.

TNA is doing a poll at impactwrestling.com for fans to vote for one of three people to be added to the U.K. tour at the end of the month.  The choices are Will Ospreay (who is fantastic), Jimmy Havoc and Big Damo.  Really they could add all three and it would be a good move.

Karl Stern has launched a new Facebook page for the DragonKing Dark show at AfterDarkRadioshow.com and Facebook.com/DragonKingRadio

WWE

• HHH was quoted in Sky News today while appearing at the funeral of Lemmy of Motorhead:  “I remember going to him one time after getting beaten again and walking up to him to shake his hand.  I gave him a hug and he looked right at me and he goes…`man, you suck, you can’t win a match to save your life.’  I probably looked at him, stunned, and he grabbed me by the back of my neck and he said, `That’s why you’re perfect for Motorhead.’” (thanks to  Dean Ayass)
• Kevin Owens did an interview throwing his hat into the ring so to speak for a match with Undertaker at WrestleMania with Title Match Wrestling.
• Results from last night’s WWE show in Montgomery, AL:  Luke Harper & Erick Rowan & Braun Strowman b Dudleys & Tommy Dreamer, Neville b Bo Dallas, Jack Swagger b Bo Dallas, Fandango & Goldust b The Ascension, Kane b Bray Wyatt (Wyatt Family and Dreamer & Dudleys were all involved), Charlotte b Becky Lynch to retain the Divas title, Big E & Xavier Woods b Usos to retain the tag titles, Roman Reigns b Sheamus to retain the WWE title
• A Road to WrestleMania house show on 3/19 at the Westchester County Center in White Plains, NY was advertised with Big Show, Bray Wyatt, Dudleys, Demon Kane, Alberto De Rio, The Wyatt Family, Kalisto and more (thanks to Mike Omansky)

UFC

• UFC Ultimate Insider at 6:30 p.m. Eastern tonight on FS 1 has TJ Dillashaw in his move to Colorado and Anthony Johnson is mic’d up for Ryan Bader’s last fight.  FS 1 also has Thomas Almeida vs. Brad Pickett and Dominick Cruz vs. Urijah Faber in taped matches at 10 p.m. tonight.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Bad Luck Fale has confirmed on Facebook that he’s staying with New Japan.
• The New York Times has a great story on the brain injuries in a 2013 boxing match in Madison Square Garden.
• Preview of a Sami Callihan shoot interview here.
• NWA Parade of Champions on 3/31 in Fort Worth over WrestleMania weekend at the Ridglea Theater.  Jim Cornette will host the event and do a live podcast that afternoon.  Also scheduled are Jax Dane, Charlie Haas, Ray Rowe, Rodney Mack, Marc Lowrance, Mike McGuirk, Chase Owns, Jason Kincad, Matt Riviera, Rob Conway and NWA President Bruce Tharpe.  Tickets go on sale 2/13 at NWARingside.com
• Fenix, Dragon and Pentagon Jr. are booked on 3/13 in Atlanta.
• Bas Rutten became a grandfather recently.  Congratulations to him.
• Davey Richards, who announced he is taking no more indie bookings after 5/1, will be at the 20th annual ECWA Super 8 tournament on 4/23 in Woodbury Heights, NJ.  Appearing with him in the tournament will be Jason Kincaid, Papadon, John Skyler and four more.  Richards won that tournament in 2006.
• Freelance Wrestling from Friday night in Chicago before 300 fans:  Maxwell Chicago won over Harvey Bower, Brad Kevins, Brent Banks, Kobe Durst and Ethan Case, Matt Knicks & Chris Castro b Yabo & Ruffo the Clowns, GPA b Chase Owens, Robert Anthony b Silas Young, Stevie Fierce & Rob Matter b Bryce Benjamin & Acid Jazz, Craig Mitchell b Suge D, Isaias Velazquez b Mustafa Ali. (thanks to Lance LeVine)
• In Your Face has its fifth annual Memories, Moments and Mayhem convention and wrestling show on 3/12 in Albany, NY at the Polish Community Center.  Bob Holly, Scott Norton and Cody Deaner are announced for the show.  The convention runs from 2-6 p.m. and the wrestling show is at 7 p.m.
• Superkick’d on Friday night in Toronto:  Michael San Francisci & Marc Hauss b Holden Albright & Maximo  Suave, Tyson Dux b Anton Aleviev, Jake Something b Dylan Bostic, Phil Atlas won over Mano del Diablo, RJ City and EZE Eric Cairnie, Mike Rollins b Stratos Fear in a tables match, Space Monkey b Young Myles, Alessandro del Bruno & Scotty O’Shea b Ashley Sixx & Orlando Christopher-DQ, Shane Sabre b Kris Chambers-DQ.  Next show is 2/5 at the Lithuanian Center in Toronto with a ladder match (thanks to Steve Ashe)
• Missy Hyatt headlines as a guest for Absolute Intense Wrestling on 2/12 in Cleveland at Our Lady of Mount Carmel. 
• NWA Smoky Mountain Wrestling on 1/16 in Kingsport, TN at the Civic Auditorium with The Heatseekers vs. Jeff Connelly & Bryan Montgomery.
• Baja Stars Wrestling on 2/20 in San Diego at the Montgonmery-Waller Rec Center has Extreme Tiger (Tigre Uno) & El Hijo de Rey Misterio vs. Mortiz & TJ Boy.
• Cibernetico won’t be at Arena Mexico on Friday night because he’s working in Mission, TX teaming with Kraneo against Octagon & Laredo Kid at the Salon los Portales.
• Volador Jr. defends the UIPW title against Mariachi Loco on 1/30 in Montebello, CA at the Grace Baptist Academy (thanks to Kris Zellner)
• The Crash on 2/12 in Tijuana at Auditorio Municipal has Blue Demon Jr. & Fenix & Rey Hours vs. Teddy Hart & Johnny Mundo & Pentagon Jr plus The Psycho Circus vs. El Texano Jr. & Mr. Maldito & Taurus.
• Lucha Libre Extreme had been off television in Fresno the last few weeks but returned last night with a highlight show.  The hosts claimed that KAIL TV in Fresno moved to a new building and some of the shows were lost as a result.  They announced tapings on 1/31 in Hanford, CA at the Civic Center with Jake O’Brien vs. Guerrera del Muerta for the U.S. title at 3 p.m. (thanks to Jon Southerland)
• Dynamo Pro Wrestling from last night in Fenton, MO:  Bahamut b Ric Maverick, Jayden Fenix b CJ Shine, Ozzie Gallagher b Jackal, Shorty Biggs b Kiyoshi Suzuka, Outtkast  won six-way over Dave DeLorean, Billy McNeil, Justin D’Air, Evan Morris and Rocket Mapache, Mike Sydal b Elvis Aliaga, Jack Gamble & Jon Webb b Michael Magnuson & Danny Adams, Brandon Espinosa b Mike Outlaw, Ricky Cruz b Jake Dirden-DQ, Ricky Cruz & Mike Outlaw b Jake Dirden & Brandon Espinosa (thanks to Patrick Brandmeyer)
• Hoosier Pro Wrestling from last night in Columbus, IN:  Cousin Cooter & Drax O’Brien b Bud Wright & Scarecrow Eddie Felson, Amazing Maria b Haley Shadows, Cowboy Marc Houston b Stan Sierra, Dynamite Dillen b Shawn Cook, Shawn Kemp b JKO Jr. Flash Flanagan b Vic the Bruiser-DQ, Rob Conway NC TJ Kemp.  Next show is 2/6 at the 4-H Fairgrounds with Flanagan vs. Timmy Danger in a strap match (thanks to Jerry Wilson)

ON THIS DAY IN WORLD PRO WRESTLING HISTORY:Full history for 1/10

TNA PPV tonight! That’s right, TNA is running a PPV show tonight, in Bethlehem, PA after four straight days of tapings. As noted by Dave, the ratings for the first real episode of Impact on POP TV did poorly, and I can’t imagine that this PPV will do anything but that. 

Conor McGregor will move up in weight to challenge UFC lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos in an effort to become the UFC’s first dual belt holder and their third fighter to win belts in two weight classes. More on that here. The show in March will be headlined by McGregor vs. RDA and co-headlined by Holly Holm’s first women’s bantamweight championship defense against Miesha Tate. Yes, UFC is not going with the Ronda Rousey rematch immediately.  

We’re looking for reports on tonight’s WWE show in Houston (Brock Lesnar vs. Sheamus, Chris Jericho vs.  Alberto Del Rio, Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens for IC title),tonight’s NXT show in Tampa and tonight’s TNA show in Bethlehem, PA if there’s anything not on the PPV to Dave Meltzer

We’ll also be doing our weekend poll on the TNA show, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to Dave Meltzer

TNA ONE NIGHT ONLY PPV TONIGHT FROM BETHLEHEM, PA AT 8 P.M. EASTERN

Kurt Angle & Drew Galloway vs. Eddie Edwards & Davey Richards vs. Eli Drake & Jessie Godderz

Bobby Roode & James Storm vs. Eric Young & Bram

Women’s gauntlet match for No. 1 contender for the title (possibly to be won by Awesome Kong since Gail Kim vs. Awesome Kong in a title match was already taped for Impact)

Mahabili Shera vs. Aiden O’Shea

Bobby Lashley vs. Tyrus

Mike Bennett vs Robbie E  

NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING RETURNS ON AXS TV AT 8 P.M EASTERN (one hour earlier than usual)

A.J. Styles vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi for IWGP title

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

Bengala & Leono vs. Camorra & Espiritu Negro

Esfinge & Pegasso & Stigma s. Canelo Casas & Okumura & Virus

Silueta vs. Dallys

Marco Corleone & La Mascara & Maximo Sexy vs. Kamaitachi & Negro Casas & Mr. Niebla

Euforia & Ultimo Guerrero & Gran Guerrero vs. Dragon Rojo & Rey Escorpion & Thunder

Volador Jr. & Cibernetico vs. Rush & Caristico

CES MMA FROM LINCOLN, RION AXS TV AT 9 P.M. EASTERN

We’re looking for reports on Saturday from the ROH TV tapings in Concord, NC (Young Bucks vs. Matt Sydal & ACH, Roderick Strong vs. Masada, Frankie Kazarian vs. Alex Shelley, War Machine vs. All Night Express plus Top Prospect tournament matches), Lucha Underground TV tapings in Boyle Heights, CA, WWE house shows in Montgomery, AL (Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus for WWE title; New Day vs. Dudleys & Tommy Dreamer, Kane vs. Bray Wyatt) and Bossier City, LA (Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens for IC title, Chris Jericho vs. Alberto Del Rio, Ryback vs. Rusev), TNA PPV tapings in Bethlehem, PA and NXT in Citrus Springs, FL.

Sunday has Lucha Underground tapings in Boyle Heights, CA, as well as WWE house shows in Mobile, AL (Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus for WWE title; New Day vs. Dudleys & Tommy Dreamer; Kane vs. Bray Wyatt) and Monroe, LA (Dean Ambrose vs. Kevin Owens for IC title, Chris Jericho vs. Alberto Del Rio, Ryback vs. Rusev).

Raw is live Monday from New Orleans.  Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman return on the show.

Smackdown and Main Event tapings will be Tuesday in Lafayette, LA.

If you’ve ever wanted to WATCH our radio shows here on the site, check out our new Youtube page! No full video shows, but lots of video clips, full free audio shows that you can tell your friends about, and much more to come! Make sure you subscribe today! We have have clips of the post Summer Slam / Super China Buffet show featuring a lengthy Brent Kremen discussion, as well as clips from the X-Mas show. This is a soft launch but we will be releasing much more shortly.

Figure Four Weekly

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

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

Wrestling Observer Newsletter

The Latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter: January 11, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Cena out with shoulder injury, New Japan stars to WWE

In the biggest news week in a long time, we’ve got a double issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter this week, covering John Cena’s injury, New Japan stars headed to WWE, a major feature looking at the year that past in pro wrestling and MMA and the year coming up, WWE direction for WrestleMania season, Tokyo Dome coverage, Rizin debut coverage, TNA changes and UFC 195.

Our lead story talks about John Cena’s injury and the injury issues in WWE with more notes on the training program being used. All the news regarding wrestlers leaving New Japan, who’s been contacted, different roles, the various schedules for different guys, other negotiations, what led to these moves, what New Japan needs to learn from this, affects on ROH, and other ideas for New Japan to break out of its standard mentality.

UFC in 2016, the success of the women’s division, UFC business review, big fights on the horizon, the state of WWE in 2015 and 2016, different fan bases, rise of NXT, where New Japan has failed on the international scene, plus AAA, CMLL, Bellator, TNA and ROH prospects in 2016.

Full coverage of New Japan’s Tokyo Dome show, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results, the big angles, Okada’s prospects as the top star, the next big programs on the horizon, big show plans for 2016, the Fanstastica Mania tour lineup and thoughts, New Year’s Dash coverage.

The changes to this year’s Royal Rumble and scout the possibilities and big matches on the horizon for Mania, and the return of Chris Jericho.

WWE Network, John Cena on Peyton Manning and HGH, football coach trying to recruit WWE for Mania, portrayal of Joseph Maroon in the “Concussion”, lots of details on new Dwayne Johnson projects, Lesnar’s schedule, a look at 50/50 booking, Reaction to HHH circumventing his own angle, February NXT, WrestleMania plans, Jericho talks current interview style, WWE looking for new stars around the world, Dusty Rhodes tag team tournament, WWE injury updates, Austin TV show.

A complete look at the debut of the Rizin promotion, details on the ratings and how it compares to WWE & UFC, the Masato vs. Kid Yamamoto show in competition, boxing in competition, Spike TV numbers, Fedor’s return, the freak show fights and what did and didn’t work on the first two shows.

UFC 195, with match-by-match coverage, poll results and business regarding the show, a look at all the close decisions and why they went the way they did.

TNA’s debut on Pop TV, the ratings, the title tournament, who was watching, the PPV show this week, the Mike Bennett debut, the James Storm return, the departure of Taryn Terrell and the good and bad of the latest relaunch.

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

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

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

Rates are:

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

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

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

Click here for the most requested Wrestling Observer back issues.

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

TODAY’S DAILY UPDATE

John Cena’s shoulder injury was for a torn rotator cuff, and the surgery performed by Dr. Jeffrey Dugas in Birmingham was said to be successful.

While UFC is not expected to make the announcement for another day or two, or three, the first major show of 2016 will be 3/5 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas with Rafael dos Anjos vs. Conor McGregor for the lightweight title and Holly Holm vs. Miesha Tate for the women’s bantamweight title.  

The debut of Smackdown on the USA Network did 2,757,000 viewers, up about 600,000 from what the show was doing on Syfy, so the boost of changing networks looks to be significant.

The WWE continues to have fun on its web site with the New Japan raid, showing a photo of most of the Bullet Club, wearing Balor Club T-shirts on their web site while Finn Balor wore a Bullet Club T-shirt in a photo released.  Balor did an interview promoting them coming talking about how he was best friends in Japan with Karl Anderson, as well as good friends with Tama Tonga, Bad Luck Fale and Shinsuke Nakamura while he was in Japan.

Roddy Piper’s last movie, “The Masked Saint,” debuts tonight in 480 theaters around the country.  The story is about the life of a pro wrestler who becomes a pastor, but when there are problems paying the bills, he goes back to wrestling to raise money.  CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL STORY

There was a bomb threat this morning at Arena Mexico.  The building was evacuated at 10:30 a.m. and roads around the arena were blocked off.  The building was searched and no bomb was found.

ROH announced a battle of champions (Jay Lethal & War Machine & Roderick Strong) vs. Bullet Club (Young Bucks & Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows) for 1/22 in Asheville, NC.  Anderson & Gallows are making their advertised ROH dates this month but will not be taking any new dates.

WWE

• WWE stock closed down two cents a share today to $16.30.
• To show the relationship with WWE & Evolve is still strong, WWE allowed Evolve to pass out flyers for their shows in January in Orlando at the NXT tapings last night at Full Sail University.
• Tickets are on sale today for the complete out of Florida NXT shows.  Since they are in smaller buildings, most are likely to sell out quickly. 2/4 in Memphis, 2/5 in Nashville, 2/6 in Indianapolis, 2/18 in Philadelphia (Tower Theater), 2/19 in Asbury Park, NJ, 2/20 in Albany, NY
• Daniel Bryan will be appearing toady in Cincinnati at the Cavalcade of Customs at the Duke Energy Convention Center (thanks to Brian Henke)
• Tommy Dreamer on Katie Nolan’s sports talk show
• A couple of stories on the Anoa’i family and wrestling related to Roman Reigns returning as WWE champion to the Gulf Coast this weekend, where he grew up.  HERE and HERE
• R-Truth promotes the weekend show in Bossier City, LA
• The Dudleys promote the Raw show in New Orleans on Monday

UFC

• UFC officially announced shows on 5/8 in Rotterdam, Holland, which was reported in this week’s Observer, as well as 4/10 in Zagreb, Croatia.  Both will be FS 1 shows. 
• A Frank Mir vs. Mark Hunt heavyweight main event was announced for 3/20 in Brisbane, Australia.

MISCELLANEOUS

• AAA’s vacated heavyweight title, that Alberto Del Rio never lost and wasn’t allowed to return to drop, will be decided on 1/22 in the main event of Guerra de Titanes at Juan de la Barrera Gym in Mexico City.  It will start as a tag match with Dr. Wagner Jr. & Psycho Clown vs. Mesias & El Texano Jr.  The winning team will then have a singles match for the championship.
• Glory 27 takes place on 2/26 in Chicago at the Sears Centre Arena headlined by Artem Levin vs. Simon Marcus for the middleweight title.  There is a pre-sale right now and tickets to on sale to the public at 10 a.m. Sunday.
• During last night’s Dallas Stars vs. Winnipeg Jets game, in Dallas, they were playing the Shinsuke Nakamura entrance music between plays. (thanks to Paul Fontaine) 
• CMLL from Tuesday night at Arena Coliseo in Guadalajara:  Chakal & Thunder Boy b Divino & Metatron, Disturbio & Malefico & Metalico b Omar Brunetti & Sensei & Starman, Okumura & Sangre Azteca & Virus b Esfinge & Pegasso & Stigma, Angel de Oro & Rey Cometa & Titan b Dragon Rojo Jr. & Polvora & Rey Hechicero, El Terrible & Rey Bucanero & Vangellys b Mistico & Valiente & Volador Jr.
• The non-title win in the main event by Terrible & Bucanero & Vangellys sets up a CMLL trios title match on Tuesday night in Guadalajara.
• Casino executive Bryan Lindsey was announced as having acquired a majority equity stake in Tuff N Uff, the 20-year old Las Vegas local promotion.
• IWA Mid South tonight in Clarksville, IN at the Colgate Gym features Billy Gunn, Sami Callihan, Michael Elgin and Kongo Kong.  They also run tomorrow night in the same building with Gunn vs. Reed Bentley and a women’s no rope barbed wire match.
• Ken Anderson on Instragram wrote he was doing voiceovers for a Super Secret Squirrel video game.

Here is today’s daily history: Daily pro wrestling history (01/08): Edge defeats John Cena to win WWE Championship