Author: Dave Meltzer

Dave Meltzer is the founder and lead writer on the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the weekly constant when it comes to news and reviews in pro wrestling and mixed martial arts for more than 40 years. Dave also co-hosts Wrestling Observer Radio with Bryan Alvarez and had had bylines for The National, Yahoo Sports, MMA Fighting and others.

Daily Update: Survivor Series odds, NJPW Tag League, Scurll wins gold

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

WWE SURVIVOR SERIES SUNDAY ON THE WWE NETWORK FROM TORONTO

*Bill Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar – The big story of the fall has been the return of Goldberg building to this match. Goldberg hasn’t wrestled in more than 12 years, and from all indications, he’s doing this match so his son can see him wrestle as a star once. At this point there are no plans for anything else, hence Goldberg pushing that it’s his last match. Of course, being pro wrestling, given that Goldberg’s segments have moved ratings and been well received, anything is possible. If Goldberg is coming back, he could win in a way that is set up by whoever Lesnar will next work with at Rumble or leading to Mania. But if it is Goldberg’s last match, it makes sense, given all the money invested in Lesnar, for Lesnar to win. 

*Kevin Owens & Seth Rollins & Roman Reigns & Chris Jericho & Braun Strowman vs. A.J. Styles & Dean Ambrose & Randy Orton & Bray Wyatt & Shane McMahon in elimination match – To me, you have to split up the wins between Raw and Smackdown. A way to split them up is 3-1 in favor of one group underneath and then have the losing group win this match, since this will go on last and it’s the bragging rights match so to speak. 

*New Day & Enzo Amore & Big Cass & Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson & Shining Stars & Sheamus & Cesaro vs. Heath Slater & Rhyno & Usos & Jason Jordan & Chad Gable & Tyler Breeze & Fandango & Mojo  Rawley & Zack Ryder in tag team elimination match.

*Charlotte & Sasha Banks & Alicia Fox & Bayley & Nia Jax vs. Becky Lynch & Nikki Bella & Naomi & Carmella & Alexa Bliss in elimination match

*The Miz vs. Sami Zayn for IC title

*Brian Kendrick vs. Kalisto for cruiserweight title, if Kalisto wins then cruiserweight move to Smackdown

        Essentially it doesn’t matter that much who wins as much as the new angles shot, both for the brand, or perhaps some stuff between the brands that can pay off at the Rumble show. In theory, there should be significant angles tonight, and many figure Undertaker will figure into it given he was on Smackdown. But this is a show where the stories of the match will mean a lot more than the results. The cruiserweight title is actually the most important because it determines whether the cruiserweights will work TV both Monday on Raw and Tuesday for the 205 show, or they’ll only work Tuesday. It doesn’t make sense to me for the IC title to move to Raw. Miz is a good guy to hold the title and you don’t need a U.S. and IC championship both on the same brand. But WWE is striving for unpredictability.

        They’ve also seemingly closed down whatever leaks there are regarding results. The odds just a few hours before the start of the show indicate no smart money having come in.  Here are the odds right now:

  • Lesnar is a -400 favorite
  • Team Raw for the men’s singles is a -210 favorite
  • Team Raw women is a -185 favorite
  • Team Raw tag is a -270 favorite
  • Sami Zayn is a -320 favorite
  • Kalisto is a -590 favorite

        As noted, it makes no sense to have those results as Raw shouldn’t win all three elimination matches and take the IC title and just lose the cruiser belt. That would make Smackdown come across far too weak.

        Action wise, this should be a very good show. There are lots of unique interactions that can take place in the different matches like Jordan & Gable vs. Cesaro or New Day, Styles vs. Rollins, Different interactions with the three Shield members all as babyfaces (and everyone figures there will be spots related to them). Zayn vs. Miz should be very good. Lesnar vs. Goldberg will largely depend on the crowd, but odds are the crowd will be with it. The big question has been whether the Toronto fans will cheer or boo Goldberg. Goldberg being heavily cheered in Buffalo was a sign, and Goldberg being so likeable this run may get him cheered. At first, the feeling was no way could Goldberg get cheered in Toronto, since that was the one city he got heavily booed in even during his heyday. But that’s a different generation.     

Raw will be Monday night in Toronto. There will also be a Smackdown house show on Monday night in Kingston, Ontario.

NEW JAPAN WORLD TAG LEAGUE IN ISHIKAWA ON NEW JAPAN WORLD (will be up on Tuesday at some point)

  • Seiya Sanada & Evil vs. Bad Luck Fale & Bone Soldier
  • Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma vs. Yoshitatsu & Billy Gunn
  • Hirooki Goto & Tomohiro Ishii vs. Kenny Omega & Chase Owens
  • Katsuyori Shibata & Yuji Nagata vs. Kazuchika Okada & Yoshi-Hashi

Smackdown will be on Tuesday night from Ottawa.

NEW JAPAN WORLD TAG LEAGUE IN NAGOYA ON NEW JAPAN WORLD LIVE AT 2 A.M. LAST TUESDAY NIGHT ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

  • Teruaki Kanemitsu vs. Hirai Kawato
  • Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma & Jushin Liger & Tiger Mask vs. Yoshitatsu & Billy Gunn & Ryusuke Taguchi & David Finlay
  • Katsuyori Shibata & Yuji Nagata & Kushida vs. Seiya Sanada & Evil & Bushi
  • Kazuchika Okada & Hirooki Goto & Tomohiro Ishii & Yoshi-Hashi vs. Kenny Omega & Bad Luck Fale & Chase Owens & Bone Soldier
  • Manabu Nakanishi & Henare vs. Brian Breaker & Leland Race
  • Ray Rowe & Hanson vs. Tama Tonga & Tanga Roa
  • Tetsuya Naito & Rush vs. Yujiro Takahashi & Hangman Page
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi & Juice Robinson vs. Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima

We’re looking for reports on today’s ROH show (Adam Cole vs. Jay Lethal for ROH title, Will Ospreay vs. Marty Scurll, Matt Jackson vs. Jay Briscoe, Mark Briscoe vs. Nick Jackson, Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian vs. Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley vs. ?, Jay White vs. Donovan Dijak, Lio Rush vs. Dalton Castle) in London and today’s ICW big show in Glasgow at [email protected].

We’re also looking for your thoughts on last night’s NXT Takeover show and today’s Survivor Series to [email protected].

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 11/16/2016: Buddy Rose and the California State Athletic Commission

Buddy Rose was always a troublemaker wherever he went, and northern California was no exception. Brought in as the new top heel while still headlining in the Portland territory, it wasn’t long before he started getting in trouble with the California State Athletic Commission. His first infraction was brought up at the commission’s August 13, 1978 meeting, stemming from a show a couple weeks earlier…click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: November 21, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: UFC 205 reviewed, Vader given 2 years to live, more

Conor McGregor and the records set on Saturday night is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.  We have a full report live from UFC 205, including the unique situation McGregor is in regarding his power from his box office, from the realities of the UFC sale, and his demands of getting a stake in the company.  We look at the profit margin of McGregor’s three fights as well as the total revenue he generates.  We look at what he means compared to a normal headliner.  We look at the situation with him holding two titles, a look at the contenders in three weight classes on hold until McGregor makes his next pick for a fight.  We look at the biggest live gates in combat sports history and where Saturday ranks, the retirement of Miesha Tate, and how UFC’s biggest enemy ended up leading to its most successful live gate ever.  We also have early PPV buyrate trends and full match coverage.

We have a story on the life of Leon “Vader” White, the creation of Big Van Vader and how it got over, his WCW and UWFI runs, his brawl with Paul Orndorff, why he never won WWF title, and his recent serious health issues.

We look at Bill Goldberg and his first match in 12 years, and the business of WWE in Toronto this week.

Also in this issue, Paul Levesque talks Conor McGregor, new WWE signings, WWE WrestleMania weekend business comparisons, Sin Cara punishments, Hulk Hogan talks rumors of a return, Shawn Michaels at the Performance Center and the basic idea for who will do what, latest WWE injuries, a new WWE network show that was taped, Rhyno talks about his failed election, LeBron James/Undertaker story, XFL documentary, Paige update, and the McMahons/Foley/Bryan network special, Linda McMahon being considered for a major position in the Trump administration and even Dwayne Johnson talking about running for president in the future and his positives and negatives.

We have a WWE Network feature examining the different gimmicks the company is using to try to get new subscribers and maintain existing ones.  We look at why they are done, the timing, the battle plan, why it could work, where they may be sacrificing money and how UFC is doing something similar.

This is just a taste of what is in the new 35,000 word weekly Wrestling Observer Newsletter for subscribers… click here to continue.

ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer, or by using PayPal directing funds to [email protected]. 

Rates in the United States are $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 [email protected]. 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 choose one free classic issue, or two free classic issues with a 40-issue subscription.

WON BACK ISSUE:October 25, 1999: WWF No Mercy review, first Nitro with Vince Russo, more – The new era of WCW television began on 10/18 in Philadelphia, with Vince Russo and Ed Ferrara’s first Nitro. There was no mistaking the fingerprints even if viewers didn’t have that fact drummed into their heads from early in the show. Far more detailed work was done in scripting the show then at any Nitro in recent memory and possibly ever… click here to continue.

SUNDAY NEWS UPDATE

Bryan and I will be back tonight talking Survivor Series and the rest of the weekend news late tonight. 

Ed Francis, who was a major star in the 50s and world junior heavyweight champion and ran the Hawaii territory in the 60s and 70s golden age of that promotion passed away on Friday at the age of 91. We have a major story on him and the heyday of Hawaii in this coming week’s Observer and talked about him on last night’s show. Ed Francis and Lord Blears always retained a high degree of respect in the islands. Francis also had two sons who wrestled, Bill & Russ, and Russ was far more famous as a tight end with the New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers. Hawaii was a real hotbed, one of the top wrestling cities in the country during the 60s, but it was difficult to promote a territory because it was a small population base, and because transportation of top stars was far more expensive than most cities where people could drive in and out of. 

Marty Scurll beat Will Ospreay to win the ROH TV title on the show in London today. The last word we heard is the TV title match at Final Battle will now be Scurll defending against Bobby Fish, Dragon Lee and Ospreay, although that can change.  

Yesterday was just the craziest day with four major events, with the two UFC shows, Bellator and NXT, not to mention the big boxing match last night. For general public interest, it was surprisingly low. The only thing that even hit 20,000 searches on Google was Andre Ward, at 200,000, which was No. 2 behind Hamilton at 500,000. The 200,000 number would not be a good sign for the boxing buy rate, as that’s where bottom UFC shows fit in. I’d expect Survivor Series at 500,000 or more by the end of the day today and as one of the highest, but it’s not listed yet.

They opened up new seating tonight for Survivor Series as the stage they are using is smaller than usual apparently. 

Bobby Fish missed today’s ROH show in London. I believe there was a family emergency..   

WWE

UFC

  • The UFC show did 30,000 viewers on FOX in Holland yesterday. That’s the Belfast show, not the Sao Paulo show. That was described as okay for a Saturday night with stiff competition. Marloes Coenen did a great job as an announcer. The reports we got on Alistair Overeem were the exact opposite. Sander Schrik did a good job as lead announcer.  Overeem did say he expects to fight again in February and that UFC will be running a show in Holland in 2017. Bob Schreiber, another announcer, said Stefan Struve was offered a very interesting match that could set up him with a fight with Stipe Miocic down the line. (thanks to Hank Mulder)    

MISCELLANEOUS

  • WrestleCircus from last night in Austin, TX for a loaded indie show before about 385 fans: Aaron Solow & Ricky Stars b The Boys (the ones who usually work with Dalton Castle but had the weekend off since they weren’t flown to England), Joey Ryan b Dick Justice, Jessy Sorensen & Wes Brisco b Jax Dane & Houston Carson when Carson turned on Dane, Christy Jaynes b Veda Scott, Scorpio Sky won three-way over Rocky Romero and Jervis Cottonbelly to retain Sideshow title, Mr. 450 Hammet won over Bolt Brady, ACH and Laredo Kid to earn a shot at Scorpio Sky, Jeff Cobb b Willie Mack (subbed for Tony Nese who pulled out after signing with WWE), Sammy Guevara b Prince Mutafa Ali, Ethan Carter III beat an unknown guy who was just there to get killed, Brian Cage b Chris Hero. Hero did a promo talking about how great the locker room was. Michael Elgin was there but didn’t wrestle, but was wearing New Japan warmups gear and said people on Twitter have been asking when he will face Cobb for the first time and said it would be on 12/17 in Austin. Also announced for that show was EC III vs. Pentagon Jr. (thanks to John Tovar and Chris A)
  • Preston City Wrestling and CZW joint show from Friday night in Liverpool, drawing 250 fans about a mile away from the ROH show: Desmond Xavier b Zachary Wentz, Rampage Brown b Chris Dickinson, Jack Baron b Philip Michael, Shane Douglas & Honky Tonk Man b Dave Rayne & Joey Hayes, AR Fox b El Ligero in an excellent match, Dave Crist b T Bone, Joey Janela b Jimmy Jey, Bubblegum b Dean Allmark in what was also reported as an excellent match.   
  • PCW & CZW from last night in Manchester: Desmond Xavier & Zachary Wentz b Chris Dickinson & Dave Crist Rampage Brown b Dave Rayne (Rayne cut the same line Joey Styles did last week to ring announcer Joanne Rose and then blamed her for ending the career of Styles), Jenny B b Lauren, Honky Tonk Man & Danny Hope b Lionheat & Sha Samuels-DQ, Joey Hayes b Joey Janela, Philip Michael b Jack Baron, Bubblegum b AR Fox in what was said to be a great match, Ashton Smith b T-Bone falls count anywhere. (thanks to Geoff Nuttal)
  • Big Time Wrestling Thanksgiving Thunder on Friday night at Freedom Hall in Johnson City. There will be a 6 p.m. meet and greet and an 8 p.m. show. Appearing are Sting, Jim Cornette, Ron Simmons, Ted DiBiase, Gangrel, Ricky Morton ad Robert Gibson. Morton & Gibson will challenge the Heatseekers for the Smoky Mountain tag team title in the main event. Tickets are available at btwtickes.com.
  • St. Louis Anarchy ran its final show on Friday night in St. Louis, as they were bought out by the National Wrestling League that will run regular shows it the city: Devin & Mason Cutter b Alexandre Rudolph & Jake Parnell, Sean Orleans won four-way over Cody Lane, Ken Lee and Chris Brunk, Donovan Danhusen b Slade Sledge, Ricky Stars b Kiyoshi Shizuka, Kevin Lee Davidson b Mike Outlaw, Jimmy Rave b Everett Connors, Angelus Layne & Austin Blackburn b Evan Gelistico & Danny Adams, Aaron Solow won three-way over Paco Gonzalez and Jason Roberts, Zakk Sawyers & Mikey McFinnegan b Nick Iggy & Kerry Awful, Jordan Lacey b Matt Kenway, Davey Vega won three-way over Gary Jay and Mat Fitchett to win the SLA title. (thanks to Patrick Brandmeyer)
  • NWA President Bruce Tharpe gave a plaque to Jose Lothario to induct him into the NWA Hall of Fame for the 2017 class.
  • Jimmy Hart will be doing a meet and greet for Southern Illinois Championship Wrestling on 12/10 in East Carondelet, IL with Ron Powers vs. Vic the Bruiser as the main event plus the debut of Kongo Kong.
  • European Wrestling Association ran last night in Vienna before 450 to 500, which was a sellout show.  This is the promotion that is run by Chris Raaber and Michael Kovacs.  Robert Dreissker returned after being out since January from a shoulder injury in a  War Games match.  He looked good in the ring and is looking to return to wXw in 2017.  Results:  Muslim Sultanov b Franz Lerchbacher, Robert Dreissker b Pascal Spalter, Iestyn Rees b Michael Kovac to win the EWA TopCatch European title, Moxide b Slamerella in a  women’s tournament qualifier, Jon Titan b Mike Skull, Chris Colen & Damon Brix & Peter White b Hellvetic Warrior & Drake Destroyer & Patrick Schulz,  Next show is 12/30 in Leoben with Alberto Del Rio.  They said he’s bringing Paige with him and they are going to celebrate the new year together in Austria.  Raaber is scheduled against Joe Doering, which to me is good news because the last word we’d heard on Doering was that he was battling brain cancer and he hasn’t wrestled in a long time.  Hopefully that means he’s beaten it. (thanks to Markus Groneman)
  • Crossfire Wrestling on 12/3 in St. Catharines, ONT at the Merriton Community Centre at 5 p.m. with Cody Deaner vs. Kongo Kong,.
  • Ignite Wrestling from last night in Okeechobee, FL: Puerto Rican Hounddog b Chuckles, Matt Knotts & Jude jean b Marcos Espada & Jester Yorick, Lacy Lane b Trish Adora, Teddy Stigma won over C.J. O’Doyle and Nick Nero, Jon Cruz b Aaron Epic, Chico Adams & Ronnie Ladd b James Anthony & James Ryan & Jacob Ryan, Angel Rose b Johann Ramzes, Rex Bacchus & Slate Porter b Dirty Blondes, Kahagas b Timmy Lou Retton (thanks to Kim Artlip)

CONTACT INFORMATION

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Bellator 165 live results: Michael Chandler vs. Benson Henderson; Fedor vs. Mitrione announced

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Bellator MMA returns to San Jose, CA, for a big show featuring a big lightweight title fight between Michael Chandler and former UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson.

Chandler (15-3) is gunning for his fourth straight win and the first title defense of his second lightweight title reign. He regained the belt by defeating Patricky “Pitbull” Freire in June, his third straight finish in three fights.

Henderson (24-6) already has his second title shot in three fights and is looking for his best Bellator outing to date. After being dispatched by Andrei Koreshkov in an unsuccessful bid for the welterweight title, Henderson earned the shot in a fluke win over Patricio Pitbull earlier this year. 

In the co-main event, Michael Venom Page continues his ascension toward the top of the welterweight ranks if he can beat veteran Fernando Gonzalez. 

Also on the main show, Keri Anne Melendez — the wife of UFC lightweight Gilbert Melendez — makes her MMA debut.

Our live cageside coverage will kick off with the main card at 9 p.m. EST.

**********

LINTON VASSELL (16-5) VS. FRANCIS CARMONT (25-11), LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS

First round:  Low kick by Vassell and Carmont back.  Leftby Vassell and body kick by Carmont.   Vassell went for a takedown.  He’s on top in mount.  Now Vassell has his back with a body triangle.  Vassell threw a few punches.  He’s working for a choke as time runs out.  10-9 Vassell.

Second round:  Carmont with a body kick.  Anotehr body kick by  Carmont.  Carmont got a takedown.  Now he’s working on getting Vassell’s back.  Carmont his Vassell’s back and trying to get a choke.  Vassell reversed and now has Carmont’s back.  Vassell working for a choke.   Vassell throwing elbows from that position.   Vassell punching.  Finally the crowd is booing.  It took this crowd longer than most as there are crowds who would have destroyed this fight by now.  20-18 Vassell.

Third round:  Vassell with a few punches.  Vassell working for a takedown.  Carmont ended up on top but Vassell scrambled back up.  Vassell with punches.  Vassell took him down and got his back.  Vassell  again working for a choke.  Carmont up with 32 seconds left but he looks exhausted.  Carmont needs a knockout to win and he’s walking away.  Vassell 30-27.

Scores:  30-26, 30-26 and 30-25 for Vassell.    

KERI TAYLOR MELENDEZ (0-0) VS. SHEILA PADILLA (2-0), WOMEN’S STRAWWEIGHT

First round:  Melendez got a real big reaction as her husband was one of the stars who built MMA in this building.  Melendez cracked her with a  right hook to the jaw and one hard punch on the ground and it’s over.  :47

ADAM PICCOLOTTI (8-0) VS. BRANDON GIRTZ (14-4), LIGHTWEIGHTS

First round:  Piccolotti with a low kick and body kick.  Front kick by Piccolotti and a jumping knee.  Another jumping knee and Girtz threw him down.  Front kick by Piccolotti and Fritz back with a punch.  Piccolotti with a right.  Girtz hurt him with a right.  Low kick by Piccolotti.  Body kick by Piccolotti.  Left by Girtz.  Lefft by Girtz.  Knee by Piccolotti and a hard right  and kick to the face and Girtz back.  The crowd is going nuts.  Piccolotti 10-9

Second round:  Girtz with a right.  Left by Girtz.  Body kick by PIccolotti.  Left by Girtz.  Knee by Piccolotti.  Body shot by Girtz.  Both missing punches.  Piccolotti with a takedown.  Now he’s got his back.  Girtz back up.  Knee by Piccolotti.  Jumping knee by Piccolotti.  Piccolotti 20-18.

Third round:  Piccolotti landed a left.  Piccolotti with a body kick.  Gritz with a right.  Left by  Girtz.  Left by Piccollotti.  Piccolotti went for a takedown but Girtz on top and landed punches.  Piccolotti back up.  Girtz with a right.  Low kick by by Piccolotti.  Girtz’s right leg is all bruised up. Girtz landed a big right and is chasing him down.  Hard slam by Girtz.  Girtz landing elbows and Piccolotti working for a heel hook.  Gritz with hard body shots and now landing punches from the top.  Girtz’s round 10-9.   Good fight.  29-28 Piccolotti.

Scores:  All three judges had it 29-28 for Piccolotti

They just announced Fedor Emelianenko vs. Matt Mitrione for February 18 in San Jose at the SAP Center.  Fedor was here, sweater in tow.  He’s signed a multi-fight deal with Bellator.

MICHAEL VENOM PAGE (11-0) VS. FERNANDO GONZALEZ (25-13), WELTERWEIGHTS

First round:  Hard kick by Page t the right shoulder.  Page showboating around.  Crowd booing quickly here.  Right by Page.  Not much happening and crowd is booing.  Page threw a knee that missed.  Page landed a kick just as the round ended.  10-9 Page but almost 10-10.

Second round:  Nothing happening this round either.  MVP shook his butt and got booed  Crowd booing heavy.  Page slipped and Gonzalez landed a punch before he got up.  Page is just not fighting.  Page threw a knee at the end of the round.  Could easily be a 10-10 but I’ll go with Gonzalez since he did land a punch so 19-19 after two.

Third round:  Spin kick missed and Gonzalez going for a takedown.  Uppercut by Gonzalez.  I have no idea what got into Page but he’s not fighting.  Gonzalez moving forward and Page moving backards.  He’s giving away this fight against a guy he was booked to easily beat.  The ref is warning Page about not fighting.  Page threw a few jabs.  Gonzalez has him against the fence going for a takedown.  Crowd booing this like crazy.  Gonzalez 29-28.

Scores:     29-28 Page 30-27 Gonzalez 29-28 Page.  Crowd hated that Page won.  Never has a guy deserved to win a fight less.    

MICHAEL CHANDLER (15-3)  VS. BENSON HENDERSON (24-6) FOR BELLATOR LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE

First round:  Henderson tagged him with a right and Chandler with a body kick.  Body kick by Chandler.  Body kick by Henderson and he slipped and fell down.  Right by Chandler.  Body kick by Chandler.  Dueling chants believe it or not.  Hard uppercut by Chandler and he missed wildly on a follow up.  Chandler landed an uppercut.  Chandler threw Henderson down.  Chandler landing punches, Unreal German suplex by Chandler.   Chandler is going for a choke.  Chandler landing body punches as Henderson is down.  Hard punch by Chandler and another.  Cadlenr with a guillotine.  Henderson out but Chandler landed another good punch.  Chandler with a hard right on the ground.  Henderson back up and Chandler threw him down.  Henderson shot in and Chandler with another guillotine attempt.  Henderson out and throwing body punches.  Chandler 10-9.  Great round.

Second round:  Low kick by Henderson.  Another low kick by Henderson.  Hard body kick by Chandler.  Knee by Henderson.  Henderson dropped him with a right.  Body kick by Henderson.  Left by Henderson.  Right by Henderson.  Chandler’s left leg is all bruised up.  Chandler hurt him with a right.  Hard body kicks by Chandler.  Henderson kicked him in the groin.  Side kicks by Henderson.  Hard right by Chandler  Body kick and punch by Chandler.  Henderson needs to do something about his hair getting in his eyes.  Body kick by Henderson.  Knee by Henderson.  Close round to Henderson 19-19.

Third round:  Henderson with a right and a body kick.  Hard body shot by Chandler.  Henderson went for a takedown.  Hard body kick by Chandler.  Right by Chandler.  Head kick by Henderson.  Henderson shot in for a takedown.  Chandler  again got a guillotine.  Henderson out of trouble but Chandler is on top.  Chandler got his back.  Henderson threw a  high kick.   Chandler’s round 29-28.

Fourth round:  Henderson with a right.  Chandler picked him up and slammed him.  Chandler on top.  Chandler riding and Henderson back up.  Henderson with a knee and Chandler took him back down.  Henderson went for an armlock but Chandler out.  Chandler riding him.  Henderson throwing elbows to the body and got Chandler’s back and working for a choke.  Chandler reversed to the top.  Chandler’s round 39-37.  Good finish to the round.

Fifth round:  Body kick by Chandler.  Right by Chandler.  Left by Henderson.  Henderson with a nice right and a good body shot.  Jumping knee by Henderson and Henderson took him down and got his back.  Henderson is working for a choke.  Hendeson with a body triangle.  Chandler reversed to the top.  Henderson back on top with elbows.  Henderson with punches and elbows from the top.  Henderson with a knee.  Henderson’s round I’ve got 48-47 Chandler but there were close rounds.

Scores:  48-46 Chandler boos.  48-46 Henderson 48-47 Chandler.  Fans booed the decision.

Chandler talked about a rematch with Henderson but issued a direct challenge  to Josh Thomson.

Daily Update: Ospreay wins ROH gold, NJPW, CMLL, UFC double header

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

THE ROUND-UP

The latest from the F4W Staff

And new ROH TV Champion…

NEWS

AUDIO 

Please send reports to [email protected] for the following shows:

  • NXT in Boston at the Agannis Arena
  • ROH show in Liverpool
  • NXT show tonight in Tampa.

For the weekend, we’ll be doing polls for both NXT Takeover and Survivor Series, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected].

This is one of the biggest weekends of the year with Survivor Series, NXT Takeover, two UFC shows, Bellator and the ROH tour of the U.K. as the highlights.

INVICTA AT 8 P.M. TONIGHT ON FIGHT PASS FROM KANSAS CITY’S SCOTTISH RITE TEMPLE

  • Samantha Diaz (115.9) vs. Miranda Maverick (118) – Diaz cut her hair to make weight, Maverick will be fined for missing weight
  • Stephanie Egger (135.7) vs. Alexa Conners (135.9) 
  • Lynn Alvarez (115.5) vs. J.J. Aldrich (115.9)
  • Jessica-Rose Clark (136) vs. Pam Sorenson (140.6) – Sorenson will be fined for missing weight
  • Amber Brown (114.8) vs. Ashley Yoder (117) – Yoder will be fined for missing weight
  • Herica Tiburcio (105.9) vs. Simona Soukupova (106)
  • Angela Hill (114.8) vs. Kaline Medeiros (114.1) for the strawweight title
  • Tonya Evinger (134.7) vs. Yana Kunitskaya (134.1) for the bantamweight title

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

  • 2016 New Japan Cup semifinals and finals
  • Tetsuya Naito vs. Toru Yano
  • Michael Elgin vs. Hirooki Goto
  • Winners meet in finals

CMLL LIVE FROM ARENA MEXICO AT 9:30 P.M. EASTERN TIME  HERE

  • Fuego & Pegasso vs. Tiger & Virus
  • Drone & Guerrero Maya Jr. & Rey Cometa vs. Dragon Rojo Jr. & Polvora & Bobby Z
  • Angel de Oro & Dragon Lee & Volador Jr. vs. Cavernario & Felino & Negro Casas
  • Elimination match for Copa Leyenda Azul (Blue Demon Cup):  Atlantis, Blue Panther, El Terrible, Diamante Azul, Euforia, Gran Guerrero, Kraneo, Marco Corleone, La Mascara, Mascara Ano 2000, Maximo Sexy, Rey Bucanero, Hechicero and Ultimo Guerrero
  • We’re looking for reports Saturday from the ROH show in Leicester, England (Adam Cole vs. Chris Sabin, Alex Shelley vs. Jay Lethal, Jay White vs. Joe Hendry, Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian vs. Dalton Castle & Delirious, Dijak vs. Lio Rush.

UFC ON SATURDAY FROM BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND AT 12:30 P.M. EASTERN TIME ON FIGHT PASS

  • Abdul Razak Al-Hassan (170) vs. Charlie Ward (169)
  • Brett Johns (136) vs. Kwan Ho Kwak (136)
  • Marion Reneau (135) vs. Milena Dudieva (135)
  • Zak Cummings (172.8) vs. Alexander Yakovlev (171) – Cummings forfeits 20% of his purse for missing weight 
  • Mark Godbeer (238) vs. Justin Ledet (240)
  • Amanda Cooper (116) vs. Anna Elmose (116)
  • Kevin Lee (155) vs. Magomed Mustafaev (156)
  • Ali Bagautinov (126) vs. Kyoji Horiguchi (125)
  • Magnus Cedenblad (185) vs. Jack Marshman (184)
  • Teruto Ishihara (146) vs. Artem Lobov (144)
  • Timothy Johnson (264) vs. Alexander Volkov (249)
  • Ross Pearson (156) vs. Stevie Ray (155)
  • Uriah Hall (185) vs. Gegard Mousasi (184)

UFC ON SATURDAY NIGHT FROM SAO PAULO, BRAZIL

Fight Pass at 6 p.m. Eastern

  • Francimar Barroso vs. Darren Stewart
  • Pedro Munhoz vs. Justin Scoggins

FS 1 at 7 p.m. Eastern

  • Christian Colombo vs. Luis Henrique
  • Johnny Eduardo vs. Manny Gamburyan
  • Gadzhimt Antigulov vs. Marcos Rogerio de Lima
  • Cezar Ferreira vs. Jack Hermansson
  • Sergio Moraes vs. Zak Ottow
  • Warlley Alves vs. Kamaru Usman
  • Krzysztof Jotko vs. Thales Leites
  • Claudia Gadelha vs. Cortney Casey
  • Thomas Almeida vs. Albert Morales
  • Ryan Bader vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira

NXT TAKEOVER IN TORONTO ON SATURDAY NIGHT AT 8 P.M. EASTERN TIME ON WWE NETWORK

  • Shinsuke Nakamura vs Samoa Joe for NXT title
  • Dash Wilder & Scott Dawson vs. Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano 2/3 falls for tag titles 
  • Asuka vs. Mickie James for women’s title
  • Bobby Roode vs. Tye Dillinger
  • TM 61 vs. Authors of Pain in finals of Dusty Rhodes tag team classic

They will also tape matches for NXT television live starting at 7:30 p.m.

BELLATOR ON SATURDAY NIGHT FROM SAN JOSE, CA AT THE SAP CENTER AT 9 P.M. EASTERN ON SPIKE TV

  • Keri Melendez vs. Sheila Padilla
  • Brandon Girtz vs. Adam Piccolotti
  • Linton Vassell vs. Francis Carmont
  • Michael Venom Page vs. Fernando Gonzalez
  • Michael Chandler vs. Benson Henderson for lightweight title

NEW JAPAN WORLD TAG LEAGUE IN GUNMA AT 2 A.M. EASTERN TIME LATE SATURDAY NIGHT

  • Teruaki Kanemitsu vs. Hirai Kawato
  • Katsuyori Shibata & Yuji Nagata & Jushin Liger & Tiger Mask vs. Yoshitatsu & Billy Gunn & Kushida & David Finlay
  • Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma & Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Seiya Sanada & Evil & Bushi
  • Kazuchika Okada & Hirooki Goto & Tomohiro Ishii & Yoshi-Hashi vs. Kenny Omega & Bad Luck Fale & Chase Owens & Bone Soldier
  • Manabu Nakanishi & Henare vs. Yujiro Takahashi & Hangman Page
  • Brian Breaker & Leland Race vs. Tama Tonga & Tanga  Roa
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi & Juice Robinson vs. Ray Rowe & Hanson
  • Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima vs. Tetsuya Naito & Rush

We’re looking for reports Sunday from the ROH show in London at York Hall (Adam  Cole vs. Jay Lethal for ROH title, Will Ospreay vs. Marty Scurll, Matt Jackson vs. Jay Briscoe, Mark Briscoe vs. Nick Jackson, Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian vs. Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley vs. Bobby Fish & ?, Jay White vs. Donovan Dijak, Lio Rush vs. Dalton Castle).

WWE SURVIVOR SERIES SUNDAY AT 6:30 P.M. ON WWE NETWORK FROM TORONTO

  • Bill Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar
  • Kevin Owens & Seth Rollins & Roman Reigns & Chris Jericho & Braun Strowman vs. A.J. Styles & Dean Ambrose & Randy Orton & Bray Wyatt & Shane McMahon in elimination match
  • New Day & Enzo Amore & Big Cass & Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson & Shining Stars & Sheamus & Cesaro vs. Heath Slater & Rhyno & Usos & Jason Jordan & Chad Gable & Tyler Breeze & Fandango & Mojo  Rawley & Zack Ryder in tag team elimination match
  • Charlotte & Sasha Banks & Alicia Fox & Bayley & Nia Jax vs. Becky Lynch & Nikki Bella & Naomi & Carmella & Alexa Bliss in elimination match
  • The Miz vs. Sami Zayn for IC title
  • Brian Kendrick vs. Kalisto for cruiserweight title, if Kalisto wins then cruiserweight move to Smackdown

Raw will be Monday night in Toronto. There will also be a Smackdown house show on Monday night in Kingston, Ontario.

NEW JAPAN WORLD TAG LEAGUE IN ISHIKAWA ON NEW JAPAN WORLD (will be up on Tuesday at some point)

  • Seiya Sanada & Evil vs. Bad Luck Fale & Bone Soldier
  • Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma vs. Yoshitatsu & Billy Gunn
  • Hirooki Goto & Tomohiro Ishii vs. Kenny Omega & Chase Owens
  • Katsuyori Shibata & Yuji Nagata vs. Kazuchika Okada & Yoshi-Hashi
  • Smackdown will be on Tuesday night from Ottawa.

NEW JAPAN WORLD TAG LEAGUE IN NAGOYA ON NEW JAPAN WORLD LIVE AT 2 A.M. LAST TUESDAY NIGHT ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

  • Teruaki Kanemitsu vs. Hirai Kawato
  • Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma & Jushin Liger & Tiger Mask vs. Yoshitatsu & Billy Gunn & Ryusuke Taguchi & David Finlay
  • Katsuyori Shibata & Yuji Nagata & Kushida vs. Seiya Sanada & Evil & Bushi
  • Kazuchika Okada & Hirooki Goto & Tomohiro Ishii & Yoshi-Hashi vs. Kenny Omega & Bad Luck Fale & Chase Owens & Bone Soldier
  • Manabu Nakanishi & Henare vs. Brian Breaker & Leland Race
  • Ray Rowe & Hanson vs. Tama Tonga & Tanga Roa
  • Tetsuya Naito & Rush vs. Yujiro Takahashi & Hangman Page
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi & Juice Robinson vs. Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 11/16/2016: Buddy Rose and the California State Athletic Commission

Buddy Rose was always a troublemaker wherever he went, and northern California was no exception. Brought in as the new top heel while still headlining in the Portland territory, it wasn’t long before he started getting in trouble with the California State Athletic Commission. His first infraction was brought up at the commission’s August 13, 1978 meeting, stemming from a show a couple weeks earlier…click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: November 21, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: UFC 205 reviewed, Vader given 2 years to live, more

Conor McGregor and the records set on Saturday night is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.  We have a full report live from UFC 205, including the unique situation McGregor is in regarding his power from his box office, from the realities of the UFC sale, and his demands of getting a stake in the company.  We look at the profit margin of McGregor’s three fights as well as the total revenue he generates.  We look at what he means compared to a normal headliner.  We look at the situation with him holding two titles, a look at the contenders in three weight classes on hold until McGregor makes his next pick for a fight.  We look at the biggest live gates in combat sports history and where Saturday ranks, the retirement of Miesha Tate, and how UFC’s biggest enemy ended up leading to its most successful live gate ever.  We also have early PPV buyrate trends and full match coverage.

We have a story on the life of Leon “Vader” White, the creation of Big Van Vader and how it got over, his WCW and UWFI runs, his brawl with Paul Orndorff, why he never won WWF title, and his recent serious health issues.

We look at Bill Goldberg and his first match in 12 years, and the business of WWE in Toronto this week.

Also in this issue, Paul Levesque talks Conor McGregor, new WWE signings, WWE WrestleMania weekend business comparisons, Sin Cara punishments, Hulk Hogan talks rumors of a return, Shawn Michaels at the Performance Center and the basic idea for who will do what, latest WWE injuries, a new WWE network show that was taped, Rhyno talks about his failed election, LeBron James/Undertaker story, XFL documentary, Paige update, and the McMahons/Foley/Bryan network special, Linda McMahon being considered for a major position in the Trump administration and even Dwayne Johnson talking about running for president in the future and his positives and negatives.

We have a WWE Network feature examining the different gimmicks the company is using to try to get new subscribers and maintain existing ones.  We look at why they are done, the timing, the battle plan, why it could work, where they may be sacrificing money and how UFC is doing something similar.

This is just a taste of what is in the new 35,000 word weekly Wrestling Observer Newsletter for subscribers… click here to continue.

ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer, or by using PayPal directing funds to [email protected]. 

Rates in the United States are $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 [email protected]. 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 choose one free classic issue, or two free classic issues with a 40-issue subscription.

WON BACK ISSUE:October 25, 1999: WWF No Mercy review, first Nitro with Vince Russo, more – The new era of WCW television began on 10/18 in Philadelphia, with Vince Russo and Ed Ferrara’s first Nitro. There was no mistaking the fingerprints even if viewers didn’t have that fact drummed into their heads from early in the show. Far more detailed work was done in scripting the show then at any Nitro in recent memory and possibly ever… click here to continue.

FRIDAY NEWS UPDATE

WrestleMania tickets are available right now for the public. A lot of sections are already sold out between fans and the secondary market. They are running at Camping World Stadium which will have a Mania capacity of around 65,000.

Dana White did an interview with the Los Angeles Times where he said that Conor McGregor would not be fighting until May. He also talked about working with Ari Emanuel, that Michael Bisping’s knee injury won’t allow him to headline the 1/21 show in Anaheim and that right now they don’t have main events for that show, or the February and March PPVs. The story is here.

As reported in the Observer, Rush ended up being Tetsuya Naito’s mystery partner in the New Japan tag team tournament which started this morning. They beat Hiroshi Tanahashi & Juice Robinson in today’s main event at Korakuen Hall on the first day. Today’s show is up for free on New Japan World. Subscribers will also get every match of the tag team tournament as well as the complete cards on both late Saturday/early Sunday and late Tuesday/early Wednesday that were just added to the schedule.

New Japan on AXS tonight will start at 8 p.m., which is one hour earlier than usual due to Lion Fights starting at 9 p.m.  

Here is a really cool Brock Lesnar vs Bill Goldbergvideo building up Sunday’s main event.

WWE

  • Charlotte talks this coming year’s WrestleMania in Orlando.
  • There are still great seats available for tomorrow night’s NXT show in Toronto without going to the secondary market, but there are probably some bargains on the secondary market since supply exceeds demand. That isn’t the case at all for Survivor Series on Sunday.
  • Tony Nese, who has signed with WWE, will be doing some indie dates through 12/16 that he’s committed to but nothing after that.
  • USA Today has an interview with Paul Heyman about the Lesnar vs. Goldberg match.
  • A.J. Styles talks working for WWE and the breakup of The Club is here.
  • The Irish Times has an article on Becky Lynch.

UFC

  • Ryan Bader noted that his contract expires with his fight tomorrow in Sao Paulo, Brazil against Antonio Rogerio Nogueira.
  • Ian McCall continues his unreal streak of fourth straight fights not taking place. The first three times, it was due to issues with his opponent. This time, regarding tomorrow’s show in Belfast, he took ill and was ruled unable to fight. Neil Seery, his opponent, weighed in and will get his show money. Seery had announced this would be his retirement fight, but since it isn’t taking place, he said he would still like to fight again.  

VARIETY

  • Tonight’s CMLL from Arena Mexico features the annual Blue Demon Cibernetico (elimination match).
  • Volador Jr. defends the NWA Historic welterweight title against Mephisto on Tuesday night at Arena Mexico, which airs on the CMLL YouTube channel live.
  • Jim Ross is doing a talk show in Toronto on Sunday and here are some of the details of that in a Toronto Sun article. 
  • Barrie Wrestling on 12/3 at the Ferris Lane Community Church in Barrie, ONT.
  • Pro Wrestling Phoenix from last night in Omaha:  Zac James b Devin Carter, Robert Storm b Ajax Adams, Purple & Con Aritest b Dalton Lee Roth & Cuco Santiago, Rory Fox b Mad Dog McDowell, Darren Russell & Duke Cornell b Paul Daniels & Joey Daniels, Pat Powers b Branden Juarez.  Next show in 12/14 at the Waiting Room Lounge in Omaha.
  • Tammy Sytch’s sentencing based on her probation violation that was scheduled for today was moved back to February. 

These independent shows this weekend are doing holiday-themed charity events. (Thanks to Bob Magee for the notes.)

  • Pro Wrestling King returns to Century Center, 120 S. Saint Joseph St, South Bend, IN on November 18. Non perishable items are being collected for the Food Bank of Northern Indiana. For your non perishable donation, receive $2 off the price of an adult admission ticket. 
  • Dynamo Pro Wrestling will hold shows on both Saturday, November 19th at the Douglas Club in Wood River, IL and on November 26th at the Ready Room in St. Louis, MO, collecting Toys for Tots. The company will also be collecting toys for the Tots for Tots from Monday, November 7th through Wednesday, December 7 at our November events as well as several additional locations throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area. 
  • Reno Wrestle Factory presents Headlock on Hunger on Saturday, November 19 with a 7:00 pm bell time at the Edward C. Reed High School, 1350 Baring Blvd, Sparks, NV to benefit The Food Bank of Northern Nevada. Admission is five cans of food. 
  • NCW and Henderson County Toys for Tots presents “A Night To Give” on Saturday, November 19 at 7 PM at the Hedrick-Rhodes VFW Post 5206, 900 N Main St, Hendersonville, NC. Seven big matches and four title matches. Doors open at 7 pm 
  • and belltime is 8 pm. Proceeds from this event go to provide toys for local children. Henderson County Toys for Tots will have a special concession stand that night with all proceeds going to the Toys for Tots. Tickets prices are $10 for Adults or $5 plus an unwrapped new toy of equal or more value. Children ages 6-14 are $5. Children 5 and under are free with an accompanying adult. 
  • Cross Roads Wrestling returns on November 19 to Riverside, NJ at 300 Rancocas Avenue, for “Fastlane to Pain”, which will serve as a fundraiser for Ben Miller and a canned food drive for the Bread of Life Food Pantry. Ben is a local boy from Riverside NJ who has multiple disabilities, and recently competed in the Special Olympics at Rowan University. 
  • Primal Conflict Wrestling presents “A Night To Remember X” on November 19 in Harpers Ferry, WV featuring Tommy Dreamer with their annual non-perishable food drive for Jefferson County Community Ministries Food Pantry. 

TODAY IN PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING HISTORY 11/18: Team WWF vs. The Alliance

CONTACT INFORMATION

​

Daily Update: Survivor Series, ROH in the UK, Thatcher returns home

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

THE ROUND-UP

The latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

AUDIO 

We’re looking for reports on tonight’s NXT show in Boston at the Agannis Arena and the ROH show in Liverpool, UK (Adam Cole & Young Bucks vs. Briscoes & ?, Bobby Fish vs. Will Ospreay for TV title, Jay Lethal vs. Chris Sabin, Dalton Castle vs. Marty Scurll, Christopher Daniels vs. ?, Lio Rush vs. Frankie Kazarian, Joe Hendry vs. Donovan Dijak) to [email protected].

TNA IMPACT AT 8 P.M. TONIGHT ON POP TV

NEW JAPAN WORLD TAG LEAGUE 2016 OPENS TONIGHT AT KORAKUEN HALL AT 4:30 A.M. EASTERN TIME ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

  • Teruaki Kanemitsu vs. Hirai Kawato
  • Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma & Jushin Liger & David Finlay vs. Yoshitatsu & Billy Gunn & Kushida & Ryusuke Taguchi
  • Katsuyori Shibata & Yuji Nagata & Tiger Mask vs. Seiya Sanada & Evil & Bushi
  • Kazuchika Okada & Hirooki Goto & Tomohiro Ishii & Yoshi-Hashi vs. Kenny Omega & Bad Luck Fale & Chase Owens & Bone Soldier
  • Manabu Nakanishi & Henare vs. Ray Rowe & Hanson
  • Brian Breaker & Leland Race vs. Yujiro Takahashi & Hangman age
  • Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima vs. Tama Tonga & Tanga Roa
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi & Juice Robinson vs. Tetsuya Naito & ?

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 11/7/16; California wrestling regulation in 1978

In 1977, Roy Shire’s northern California territory was doing its best business of the entire decade, but it wasn’t offering the usual Roy Shire style of booking with Roy Shire style workers (smaller big bumping blond heel on top) on top. Needing a break and new ideas, he brought in Bob Roop as the booker, who brought in Kevin Sullivan with him…click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: November 21, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: UFC 205 reviewed, Vader given 2 years to live, more

Pro wrestling, celebrities, politics, divisiveness and the election are the lead story in the new issue of the Observer.

Also, look at UFC 205 in depth, with a look at records, ticket demand, and all of the fights.

A look at the key things to watch at Survivor Series, ticket demand for Survivor Series vs. NXT vs. Raw next week, the stipulations and the update on the matches.

Have an in-depth look at the Jon Jones case from all angles and why the arbitrators ruled against Jones. Plus, look at the drug he claimed he used, his defense, why it wasn’t accepted, questions regarding his defense, how the arbitrators viewed things, how this affects the potential penalties for Brock Lesnar, why the punishment isn’t completed yet and what’s next for the light heavyweight division. Finally, a look at what’s next for Jon Jones including the match he is having soon and the Jones reaction to everything.        

An update on WrestleMania weekend, why changes were made by WWE and how the independent situation is, as well as WWE making a decision for 2017 regarding PPV and why, Hulk Hogan return, NXT changes, more on Royal Rumble weekend, new WWE Network show ideas and plans, WWE top star of the past gets married to another former WWE performer, injury updates, John Cena update and when he’s back, plans for December hour shows and December PPV shows.

In this issue, take a look at the Smackdown announcing crew decision, the reaction to Charlotte vs. Sasha Banks at Hell in a Cell and the finish, more on international stars that WWE has come after, how the WWE video game is doing, department changes, names at the most recent WWE tryouts, why WWE’s value dropped $330 million in five weeks and what it means, most-viewed shows on the WWE Network, what wrestler dominates the list, Raw vs. Smackdown and Mascara Dorada talks his WWE signing… click here to continue.

ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer, or by using PayPal directing funds to [email protected]. 

Rates in the United States are $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 [email protected]. 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 choose one free classic issue, or two free classic issues with a 40-issue subscription.

WON BACK ISSUE:October 25, 1999: WWF No Mercy review, first Nitro with Vince Russo, more – The new era of WCW television began on 10/18 in Philadelphia, with Vince Russo and Ed Ferrara’s first Nitro. There was no mistaking the fingerprints even if viewers didn’t have that fact drummed into their heads from early in the show. Far more detailed work was done in scripting the show then at any Nitro in recent memory and possibly ever… click here to continue.

THURSDAY NEWS UPDATE

ROH begins its three-show U.K. tour tomorrow in Liverpool, with shows on Saturday in Leicester and Sunday in London at York Hall.

Timothy Thatcher has gotten clearance and has flown home to California. He suffered a severe concussion on Saturday’s Evolve show against Drew Gulak, and had to stay in New York because he was unable to fly. Evolve has also announced these new matches:

*12/10 in Queens, NY

  • Chris Hero vs. Dick Togo
  • Cody Rhodes vs. Ethan Page
  • 12/11 in Melrose, MA
  • Ricochet vs. Matt Riddle
  • Darby Allin & Peter Kaasa vs. Jaka & Chris Dickinson

WWE

  • Regarding the story on the WWE Network and marketing plans in the new Observer, WWE has said that not everyone who cancels will be offered a free month. The policy is that if you cancel the subscription and never have received a free month in the past, that you will be offered a free month. We’re told the policy is that if you have in the past received a free month, that offer will not be given. 
  • This is a really great article on the WWE Network.
  • The names of the other new plaintiffs in the concussion lawsuit against WWE that were not listed in the new Observer are David Silva (Sylvano Sousa), John Jeter, Charles Scaggs (Too Cold Scorpio/Flash Funk) and Charles Wicks (Chad Wicks). 
  • James Ellsworth has contacted indie promoters that he’s taking no new dates which means he’s either signed or about to sign a WWE contract.
  • They will be taping one episode of NXT at the Smackdown tapings this coming Tuesday in Ottawa.
  • Kane and Dolph Ziggler on the Fox Business Channel can be seen here.

UFC

  • A story on UFC owner Ari Emanuel and Patrick Whitesell and future plans is here.
  • Here is a note on Miesha Tate telling her corner she doesn’t want to fight anymore.
  • Bruce Buffer explains the announcement after the Woodley vs. Thompson fight.

VARIETY

  • E! announced a third season of WAGS. Barbie Blank, the former WWE Kelly Kelly, is a cast member of that show. 
  • There’s been a lot of photos showing Samantha Diaz, who fights on tomorrow’s Invicta show on Fight Pass, who cut off a lot of her hair today to make weight.
  • There is a Lucha libre show on 1/27 in Memphis at En El Marcdaito with Drago & Aerostar vs Mini Laredo & Blue Angel as the main event.
  • CZW on Saturday at Flyers Skate Zone in Voorhees, NJ has a 4 p.m. women’s show with Leva Bates vs. Su Yung for the Spirit title as the main event, plus Jade, Taeler Hendrix, Britt Baker, Renee Michelle, Lufisto and Mercedes Martinez appearing. At 8 p.m. they have a men’s show headlined by Matt Tremont & Jeff Cannonball vs. Josh Crane & Dale Patricks, plus Jonathan Gresham vs. Danny Havoc for the CZW title, and Sami Callihan, Homicide and more.
  • ACH will appear for 12 dates with CWE in January.
  • The annual CMLL bodybuilding contest takes place on Wednesday at 1 p.m. Eastern time and it’ll be streamed live on the CMLL YouTube channel.
  • Bolt Brady from Austin, TX has signed with NWL Kansas City and will use the name Blaine Meeks.
  • Carnaval de Lucha on 1/29 in Scarborough, ONT at the Variety Village Gym.
  • Rock Solid Wrestling on 11/26 in Lively, ONT at the Lively District Secondary School
  • Evolve and the FTW Wrestling Academy in College Point, NY will be hosting a Dick Togo seminar, teaching training, getting booked in Japan, how to call a match in Japan and differences in Styles on 12/9.
  • Ten athletes, mostly wrestlers and weightlifters from the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, have been stripped of medals based on retesting of urine samples using more modern methods. There were 98 old samples from 2008 and 2012 that came back as failed tests using new methods. Among those stripped were silver medalists Khasan Baroev of Russia in men’s 264 pounds Greco-Roman, and Vitaliy Rahimov of Azerbaijan in Men’s 132 pound Greco-Roman.
  • Konnan’s podcast with Diego Sanchez, Shane Helms and Juventud Guerrera is here.

TODAY IN PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING HISTORY 11/17: Shawn Michaels wins the World Heavyweight title

CONTACT INFORMATION

​

November 21, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: UFC 205 reviewed, Vader given 2 years to live, more

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Conor McGregor, in breaking more records and becoming the first person to hold championships in two different weight classes at the same time in UFC history, has become both the greatest asset and the biggest threat of any fighter in history to UFC management.

After drawing what is expected to be his fourth consecutive 1 million plus purchased pay-per-view, and being the headliner in a show that destroyed the company gate record, now has both management and three different weight classes somewhat on ice.

After McGregor captured the lightweight title from Eddie Alvarez in a shockingly one-sided butchering on 11/12 at the company’s debut event in Madison Square Garden, the dual champion gave a lot of implied threats.

With challengers waiting in two different weight divisions, McGregor talked about having a child coming next year and saying he doesn’t know if he wants to raise a child as the son of a celebrity, acting like he may just walk away after a year where it’s claimed he’s earned $40 million (Let’s just say it’s healthy to be skeptical about that figure).

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

Several Raw wrestlers scheduled to appear on tonight’s SmackDown

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Tonight’s SmackDown from Wilkes-Barre, PA will feature at least some Raw involvement coming off the SmackDown appearances last night on Raw.

Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, Nia Jax, Bayley, and Alicia Fox were all sent to the show, likely to lead to a confrontation with the SmackDown women’s team and help build that match up.

Many expected the key Raw talents like Kevin Owens, Chris Jericho, Braun Strowman, Seth Rollins, and Roman Reigns to appear on tonight’s show, but we have not heard if they are in Wilkes-Barre.

Undertaker and Edge are the promoted guest stars on the show, with this being SmackDown’s 900th episode. Undertaker’s appearance is likely to tease a new direction for him. Edge will be doing a Cutting Edge segment with an interview with Team SmackDown of A.J. Styles, Dean Ambrose, Shane McMahon, Randy Orton, Bray Wyatt, and James Ellsworth.

Steve Khan will have live coverage of tonight’s show starting at 8 p.m. ET.

Raw ratings up for Survivor Series go-home show

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Raw last night, built around appearances of Brock Lesnar, Bill Goldberg, Shane McMahon, and Daniel Bryan in preshow promotion, did 2.87 million viewers, a number that would be the second highest of this football season, trailing only Goldberg’s debut.

It was up four percent from last week, although it didn’t start out quite as high as the taped show from Glasgow, Scotland, but maintained its audience much better.

Raw went head-to-head with the New York Giants vs. Cincinnati Bengals on Monday Night Football. The game did 10.72 million viewers, down from the game the prior week which did 11.21 million.

Overall, Raw was ninth for the night on cable, trailing the NFL game and the SportsCenter that followed, as well as trailing all of the evening lineup on the Fox News Channel.

The SmackDown crew that appeared on the show wasn’t announced ahead of time, and flew in from Spain, where they had worked the day before.

The three hours were:

8 p.m.. 2.96 million viewers
9 p.m.  2.93 million viewers
10 p.m. 2.74 million viewers

Daily Update: WWE Network, Joey Styles fired, HHH on McGregor

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

THE ROUND-UP

The latest from the F4W Staff

Tony Nese is headed to WWE, officially…

NEWS

RECAPS

OPINION

LAST WEEK

HOUSE SHOWS

TONIGHT

Bryan and I will be back tonight with Wrestling Observer Radio covering Raw, as well as more on the Ashley Massaro story, Conor McGregor, Joey Styles and more.  You can send questions for the show tonight to [email protected].

We’re looking for reports on the WWE Raw show tonight in Buffalo with Superstars matches and dark matches and anything else not evident on the live show to [email protected]. 

We’re also looking for your thoughts on UFC 205, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected].

Raw is in Buffalo. It’s the gome-home Raw for Survivor Series, featuring guest appearances by Brock Lesnar, Paul Heyman and Bill Goldberg for a face-to-face confrontation, as well as appearances by Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan to build the Raw vs. Smackdown series of events. In addition, there will be a great debate with Mick Foley & Stephanie McMahon vs. Daniel Bryan & Shane McMahon on the WWE Network for those who think three hours isn’t long enough for wrestling tonight. It’s being called “The State of the WWE Universe.” 

NEW JAPAN IN SINGAPORE AT 6 A.M. EASTERN TIME ON NEW JAPAN WORLD TOMORROW

  • Juice Robinson vs. David Finlay
  • Jushin Liger & Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Rocky Romero & Baretta
  • Tomohiro Ishii & Gedo vs. Tama Tonga & Tanga Roa
  • Hirooki Goto vs. Tomoaki Honma
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi & Togi Makabe & Kushida vs Tetsuya Naito & Seiya Sanada & Bushi
  • Kazuchika Okada & Yoshi-Hashi vs. Kenny Omega & Yujiro Takahashi
  • Evil vs. Katsuyori Shibata for the Never Open weight title

Smackdown will be on Tuesday from Wilkes-Barre, PA, for the 900th episode of the show, which will include the return of The Undertaker and the Cutting Edge interview segment with Edge interviewing  AJ Styles, Dean Ambrose, Shane McMahon, Randy Orton and Bray Wyatt. Dolph Ziggler vs. The Miz for the IC title is also on the show.

NXT runs Wednesday night at The Theater in Madison Square Garden with Shinsuke Nakamura & Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano vs. Samoa Joe & Scott Dawson & Dash Wilder as the main event.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 11/7/16; California wrestling regulation in 1978

In 1977, Roy Shire’s northern California territory was doing its best business of the entire decade, but it wasn’t offering the usual Roy Shire style of booking with Roy Shire style workers (smaller big bumping blond heel on top) on top. Needing a break and new ideas, he brought in Bob Roop as the booker, who brought in Kevin Sullivan with him…click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: Nov 14, 2016; Donald Trump elected President, massive UFC 205 preview

Pro wrestling, celebrities, politics, divisiveness and the election are the lead story in the new issue of the Observer.

Also, look at UFC 205 in depth, with a look at records, ticket demand, and all of the fights.

A look at the key things to watch at Survivor Series, ticket demand for Survivor Series vs. NXT vs. Raw next week, the stipulations and the update on the matches.

Have an in-depth look at the Jon Jones case from all angles and why the arbitrators ruled against Jones. Plus, look at the drug he claimed he used, his defense, why it wasn’t accepted, questions regarding his defense, how the arbitrators viewed things, how this affects the potential penalties for Brock Lesnar, why the punishment isn’t completed yet and what’s next for the light heavyweight division. Finally, a look at what’s next for Jon Jones including the match he is having soon and the Jones reaction to everything.        

An update on WrestleMania weekend, why changes were made by WWE and how the independent situation is, as well as WWE making a decision for 2017 regarding PPV and why, Hulk Hogan return, NXT changes, more on Royal Rumble weekend, new WWE Network show ideas and plans, WWE top star of the past gets married to another former WWE performer, injury updates, John Cena update and when he’s back, plans for December hour shows and December PPV shows.

In this issue, take a look at the Smackdown announcing crew decision, the reaction to Charlotte vs. Sasha Banks at Hell in a Cell and the finish, more on international stars that WWE has come after, how the WWE video game is doing, department changes, names at the most recent WWE tryouts, why WWE’s value dropped $330 million in five weeks and what it means, most-viewed shows on the WWE Network, what wrestler dominates the list, Raw vs. Smackdown and Mascara Dorada talks his WWE signing… click here to continue.

ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer, or by using PayPal directing funds to [email protected]. 

Rates in the United States are $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 [email protected]. 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 choose one free classic issue, or two free classic issues with a 40-issue subscription.

WON BACK ISSUE:October 18, 1999; Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Death of Gorilla Monsoon, Droz paralyzed, more – Bob “Gino” Marella, who under the classic ring name Gorilla Monsoon was a fixture in the pro wrestling world for four decades, passed away officially at about 6:15 a.m. on 10/6 at his home in Mooresville, NJ at the age of 62… click here to continue.

Monday News Update​​​​​

The backlash to Joey Styles got bigger today as both CHIKARA and Beyond Wrestling dropped his as an announcer.

The WWE Network as an experiment sent out a ton of e-mails to former network subscribers offering them free from now until 1/31, meaning Survivor Series through Royal Rumble. We’ll have more on this in the next Observer. 

HHH, who was at MSG on Saturday night, pushed that Conor McGregor would be great for WWE.  “He could come over. He’s got it all, man, he’s got the personality, the skills, the talk. He’s an entertainer for sure.” He said he’s got smaller guys than McGregor who are stars. He compared it to Floyd Mayweather working with Big Show.

For the 11th anniversary of the death of Eddy Guerrero, Konnan did a podcast with Vickie Guerrero, Rey Mysterio Jr. and others.

For Raw tonight, the advance is much stronger than in the last several weeks likely due to Bill Goldberg and Brock Lesnar being advertised, as well as Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon. For the State of the WWE Universe segment which will be on the WWE Network after Raw, with Bryan & Shane vs. Stephanie & Mick Foley, Renee Young will host. 

WWE

  • WrestleMania tickets go on sale Friday, but there will be a presale that starts Wednesday at 10 a.m. One code is TWEETS. There will be lots of codes available over the next few days.
  • WWE is advertising tomorrow’s show as “The Undertaker’s first time back in a WWE ring since he defeated Smackdown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon.”  
  • The WWE Network has added about 100 new episodes of Smackdown from the 00s.
  • Dwayne Johnson will be appearing on Jimmy Kimmel tonight on ABC.  He’s likely there to promote Moana. (thanks to Jon Southerland)
  • The WWE has been heavily pushing that Steve Corino came in as a guest instructor to the Performance Center this past week.  Corino is under contract to ROH until 12/31 and has agreed to do the Wrestle Kingdom and New Year’s Dash broadcast the first week of January in Tokyo.
  • Also new on the network will be a show called Top 15 Memorable Survivor Series moments and a Randy Savage collection.
  • NXT on Wednesday will be a one hour hype show for Takeover since they have no new shows in the can. They’ll be taping one or two shows in Toronto on Saturday before Takeover for airing in upcoming weeks.
  • John McHale from The Soup did a book signing on Sunday in Naperville, IL. He was asked about WWE and said that while hosting The Soup, the wrestlers would come on and kill it in one take and that some of the biggest stars in Hollywood would need multiple takes. He noted he especially loved working with Jerry Lawler. 
  • The new season of Total Divas starts on Wednesday night on E!
  • HHH announced an NXT house show on 12/15 in Riverside, CA. Tickets go on sale Monday at 10 a.m. 

UFC

  • Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz ended up in the same spot in New York after the show Saturday night. The short version is nothing happened and they never interacted.
  • UFC 205 got two million searches on Google on Tuesday. That’s a big number, but not anywhere near the record of more than 11 million for the Ronda Rousey vs. Holly Holm fight. 

Predictions for UFC 205:

  • Josh Nason won the night going 6-2 (Nason’s “A” sample has been colleced and is being tested…)
  • Mike Sawyer, John Pollock and Steve Juon were 5-3
  • Mike Sempervive, myself, Ryan Frederick, David Bixenspan and Frontrow Brian were 4-4
  • Paul Fontaine was 2-6 

VARIETY

  • All Pro Wrestling from Friday night in Pacifica, CA before 600 fans: Jacob Fatu b Levi Shapiro, Synn & Papo Esco b Johnny Dynamo & Derek Slade, Karl Fredricks b Matt Carlos, JR Kratos b Vinny Massaro, Will Hobbs & Marcus Lewis b Luster the Legend & Bison Braddock to win the APW tag titles, Boyce LeGrande b Colt Cabana, Will Cuevas b Rik Luxury to win the Internet title in a no DQ match, Cody Rhodes b Joey Ryan, MVP b Jeff Cobb to keep the APW title. The crowd went nuts for everything in the Rhodes vs. Ryan match.
  • WrestleMerica from Friday night in Barnesville, GA before 250 fans: Scotty Beach b Ox Haney, Zane Stevens b Isaish Raines, Cameron Jackson b Iceberg, Fry Daddy b Stunt Marshall, Adam Rose & Tyson Dean b Matt Gilbert & Bailey Mannix with help from The Bunny. Colt Cabana comes in for a 12/10 show. (thanks to Kris Zellner)
  • On 12/3, Pacific Northwest wrestlers are doing a benefit show for Colten Howell, who was bullied in school due to being born with severe birth defects.  All proceeds are going to the Seattle Children’s Hospital and Colten. The show will be at Evolve Fitness in Seattle.
  • Bushwhacker Luke Williams will be at the IWF show at the IWF Center in Nutley, NJ on Saturday night.
  • Davey Richards appears for Tier 1 Wrestling against Rude Boy Riley for their world title on 12/11 at Noon in Queens, NY at Club LaBoom.
  • All Star Wrestling November Nightmare on 11/25 in Surrey, BC at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds with Nick Rogers (former WWE developmental wrestler) vs. Alexander Hammerstone and Jeff Cobb vs. Kenny Lush.
  • Acclaim Pro Wrestling on 12/10 at the SPK Dom Polski in Ottawa, ONT.

Shimmer results from yesterday in Berwyn, IL:

Volume 89

  • Sonya Strong b Heather Monroe
  • Angie Skye b Kate Carney
  • Cherry Bomb (Allie) b Solo Darling
  • Thunderkitty b Taeler Hendrix
  • Nixon Newell b LuFisto
  • Mia Yim (Jade) b Kennadi Brink
  • Kimber Lee b Samantha Heights
  • KC Spinelli & Xandra Bale b Christian Von Ererie & Hudson Envy
  • Jessicka Havok b Allysin Kay (Sienna)
  • Nicole Matthews won four-way over Candice LeRae, Kay Lee Ray and Rhia O’Reilly
  • Shazza McKenzie b Shayna Baszler in a no DQ mach
  • Tessa Blanchard & Vanessa Kraven b Evie & Heidi Lovelace to win tag team titles
  • Kellie Skater b Cat Power to win tag titles

        McKenzie needed nine stitches for a cut in the back of her head in the match with Baszler and couldn’t do her scheduled match later.

Volume 90

  • Marti Belle b Sonya Strong
  • Samantha Heights b Nevaeh
  • Melanie Cruise b Keira Hogan
  • Cherry Bomb b Leva Bates (Blue Pants)
  • LuFisto b Solo Darling
  • Kay Lee Ray b Nixon Newell
  • Tessa Blanchard & Vanessa Kraven b KC Spinelli & Xandra Bale to retain tag titles
  • Mia Yim won four-way over Allisyn Kay, Evie and Kimber Lee
  • Shayna Baszler b Heidi Lovelace
  • Saraya Knight b Nicole Matthews in a bunkhouse brawl
  • Mercedes Martinez b Kellie Skater to regain the title

Told best matches of the weekend with Evie & Lovelace vs. Ray & Yim, Martinez vs. Skater, Mickie James & O’Reilly & Knight vs. Matthews & Kimber Bombs, McKenzie vs. Baszler and Ray vs. Newell. (thanks to Martin Bentley)

  • CMLL from Saturday night at Arena Coliseo in Mexico City before 2,000 fans:  Leono & Sensei b Camorra & Cholo, Comandante & Dallys & Marcela b Jarochita & Sanely & Skadi, Blue Panther Jr. & Fuego & The Panther b Cuatrero & Okumura & Sanson, Angel de Oro & Blue Panther & Drone b Sam Adonis (brother of Corey Graves) & Vangellys & Bobby Z, Dragon Lee & Valiente & Volador Jr. b Euforia & Niebla Roja & Rey Bucanero-DQ, Ultimo Guerrero b Caristico via low blow. (thanks to Kris Zellner)
  • Friday night in Tijuana at Auditorio Municipal has a cage match where the loser gets their head shaved or loses their mask with Bestia 666, Damian 666, Dr. Wagner III, El Hijo de L.a. Park, Histeria, Nicho and Rey Mysterio Heredero.
  • Beer City Bruiser will headline a CWE tour from 1/16 to 1/21 with shows in Regina, Moosomin, Virden, Gladstone, Winnipeg and Thunder Bay.
  • NWA Mid South from Saturday night in Dyresburg, TN:  Rosko b Jeremy Moore, Rob Conway b Jakob Edwinn, Josh Lewis b Austin Tyler Morris, Heidi Katrina b Amazing Maria, Greg Anthony b Jordan Cage, Tim Storm NC Matt Riviera for NWA title. Gary Michael Cappetta came in as a special guest ring announcer for the main event.
  • Absolute Intense Wrestling on 11/25 in Cleveland at Our Lady of Mt Carmel has Shayna Baszler vs. Hideo Lovelace for the women’s title, Karlee Perez (Catrina) vs. Space Monkey as well as Zack Sabre Jr. appears.
  • Best in the West TV from last night in Fresno: Marcus Ericks b Toxic Trent, Diablo Azteca b Big B to keep West Coast title, Wiseguy b Ricky Vendetta to retain Best in the West title. (thanks to Jon Southerland)
  • Rob Van Dam has a comedy / Survivor Series party on Sunday at Jimmy’s Famous Seafood presented by MCW. The show starts at 5 p.m.with Van Dam performing and meeting and doing photos and autographs. After the show, they will be airing Survivor Series. Tickets are at missiontx.com with GA $25 and $60 for VIP tickets which includes premium seating, early admission, a photo with RVD, an autographed 8×10 and an event T-shirt.
  • Northeast Wrestling made Fox News.

HOLIDAY CHARITY EVENTS

We always like to list different Toys for Tots events that pro wrestling promotions around the country are doing. 37 events are scheduled or been held so far: 

  • Pro Wrestling King returns to Century Center, 120 S. Saint Joseph St, South Bend, IN on November 18. Non perishable item are being collected for the Food Bank of Northern Indiana. For your non perishable donation, receive $2 off the price of an adult admission ticket. 
  • Reno Wrestle Factory presents Headlock on Hunger on Saturday, November 19 with a 7:00 pm bell time at the Edward C. Reed High School, 1350 Baring Blvd, Sparks, NV to benefit The Food Bank of Northern Nevada. Admission is five cans of food. 
  • NCW and Henderson County Toys for Tots presents “A Night To Give” on Saturday, November 19 at 7 PM at the Hedrick- Rhodes VFW Post 5206, 900 N Main St, Hendersonville, NC. Seven big matches and four title matches. Doors open at 7 pm and bell time is 8 pm. Proceeds from this event go to provide toys for local children. Henderson County Toys for Tots will have a special concession stand that night with all proceeds going to the Toys for Tots. 
  • Tickets prices are $10 for Adults or $5 plus an unwrapped new toy of equal or more value. Children ages 6-14 are $5. Children 5 and under are free with an accompanying adult. 
  • Cross Roads Wrestling returns on November 19 to Riverside, NJ at 300 Rancocas Avenue, for “Fastlane to Pain”, which will serve as a fundraiser for Ben Miller and a canned food drive for the Bread of Life Food Pantry. Ben is a local boy from Riverside NJ who has multiple disabilities, and recently competed in the Special Olympics at Rowan University. 
  • Primal Conflict Wrestling will be doing its annual food drive at “A Night To Remember X” on November 19 in Harpers Ferry, WV featuring Tommy Dreamer.
  • Appalachian Mountain Wrestling comes to the Sherman Neace Athletic Center in Hazard, KY on November 24 (Thanksgiving night) for a show, and will be collecting toys for needy kids. 
  • All Star Wrestling/West Virginia returns to Madison, WV on Black Friday (November 25th) at ASW Black Friday Holiday Havoc. Santa will be taking donations for Toys for Tots. 
  • NOVA Pro Wrestling presents “Paradise By The Dashboard Light” at the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia, 8900 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax, VA with a 8:00 pm bell time, to benefit FACETS Toy Drive, serving northern Virginia. The show features CZW World Champion Jonathan Gresham, Ring of Honor’s Donovan Dijak, and Chris Hero. 
  • Vancouver Island Pro Wrestling presents “Headlocks for Hunger” on November 26 at the Departure Bay Activity Center in Nanaimo, BC, VIPW will be collecting for the local Loaves and Fishes food bank. With each 3 pieces of non perishable food items you will receive a ticket for the draw of our basket put together by our local partners! Including 2 tickets to every VIPW event for 1 year. 
  • On Point Wrestling returns on December 3 at the Masters of the Mat 2 event in Williamstown, NJ. #OnPointWrestling is once again honored and proud to team with the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation for a Toys For Tots drive! They ask all fans in attendance to bring at least 1 brand new, unwrapped toy with you to the show. They hope all will do our part to help give back, and make sure children less fortunate have a gift on Christmas this year. 
  • MCW Pro Wrestling will hold “Seasons Beatings” on Saturday December 3 (moved from the usual post-Christmas week to tie in with Toys for Tots) as a Toys for Tots show. 
  • Xtreme Intense Championship Wrestling presents the annual Hardcore With A Heart on Sunday, December 4 (5:30 pm bell time) at The Imperial House, Clinton, MI benefiting the homeless in metro Detroit. Already signed is a 6 man tag team war featuring “The Purge” vs The Monroes and “GQ” Gavin Quinn. Plus much more to be announced soon. Please assist by donating canned goods at the event. 
  • Dynamo Pro Wrestling will hold shows on both Saturday, November 19th at the Douglas Club in Wood River, IL and on November 26th at the Ready Room in St. Louis, MO, collecting Toys for Tots. The company will also be collecting toys for the Tots for Tots from Monday, November 7th through Wednesday, December 7 at our November events as well as several additional locations throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area. 
  • Crossfire Wrestling returns to the Merritton Community Centre 7 Park Avenue St. Catharines, ON for “JINGLE BELL BRAWL V” Saturday December 3, 2016 5pm Bell Time with a special Double Main Event. Partial Proceeds will go to The Niagara Peninsula Children’s Foundation. 
  • NWA Texoma presents a benefit show for House of Hope- Blossom on December 3 at the Blossom Elementary School in Blossom, TX. 
  • American Premier Wrestling in Statesboro, GA presents BRAWL 25, a Toys for Tots show at the Statesboro STEAM Academy, Statesboro, GA on December 3. 
  • Pure Wrestling Association presents “Spirit of the Season” on December 3 at the Alpine Club in Kitchener, Ontario. Please bring a new, unwrapped toy and PWA will give you two colour posters. 
  • The Delaware/South Jersey based East Coast Wrestling Alliance has Toys for Tots V scheduled for December 3 at the Woodbury Heights Community Center, Woodbury, NJ. 
  • Brew City Wrestling will run its annual Headlock for Hunger on December 9 at the Columbus Club of West Allis – 1800 S. 92nd St. in West Allis, WI . The show features a food drive for the Hunger Task Force of Greater Milwaukee. Fans are asked to bring two nonperishable food items. 
  • Live Pro Wrestling comes to the Knights of Columbus, 222 Queenston Road, Hamilton, ON on Friday, December 9 to benefit Caleb Davies, a local boy with Schwartz-Jampel syndrome. 
  • The originator of Toys for Tots in the Delaware Valley area, United Wrestling Coalition, presents its annual Toys for Tots show on December 10 in Wrightstown, NJ. In the nearly 20 years they have held these shows, UWC has collected well over 18,000 toys for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots campaign. 
  • Northeast Wrestling returns to the NEW Arena (40 Peck Road) in Bethany, CT on Saturday, December 10 at 7:00 pm. Northeast Wrestling will again have a Toys for Tots collection in cooperation with the Marine Corps Reserve. 
  • Dynamite Championship Wrestling presents Chairs, Ladders, & Toys for Tots on December 10 at the Milford Community Center, 105 NE Front St, Milford, DE . 
  • DJ Hyde has agreed again to do the annual Toys for Tots collection (in conjunction with the Marine Corps Reserve) for the twelfth year in a row at Combat Zone Wrestling’s 18th annual Cage of Death on December 10 at the Flyers Skate Zone in Voorhees, NJ. Details to come. Announced thus far is Danny Havoc vs. Rickey Shane Page.
  • Ring Wars Carolina will hold a benefit for North Carolina Baptist Men’s Association Disaster Relief on December 10, which rebuilt local areas destroyed by Hurricane Matthew. 
  • Chinlock Wrestling comes to Kingston Gospel Temple, 2295 Princess Street, Kingston, ON on Saturday, December 17 (7;00 pm bell time) with a night of professional wrestling in support of Kingston Youth Diversion, other local charities. 
  • Elite Canadian Championship Wrestling presents its annual Wrestling For Hunger show in Port Coquitlam, BC on December 17 at the Elks Hall #49, 2272 Leigh Square, Port Coquitlam, BC. 7:30 pm bell time (doors open at 7:00 pm). 
  • Insane Wrestling Alliance presents Santa Slam II on December 17th at The American Legion Post 250 Middleburg, FL. The promotion seeks to surpass its total of 135 toys collected in 2015. 
  • Wrestling for a Cause has a December 17 show scheduled. Charity to be benefitted to come. 
  • Great Canadian Wrestling returns to Oshawa, ON on December 27 to support Harmony Creek Community Food Bank. 

TODAY IN PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING HISTORY 11/14: Big Show wins the WWF title

CONTACT INFORMATION

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October 25, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: WWF No Mercy review, first Nitro with Vince Russo, more

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

The new era of WCW television began on 10/18 in Philadelphia, with Vince Russo and Ed Ferrara’s first Nitro. There was no mistaking the fingerprints even if viewers didn’t have that fact drummed into their heads from early in the show. Far more detailed work was done in scripting the show then at any Nitro in recent memory and possibly ever.

Time will tell, but after the first show, my feeling was that when Nitro was in its heyday with the good undercard wrestling climaxing with the star power matches on top, it was a far better three hour show than this was. However, this was better than the majority, but not all, of the recent Nitro shows. The throwing so many angles at people burns out the audience faster than wrestling matches do, and by late in the show, the crowd reactions were similar to Raw, in that the crowd was dead for the wrestling. This show was very entertaining for the first hour and entertaining still for the second hour. By the third hour, even though there was nothing “wrong” with the show, it was evident this style of booking doesn’t translate well into the three hour format. Fortunately, it appears most likely if not a certainty that Nitro will be cut back to two hours in January.

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

Tony Nese signs with WWE; Drew Gulak update

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Image: Gabe Sapolsky

Tony Nese has officially signed a new deal with WWE in an angle shot last night at the EVOLVE show in Joppa, MD.

The segment was dark because it involved William Regal, who offered Nese a contract at the show and he signed it. This took place after the broadcast ended. They did an EVOLVE farewell to Nese at that point.

Nese had been working regularly for the company including multiple appearances on Raw, but had not yet been signed. With the cruiserweight show starting on November 29th, the company was back being aggressive in adding new contracted talent.

Regal said that more talent would be signed, which led to a loud “Bro” chant in regard to Matt Riddle, who EVOLVE is building around being its top star right now.

Drew Gulak, the other non-contracted wrestler who has been appearing regularly on Raw in cruiserweight matches, was also offered a contract. We don’t have confirmation that he signed, but the expectation was that he would.

Linda McMahon reportedly under consideration for Secretary of Commerce

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Linda McMahon, the wife of Vince McMahon and a former President of WWE, is under strong consideration for the role of Secretary of Commerce it was reported today by NBC Connecticut.

The story listed sources both close to McMahon and the transition team of President-elect Donald Trump.

Trump on Friday had announced a transition team that would include future Vice President Mike Pence, Newt Gingrich, and Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama. Trump has already announced Reince Priebus as Chief of Staff and Breitbart’s Stephen Bannon as Chief Strategist and senior counselor.

The McMahons were major contributors to Trump’s campaign, although Linda McMahon heavily campaigned at first for Chris Christie to win the nomination, but later switched her allegiances to Trump when Christie bowed out and supported Trump.

The McMahons have a long history of working with Trump, dating back to the fourth and fifth WrestleMania, and later Trump did appearances on Raw and was the key figure in drawing a pro wrestling record PPV number in 2007 with his hair up against Vince McMahon’s hair in the Battle of the Billionaires at WrestleMania with Bobby Lashley representing Trump and Umaga representing McMahon.

UFC 205 live results: Eddie Alvarez vs. Conor McGregor

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Preew by Ryan Frederick

Welcome to F4WOnline.com’s live coverage of UFC 205: Alvarez vs. McGregor, eminating from Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York.

This is the much anticipated debut of the UFC in New York, and they are bringing the most stacked card in company history for the Octagon’s first visit to famed Madison Square Garden, capping off a night of action with the biggest draw in company history looking to make history.

In the main event, UFC Featherweight Champion Conor McGregor looks to become the first fighter to hold championships in two divisions at the same time as he challenges Eddie Alvarez for the UFC Lightweight Championship. McGregor is coming off two high-profile fights with Nate Diaz while Alvarez makes his first title defense after knocking out Rafael Dos Anjos in July.

In addition, there are two other championship bouts. UFC Welterweight Champion Tyron Woodley makes his first title defense against top contender, Stephen Thompson, winner of seven straight fights. Woodley knocked out Robbie Lawler to win the title at UFC 201 in July, while Thompson is getting his title shot on the heels of a dominant win over Rory MacDonald.

UFC Strawweight Champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk makes her fourth title defense against fellow Polish strawweight, Karolina Kowalkiewicz, in the third title fight on the card. Jedrzejczyk last fought in July, successfully defending against Claudia Gadelha, while Kowalkiewicz is coming off a decision win over Rose Namajunas in July. Both women are undefeated in their professional careers, but Jedrzejczyk holds a win over Kowalkiewicz in an amateur bout.

The main card also has a middleweight bout as former champion Chris Weidman takes on Yoel Romero, and Miesha Tate battles Raquel Pennington in women’s bantamweight action. The most stacked prelims of all-time includes featherweights Frankie Edgar and Jeremy Stephens doing battle as well as top lightweight contender Khabib Nurmagomedov taking on Michael Johnson.

We’re looking for your thoughts on the show, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbe in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected]

Follow along with our live coverage of the event beginning at 7 PM eastern time with preliminary action all the way thru the main card.

We are looking for your thoughts on the event so leave your thumbs up, thumbs in the middle, or thumbs down along with a best and worst fight to [email protected].

Some additional coverage:
– UFC 205 Observer Panel Picks & Preview
– UFC 205 DFS Playbook

By Dave Meltzer

UFC FIGHT PASS PRELIMS | 7 PM ET/4 PM PT

> Liz Carmouche (#9, 10-5, 2-3 UFC) vs. Katlyn Chookagian (#14, 8-0, 1-0 UFC)
Women’s Bantamweights

The place is fairly empty at this point.  More than a Las Vegas crowd but not like a lot of first-time markets.  Carmouche is ripped, more than most of the guys.     

First round:  Carmouche with low kicks.  Chookagian landed a right., Carmouche back with a right.  Carmouche with a low kick and a right and a takedown.  Carmouche is in side control  Chookagian back up with minimal damage.  Carmouche trying for another takedown.  Carmouche has her against the fence.  High slam by Carmouche with 1:05 left.  Carmouche is just holding her down.  Fans chanting Ole for no reason.  Carmouche with some short elbows.  Carmouche 10-9

Second round:    Carmouche has her and trying to throw her.  Both landed knees.  Chookagian broke the clinch.  Chookagian with a low kick.  Carmouche took her down with a back suplex.  She moved to side control.  Carmouche with short elbows.  Chookagian regained guard and wants a triangle.  Carmouche with some short punches.  The crowd is starting to boo them.  Carmouche is staying busy but they could stand them up.   Chookagaian up.  Knee by Chookagian.  Left by Chookagian.  Chookagian whiffed on a combo.  Right by Chookagian landed.  Low kick by  Chookagian.  Carmouche’s round 20-18.

Third round:  Chookagian dropped her with a great head kick.  Carmouche back up.  The crowd exploded.  Knee by Chookagian.  Carmouche going for a takedown.  Chookagian momentarily got behind her but Carmouche turned her into the fence.  Knee by Carmouche.  Chookagian landed a combo.  Big right by Chokagian.  Chookagian landed solid punches now.  Carmouche is bleeding from the nose.  Carmouche took her down which drew a groan from the crowd.  Carmouche is holding her down.  Chookagian up and Carmouche threw a knee.  Chookagian broke free.  Head kick by Chookagian.  Low kick by Carmouche. Chookagian in with punches.  Low kick by Carmouche.  Good right by Chookagian.  Carmouche shot for a takedown but doesn’t have it.  But she’s taking seconds off the clock.  Chookagian’s round but Carmouche should win 29-28.

Scores:  29-28 Chookagian 29-28 Carmouche 29-28 Carmouche.   

> Jim Miller (27-8 1 NC, 16-7 1 NC UFC) vs. Thiago Alves (21-10, 13-6 UFC)

Catch weight of 162.5

Alves missed weight by 6.5 pounds. 

First round:  Knee by Alves.  Miller with a left.  Miller in with an uppercut.   Miller landed a punch and took Alves down off a kick.  Miller is working to get his back.  Alves scrambled up.  Left kick to the body by Miller.  Both landing now with Alves landing a good knee.  Right by  Alves and head kick by  Alves.  Alves came on strong at the end but 10-9 Miller.

Second round:  Body kick by Alves.  Body kick by Alves.  He tried another and Miller tried to take him down off it.  Alves defended the takedown.  Miller with a blast double leg takedown.  Miller cradled him on the ground.  Miller is keeping him down.  There was a USA chant.  Miller landed a few punches as Alves got up.  Miller with a left.  Alves with a right.  Body kick by Alves.  Punch and knee by Alves.  Alves missed a spinning backfist.  Alves landed the backfist.  Miller is bleeding.  Close round. 20-18 Miller.

Third round:  Body kick by Alves.  Mller slipped.  Alves landing punches and a body kick.  Both swinging.  Miller hit the blast double again.  That could clinch him the fight.  Alves back up.  Alves with a body kcik.  Miller got another takedown.  Miller got his back.  Alves almost got up but Miller wrestled him back down.  Miller tried a guillotine and Alves slipped out and on top.  Alves landed some elbows and punches from the top as the round ended.  Another close round.  Miller 30-27.

Scores:   30-27, 29-28 and 30-27 for Miller    

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> Vicente Luque (10-5-1, 3-1 UFC) vs. Belal Muhammad (10-1, 1-1 UFC)
Welterweights

First round:  Luque dropped him with a left hook and landed a few brutal shots on the ground before it was stopped.   1:19′

Luque said he dropped 30 pounds for the fight.

> Rafael Natal (#14, 21-7-1, 9-5-1 UFC) vs. Tim Boetsch (19-10, 10-9 UFC)
Middleweights

First round:  Boetsch landed a right as Natal went for a takedown.   Boetsch is the one moving forward.  Natal missed a spinning backfist.  Trading punches and Boetsch got the better of it.  Body kick by Natal.  Boetsch dropped him with a right hook  that knocked Natal flying and finished him on the ground.  It was weird.  It was like Natal wasn’t himself at all.  3:22

Boetsch credited the win to the Irish Hand Grenade Marcus Davis for the win.  Joe Rogan and Boetch said the first punch early shook up Natal and he was tentative from there.

> Khabib Nurmagomedov (#2, 23-0, 7-0 UFC) vs. Michael Johnson (#6, 17-10, 9-6 UFC)
Lightweights

First round:   Johnson throwing early.  He landed a nice left.  He’s landing good punches on Khabib.  He’s got Khabib hurt now.  Johnson landed a hard left.  Johnson blocked the takedown attempt.  But Khabib powered him down into side control   USA chants  Khabib with lefts.  Now he’s dropping elbows  and throwing hard punches on the ground.  Khabib dropping more elbows.  Big punches by Khabib.  He’s got his back and throwing more punches.  Khabib 10-9.  The crowd went nuts giving both a standing ovation after the round.   

Second round:  Johnson landed a left.  Left to the body by Johnson.  Khabib landing punches now and tied him up.  Johnson got away from the takedown attempt.  Johnson blocked another takedown,.  Knee and punch and Johnson sprawled.  Johnson going for a guillotine but Khabib popped out and is on top.  Khabib immediately passed to side control and throwing punches.  He’s got a crucifox position on Johnson and punching.  More punches by Khabib.  Khabib with hard lefts from the top.  Now Khabib has back position and is throwing a ton of punches.  More punches from side position.  Now he’s throwing hard rights.  10-8 Khabib’s round so 20-17 after two.

Third round:  USA chant to start the round.  Both throwing punches.  Khabib took him down again.  The crowd booed.  Khabib is landing punches again from that position.  Khabib is trying for a finish with punches but Johnson can take his shots.  Johnson tried to kick off the cage to reverse.  Now Khabib is working for a Kimura and got the tap.  Very interesting because his win was more dominant than Ferguson but Ferguson is a more entertaining fighter  2:31

Khabib said I want to stay humble but I have to talk.  I show the crazy power the UFC PR is.  He cut a promo on Conor and the crowd stared to boo him.  He wanted to face the Irish chicken, said
Irish only six million, Russia 150 million.  He then talked Russian.  He got great heat.  The crowd hated him.  He said Joe Rogan knows MMA for 20 years and asked Rogan if he desreved a title shot.  Rogan said he deserved it which the crowd didh’t like.

> Frankie Edgar (#2, 20-5-1, 14-5-1 UFC) vs. Jeremy Stephens (#7, 25-12, 12-11 UFC)
Featherweights

First round:  Edgar got the biggest pop so far.  The place is pretty packed now, I’d say 90-95%.  Stephens looks 15 pounds heavier in the cage.  Edgar tried a takedown and Stephens sprawled.  Low kick by Stephens.  Edgar moved in for a takedown but Stephens disengaged.  Body kick by Edgar.  Knee by  Stephens.  Low kick by Stephens.  Edgar with a two punch combo.  Let’s Go Frankie chant pretty loud.  Edgar with a front headlock and throwing knees.  He’s working for the takedown and not getting it.  Edgar slammed him  but Stephens right baacck up.    Edgar slammed him again but Stephens up.  Stephens poked Edgar in the eye and a time out was called.  Stephens with punches.  Edgar 10-9 but closer than you’d think.

Second round:  Stephens complained of a low blow.  Edgar with a right.  Jumping kick by Stephens.  Body kick by Edgar.  Low kick by Edgar.  Edgar got a momentary takedown .  He got a back slam takedown.  Stephens right back up again.  Edgar in with punches.  Good right by Edgar.  Edgar with punches.  Stephens with a great kick to the chin and  Edgar went down.  Edgar is hurt.  Stephens with a right.  Stephens going for the finish.  Another right by Stephens.   Stephens with a left.  Hard left by Stephens.  Let’s go Frankie chants.  Stephens with a right.  Edgar back with a combo, and got the takedown and got a guillotine.  Stephens out of it.  What a great round.  Edgar on top.  Loud Frankie chants.  He’s going for the guillotine again.  Edgar landed punches from the top late.  10-9 Stephens for 19-19 after two.  Standing ovation for the round.

Third round:  Let’s go Frankie chants.  Stephens threw a kick and Edgar used it to take him down.  Stephens working for a  Kimura but Edgar out of trouble.  Edgar elbowing the ribs.  Edgar staying on top.  Edgar trying to work for a choke.  Edgar with a back suplex slam.  Edgar is behind him working for a choke again.  Stephens up with 2:13 left.  Big right by Stephens.  Edgar went for a takedown and couldn’t get it.  Edgar with a left.  Edgar with a right.  Uppercut by Stephens.  Both throwing and Stephens landed some good shots and Edgar back as the fight ended.  Edgar 29-28.  The crowd gave them a standing ovation again.

Scores:   30-27, 30-27 and 29-28 for Edgar.

Edgar said he wants to be on the Brooklyn show.

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> Miesha Tate (#1, 18-6, 5-3 UFC) vs. Raquel Pennington (#8, 8-5, 5-2 UFC)
Women’s Bantamweights

First round:  Tate didn’t get nearly the reaction she usually gets.  Tate with a right.  Pennnington landing jabs.  Pennington hurting her with punches.  Rocky chant.  Tate landing punches to the body and head and working for a takedown.  Pennington lifted Tate up with a guollotone.  It was crazy.  Tate tried to kick off the cage.  Tate finally go the takedown.  Pennington back up.  Pennington looks like she wants to do the old pump handle move.  That’s a pro wrestling joke.  Nothing much happening and crowd starting to get restless.  Tate had her back.  Tate did control the positioning but Pennington did more damage.  Hard to score, 10-9 Pennington.

Second round:   Pennington with a nice right.  Left by Pennington.  Anohter left by Pennington.  Penningotn landed solid shots.  Tate with lefts.  Knee by Tate from the clinch.  Tate trying for the takedown.  Knee by Tate.  Both throwing punches.  Pennington got behind Tate.  Tate throwing elbows.  Crowd is bored by this fight.  Pennington landing punches from the clinch.  Tate with knees and Pennington with body shots as they’re in the clinch.  Body shots by Pennington.  Both landed punches as the round ended.  Pennington 20-18.

Third round:  Both the rounds were close so it’s anyone’s fight.  Tate tried to pull guard to get it to the ground.  She almost got an armbar.  Pennington landing punches from the top.  Tate again working for an armbar.  Pennington landing punches from the top.  Tate now trying for a triangle but doesn’t have it.  Tate now going for a leglock.  She tried a heel hook but didn’t get it.  They’re in a clinch and Pennington is landing some short punches.   Pennington took her down and is throwing more punches.  Rare boring fight from Tate.  Pennington landing a lot of punches late.  Pennington 30-27.

Scores:   29-28, 30-27 and 30-27 Pennington.  Bad time for a loss for Tate.

Tate announced her retirement after.  She said it’s not her time anymore and she’s been around for a long time and she couldn’t pull it off.  

> Chris Weidman (#2, 13-1, 9-1 UFC) vs. Yoel Romero (#4, 12-1, 7-0 UFC)
Middleweights

First round:  This is a really big fight because a strong Weidman win can make him a New York superstar.  Not to mention he’ll probably get a title match with a win.  Romero is a freak athlete, but he’s also 39 years old.  They showed Bisping watching the fight.  USA chant to start.  Hard body kick by Romero.  Weidman tried a takedown but not hard, more diversion.  Body kick by Weidman.  Ole chants.  Weidman took him down once but Romero back up.  Body kick by Weidman.  Body kicks by Weidman. Another takedown by  Weidman and Romero back up.  Low kick by Weidman.  Left by Romero.  Romero with lefts.  Body kick by Romnero.  Weidman took him down and got his back.  Weidman 10-9.

Second round:  The referee wiped Vaseline off Romero’s back at the start of the round.  Left by Romero.  Left by Romero.  Body kick by Weidman.  Knee by  Weidman.  Romero claimed an eye poke after the knee.  Weidman in on the single but gave it up to land a head kick.  Romero took Weidman down and got his back after Weidman got up.  Romero with another takedown.  Weidman escaped and Romero took him down again.  Romero has his back on the ground.  Romero’s round so 19-19.

Third round:  Boyd kick  by Weidman.  Romero killed him with a flying knee that nailed Weidman in the left eye and and pounded on him and finished him.  That’s not a good thing for UFC.  Romero is strutting around the ring like he’s a foreign military soldier saluting the crowd.  The crowd didn’t even boo him.  They were just stunned.  The two hugged.  :24  The crowd was eerily quiet when this ended.

Romero said he wanted the belt.  Joe Rogan said that Romero will be challenging for the title next.  Michael Bisping said he wouldn’t face Romero.  Bisping gave Romero the thumbs down and then flipped him off with both hands.  Romero kept saying “I love you Mike, see you soon, boy.”  Romero said you see now the real champion.

> Joanna Jedrzejczyk (C, 12-0, 6-0 UFC) vs. Karolina Kowalkiewicz (#2, 10-0, 3-0 UFC)
UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship

First round:  Joanna with low kicks.  Ole chants.  Joanna with a combo.  Both landing.  Nice combo by Joanna.  Karolina landed some punches.  The Irish are singing to entertain themselves.  Joanna with another combo.  Joanna 10-9

Second round:   Karloline pushed her against the fence and went for a takedown but didn’t get it.  Joanna with a flurry.  Karolina working for a takedown.   Joanna has her against the fence and threw a knee.  Front kick by Joanna.  Spijnning backfist by Joanna.  Joanna 20-18.

Third round:  Joanna with a knee and punches.  Joanna outlandig her.  Arolian landed a right.  The crowd is so quiet for this fight except a few chants having nothing to do with the fight.  It’s like this is Raw from last Monday.  Body kick by Karolina.  Karolina with a floury.  Joannan back  and landed a body kick and knee.  Elbow and punches by Joanna.  Trading punches.  Joanna 30-27.   Some boos at the end.   I can’t tell you how little the people care about this fight.

Fourth round:    Joanna with a few kicks and they are back against the fence.  Karolina with elbows.  Spinning backfist by Karolina.  Karolina hurt her bad with a right to the nose.  Both are trading.  Both trading some more.  Karolina landed a big right.  Karolina is landing big rights.  Joanna took her down but Karolina back up.  Joanna looking at the clock.  Karolina with more punches from close range.  Joanna landed aan elbow.  Karolina landed a good right.  Trading punches.  Joanna seems recovered now.  Backfist by Karolina.  Joanna tried the same.  Joanna with a combo.  Both traded punches.  Hard knee by Joanna.  Joanna got good shots In late in the round.  The crowd completely turned and gave both a huge ovation.  Karolina’s round 39-37 Joanna.

Fifth round:  Good combo by Joanna.  Karolina with punches and Joanna with an elbow.   Joanna using her kicks to keep Karolina at a distance by Karolina got in and landed a punch.  Front kick by Joanna.  Joanna landing more punches.  Joanna with a left.  Karolina back with punches.  Joanna with solid punches now.  The crowd came alive.  Karolina with a spinning punch and Joanna back with punches.  Joanna landed punches and elbows.  Knee by Joanna.  Body kick by Joanna.  Joanna 49-46.  After all that, the whole place is standing.  The fourth round turned the crowd around.

Scores:  All three had it 49-46 for Joanna.

Joanna was charming, said she wasn’t hurt in the fourth round.  The crowd cheered Karolina a lot after the fight.  Karolina said Joanna was the best in the world.  She said she’s proud she gave a good fight and the crowd cheered big. 

> Tyron Woodley (C, 16-3, 6-2 UFC) vs. Stephen Thompson (#2, 13-1, 8-1 UFC)
UFC Welterweight Championship

First round:  Body kick by Thonpson.  Thompson threw a kick, Woodley countered with a right and took him down.  Woodley with body shots.  Woodley  with a lot of short punches on the ground to smother him .  He land hard body shots late, bloodied him with elbows and landed a hard shot at the horn.  10-9  Woodley, almost a 10-8.

Second round:  Thompson landed some punches and Woodley tied him up.  Thompson turned him around and then Woodley turned him back around.  Spin kick to the body by Thompson.  Left by Thompson.  Right by Thompson.  Thompson with punches.  Thompson landing more.  Woodley with a nice right.  Body shot by Thompson.  Another body shot by Thompson.  Woodley with a nice right.  Thompson’s round so 19-19 after two.

Third round:  Side kick by Thompson.  Woodley moved forward with punches.  Woodley moved forward and landed again.  Ole chants.  Head kick by Woodley.   Low kick by Thompson. Thompson moved in with punches. Good right by Thompson.  Left by Woodley.  Left by Thompson and landed more punches.  Woodley moved in but didn’t connect.  Thompson landed a few.  Woodley  with two nice rights late in the round.  Close round.  Thompson’s so 29-28 Thompson after three.

Fourth round:  Thompson in with a few punches.  Woodley dropped him with hard right.  Woodley throwing punches.  Woodley dropped him again with a right and throwing punches on the ground.  Thompson is in trouble.  Woodley is landing shot after shot.  Knees by Woodley and punches.  Woodley going for a guillotine.  Thompson out of it but he’s hurt.  Woodley went for a guillotine again and it’s tight.  Thompson is surviving so far.  Thompson punching back.  The crowd went nuts seeing  Thompson punch back.  He popped out for the biggest pop so far this show.  Wonderboy chants.  Thompson landing big punches late.  This place is now really alive.  10-8 but that comeback could keep it 10-9, but I’ve got 38-37 Woodley after four.  This is going to be very interesting how it’s judged.

Fifth round:    Jumping kick by Thompson.  Body kick by Thompson.  Low kick by Thompson.  Loud Wonderboy chants.  Right and a head kick by Thompson.  Body kick by Thompson.  Spin kick to the head by Thompson.  Left and right by Thompson.  Right by Thompson.  Left and right by Thompson.  Body kick by  Woodley.  Left by Thompson.  Low kick by Thompson.  Woodley landed a right.  Body shot by Thompson.  Left and right by Thompson. Thompson with a left.   Two lefts by Thompson.  Thompson with a good right.  Thompson’s round, I’ve got it 47-47 all.  This could go either way depending on a 10-8 in the first or fourth rounds. 

Scores:  Derek Cleary scored it  47-47, Doug Crosby scored it 47-47, Glenn Trowbridge 48-47 Woodley.  That’s a screw-up, as that’s a majority draw but Woodley would still retain on the draw.  Bruce Buffer later corrected himself a majority draw.  The problem is Trowbridge looks to have given 3 rounds to Woodley and Thompson won three rounds and it came down to 10-8s in round one or four.  Either way, Woodley retains on the draw.

> Eddie Alvarez (C, 28-4, 3-1 UFC) vs. Conor McGregor (C FW, 20-3, 8-1 UFC)
UFC Lightweight Championship

This crowd is now totally electric.  They’re booing the hell out of Alvarez.  Not the number of Irish flags as Vegas but a totally pro-McGregor crowd.  Alvarez is called The Underground King.  I wonder if he knows Sami  Zayn.

First round:  McGregor landed and stumbled.  Low kick by Alvarez.  Body kick by McGregor.  McGregor dropped him with a left and Alvarez back up.  Head kick by Alvarez.  The crowd is really loud.  Alvarez shot for a takedown.  McGregor with a body kick.  Alvarez landed punches and then slipped.  Head kick by McGregor.  McGregor dropped him with a left .  McGregor with punches on the ground.  Now he’s dropping elbows on him.  Alvarez back up.  Loud Conor chants.  Alvarez shot in and McGregor evaded and landed an elbow.  McGregor with a left.   Body kick by McGregor.  Right by McGregor.  Alvarez with body shots.  Alvarez with a body kick.  Alvarez landed a good left.  Body kick by  Alvarez.  McGregor 10-8.

Second round:  Big left by McGregor hurt him.  Alvarez shot for a takedown and it was easily stuffed.  McGregor put his arms behind his back and dared Alvarez a free shot.  Alvarez didn’t do anything.  Body kick by McGregor.  Right and left by McGregor.  Alvarez with a right.  He missed a left and McGregor put him down with a left.  Alvarez working for a takedown.   Alvarez pushing hard and couldn’t get the takedown.  Push kick by Alvarez.  McGregor with a series of punches put Alvarez down and ref John McCarthy waved it off.  McGregor is the first two division champion in UFC history.  It was a left hook, a right, a left and another right that put Alvarez down.  A great combo, all four shots landed hard and McCarthy waved it after two punches on the ground.  3:04 

McGregor wanted his second belt.   McGregor said they’re not on my level,  you need size and reach to beat him.   He kept saying he wants that second belt.  He I’ve ridiculed everyone on the roster, and I’d like to apologize to absolutely nobody.  The place erupted on that one.  Then he had both belts.  He made no big announcement or anything. 

Update on availability of New Japan New Zealand iPPV

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

The New Japan Pro Wrestling “On The Mat” iPPV from New Zealand had to change to an on-demand broadcast and as of Saturday morning, is not expected to be available for another 72 hours.

The company announced late Friday that due to the live quality output not being at the standard they wanted to provide, they made the decision go VOD.

While they initially planned to upload 30 minutes after the show ended, that was not the case. From Sakura Events’ Facebook page:

“Hey faithful fans, We have witnessed a great show! We really want to put it up, however, we are having technical difficulties that we are unable to resolve as quick as anticipated. We expect to be able to deliver the show through Sakuranz.com within 72 hours. We apologize to all the fans, NJPW & Sakura Events for this inconvenience. We know it is worth the wait!”

As of this point, there is not a purchase option on the site. Once available, the show is expected to be a seven day rental for just under $11 US.

The card without spoilers:

– Kenny Omega & IWGP Jr Heavyweight Tag Team Champions The Young Bucks vs. IWGP Heavyweight Champion Kazuchika Okada & Roppongi Vice

– RJ Brewer vs Jay White w/ “Boxing Badboy” Brown Butta Bean as special guest referee

– Tanahashi vs Dalton Castle

– ROH TV Champion Bobby Fish vs. IWGP Jr Heavyweight Champion Kushida vs David Finlay

– Haku Dynasty (Haku, Tama Tonga, Tanga Loa) vs. Nasty Nate (Local Radio DJ), Juice Robinson, Marcus Kool

– Gedo & Yoshihashi vs. Yujiro & Bad Luck Fale

– Jon Strongman w/ Princess Of Flowers vs. El Terrible w/ Ashley Tonga

– Hirooki Goto vs. Paul Sayers

– Henare vs HikuLe’o (The debut of the youngest son of Haku)

Two wrongful death suits against WWE dismissed

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Vanessa Bryant dismissed wrongful death lawsuits against WWE filed by Michelle James, the girlfriend of Matt Osborne, and Cassandra Frazier, the widow of Nelson Frazier Jr. 

Osborne, best known as “Maniac” Matt Borne and the original Doink the Clown, passed away on June 28, 2013, in Plano, TX, from an accidental opiate overdose at the age of 55.

Frazier, who wrestled as Viscera, Mabel and Big Daddy V among other names, passed away due to a heart attack at age 43 while in the shower at his home on February 18, 2014.

In both cases, the lawsuit was a claim that both men suffered brain injuries while working for WWE that in some form led to their early deaths. In both cases, neither wrestler’s brains were examined after death to see if there was an issue with CTE.

Bryant ruled that James didn’t provide facts that would indicate that Osborne had CTE or his overdose death was in any related to that CTE. Frazier was cremated without an autopsy.

She also ruled that a wrongful death action can only be taken by an executor or an administrator, and James, who had a child with Osborne but was not married to him, was neither. She stated that the court may have considered allowing a re-filing of the case using family members but declined to allow it, stating the case would be futile as the lawyers have not plead a plausible cause of action.

With Frazier, the case was dismissed because the planitiffs failed to allege a plausible casual relationship between his death and any wrongful acts by WWE.

Bryant noted that the lawsuit stated that “upon information and belief” both Frazier and Osborne had CTE, but neither lawsuit contained any information where such a belief could be derived. With no diagnosis of either man, she wrote that it was impossible to plausibly allege, much less prove, that either man developed CTE from their tenure working for the company.

She also noted that the complaint failed to establish any link between CTE and Frazier’s heart failure, and the allegation that Frazier could have survived the heart attack if he didn’t have CTE was “another bald and baseless allegation, which the court deems unworthy of the barest measure of credibility.”

While Bryant wrote that lawyer Konstantine Kyros’ “false and misleading statements” were “highly unprofessional,” she did deny the WWE’s request to take sanctions against him regarding these cases.

However, she wrote, “The court admonishes Kyros and his co-counsel to adhere to the standards of professional conduct and to applicable rule and court orders lest they risk future sanctions or referral to the Disciplinary Committee of this court.”

Nov 14, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Donald Trump elected President, massive UFC 205 preview, more

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

After a year with plenty of cute pro wrestling metaphors about the presidential election, Donald Trump, who among his many forays into the entertainment world included drawing the largest PPV number in pro wrestling history and being in the WWE Hall of Fame, is the new President of the United States. That’s a position often referred to as the most powerful leader in the free world.

This terribly divisive election leaves the country with a lot of challenges and uncertainties. It’s sad. A lot of Americans are unaware that for a number reasons, because of being world economic leaders, they are resented in many parts of the world. Unfortunately, this will, if anything, accentuate that feeling with the idea the country voted someone who has insulted minority groups as its president, with the idea that the American majority (even though the actual votes were almost identical and Clinton seems to have barely won the popular vote) had no empathy for its struggling minorities.

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.