Author: Joseph Currier

Joseph Currier is the lead editor of F4WOnline.com, directing daily news coverage and writing articles on professional wrestling. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, obtaining a journalism degree in 2016. Joseph joined F4W during his time at UMass and has now been writing about the industry for nearly a decade. In addition to his work with F4W, Joseph has previously contributed to Sports Illustrated's wrestling coverage. He lives in Massachusetts and is a diehard fan of the Boston sports teams and Liverpool Football Club.

Daily Update: Daryl Takahashi, G1, Johnny Mundo

Posted on by Joseph Currier

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

AUDIO

We’re looking for reports from the WWE Raw show in Hampton, VA, WWE Smackdown show in Wildwood, NJ and NXT in Tampa to [email protected].

NEW JAPAN G-1 CLIMAX TOURNAMENT DAY FIVE FROM MACHIDA CITY GYM ON SUNDAY AT 5 A.M. EASTERN TIME ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

  • Satoshi Kojima & Hiroyoshi Tenzan vs. Michael Elgin & Katsuya Kitamura
  • Juice Robinson & David Finlay & Hirai Kawato vs. Minoru Suzuki & Taichi & Desperado
  • Tama Tonga & Chase Owens vs. Evil & Hiromu Takahashi
  • Toru Yano & Jado vs. Kenny Omega & Yujiro Takahashi
  • Kazuchika Okada & Gedo vs. Seiya Sanada & Bushi
  • Yoshi-Hashi vs. Zack Sabre Jr.
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Yuji Nagata
  • Bad Luck Fale vs. Tetsuya Naito
  • Tomohiro Ishii vs. Kota Ibushi
  • Togi Makabe vs. Hirooki Goto

Sunday has a WWE Raw house show in Sailsbury, MD.

WWE BATTLEGROUND AT 7:30 P.M. EASTERN TIME ON THE WWE NETWORK

  • Jinder Mahal vs. Randy Orton for WWE title in a Punjabi prison match
  • John Cena vs. Rusev in a flag match
  • A.J. Styles vs. Kevin Owens for U.S.title
  • Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Baron Corbin
  • Usos vs. New Day for tag titles
  • Charlotte Flair vs. Tamina vs. Lana vs. Becky Lynch vs. Natalya in an elimination match for a title shot
  • Tye Dillinger vs. Aiden English (pre-show match)
  • Reveal of who has been attacking Breezaengo

Raw will be Monday in Washington, DC. Matches announced are Finn Balor vs. Elias Samson in a no DQ match, Bayley vs. Sasha Banks for a women’s title shot, Dean Ambrose & Seth Rollins vs. The Miz & Curtis Axel & Bo Dallas 2 vs. 3. There is also a Smackdown brand house show in Newark, DE.

NEW JAPAN G-1 CLIMAX TOURNAMENT DAY SIX FROM FUKUSHIMA BIG PALETTE ON TUESDAY AT 5:30 EASTERN TIME ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

  • Togi Makabe & Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Kota Ibushi & Shota Umino
  • Tomoyuki Oka & Katsuya Kitamura vs. Tomohiro Ishii & Yoshi-Hashi
  • Yuji Nagata & Hirai Kawato vs. Tetsuya Naito & Hiromu Takahashi
  • Zack Sabre Jr. & Taichi & Desperado vs. Bad Luck Fale & Yujiro Takahashi & Chase Owens
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi & David Finlay vs. Hirooki Goto & Jado
  • Satoshi Kojima vs. Michael Elgin
  • Tama Tonga vs. Evil
  • Minoru Suzuki vs. Juice Robinson
  • Kenny Omega vs. Toru Yano
  • Kazuchika Okada vs. Seiya Sanada

Smackdown and 205 Live will be Tuesday from Richmond, VA. Announced is Rich Swann & ? vs. TJP & ?

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: Figure Four Weekly 7/17/2017: Mayweather vs. McGregor hype fails to meet expectations

While the superfight between Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor was bound to endlessly be compared to something out of WWE, the grandiose four-show world tour of press conferences to promote it felt more like a parody of pro wrestling. They made stops in Los Angeles, Toronto, Brooklyn, and London in an attempt to get the hype for their boxing match seen in as many relevant media markets as possible.

Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: July 24, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Brock Lesnar UFC return rumors, WWE Battleground preview, more

What exactly is going on with Brock Lesnar is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer.

Look at Lesnar rumors as far as UFC goes, what is and isn’t reality, what steps he has to take before he can be in a match and why he won’t be fighting in UFC any time soon. Look at the UFC and WWE schedules and how murky certain things are, Lesnar’s WWE contract, how this is similar to 2015, as well as looking at potential Lesnar opponents in UFC. Find out how this plays into WWE bookings, with thoughts on SummerSlam, and the booking of SummerSlam and Battleground.

Check out the G-1 Climax tournament, run down the first night, New Japan’s business, the matches coming up this week along with match-by-match coverage and star ratings from Sapporo.

Examine Kurt Angle’s new angle with Jason Jordan, and look at the story, how it doesn’t fit into the original story, fan reaction and long-term potential.

Go in-depth into the Mae Young Classic, the Ronda Rousey involvement, Shayna Baszler push, behind-the-scenes, reactions to it and match-by-match coverage.

Look at a promotion that claims it has gotten $100 million in investment money to start competing on a worldwide basis.

Find out about the cancellation of the weekly version of Talking Smack. Look at the show, what worked, what didn’t work, why it’s continuing in a limited form, and the idea that WWE forgot to tell the hosts the show was being canceled. There is also an update of the latest PPV numbers.

Find out about the Shane McMahon helicopter crash, an update on the negotiations for the Hardys to get the broken gimmick, Bruno Sammartino being honored, Stephanie McMahon being honored, Jinder Mahal talks India market, UFC fighter and WWE star doing their own angle, TV station that aired WWE closes its doors, notes on an upcoming WWE movie release, WWE scouting, upcoming Raw house show lineups, plus the most-watched network shows over the past week and a look at every WWE and NXT arena event over the past week with highlights and business notes.

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: June 26, 2000 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Birth of NOAH, Vince Russo quits WCW, tons of news

Mitsuharu Misawa announced officially the formation of his new promotion, Nippon TV officially announced cancellation of the All Japan television show and Toshiaki Kawada talked about attempting to go to New Japan were highlights of the aftermath of the All Japan split. Misawa held his press conference on 6/16 at Diffa Ariake, the new building in the Ariake suburb of Tokyo, which was built specifically for pro wrestling to replace Korakuen Hall as the small show mecca in the Tokyo area and which, ironically enough, has its first show on 7/1 booked by the All Japan promotion.

Subscribers click here to continue.

SATURDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

  • WWE uploaded a video with all 32 Mae Young Classic participants introducing themselves.
  • Kurt Angle answered a question about how he prepared himself for the Jason Jordan reveal on Raw: “I thought to myself what it would be like to see my son Kody for the first time ever, and didn’t know it for 20 years. I thought if it were real, how would I feel?” He also wrote about Austin Aries’ release: “I’m sure that neither side was happy. Austin is a very very talented wrestler. Love his style.”
  • Dave Meltzer joined Chris Jericho on this week’s episode of Talk is Jericho to reflect on Chris Benoit’s career 10 years after the tragedy and Chris’ despicable actions.
  • NBC News has an article on Jinder Mahal and him wanting to make Indian fans proud.
  • A new episode of “Table for Three” with Renee Young, Lita, and Corey Graves will air after Raw on Monday.
  • Triple H wished Shawn Michaels a happy birthday as Michaels turns 52 years old today.
  • Noelle Foley interviewed Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, Nikki and Brie Bella, and Bayley for Ringside Collectibles while at San Diego Comic-Con.
  • Johnny Gargano tweeted a reflection about getting his first WWE action figure. In a less sentimental post, Tommaso Ciampa wrote: “Step 1: buy my figure Step 2: beat up Johnny’s figure”
  • “Shocking confessions” are the subject of this week’s WWE top 10 list on YouTube.

Pro Wrestling

  • Ratings for this week’s episode of Impact were down, which is probably to be expected a week after the post-Slammiversary show. It averaged 322,000 viewers on Thursday night, down from 374,000.
  • The dispute between Johnny Mundo/Taya and Vampiro is apparently being turned into an angle. At a show for EMW last night, Mundo threw his three AAA titles at Vampiro and teased coming to the next AAA TV tapings if they pay him. (thanks to Chris Aiken)
  • CMLL announced Sam Adonis will face Blue Panther in a hair vs. hair match on August 4th.
  • The fourth G1 show in as many days will take place at the Tokyo Machida Gymnasium overnight. The tournament matches are Togi Makabe vs. Hirooki Goto, Kota Ibushi vs. Tomohiro Ishii, Tetsuya Naito vs. Bad Luck Fale, Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Yuji Nagata, and YOSHI-HASHI vs. Zack Sabre Jr.
  • Daryl, the stuffed cat that Hiromu Takahashi has been carrying around, was ripped to shreds by Fale at this morning’s G1 show. Fale posted an edited tribute video to Daryl, with it ending with him destroying the cat. Kenny Omega tweeted: “An extremely emotional and touching tribute. Bullet Club offers to cover any and all funeral expenses for your… ummm… thing. #RIPDARYL”
  • After an injury scare on an attempted move from the top rope to the floor at AIW’s Absolution show last night, Flip Kendrick updated his status and said that he didn’t have any broken bones and only received a couple of stitches at the ER.
  • Kelly Klein, Bea Priestley, and Scarlett Bordeaux will be debuting for Stardom in October.

UFC/MMA

  • Showtime released the official poster for Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor.
  • McGregor completed the community service requirements that he was given for the bottle-throwing incident prior to UFC 202.
  • BT Sport uploaded a documentary on McGregor in advance of his fight against Mayweather.
  • Ariel Helwani tweeted that there’s been “serious talks” of making Luke Rockhold vs. David Branch as the main event of the UFC’s September 16th show in Pittsburgh. Helwani noted that Yoel Romero has also been mentioned as a potential opponent for Rockhold’s return fight, though Branch is the front-runner.
  • Newsday ran a story about Dominick Cruz being a rising star in the UFC broadcast booth.

Today in Pro Wrestling History: WWF Invasion

F4W Online / Wrestling Observer Vegas Convention Event Info

August 17-21; All times are TBA; Full information on the group Facebook page; Activities subject to change

For ticketing information go to https://f4wvegas.brownpapertickets.com/

  • Thursday: Meet at the High Roller for Bowling at the Link; Party at Carnival Court at Hurrah’s
  • Friday: Kiss Mini Golf tournament at the Rio; Dinner at Texas de Brazil; Suite party (location TBA)
  • Saturday: Burgers with Granny for lunch; Future Stars of Wrestling show featuring Stephan Bonnar & Phil Baron, and co-main events: 3-way match with Leva Bates vs. Mia Yim vs. Hudson Envy, and “Filthy” Tom Lawlor vs. Thomas Santell (f.k.a. Antonio “The Promise” Thomas); NXT viewing party at the Sci-Fi Center
  • Sunday: SUPER CHINA BUFFET DAY at the Wicked Spoon Buffet at 1pm; SummerSlam viewing party at the Sci-Fi Center
  • Monday: Goodbye lunch at Chen Chen at NY NY
  • All website members will also receive a 15% discount on any purchases from the Las Vegas Fight Shop for the entirety of the convention

Texas de Brazil, Wicked Spoon, NXT and Summer Slam will all be sign up and pre-paid events, prices and collection begin in mid July~!

Pro Wrestling Tees is now carrying our latest line of F4W shirts. Support the Empire~! Grab yours today!

CONTACT INFORMATION

​

Alberto El Patron no longer a suspect in Orlando airport incident

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Alberto El Patron is no longer considered a suspect in the domestic violence incident that took place at the Orlando International Airport earlier this month.

As Pro Wrestling Sheet first reported, the Orlando Police Department’s investigation into the incident ended with them finding that only Paige should be charged for domestic battery. That information has been forwarded to the state attorney’s office for review and to decide whether charges will be filed.

Paige had previously claimed that she threw a drink at El Patron and was the one who was held for potential battery charges.

Global Force Wrestling has yet to indicate whether the Orlando PD’s findings mean that El Patron’s suspension will now be lifted. He had been suspended indefinitely until the resolution of the investigation.

WWE’s zero-tolerance policy regarding domestic violence states that Paige would immediately be suspended if she were arrested for such a matter. If she were convicted, she would immediately be terminated.

Daily Update: Battleground, first B Block G1 show, Johnny Mundo

Posted on by Joseph Currier

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

AUDIO

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: Figure Four Weekly 7/17/2017: Mayweather vs. McGregor hype fails to meet expectations

While the superfight between Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor was bound to endlessly be compared to something out of WWE, the grandiose four-show world tour of press conferences to promote it felt more like a parody of pro wrestling. They made stops in Los Angeles, Toronto, Brooklyn, and London in an attempt to get the hype for their boxing match seen in as many relevant media markets as possible.

Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: July 10, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: NJPW in Long Beach reviewed, TNA becomes GFW, tons of news

New Japan’s expansion into the U.S. with the shows over the weekend in Long Beach is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

Look through the business of the show, the positives, the negatives, the complaints about using ex-WWE talent, the U.S. title tournament, views on the U.S. title, as well as the New Japan plans for early 2018 in the U.S.

Read about examples as to why the early success may not lead to long-term success, indications of how well the show did, where the show was the strongest, which wrestlers had the most mainstream interest on the show, the Omega vs. Rhodes dynamic, and all the controversy regarding the announcing is covered. Plus, there is match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results of both the shows.

Check out Impact’s rebranding to GFW, the good and the bad of the Slammiversary show, the interesting politics involved, the debut of DeAngelo Williams as well as match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results.

This issue talks the WWE security breach reported by Forbes, MSG notes, ideas for big events in 2018 in WWE, new TV show idea, Iron men of 2017 plus who never wins and who never loses, lots of updates on the Mae Young Classic, why Randy Orton will be out for a couple of weeks, experiences of a woman on the WWE writing team, plus the most-watched shows on the WWE Network this past week, WWE company market value, and notes on all the WWE and NXT arena events the past week with highlights and business notes.

Also inside, notes on the pending case against Jim Breaks, the death of his ex-girlfriend, and the details of the case, and notes on the career of Vic Faulkner of the Royal Brothers tag team, who passed away this past week.

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: June 26, 2000 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Birth of NOAH, Vince Russo quits WCW, tons of news

Mitsuharu Misawa announced officially the formation of his new promotion, Nippon TV officially announced cancellation of the All Japan television show and Toshiaki Kawada talked about attempting to go to New Japan were highlights of the aftermath of the All Japan split. Misawa held his press conference on 6/16 at Diffa Ariake, the new building in the Ariake suburb of Tokyo, which was built specifically for pro wrestling to replace Korakuen Hall as the small show mecca in the Tokyo area and which, ironically enough, has its first show on 7/1 booked by the All Japan promotion.

Subscribers click here to continue.

WEDNESDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

  • A rematch between Sami Zayn and Mike Kanellis has been added to the card for Battleground. That will be Kanellis’ first match on pay-per-view after signing with WWE. The pre-show will have Aiden English vs. Tye Dillinger, which was also the kickoff match for Backlash in May. A potential resolution in the storyline of who has been attacking Breezango and Carmella threatening to cash-in her Money in the Bank briefcase have also been teased.
  • ABC 7 in New York has some video of Shane McMahon and the pilot of the helicopter that he was in speaking to the media after today’s crash-landing scare.
  • Dave Meltzer appeared on this week’s episode of The Ross Report to discuss the Mae Young Classic, the Kurt Angle/Jason Jordan storyline, Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor, and more.
  • Melbourne City Wrestling released a mini-documentary on Mae Young Classic competitor Dakota Kai (who was formerly known as Evie).
  • Daniel Bryan joked about starting a pirate version of Talking Smack with Renee Young: “Don’t worry folks, next week after #SmackdownLive, @ReneeYoungWWE and I will host a pirate version of #TalkingSmack on TOUT #fakenews”
  • AJ Styles will be the guest on this week’s episode of the Edge and Christian podcast.
  • Today is Jinder Mahal’s 31st birthday and the one-year anniversary of the WWE draft and brand extension.
  • John Cena tweeted a promo urging fans to go to Battleground.
  • Fortune interviewed Stephanie McMahon about how social media helped convince WWE to drop the “divas” name for their women’s division.
  • Charlotte Flair spoke to the Fan Theory podcast about her career, her family, and what’s next for her in WWE.

Pro Wrestling

  • The G1 continues overnight with the first B Block show taking place at Korakuen Hall at 5:30 a.m. ET. It has an interesting styles clash in the main event with Kenny Omega taking on Minoru Suzuki. The full card is:
    Omega vs. Suzuki
    Kazuchika Okada vs. Toru Yano
    SANADA vs. EVIL
    Michael Elgin vs. Tama Tonga
    Satoshi Kojima vs. Juice Robinson
    YOSHI-HASHI & Jado vs. Tetsuya Naito & BUSHI
    Hiroshi Tanahashi & David Finlay vs. Bad Luck Fale & Chase Owens
    Togi Makabe, Yuji Nagata & Tiger Mask IV vs. Hirooki Goto, Tomohiro Ishii & Gedo
    Kota Ibushi & Hirai Kawato vs. Zack Sabre Jr. & El Desperado
  • Hot Topic is adding NJPW Lion Mark and Los Ingobernables de Japon shirts to select locations next month. They plan to expand to all locations in September.
  • Kenny Omega got CM Punk to make a video for a friend of his who lost in the finals of a video game tournament.
  • Johnny Mundo went off on Vampiro over how AAA handled Taya being stripped of the Reina de Reinas title and Sexy Star returning and winning it: “The locker room thinks you, @vampiro_vampiro are a 2 faced lying d*uche bag who believes his own lies- #OfficeStooge -RT if you’re with us”
  • Mundo, Taya, and Drago of AAA will be wrestling at Global Force Wrestling’s house shows in the northeast in August.
  • GFW will be debuting a post-show for Impact with Josh Mathews and Tyrus on their website this week.
  • The Splash Report posted details about a Hulk Hogan biopic script that has yet to find a buyer.

UFC/MMA

  • Jon Jones trolled Daniel Cormier by posting a picture making fun of the weight-cutting issues that Cormier had prior to UFC 210.
  • Jones spoke to FloCombat about facing Cormier and changing the narrative after the issues that he’s had.
  • Michael Bisping responded to Yoel Romero calling him out.
  • Joseph Duffy said that the UFC’s USADA program contributed to him re-signing with the company.
  • Referee Mario Yamasaki stands by his stoppage of the Kevin Lee vs. Michael Chiesa fight.
  • A story on Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of the Russian republic of Chechnya and an MMA promoter, was featured on this week’s episode of Real Sports on HBO. The story spotlighted atrocities Kadyrov’s regime has reportedly committed against gay people and his friendship with MMA fighters and boxers. On the Luke Thomas Show, Karim Zidan discussed covering Kadyrov.

Today in Pro Wrestling History: Minus Five Stars

F4W Online / Wrestling Observer Vegas Convention Event Info

August 17-21; All times are TBA; Full information on the group Facebook page; Activities subject to change

For ticketing information go to https://f4wvegas.brownpapertickets.com/

  • Thursday: Meet at the High Roller for Bowling at the Link; Party at Carnival Court at Hurrah’s
  • Friday: Kiss Mini Golf tournament at the Rio; Dinner at Texas de Brazil; Suite party (location TBA)
  • Saturday: Burgers with Granny for lunch; Future Stars of Wrestling show featuring Stephan Bonnar & Phil Baron, and co-main events: 3-way match with Leva Bates vs. Mia Yim vs. Hudson Envy, and “Filthy” Tom Lawlor vs. Thomas Santell (f.k.a. Antonio “The Promise” Thomas); NXT viewing party at the Sci-Fi Center
  • Sunday: SUPER CHINA BUFFET DAY at the Wicked Spoon Buffet at 1pm; SummerSlam viewing party at the Sci-Fi Center
  • Monday: Goodbye lunch at Chen Chen at NY NY
  • All website members will also receive a 15% discount on any purchases from the Las Vegas Fight Shop for the entirety of the convention

Texas de Brazil, Wicked Spoon, NXT and Summer Slam will all be sign up and pre-paid events, prices and collection begin in mid July~!

Pro Wrestling Tees is now carrying our latest line of F4W shirts. Support the Empire~! Grab yours today!

CONTACT INFORMATION

​

Paige potentially facing battery charges in Orlando airport incident

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Paige could potentially be facing charges stemming from the domestic violence incident with Alberto El Patron that took place at the Orlando International Airport earlier this month.

In a story that was first reported by Pro Wrestling Sheet, detectives at the Orlando Police Department have found that probable cause exists to charge Paige with domestic battery. The information has been forwarded to the state attorney’s office for review and to decide if charges will be filed.

The investigation into El Patron is still ongoing.

After initially claiming that her and El Patron were the ones to get police involved, Paige released a statement on Twitter last week that said she was the one who was held for potential battery charges after throwing a drink at El Patron. Police noted that El Patron was the only suspect listed at that time.

WWE has a zero-tolerance policy regarding domestic violence. The policy states that a performer would immediately be suspended if they’re arrested for such a matter. Upon a conviction, the performer would immediately be terminated. WWE also maintains the right to fine, suspend, or terminate a wrestler if “incontrovertible evidence of such illegal misconduct” is presented to them.

El Patron was suspended by Global Force Wrestling until the resolution of the investigation, though he still holds their Unified World Heavyweight title and isn’t being edited out of episodes of Impact during the suspension.

Shane McMahon uninjured after helicopter makes crash landing into water

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Shane McMahon was rescued after the helicopter that he was traveling in had to make an emergency crash landing in the waters near Gilgo Beach in Long Island, New York this morning.

McMahon and the helicopter’s pilot were safely helped to shore by emergency responders after the helicopter went into the water around 10:30 a.m. ET. It was equipped with floats and both McMahon and the pilot were wearing life jackets. Neither were injured in the landing.

The helicopter departed from Westchester County Airport earlier in the morning. A mayday call was sent out before the crash landing and a commercial flight alerted the Federal Aviation Administration to it.

Both McMahon and the pilot were interviewed by the FAA after the incident and spoke to media in New York.

McMahon was in Birmingham, Alabama for last night’s SmackDown tapings and presumably would have been heading home after the show. He tweeted: “I’d like to thank the man upstairs for looking out this morning & thanks to pilot Mario, Suffolk Co. Marine Bureau & Fire Island Coast Guard”

WWE SmackDown video highlights: The final build to Battleground

Posted on by Joseph Currier

WWE finished building to Battleground on last night’s episode of SmackDown.

Heading into Sunday, AJ Styles & Shinsuke Nakamura teamed against Kevin Owens & Baron Corbin, Rusev stood tall over John Cena, Becky Lynch took on Charlotte Flair, and Jinder Mahal brought the Punjabi Prison to SmackDown.

Elsewhere on the show, Chad Gable reacted to Jason Jordan being revealed as Kurt Angle’s son, Mike Kanellis made his in-ring debut against Sami Zayn, and Breezango continued searching for answers in “The Fashion X-Files: The Truth is not H.”

More coverage from last night —

WWE SmackDown video highlights —

Jinder Mahal brings the Punjabi Prison to SmackDown

Kofi Kingston vs. Jimmy Uso

Renee Young interviews Chad Gable about Jason Jordan and Kurt Angle’s big reveal

Mike Kanellis makes his in-ring debut against Sami Zayn

Rusev stands tall heading into Battleground

Charlotte Flair vs. Becky Lynch

Carmella says that she’ll be paying close attention to Naomi at Battleground

The Fashion X-Files: The Truth is not H

AJ Styles & Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Kevin Owens & Baron Corbin

SmackDown fallout: Aiden English performs a song for Tye Dillinger

SmackDown fallout: The Usos are confident heading into Sunday

SmackDown fallout: Mike and Maria Kanellis are fine with how Mike beat Sami Zayn

Daily Update: SmackDown, Talking Smack, War of the Worlds UK

Posted on by Joseph Currier

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

AUDIO

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: Figure Four Weekly 7/10/2017: What’s next for Samoa Joe?

While the question of whether that was actually a double-turn with Roman Reigns and Braun Strowman was the most interesting question coming out of Great Balls of Fire, the biggest long-term issue may be what’s next for Samoa Joe after his main event with Brock Lesnar. Lesnar vs. Joe offered few surprises, mostly delivering on what everyone thought it would be. Joe was a credible threat to Lesnar (despite having to cheat to get most of his offense) before losing in about six minutes. The match felt like the big fight that it was built up to be and Joe more than held his own.

Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: July 10, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: NJPW in Long Beach reviewed, TNA becomes GFW, tons of news

New Japan’s expansion into the U.S. with the shows over the weekend in Long Beach is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

Look through the business of the show, the positives, the negatives, the complaints about using ex-WWE talent, the U.S. title tournament, views on the U.S. title, as well as the New Japan plans for early 2018 in the U.S.

Read about examples as to why the early success may not lead to long-term success, indications of how well the show did, where the show was the strongest, which wrestlers had the most mainstream interest on the show, the Omega vs. Rhodes dynamic, and all the controversy regarding the announcing is covered. Plus, there is match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results of both the shows.

Check out Impact’s rebranding to GFW, the good and the bad of the Slammiversary show, the interesting politics involved, the debut of DeAngelo Williams as well as match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results.

This issue talks the WWE security breach reported by Forbes, MSG notes, ideas for big events in 2018 in WWE, new TV show idea, Iron men of 2017 plus who never wins and who never loses, lots of updates on the Mae Young Classic, why Randy Orton will be out for a couple of weeks, experiences of a woman on the WWE writing team, plus the most-watched shows on the WWE Network this past week, WWE company market value, and notes on all the WWE and NXT arena events the past week with highlights and business notes.

Also inside, notes on the pending case against Jim Breaks, the death of his ex-girlfriend, and the details of the case, and notes on the career of Vic Faulkner of the Royal Brothers tag team, who passed away this past week.

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: June 26, 2000 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Birth of NOAH, Vince Russo quits WCW, tons of news

Mitsuharu Misawa announced officially the formation of his new promotion, Nippon TV officially announced cancellation of the All Japan television show and Toshiaki Kawada talked about attempting to go to New Japan were highlights of the aftermath of the All Japan split. Misawa held his press conference on 6/16 at Diffa Ariake, the new building in the Ariake suburb of Tokyo, which was built specifically for pro wrestling to replace Korakuen Hall as the small show mecca in the Tokyo area and which, ironically enough, has its first show on 7/1 booked by the All Japan promotion.

Subscribers click here to continue.

TUESDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

  • Tonight’s SmackDown is the go-home show for Battleground. Mike Kanellis will make his in-ring debut against Sami Zayn, there will be a segment with John Cena to build up his flag match against Rusev, Renee Young will interview Chad Gable about the storyline with Jason Jordan being revealed as Kurt Angle’s son, AJ Styles & Shinsuke Nakamura will face Kevin Owens & Baron Corbin, and the Punjabi Prison will be present prior to Jinder Mahal vs. Randy Orton on Sunday.
  • 205 Live has a two-out-of-three falls match with Mustafa Ali facing Drew Gulak. Akira Tozawa has also demanded a rematch against Ariya Daivari after Titus O’Neil stopped their match last night.
  • Jerry Lawler announced that he’ll be appearing on the Battleground pre-show on Sunday and on Talking Smack after the pay-per-view. Renee Young confirmed that she’ll be hosting the show with him. That episode of Talking Smack will be the first since its weekly run ended.
  • Brock Lesnar is advertised for WWE’s house show in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada on September 30th.
  • Taylor Wilde (who formerly wrestled in TNA) tweeted that she was considered for the Mae Young Classic but opted to stay in retirement after suffering an injury during training.
  • Chad Gable wrote a lengthy (and partially in-character) thank you message to Jason Jordan after last night’s reveal and the end of American Alpha.
  • Finn Balor posted a picture of the cut that the guitar shot from Elias Samson gave him last night.
  • India Today has an interview with Jinder Mahal.
  • Dave Meltzer will appear on this Friday’s episode of Talk is Jericho to discuss the Benoit tragedy 10 years later.

Pro Wrestling

  • ROH announced that the main event of their War of the Worlds UK show at York Hall in London on August 18th will be the Bullet Club (Cody, The Young Bucks, Marty Scurll & Hangman Page) vs. Los Ingobernables de Japon (Tetsuya Naito, SANADA, EVIL, BUSHI & Hiromu Takahashi). The main event of the stop in Edinburgh, Scotland on August 20th will be Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian vs. Cody & Scurll.
  • Austin Aries has a new look after departing WWE. He tweeted a picture of himself with a shaved head and no facial hair.
  • Konnan and Rey Mysterio met up with R-Truth after Raw in Nashville last night. James Storm also posted a picture with Bray Wyatt after the show.
  • CEO Gaming released parts one and two of a video continuing the “rivalry” between Kenny Omega and Xavier Woods.

UFC/MMA

  • Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones continued to trade shots on social media ahead of their fight on July 29th.
  • Demetrious Johnson called the problems that he’s had with Dana White a “big misunderstanding” and said that he’s going to sit down with him and talk about them.
  • Bovada now lists Conor McGregor as a less than four-to-one underdog against Floyd Mayweather.
  • Paulie Malignaggi is joining McGregor’s camp as a sparring partner ahead of the boxing match with Mayweather.
  • Cris Cyborg said that there needs to be more than one face of women’s MMA with Ronda Rousey gone.

Today in Pro Wrestling History: Ric Flair wins NWA World title at Beach Blast 1993

F4W Online / Wrestling Observer Vegas Convention Event Info

August 17-21; All times are TBA; Full information on the group Facebook page; Activities subject to change

For ticketing information go to https://f4wvegas.brownpapertickets.com/

  • Thursday: Meet at the High Roller for Bowling at the Link; Party at Carnival Court at Hurrah’s
  • Friday: Kiss Mini Golf tournament at the Rio; Dinner at Texas de Brazil; Suite party (location TBA)
  • Saturday: Burgers with Granny for lunch; Future Stars of Wrestling show featuring Stephan Bonnar & Phil Baron, and co-main events: 3-way match with Leva Bates vs. Mia Yim vs. Hudson Envy, and “Filthy” Tom Lawlor vs. Thomas Santell (f.k.a. Antonio “The Promise” Thomas); NXT viewing party at the Sci-Fi Center
  • Sunday: SUPER CHINA BUFFET DAY at the Wicked Spoon Buffet at 1pm; SummerSlam viewing party at the Sci-Fi Center
  • Monday: Goodbye lunch at Chen Chen at NY NY
  • All website members will also receive a 15% discount on any purchases from the Las Vegas Fight Shop for the entirety of the convention

Texas de Brazil, Wicked Spoon, NXT and Summer Slam will all be sign up and pre-paid events, prices and collection begin in mid July~!

Pro Wrestling Tees is now carrying our latest line of F4W shirts. Support the Empire~! Grab yours today!

CONTACT INFORMATION

​

Three matches set for WWE Raw next week

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Though next week’s episode of Raw probably won’t have the same level of intrigue going into it as last night’s did, WWE has already announced three matches for the show.

Sasha Banks will face Bayley in a match to determine who will challenge for Alexa Bliss’ Raw Women’s Championship at SummerSlam. That was set up last night in a storyline with Banks and Bayley both pleading their cases to Kurt Angle after wins over Bliss in recent weeks.

A two-on-three handicap match between Seth Rollins & Dean Ambrose and The Miz, Curtis Axel & Bo Dallas and Finn Balor vs. Elias Samson in a no disqualification match were the other matches announced for next week. Balor tweeted a picture of a nasty cut that he received from Samson’s guitar shot on Raw.

The show should also feature Angle addressing who will challenge for the Universal Championship at SummerSlam after Braun Strowman interrupted Monday’s number one contender’s match between Roman Reigns and Samoa Joe.

WWE Raw video highlights: Strowman interrupts the main event

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Going into last night’s Raw, it was advertised that Kurt Angle would reveal his big secret and that we would find out who would be challenging Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam.

One of those things came to fruition, with the Angle storyline resulting in him revealing that Jason Jordan is his son. But Braun Strowman returned and attacked both Roman Reigns and Samoa Joe before a winner could be decided in the main event.

Also on the episode, Alexa Bliss took on Bayley in a non-title match, Elias Samson laid out Finn Balor with a guitar shot, and some matches were made for next week’s show.

More coverage from last night —

WWE Raw video highlights —

The Miz and his Miztourage lay out Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins

Bayley vs. Alexa Bliss in a non-title match

Akira Tozawa accepts Ariya Daivari’s challenge

Mustafa Ali & Jack Gallagher vs. Brian Kendrick & Drew Gulak

Big Cass brawls with Big Show

Dean Ambrose & Seth Rollins will face The Miz, Curtis Axel & Bo Dallas next week

Finn Balor vs. Elias Samson

Kurt Angle makes Bayley vs. Sasha Banks in a number one contender’s match for next week

Akira Tozawa vs. Ariya Daivari

Kurt Angle reveals his big secret

The Hardys vs. The Revival

Akira Tozawa demands a rematch against Ariya Daivari on 205 Live

Braun Strowman interrupts Roman Reigns vs. Samoa Joe

Raw fallout: Alexa Bliss isn’t worried about Bayley beating her

Raw fallout: Elias Samson doesn’t regret hitting Finn Balor with his guitar

Raw fallout: The Revival proved that they’re top guys against The Hardys

WWE Network exclusive: Jason Jordan explains how he found out the news about his father

Kenny Omega returning to PWG on second night of BOLA weekend

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Though he won’t be in the tournament itself, Kenny Omega will be making an appearance during this year’s Battle of Los Angeles.

PWG announced tonight that Omega would be teaming with The Young Bucks in a non-tournament match against Penta El Zero M, Rey Fenix & Flamita on night two of BOLA weekend. It will be Omega’s first appearance in PWG since 2015.

In other non-tournament action, Donovan Dijak & Keith Lee vs. Jeff Cobb & Matt Riddle and The Young Bucks vs. The South Pacific Power Trip (Travis Banks & TK Cooper) will take place on night one. Night two will have Ricochet & Matt Sydal vs. Zack Sabre Jr. & Marty Scurll in addition to Omega’s return.

BOLA 2017 will take place on September 1-3. Here are the tournament matches for the first two shows:

Night one —

  • Flamita vs. Ricochet
  • Jonah Rock vs. Zack Sabre Jr.
  • Matt Sydal vs. Penta El Zero M
  • Flash Morgan Webster vs. Marty Scurll
  • Rey Fenix vs. Rey Horus
  • Brian Cage vs. Dezmond Xavier

Night two —

  • Keith Lee vs. WALTER
  • Mark Haskins vs. Travis Banks
  • Matt Riddle vs. Michael Elgin
  • Jeff Cobb vs. Sami Callihan
  • Donovan Dijak vs. Trevor Lee
  • Sammy Guevara vs. TK Cooper

Cody vs. SANADA to main event ROH War of the Worlds UK iPPV

Posted on by Joseph Currier

After announcing that the show would be broadcast on iPPV, it didn’t take long for Ring of Honor to reveal the main event of War of the Worlds UK: Liverpool.

It will be Cody Rhodes defending his ROH World Championship against Los Ingobernables de Japon member SANADA. Rhodes won the title at ROH’s Best in the World pay-per-view last month when he defeated Christopher Daniels.

SANADA will be coming off of his run in this year’s G1 Climax, which ends on August 13th. The War of the Worlds UK iPPV will take place at the Olympia in Liverpool on August 19th, with SANADA’s Los Ingobernables stablemates (Tetsuya Naito, EVIL, BUSHI, and Hiromu Takahashi) also scheduled to appear.

A four-corner survival match with KUSHIDA putting his ROH Television title on the line against Marty Scurll, Dalton Castle, and Hiromu Takahashi is the only other match announced for the Liverpool show as of now.

Daily Update: Mae Young Classic, G1, Conor McGregor

Posted on by Joseph Currier

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

AUDIO

Raw is in Huntington, WV, headlined by John Cena; Smackdown is in Pensacola, FL, and NXT shows in Portland, OR, and Gainesville, FL. We’re looking for reports on all of those shows to [email protected].

Sunday has Raw in Lexington, KY, headlined by John Cena and Smackdown in Tallahassee, FL.

UFC ON SUNDAY FROM GLASGOW, SCOTLAND AT THE SSE HYDRO

Fight Pass at Noon Eastern time

  • Amanda Lemos vs. Leslie Smith
  • Brett Johns vs. Albert Morales

FS1 at 1 p.m. Eastern time

  • Danny Henry vs. Daniel Teymur
  • Galore Bufando vs. Charlie Ward
  • Alexandre Pantoja vs. Neil Seery
  • Bobby Nash vs. Danny Roberts
  • James Mulheron vs. Justin Willis
  • Paul Craig vs. Khalil Rountree
  • Ryan Janes vs. Jack Marshman
  • Paul Felder vs. Stevie Ray
  • Joanne Calderwood vs. Cynthia Cavillo
  • Gunnar Nelson vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio

NEW JAPAN G-1 OPENING NIGHT ON SAPPORO AT THE HOKKAIDO SPORTS CENTER AT 2 A.M. LATE SUNDAY NIGHT EASTERN

  • Satoshi Kojima & Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Jushin Liger vs. Michael Elgin & Juice Robinson & David Finlay
  • Minoru Suzuki & Taichi & Desperado vs. Kenny Omega & Tama Tonga & Chase Owens
  • Seiya Sanada & Bushi vs. Evil & Hiromu Takahashi
  • Kazuchika Okada & Gedo vs. Toru Yano & Jado
  • Yuji Nagata vs. Yoshi-Hashi
  • Togi Makabe vs. Bad Luck Fale
  • Hirooki Goto vs. Tomohiro Ishii
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Zack Sabre Jr.
  • Tetsuya Naito vs. Kota Ibushi

        Some interesting tag matches as the top three are all matches you’d never see on a regular show. Suzuki vs. Omega is to tease their 7/20 singles match main event.

Monday has Raw TV in Nashville. The Kurt Angle mystery is supposed to be solved on Monday night plus Samoa Joe vs. Roman Reigns for the SummerSlam title match is on the show. No Brock Lesnar this week at least at this point. There is also a Smackdown house show in Columbus, GA. John Cena will be on that Smackdown show.

Tuesday has the go-home Smackdown show from Birmingham, AL plus 205 Live. Announced is that they will be bringing the Punjabi Prison to TV, plus Drew Gulak vs. Mustafa Ali in a 2/3 falls match and Jack Gallagher vs. Brain Kendrick are scheduled.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: Figure Four Weekly 7/10/2017: What’s next for Samoa Joe?

While the question of whether that was actually a double-turn with Roman Reigns and Braun Strowman was the most interesting question coming out of Great Balls of Fire, the biggest long-term issue may be what’s next for Samoa Joe after his main event with Brock Lesnar. Lesnar vs. Joe offered few surprises, mostly delivering on what everyone thought it would be. Joe was a credible threat to Lesnar (despite having to cheat to get most of his offense) before losing in about six minutes. The match felt like the big fight that it was built up to be and Joe more than held his own.

Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: July 10, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: NJPW in Long Beach reviewed, TNA becomes GFW, tons of news

New Japan’s expansion into the U.S. with the shows over the weekend in Long Beach is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

Look through the business of the show, the positives, the negatives, the complaints about using ex-WWE talent, the U.S. title tournament, views on the U.S. title, as well as the New Japan plans for early 2018 in the U.S.

Read about examples as to why the early success may not lead to long-term success, indications of how well the show did, where the show was the strongest, which wrestlers had the most mainstream interest on the show, the Omega vs. Rhodes dynamic, and all the controversy regarding the announcing is covered. Plus, there is match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results of both the shows.

Check out Impact’s rebranding to GFW, the good and the bad of the Slammiversary show, the interesting politics involved, the debut of DeAngelo Williams as well as match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results.

This issue talks the WWE security breach reported by Forbes, MSG notes, ideas for big events in 2018 in WWE, new TV show idea, Iron men of 2017 plus who never wins and who never loses, lots of updates on the Mae Young Classic, why Randy Orton will be out for a couple of weeks, experiences of a woman on the WWE writing team, plus the most-watched shows on the WWE Network this past week, WWE company market value, and notes on all the WWE and NXT arena events the past week with highlights and business notes.

Also inside, notes on the pending case against Jim Breaks, the death of his ex-girlfriend, and the details of the case, and notes on the career of Vic Faulkner of the Royal Brothers tag team, who passed away this past week.

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: June 19, 2000 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Goldberg turns heel at Great American Bash, All Japan changes, more

In a week where the entire landscape of the pro wrestling industry is expected to change, the first tree to fall, All Japan Pro Wrestling, at least in the form it has been for the past 28 years, is no more.Tokyo Sports confirmed on 6/12 that the long-rumored split talked about in this publication had started with Mitsuharu Misawa, the President and top star of the company, resigning on 5/28. The news was kept quiet by all parties until the end of the tour and they were hoping to keep it quiet for several more days in an attempt to present a smoother public transition.

Subscribers click here to continue.

SATURDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

  • At last night’s Mae Young Classic tapings, Triple H presented Sara Amato (Sara Del Rey) with a bouquet of flowers and credited her for starting the women’s revolution in WWE. Stephanie McMahon wrote on Instagram: “#ThankYouSara for all of your sacrifices on the independent circuit all around the world, helping pave the way for women’s wrestling, and ensuring its future as the first women’s coach and assistant Head Coach in @wwe. #WeAreNXT #WomensWrestling #maeyoungclassic #WeAreReady”
  • The second round, quarterfinals, and semifinals for the Mae Young Classic were taped last night, with two non-tournament matches being filmed as well. The first four episodes will be uploaded to the WWE Network on August 28th, then the second batch will be available starting on September 4th. The finals will air live on the WWE Network after SmackDown on September 12th. Our JJ Williams has spoilers from the first and second nights of the tapings.
  • Drew Gulak sent an in-character message to the Mae Young Classic competitors.
  • People posted an article on Renee Young and Daniel Bryan tweeting that WWE didn’t tell them about Talking Smack’s cancelation as a weekly series before releasing their statement about it. Bryan claimed: “I come online to support #SamiForSyria and find this out. I’m the GM!!! Nobody tells me anything!!!”
  • The Miz wrote about the end of Talking Smack: “RIP #TalkingSmack I enjoyed the freedom this show gave @wwe talent to showcase what they could do @ReneeYoungWWE brought the best out of all”
  • Mick Foley posted on Facebook about visiting a dying fan named Dillon and Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair taking time out of their day to talk to Dillon during the visit.
  • Mike Mooneyham’s latest article for the Charleston Post and Courier focuses on WWE not turning Roman Reigns heel.
  • The Miami Herald has an article on Stephanie McMahon being honored at the Stuart Scott ENSPIRE Awards.
  • Wired looked at the reasons behind WWE’s recent data exposure.
  • The wildest facial expressions made by wrestlers are the subject of this week’s WWE top 10 list on YouTube.

Pro Wrestling

  • NJPW held its annual pre-G1 Climax press conference last night, which always gets attention for the wrestler’s fashion choices and their reactions to each other. Highlights included Kazuchika Okada and others trying not to laugh at Toru Yano and Kenny Omega’s reaction to Kota Ibushi. NJPW uploaded the full press conference for free on YouTube.
  • NJPW also released the opening video for this year’s G1.
  • What Culture Pro Wrestling announced that Will Ospreay will be facing Rey Mysterio at their Pro Wrestling World Cup show on August 23rd.
  • Dave Prazak was backstage at the Mae Young Classic tapings last night.
  • Wrestle:List interviewed Simon Grimm (the former Simon Gotch) about why he was unhappy in WWE.
  • Shane Helms spoke to Pro Wrestling Sheet about his time with Impact Wrestling and Jeff Jarrett saying that Helms and other agents were let go because they had too many of them.

UFC/MMA

  • Conor McGregor declared victory after his world tour with Floyd Mayweather, saying that he came out on top of all four stops. Mayweather also said it’s obvious that he’s getting in McGregor’s head.
  • Demetrious Johnson is siding with McGregor in his fight against Mayweather and said he hopes McGregor faces the winner of Gennady Golovkin vs. Canelo Alvarez in a boxing match next.
  • Showtime’s Stephen Espinoza said that McGregor’s improv skills are on par with The Rock.
  • McGregor reiterated that he’d like to fight Khabib Nurmagomedov in Russia at some point and said that the trilogy with Nate Diaz is also on his mind.
  • Sarah Moras is asking for donations to fund her fight camp prior to her facing off with Ashlee Evans-Smith at UFC 215 on September 9th.
  • Gegard Mousasi will make his Bellator debut against Alexander Shlemenko at Bellator 185 on October 20th.

Today in Pro Wrestling History: Brock Lesnar stripped of IWGP title

F4W Online / Wrestling Observer Vegas Convention Event Info

August 17-21; All times are TBA; Full information on the group Facebook page; Activities subject to change

For ticketing information go to https://f4wvegas.brownpapertickets.com/

  • Thursday: Meet at the High Roller for Bowling at the Link; Party at Carnival Court at Hurrah’s
  • Friday: Kiss Mini Golf tournament at the Rio; Dinner at Texas de Brazil; Suite party (location TBA)
  • Saturday: Burgers with Granny for lunch; Future Stars of Wrestling show featuring Stephan Bonnar & Phil Baron, and co-main events: 3-way match with Leva Bates vs. Mia Yim vs. Hudson Envy, and “Filthy” Tom Lawlor vs. Thomas Santell (f.k.a. Antonio “The Promise” Thomas); NXT viewing party at the Sci-Fi Center
  • Sunday: SUPER CHINA BUFFET DAY at the Wicked Spoon Buffet at 1pm; SummerSlam viewing party at the Sci-Fi Center
  • Monday: Goodbye lunch at Chen Chen at NY NY
  • All website members will also receive a 15% discount on any purchases from the Las Vegas Fight Shop for the entirety of the convention

Texas de Brazil, Wicked Spoon, NXT and Summer Slam will all be sign up and pre-paid events, prices and collection begin in mid July~!

Pro Wrestling Tees is now carrying our latest line of F4W shirts. Support the Empire~! Grab yours today!

CONTACT INFORMATION

​

Talking Smack to no longer air weekly on WWE Network

Posted on by Joseph Currier

One of the staples of WWE Network original programming is having its broadcast schedule significantly reduced.

WWE issued a statement today confirming that Talking Smack will no longer air weekly and will instead only be shown after SmackDown-exclusive pay-per-views: “We continuously review WWE Network’s programming line-up based on a variety of factors, including viewership and subscriber research. Talking Smack and Raw Talk will air following pay-per-view events, and Tuesday will continue to feature 205 LIVE.”

Talking Smack was one of the elements that helped SmackDown differentiate itself from Raw after last summer’s brand split. With Renee Young and Daniel Bryan as the co-hosts of the show, it furthered storylines and provided an outlet for advanced character development.

The most memorable moment of Talking Smack’s weekly run was a segment that attempted to blur the lines between storyline and reality as Bryan and The Miz got into a heated exchange on the August 23rd, 2016 episode. After Bryan insulted Miz’s in-ring style, Miz dared him to quit and go back to the indies.

When 205 Live debuted on the Network, Talking Smack was moved back an hour and was taped during that show.

WWE announces full list of Mae Young Classic participants

Posted on by Joseph Currier

WWE officially announced the full list of participants for the Mae Young Classic on a “Parade of Champions” broadcast prior to the tapings beginning tonight.

Notably, Serena Deeb will be returning to the company for the first time since being released in 2010. She became a full-time yoga instructor after retiring in 2015 due to concussion issues.

Candice LeRae was also announced for the tournament. She’s one of the most popular women’s wrestlers on the independent scene and has wrestled for promotions like PWG and DDT.

With former UFC fighter Shayna Baszler being confirmed as one of the participants, her friend Ronda Rousey is in attendance at Full Sail University for at least the first night of the tapings.

Each wrestler was listed as representing a country that they’re from or is part of their heritage. Below is the full list of competitors:

United States —

  • Serena Deeb
  • Vanessa Borne
  • Rachael Evers (Rachael Ellering)
  • Sage Beckett (Andrea)
  • Tessa Blanchard
  • Lacey Evans
  • Santana Garrett
  • Nicole Savoy
  • Reina Gonzalez
  • Shayna Baszler
  • Sarah Logan (Crazy Mary Dobson)
  • Bianca Belair
  • Abbey Laith (Kimber Lee)
  • Candice LeRae
  • Miranda Salinas
  • Renee Michelle
  • Mercedes Martinez

New Zealand —

  • Dakota Kai (Evie)

China —

  • Xia Li
  • Zeda

Scotland —

  • Kay Lee Ray
  • Piper Niven (Viper)

Dominican Republic —

  • Marti Belle

Australia —

  • Toni Storm
  • Rhea Ripley (Demi Bennett)

England —

  • Ayesha Raymond

India —

  • Kavita Devi

South Korea —

  • Mia Yim (Jade)

Mexico —

  • Princesa Sugehit

Germany —

  • Jazzy Gabert (Alpha Female)

Brazil —

  • Taynara Conti

Japan —

  • Kairi Sane (Kairi Hojo)

WWE Network interview with Kurt Angle to air after Raw on Monday

Posted on by Joseph Currier

WWE will be following up on the Kurt Angle storyline immediately after Raw goes off the air on Monday.

It was announced today that there would be a live interview with Angle on the WWE Network in the post-Raw time slot next week. Angle has promised that he’ll be going public with information concerning the mysterious text messages he’s been receiving earlier in the night.

Last Monday’s Raw ended with a cliffhanger where Angle was on the phone and told someone to come to the show next week and that he loves them.

WWE has similarly pushed for viewers to switch over to the Network after Raw in the past, including earlier this year when Goldberg addressed the fans about his future in pro wrestling on the Monday after WrestleMania.

In addition to the Angle storyline, Roman Reigns vs. Samoa Joe in a match to determine Brock Lesnar’s challenger at SummerSlam is advertised for next week’s show.