WWE ELIMINATION CHAMBER PPV FROM THE TALKING STICK RESORT ARENA IN PHOENIX AT 7:30 P.M.

• Curt Hawkins vs. Mojo Rawley (preshow match) – Nothing much to this one.  Rawley should win since Hawkins’ job here is to lose.  Rawley is the one who is in need of a breakout performance.
• Dolph Ziggler vs. Apollo Crews & Kalisto – The very idea of this match is ludicrous.  Ziggler is having trouble getting over as a heel, so he’s booked in a position where he’s the underdog battling the odds.  Crews is having trouble getting over as a face, so he’s booked in the ultimate no-win position.  Crews & Kalisto are -1545 favorites. 
• Mickie James vs. Becky Lynch – This could be the sleeper match on the show.  Either one could win but should be good.  Lynch is the -2045 favorite.
• Nikki Bella vs. Natalya – This has been pushed hard on television and both women are over with the crowd.  Natalya is doing an interesting heel character but I don’t think people buy her as a heel.  They may pretend to do so as the match takes place but I don’t think they really believe it.  Still, some of her liens are funny.  Given that Nikki is in a big match at Mania, she probably should win and is a -350 favorite.
• Tag team gauntlet matches for the titles with Jason Jordan & Chad Gable, The Usos, Vaudevillains, The Ascension, Heath Slater &  Rhyno and Tyler Breeze & Fandango – With the Wyatts not a team anymore, the tag team division is weak in the sense none of the teams except American Alpha are pushed seriously.  They need to create a rival for Jordan & Gable, and the best of the bunch is the Usos.  Problem is as we notes on draft day, the only real tag team feud of significant is Jordan & Gable vs. Usos, and it’s been done already recently.  I’d have put the Usos over just to create a chase, but Jordan & Gable are -5100 favorite, so doesn’t look like that will happen.
• Alexa Bliss vs. Naomi for women’s title.  Naomi is a -5075 favorite to get her hand raised. 
• Randy Orton vs. Luke Harper.  Orton is headed to the WWE title match at WrestleMania so he really should win here.  It’s actually a bigger match for Harper, since Orton is a star either way.  Harper is in with a great wrestler and if he can put on a great performance in losing, it’ll help his standing as he’s right now in a point in his career going single that he can go one of two ways.  He probably can’t win, so he has to do the next best thing which is have people talk about him as having put on a great match when it’s over.  Orton is a -4500 favorite.
• Elimination chamber for WWE title:  John Cena, Bray Wyatt, A.J. Styles, The Miz, Dean Ambrose and Baron Corbin – Wyatt is a -8500 favorite.  Basically this is the only result that if Vince McMahon changes it, he has to revamp WrestleMania main event plans as well.  All the other results don’t matter at all in the big picture. (thanks to David Taylor for odds)

        Looking at the show on paper, it looks good, but not really a big marquee shows.  Interest in the Smackdown shows overall have been way down from the Raw shows.  The chamber should be very good, perhaps excellent and Orton vs. Harper should also be strong.  Tag team gauntlet needs 20 minutes or so to work, and aside from Jordan & Gable, the teams aren’t over and haven’t been pushed (well, Rhyno gets a great reaction but that’s more a cult thing as opposed to anything) and there’s a good chance that opens the show.  Ziggler vs. Kalisto & Crews will be good for moves but as a story, it’s swimming upstream.  So a lot here depends on the women.

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• WCPW launch the 2017 Pro Wrestling World Cup in the UK
• UFC 208 live results: Holm vs. de Randamie; Silva vs. Brunson
• Chavo Guerrero Sr. passes away at 68 years old
• NJPW New Beginning in Osaka live results: Naito vs. Elgin

AUDIO

• DragonKing Dark: Divided We Fall 2/12
• DR. KEITH PRESENTS: Just Keep On Truckin’!!! 2/12
• WOR: Death of Chavo Guerrero Sr., New Japan and UFC PPV reviews, Elimination Chamber, more! 2/12
• Wrestling Weekly: Hansen vs. Andre, Rock ‘n’ Roll Express, mailbag 2/10

We’re looking for reports on today’s WWE house show in Fairbanks, Alaska, today’s ROH show in Columbus, OH and last night’s WWE show in Anchorage, Alaska to [email protected].

We’re also looking for your thoughts on tonight’s Elimination Chamber, and yesterday’s UFC 208 and NJPW New Beginning in Osaka, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match for all three shows to [email protected].

WCPW TRUE DESTINY (show took place earlier today at www.fite.tv from Milton Keynes, England

• Pentagon Jr. vs. Drago
• Bea Priestley vs. ? (Tessa Blanchard was pulled from the show due to getting a role in the new movie being filmed on Paige)
• Rampage Brown vs. Primate I Quit match
• Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Travis Banks
• Will Ospreay vs. Ricochet
• Moss & Slater in open challenge for tag titles in a ladder match
• Drew Galloway vs. Joe Hendry for WCPW title
• Kurt Angle vs. Alberto El Patron

Besides Elimination Chamber, WWE Raw has a house show on Sunday in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Raw will be on Monday from Las Vegas. Neither Bill Goldberg nor Brock Lesnar are scheduled for the show. There is also a Smackdown brand house show in Oakland, CA at the Oracle Arena.

Smackdown will be Tuesday from Anaheim, CA.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 2/6/2017: How WWE got it right with Goldberg this time

Over a decade after their match at Madison Square Garden was nearly booed out of the building, it’s remarkable that Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar will once again be a marquee match on a WrestleMania card in 2017. Their collision course that became inevitable once Goldberg was booked to dominate Lesnar at Survivor Series took the next step forward on last week’s Raw as Paul Heyman challenged Goldberg to the rematch on behalf of Lesnar… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 13, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: NJPW New Beginning review, WWE Fast Lane/Elimination Chamber cards, more

An update on the WWE’s WrestleMania plans and then two PPV’s leading to WrestleMania is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.  We update the situation with the Seth Rollins vs. HHH proposed match, new matches that have changed due to injuries, update injured talent and a new proposed championship match on the Mania show, as well as more on different planned matches.

We also look at plans for both Elimination Chamber and Fast Lane.

We’ve got full coverage of the New Beginning in Sapporo show headlined by Kazuchika Okada vs. Minoru Suzuki, with match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results and business notes. We look at the build up angle and the story behind the main event, and this week’s show in Osaka.

We look at the big coup by WWE Studios working with Dwayne Johnson, a current WWE star being talked about for doing MMA, Kurt Angle talks wrestling in WWE, NXT Takeover Orlando notes, and lots of thoughts on the XFL documentary and key points that were not in.

We also have more WWE WrestleMania week plans, more on Mike Adamle and his battle against dementia and his background, update on a lot of WWE injuries, a surprise coach at the Performance Center and update on where that come from, and another WWE movie project.

We also have tons of notes on the wrestlers brought to the Performance Center this past week as well as other athletes for tryouts, including who they are and their backgrounds including some very unique prospects. We also look at the most-watched shows of the past week on the network as well as a rundown of all the WWE and NXT arena events this past week with both highlights and business notes.

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: January 17, 2000 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Death of Gary Albright, Observer awards, more

Gary Albright, a former world class amateur wrestling star and headliner on many big shows as a pro in Japan, died after collapsing in the ring at an independent show in Hazleton, PA before about 100 fans on 1/7. He was 36. The preliminary reports from the corner attributed the death of the 6-foot-4, 340-pound powerhouse to a heart attack, technically speaking a combination of severe atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus and acute pulmonary edema… Subscribers click here to continue.

SUNDAY NEWS UPDATE

Bryan and I will be back late tonight covering Elimination Chamber, more notes from UFC last night and other news.  We have a show up right now covering Chavo Guerrero, NJPW New Beginning in Osaka and UFC 208 among other subjects.

Last night’s UFC 208 had more than 500,000 searches on Google.  Generally that means the show won’t be a monster, but nobody expected it would be, but probably won’t be too bad.  Still, there have been shows that have done barely over 200,000 buys that have hit 500,000 searches.  The most searched individual name, likely meaning the biggest draw on the show, was Anderson Silva and not Holly Holm.

Holm last night said that she thought Germaine de Randamie’s last punches were intentional.  There were a lot of questions with the officiating in the main event, as well as a very questionable standup in the Glover Teixeira vs. Jared Cannonier fight.  De Randamie hit Holm with a punch after the horn after both the second and third rounds.  The second round was blatant and should have had a point docked.  The third wasn’t as bad, but since it was the second time, that should have been a point docked given the first one didn’t.  No point was docked.  De Randamie won the title on straight 48-47 scores.  UFC was hopeful of setting up a Holm vs. Cyborg fight for that title.  As far as the decision went, I had it 48-47 for Holm, but the rounds were close enough that I can’t fault the judges.  In the Anderson Silva vs. Derek Brunson fight, that judging was a little more questionable.  I had Brunson winning 29-28, but the first round was close and it wasn’t a robbery like people are making it out to be.  But Eric Colon’s 30-27 card for Silva can’t be defended.

In the main event judging, Sal D’Amato gave de Randamie rounds one through three; Chris Lee gave her one, three and four and Jeff Mullen gave her one through three.  Media scores were 63 percent for Holm. In Silva vs. Brunson, Derek Cleary gave rounds one and three to Silva; Eric Colon gave all three rounds to Silva and Douglas Crosby gave two and three to Silva.  Media scores were 84 percent for Brunson.  

Dana White publicly said it wasn’t one of the better shows.  He was critical of the judging and of main event referee Todd Anderson.  To that point, the UFC only gave out three bonuses instead of four, one to Jacare Souza for his submission, and one each for Dustin Poirier and Jim Miller, who had unquestionably the best fight.

Germaine de Randamie’s title win was big news in The Netherlands.  It was covered on every news outlet including the major network news shows and the feeling is if UFC has her defend in Amsterdam or Rotterdam the show would be a big success. (thanks to Henk Mulder)

The second half of the New Beginning show is worth going out of your way to see, particularly Dragon Lee vs. Hiromu Takahashi and Tetsuya Naito vs. Michael Elgin.  We’ve only in mid-February and this year is loaded with match of the year contenders. With the New Beginning show over, I expect the Honor Rising shows and the New Japan Cup lineups to be announced today or tomorrow.  Adam Cole vs. Yoshi-Hashi for the ROH title is scheduled for the Honor Rising show.  Among those on the shows include War Machine, Briscoes, Jay Lethal, Silas Young, Dalton Castle, Damien Martinez, Delirious, Juice Robinson, Will Ospreay, Kenny Omega, Bad Luck Fale, Tama Tonga, Tonga Roa, Hangman Page, Young Bucks and Cody Rhodes.

WWE

• Bill Goldberg has been added to both the 2/27 and 3/6 Raw shows.  He would be expected on 2/27 since that’s the Fast Lane go-home show and he’s headlining that card.  The 3/6 show is the day after, the first show with the hard push for Mania, and he and Brock Lesnar are the key match on that show.
• Pro Wrestling Sheet reported Tessa Blanchard and Thea Trinidad have roles in the movie “Fighting with My Family,” put on by Dwayne Johnson’s Seven Bucks Entertainment, about Paige.  The movie is currently filming in Los Angeles.
• The T-shrits Baron Corbin wears on television are from the husband of Rosa Mendes’ company. (thanks to Matt McCarthy and others)
• The final episode of Legends with JBL, an interview with Jimmy Hart, will be airing on Tuesday on the WWE network.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Results from our panel picks for UFC 208:
  5-0: John Pollock
  4-1: Dave Meltzer
  3-2: Mike Sempervive, Josh Nason, Mike Sawyer. Steve Juon, Ryan Frederick, David Bixenspan, Front Row Brian
  2-3: Paul Fontaine
• WCPW has an iPPV show going on today headlined by Kurt Angle vs. Alberto El Patron.at www.fite.tv. 
• Ian Riccaboni was the lead announcer at the ROH TV tapings last night in Pittsburgh.  However, Kevin Kelly will be the lead announcer for the 2/26 and 2/27 ROH shows at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo.
• Great North Wrestling announced that on its 5/13 show in Hawkesbury, ONT at the Smiths Falls Memorial Center that every match will take place inside an MMA cage.  The main event is Hannibal vs. Wes Brisco. 
• Pure Wrestling Association from Friday night in Guelph, ONT:  Carl LeDuc b Brandon Jacobs, Joey Allen & Mr. Atlantis b Aiden Rayne & Paul Wright, Eddie Osbourne b Hardcore Hick, Josh Alexander b Andrew Davis, Eric Cairnie b Mike Bailey.
• Pure Wrestling Association from last night in Kitchener, ONT:  Andrew Davis NC Brandon Jacobs, Andrew Davis & Brandon Jacobs b Jimmy King & Joey Allen, Eric Cairnie b Lenny Lilac, Carl LeDuc b Hardcore Hick, Eddie Osbourne b Beautiful Beaa, Josh Alexander b Mike Bailey. (thanks to Steven Ashe)
• Atomic Wrestling Entertainment from last night in Cocoa, FL before 250 fans:  Ax Clover & CJ O’Doyle won Battle Royal, Alex Todd b Vertigo Rivera, Chasyn Rance b Chris Silvio, Nick Nero and Adam Ace to win cruiserweight title, Aaron Epic b Tripp Cassidy, Jesse Neal b JD Amazing, Sinn Bodhi b Chico Adams, Terrence & Terrell Dudley (Devon’s sons) b La Dinamita Solar & Jason Dugan, Brandi Lauren won three-way over Amber Nova and Lacey Lane, Cole Radrick b Slade Porter, CT Brown, Dale Patrick, Percy Davis and Ace Perry, CJ O’Doyle b Axx Clover to win heavyweight title.  Next show is 3/29 in Orlando at Gilt Night Club and 4/21 in Cocoa at the Expo. (thanks to Al Haft)
• Although this had been reported for weeks, TNA made it official that the next tapings of Impact will be 3/2 to 3/5 in Orlando at Universal.
• Cross Body Pro Wrestling Family Day on 2/18 in Kitchener, ONT at 69 Agnes St. with Alessandro De Bruno vs Tyler Thomas vs. Mike Bailey.
• CZW had its 18th anniversary show last night in Voorhees, NJ before a sellout crowd.  There was a big celebration for wrestling fan Kevin Hogan, who was killed in a truck accident on 2/2.  The entire locker room came out and fans were loudly chanting his name.  Owner DJ Hyde and Vice President Maven Bentley brought out Hogan’s family and inducted Hogan into the CZW Hall of Fame.  Hyde was really sad here.  People who hadn’t been to shows in eight or nine years came to see this ceremony and the promotion apparently did a great job with this.

• Jake Crist b Sami Callihan
• Tim Donst b Anthony Deppen
• Homicide & Mercedes Martinez b Greg Excellent & Chrissy Rivera
• Dave Crist b Rickey Shane Page
• Maxwell Jacob Feinstein b Billy Danvers when SHLAK and Dan O’Hare destroyed Danvers
• Joe Gacy b Shigehiro Irie to keep the CZW world title
• Joey Janela b Stockade after a power bomb through cinder blocks to keep the CZW Wired title
• Dezmond Xavier & Zachary Wentz b EYFBO
• David Starr DDQ Matt Riddle in an excellent match with the wXw Shotgun title up against the Progress Atlas title
• Drew Blood & Devon Moore b Danny Havoc & Conor Claxton. 

        Next show is 3/11 in Voorhees, NJ at Flyers Skate Zone with EYFBO vs Dub Boyz and Jeff Cannonball & Joey Janelsa vs. Matt Tremont & Stockade 

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (2/12): Christian Cage wins gold in TNA

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• UFC 208 live results: Holm vs. de Randamie; Silva vs. Brunson
• Chavo Guerrero Sr. passes away at 68 years old
• NJPW New Beginning in Osaka live results: Naito vs. Elgin
• Mojo Rawley vs. Curt Hawkins added to Elimination Chamber pre-show
• WWE 2016 financials: Network subs up; 205 and UK tour updates

AUDIO

• Wrestling Weekly: Hansen vs. Andre, Rock ‘n’ Roll Express, mailbag 2/10
• WOL: Tony Schiavone talks NWA Crockett, WCW, more, plus news! 2/10
• B&V&G: NXT, Raw, WrestleMania 1 part 2, Granny’s Wrestling Report, more! 2/10
• WOL: Everything you ever wanted to know about WWE’s earnings report 2/9

WWE Raw is in Anchorage, Alaska, SmackDown in Las Cruces, MN, NXT in Albany, NY and Gainesville, FL and ROH in Columbus, OH (Adam Cole & Hangman Page vs. Jay Lethal & Bobby Fish, Young Bucks vs. War Machine for tag titles, Kingdom vs. ? for trios titles, Marty Scurll vs. Lio Rush non-title, Cody vs. Dalton Castle, Chris Sabin & Alex Shelly & Jay White vs Rhett Titus & Kenny King & Caprice Coleman, Mark & Jay Briscoe vs. Sho Tanaka & Yohei Komatsu). We’re looking for reports on all of these shows to [email protected].

UFC 208 LIVE FROM THE BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN ON SATURDAY

Fight Pass at 7 p.m.

• Roan Carneiro (170) vs. Ryan LaFlare (170.6)
• Rick Glenn (145.8) vs. Phillipe Nover (145.6)

FS1 at 8 p.m.

• Nik Lentz (155.8) vs. Islam Makhachev (155)
• Wilson Reis (125.2) vs. Ulka Sasaki (125.4)
• Randy Brown (170.6) vs. Belal Muhammad (170.2)

PPV at 10 p.m.

• Jim Miller (154.6) vs. Dustin Poirier (155.2)
• Jared Cannonier (204.4) vs. Glover Teixeira (205.2)
• Tim Boetsch (185.8) vs. Ronaldo Jacare Souza (185.8)
• Anderson Silva (185) vs. Derek Brunson (186)
• Holly Holm (144.4) vs. Germaine de Randamie (143.6) for UFC women’s featherweight title

WWE ELIMINATION CHAMBER PPV FROM THE TALKING STICK RESORT ARENA IN PHOENIX AT 7:30 P.M. SUNDAY

• Curt Hawkins vs. Mojo Rawley (pre-show match)
• Dolph Ziggler vs. Apollo Crews & Kalisto
• Mickie James vs. Becky Lynch
• Nikki Bella vs. Natalya
• Tag team gauntlet matches for the titles with Jason Jordan & Chad Gable, The Usos, Vaudevillains, The Ascension, Heath Slater & Rhyno and Tyler Breeze & Fandango
• Alexa Bliss vs. Naomi for women’s title
• Randy Orton vs. Luke Harper
• Elimination chamber for WWE title: John Cena, Bray Wyatt, A.J. Styles, The Miz, Dean Ambrose and Baron Corbin

Besides Elimination Chamber, WWE Raw has a house show on Sunday in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Raw will be on Monday from Las Vegas. Neither Bill Goldberg nor Brock Lesnar are scheduled for the show. There is also a SmackDown brand house show in Oakland, CA at the Oracle Arena.

SmackDown will be Tuesday from Anaheim, CA.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 2/6/2017: How WWE got it right with Goldberg this time

Over a decade after their match at Madison Square Garden was nearly booed out of the building, it’s remarkable that Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar will once again be a marquee match on a WrestleMania card in 2017. Their collision course that became inevitable once Goldberg was booked to dominate Lesnar at Survivor Series took the next step forward on last week’s Raw as Paul Heyman challenged Goldberg to the rematch on behalf of Lesnar… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 13, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: NJPW New Beginning review, WWE Fast Lane/Elimination Chamber cards, more

An update on the WWE’s WrestleMania plans and then two PPV’s leading to WrestleMania is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.  We update the situation with the Seth Rollins vs. HHH proposed match, new matches that have changed due to injuries, update injured talent and a new proposed championship match on the Mania show, as well as more on different planned matches.

We also look at plans for both Elimination Chamber and Fast Lane.

We’ve got full coverage of the New Beginning in Sapporo show headlined by Kazuchika Okada vs. Minoru Suzuki, with match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results and business notes. We look at the build up angle and the story behind the main event, and this week’s show in Osaka.

We look at the big coup by WWE Studios working with Dwayne Johnson, a current WWE star being talked about for doing MMA, Kurt Angle talks wrestling in WWE, NXT Takeover Orlando notes, and lots of thoughts on the XFL documentary and key points that were not in.

We also have more WWE WrestleMania week plans, more on Mike Adamle and his battle against dementia and his background, update on a lot of WWE injuries, a surprise coach at the Performance Center and update on where that come from, and another WWE movie project.

We also have tons of notes on the wrestlers brought to the Performance Center this past week as well as other athletes for tryouts, including who they are and their backgrounds including some very unique prospects. We also look at the most-watched shows of the past week on the network as well as a rundown of all the WWE and NXT arena events this past week with both highlights and business notes.

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: January 17, 2000 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Death of Gary Albright, Observer awards, more

Gary Albright, a former world class amateur wrestling star and headliner on many big shows as a pro in Japan, died after collapsing in the ring at an independent show in Hazleton, PA before about 100 fans on 1/7. He was 36. The preliminary reports from the corner attributed the death of the 6-foot-4, 340-pound powerhouse to a heart attack, technically speaking a combination of severe atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus and acute pulmonary edema… Subscribers click here to continue.

SATURDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

• WWE acknowledged Chavo Guerrero Sr.’s death with an article on their website. Triple H also posted a tweet about Guerrero Sr.: “Chavo Sr. was one of a kind. He did things his own way & entertained fans for 20+ years. My thoughts are with the entire Guerrero family.”
• Madison Square Garden’s website is now advertising that AJ Styles and Shane McMahon will be making “special appearances” at WWE’s house show at the arena next month. Brock Lesnar vs. Kevin Owens is also scheduled for that show.
• HoHo Lun welcomed WWE’s newest Chinese signees to Orlando as they started at the Performance Center.
• Shinsuke Nakamura teamed with Kassius Ohno against Bobby Roode & Andrade “Cien” Almas in the main event of last night’s NXT house show in Asbury Park, New Jersey.

Pro Wrestling

• NJPW’s New Beginning in Osaka took place this morning, with the IWGP Intercontinental Championship match between Tetsuya Naito and Michael Elgin and the Hiromu Takahashi vs. Dragon Lee IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship match in particular getting strong reviews. Bryan Rose covered the show live and gave his thoughts on the matches.
• Lance Archer tweeted a picture after undergoing surgery for the herniated disc injury that has him out of action.
• John Darnielle, the frontman of The Mountain Goats, posted some thoughts on Twitter about the death of Chavo Guerrero Sr. Darnielle wrote: “Chavo Guerrero, Sr. has died. Champ, when we met, you were gracious, kind, open, & giving. It has been an honor over the past few years, to be in touch with you — to hear from you at holidays, to see what a true champion you were in life. I will miss you so so much.” The Mountain Goats released the song “The Legend of Chavo Guerrero” in 2015 as part of their pro wrestling-based concept album “Beat the Champ.”
• This week’s edition of Impact on Pop TV was watched by 252k viewers, which is a fairly big drop from the 299k who watched last week’s episode.
• As part of Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks’ tour of the UK in April, Fight Club: PRO announced that the trio would be facing Tyler Bate, Pete Dunne & Trent Seven on April 14th in Wolverhampton.
• Preston City Wrestling responded to criticism the promotion has received for running an upcoming tournament named after the late Kris Travis without donating the proceeds to charity. Pete Dunne and Ryan Smile have said that they’ll be donating the money they get paid for the tournament to Cavendish Cancer Care.
• What Culture Pro Wrestling has a live iPPV on Fite.TV tomorrow:
  Kurt Angle vs. Alberto El Patron
  Drew Galloway vs. Joe Hendry
  Will Ospreay vs. Ricochet
  Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Travis Banks
  Rampage vs. Primate in an I Quit match
  Bea Priestley vs Tessa Blanchard
  Pentagon Jr. vs. Drago

UFC/MMA

• Dana White claimed that tonight’s UFC 208 show at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York is sold out and the gate for the event is over $2 million.
• White also responded to Tyron Woodley’s belief that race plays a factor in why he gets booed and said that the UFC will be holding a show in Russia soon.
• Ian McCall is off of tonight’s show due to an illness, which continues a run of McCall’s fights getting canceled at nearly the last minute. McCall had been scheduled to face Jarred Brooks.
• The UFC released the final episode of Embedded for UFC 208 before tonight’s PPV.
• A biopic about Jose Aldo is now available on Netflix.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (2/11): AJ Styles wins the IWGP title

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• Mojo Rawley vs. Curt Hawkins added to Elimination Chamber pre-show
• TNA Impact Wrestling results: Bobby Lashley vs. Eddie Edwards
• WWE 2016 financials: Network subs up; 205 and UK tour updates
• WWE NXT results: A Glorious Celebration
• SmackDown ratings down following last week’s big number

AUDIO

• Wrestling Weekly: Hansen vs. Andre, Rock ‘n’ Roll Express, mailbag 2/10
• WOL: Tony Schiavone talks NWA Crockett, WCW, more, plus news! 2/10
• B&V&G: NXT, Raw, WrestleMania 1 part 2, Granny’s Wrestling Report, more! 2/10
• WOL: Everything you ever wanted to know about WWE’s earnings report 2/9
• WOR: Smackdown, ratings, New Japan, UFC, mailbag, more! 2/9
• F4D: Smackdown, Total Divas, Impact, Geek of the Week and more with Filthy Tom! 2/8

We’re looking for reports tonight from the NXT shows is Asbury Park, NJ and Venice, FL and ROH TV tapings in Pittsburgh (Adam Cole & Young Bucks & Cody vs. Briscoes & Bobby Fish & Jay Lethal, Marty Scurll vs. Donovan Dijak for TV title, Matt Taven & TK O’Ryan & Vinnie Marseglia vs. Caprice Coleman & Rhett Titus & Kenny King for trios titles, War Machine vs. B.J. Whitmer & Damien Martinez no DQ, Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley vs Sho Tanaka & Yohei Komatsu, plus the beginnings of the Top Prospect tournament for 2017) to [email protected].

For this coming weekend, we’ll be doing three polls, for New Japan’s New Beginning in Osaka show, for UFC 208 PPV on Saturday from the Barclays Center and for WWE Elimination Chamber on Sunday from Phoenix. We’re looking for your thoughts on all of these shows, thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected].

NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING RETURNS ON AXS TV AT 8 P.M. EASTERN TIME

• Volador Jr. vs. Will Ospreay
• Kushida vs. Bushi
• Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Gedo

These are matches from the 2016 Best of the Super Juniors tournament

STYLE BATTLE TOURNAMENT FROM YBOR CITY, FL TONIGHT at FloSlam.tv

One night tournament with these first round matches:

• AR Fox vs. Drew Galloway
• Anthony Henry vs. Caleb Konley
• Fred Yehi vs. Tracer X
• Dan Barry vs. Sami Callihan
• Plus a Fray match, which is a Rumble style match with eliminations only via pin, submission or knockout.

LEGACY FIGHTING ALLIANCE TONIGHT AT 9 P.M. EASTERN TIME FROM LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA ON AXS TV

• Carnan Jenkins (0-0, 183.8) vs. Brian Wells (0-0, 184.3)
• Carlos Vera (5-1, 135.1) vs. Joel Scott (5-5, 135.2)
• Joshua Davila (6-6, 165.6) vs. Ray Blodget (10-3, 161.8)
• Caio Machado (10-2, 135.5) vs. Trent Meaux (5-2-1, 135)
• Thanh Le (5-1, 144.6) vs. Alex Black (11-4, 145.7)
• Jon Kirk (19-12, 187.8) vs. Brendan Allen (6-1, 185)
• Trevin Giles (8-0, 184.9) vs. Ryan Spann (9-3, 185.3)

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

• Astral & Principe Diamante vs. Cancerbero & Raziel
• Estrellita & Princesa Sugei & Silueta vs. Amapola & Dallys & Zeuxis
• Atlantis & Stuka Jr. & Valiente vs. La Mascara & Ripper & Rush
• One-night Torneo Incedibles, basically a one-night tag team partner where all teams are made up of wrestlers who are usually feuding with each other: Caristico & Mephisto, Cavernario Barbaro & Volador Jr., Kraneo & Marco Corleone, Diamante Azul & Pierroth, Angel de Oro & Rey Bucanero, Mascara Ano 2000 & Maximo Sexy, Rey Cometa & Puma and Blue Panther & Tiger. 

It’s the watch all the tag matches disintegrate into teammates fighting each other in five minute matches all night long.

NEW JAPAN NEW BEGINNING IN OSAKA LIVE AT 3 A.M. TONIGHT EASTERN AND MIDNIGHT PACIFIC ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

• Taka Michinoku vs. Hirai Kawato
• Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima & Henare vs. Yoshitatsu & Kushida & Tomoyuki Oka
• Yuji Nagata & Juice Robinson & Jushin Liger & Tiger Mask vs. Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi & Gedo & Jado
• Kazuchika Okada & Rocky Romero & Baretta vs. Minoru Suzuki & Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Taichi
• Hiroshi Tanahashi & Ryusuke Taguchi & Manabu Nakanishi vs. Seiya Sanada & Evil & Bushi for Never trios titles
• Katsuyori Shibata vs. Will Ospreay for British heavyweight title
• Tomohiro Ishii & Toru Yano vs. Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma vs. Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Takashi Iizuka for IWGP tag titles
• Hiromu Takahashi vs. Dragon Lee for IWGP jr. title
• Tetsuya Naito vs. Michael Elgin for IC title

Saturday has WWE Raw in Anchorage, Alaska, Smackdown in Las Cruces, MN, NXT in Albany, NY and Gainesville, FL and ROH in Columbus, OH (Adam Cole & Hangman Page vs. Jay Lethal & Bobby Fish, Young Bucks vs. War Machine for tag titles, Kingdom vs. ? for trios titles, Marty Scurll vs. Lio Rush non-title, Cody vs. Dalton Castle, Chris Sabin & Alex Shelly & Jay White vs Rhett Titus & Kenny King & Caprice Coleman, Mark & Jay Briscoe vs. Sho Tanaka & Yohei Komatsu). We’re looking for reports on all of these shows to [email protected].

UFC 208 LIVE FROM THE BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN ON SATURDAY

Fight Pass at 7 p.m.

• Roan Carneiro (170) vs. Ryan LaFlare (170.6)
• Rick Glenn (145.8) vs. Phillipe Nover (145.6)

FS1 at 8 p.m.

• Jarred Brooks (125) vs. Ian McCall (125.2)
• Nik Lentz (155.8) vs. Islam Makhachev (155)
• Wilson Reis (125.2) vs. Ulka Sasaki (125.4)
• Randy Brown (170.6) vs. Belal Muhammad (170.2)

PPV at 10 p.m.

• Jim Miller (154.6) vs. Dustin Poirier (155.2)
• Jared Cannonier (204.4) vs. Glover Teixeira (205.2)
• Tim Boetsch (185.8) vs. Ronaldo Jacare Souza (185.8)
• Anderson Silva (185) vs. Derek Brunson (186)
• Holly Holm (144.4) vs. Germaine de Randamie (143.6) for UFC women’s featherweight title

WWE ELIMINATION CHAMBER PPV FROM THE TALKING STICK RESORT ARENA IN PHOENIX AT 7:30 P.M. SUNDAY

• Curt Hawkins vs. Mojo Rawley (pre-show match)
• Dolph Ziggler vs. Apollo Crews & Kalisto
• Mickie James vs. Becky Lynch
• Nikki Bella vs. Natalya
• Tag team gauntlet matches for the titles with Jason Jordan & Chad Gable, The Usos, Vaudevillains, The Ascension, Heath Slater & Rhyno and Tyler Breeze & Fandango
• Alexa Bliss vs. Naomi for women’s title
• Randy Orton vs. Luke Harper
• Elimination chamber for WWE title: John Cena, Bray Wyatt, A.J. Styles, The Miz, Dean Ambrose and Baron Corbin

Besides Elimination Chamber, WWE Raw has a house show on Sunday in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Raw will be on Monday from Las Vegas. Neither Bill Goldberg nor Brock Lesnar are scheduled for the show. There is also a Smackdown brand house show in Oakland, CA at the Oracle Arena.

Smackdown will be Tuesday from Anaheim, CA.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 2/6/2017: How WWE got it right with Goldberg this time

Over a decade after their match at Madison Square Garden was nearly booed out of the building, it’s remarkable that Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar will once again be a marquee match on a WrestleMania card in 2017. Their collision course that became inevitable once Goldberg was booked to dominate Lesnar at Survivor Series took the next step forward on last week’s Raw as Paul Heyman challenged Goldberg to the rematch on behalf of Lesnar… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 13, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: NJPW New Beginning review, WWE Fast Lane/Elimination Chamber cards, more

An update on the WWE’s WrestleMania plans and then two PPV’s leading to WrestleMania is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.  We update the situation with the Seth Rollins vs. HHH proposed match, new matches that have changed due to injuries, update injured talent and a new proposed championship match on the Mania show, as well as more on different planned matches.

We also look at plans for both Elimination Chamber and Fast Lane.

We’ve got full coverage of the New Beginning in Sapporo show headlined by Kazuchika Okada vs. Minoru Suzuki, with match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results and business notes. We look at the build up angle and the story behind the main event, and this week’s show in Osaka.

We look at the big coup by WWE Studios working with Dwayne Johnson, a current WWE star being talked about for doing MMA, Kurt Angle talks wrestling in WWE, NXT Takeover Orlando notes, and lots of thoughts on the XFL documentary and key points that were not in.

We also have more WWE WrestleMania week plans, more on Mike Adamle and his battle against dementia and his background, update on a lot of WWE injuries, a surprise coach at the Performance Center and update on where that come from, and another WWE movie project.

We also have tons of notes on the wrestlers brought to the Performance Center this past week as well as other athletes for tryouts, including who they are and their backgrounds including some very unique prospects. We also look at the most-watched shows of the past week on the network as well as a rundown of all the WWE and NXT arena events this past week with both highlights and business notes.

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: January 17, 2000 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Death of Gary Albright, Observer awards, more

Gary Albright, a former world class amateur wrestling star and headliner on many big shows as a pro in Japan, died after collapsing in the ring at an independent show in Hazleton, PA before about 100 fans on 1/7. He was 36. The preliminary reports from the corner attributed the death of the 6-foot-4, 340-pound powerhouse to a heart attack, technically speaking a combination of severe atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus and acute pulmonary edema… Subscribers click here to continue.

FRIDAY NEWS UPDATE

For the weekend, we’ll be doing shows on Saturday night covering the UFC & New Japan shows, Sunday night covering the Elimination Chamber and Monday covering Raw.

Dwayne Johnson in step one apparently, is upset with Under Armour CEO Kevin Plank(Johnson has a shoe line with Under Armour) for his public support of Donald Trump, saying Plank’s comments were divisive and lacking in perspective.

Lance Archer will be undergoing surgery for a herniated disc in his lower back which will put him out of action for a long time. The timing couldn’t be worse since he and Davey Boy Smith Jr. were primed for a run as the top foreign tag team in New Japan. For tonight’s tag title match, Smith Jr. will team with Takashi Iizuka. Pro Wrestling Sheet reported that he’s expected to undergo surgery at some point over the next week.

Jose Aldo vs. Max Holloway for the UFC featherweight title is now set for 6/3 in Rio de Janeiro on PPV.

Dana White also said that Cris Cyborg Justino may be out of trouble from her drug test issue in that USADA looks to be granting her a retroactive TUE for the substance she was caught using. Nothing says more about a sleazy situation than retroactive TUE’s.

All the touring regulars are on the road this weekend. Obviously no Seth Rollins, but the full Raw crew, other than Samoa Joe (not advertised) are scheduled for the first trip to Alaska in three years. John Cena and Randy Orton are both scheduled for the Smackdown tour.

Even though they are doing a knee injury angle on television, NXT “rules” are that injuries don’t count except on the TV show, so Shinsuke Nakamura headlined last night in Upper Darby, PA and headlines tonight in Asbury Park and tomorrow night in Albany.

WWE

• Some feel the smart money is already in for Sunday’s Elimination Chamber. My gut is it’s just that the results of the key matches are obvious:
  Randy Orton is at -4500 (45-to-1) favorite over Luke Harper
  American Alpha is at -4500 to win the Tag Team Turmoil
  Dolph Ziggler is an underdog in the handicap match but odds are short
  Naomi’s odds are dropping and it’s now just about even odds with Alexa Bliss after Bliss was a heavy favorite
  Natalya’s odds are dropping greatly but Nikki Bella is still a favorite
  Becky Lynch was also a significant underdog but the odds are closing to almost even in her match with Mickie James
  Bray Wyatt is at -1350 to win the Chamber match
• Natalya will be doing a regular column in the Calgary Sun. Her ex-uncle Bret for years had a column in the newspaper. In fact, the current back issue of the Observer has, in hindsight, perhaps the most important one he ever wrote.
• Mick Foley will be writing a Christmas book called “Saint Mick” this year for release during the Christmas season. 
• Darren Young underwent successful elbow surgery yesterday.
• Big Cass talks about the Royal Rumble and the house show Sunday in Fairbanks, Alaska.
• Irv Muchnick on Donald Trump, Senator Richard Blumenthal and WWE talent being independent contractors.

UFC / MMA

• A prelim match on tomorrow’s UFC card with Marcin Tybura vs. Justin Willis is off. Willis, who took the fight on short notice, had his body shut down earlier today in attempting too cut to 266 pounds and the doctors pulled him off the show. Tybura will get paid his guarantee since he weighed in.
• So Michael Bisping and Yoel Romero had a Twitter battle. This led to Romero calling into Bisping’s radio show. And this is what ensued from there.
• Today is the ten year anniversary of the Gina Carano vs. Julie Kedzie fight on Showtime, which was the first women’s MMA fight ever on major U.S. television. The story behind the fight is most interesting because Showtime wanted no part of it and promoter Gary Shaw, who saw Carano as a potential superstar, pushed for it. Basically the agreement was that it could put as an early fight on the show, but if there were any problems or it didn’t get over, Shaw was told he couldn’t ask for another women’s fight to be aired. As it was, on an otherwise lackluster show, it was Carano vs. Kedzie who stole the show and saved the show and the next thing you know, Carano’s fights on CBS were adding 1 million or more viewers in less than ten minutes.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Matt Cross (Son of Havoc) just found out that he broke his leg four weeks ago on a show in Seattle. We had heard he injured his leg doing a moonsault and he’d been canceling his shows. When the leg wasn’t getting better as quick as he’d hoped for, he got an X-ray and found out it was broken.

• Marty Scurll vs. Sonjay Dutt for the ROH TV title has been added to the company’s 3/4 show at the Hammerstein Ballroom in Manhattan.

• The www.nwaondemand.com subscription site just uploaded a July 1, 1977 NWA world title match with Harley Race vs. Terry Funk from the Houston Coliseum which is said to be an incredible match.

• A story on Chris LaRusso, who is in the ROH Top Prospect tournament, on why tonight is the biggest night of his career.
• Brace MMA is 4/8 in Canberra, Australia at the AIS Arena.
• Dan Severn talks the time he spent with Lou Thesz, as well as the WWE Hall of Fame.
• National Wrestling League from last night in St. Louis: Marcellus Gaines b Javy Torres, Todd Letterman b Wayne Taylor, Cal Stark b Tommy Flagg, Dez Wellston & Jay Lutz b Adam Ryan & Jackie Lee Bosch, Maverick b Dominick Butler, Dak Draper b Jet Royal, Coco Rumble b Clayton Fox, Davey Gibson & Matthew Grundy b Cornell Douglass & Christian Adonis (thanks to Patrick Brandmeyer). 
• Heart of Shimmer champion Nicole Savoy was on Over the Top Radio last night. 
• FIP will air live tomorrow night on FloSlam with Fred Yehi vs. Brian Cage for the FIP title as the main event.
• Today would have been the 45th birthday of Louie Spicolli, who passed away 18 years ago.
• Results from today’s ONE show at Stadium Negara in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia:Muhammad Aiman b Eduardo Novaes via TKO from strikes at 2:50 of round two
  Tiffany Teo b Priscilla Hertati Lumban Gaoi via decision after three rounds
  Saiful Merican b Burn Soriano via TKO from strikes at 5:00
  Alex Silva b Roy Doliguez via armbar at 2:36 of the third round
  Keanu Subba b Ahmed Mujtaba via guillotine at 2:56
  Movlid Khaibulaev b Herbert Burns via decision after three rounds
  Ann Osman b Vy Srey Khouch via TKO from strikes at 4:58
  Agilan Thani b Jeff Huang via choke at 2:10 o the second round
  Ev Ting b Kamal Shalorus via split decision after three rounds

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (2/10): Masa Saito wins AWA gold at the Tokyo Dome

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• SmackDown ratings down following last week’s big number
• Impact Wrestling & Pro Wrestling NOAH enter working agreement
• WWE SmackDown video highlights: John Cena vs. Randy Orton
• WWE adds more matches to the Elimination Chamber & Fastlane cards
• WWE 205 Live results: Fatal five-way determines a number one contender
• WWE SmackDown live results: John Cena vs. Randy Orton
• Becky Lynch vs. Mickie James set for WWE Elimination Chamber
• Raw ratings down big from last week’s post-Royal Rumble highs
• The Rock’s production company developing a film about WWE’s Paige

AUDIO

• FREE WOL! Tons of news plus Kurt Brown talks Argentine pro-wrestling! 2/8
• B&V: Retro Raw and Nitro plus live Smackdown Live and more! 2/7
• WOL: Raw, Smackdown, Road to WrestleMania, Rock film on Paige, more! 2/7
• WOR: Raw, more on the XFL, Minoru Suzuki, Rock and Roll Express, more! 2/7
• WOR: Everything you ever wanted to know about the XFL 2/6

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/30/2017: Recapping the 2017 Royal Rumble

Given the star power in the match, Randy Orton winning the 2017 Royal Rumble was always going to be underwhelming to some. It was only who he eliminated last that redeemed the moment to most who were disappointed. Orton capped off a solid Rumble match at the Alamodome by last eliminating Roman Reigns, who entered at #30 after interference from Braun Strowman cost him his shot at the Universal Championship earlier in the night… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 6, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble review, Ronda Rousey retired, more

An update on the lineups for WrestleMania, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber, the direction of WWE and how they are getting there, the title situation and why the matches are taking place is the lead story in the new issue of the Observer.

Have a look at the situation with Seth Rollins and his injury, the current WrestleMania lineup, as well as how the next two PPVs will set up WrestleMania.

There is full coverage of the Royal Rumble, with a look at how everyone did, notes on Royal rumble records, match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results, and more.

This issue looks at the John Cena title win, examine how many world title reigns Ric Flair really had and the ones WWE pretends didn’t happen, ticket sales as compared to the 1997 show in the same building, problems with the setup and more.

Examine the probable retirement of Ronda Rousey and her legacy, both good and bad.

Inside has an update on the situation with Conor McGregor and UFC and WWE, as well as the proposed Mayweather fight and the impending battles over contracts that fighters and UFC are likely to be having.

There is full coverage of the San Antonio Takeover show, the NXT awards, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and business notes.

Coverage of the UFC on FOX show as well as examining what lessons can be learned from the ratings, and what’s next for the fighters, is inside.

Look at plans for the 2018 Royal Rumble weekend, Mick Foley update regarding his position as General Manager, Paul Levesque talks working with outside promoters and Matt Riddle, plus we look at Riddle’s pro wrestling background. Plus, also look at the directions planned for upcoming house shows, what types of talent WWE has been contacting for WrestleMania and tournaments, Finn Balor update, notes on this coming weekend’s house shows, plus coverage from the NXT & WWE weekend events, with match highlights and business notes from the shows.

Finally, check out the coverage of the first U.K. prime time live television wrestling event since 1968.

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: January 17, 2000 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Death of Gary Albright, Observer awards, more

Gary Albright, a former world class amateur wrestling star and headliner on many big shows as a pro in Japan, died after collapsing in the ring at an independent show in Hazleton, PA before about 100 fans on 1/7. He was 36. The preliminary reports from the corner attributed the death of the 6-foot-4, 340-pound powerhouse to a heart attack, technically speaking a combination of severe atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus and acute pulmonary edema… Subscribers click here to continue.

WEDNESDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

• WWE added Randy Orton vs. Luke Harper and Dolph Ziggler vs. Apollo Crews & Kalisto in a handicap match to Sunday’s Elimination Chamber card on last night’s SmackDown. The updated Elimination Chamber lineup is:
  John Cena defending the WWE Championship against AJ Styles, Dean Ambrose, The Miz, Bray Wyatt, and Baron Corbin in an Elimination Chamber match
  Alexa Bliss defending the SmackDown Women’s Championship against Naomi
  Randy Orton vs. Luke Harper
  American Alpha defending the SmackDown Tag Team Championship against The Usos, Heath Slater & Rhyno, The Ascension, Breezango, and The Vaudevillains in a tag team turmoil match
  Becky Lynch vs. Mickie James
  Nikki Bella vs. Natalya
  Dolph Ziggler vs. Apollo Crews & Kalisto in a handicap match
• Another match was also added to the March 5th Fastlane card last night as Jack Gallagher became the number one contender for Neville’s WWE Cruiserweight Championship by winning a fatal five-way match on 205 Live. Neville vs. Gallagher joins Kevin Owens vs. Goldberg for the Universal title and Roman Reigns vs. Braun Strowman as the matches already announced for Raw’s last brand-exclusive pay-per-view before WrestleMania.
• It was announced last night that Gran Metalik would be making his 205 Live debut next week.
• NBC in Chicago ran a story about former WWE broadcaster Mike Adamle and the health issues he’s battling. Adamle has been diagnosed with dementia and is possibly suffering from CTE as well, among other health problems. Adamle participated in the interview to tell his story and in the hopes that it would help others experiencing similar issues. Adamle is a former NFL player and has been a broadcaster for a number of outlets.
• Lena Headey and Nick Frost have been added to the cast of “Fighting With My Family,” the film that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s production company is producing based on Paige and her family.
• Paige and Alberto Del Rio were interviewed by TMZ Sports, with Paige saying that she’d consider trying out MMA when her time with WWE comes to an end.
• Daniel Bryan was the special guest referee for the Dean Ambrose vs. Miz dark match in Seattle last night after SmackDown and 205 Live went off the air.
• Andre the Giant’s daughter was backstage at last night’s SmackDown. Natalya posted a picture with her on Instagram.
• Nigel McGuinness makes his debut on commentary for NXT on the episode that airs tonight on the WWE Network.
• SiriusXM’s Sam Roberts will again be appearing on a WWE PPV pre-show as he returns for this Sunday’s Elimination Chamber broadcast.

Pro Wrestling

• wXw announced today that Pete Dunne would no longer be wrestling for the promotion on February 24th, with Revolution Pro Wrestling also announcing that Dunne would be wrestling for them on the same date instead against the former Pentagon Jr.
• Ring of Honor announced that The Young Bucks would be defending their tag titles against Jay White & Lio Rush at the promotion’s Manhattan Mayhem show on March 4th in New York City.
• Donovan Dijak posted a video on Twitter cutting a promo about his ROH TV title match against Marty Scurll this Saturday, while noting that it’s the final time for the foreseeable future that he’s scheduled to appear for ROH.

UFC/MMA

• The Hollywood Reporter broke the news that Spike TV is expected to be rebranded as the Paramount Network, with an announcement expected tomorrow morning. Spike TV is home to Bellator and also used to be a TV partner with the UFC, WWE, and TNA. It isn’t known what a rebrand could mean for Bellator’s place on the channel yet, but MMA and pro wrestling in the past have been important for Spike’s male-oriented programming schedule.
• Yoel Romero trolled Michael Bisping by starting a GoFundMe to cover Bisping’s medical expenses following their fight later this year.
• Conor McGregor posted a boxing training video on Instagram.
• The UFC released the first and second episodes of their Embedded series for UFC 208.
• Kevin Iole has a column on the ratings success that the UFC has had with women’s fights.
• Ryan Bader reiterated that he’ll likely be signing with Bellator.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (2/8): Randy Savage wins the WWF IC title

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• Becky Lynch vs. Mickie James set for WWE Elimination Chamber
• Raw ratings down big from last week’s post-Royal Rumble highs
• The Rock’s production company developing a film about WWE’s Paige
• Former All Japan & NOAH wrestler Ryuma ‘Jun’ Izumida passes away
• NJPW Road to New Beginning results: Three 10-man elimination tags
• UFC Super Bowl weekend show does great ratings for FS1
• WWE Raw video highlights: Samoa Joe vs. Roman Reigns
• Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar officially booked for WWE WrestleMania 33
• Charlotte Flair vs. Bayley set for next week’s Raw
• WWE Raw live results: Goldberg responds to Brock Lesnar’s challenge
• The Rock ‘n’ Roll Express joining WWE’s 2017 Hall of Fame class

AUDIO

• WOR: Raw, more on the XFL, Minoru Suzuki, Rock and Roll Express, more! 2/7
• WOL: Raw, Smackdown, Okada vs. Suzuki, Rock and Rolls in the Hall of Fame, more! 2/6
• WOR: Everything you ever wanted to know about the XFL 2/6
• B&V: Bryan and Vinny’s Super Bowl breakdown, NWA WCW from 30 years ago this week! 2/5

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/30/2017: Recapping the 2017 Royal Rumble

Given the star power in the match, Randy Orton winning the 2017 Royal Rumble was always going to be underwhelming to some. It was only who he eliminated last that redeemed the moment to most who were disappointed. Orton capped off a solid Rumble match at the Alamodome by last eliminating Roman Reigns, who entered at #30 after interference from Braun Strowman cost him his shot at the Universal Championship earlier in the night… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 6, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble review, Ronda Rousey retired, more

An update on the lineups for WrestleMania, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber, the direction of WWE and how they are getting there, the title situation and why the matches are taking place is the lead story in the new issue of the Observer.

Have a look at the situation with Seth Rollins and his injury, the current WrestleMania lineup, as well as how the next two PPVs will set up WrestleMania.

There is full coverage of the Royal Rumble, with a look at how everyone did, notes on Royal rumble records, match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results, and more.

This issue looks at the John Cena title win, examine how many world title reigns Ric Flair really had and the ones WWE pretends didn’t happen, ticket sales as compared to the 1997 show in the same building, problems with the setup and more.

Examine the probable retirement of Ronda Rousey and her legacy, both good and bad.

Inside has an update on the situation with Conor McGregor and UFC and WWE, as well as the proposed Mayweather fight and the impending battles over contracts that fighters and UFC are likely to be having.

There is full coverage of the San Antonio Takeover show, the NXT awards, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and business notes.

Coverage of the UFC on FOX show as well as examining what lessons can be learned from the ratings, and what’s next for the fighters, is inside.

Look at plans for the 2018 Royal Rumble weekend, Mick Foley update regarding his position as General Manager, Paul Levesque talks working with outside promoters and Matt Riddle, plus we look at Riddle’s pro wrestling background. Plus, also look at the directions planned for upcoming house shows, what types of talent WWE has been contacting for WrestleMania and tournaments, Finn Balor update, notes on this coming weekend’s house shows, plus coverage from the NXT & WWE weekend events, with match highlights and business notes from the shows.

Finally, check out the coverage of the first U.K. prime time live television wrestling event since 1968.

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: January 17, 2000 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Death of Gary Albright, Observer awards, more

Gary Albright, a former world class amateur wrestling star and headliner on many big shows as a pro in Japan, died after collapsing in the ring at an independent show in Hazleton, PA before about 100 fans on 1/7. He was 36. The preliminary reports from the corner attributed the death of the 6-foot-4, 340-pound powerhouse to a heart attack, technically speaking a combination of severe atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus and acute pulmonary edema… Subscribers click here to continue.

TUESDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

• The first match for WrestleMania 33 was officially set on last night’s Raw as it was announced that Goldberg would be facing Brock Lesnar in Orlando. Before that, Goldberg will challenge Kevin Owens for the Universal title at Fastlane. Roman Reigns vs. Braun Strowman has also been announced for Fastlane.
• Another match will be added to the Fastlane card tonight as a fatal five-way match between Cedric Alexander, Jack Gallagher, TJ Perkins, Noam Dar, and Tony Nese was booked for 205 Live to decide Neville’s next challenger for the Cruiserweight title.
• John Cena vs. Randy Orton in a non-title match is the most hyped thing for tonight’s SmackDown. It will be the Elimination Chamber go-home show, with Becky Lynch vs. Mickie James having been added to the PPV’s card earlier today.
• WWE issued an update on Shinsuke Nakamura’s storyline knee injury, noting that there were no tears in Nakamura’s knee and that he wouldn’t require surgery.
• The custom WWE Championship that WWE sent the New England Patriots after their Super Bowl 51 win was heavily featured during the team’s victory parade today. Rob Gronkowski posted a picture with the title before the parade began and it appeared several times on the TV broadcast.
• Sami Zayn spoke to ESPN about wanting to help change how Muslims and Arabs are portrayed in American media.
• Triple H posted a tweet welcoming WWE’s newest Chinese recruits to the Performance Center.
• Last night’s video promoting the makeover of Emmalina claimed that she would be appearing on Raw next week. Charlotte Flair vs. Bayley and Kevin Owens & Chris Jericho hosting a Festival of Friendship are also advertised for the show.

Pro Wrestling

• EVOLVE announced that Michael Elgin and Donovan Dijak would be wrestling for the promotion over WrestleMania weekend, which probably says something about Dijak’s future with Ring of Honor. Elgin & Dijak will challenge for Tracy Williams & Fred Yehi’s EVOLVE tag titles on March 30th in Orlando, Florida. Elgin will also face Zack Sabre Jr. the next night.
• Matt Riddle vs. Drew Galloway and Tracy Williams vs. Keith Lee have been announced for EVOLVE 79 in Queens, New York on February 25th. EVOLVE 78 will take place in Joppa, Maryland the night before that with Galloway vs. Jeff Cobb and Tracy Williams vs. ACH announced.
• OTT Wrestling announced a big match for their April 15th show at National Stadium in Ireland. The Young Bucks will team with Kenny Omega against Ricochet, Will Ospreay & Ryan Smile.
• Zack Sabre Jr. vs. the former Pentagon Jr. will take place for Revolution Pro Wrestling in Orlando on March 31st over WrestleMania weekend.

UFC/MMA

• Today is the four-year anniversary of Conor McGregor signing a contract with the UFC.
• Daniel Cormier said that he’s confident Anthony “Rumble” Johnson will quit at UFC 210.
• Joanna Jedrzejczyk said that she would be open to fighting at 125 lbs.
• The Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports (ABC) Rules and Regulations Committee recommended some use of instant replay and four other rule changes for MMA.
• Anderson Silva wants another fight with Michael Bisping after UFC 208.
• Fabricio Werdum vs. Ben Rothwell is reportedly being targeted for UFC 211.
• Bellator is heading to Italy on April 8th for a combined MMA/kickboxing show.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

PRE MANIA TAILGATE:

• Who to Blame: Ken Hesser 
• Details from Ken: I ran one prior to the Miami, Atlanta, and last Orlando Manias, and all were well received. Typically, I keep these things really informal, with music, cornhole and refreshments, BYOB or food. Fun should start around 3 PM, so if you’re coming over on the bus, please stop by for a few minutes! PM if you’re coming by! – KennyH75 (I still need a ticket for the show by the way).

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (2/7): Bobby Roode & Austin Aries win tag team gold

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS / REPORTS

• The Rock ‘n’ Roll Express joining WWE’s 2017 Hall of Fame class
• ROH TV results: Jay Briscoe and Jay Lethal take Center Stage
• WWE Main Event results: New Day vs. The Shining Stars & Titus O’Neil
• NJPW New Beginning in Sapporo live results: Okada vs. Suzuki
• TNA Impact Wrestling results: Open Fight Night returns
• WWE NXT results: Corey Graves says goodbye to NXT

AUDIO

• WOL: Raw, Smackdown, Okada vs. Suzuki, Rock and Rolls in the Hall of Fame, more! 2/6
• WOR: Everything you ever wanted to know about the XFL 2/6
• B&V: Bryan and Vinny’s Super Bowl breakdown, NWA WCW from 30 years ago this week! 2/5
• AD: Monsters and mysteries of Missouri! 2/5

Raw is tonight from Portland, OR. Both Brock Lesnar and Bill Goldberg are scheduled on the show. There is also a SmackDown brand house show in Abbotsford, BC.

NEW JAPAN AT KORAKUEN HALL AT 4:30 A.M. EASTERN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING FROM KORAKUEN HALL IN TOKYO

• Satoshi Kojima & Yuji Nagata vs. Yoshitatsu & Tomoyuki Oka
• Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Jushin Liger & Tiger Mask vs. Takashi Iizuka & Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Desperado
• Tomoaki Honma & Togi Makabe & Katsuyori Shibata & Juice Robinson & Kushida vs. Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi & Will Ospreay & Gedo & Jado in an elimination match
• Kazuchika Okada & Toru Yano & Tomohiro Ishii & Rocky Romero & Baretta vs. Minoru Suzuki & Lance Archer & Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Taka Michinoku & Taichi in an elimination match
• Hiroshi Tanahashi & Michael Elgin & Manabu Nakanishi & Ryusuke Taguchi & Dragon Lee vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Seiya Sanada & Bushi & Hiromu Takahashi in an elimination match

Tuesday has the SmackDown & 205 Live tapings in Seattle, with John Cena vs. Randy Orton in a non-title match, plus the plan was for a Neville title defense on the show as well.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/30/2017: Recapping the 2017 Royal Rumble

Given the star power in the match, Randy Orton winning the 2017 Royal Rumble was always going to be underwhelming to some. It was only who he eliminated last that redeemed the moment to most who were disappointed. Orton capped off a solid Rumble match at the Alamodome by last eliminating Roman Reigns, who entered at #30 after interference from Braun Strowman cost him his shot at the Universal Championship earlier in the night… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 6, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble review, Ronda Rousey retired, more

An update on the lineups for WrestleMania, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber, the direction of WWE and how they are getting there, the title situation and why the matches are taking place is the lead story in the new issue of the Observer.

Have a look at the situation with Seth Rollins and his injury, the current WrestleMania lineup, as well as how the next two PPVs will set up WrestleMania.

There is full coverage of the Royal Rumble, with a look at how everyone did, notes on Royal rumble records, match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results, and more.

This issue looks at the John Cena title win, examine how many world title reigns Ric Flair really had and the ones WWE pretends didn’t happen, ticket sales as compared to the 1997 show in the same building, problems with the setup and more.

Examine the probable retirement of Ronda Rousey and her legacy, both good and bad.

Inside has an update on the situation with Conor McGregor and UFC and WWE, as well as the proposed Mayweather fight and the impending battles over contracts that fighters and UFC are likely to be having.

There is full coverage of the San Antonio Takeover show, the NXT awards, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and business notes.

Coverage of the UFC on FOX show as well as examining what lessons can be learned from the ratings, and what’s next for the fighters, is inside.

Look at plans for the 2018 Royal Rumble weekend, Mick Foley update regarding his position as General Manager, Paul Levesque talks working with outside promoters and Matt Riddle, plus we look at Riddle’s pro wrestling background. Plus, also look at the directions planned for upcoming house shows, what types of talent WWE has been contacting for WrestleMania and tournaments, Finn Balor update, notes on this coming weekend’s house shows, plus coverage from the NXT & WWE weekend events, with match highlights and business notes from the shows.

Finally, check out the coverage of the first U.K. prime time live television wrestling event since 1968.

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: January 10, 2000 NJPW Tokyo Dome reviewed, 1999 in revenue for promotions, more

The mixed promotional angle, the very thing that New Japan has specialized in for nearly three decades, looks back in the forefront as representatives from WCW (J.J. Dillon and Paul Orndorff) and RINGS (Akira Maeda) along with Nobuhiko Takada all met with New Japan management in conjunction with the company’s biggest show of the year 1/4 at the Tokyo Dome… Subscribers click here to continue.

MONDAY NEWS UPDATE

Bryan and I will be back tonight covering Raw, The Rock & Roll Express, JDS vs. Miocic and the rest of the news today as well as taking e-mail questions to [email protected].

We also have a complete history of the XFL show up which has a ton about Vince McMahon, Bob Costas, talking about the 30 for 30 special and why the league was formed and lots of stories from that period. I promise, you don’t have to be a football fan to like this show.

Rich Swann missed the weekend shows due to an ankle injury. The original plan was Neville vs. Swann on 205 Live on Tuesday. So that may be changed. Cedric Alexander replaced him in his spot last Tuesday and all weekend.

The expectation is that Seth Rollins situation will be covered on Raw tonight. The company has gone silent on the subject wanting to save it for the show, so we don’t know the situation. But they have to either have somewhat good assurance he’ll be ready for Mania, or start a new direction. Rollins went back to Birmingham yesterday for more evaluation.

Stipe Miocic vs. Junior Dos Santos for the UFC heavyweight title is scheduled for 5/13 in Dallas. Combate in Brazil and MMA Fighting both reported the story this morning.

WWE

• The WWE released story on Ricky Morton & Robert Gibson going into the WWE Hall of Fame, with interviews with both.
• The WWE signed a multi-year deal with Dana Warrior, the widow of Ultimate Warrior. This is part of continuing to market the Ultimate Warrior name, have her be part of the annual Ultimate Warrior Award, etc.
• Some notes about the hidden gems on the WWE network. The Ric Flair vs. Buddy Rogers clip I think has no audio on it. The Funks vs. Bruce Hart & Brian Pillman match did air on television in a one hour show previously in Alberta. I thought it had never been televised. The Bruno Sammartino vs. George Steele cage match that they say is from Madison Square Garden, which I noted couldn’t have been because there was no MSG show that day, was actually from the old Philadelphia Arena on July 25, 1970. It was already released in both Bruno Sammartino and George Steele home videos.
• The company announced yet another event over Mania week, a 4/5 NXT taping at Full Sail University. This will be the day after the Smackdown tapings at the Amway Arena.
• The Pittsburgh City Paper had a story about Trump’s immigration restrictions and Bruno Sammartino. (thanks to Chris Cruise)
• WWE has also added all episodes of Smackdwon from 2008 and 2009 to the network.
• Tajiri is backstage in Portland, OR, so may be on Raw tonight. He’s been out of action with a knee injury.
• A trailer for a Kurt Angle interview is here.
• “Moana” was No. 15 at the box office in the U.S. and No. 9 in Australia this past weekend. (thanks to James Stanios)

MISCELLANEOUS

• Vancouver Island Pro Wrestling from Saturday night in Nanaimo, BC: Haviko b Judas Icarus, Eli Surge b Nolan James, Chelsea Green (Laurel Van Ness in TNA) & Nathan Legacy b Riea Von Slasher & Shreddz, Krofton b Matt Xstatic, Van Slashers beat Good Brothers and BJ Laredo & Scott Steel in a TLC match (thanks to Steven Ashe)
• Over the Top Wrestling from Sunday in Belfast, Northern Ireland before 300 fans: Tucker b Charlie Sterling, Lads from the Flats & Session Moth Martina b Paul Tracey & Jinny Couture & Rene Dupree, Tyler Bate b Jordan Devlin, Kings of the North b The Wards, Matt Riddle b Mark Haskins, Eddie Kingston b Luther Valentine, Pete Dunne b Mark Andrews (said to be a great match). (thanks to John Service)
• Independence Pro on 3/17 in Moosic, PA at the Youth Centre with Lio Rush vs. Matt Cross (Son of Havoc in LU) as the main event plus Matt Tremont vs. Rickey Shane Page.
• The Fite App is airing today a show from the U.K. put on by Insane Championship Wrestling from Newcastle, England with Grado, Drew Galloway, Wolfgang and Trent Seven.
• Oddity Wrestling announced that Penta 0M, Rey Fenix, Daga and Garza Jr. will be working their 2/25 show in San Diego. The show takes place at Borders X Brewing at 5 p.m. on a Saturday, which holds maybe 200 tops, so that all the talent has time for their evening show in Tijuana that night at the Auditorio.
• FCW had a Young Lions tournament show on Saturday in Imperial Beach, CA: Corey Jackson b Guy Cool, Rocketboy D’Marco Wilson b Biagio Crescenzo, Jesse James b Donnie Suarez, Jake Atlas b Brody King, Rocketboy D’Marco Wilson b Corey Jackson, Jesse James b Jake Atlas, Eric Everfly won three-way over Jacob Diez and Seville Alvarez, Jesse James b Rocketboy D’Marco.
• XICW Proving Ground season two on 2/12 at The Ritz in Warren, MI at 5:30 p.m. with Zach Gowen and Kongo Kong, and 2/19 in Algonac, MI at the Winterfest with Zach Gowen and Johnny Devine.
• FEW TV taping from Saturday night in Coral Springs, FL: Reggie Rhythm won Battle Royal, Lea Nox b Arial Monroe, Cody Swift b Tyler Frost, Guadalupe Brothers b Johnny Velvet & Jaxen Blade, Romeo Quevedo b Shane Strickland, Jesse Neal NC Johnny Knockout, Headbangers b Ace Mayhem & MDK
• Kayfabe Dojo Wrestling on 2/11 in Rochester, NY at Pineapple Jack’s. 
• Gerald Brisco will be doing a pro wrestler evaluation on 7/21 at 11:30 a.m. in Waterloo, IA as part of the Tragos/Thesz Hall of Fame weekend. Brisco, the lead talent scout for WWE, only does three of hes each year. Last year, three people from the tryout got WWE invites to attend a tryout for the company. J.J. Dillon will also be evaluating and Brisco will also be doing a seminar and drills. The cost is $150. For those interested, send a resume, with a photo, height, weight, age, name of trainer and career highlights to Troy Peterson at [email protected].
• Slam Wrestling has a lengthy feature on Matt and Mike Sydal.
• An interview with Silas Young is here.
• John Hitchcock talks about his talk on the history of pro wrestling’s glory days in Greensboro.
• This week’s pro wrestling quiz, about A.J. Styles, is here.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

PRE MANIA TAILGATE:

• Who to Blame: Ken Hesser 
• Details from Ken: I ran one prior to the Miami, Atlanta, and last Orlando Manias, and all were well received. Typically, I keep these things really informal, with music, cornhole and refreshments, BYOB or food. Fun should start around 3 PM, so if you’re coming over on the bus, please stop by for a few minutes! PM if you’re coming by! – KennyH75 (I still need a ticket for the show by the way).

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (2/6): Harley Race wins the NWA title

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• NJPW New Beginning in Sapporo live results: Okada vs. Suzuki
• UFC Fight Night 104 live results: Dennis Bermudez vs. Chan Sung Jung
• ‘The Russian Bear’ Ivan Koloff battling liver cancer
• F4W WrestleMania dinner & 11th annual Vegas Convention event info
• Kevin Kelly leaving full-time position with Ring of Honor
• TNA Impact Wrestling results: Open Fight Night returns
• Wrestling Observer/Figure Four Online Pro Wrestling Tees store now open~!

AUDIO

• DragonKing Dark: For What It’s Worth 2/5
• WOR: New Japan and UFC reviews, Ivan Koloff, Seth Rollins, more! 2/5
• WOL: Dr. Lucha, Seth Rollins update, Kevin Kelly and ROH, more! 2/3
• B&V&G: NXT, Raw from Monday, WrestleMania 1, Joke Contest, more! 2/3

Today has the Raw show in Eugene, OR and the SmackDown show in Winnipeg.

Raw will be Monday night from Portland, OR. Both Brock Lesnar and Bill Goldberg are scheduled on the show. There is also a SmackDown brand house show in Abbotsford, BC.

NEW JAPAN AT KORAKUEN HALL AT 4:30 A.M. EASTERN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING FROM KORAKUEN HALL IN TOKYO

• Satoshi Kojima & Yuji Nagata vs. Yoshitatsu & Tomoyuki Oka
• Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Jushin Liger & Tiger Mask vs. Takashi Iizuka & Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Desperado
• Tomoaki Honma & Togi Makabe & Katsuyori Shibata & Juice Robinson & Kushida vs. Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi & Will Ospreay & Gedo & Jado in an elimination match
• Kazuchika Okada & Toru Yano & Tomohiro Ishii & Rocky Romero & Baretta vs. Minoru Suzuki & Lance Archer & Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Taka Michinoku & Taichi in an elimination match
• Hiroshi Tanahashi & Michael Elgin & Manabu Nakanishi & Ryusuke Taguchi & Dragon Lee vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Seiya Sanada & Bushi & Hiromu Takahashi in an elimination match

Tuesday has the SmackDown & 205 Live tapings in Seattle, with John Cena vs. Randy Orton in a non-title match, plus the plan was for a Neville title defense on the show as well.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/30/2017: Recapping the 2017 Royal Rumble

Given the star power in the match, Randy Orton winning the 2017 Royal Rumble was always going to be underwhelming to some. It was only who he eliminated last that redeemed the moment to most who were disappointed. Orton capped off a solid Rumble match at the Alamodome by last eliminating Roman Reigns, who entered at #30 after interference from Braun Strowman cost him his shot at the Universal Championship earlier in the night… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 6, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble review, Ronda Rousey retired, more

An update on the lineups for WrestleMania, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber, the direction of WWE and how they are getting there, the title situation and why the matches are taking place is the lead story in the new issue of the Observer.

Have a look at the situation with Seth Rollins and his injury, the current WrestleMania lineup, as well as how the next two PPVs will set up WrestleMania.

There is full coverage of the Royal Rumble, with a look at how everyone did, notes on Royal rumble records, match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results, and more.

This issue looks at the John Cena title win, examine how many world title reigns Ric Flair really had and the ones WWE pretends didn’t happen, ticket sales as compared to the 1997 show in the same building, problems with the setup and more.

Examine the probable retirement of Ronda Rousey and her legacy, both good and bad.

Inside has an update on the situation with Conor McGregor and UFC and WWE, as well as the proposed Mayweather fight and the impending battles over contracts that fighters and UFC are likely to be having.

There is full coverage of the San Antonio Takeover show, the NXT awards, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and business notes.

Coverage of the UFC on FOX show as well as examining what lessons can be learned from the ratings, and what’s next for the fighters, is inside.

Look at plans for the 2018 Royal Rumble weekend, Mick Foley update regarding his position as General Manager, Paul Levesque talks working with outside promoters and Matt Riddle, plus we look at Riddle’s pro wrestling background. Plus, also look at the directions planned for upcoming house shows, what types of talent WWE has been contacting for WrestleMania and tournaments, Finn Balor update, notes on this coming weekend’s house shows, plus coverage from the NXT & WWE weekend events, with match highlights and business notes from the shows.

Finally, check out the coverage of the first U.K. prime time live television wrestling event since 1968.

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: January 10, 2000 NJPW Tokyo Dome reviewed, 1999 in revenue for promotions, more

The mixed promotional angle, the very thing that New Japan has specialized in for nearly three decades, looks back in the forefront as representatives from WCW (J.J. Dillon and Paul Orndorff) and RINGS (Akira Maeda) along with Nobuhiko Takada all met with New Japan management in conjunction with the company’s biggest show of the year 1/4 at the Tokyo Dome… Subscribers click here to continue.

SUNDAY NEWS UPDATE

Bryan and I will be doing a special show on the XFL and the 30 for 30 documentary tonight. You can send questions about the XFL for the show to [email protected].

Nothing this weekend from MMA or pro wrestling made the Google search list.

The WWE Network on its hidden gems is apparently releasing two never before seen items from the 90s. One was a TV pilot that Konnan was in charge of when he was in WCW for a Latino-based television show where the Mexican stars would be the headliners. That lasted all of one taping. The other was a tribute to Stu Hart show in the 90s that featured major stars of different promotions, held in Calgary with Dory & Terry Funk vs. Bruce Hart & Brian Pillman. Also being released include a 1952 Killer Kowalski vs. Mr. Moto & Duke Keomuka handicap match (I’ve seen that one), a 1966 Dallas match with Joe Blanchard & Cowboy Bob Ellis & Duke Keomuka vs. Bob Geigel & Waldo Von Erich & Gary Hart; a cage match with Bruno Sammartino vs. George Steele from MSG (date listed is July 29, 1970, but there was no MSG show on that date), Bill Watts vs Terry Funk (listed at 1975 from Mid South Wrestling, but it would be Leroy McGuirk’s Championship Wrestling as Mid South wasn’t even formed until years later), an Antonio Inoki vs Stan Hansen match from Calgary in 1979, Ric Flair vs. Buddy Rogers from 1979 in the Carolinas, Kerry Von Erich vs Ernie Ladd from 1981, Lighting Kid vs. Jerry Lynn from GWF in 1992, Edge & Christian vs. Nova & Frankie Kazarian from UPW (I was at that show), Leviathan (Batista) vs. Brock Lesnar from OVW, and a three way from FCW with Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins vs. Roman Reigns. 

Joe Rogan is scheduled to appear on Late Night with Seth Meyers on Thursday night on NBC after Jimmy Fallon (thanks to Jon Southerland)  

Bill Goldberg is doing a three-date series of U.K. talk shows called “You’re Next: An Evening with Bill Goldberg” on 6/26 in Glasgow, 6/27 in Manchester and 7/2 in London.  Inside the Ropes is promoting this.  tickets go on sale at Noon on Friday.

WWE

• Even though John Cena vs. Randy Orton was advertised for Tuesday’s Smackdown tapings in Seattle, the WWE sent out a mailer for tickets this weekend that lists Cena vs. A.J. Styles and Dean Ambrose vs. The Miz as the double main event for the show. Just the usual plans change situation.
• John Layfield will be doing a new “Legends with JBL” show on Wednesday talking with Stan Hansen. Those shows are always interesting.
• One of our longest readers is sadly in end-stage kidney failure and a few weeks ago, into a grueling four hour dialysis session, his phone rang from a private number, which he noted he’d usually not pick up, but for whatever reason, he said he was in the mood to mess with a telemarkter and picked it up. “Cal, this is Stan Hansen, How ya doing?” He had told a friend that when he was eight years old and a baseball fan, watching WTBS, during a rain delay during a Braves game they showed a rerun of Georgia Championship Wrestling. This would be circa 1978. The first pro wrestling match he ever saw was a Stan Hansen squash match, and Hansen became his favorite wrestler. He said all through health problems which plagued him through life, as a kid he was in the emergency room a few times a month, and he was a target of bullies in school, he said the Stan Hansen he saw in Japan represented always moving forward. Through a friend, Hansen heard this story. Hansen told him that he felt he needed to call him and express his appreciation and told him that he’s never called a fan out of the blue before, because he’s a very private person, but said that as he’s gotten older, he’s learned to appreciate what he’s meant to others and Hansen then thanked him. Reader Cal wrote, “Thank me? The guy literally changed how I lived my life, and he was thanking me.”

VARIETY

• There were two serious injuries at the Friday night Rockstar Pro Wrestling fifth anniversary show in Dayton. Mason Cutter suffered a serious leg injury when his legs hit the guard rail doing a backflip off the ring apron. Cutter posted that he broke his right leg in two places and needed a skin graft on his leeft leg. the match, a five team match, continued with the medical staff attending to him. During the same match, Kyle Maverick took a bad bump and was unresponsive. CPR had to be performed and posted on Facebook that he fractured his neck and lower back.   
• AAW from last night in LaSalle, IL before a sellout crowd: Arik Cannon won four-way over Stephen Wolfe, Marion Fontaine and David Starr, Mike Hartenbower b Zicky Dice, Candice LeRae & Samantha Heights b Jessicka Havok & Allysin Kay, DJZ b Kruger (formerly Adam Rose going back to his Leo Kruger gimmick), Davey Vega & Mat Fitchett b Paco & Ace Perry, Dezmond Xavier & Zachary Wentz b Dave & Jake Crist, ACH b Trevor Lee to keep the Heritage title in a good match, Brubaker & Zero Gravity b Buck Nasty & Connor Braxton & Kody Rice, Penta 0M b AR Fox, Sami Callihan b Kongo Kong to keep the AAW title. (thanks to Mike Korn)
• OTT has a show on 4/15 at National Stadium in Dublin with Kenny Omega, Young Bucks, Ricochet, Jay White, Will Ospreay, Ryan Smile and Grado.
• Lucha Xtreme TV from yesterday in Fresno, CA:  Anthony Idol won 8 man Rumble to win the U.S. title, Lukas Riley b Alfonso Alvarez 2/3 falls. They debuted a new heel commissioner called Christopher Donald, who is doing a Donald Trump heel gimmick. He gave their title to Sgt. Major, saying that he didn’t need to have a match or a tournament. (thanks to Jon Southerland)
• World League Wrestling in Troy, MO from last night:  Leland Race b Jayden Fnix-DQ, Karim Brigante b Rex Fults, Superstar Steve Fender b Brandon Espinosa, Stacey O’Brien DCOR Heather Patera, Jon Webb b Kyle Roberts, Karim Brigante won three-way over Superstar Steven Fender and Leland Race to become WLW heavyweight champion. Next show is 3/11 featuring an appearance by Kurt Angle. (thanks to Patrick Brandmeyer)
• Aggression Wrestling on 2/11 in Gibsonville, NC at the Mid Atlantic Sportatorium with Mikael Judas (who was Murphy in TNA) vs. Geter in the main event.
• Some notes about popular Northeast fan Kevin Hogan, who passed away in an auto accident, there will be a viewing on Monday from 5-8 p.m. and Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. at Nativity Church, 2677 Delsea Dr., in Franklinville, NJ, and a service on Tuesday.
• CHIKARA announced this year’s King of Trios tournament will take place 9/1 to 9/3 in Birmingham, England.
• There was a Go Fund Me for medical expenses for Ivan Koloff set up by his daughter.
• Hoosier Pro Wrestling from last night in Columbus, IN before 155 fans: JKO over Cole Radrick and Kenny Cage, Drax O’Brien & Guy Lombardo b El Rayo & Dave the Rave, TVZ over Flash Flanagan and TJ Kemp, Jonathan Wolfe b Shawn Kemp, Scarecrow Eddie Felson b Timmy Danger, Flash Flanagan b Timmy Danger in a loser leaves town match, Cowboy Marc Houston b Dynamite Dillen to keep HPW title. Next show is 3/4 in Columbus, IN. (thanks to Jerry Wilson)
• A great Minoru Suzuki video is here.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

PRE MANIA TAILGATE:

• Who to Blame: Ken Hesser 
• Details from Ken: I ran one prior to the Miami, Atlanta, and last Orlando Manias, and all were well received. Typically, I keep these things really informal, with music, cornhole and refreshments, BYOB or food. Fun should start around 3 PM, so if you’re coming over on the bus, please stop by for a few minutes! PM if you’re coming by! – KennyH75 (I still need a ticket for the show by the way).

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• UFC Fight Night 104 live results: Dennis Bermudez vs. Chan Sung Jung
• ‘The Russian Bear’ Ivan Koloff battling liver cancer
• Kevin Kelly leaving full-time position with Ring of Honor
• TNA Impact Wrestling results: Open Fight Night returns

AUDIO

• WOL: Dr. Lucha, Seth Rollins update, Kevin Kelly and ROH, more! 2/3
• B&V&G: NXT, Raw from Monday, WrestleMania 1, Joke Contest, more! 2/3
• Wrestling Weekly: Rollins goes down, battle royal stories, keeping kayfabe 2/2
• WOL: Raw ratings clarification, WrestleMania card with Dave Meltzer, more! 2/2

We are looking for reports from the Raw brand show in Salt Lake City featuring Brock Lesnar, the SmackDown brand in Grand Forks, ND, ROH in Dallas (Young Bucks vs. Briscoes 2/3 falls, Cody & Adam Cole vs. Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian, Hangman Page vs. Jay Lethal, Dalton Castle vs. Donovan Dijak, Bobby Fish vs. Lio Rush, Matt Taven & Vinnie Marseglia & TK O’Ryan vs. Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley & Jay White for trios titles) and the NXT show in Largo, FL to [email protected]

UFC ON SATURDAY FROM THE TOYOTA CENTER IN HOUSTON

Fight Pass at 7 p.m. ET

• Daniel Jolly (204.5) vs. Khalil Rountree (205)
• Alex Morono (170) vs. Niko Price (170.5)

FS1 at 8 p.m.

• Bec Rawlings (117.5) vs. Tecia Torres (115.5) – Rawlings missed weight and was fined 20 percent of her purse
• Ricardo Lucas Ramos (135) vs. Michinori Tanaka (135)
• Chris Gruetzemacher (145) vs. Chas Skelly (146)
• Curtis Blaydes (264.5) vs. Adam Milstead (233.5)
• Jessica Andrade (115.5) vs. Angela Hill (116)
• Marcel Fortuna (210.5) vs. Anthony Hamilton (258.5)
• Volkan Oezdemir (206) vs. Ovince Saint Preux (205)
• Abel Trujillo (156) vs. James Vick (155.5)
• Alexa Grasso (116) vs. Felice Herrig (115.5)
• Dennis Bermudez (145.5) vs. Chan Sung Jung (145.5)

NEW JAPAN NEW BEGINNING IN SAPPORO AT 1 A.M. EASTERN TIME LATE SATURDAY NIGHT ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

• Kushida & Hirai Kawato vs. Desperado & Yoshinobu Kanemaru
• Yuji Nagata & Satoshi Kojima & Hiroyoshi Tenzan vs. Henare & Yoshitatsu & Tomoyuki Oka
• Tiger Mask & Jushin Liger & Katsuyori Shibata vs. Gedo & Jado & Will Ospreay
• Yoshi-Hashi vs. Takashi Iizuka
• Hiroshi Tanahashi & Michael Elgin & Manabu Nakanishi & Ryusuke Taguchi & Dragon Lee vs. Tetsuya Naito & Seiya Sanada & Evil & Bushi & Hiromu Takahashi
• Rocky Romero & Baretta vs Taka Michinoku & Taichi for IWGP jr. tag titles
• Hirooki Goto vs. Juice Robinson for Never Open weight title
• Toru Yano & Tomohiro Ishii vs. Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma vs. Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Lance Archer for IWGP tag team titles
• Kazuchika Okada vs. Minoru Suzuki for IWGP heavyweight title

Sunday has the Raw show in Eugene, OR and the SmackDown show in Winnipeg.

Raw will be Monday night from Portland, OR. Both Brock Lesnar and Bill Goldberg are scheduled on the show. There is also a SmackDown brand house show in Abbotsford, BC.

NEW JAPAN AT KORAKUEN HALL AT 4:30 A.M. EASTERN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING FROM KORAKUEN HALL IN TOKYO

• Satoshi Kojima & Yuji Nagata vs. Yoshitatsu & Tomoyuki Oka
• Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Jushin Liger & Tiger Mask vs. Takashi Iizuka & Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Desperado
• Tomoaki Honma & Togi Makabe & Katsuyori Shibata & Juice Robinson & Kushida vs. Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi & Will Ospreay & Gedo & Jado in an elimination match
• Kazuchika Okada & Toru Yano & Tomohiro Ishii & Rocky Romero & Baretta vs. Minoru Suzuki & Lance Archer & Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Taka Michinoku & Taichi in an elimination match
• Hiroshi Tanahashi & Michael Elgin & Manabu Nakanishi & Ryusuke Taguchi & Dragon Lee vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Seiya Sanada & Bushi & Hiromu Takahashi in an elimination match

Tuesday has the SmackDown & 205 Live tapings in Seattle, with John Cena vs. Randy Orton in a non-title match, plus the plan was for a Neville title defense on the show as well.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/30/2017: Recapping the 2017 Royal Rumble

Given the star power in the match, Randy Orton winning the 2017 Royal Rumble was always going to be underwhelming to some. It was only who he eliminated last that redeemed the moment to most who were disappointed. Orton capped off a solid Rumble match at the Alamodome by last eliminating Roman Reigns, who entered at #30 after interference from Braun Strowman cost him his shot at the Universal Championship earlier in the night… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 6, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble review, Ronda Rousey retired, more

An update on the lineups for WrestleMania, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber, the direction of WWE and how they are getting there, the title situation and why the matches are taking place is the lead story in the new issue of the Observer.

Have a look at the situation with Seth Rollins and his injury, the current WrestleMania lineup, as well as how the next two PPVs will set up WrestleMania.

There is full coverage of the Royal Rumble, with a look at how everyone did, notes on Royal rumble records, match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results, and more.

This issue looks at the John Cena title win, examine how many world title reigns Ric Flair really had and the ones WWE pretends didn’t happen, ticket sales as compared to the 1997 show in the same building, problems with the setup and more.

Examine the probable retirement of Ronda Rousey and her legacy, both good and bad.

Inside has an update on the situation with Conor McGregor and UFC and WWE, as well as the proposed Mayweather fight and the impending battles over contracts that fighters and UFC are likely to be having.

There is full coverage of the San Antonio Takeover show, the NXT awards, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and business notes.

Coverage of the UFC on FOX show as well as examining what lessons can be learned from the ratings, and what’s next for the fighters, is inside.

Look at plans for the 2018 Royal Rumble weekend, Mick Foley update regarding his position as General Manager, Paul Levesque talks working with outside promoters and Matt Riddle, plus we look at Riddle’s pro wrestling background. Plus, also look at the directions planned for upcoming house shows, what types of talent WWE has been contacting for WrestleMania and tournaments, Finn Balor update, notes on this coming weekend’s house shows, plus coverage from the NXT & WWE weekend events, with match highlights and business notes from the shows.

Finally, check out the coverage of the first U.K. prime time live television wrestling event since 1968.

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: January 10, 2000 NJPW Tokyo Dome reviewed, 1999 in revenue for promotions, more

The mixed promotional angle, the very thing that New Japan has specialized in for nearly three decades, looks back in the forefront as representatives from WCW (J.J. Dillon and Paul Orndorff) and RINGS (Akira Maeda) along with Nobuhiko Takada all met with New Japan management in conjunction with the company’s biggest show of the year 1/4 at the Tokyo Dome… Subscribers click here to continue.

SATURDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

• NXT referee Danilo Anfibio was given a sendoff at last night’s house show in St. Augustine, Florida as he moves up to the SmackDown roster.
• Charles Robinson revealed in an interview on WWE.com that he tore his plantar fascia while refereeing John Cena vs. AJ Styles at the Royal Rumble and reflected on what it was like to be there for Cena’s 16th title win.
• Last night’s Raw brand house show in Broomfield, Colorado was main evented by Kevin Owens vs. Big Show in a non-title street fight since both Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns weren’t on the card.
• Hideo Itami continued teasing his return to NXT on Twitter today: “See you soon. @WWENXT”
• WWE.com has an article on the wrestlers at this week’s Performance Center tryouts.
• Heidi Lovelace, Kimber Lee, and Andrea spoke about starting with WWE.
• WWE’s YouTube channel looks at the top 10 Elimination Chamber match eliminations.

Pro Wrestling

• Bret Hart is 100 percent recovered from prostate cancer.
• Don Callis makes his debut calling New Japan Pro Wrestling tonight/into tomorrow morning as he’ll be calling the New Beginning in Sapporo with Kevin Kelly. The show will be headlined by Kazuchika Okada defending the IWGP Heavyweight Championship against Minoru Suzuki.
• Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks, Ricochet, and Will Ospreay will be appearing for OTT Wrestling at a big show in Ireland on April 15th at National Stadium. The promotion also had a show today with Drew Galloway making a surprise appearance and Mark Haskins wrestling for the first time since taking time off with a neck injury last year.
• This week’s Open Fight Night episode of TNA Impact was watched by 299k viewers on average on Pop TV, which is down slightly from last week’s 307k.
• WGRZ in Buffalo, New York did an extended story on Lex Luger that looks at his career and where he’s at now in life. All four parts of their interview with him are available to watch.

UFC/MMA

• Dana White told USA Today Sports that he’s waiting on hearing back from Nate Diaz on a fight that the company offered him. Diaz posted a tweet seemingly responding to White: “Lol at your fight…”
• Eddie Alvarez hinted that he’ll be returning to the Octagon soon.
• Michael Page vs. Paul Daley is being targeted for Bellator’s show in London in May.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

PRE MANIA TAILGATE:

• Who to Blame: Ken Hesser 
• Details from Ken: I ran one prior to the Miami, Atlanta, and last Orlando Manias, and all were well received. Typically, I keep these things really informal, with music, cornhole and refreshments, BYOB or food. Fun should start around 3 PM, so if you’re coming over on the bus, please stop by for a few minutes! PM if you’re coming by! – KennyH75 (I still need a ticket for the show by the way).

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (2/4): ECW Double Tables 1995

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• Kevin Kelly leaving full-time position with Ring of Honor
• TNA Impact Wrestling results: Open Fight Night returns
• WWE NXT results: Corey Graves says goodbye to NXT
• NXT TV taping spoilers: Kassius Ohno sets his sights on what’s next
• WWE advertising Brock Lesnar vs. Kevin Owens for MSG house show
• SmackDown ratings get a big bump for post-Royal Rumble episode

AUDIO

• WOL: Dr. Lucha, Seth Rollins update, Kevin Kelly and ROH, more! 2/3
• B&V&G: NXT, Raw from Monday, WrestleMania 1, Joke Contest, more! 2/3
• Wrestling Weekly: Rollins goes down, battle royal stories, keeping kayfabe 2/2
• WOR: Rollins update, John Cena Mania match, NXT tapings, Rousey future, more! 2/2

We’re looking for reports on the WWE Raw show tonight in Broomfield, CO, the NXT show in St. Augustine, FL and the ROH show tonight in San Antonio (Adam Cole & Young Bucks & Hangman Page vs. Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley & Lio Rush & Jay White, Cody vs. Donovan Dijak, Dalton Castle vs. Jay Lethal vs. Bobby Fish (winner in line for an ROH title match), Mark & Jay Briscoe vs. Shane Taylor & Keith Lee, Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian vs. Sho & Yo, Matt Taven & Vinnie Marseglia & TK O’Ryan vs. War Machine & Jax Dane for trios titles) to [email protected].

We’re also doing a poll on the late tomorrow night New Japan New Beginning in Sapporo, with thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected].

NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING AT 8 P.M. EASTERN TIME TONIGHT ON AXS TV

This is the final show from this year’s Tokyo Dome card

• Cody Rhodes vs. Juice Robinson
• Young Bucks vs. Rocky Romero & Baretta for IWGP jr. tag titles
• Kushida vs. Hiromu Takahashi for IWGP jr. title

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

• Electrico & Shockercito vs. Nitrito & Pequeno Olimpico
• Fuego & Pegasso & Soberano Jr. vs. Disturbio & Okumura & Virus
• Los Revolucionarios vs. Drone & Guerrero Maya Jr. & Rey Cometa
• Titan vs. Cavernario
• Angel de Oro & Marco Corleone & Maximo Sexy vs. Mascara Ano 2000 & Cuatrero & Sanson
• Atlantis & Diamante Azul & Volador Jr. vs. Rush & La Mascara & Pierroth

We’ll be looking for reports on Saturday from the Raw brand show in Salt Lake City featuring Brock Lesnar, the Smackdown brand in Grand Forks, ND, ROH in Dallas (Young Bucks vs Briscoes 2/3 falls, Cody & Adam Cole vs. Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian, Hangman Page vs. Jay Lethal, Dalton Castle vs. Donovan Dijak, Bobby Fish vs. Lio Rush, Matt Taven & Vinnie Marseglia & TK O’Ryan vs. Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley & Jay White for trios titles) and the NXT show in Largo, FL to [email protected].

UFC ON SATURDAY FROM THE TOYOTA CENTER IN HOUSTON

Fight Pass at 7 p.m. Eastern time

• Daniel Jolly (204.5) vs. Khalil Rountree (205)
• Alex Morono (170) vs. Niko Price (170.5)

FS 1 at 8 p.m.

• Bec Rawlings (117.5) vs. Tecia Torres (115.5) – Rawlings missed weight and was fined 20 percent of her purse
• Ricardo Lucas Ramos (135) vs. Michinori Tanaka (135)
• Chris Gruetzemacher (145) vs. Chas Skelly (146)
• Curtis Blaydes (264.5) vs. Adam Milstead (233.5)
• Jessica Andrade (115.5) vs. Angela Hill (116)
• Marcel Fortuna (210.5) vs. Anthony Hamilton (258.5)
• Volkan Oezdemir (206) vs. Ovince Saint Preux (205)
• Abel Trujillo (156) vs. James Vick (155.5)
• Alexa Grasso (116) vs. Felice Herrig (115.5)
• Dennis Bermudez (145.5) vs. Chan Sung Jung (145.5)

NEW JAPAN NEW BEGINNING IN SAPPORO AT 1 A.M. EASTERN TIME LATE SATURDAY NIGHT ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

• Kushida & Hirai Kawato vs. Desperado & Yoshinobu Kanemaru
• Yuji Nagata & Satoshi Kojima & Hiroyoshi Tenzan vs. Henare & Yoshitatsu & Tomoyuki Oka
• Tiger Mask & Jushin Liger & Katsuyori Shibata vs. Gedo & Jado & Will Ospreay
• Yoshi-Hashi vs. Takashi Iizuka
• Hiroshi Tanahashi & Michael Elgin & Manabu Nakanishi & Ryusuke Taguchi & Dragon Lee vs. Tetsuya Naito & Seiya Sanada & Evil & Bushi & Hiromu Takahashi
• Rocky Romero & Baretta vs Taka Michinoku & Taichi for IWGP jr. tag titles
• Hirooki Goto vs. Juice Robinson for Never Open weight title
• Toru Yano & Tomohiro Ishii vs. Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma vs. Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Lance Archer for IWGP tag team titles
• Kazuchika Okada vs. Minoru Suzuki for IWGP heavyweight title

Sunday has the Raw show in Eugene, OR and the Smackdown show in Winnipeg.

Raw will be Monday night from Portland, OR. Both Brock Lesnar and Bill Goldberg are scheduled on the show. There is also a Smackdown brand house show in Abbotsford, BC.

NEW JAPAN AT KORAKUEN HALL AT 4:30 A.M. EASTERN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING FROM KORAKUEN HALL IN TOKYO

• Satoshi Kojima & Yuji Nagata vs. Yoshitatsu & Tomoyuki Oka
• Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Jushin Liger & Tiger Mask vs. Takashi Iizuka & Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Desperado
• Tomoaki Honma & Togi Makabe & Katsuyori Shibata & Juice Robinson & Kushida vs. Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi & Will Ospreay & Gedo & Jado in an elimination match
• Kazuchika Okada & Toru Yano & Tomohiro Ishii & Rocky Romero & Baretta vs. Minoru Suzuki & Lance Archer & Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Taka Michinoku & Taichi in an elimination match
• Hiroshi Tanahashi & Michael Elgin & Manabu Nakanishi & Ryusuke Taguchi & Dragon Lee vs. Tetsuya Naito & Evil & Seiya Sanada & Bushi & Hiromu Takahashi in an elimination match

Tuesday has the Smackdown & 205 Live tapings in Seattle, with John Cena vs. Randy Orton in a non-title match, plus the plan was for a Neville title defense on the show as well.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/30/2017: Recapping the 2017 Royal Rumble

Given the star power in the match, Randy Orton winning the 2017 Royal Rumble was always going to be underwhelming to some. It was only who he eliminated last that redeemed the moment to most who were disappointed. Orton capped off a solid Rumble match at the Alamodome by last eliminating Roman Reigns, who entered at #30 after interference from Braun Strowman cost him his shot at the Universal Championship earlier in the night… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 6, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble review, Ronda Rousey retired, more

An update on the lineups for WrestleMania, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber, the direction of WWE and how they are getting there, the title situation and why the matches are taking place is the lead story in the new issue of the Observer.

Have a look at the situation with Seth Rollins and his injury, the current WrestleMania lineup, as well as how the next two PPVs will set up WrestleMania.

There is full coverage of the Royal Rumble, with a look at how everyone did, notes on Royal rumble records, match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results, and more.

This issue looks at the John Cena title win, examine how many world title reigns Ric Flair really had and the ones WWE pretends didn’t happen, ticket sales as compared to the 1997 show in the same building, problems with the setup and more.

Examine the probable retirement of Ronda Rousey and her legacy, both good and bad.

Inside has an update on the situation with Conor McGregor and UFC and WWE, as well as the proposed Mayweather fight and the impending battles over contracts that fighters and UFC are likely to be having.

There is full coverage of the San Antonio Takeover show, the NXT awards, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and business notes.

Coverage of the UFC on FOX show as well as examining what lessons can be learned from the ratings, and what’s next for the fighters, is inside.

Look at plans for the 2018 Royal Rumble weekend, Mick Foley update regarding his position as General Manager, Paul Levesque talks working with outside promoters and Matt Riddle, plus we look at Riddle’s pro wrestling background. Plus, also look at the directions planned for upcoming house shows, what types of talent WWE has been contacting for WrestleMania and tournaments, Finn Balor update, notes on this coming weekend’s house shows, plus coverage from the NXT & WWE weekend events, with match highlights and business notes from the shows.

Finally, check out the coverage of the first U.K. prime time live television wrestling event since 1968.

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: January 10, 2000 NJPW Tokyo Dome reviewed, 1999 in revenue for promotions, more

The mixed promotional angle, the very thing that New Japan has specialized in for nearly three decades, looks back in the forefront as representatives from WCW (J.J. Dillon and Paul Orndorff) and RINGS (Akira Maeda) along with Nobuhiko Takada all met with New Japan management in conjunction with the company’s biggest show of the year 1/4 at the Tokyo Dome… Subscribers click here to continue.

FRIDAY NEWS UPDATE

For the WWE house shows this week, Roman Reigns was originally off the cards, but with the injury to Seth Rollins, he’s been a late addition in Broomfield and Eugene. He’s not listed for Salt Lake City, but if he’s going to be in Colorado on a Friday and Oregon on a Sunday, going home in between doesn’t make a lot of sense. Brock Lesnar is booked in Salt Lake City. Chris Jericho is not listed for this weekend. For the Smackdown brand, John Cena and Randy Orton both have the weekend off but return for television.

We are sad to report the death of Tom Drake, at 86, a former pro wrestler who was the Speaker of the House in Alabama. Drake passed away yesterday morning. He wrestled in college, at one time was a member of Bear Bryant’s staff with Alabama football, wrestled in Alabama mostly in the 60s and 70s, was a lawyer, and then a politician. He was a member of the Alabama House of Representatives from 1960 to 1992, and was an active wrestler during his early terms.

The “This was the XFL” special last night on ESPN did 917,000 viewers, which is a good number for such a show.

The U.S. freestyle wrestling team, which includes 2016 gold medalist Kyle Snyder and 2012 gold medalist Jordan Burroughs, was banned from competing in the World Cup on 2/16 and 2/17 since the event is held in Iran. Iran’s retaliation for Donald Trump’s banning citizens from coming to the U.S. saw Iran retaliate by limiting Americans who can come into Iran.

An update on the Kevin Kelly situation is that he had to make a choice between keeping his full-time office job with ROH or his commitment to New Japan, as New Japan wanted him in Japan for the entire week this coming week. So he chose New Japan, which pays well, well enough to get Don Callis back into a business that he pretty much walked away from 15 years ago. Kelly is expected to still be used as on-air talent by ROH.

WWE

• The only thing new on Seth Rollins is that his situation is to be discussed on Raw. 
• A story on Ric Flair at the Wing Bowl in Philadelphia is here.
• Sgt. Slaughter talks his heel run

UFC / MMA

• Jake Shields has gotten a good deal of local publicity for an incident on Wednesday. During a protest at the University of California at Berkeley over right-wing commentator Milo Yiannopoulos speaking (he had been invited by the Berkeley College Republicans, a riot broke out and the event was canceled). Shields was there and saw someone being beaten up and the police not assisting. Shields and his girlfriend were out to dinner near the school where he saw a man with a Trump hat bloodied up and being beaten up. Shields jumped in. Eventually there were too many people and too many weapons. He tried to get the police to intervene but said that they wouldn’t. He received no serious injuries.
• Ariel Helwani reported today at the next FOX show will be on 4/15 from the Sprint Center in Kansas City, which is the company’s debut in that market. He also reported a 6/3 PPV show will take place from Brazil, and that during UFC Fight Week in July in Las Vegas, there will be a Fight Pass show on 7/7, an FS 1 show on 7/8 which will be the Ultimate Fighter finals, and that the big summer PPV will be 7/8. There is also a 9/9 PPV show scheduled for somewhere in Canada and that the year end show will be 12/30 in Las Vegas.
• Luiz Henrique has been pulled from his 2/11 fight with Marcin Tybura in Brooklyn due to a medical issue involving the New York State Athletic Commission. Henrique noted he’s been cleared everywhere with the issue.
• Germaine de Randamie is doing a great job promoting her 2/11 fight with Holly Holm in Brooklyn, all over Holland this past week. She has been on some prominent television shows in that country. The key takes is that she can’t live on her UFC money and works an other job, and is also going to school to become a policewoman. She came off incredibly well on the shows. (thanks to Henk Mulder)
• Liz Carmouche pulled out of her 2/19 fight with Sara McMann due to an injury. Gina Mazany, who lost to Julianna Pena on The Ultimate Fighter and never fought in UFC after, will make her official debut in place of Carmouche. Also announced for that show is Alex Volkanovski vs. Michel Quinones. Volkanovski has fought once in UFC and Quinones will be making his debut.
• A correction from the new issue of the Observer. We noted that the 3/18 show in London is the first complete Fight Pass show in a long time. Actually there was one in December from Albany, NY.

VARIETY

• Vice has a major story on Kenny Omega.
• Tammy Sytch was released from the Carbon County Correctional Facility today after being held since September after a plea bargain to charges of possession of alcohol, and being under the influence of alcohol, both of which were violations of her probation.
• The World Series of Fighting announced a 3/18 show at The Theater in Madison Square Garden with Blagoy Ivanov defending the heavyweight title against former UFC star Shawn Jordan, Lance Palmer defending the featherweight title against Andre Harrison and Timur Valiev vs. Bekbulat Magomedov for the bantamweight title. The latter fight announcement means that Marlon Moraes is no longer champion. His contract expired and he’s moving on.
• A story on the Fertittas and possibly being involved with the Raiders coming to Las Vegas.
• A show tomorrow night at 7:30 p.m. in Pompano Beach, FL at the Elks Lodge 1898 features Jon Davis vs. Michael Tarver and MVP vs. Drew Donovan.
• NFC MMA on 2/18 at Center Stage in Atlanta with Lawson McClure vs. Nathan Williams for the NFC featherweight title. They are also running 3/24 in Kennesaw, GA at the Electric Cowboy with Dave Vitkay vs. Jeremie Holloway and 4/8 in Greenville, SC at the TD Convention Center with Jared Scoggins vs. Juan Puerta.
• Bellator announced Andrey Koreshkov, the former welterweight champion, facing Fernando Gonzalez, and Chris Honeycutt vs. Kendall Grove for a 3/3 show in Thackerville, OK. The show is headlined by Marloes Coenen vs. Julia Budd to create the first Bellator women’s featherweight champion.
• There is a story about the 60-year tradition of pro wrestling in Worthing, England at the Assembly Hall could be over. Promoter John Freemantle, who has been running shows in the city since 1994, said the costs have changed and are now three or four times higher than the deal he used to have, and said it’s no longer economically viable to run with those costs. He had the same deal since 1994 and said that “I have had meetings with them but it’s become fairly obvious it’s nonnegotiable.” He said he’s got two shows left on the old deal, on 2/20 and 4/10. (thanks to Tony Earnshaw) 
• Cody Rhodes talks WWE wrestlers’ knowledge of the indie scene. On leaving WWE on his own accord: “I’ve done everything and more I was hoping to do, a lot of these independent groups come across like independents, they come across as brands. It’s cool that I’ve done the more smaller independent shows, but also the larger companies too, last year I wrestled at WrestleMania, Pro Wrestling Guerrilla’s Battle of Los Angeles, TNA’s Bound For Glory, Ring of Honor’s Final Battle and then obviously I did New Japan Pro Wrestling’s Wrestle Kingdom, so the statistic is rather staggering for me, to have a period of these events coming so fast in a featured way, it ways heavily on my mind because you want each to be good.”
• Jim Ross promoted his WrestleMania weekend show in Orlando. On WWE using older wrestlers to build the product: “They’re using some guys with some miles on the tires — I’m not saying if the tires are treadless or not. But there’s two ways to use those veterans.You can use them against each other, get more eyeballs on the product and expose the younger talents in other ways, or you can figure out the way for the veterans to best give the rub to younger guys. WWE is doing a nice job of that right now.”
• A story on Abyss going from a Master’s Degree and college football to TNA.
• A story about former indie wrestler Duke Snyder and Nazi leanings is in the New York Times.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

PRE MANIA TAILGATE:

• Who to Blame: Ken Hesser 
• Details from Ken: I ran one prior to the Miami, Atlanta, and last Orlando Manias, and all were well received. Typically, I keep these things really informal, with music, cornhole and refreshments, BYOB or food. Fun should start around 3 PM, so if you’re coming over on the bus, please stop by for a few minutes! PM if you’re coming by! – KennyH75 (I still need a ticket for the show by the way).

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (2/3): The end of the Mega Powers

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• WWE NXT results: Corey Graves says goodbye to NXT
• NXT TV taping spoilers: Kassius Ohno sets his sights on what’s next
• WWE advertising Brock Lesnar vs. Kevin Owens for MSG house show
• SmackDown ratings get a big bump for post-Royal Rumble episode
• Seth Rollins suffers an injury during his brawl with Samoa Joe on Raw
• WWE SmackDown video highlights: Dean Ambrose vs. AJ Styles

AUDIO

• Wrestling Weekly: Rollins goes down, battle royal stories, keeping kayfabe 2/2
• WOL: Raw ratings clarification, WrestleMania card with Dave Meltzer, more! 2/2
• WOR: Rollins update, John Cena Mania match, NXT tapings, Rousey future, more! 2/2
• F4D: Seth Rollins, Royal Rumble, Smackdown, Impact, more! 2/1

TNA IMPACT ON POP TV AT 8 P.M. EASTERN TIME

• Bobby Lashley vs. Jeff Hardy for TNA title
• Drew Galloway vs. Moose for the Grand championship
• Ethan Carter III vs. Eli Drake

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/30/2017: Recapping the 2017 Royal Rumble

Given the star power in the match, Randy Orton winning the 2017 Royal Rumble was always going to be underwhelming to some. It was only who he eliminated last that redeemed the moment to most who were disappointed. Orton capped off a solid Rumble match at the Alamodome by last eliminating Roman Reigns, who entered at #30 after interference from Braun Strowman cost him his shot at the Universal Championship earlier in the night… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 6, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble review, Ronda Rousey retired, more

An update on the lineups for WrestleMania, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber, the direction of WWE and how they are getting there, the title situation and why the matches are taking place is the lead story in the new issue of the Observer.

Have a look at the situation with Seth Rollins and his injury, the current WrestleMania lineup, as well as how the next two PPVs will set up WrestleMania.

There is full coverage of the Royal Rumble, with a look at how everyone did, notes on Royal rumble records, match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results, and more.

This issue looks at the John Cena title win, examine how many world title reigns Ric Flair really had and the ones WWE pretends didn’t happen, ticket sales as compared to the 1997 show in the same building, problems with the setup and more.

Examine the probable retirement of Ronda Rousey and her legacy, both good and bad.

Inside has an update on the situation with Conor McGregor and UFC and WWE, as well as the proposed Mayweather fight and the impending battles over contracts that fighters and UFC are likely to be having.

There is full coverage of the San Antonio Takeover show, the NXT awards, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and business notes.

Coverage of the UFC on FOX show as well as examining what lessons can be learned from the ratings, and what’s next for the fighters, is inside.

Look at plans for the 2018 Royal Rumble weekend, Mick Foley update regarding his position as General Manager, Paul Levesque talks working with outside promoters and Matt Riddle, plus we look at Riddle’s pro wrestling background. Plus, also look at the directions planned for upcoming house shows, what types of talent WWE has been contacting for WrestleMania and tournaments, Finn Balor update, notes on this coming weekend’s house shows, plus coverage from the NXT & WWE weekend events, with match highlights and business notes from the shows.

Finally, check out the coverage of the first U.K. prime time live television wrestling event since 1968.

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: January 10, 2000 NJPW Tokyo Dome reviewed, 1999 in revenue for promotions, more

The mixed promotional angle, the very thing that New Japan has specialized in for nearly three decades, looks back in the forefront as representatives from WCW (J.J. Dillon and Paul Orndorff) and RINGS (Akira Maeda) along with Nobuhiko Takada all met with New Japan management in conjunction with the company’s biggest show of the year 1/4 at the Tokyo Dome… Subscribers click here to continue.

THURSDAY NEWS UPDATE

The much talked about ESPN 30 for 30 show “This is the XFL” debuts tonight at 9 p.m. Eastern time. Vince McMahon was interviewed and is prominently featured. Charlie Ebersol, the son of Dick Ebersol, who co-owned the promotion with Vince, put this together. The show was gotten mixed reviews from those who have seen the screener. A trailer for the special is here. Awful Announcing’s review of the show is here. Here is he AV Club review. Sports lllustrated looks at it here.

There’s more controversy in the AAA situation with Pentagon Jr. & Fenix. AAA is attempting to now trademark Penta el 0M and Fenix El Rey, which are the latest names they have been using. They never used those names in AAA, and the attempt is to prevent them from using those names in the U.S. and in Mexico. AAA already trademarked Rey Fenix, even though a character in Puerto Rico had used it previously and Fenix had never used it in AAA.

The Bellator show on 3/31 headlined by Rampage Jackson vs. King Mo Lawal is scheduled for the All-State Arena in Chicago.

The Hardys have been announced for the WrestleMania tailgate party put on by WWN from 11 a.m. to 6 pm. that Sunday outside of Saddle Up in Orlando. The event will include two live shows, one from ACW and one from FIP. It’s $30 for a GA ticket to both shows while extra for autograph sessions with the Hardys, Senior Benjamin, King Maxel and Rebecca.

Kevin Nash will be undergoing surgery for a torn rotator cuff and torn labrum.

WWE

• The Squared Circle Sirens web site noted a number of names at the current 42 women WWE tryouts this week. Among the names there are Nicole Matthews, Miranda Salinas, Hyaneyoung, Renee Michelle, Anna Theresa (who won the Ms. New York beauty pageant this past year), fitness competitor Stephanie Rowe and Lei’d Tapa.
• David Otunga will be appearing on the CBS TV show “Criminal Minds” on 2/8, playing a nightclub bouncer.
• While John Cena is not in a Super Bowl commercial, his voice will be in this commercial on Sunday.

• A very interesting story about Chyna and her death, in some ways very much exaggerated regarding her cultural influence and almost treating wrestling like it was real, is here. I mean, the idea that if it wasn’t for Chyna, there would be no Ronda Rousey is more than ridiculous.

UFC / MMA

• Misha Cirkunov and Rick Story, who were both ranked fighters, were removed from the UFC rankings this week because neither man is under contract any longer with UFC. 
• Justin Ledet, who was to face Dmitry Sosnovskiy on Saturday’s show in Houston is off the record because of issues stemming from a USADA drug test taken on 1/12 that came back yesterday.
• Kyle Bochniak vs. Godofredo Pepey has been added to the 3/11 show in Fortaleza, Brazil.

MISCELLANEOUS

• While this is a football story regarding the Super Bowl on Sunday, it kind of debunks a lot of the “economic benefits” of major sports events coming to a community that are touted.

• New Japan Pro Wrestling has launched its new English language web site.

• The prison in Smyrna, DE, that was in the news yesterday for the standoff between inmates and authorities was the prison that J.J. Dillon had worked in. Dillon retired on 12/1, and knew many of the people involved.
• The final New Japan Tokyo Dome show on AXS will air tomorrow night with Cody Rhodes vs. Juice Robinson, Young Bucks vs. Trent Baretta & Rocky Romero for the IWGP jr. tag titles and Kushida vs. Hiromu Takahashi for the IWGP jr. title.
• An excerpt from the soon to be released autobiography of April Mendez (A.J. Lee), talking about her battles with being bipolar, is here.
• On the audio show Monday night, regarding the George Best goal I saw when he played for the San Jose Earthquakes, considered the greatest goal of its time in North America, this is that goal.
• The Legacy Fighting Alliance runs 3/10 in San Antonio at Cowboys Dance Hall is headlined by Rivaldo Junior vs. Ray Rodriguez plus Larry Crowe vs. former University of Alabama linebacker Eryk Anders,and Jiu Jitsu expert Mackenzie Dern vs. Katherine Roy. The show will air live on AXS right after New Japan Pro Wrestling.
• Lynn Denton will host a seminar on 2/16 in Winnipeg at the India & Metis Friendship Centre from 4-10 p.m. for $20. For more info go to [email protected]. There’s a ton of grassroots experience from him having worked all over the country and as a long-term successful booker as well.
• wXw Superstars of Wrestling on 3/13 in Oberhausen, Germany has announced Pentagon Jr., Drago Angelico, Fenix, Matt Riddle plus a guest appearance by Vampiro.
• Chuck Liddell has a lead role on a movie called “Chokehold” that also stars Thomas Q. Jones and Denise Richards.
• Fighting Evolution Wrestling on 2/4 in Coral Springs FL at the High School Gym.
• An old friend of mine, Loren Mack, has been named Vice President of PR and Communications for the One promotion based in Singapore.
• A show called Wolves at the Door on 4/7 for Defy Wrestling in Seattle at the Washington Hall is headlined by Penta el 0M (Pentagon Jr.) vs, Davey Richards.
• WRGZ TV, Ch. 2 in Buffalo, the NBC affiliate, is doing a news feature that will run on the 6 p.m. news tomorrow night called “The Reign, Ruin and Redemption of Lex Luger.” (thanks to Greg Beitel)
• Hulk Hogan is opening up a second store in Orlando to be ready for WrestleMania weekend, which probably tells you what everyone already knows. The store will be located on I-Drive.
• Jim Ross’ autobiography called “Slobberknocker: My Life in Wrestling,” will be released on 10/2 through Sports Publishing. Ross and Paul O’Brien co-wrote the book that will cover his life through the late 90s, with the idea of a second book down the line.
• Today is Teddy Hart’s 37th birthday. Teddy is the poster boy for wasted potential.
• Kevin Hogan, a Northeastern wrestling fan, passed away earlier today in a car accident in Woodstown, NJ. PW Insider reported that a tractor trailer heading East collided with his car. We would like to offer sympathies to his family and friends.
• Future Stars of Wrestling on 3/12 in Las Vegas at Sam’s Town Live features Matt Hardy, Brian Cage, Davey Richards, Eli Drake Sami Callihan, Angelina Love, Shane Strickland, Willie Mack, Keith Lee, Kevin Kross, Davey Boy Smith Jr. and Lance Archer.
• AAW on Saturday in LaSalle, IL at the Knights of Columbus has Sami Callihan vs. Kongo Kong for the AAW title, ACH vs. Trevor Lee for the AAW Heritage title, Penta El 0M vs. AR Fox, Dave & Jake Crist vs. Dezmond Xavier & Zachary Wentz, Jessicka Havok & Allysin Kay vs. Candice LeRae & Samantha Heights and DJZ vs. Aldo (formerly Adam) Rose.
• A really good match to check out from last week’s NOAH show in Osaka with Kenou & Masa Kitamiya vs Go Shiozaki & Maybach Taniguchi from the January 21st show.  (thanks to Greg Delaney)
• Kevin Eck has a story on the Hardys reinventing themselves.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (2/2): The Midnight Express win NWA tag team gold

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• WWE advertising Brock Lesnar vs. Kevin Owens for MSG house show
• SmackDown ratings get a big bump for post-Royal Rumble episode
• Seth Rollins suffers an injury during his brawl with Samoa Joe on Raw
• WWE SmackDown video highlights: Dean Ambrose vs. AJ Styles
• Two more title matches set for WWE Elimination Chamber
• WWE 205 Live results: Akira Tozawa debuts
• WWE reveals John Cena’s Elimination Chamber title challengers
• WWE SmackDown live results: The build to Elimination Chamber

AUDIO

• WOL: Seth Rollins injury update, WrestleMania scenarios, ratings, more! 2/1
• DragonKingKarl Classic Wrestling Show: The first World Champion 2/1
• B&V&C: Retro Raw and Nitro from 19 years ago this week! 1/31
• WOL: Solo Sempervive on Samoa Joe’s Raw debut, Neville, more 1/31

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/30/2017: Recapping the 2017 Royal Rumble

Given the star power in the match, Randy Orton winning the 2017 Royal Rumble was always going to be underwhelming to some. It was only who he eliminated last that redeemed the moment to most who were disappointed. Orton capped off a solid Rumble match at the Alamodome by last eliminating Roman Reigns, who entered at #30 after interference from Braun Strowman cost him his shot at the Universal Championship earlier in the night… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: January 30, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble preview, part 2 of Jimmy Snuka bio, plus tons of news

A look at WWE plans that are locked in place, and other plans up in the air, related to WrestleMania, and how the Royal Rumble, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber fit in is the lead story in the new double-sized of the Wrestling Observer.

There is also a major feature on the life of Jimmy Snuka, his growing up, full career, career records, the Nancy Argentino death case and reaction to his death. Plus, check out the 2016 win/loss records of all WWE talent, why Tito Ortiz is so important in MMA history, and Fantastica Mania coverage as well as notes on future major events around the world.

A look at the most loaded Royal Rumble match in years, and how all the top names figure into WrestleMania leads the news. Read about what the Mania matches say, ticket sale news from the Rumble and NXT Takeover, and where things go from there.

Have a look at Pentagon Jr., Daga and Garza Jr. leaving AAA and how many questions that asks. This includes the situation with Sexy Star, big questions facing Lucha Underground, the attempt to build The Crash promotion into a force in Mexico, notes on Lucha Underground contracts, exactly where this all stemmed from and why talent was unhappy with AAA, the Lucha Underground move that makes everything even more questionable, and how this relates to the bigger picture of wrestling all over the world right now.

Click here for full preview.

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: January 10, 2000 NJPW Tokyo Dome reviewed, 1999 in revenue for promotions, more

The mixed promotional angle, the very thing that New Japan has specialized in for nearly three decades, looks back in the forefront as representatives from WCW (J.J. Dillon and Paul Orndorff) and RINGS (Akira Maeda) along with Nobuhiko Takada all met with New Japan management in conjunction with the company’s biggest show of the year 1/4 at the Tokyo Dome… Subscribers click here to continue.

WEDNESDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

• Seth Rollins posted a series of tweets about the knee injury that he suffered on Raw: “Wanted to take a second to thank everyone who has reached out to me over the last two days. Life doesn’t always go your way, but that is no excuse to surrender. If anything, obstacles exist to help us grow and evolve. This reinjury to my surgically repaired knee is real and a lot is up in the air right now, but one thing remains constant: my resolve. This doesn’t end for me until I’ve reclaimed the throne. And for me, fighting and defeating Triple H is the only way. I will work harder than I ever have and push myself beyond what I know. This isn’t over. The only way to wear the crown is to slay the king. I know what must be done and there’s nothing that can stop me.” 
• As has been pointed out by many, Rollins appeared to suffer the injury when Samoa Joe took him down for the Coquina Clutch during their brawl on Monday.
• Joe posted an in-character tweet about Rollins’ injury: “@TripleH I believe I have delivered as requested.”
• Finn Balor tweeted a get well card to Rollins.
• Mick Foley posted on Facebook that he’s gotten his health insurance back and will be getting his right hip replaced whenever he has time in his schedule. Foley said that he’ll be taking time off from Raw after the surgery because he won’t be allowed to fly for about six weeks after.
• John Cena vs. Randy Orton in a non-title match was announced last night for next week’s SmackDown.
• NXT’s next round of TV tapings is taking place at Full Sail University tonight.
• ESPN interviewed Nikki Cross about her career and being a last-minute addition to SAnitY.
• Kevin Owens appeared on the latest episode of the Talk is Jericho podcast, which is a live show that was taped in Toronto over Survivor Series weekend.
• ESPN’s 30 for 30 documentary on the XFL airs tomorrow at 9 p.m. ET. Basil DeVito spoke to The Post in Athens, Ohio about the documentary.

Pro Wrestling

• MLW Radio noted that seasons one and two of Lucha Underground are coming to Netflix on February 15th. The two seasons will also be available on Netflix in Canada.
• The third season of Lucha Underground will resume on the El Rey Network on May 31st.
• Bobby Lashley will face Jeff Cobb at WrestleCon in Orlando, Florida on March 31st over WrestleMania weekend.

UFC/MMA

• Dana White again spoke out about Ronda Rousey’s status in an interview with TMZ Sports, saying that the day comes for all professional athletes where they don’t have it anymore and that’s what happened to Rousey.
• Edmond Tarverdyan is still coaching Travis Browne and will be in his corner on February 19th.
• Brett Okamoto tweeted that Rashad Evans vs. Daniel Kelly is being targeted for UFC 209 on March 4th.
• Francis Ngannou wants a fight with Cain Velasquez after his win over Andrei Arlovski.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (2/1): ECW Crossing The Line 1997

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• WWE Raw ratings get a post-Royal Rumble bump
• UFC’s Dana White: Ronda Rousey is ‘probably done’ fighting
• WWE Raw video highlights: Samoa Joe attacks Seth Rollins
• Samoa Joe makes his WWE main roster debut on Raw
• WWE Raw live results: Royal Rumble fallout

AUDIO

• WOR: Samoa Joe debut, Raw, WrestleMania update, more! 1/31
• WOL: WWE Royal Rumble 2017 fallout! 1/30
• WOR: 2017 Royal Rumble coverage! 1/30
• Bryan and Vinny Royal Rumble post-game show! 1/29

SmackDown and 205 Live will be taped tonight in Corpus Christi, Texas.

There will also be another NXT TV taping at Full Sail University on Wednesday, starting the build for the WrestleMania show in Orlando.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/23/2017: Previewing the unpredictable Royal Rumble

Whatever your feelings are on WWE inevitably using part-timers to boost another WrestleMania season, it’s undeniable that their inclusion has added intrigue to the 2017 Royal Rumble. Suggesting otherwise would be presenting alternative facts. Even with their limited presence on television, Goldberg, Brock Lesnar, and The Undertaker have added a level of unpredictably — even if it’s only perceived — to next Sunday’s show at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas that hasn’t been matched in recent years… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: January 30, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble preview, part 2 of Jimmy Snuka bio, plus tons of news

A look at WWE plans that are locked in place, and other plans up in the air, related to WrestleMania, and how the Royal Rumble, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber fit in is the lead story in the new double-sized of the Wrestling Observer.

There is also a major feature on the life of Jimmy Snuka, his growing up, full career, career records, the Nancy Argentino death case and reaction to his death. Plus, check out the 2016 win/loss records of all WWE talent, why Tito Ortiz is so important in MMA history, and Fantastica Mania coverage as well as notes on future major events around the world.

A look at the most loaded Royal Rumble match in years, and how all the top names figure into WrestleMania leads the news. Read about what the Mania matches say, ticket sale news from the Rumble and NXT Takeover, and where things go from there.

Have a look at Pentagon Jr., Daga and Garza Jr. leaving AAA and how many questions that asks. This includes the situation with Sexy Star, big questions facing Lucha Underground, the attempt to build The Crash promotion into a force in Mexico, notes on Lucha Underground contracts, exactly where this all stemmed from and why talent was unhappy with AAA, the Lucha Underground move that makes everything even more questionable, and how this relates to the bigger picture of wrestling all over the world right now.

Click here for full preview.

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: January 10, 2000 NJPW Tokyo Dome reviewed, 1999 in revenue for promotions, more

The mixed promotional angle, the very thing that New Japan has specialized in for nearly three decades, looks back in the forefront as representatives from WCW (J.J. Dillon and Paul Orndorff) and RINGS (Akira Maeda) along with Nobuhiko Takada all met with New Japan management in conjunction with the company’s biggest show of the year 1/4 at the Tokyo Dome… Subscribers click here to continue.

TUESDAY NEWS UPDATE

We now have a store on Pro Wrestling Tees that features four different t-shirt designs.

WWE

• Samoa Joe debuted on Raw last night and appears to be a member of the show’s roster going forward.
• Last night’s Raw also saw WWE officially begin the build to Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania. Paul Heyman challenged Goldberg to the match on behalf of Lesnar, with WWE announcing that Goldberg would respond to them next week.
• WWE is advertising Naomi & Becky Lynch vs. Alexa Bliss & Mickie James for tonight’s SmackDown. The show will also feature John Cena’s first appearance on TV since winning the WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble, as well as Randy Orton’s first appearance since winning the Rumble match.
• Akira Tozawa is scheduled to debut on 205 Live tonight.
• WWE posted a clip from the WWE 24 documentary that aired after Raw last night that features Shane McMahon embracing Vince McMahon after Shane’s Hell in a Cell match against The Undertaker at WrestleMania 32.
• King Jerry Lawler’s Memphis BBQ Company opened in Cordova, Tennessee on Monday night. Lawler is an owner of the restaurant.

Pro Wrestling

• NJPW World has made the Kazuchika Okada vs. Kenny Omega match from the Tokyo Dome available to watch for free for a week.
• Revolution Pro Wrestling announced that Omega would be appearing at their Epic Encounter show on April 13th at York Hall in London. The Young Bucks were previously announced for the show as well.
• EVOLVE posted the full video of Chris Hero’s farewell speech from last Saturday for free on YouTube.
• OTT Wrestling has booked the returning Mark Haskins for their shows on February 4th and 5th. Haskins returned to the ring at PROGRESS Wrestling’s show this past Sunday after being out indefinitely with a neck injury.

UFC/MMA

• While appearing on the UFC Unfiltered podcast, Dana White confirmed that Yoel Romero will be the next challenger for Michael Bisping’s title.
• White also said on the podcast that he expects Jon Jones to challenge the winner of Daniel Cormier vs. Anthony “Rumble” Johnson for the light heavyweight title when he returns from suspension.
• Amanda Nunes apologized to Ronda Rousey on Instagram for some of the comments she made after their UFC 207 fight: “Let me take a moment to explain myself. I was overwhelmed with adrenaline, emotion and hurt at the time. I held so much in during the weeks prior to my fight with Ronda. I might have said or posted some things at the time that I now realize was not the right thing to do. I want to apologize to Ronda. Her fans and mine and the UFC as well. Ronda is an amazing athlete and has done so much for this sport, especially for the women. #respect”
• In an interview with Fox Sports during the NHL’s All Star weekend, CM Punk said that he’s working hard on getting his next fight and is throwing names for opponents at Dana White. Punk said that he’ll continue fighting even if his next fight isn’t in the UFC.
• Ryan Bader said that he expects to sign a contract with Bellator imminently.
• Josh Koscheck is scheduled to make his Bellator debut against Mauricio Alonso at Bellator 172 on February 18th.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (1/31): Royal Rumble 2010

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• WWE Royal Rumble 2017 live results, news & recap
• NXT TakeOver San Antonio live results: Nakamura vs. Roode
• NXT TakeOver pre-show TV taping & dark match results
• EVOLVE 77 recap: Chris Hero bids farewell to independent wrestling
• UFC on FOX 23 live results: Valentina Shevchenko vs. Julianna Pena
• EVOLVE 76 recap: Chris Hero’s farewell weekend begins

AUDIO

• WOR: 2017 Royal Rumble coverage! 1/30
• Bryan and Vinny Royal Rumble post-game show! 1/29
• AD: Monsters and mysteries of Kansas! 1/29

We’re looking for reports on these WWE weekend shows:

• Raw brand Saturday night in Abilene, TX
• Smackdown brand Saturday night in San Angelo, TX

We’re also looking for reports tonight from Raw in Laredo, TX for what is likely to be one of the highest rated episodes of the show this year. Brock Lesnar is advertised. Bill Goldberg is not advertised for the show and as of last night was still not booked on the show. 

We’re also looking for reports on tonight’s Smackdown show in Hidalgo, TX, which is headlined by John Cena vs. A.J. Styles vs. Baron Corbin for the WWE title.

Smackdown and 205 Live will be taped on Tuesday in Corpus Christi, TX.

There will also be another NXT TV taping at Full Sail University on Wednesday, starting the build for the WrestleMania show in Orlando.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/23/2017: Previewing the unpredictable Royal Rumble

Whatever your feelings are on WWE inevitably using part-timers to boost another WrestleMania season, it’s undeniable that their inclusion has added intrigue to the 2017 Royal Rumble. Suggesting otherwise would be presenting alternative facts. Even with their limited presence on television, Goldberg, Brock Lesnar, and The Undertaker have added a level of unpredictably — even if it’s only perceived — to next Sunday’s show at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas that hasn’t been matched in recent years… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: January 30, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble preview, part 2 of Jimmy Snuka bio, plus tons of news

A look at WWE plans that are locked in place, and other plans up in the air, related to WrestleMania, and how the Royal Rumble, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber fit in is the lead story in the new double-sized of the Wrestling Observer.

There is also a major feature on the life of Jimmy Snuka, his growing up, full career, career records, the Nancy Argentino death case and reaction to his death. Plus, check out the 2016 win/loss records of all WWE talent, why Tito Ortiz is so important in MMA history, and Fantastica Mania coverage as well as notes on future major events around the world.

A look at the most loaded Royal Rumble match in years, and how all the top names figure into WrestleMania leads the news. Read about what the Mania matches say, ticket sale news from the Rumble and NXT Takeover, and where things go from there.

Have a look at Pentagon Jr., Daga and Garza Jr. leaving AAA and how many questions that asks. This includes the situation with Sexy Star, big questions facing Lucha Underground, the attempt to build The Crash promotion into a force in Mexico, notes on Lucha Underground contracts, exactly where this all stemmed from and why talent was unhappy with AAA, the Lucha Underground move that makes everything even more questionable, and how this relates to the bigger picture of wrestling all over the world right now.

Click here for full preview.

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: January 3, 2000 Goldberg injured after car window stunt goes wrong, tons of news

It appears that Bill Goldberg will be out of the ring somewhere in the neighborhood of ten to 15 weeks as the word going around within the company but others are optimistically saying it’ll be closer to six weeks. The actual blow which cut up Goldberg’s arm did air on television which was an elbow shot into the window of the limo that didn’t break the first few times… Subscribers click here to continue.

MONDAY NEWS UPDATE

Bryan and I will be back late tonight covering Raw. You can also send questions for tonight’s show to [email protected].

We pretty much have the road to Mania and the key matches on the card as well as the main events for the next three PPV’s on last nigh’s audio show. We have a more detailed look at the Mania card in the Observer issue that came out on Wednesday.

Not really a lot of major news that wasn’t discussed last night as far as the Rumble is concerned. John Cena and A.J. Styles are official for the Elimination Chamber, and I’d think most of that card will be obvious after Tuesday’s Smackdown show. The only thing pushed for tonight’s Raw show is a confrontation with Stephanie McMahon and Seth Rollins. As noted, expect a huge up tick in ratings for tonight’s show, or it would be a huge disappointment.

Regarding last night, the odds shifted greatly two hours before the show started to Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson beating Cesaro & Sheamus, to where they were immediately 15-to-1 favorites after being slight underdogs an hour earlier. So smart money did come in on every match last night and all the favorites won. 

There were a lot of issues last night regarding the show. We had more complaints about buffering issues than in a long time. There was a glitch at one point where you couldn’t get a replay of the Rumble with the idea is was blacked out due to restrictions. That’s the case in India due to the contract, but somehow people in the U.S. for a period of time due to some issue were believed to be in India and couldn’t watch the replay.

There were also complaints regarding people getting their seats moved and problems with seating which we’ve gotten a few of and were making their way around social media. The complaints included the usual disabled parking lot being shut down by the building as WWE made it exclusive for talent, so disabled veterans and handicapped people who are used to parking there and were directed there by unknowing people working at the entrance had to park elsewhere. The WWE said they were not aware of that issue.

Below is an e-mail we got about the issues at the building:

“As best I can explain, this is what happened to some fans in the 300 Level of the Alamodome at the Royal Rumble last night. We had cheap seats up on the 300 Level of the Alamodome, behind camera side. A friend has purchased a group block of tickets so we could all watch together and I had purchased 2 seats of this block from him. My companion and I got in line early and were at our section entrance at 3:45pm or so, (doors opened at 3:30). All of the entrances to the seats on this half of the upper deck were blocked off. Eventually some Alamodome employees explained that part of this section (which included our seats) was closed off for “cameras and sound” and we would be provided with new tickets. The section was covered with black curtains as WWE normally does to make the building look full. This occurred at about 4:00pm. There were literally hundreds and hundreds of people in the hallway, unable to be seated. 

The crowd became increasingly unhappy for obvious reasons and then several San Antonio Police officers were brought in to maintain order. The Police officers were admittedly very professional, if as unhelpful as the Alamodome staff. We were told by some members of the Alamodome staff to go to the first floor. Then by others the second floor, and ultimately back up to the upper section.We ran around the Alamodome for almost an hour being sent on one fruitless pursuit after another just to ultimately return to the section of our tickets, where our seats were no longer available.  

We were told multiple times over the next 80-90 minutes that we would be given new seats, but no time-table was provided. We missed both the Tag Title pre-show match (I missed a damn title change) and the Smackdown Women’s 3v3 tag match completely. Eventually, an official from the Alamodome brought up a bundle of tickets and started exchanging them with the crowd of people waiting. There was a massive rush to the table of people just trying to sit down and enjoy the event. It was a borderline mob environment. We received these replacement tickets at about 5:20pm, more than 90 minutes after arriving at our section of seating,  

We got tickets for the lower section behind all of WWE’s production rigs. Our view was obscured by both the scaffolding they set the main static camera’s on and the “snake” of control wires for the overhead lighting and sound rigs. These seats are the ones normally blacked over because they are an obscured view. Ultimately, because we were relatively early in moving down to this section, we moved to better seats that were less obscured and hoped for the best in terms of not being asked to move because our seats didn’t match the replacement tickets.

The Alamodome staff were uninformed and unhelpful for the entirety of this debacle. I called their customer service line from in the building and was told they could not help me. We even sent an email to their customer service last night and the response was to contact someone at WWE. It was a mess on the part of everyone involved and could have been easily prevented by making the decision to cover those sections long before the event started. “

The WWE did make a statement regarding this, saying:

“As with any major live event, not to mention one with more than 52,000 attendees, you can expect to receive some number of complaints. The 20 complaints we received is much less than any event of its size. Nonetheless, WWE will, as always, do everything possible to accommodate our fans.

WWE

• After Raw will be a WWE 24 documentary on last year’s WrestleMania on the WWE Network. The preview talks about the emotional journeys of HHH, Charlotte Flair, Shane McMahon and others behind the scenes at Mania in Dallas.

• There was a plan to make a bigger deal of John Cena tying Ric Flair’s record but it was rewritten out of the show. I think so many people know it’s not a real number (16) for Flair’s titles, plus from a history perspective, as great as last night’s match was, a short title reign is kind of weak for the record setter which may be why it’s being downplayed. That also could be an argument not to have done it, but that was the long-term plan when it was supposed to be a big deal.

• Chris Jericho suffered a minor ankle injury last night when he and everyone else was being thrown around by Brock Lesnar.

• The 4/10 Raw TV taping will be at the Nassau Coliseum, the first event in the new renovated arena. That will thrill the talent to no end, since Nassau isn’t exactly the favorite city to do television in because of a history of bad crowd reactions.
• WrestleMania Fan Axxess tickets are on sale today using the code WWEAPP
• Moana was No. 13 at the U.S. box office and No. 6 at the Australian Box Office this past weekend. The Resurrection of Gavin Stone was No. 28.
• Pete Dunne, Trent Seven and Mark Andrews both ended up working for Progress on Sunday in London.  Andrews won a multiple person match over Marty Scurll, Trent Seven, Jack Sexsmith, Sebastian, Dave Mastiff and Nathan Cruz to get a title shot. Dunne retained his Progress title losing via DQ to Jimmy Havoc in the main event. So the only guys brought over were Wolfgang and Tyler Bate, who both worked on Saturday night’s show in San Antonio in matches taped for NXT this week.

UFC/MMA

• Jimi Manuwa vs. Corey Anderson will headline the 3/18 show at the O2 Arena in London, which will be a Fight Pass exclusive show.
• Aisling Daly, a strawweight best known for being very likeable during the strawweight title tournament on Ultimate Fighter, announced her retirement today citing an abnormality on a brain scan.
• Bellator on Friday night did an above average 720,000 viewers.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Lucha Libre vs. Kaiju Big Battel on 3/5 in Toronto at Lee’s Palace.
• PWA Live Pro Wrestling on 2/11 in Kitchener, ONT at the Alpine Club with Josh Alexander vs. Speedball Mike Bailey.
• Gouge from Saturday night in Fuquay  Varina, NC: Moose Czerwinski won Rumble, Head Rush b Snooty Fox, Jakob Hammermeir b Seymour Snott to win the Scientific trophy, Otto Schwanz b Dirty Deeds & Metalico, Waylon Maze & Juan Jeremi  b Ryan Miller & Encore, Jimmy Jack Funk Jr. b Chet Sterling, Timmy Lou Retton b Moose Czerwinski.
• Blue Water Championship Wrestling in Port Huron, MI on Saturday night: Sean Casey won Battle Royal, Ingris Isley b Shawna Reed, El Diablo & Masked Grappler b Mr Fitness & Frank Stein, Leah Vaughn b Thunderkitty, Cody Hawk b N8 Mattson, Justin Mane d James Alexander, Malia Hosaka b Ingrid Isley, Caleb Stills & Alex Weir b Cory Lyon & Kat Sweat, Sean Casey b Atlas Hytower, Ken Anderson b Buff Bagwell. (thanks to Leonard Brand)
• NWA Smoky Mountain Wrestling on 2/11 in Kingsport, TN at the Civic Auditorium with the final battle with Chase Owens vs. Jason Kincaid.
• Northern Wrestling Experience on 2/11 at the CWF Training Facility at 20 Hartzel Rd., in St. Catharines, ONT.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• EVOLVE 77 recap: Chris Hero bids farewell to independent wrestling
• NXT TakeOver San Antonio live results: Nakamura vs. Roode
• UFC on FOX 23 live results: Valentina Shevchenko vs. Julianna Pena
• EVOLVE 76 recap: Chris Hero’s farewell weekend begins
• NJPW Road to New Beginning results: Okada & RPG Vice vs. Suzuki-gun
• AUDIO: HHH on NXT TakeOver, WWE UK talent restrictions & Matt Riddle

AUDIO

• WOL: Royal Rumble, Lucha Underground future, Dr. Lucha, more! 1/27
• Wrestling Weekly: Omega’s decision, training in OVW vs. NXT, mailbag 1/27
• B&V: NXT, NWA Crockett from 1987, RAW, Granny Wrestling Report, more! 1/27
• WOR: Kenny Omega talks the decision he has made on his wrestling future 1/26

UFC AT 4PM TONIGHT FROM DENVER ON FIGHT PASS

Fight Pass at 4 p.m. Eastern time

• J.C. Cottrell (17-4, 155.8) vs. Jason Gonzalez (10-3, 156) 
• Eric Shelton (10-2, 125.8) vs. Alexander Pantoja (10-2, 126)

FS 1 at 5 p.m. Eastern time

• Marcos Rogerio de Lima (14-4-1, 209.6) vs. Jeremy Kimball (14-5, 204)
• Alessio DiChirico (10-1, 185.6) vs. Eric Spicely (9-1, 185.8)
• Luis Henrique da Silva (12-1, 205.8) vs. Jordan Johnson (6-0, 205)
• Li Jingliang (11-4, 170.4) vs. Bobby Nash (8-1, 170.8)
• Raphael Assuncao (23-5, 135.4) vs. Aljamain Sterling (12-1, 135.8)
• Sam Alvey (29-8, 185.6) vs. Nate Marquardt (35-16-2, 185.6)

FOX at 8 p.m. Eastern time

• Alex Caceres (12-9, 145) vs. Jason Knight (15-2, 145.6)
• Andrei Arlovski (25-13, 246) vs. Francis Ngannou (9-1, 253.6)
• Donald Cerrone (32-7, 170.8) vs. Jorge Masvidal (31-11, 171)
• Julianna Pena (8-2, 135) vs. Valentina Shevchenko (13-2, 134.4)

de Lima was fined 20 percent of his purse, which will go to Kimball, for missing weight

NXT TAKEOVER AT 8 P.M. EASTERN FROM SAN ANTONIO’S FREEMAN COLISEUM ON THE WWE NETWORK

• Roderick Strong vs. Andrade Cien Almas
• Tye Dillinger vs. Eric Young
• Asuka vs. Peyton Royce vs. Billie Kay vs. Nikki Cross for the women’s title
• Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano vs. Authors of Pain for tag titles
• Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Bobby Roode for NXT title

ROYAL RUMBLE IS SUNDAY FROM THE ALAMODOME IN SAN ANTONIO ON THE WWE NETWORK

Right now we don’t know when the first match goes into the ring, but probably between 5:30 and 6 p.m. Eastern time

• Nia Jax vs. Sasha Banks (preshow match)
• Becky Lynch & Nikki Bella & Naomi vs. Mickie James & Alexa Bliss & Natalya (preshow match)
• Sheamus & Cesaro vs. Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson with 2 referees for Raw tag team title (preshow match)
• Rich Swann vs. Neville for cruiserweight title
• Charlotte vs. Bayley for Raw women’s title
• A.J. Styles vs. John Cena for WWE title
• Kevin Owens vs. Roman Reigns no DQ with Chris Jericho in a shark cage above the ring for Universal title
• 30 man Royal Rumble

Monday will be Raw in Laredo, TX for what is likely to be one of the highest rated episodes of the show this year. Brock Lesnar is advertised. Bill Goldberg is not advertised for the show and as of right now is not booked on the show. There will also be a Smackdown house show in Hidalgo, TX.

Smackdown and 205 Live will be taped on Tuesday in Corpus Christi, TX.

There will also be another NXT TV taping at Full Sail University on Wednesday, starting the build for the WrestleMania show in Orlando.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/23/2017: Previewing the unpredictable Royal Rumble

Whatever your feelings are on WWE inevitably using part-timers to boost another WrestleMania season, it’s undeniable that their inclusion has added intrigue to the 2017 Royal Rumble. Suggesting otherwise would be presenting alternative facts. Even with their limited presence on television, Goldberg, Brock Lesnar, and The Undertaker have added a level of unpredictably — even if it’s only perceived — to next Sunday’s show at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas that hasn’t been matched in recent years… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: January 30, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble preview, part 2 of Jimmy Snuka bio, plus tons of news

A look at WWE plans that are locked in place, and other plans up in the air, related to WrestleMania, and how the Royal Rumble, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber fit in is the lead story in the new double-sized of the Wrestling Observer.

There is also a major feature on the life of Jimmy Snuka, his growing up, full career, career records, the Nancy Argentino death case and reaction to his death. Plus, check out the 2016 win/loss records of all WWE talent, why Tito Ortiz is so important in MMA history, and Fantastica Mania coverage as well as notes on future major events around the world.

A look at the most loaded Royal Rumble match in years, and how all the top names figure into WrestleMania leads the news. Read about what the Mania matches say, ticket sale news from the Rumble and NXT Takeover, and where things go from there.

Have a look at Pentagon Jr., Daga and Garza Jr. leaving AAA and how many questions that asks. This includes the situation with Sexy Star, big questions facing Lucha Underground, the attempt to build The Crash promotion into a force in Mexico, notes on Lucha Underground contracts, exactly where this all stemmed from and why talent was unhappy with AAA, the Lucha Underground move that makes everything even more questionable, and how this relates to the bigger picture of wrestling all over the world right now.

Click here for full preview.

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: January 3, 2000 Goldberg injured after car window stunt goes wrong, tons of news

It appears that Bill Goldberg will be out of the ring somewhere in the neighborhood of ten to 15 weeks as the word going around within the company but others are optimistically saying it’ll be closer to six weeks. The actual blow which cut up Goldberg’s arm did air on television which was an elbow shot into the window of the limo that didn’t break the first few times… Subscribers click here to continue.

SATURDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

• Corey Graves said his goodbyes to NXT on tonight’s TakeOver pre-show. It was announced that Nigel McGuinness would be taking his place in the NXT broadcast booth after Graves calls his final show for the brand tonight.
• Philly.com has an interview with Graves about how he’s enjoying his current role in WWE.
• Also on the pre-show, WWE revealed this year’s NXT Awards. Shinsuke Nakamura won both Overall and Male Competitor of the Year. Asuka won Female Competitor of the Year. The Revival won Tag Team of the Year, and their match against DIY from TakeOver: Toronto won Match of the Year.
• Nakamura, DIY, The Revival, and Royce & Kay reacted to their awards wins.
• WWE did bring at least a pair of their UK tournament participants to San Antonio for Royal Rumble weekend. Both Tyler Bate and Wolfgang wrestled at the Freeman Coliseum before TakeOver went on the air, and Bate was shown on camera during the show.
• WWE has video of Bate arriving in San Antonio.
• Triple H tweeted a custom edition of the WWE Championship that WWE is sending to Serena Williams for her Australian Open win.
• Fox Sports has an interview with AJ Styles in advance of the Royal Rumble on Sunday.

Pro Wrestling

• EVOLVE had a series of embarrassing ring mishaps on their Friday night show. The ropes broke for the first time in the opening match as the middle one gave way. The main event featuring Chris Hero and Keith Lee also had two separate ring problems, with both the top and middle ropes breaking. The promotion used a new ring today.
• Chris Hero had what’s scheduled to be his final independent wrestling match at EVOLVE 77 today against Zack Sabre Jr. Hero gave a farewell speech putting over Sabre after the match and talked about the importance of having support, saying that he couldn’t have returned to NXT without the support he’s gotten in his time away.
• Lenny Leonard announced on commentary during the show that the Hardys would be appearing at WWN’s WrestleMania weekend tailgate party.
• Peter Kaasa was left off of the show as a precaution after taking a rough bump when the ropes broke in last night’s opener.
• Robert Flores of the MLB and NHL Networks tweeted that he’ll be the co-host of Ric Flair’s new podcast on the MLW Radio network. Flores formerly worked at ESPN and is a longtime wrestling fan.
• Fox Sports has an article on former Oklahoma Sooners running back Marcus Dupree making pro wrestling appearances.

UFC/MMA

• Conor McGregor held a Q&A in Manchester today with Ariel Helwani as the host. McGregor posted a profane message to the UFC, WWE, Floyd Mayweather, boxing, and Hollywood on Instagram before it started. McGregor also said that his show would have 5,000 fans, which he claimed was more than the UFC would draw for their show in Denver tonight.
• McGregor expressed confidence during the Q&A that Mayweather will be his next opponent.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

• NJPW Road to New Beginning results: Okada & RPG Vice vs. Suzuki-gun
• TNA Impact Wrestling results: Edwards vs. Lashley headlines Genesis
• AUDIO: HHH on NXT TakeOver, WWE UK talent restrictions & Matt Riddle
• Daniel Cormier vs. Rumble Johnson rematch set for UFC 210
• WWE bringing the Royal Rumble back to Philadelphia in 2018

AUDIO

• WOL: Royal Rumble, Lucha Underground future, Dr. Lucha, more! 1/27
• Wrestling Weekly: Omega’s decision, training in OVW vs. NXT, mailbag 1/27
• B&V: NXT, NWA Crockett from 1987, RAW, Granny Wrestling Report, more! 1/27
• WOR: Kenny Omega talks the decision he has made on his wrestling future 1/26

We’re looking for reports from the WWE show tonight in Hobbs, NM and the NXT show tonight in Dallas, TX to [email protected].

Our weekend polls will be for the NXT show in San Antonio, the Five Star show in Dundee, Scotland and the Royal Rumble, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle for all three shows to [email protected].

NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING ON AXS TV AT 8 P.M. EASTERN FROM THE TOKYO DOME

• Will Ospreay & Yoshi-Hashi & Jado vs. Yujiro Takahashi & Bad Luck Fale & Adam Page
• Winner vs. Seiya Sanada & Evil & Bushi
• Winner vs. Satoshi Kojima & Ricochet & David Finlay for Never trios titles
• Katsuyori Shibata vs. Hirooki Goto for Never Open weight title

EVOLVE AT 9 P.M. EASTERN FROM THE WOODLAWN LAKE PARK GYM IN SAN ANTONIO ON FLO SLAM

• Chris Dickinson vs. Darby Allin
• Jaka vs. Peter Kaasa
• Dustin vs. Jason Kincaid
• Matt Riddle vs. ACH
• Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Ethan Page
• Tracy Williams & Fred Yehi vs. Timothy Thatcher & Jeff Cobb for tag titles
• Chris Hero vs. Keith Lee

BELLATOR TONIGHT AT 9 P.M. EASTERN ON SPIKE TV FROM MULVANE, KANSAS

• Jessica Middleton (1-0, 126) vs. Alice Yauger (4-4, 125.7)
• A.J. McKee (6-0, 145.6) vs. Brandon Phillips (6-2, 146.8)
• Dave Rickels (17-4, 2 no contests, 170.3) vs. Aaron Derrow (14-8, 169.8)
• Melvin Guillard (32-16-2, 3 no contests, 178.1) vs. Chidi Njokuani (16-4, 1 no contest, 179.7)

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

• Stukita & Shockercito vs. Demus 3:16 & Mercurio
• Marcela & Princesa Sugei & Vaquerita vs. Dallys & Zeuxis & Amapola
• Blue Panther & Blue Panther Jr. & The Panther vs. Mascara Ano 2000 & Sanson & Cuatrero
• Marco Corleone & Maximo Sexy & Diamante Azul vs. Raymond Rowe & Rush & Pierroth
• Mephisto vs. Caristico for CMLL middleweight title
• Mistico & Volador Jr. & Dragon Lee vs. Ultimo Guerrero & Gran Guerrero & Cavernario Barbaro

For Saturday, we’re looking for reports on the Five Star show from Dundee, Scotland, WWE Raw in Abilene, TX and WWE Smackdown in San Angelo, TX to [email protected].

EVOLVE ON SATURDAY AT 3 P.M. EASTERN TIME AT THE WOODLAWN LAKE PARK GYM IN SAN ANTONIO ON FLO SLAM

• Chris Dickinson & Jake vs. Sammy Guevara & Jason Kincaid
• Tracy Williams vs. Laredo Kid
• Fred Yehi vs. ACH
• Matt Riddle vs. Dustin
• Timothy Thatcher vs.. Jeff Cobb for Evolve title
• Chris Hero vs. Zack Sabre Jr.

UFC ON SATURDAY NIGHT FROM DENVER

Fight Pass at 4 p.m. Eastern time

• J.C. Cottrell (17-4, 155.8) vs. Jason Gonzalez (10-3, 156) 
• Eric Shelton (10-2, 125.8) vs. Alexander Pantoja (10-2, 126)

FS 1 at 5 p.m. Eastern time

• Marcos Rogerio de Lima (14-4-1, 209.6) vs. Jeremy Kimball (14-5, 204)
• Alessio DiChirico (10-1, 185.6) vs. Eric Spicely (9-1, 185.8)
• Luis Henrique da Silva (12-1, 205.8) vs. Jordan Johnson (6-0, 205)
• Li Jingliang (11-4, 170.4) vs. Bobby Nash (8-1, 170.8)
• Raphael Assuncao (23-5, 135.4) vs. Aljamain Sterling (12-1, 135.8)
• Sam Alvey (29-8, 185.6) vs. Nate Marquardt (35-16-2, 185.6)

FOX at 8 p.m. Eastern time

• Alex Caceres (12-9, 145) vs. Jason Knight (15-2, 145.6)
• Andrei Arlovski (25-13, 246) vs. Francis Ngannou (9-1, 253.6)
• Donald Cerrone (32-7, 170.8) vs. Jorge Masvidal (31-11, 171)
• Julianna Pena (8-2, 135) vs. Valentina Shevchenko (13-2, 134.4)

de Lima was fined 20 percent of his purse, which will go to Kimball, for missing weight

NXT TAKEOVER ON SATURDAY NIGHT AT 8 P.M. EASTERN FROM SAN ANTONIO’S FREEMAN COLISEUM

• Roderick Strong vs. Andrade Cien Almas
• Tye Dillinger vs. Eric Young
• Asuka vs. Peyton Royce vs. Billie Kay vs. Nikki Cross for the women’s title
• Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano vs. Authors of Pain for tag titles
• Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Bobby Roode for NXT title

ROYAL RUMBLE IS SUNDAY FROM THE ALAMODOME IN SAN ANTONIO

Right now we don’t know when the first match goes into the ring, but probably between 5:30 and 6 p.m. Eastern time

• Nia Jax vs. Sasha Banks (preshow match)
• Becky Lynch & Nikki Bella & Naomi vs. Mickie James & Alexa Bliss & Natalya (preshow match)
• Sheamus & Cesaro vs. Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson with 2 referees for Raw tag team title (preshow match)
• Rich Swann vs. Neville for cruiserweight title
• Charlotte vs. Bayley for Raw women’s title
• A.J. Styles vs. John Cena for WWE title
• Kevin Owens vs. Roman Reigns no DQ with Chris Jericho in a shark cage above the ring for Universal title
• 30 man Royal Rumble

Monday will be Raw in Laredo, TX for what is likely to be one of the highest rated episodes of the show this year. Brock Lesnar is advertised. Bill Goldberg is not advertised for the show and as of right now is not booked on the show. There will also be a Smackdown house show in Hidalgo, TX.

Smackdown and 205 Live will be taped on Tuesday in Corpus Christi, TX.

There will also be another NXT TV taping at Full Sail University on Wednesday, starting the build for the WrestleMania show in Orlando.

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/23/2017: Previewing the unpredictable Royal Rumble

Whatever your feelings are on WWE inevitably using part-timers to boost another WrestleMania season, it’s undeniable that their inclusion has added intrigue to the 2017 Royal Rumble. Suggesting otherwise would be presenting alternative facts. Even with their limited presence on television, Goldberg, Brock Lesnar, and The Undertaker have added a level of unpredictably — even if it’s only perceived — to next Sunday’s show at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas that hasn’t been matched in recent years… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: January 30, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble preview, part 2 of Jimmy Snuka bio, plus tons of news

A look at WWE plans that are locked in place, and other plans up in the air, related to WrestleMania, and how the Royal Rumble, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber fit in is the lead story in the new double-sized of the Wrestling Observer.

There is also a major feature on the life of Jimmy Snuka, his growing up, full career, career records, the Nancy Argentino death case and reaction to his death. Plus, check out the 2016 win/loss records of all WWE talent, why Tito Ortiz is so important in MMA history, and Fantastica Mania coverage as well as notes on future major events around the world.

A look at the most loaded Royal Rumble match in years, and how all the top names figure into WrestleMania leads the news. Read about what the Mania matches say, ticket sale news from the Rumble and NXT Takeover, and where things go from there.

Have a look at Pentagon Jr., Daga and Garza Jr. leaving AAA and how many questions that asks. This includes the situation with Sexy Star, big questions facing Lucha Underground, the attempt to build The Crash promotion into a force in Mexico, notes on Lucha Underground contracts, exactly where this all stemmed from and why talent was unhappy with AAA, the Lucha Underground move that makes everything even more questionable, and how this relates to the bigger picture of wrestling all over the world right now.

Click here for full preview.

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: January 3, 2000 Goldberg injured after car window stunt goes wrong, tons of news

It appears that Bill Goldberg will be out of the ring somewhere in the neighborhood of ten to 15 weeks as the word going around within the company but others are optimistically saying it’ll be closer to six weeks. The actual blow which cut up Goldberg’s arm did air on television which was an elbow shot into the window of the limo that didn’t break the first few times… Subscribers click here to continue.

FRIDAY NEWS UPDATE

We’ll be doing radio shows on Saturday night after the UFC & NXT shows, Sunday night after Rumble and Monday night.

The tryout match with the NXT women’s four-way done last night in Houston was not good. Both the crowd didn’t get into it and it was a sloppy match. They will likely be working it again tonight in Dallas to get ready for Sunday.

Pete Dunne, Mark Andrews and Trent Seven are all working on Sunday for Progress Wrestling at their show in London at the Electric Ballroom. They had been pulled from a show in London as well as a podcast the day before. We were told that five of the wrestlers in the U.K. tournament were being brought to San Antonio this weekend including the final four. So that looks to have changed. Tyler Bate is not listed for anything this weekend in the U.K. Dunne defends his Progress title against Jimmy Havoc in the main event.

Tonight’s Arena Mexico show is deeper than usual with Ray Rowe from ROH appearing as well as everyone back from Japan. The main event looks great on paper and there’s also a Mephisto vs. Caristico title match.

Rizin announced today that Antonio Inoki will be part of the promotion. He will appear at the shows and help promote the events.

Kyle O’Reilly speaks to Rolling Stone about where he stands and his future.

WWE

• WWE will be taping one week of NXT programming tomorrow night before they go on the air, at about 7 p.m. in San Antonio.
• As of a few days ago, Jason Jordan & Chad Gable, even though tag team champions, had not been told they were in the Rumble.
• Nikki Bella has been named Executive Producer of Total Divas going forward.
• An article on the women’s division is here. (thanks to Lee Wall)
• WWE has moved the women’s six man match on Sunday’s Royal Rumble show to the preshow. Given the main show is four hours and has five matches, that would indicate maybe a surprise segment, as well as very long matches.
• Mada Abdelhamid, who was on the last season of Tough Enough in 2014, has quit the promotion. He had done a few promos but wasn’t figured into anything in NXT and had yet to be used on television.
• The Los Angeles Times has some interviews with WWE talent
  Dean Ambrose talks about being overlooked in WWE’s Royal Rumble.
  Bayley discusses facing Charlotte at the Royal Rumble on Sunday.
• A story on Seth Rollins where he talks about his return from an injury is here.
• A.J. Styles talks to Sporting News about his first year in WWE, the Royal Rumble, chemistry with John Cena, possibly extending his career and more.

UFC

• Two of UFC’s ranked flyweights, Ali Bagautinov and Zach Makovsky, are no longer on the active roster. In both cases, their contracts have expired and were not renewed.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Kurt Angle has been pulled out of appearing at WrestleCon over WrestleMania weekend.
• AAA tapes television tomorrow night in Toluca, Mexico, with El Hijo de Fantasma & El Texano Jr. & Psycho Clown headlining against Dr Wagner Jr & Mesias & Pagano, plus Angelico & Australian Suicide & ? vs. Zorro & Dark Cuervo & Dark Scoria.
• Baja Stars USA on 2/25 in San Diego has L.A. Park & El Hijo de L.A. Park vs. Damian 666 & Extreme Tiger
• There is a show in McAllen, TX on Sunday at Famoso Club Fuego with Mistico & Drago Rojo Jr. vs. Maximo Sexy & Shocker.
• UIPW runs the Clela Arena in Los Angeles on 2/5 with Brian Cage & Misterio Negro & Shamu Jr. vs. Misterioso Jr. & Enigma & Acero Dorado.
• Jason Agnew of Live Audio Wrestling is hosting a wrestling themed comedy show called Rumble Strikes plus Nug Nahragang of Sportsnet Aftermath, indie wrestler R.J. City and Santino Marella tonight a 10:30 p.m. at the Comedy Bar in Toronto at 945 Bloor Street West. 
• Bellator’s Alexander Shlemenko got permission to do a 3/3 show for M-1 Challenge in Russia, where he’ll be facing Paul Bradley, a former UFC & Bellator fighter who wrestled at Iowa. 
• National Wrasslin League from last night in St. Louis: Boulder & Spike b Tommy Flagg & August Marshall, Maverick b Cal Stark, Cornell Douglass b Dominick Butler, Davey Gibson & Matthew Grundy b Adam Ryan & Jackie Lee Bosch, Todd Letterman b Skyler Beckett, Jay Lutz b Christian Adonis, Coco rumble & Dez Wellston b Marcellus Gaines & Clayton Fox (thanks to Patrick Brandmeyer)
• Penta El Zero M (Pentagon Jr.) vs. AR Fox has been added to the 2/4 AAW show in LaSalle, IL at the Knights of Columbus.
• Border City Wrestling on 3/25 in Windsor, ONT at St. Clair College Gym with Hornswoggle, Billy Gunn, Shane Douglas, Colt Cabana and Moose. 
• Great North Wrestling on 5/13 at the Smiths Falls Memorial Center in Hawkesbury, ONT with Wes Brisco, Hannibal and more.
• Gouge wrestling tomorrow in Fuquay Varnia, NC at the Draft Line Brewing Company.
• A pro wrestler’s look at pain management is here.

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

• The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon).
• The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions

DINNER INFO:

• WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
• WHEN: Friday March 31st
• WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
• WHO: All your best empire buddies
• DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in Professional Wrestling History (1/27): Royal Rumble 2008 at MSG

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Poll opinions: [email protected]
• ​Feedback: [email protected]
• Show results and news tips: [email protected]
• Wrestling Observer Radio questions: [email protected]

​