The new issue of the Wrestling Observer is up on the site covering the follow topics:
The story of John Cena’s retirement, the finish, the reaction, what WWE did and didn’t expect and thoughts on why they did what they did and why judging it now makes little sense in the big picture. We look at different aspects of the decision making and the fallacy of the “time-honored tradition phrasing here. We look at where Cena viably stands among the greats, the show itself, and Cena’s legacy.
We look at the post-match and post-show reaction, Paul Levesque and also look at the history of retirement matches with the biggest names in the history of the business. This is a real history lesson about what really is the tradition.
We have a story on Wrestle Kingdom’s card, why it turned out this way, as well as the finals of the New Japan tag team tournament.
We update the WBD sale story with the latest on Netflix and Paramount, just how strongly WBD publicly viewed the Paramount offer in a negative way and more
We run down the 2025 Tokyo Sports pro wrestling awards, with the winners, why they won, how the voting went, the nature of the voting and more in a year Saya Kamitani became the first woman wrestler to win MVP
A look at the retirement show and the career of El Hijo del Santo, the Santo gimmick, the cultural significance of the Santo name, Santo Jr, and notes on Santo’s career and most famous matches
We update the Continental Classic and Worlds Collide with business updates as well.
We look at the odds for upcoming matches
We look at the careers of Solomon Grundy, Miss Janeth and Ricky Romero Jr/Ricky Youngblood
We have the most detailed look at the television ratings of all the wrestling shows this past week as well as placings, comparisons and more, as well as an explanation of what the annual drops actually mean.
We look at another week of sellouts in CMLL, including the big Friday show and the Mistico vs Soberano feud
We look at Guerra de Titanes from AAA
We look at the financials from Cyberfight and what wrestler in specific they credited a better economic year to
Yota Tsuji talks the future of New Japan
What pro wrestling events in Japan were the most streamed in 2025
Update on Andrade
Former WWE tag champ going into Bare Knuckle boxing
Major AEW overseas ratings growth
Ticket sales to upcoming WWE and AEW shows
Chris Jericho update
Injury updates
Ilia Topuria marriage issues slows down career
An appeal by TKO on judge’s ruling about current fighter contracts
WWE uploaded the full Chelsea Green vs. Sol Ruca Women’s United States Championship match that headlined NXT last night.
On Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Diamond Dallas Page discussed working with Bron Breakker while Breakker was still pursuing a career in football:
Really got to know him when he was finishing up playing at Kennesaw [State University] football, because he got [signed] by the Baltimore Ravens. You know, it would have been funny if he would have made that team, I think – first of all, it was the greatest thing to happen to him that he didn’t, but he had that shot.
And he knew right away. I was working with him, we trained together a lot. And I don’t mean in the ring – I mean in the gym. He wasn’t afraid to do DDP Yoga. He wanted to do it with me. All them, all those Steiner brothers, man, his two other brothers – beasts. Maveric’s a beast. Hudson is an animal as well. And then you go to Brandon and you got Brock with Scotty Steiner.
I love that so many of the boys’ sons are just real gentlemen. And to be able to watch Bronson, yeah, okay, he’s always going to be Bronson to me, you know? Wow. He has it in spades, and they’ve seen it since the beginning.
DDP added that he would love to see Breakker become World Champion:
I would love to see that, man. I haven’t talked to him probably in about a month or two, but humble, feet on the ground. And you gotta know who you are, you know? You don’t forget that. But you want to always try to keep your feet on the ground, because that’s the guys who continue to excel.
For the record, @BookItGabe deserves all the credit for the discovery of [Austin Theory]. As Executive Director of @WWE #RAW in 2019/2020, I drafted Theory from @WWENXT for (ironically enough) @WWERollins’ group. Now, he’s a seasoned veteran with a chip on his shoulder ready to step into the spotlight.
But the credit for discovering Theory goes to Gabe!
Billboard spoke with WWE wrestlers Nia Jax, Lash Legend, Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, and Chelsea Green about their favorite music moments.
Nick Hogan’s wife Tana shared a throwback photo with Hulk Hogan from this time in 2024: “This was a year ago today. We miss you so much Big Dog, so much. @nickhogan @mrs.sky.hogan”
She has allowed me this year to dig deep and push to a different level. Obviously, she’s one of the greatest to ever do it, and having the opportunity to work with her has been imperative to my career. It’s definitely highlighted me and given me opportunities, which is exactly what someone with that kind of star power can do.
Being in the ring with her multiple times has pushed me to think outside the box and challenge myself. So I’d say it’s more inspiration than advice, per se. I’m obviously very excited to face her again at the pay-per-view, Worlds End. I’m hoping it will once again bring out that deep-level performance from me.
Tokyo Joshi Pro-Wrestling is coming to Texas for four shows taking place from March 17-22, 2026. Billed as TJPW’s “largest US tour in history,” there will be stops in Austin, Houston, and Dallas. Full information will be announced at a later date, but the Austin events are part of the annual SXSW (South by Southwest) festival:
TJPW will run its largest US tour in history ‘TJPW Texas Stampede’ in March 2026.
4 shows will take place in Austin, Houston, and Dallas from Tuesday, March 17 to Sunday, March 22. Specific dates, times, venues, and ticket information will be announced at a later date.
TJPW lands in Austin for the first time ever, and will run shows over 2 days at South by Southwest, one of the largest conference/festival events in the world that celebrates the convergence of tech, film, music, education, and culture.
Our last event in the US, DPW 4th Anniversary, was a fundraiser event for the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina as we head into the holiday season & the new year. We came together as a community and we were able to donate over 20,000 meals! Thank you to everyone who helped contribute to the cause. Happy holidays everyone!
The new issue of the Wrestling Observer is up on the site covering the follow topics:
The story of John Cena’s retirement, the finish, the reaction, what WWE did and didn’t expect and thoughts on why they did what they did and why judging it now makes little sense in the big picture. We look at different aspects of the decision making and the fallacy of the “time-honored tradition phrasing here. We look at where Cena viably stands among the greats, the show itself, and Cena’s legacy.
We look at the post-match and post-show reaction, Paul Levesque and also look at the history of retirement matches with the biggest names in the history of the business. This is a real history lesson about what really is the tradition.
We have a story on Wrestle Kingdom’s card, why it turned out this way, as well as the finals of the New Japan tag team tournament.
We update the WBD sale story with the latest on Netflix and Paramount, just how strongly WBD publicly viewed the Paramount offer in a negative way and more
We run down the 2025 Tokyo Sports pro wrestling awards, with the winners, why they won, how the voting went, the nature of the voting and more in a year Saya Kamitani became the first woman wrestler to win MVP
A look at the retirement show and the career of El Hijo del Santo, the Santo gimmick, the cultural significance of the Santo name, Santo Jr, and notes on Santo’s career and most famous matches
We update the Continental Classic and Worlds Collide with business updates as well.
We look at the odds for upcoming matches
We look at the careers of Solomon Grundy, Miss Janeth and Ricky Romero Jr/Ricky Youngblood
We have the most detailed look at the television ratings of all the wrestling shows this past week as well as placings, comparisons and more, as well as an explanation of what the annual drops actually mean.
We look at another week of sellouts in CMLL, including the big Friday show and the Mistico vs Soberano feud
We look at Guerra de Titanes from AAA
We look at the financials from Cyberfight and what wrestler in specific they credited a better economic year to
Yota Tsuji talks the future of New Japan
What pro wrestling events in Japan were the most streamed in 2025
Update on Andrade
Former WWE tag champ going into Bare Knuckle boxing
Major AEW overseas ratings growth
Ticket sales to upcoming WWE and AEW shows
Chris Jericho update
Injury updates
Ilia Topuria marriage issues slows down career
An appeal by TKO on judge’s ruling about current fighter contracts
–Bryan and I will be back tonight talking about Raw, more WBD negotiations, New Japan, AAA and much more.
–The WWE’s AAA show from Saturday night in Guadalajara was one of the company’s best shows of the year. The Dragon Lee vs Vikingo match was tremendous but every match was good and it was a fantastic crowd because not only were they loud, but they reacted to everything in the matdhes. Sometimes you get loud crowds that are there for entrances and promos but not the matches. Or they’ll do chants but not react in sync with what’s going on in the ring. The crowd even booed Dominik at points as I guess the one guy they will always cheer in Mexico is Rey. Rey’s reaction was even bigger than Mistico at Arena Mexico.
–New Japan ran its final show of the year earlier today with Hiroshi Tanahashi’s next to last match (we had a mistake yesterday on that) against Kosei Fujita at Korakuen Hall. We’ll talk more about that tonight. A few notes from the show is that Andrade will team with Callum Newman & Great O’Khan & Henare and a mystery partner against Hiromu Takahashi & Gabe Kidd & David Finlay & Shingo Takagi & Drilla Moloney. Yuya Uemura & Shota Umino are on the show in the Never trios gauntlet match teaming with pop star Kaisei Takechi. Chris Brookes of DDT challenged El Phantasmo for the TV title.
–Jake Paul had surgery to repair his jaw broken in two places in the Anthony Joshua fight on Friday night. He said he had two titanium plates put in on each side and had some teeth removed. He won’t be able to eat solid food for a week. A $92 million payoff for the fight may make the pain feel better.
–Raw tonight was taped on Friday in Grand Rapids, MI. I think it’s the only actual taped Raw this year as it always goes live. Rhea Ripley vs. Asuka Je’Von Evans vs. Rayo Pete Dunne Bayley vs. Roxanne Perez Rey Mysterio & CM Punk vs. Austin Theory & Bronson Reed
–Mistico vs Soberano Jr. in a non-title match tonight in Puebla sold out this morning. While the sellout was a given, Puebla usually doesn’t sell out until the walk-up since it’s a weekly event. The big thing is tomorrow at Arena Mexico with Mistico defending the light heavyweight title against Difunto. It’s the type of match that is rare on a Tuesday but with school out they are looking for a bigger crowd than usual.
–It wasn’t said on the broadcast, but Saturday was the one-year anniversary of the death of Rey Misterio, or Rey Sr., as he’s been known since the mid-90s. Dominik was wearing Rey Sr. tribute gear as well as Gringo Locos gear, although they started doing the Gringo Locos gimmick with Dominik & Grande Americano and look to have already split them up. Rey sent a message talking about eternal life for Rey Sr., and friends Eddy Guerrero, Love Machine and Umaga.
–Trish Stratus is on the cover of the Australian version of FHM magazine in the January issue. –Evolve will not be airing the next two weeks on Tubi since they figure who will watch is on 12/24 or 12/31. They return on 1/7 with Chantel Monroe vs Wendy Choo in a no DQ match. –Jerry Lawler was on the WMC-TV news at 6 pm. tonight to plug the Memphis Wrestling TV special on WMC on Thursday at Noon.
–Kevin Kesar (Killer Kross) is part of the cast of an action-drama called “Godshot” about an ex-con who finds an unexpected shot at redemption after being introduced to the high-risk world of Hollywood stunt work,only to realize the most dangerous stunt of all will be breaking free from his past. It is about the life experiences of Sammy Horowitz, a Hollywood stunt man.The movie is currently filming in Chicago. –GCW announced Rey Horus returns plus 1 Called Mandes and Hammerstone for 2/15 in Mesa AZ. They also run 1/17 in Dallas with Effy vs. KJ Orso, Gringo Loco vs. Samuray del Sol plus Princalla Kelly and Shotzi Blackheart. Atticus Cogar vs. Priscilla Kelly and del Sol vs. Vengador will be on the 1/18 show in Wichita, KS.
–The Hardys are going to Dallas 1/5 and 1/6 to do local media and built for the 1/15 TV tapings and 1/17 Genesis PPV show from the Curtis Culwell Center in Garland, TX.
–Templario has been added to the Battle Riot show on 1/29 in Kissimmee, FL.
–Toni Rose turned 80 today Mistico turns 43. Doc Gallows turns 42. This would have been the 114th birthday of legendary referee and former wrestler Johnny “Red Shoes” Dugan. Rip Hawk died on this day four years ago at the age of 82. Mike Kirchner died on this day four year ago at the age of 64. (thanks to Tony Richaredes)inRn har Ko Srenhis would, a
–Green Mountain Wrestling on 2/1 at 2 p.m. in Barre, VT at the Elks Lodge
The new issue of the Wrestling Observer is up on the site covering the follow topics:
The story of John Cena’s retirement, the finish, the reaction, what WWE did and didn’t expect and thoughts on why they did what they did and why judging it now makes little sense in the big picture. We look at different aspects of the decision making and the fallacy of the “time-honored tradition phrasing here. We look at where Cena viably stands among the greats, the show itself, and Cena’s legacy.
We look at the post-match and post-show reaction, Paul Levesque and also look at the history of retirement matches with the biggest names in the history of the business. This is a real history lesson about what really is the tradition.
We have a story on Wrestle Kingdom’s card, why it turned out this way, as well as the finals of the New Japan tag team tournament.
We update the WBD sale story with the latest on Netflix and Paramount, just how strongly WBD publicly viewed the Paramount offer in a negative way and more
We run down the 2025 Tokyo Sports pro wrestling awards, with the winners, why they won, how the voting went, the nature of the voting and more in a year Saya Kamitani became the first woman wrestler to win MVP
A look at the retirement show and the career of El Hijo del Santo, the Santo gimmick, the cultural significance of the Santo name, Santo Jr, and notes on Santo’s career and most famous matches
We update the Continental Classic and Worlds Collide with business updates as well.
We look at the odds for upcoming matches
We look at the careers of Solomon Grundy, Miss Janeth and Ricky Romero Jr/Ricky Youngblood
We have the most detailed look at the television ratings of all the wrestling shows this past week as well as placings, comparisons and more, as well as an explanation of what the annual drops actually mean.
We look at another week of sellouts in CMLL, including the big Friday show and the Mistico vs Soberano feud
We look at Guerra de Titanes from AAA
We look at the financials from Cyberfight and what wrestler in specific they credited a better economic year to
Yota Tsuji talks the future of New Japan
What pro wrestling events in Japan were the most streamed in 2025
Update on Andrade
Former WWE tag champ going into Bare Knuckle boxing
Major AEW overseas ratings growth
Ticket sales to upcoming WWE and AEW shows
Chris Jericho update
Injury updates
Ilia Topuria marriage issues slows down career
An appeal by TKO on judge’s ruling about current fighter contracts
–Bryan and I will be back tonight talking about the weekend news, including AAA, CMLL, AEW, WWE, Jake Paul vs. Anthnony Joshua, Roland Bock and much more. My week in review show with Garrett Gonzales heavily went into the John Cena vs Gunther finish, the goals and whether they were achieved.
— Roland Bock, who had a unique pro wrestling career, who was very well known in Japan for his four matches with Antonjo Inoki, passed away on Friday at the age of 81. The November 25, 1978, match in Stuttgart, Germany is known as the Stuttgart Massacre in Japan. There is a lot of backstory, given Inoki had fought Muhammad Ali, Willem Ruska and had the reputation in Japan as being the best fighter, even though aside from Ali, the matches were works. He went to Germany for a tournament in 1978 where he got to wrestle and beat many major sports stars in pro wrestling matches, which was to build to Inoki vs. Bock in Stuttgart. Now they had matches earlier on the tour, a draw and a DQ. Exactly what happened here and why is disputed, but in the Stuttgart match, Bock basically blocked everything Inoki did and overpowered him for 40 minutes. It was not a shoot, but Bock did not let Inoki do much of anything and dominated, winning a decision.
The idea in those days that anybody beat Inoki in a match without outside interference was unheard of. The match did air on Japanese network TV and became one of the most famous matches of Inoki’s career, and Bock was the guy who was “stronger” than Inoki. Bock had injuries and in 1981 they finally brought him to Japan. He ran through everyone like it was nothing. Sold nothing, beat everyone with a double-arm suplex quickly. It finally led to the Inoki vs. Bock match on January 1, 1982. Bock did sell and the crowd was very into the match, but Bock threw down the ref for the DQ, so Inoki didn’t beat him. His pro wrestling career pretty much ended.
Bock was a European champion in Greco-Roman, and went to the 1968 Olympics in Greco-Roman as a heavyweight, the same Olympics and division as Bob Roop, although they didn’t face each other and neither medaled. Bock was more famous in Germany as the former Olympic wrestler who ran a famous rock nightclub and was a one-time pro champion. Since his death people have talked about the Stuttgart match as an all-time great match. It was not, unless you are into watching a match where one guy isn’t cooperating and is so strong you can’t do anything with him. But absolutely this was an all-time famous match in Inoki’s career and talked about for decades in Japan. Both famous Inoki vs. Bock matches are on New Japan World.
SPOILERS FROM TODAY
–The Continental Classic just finished up and the semifinals are Kyle Fletcher vs. Jon Moxley and Kazuchika Okada vs. Konosuke Takeshita. The final standings are:
Gold League
Kyle Fletcher 9
Kazuchika Okada 9 (Fletcher is first place based on head-to-head-match winning over Okada)
Kevin Knight 7
Pac 7
Mike Bailey 6
Jack Perry 6
Blue League
Konosuke Takeshita 13 (went undefeated in the tournament)
Jon Moxley 9
Claudio Castagnoli 7
Mascara Dorada 6
Orange Cassidy 6
Roderick Strong 3
For Collision on Christmas Day
Fletcher b Perry – told this was awesome
Takeshita b Dorada -told this was great
Strong b Castagnoli in the upset. Fast match. After the match was an angle with Wheeler Yuta and Marina Shafir drawing with Mark Briscoe & Toni Storm
Pac drew Knight – Really hot
Gabe Kidd called out Darby Allin. Allin returned. These two have a match at Worlds End
Willow Nightingale & Harley Cameron b Maya World & Hyan
Moxley b Cassidy in a match where the winner would get second place. Very brutal match. Cassidy got a standing ovation after
Okada b Mike Bailey – winner here would advance. There was an Okada vs. Takeshita stardown with both holding their belts.
Jay Lethal also turned on Bandido and unmasked him. This was for ROH in a Lethal & Bandido vs. Lee Johnson & Blake Christian match
There was also a Deonna Purrazzo & Madison Rayne vs. Billie Starkz & Diamante match with a very tearful post match with Rayne and Purrazzo and Rayne hugged people at ringside, bowed and waved to the crowd and Bobby Cruise said to give her a big hand. They didn’t say this was her retirement match but people had that impression it was either that or her leaving the promotion the way it was handled. (thanks to Daniel Saidian, Michael Yeon and Anthony Ramos)
— I was told three CC bouts were at the ****1/2 range.
— We’re looking for your thoughts on both AAA Guerra de Titanes last night as well as the CMLL Dream match on Friday. You can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected]
— We don’t have an update from last night on Dominik Mysterio other than the story of him having a shoulder injury from a bad landing on a DDT spot is a real injury.
– -AEW Dynamite on Wednesday did 511,000 viewers and a 0.08 in 18-49. Just totally crazy, figures as 24,000 in 18-34, 78,000 in 35-49 but 68,000 between 50 and 54. Collision did 333,000 and 0.05. News numbers were very big with the Trump speech. Obviously this doesn’t include HBO MAX.
— Canelo Alvarez and Alexa Grasso were ringside at AAA’s Guerra de Titanes show in Guadalajara. Both were shown on camera. The announcers went nuts for Alvarez, who was under a mask and then unmasked on camera. Konnan noted Alvarez is from Guadalajara and he’s the area hero.
— Chris Jericho will be doing a live YouTube show with himself and the podcast crew The Winnipeggers streaming live on Jerich’s YouTube Channel on Saturday at 9 p.m. Eastern. That would be during the Worlds End PPV show. I mean this doesn’t necessarily mean anything but it sure makes it seem like Jericho is going elsewhere (thanks to Stephen Lyon)
— Jake Paul was the No. 1 searched topic of the weekend on Google with more than 1 million searches. We will have the viewership for his fight on Tuesday afternoon. Andrew had 100,000 for his Misfits boxing match. Andrei Arlovski had 50,000. It’s all about social media influencers and nothing about sports.
— Arvloski had a backstage brawl at yesterday’s Misfits Boxing event with influencer Jack Doherty, who does a gimmick where he bumps into people and hides behind his bodyguard, and Arlovski started throwing punches. His bodyguards weren’t that quick to jump in this time around. But his guys did start swinging and Arlvoski knocked one down and kicked him before security broke it up.
— Danielle Monet, 42, the former Summer Rae, noted that she was diagnosed a few weeks ago with precancerous melanoma. She encouraged people to get their skin checked every year. She had it removed and needed stitches yesterday.
— WWE did a survey sent to many people who attend live events on what kind of alcoholic beverages did WWE fans purchase when attending live shows.
— Brian Ortega moves to lightweight to face Renat Moicano on the UFC show on 3/7 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
— At yesterday’s RAF show in Fishers, IN, Wyatt Hendrickson tech falled Mason Parris 13-2 to keep the heavyweight title. The biggest story is Yoel Romero, at 48, destroying Pat Downey, 12-0 via tech fall. He’ll face Bo Nickal on 1/10 for Nickal’s championship.
–Raw spoilers for tomorrow:
Asuka b Rhea Ripley when Iyo Sky tried to help Ripely but it backfired
They had an in-ring with Becky Lynch and Maxxinde Dupri. Lynch tapped out but this actually builds for her getting a shot on Dupri on the 1/5 Raw.
Je’Von Evans b Rayo Americano Dunne
They added Stephanie Vaquer vs. Raquel Rodriguez vs. Nikki Bella for the world women’s title on the 1/5 Raw after an angle
Bayley b Perez
Gunther did a promo and ended up in a staredown with CM Punk
Bronson Reed & Austin Theory b Punk & Rey Mysterio when Reed pinned Mysterio. More brawling after ending up with Bron Brakker laying out Punk.
— Trick Williams is officially on the main roster. The story is he’s a free agent listening to offers from both brands.
— The 1/2 Smackdown show has Jade Cargill vs. Michin and Aleister Black vs. Damien Priest.
— Hirsoshi Tanahashi in his next-to-last career match today beat El Desperado.
.
— House of Glory from Friday night in New York: Ken Broadway b Marcus Mathers, Idris Jackson & Angel Jacquez b Raheem Royal & Joey Silver, Shotzi Blackheart b Allie Katch to keep the HOG women’s title, JJP & KB Priem b Midas Back & Jay Lyon, Darren Richardson b Amazing Red in a no DQ match for the cruiserweight title, Matt & Jeff Hardy b Zilla Fatu & Lance Anoa’i when Anoa’i turned on Fatu to keep the HOG tag titles, Charles Mason b Mustafa Ali to keep the HOG title. Andrade attacked Mason and will face Mason for the title soon (thanks to Samuel Rosenthal)
— Bayley was raising money for Christmas and getting donations in San Jose yesterday.
— Among birthdays today are Mauro Ranallo (56), Eddie Colon (43), Oney Lorcan (40), and Otis (34). Outlaw Ron Bass would have turned 77 today and Del Wilkes, The Patriot, would have turned 64. Among those who passed away on this date include Umanoske Ueda at 71 in 2011, Bob Ellis at 89 in 2018, and Kevin Greene at 58 in 2020 (thanks to Tony Richards)
–Our annual listing of independent promotions and their work in similar endeavors the past few weeks. Thanks to Bob Magee for the rundown:
Thus far, 148 indie promotions in 28 states and Canadian provinces have scheduled a total of 214 shows and events through the end of the Holiday Season.
Total 2025 contributions as of December 18 are 23,480 toys, 112 backpacks/sets of school supplies, a van filled with winter jackets and clothing, another 50 winter coats, 2 boxes of bedclothes/linens, 20 Halloween outfits,26,503 pounds (over 13 TONS) of canned/non-perishable food, a “number of large bags” of pet food, and $696,980.15 US in cash donations.
* Big Time Wrestling returned to Newark, CA on August 8 for Family Giving Tree, and the third annual Back-To-School Backpack Drive collecting 62 backpacks for local kids in need, grades K-12.
* EPW Wrestling came to Philadelphia, MS on August 9 for the annual Headlocks for Toys Toy Drive, with WWE/WCW/nWo star Buff Bagwell, <b>collecting over 100 toys.</b>
* Ottawa/Gatineau, ON independent Mystery Wrestling ran a 24-hour livestream wrestling match on August 11/12 raising $36,900 CAD ($26,802.50 US) for the 14th annual Fighting Back: Wrestling with Cancer effort.
* Capital City Championship Wrestling returned to Ottawa, ON August 15, raising a collective total for the Canadian Cancer Society of $132,000 CAD/$95,517.20 US at the 14th annual Fighting Back: Wrestling with Cancer.
* Supreme Pro Wrestling teamed up with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation to raise money for its annual fundraiser against childhood cancer on August 17 in Elk Grove, CA raising $3,790>.
* Mall Mania, a wrestling event and fan expo with Tommy Dreamer and Arn Anderson, came to the Four Seasons Town Centre in Greensboro, NC on August 17 and raised $300 for Blue Hearts for Autism.
* Pro Wrestling King, in cooperation with Fishers BBQ and Chips’ Annual School Supplies Drive, held a Pack a Back Pack show on August 17 in South Bend, IN, collecting 30 full back packs with school supplies, and shoes.
* Love Wrestling Canada did their August 19 Quizplex monthly online fundraiser, raising $150 for Dallas Hope Charities.
* Prestige Wrestling ran its most unique show ever on August 23 in Hillsboro, OR for FJR raising $4,500 for RAINN-the nation’s largest sexual abuse charity.
* No Fold Pro Wrestling returned to Murphysboro, TN on August 24 and raised $48 for Special Olympics.
* Memphis Wrestling came to Tupelo, MS at the Tupelo Furniture Market on August 22 to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with Rikishi appearing, raising at least $25,000> at this event.
* Rock Solid Wrestling returned to Kirkland Lake, ON this August 23 to benefit the Community Living Kirkland Lake in Kirkland Lake, ON; which assists developmentally challenged adults, raising $3,588 CAD/$2,565 US.
* West Coast Pro Wrestling returned to Oakland, CA on September 4, raising $500 for Oakland for All.
* Veteran Pro Wrestling returned to Spring Hill, FL for a show on September 6 as part of a Toys for Tots effort that will last until>December 5, taking digital donations for toys to be distributed.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Barrie, ON this September 6; collecting 300 pounds of canned food for the local food bank.
* EMERGE Professional Wrestling returned to Columbus, IN on September 6, with a food pantry collection for Love Chapel, filling a truck with around 50 pounds of canned/non-perishable food.
* Top Tier Wrestling returned to Hamilton, ON this September 6 with a food drive collecting three truckloads of canned and non-perishable food to the Six Nations Food Bank in Ohsweken, ON.
* Smash Master Wrasslin/Phantom Six Wrestling/5XW presented Smash Family Picnic in Bethlehem, PA on September 7; raising $700 for cancer research.
* Insane Wrestling Revolution held a drive to bring back to school items, backpacks, or snacks for school kids at their September 11 Monroe, MI show collecting 20 bags worth of school supplies.
* Show-Me State Wrestling presented Freedom Bash 2025 on September 12 to benefit the Jefferson City, MO Salvation Army, helping work with the homeless, food pantry, and more.
* Cottage Hills Wrestling Alliance appeared at the Alton, IL Alton Pride event on September 13 with multiple shows throughout the day.
* Indiana Powerhouse Wrestling returned to Muncie, IN on September 13, in a suicide awareness show.
* Arkansas Wrestling Association presents Slamming For A Cure in Blytheville, AR on September 13.
* Brew City Wrestling comes to Waukesha, WI on September 13 for A Night For Barbara, raising <b>$1,760</b> for funeral costs
* 1CW Pro Wrestling presented Lines Cross on September 13 in Houston, DE to raising $2,176 for Autism Awareness.
* Wrestle Against Hunger returned to Tulsa, OK on September 13, distributing an average of 700 pounds of food, including meats, canned goods, non-perishables, and assorted foodstuffs.
* NEOPro Wrestling returns to Niagara Falls, ON this September 13, collecting 394 pounds of canned and non-perishable food for Project Share.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Belleville, ON this September 13; canned food collection for local food bank.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Whitby, ON this September 14; canned food collection for local food bank. 750 pounds of canned/non-perishable food was collected.
* Cannonball Fest took place on September 14 in New Providence, NJ, raising over $40,000 to benefit Jeff Cannonball in his fight against ALS. Their GoFundMe for Jeff Cannonball saw an additional $154,022 contributed through the evening of December 1.
* AWARE returned to Newton, GA on September 15, raising $362.50 for Arms REACH Ministries, providing direct social services to Baker County residents.
* Limitless Wrestling returned to Westbrook, ME on September 20 to collect 776 pounds of dry goods and non-perishables for Locker Project Maine.
* No Fold Pro Wrestling returned to Murphysboro, IL on September 21 to raise $25 for Special Olympics.
* Love Wrestling held another Quizplex on September 23 raising $250 CAD/$180 US to benefit the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation in Winnipeg, MB.
* Empire State Wrestling returned to Niagara Falls, ON this September 26 for its third annual non-perishable food drive with Little Free Pantries NT, collecting 100 pounds of food.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Peterborough, ON this September 26, collecting canned/non-perishable foods for the local food bank.
* Primetime Wrestling returned to Prince George, BC on September 26/27 raising $1,000 CAD/$714 US to benefit Spirit of the North Healthcare Adolescent Psychiatric Assessment Unit. The promotion also donated many of their tickets to Striking CUPE and Postal workers to treat them and their families to a night out when their paychecks were affected.
* Journey Independent Championship Wrestling returned on September 27 in Martinsville, IN for the Austin Fury Memorial Tournament, raising $300 to benefit Suicide Awareness.
* Titan Championship Wrestling returned to Bayville NJ on September 27 as part of raising funds for pet adoption and care at Rock 2 Adopt. $15,000 was donated.
* AML Wrestling returned to Winston-Salem, NC on September 27, raised $1,000 for Bustin’ For Autism.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Kingston, ON this September 27, collecting canned/non-perishable foods for the local food bank.
* Wrestle Against Hunger returned to Tulsa, OK on September 27, distributing an average of 700 pounds of food, including meats, canned goods, non-perishables, and assorted foodstuffs.
* Independent Pro Wrestling returned to Brantford, ON this September 27, collecting 2 boxes of food for the Brantford Food Bank.
* Crossfire Wrestling returned to The Merritton Lions Club, St Catharines, ON this September 28, for FIRED UP 2025. Partial proceeds will go to The Niagara Peninsula Foundation for Children.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Fenelon Falls, ON this September 28, collecting canned/non-perishable foods for the local food bank, with 325 pounds of canned and non-perishable food collected over the three weekend shows.
* Magnum Wrestling presented Over The Top at Granary Green, Ralston, NE on October 3 to raise $16,630 for Little Leaf Learning Center.
* Wrestling With Purpose presented A Night For Marcus on October 3 in Pembroke, NC, raising <b>$1,200</b> for an area cancer victim.
* Ignite Pro Wrestling comes to Carterville, IL on October 4, raising $700 for breast cancer awareness.
* IWF returned to North Arlington, NJ on October 4 with world-class athletes compete for the Heavyweight, American, Tag Team and Women’s Championships, raising <b>at least $4,000</b> to benefit the Michael Robert Cammett Jr. Memorial Foundation.
* Imperial Wrestling Entertainment returns to Houghton Lake, MI on October 4, collecting new and gently used 20 full Halloween costumes to donate to needy families.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Cobourg, ON this October 4, collecting canned/non-perishable foods for the local food bank.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Aurora, ON this October 5, collecting canned/non-perishable foods for the local food bank, collecting <b>475</b> pounds for the weekend.
* Timmy Global Health presented the 24th annual Timmy Takedown on October 11 in Kirklin, IN, raising <b>$20,900</b> The event is run by Dr. Chuck Dietzen (fka independent professional wrestler Dr. Death and Dr. Doom), founder of Timmy Global Health. Timmy Global Health works to engage volunteers for global health for children world wide.
* 1CW Pro Wrestling returned on October 11 in Houston, DE to benefit the American Cancer Society, raising <b>$2,218</b>
* Wrestle Against Hunger returned to Tulsa, OK for a special Sunday matinee on October 12, distributing an average of <b>700</b> pounds of food, including meats, canned goods, non-perishables, and assorted foodstuffs.
* Phoenix Championship Wrestling and Phoenix Villains came to Mesa, AZ on October 18, raising <b>$3,000</b> for Christmas presents for Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
* Appalachian Championship Wrestling returned to Winfield, WV on October 18 for Barnyard Beatdown 5, raising $700 for West Virginia Horse Network, Inc.
* Pro Warrior Alliance/ACPW returned to York, PA on October 18 for Headlock on Hunger, collecting <b>nearly 1,000 pounds of canned and non-perishable foods.</b>
* Interspecies Wrestling presented the Canadian version of Cannonbrawl on October 18, in Chateauguay, QU, Canada as ISW and friends fundraise for one of their own. Jeff Cannonball, diagnosed with ALS. They raised <b>$10,021.27 CAD/$7,132.32 US</b>.
* Great Lakes Championship Wrestling returned to Burlington, WI on October 18 for Burlington Brawl, raising <b>$8,500</b> for 2 Veterans charities, including Veterans Outreach of Wisconsin, Anderson-Murphy VFW, and Project RISE UP, an ADA compliant playground.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Caledon/Bolton, ON on October 19, collecting 230 pounds of canned and non-perishable food for local food banks.
* Love Wrestling held another Quizplex on October 21, raising $190 to benefit the Canadian Mental Health Association.
* Insane Wrestling Revolution held a toy/food/clothing drive at their October 23 show collecting <b>3 large boxes and bags of winter jackets, beddings and toys for The Oaks of Righteousness Homeless Shelter.</b>
* Premier Wrestling Federation returned to Jacksonville, NC on October 24 as a benefit for Colby Corino who suffered a serious neck and spine injury raising <b>$1,900</b>. The related GoFundMe as of November 20 is <b>$19,471</b>
* Wrestle Against Hunger returned to Tulsa, OK on October 25, distributing an average of <b>700</b> pounds of food, including meats, canned goods, non-perishables, and assorted foodstuffs.
* Premier Wrestling Federation teamed up with the Down Syndrome Network of Onslow and Carteret Counties (DSNOCC) during the 14th Annual Buddy Walk on October 25.
* EPW Wrestling returns to Booneville, MS on October 25, raising <b>$4,155</b> in a benefit for medical and last expenses for James “Bonecrusher” Mitchell.
* Primetime Wrestling comes to Prince George, BC on October 25 at the Real Canadian Superstore in the Fight Hunger Food Drive for the Salvation Army of Canada Food Bank collecting around <b>100 pounds</b> of canned/non-perishable foods, plus toiletries and diapers.
* Amped Up Wrestling returned to Inglewood, CA on October 26 to benefit Ability First Center JHAM, raising <b>$3,500</b>
* In cooperation with Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, Reena Rumble took place in Toronto on October 27. This family-friendly wrestling extravaganza brought some of the biggest names in the ring, including Matt Hardy, Josh Alexander, Mike Santana, Carlito, and Gisele Shaw! It was Toronto’s #1 wrestling charity event, supporting a great cause, and raised <b>$110,386 CAD/$79,177.12 US</b>
* Midwest All-Star Wrestling held its annual fundraising dinner and Q&A with Great Muta on October 30 in Bloomington, MN; then the annual Women of Nations Grand Slam 7 on November 1 in North St. Paul, MN, raising funds for the Women of Nations shelter that works with survivors of domestic violence/sexual abuse. While a final total has still not been announced due to the government shutdown, staff of Women of Nations indicated the event nearly equalled last year’s event, raising at least <b>$100,000</b>
* Generation Next Pro Wrestling returned to Cynthiana, KY on November 1, collecting 3 full boxes of canned food for the City of Cynthiana Community Food Drive.
* ACWF returned to Murphy, NC on November 1 raising $95 and collected 6 toys to benefit Shop With A Cop and Toys for Tots.
* Ephesians Pro Wrestling came to Rockwell, TX on November 1 in a Toys for Tots show, filling <b>3 boxes full of toys</b>.
* Wrestling for a Cause returned to Broken Arrow, OK on November 1 to raise <b>$2,100</b> for a young area cancer patient.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Stratford, ON this November 1; collecting canned/nonperishable food for the local food bank.
* Let’s Wrestle/Limitless Wrestling returned to Dover-Foxcroft, ME on November 1, raising $400 for Helping Hands With Heart.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Gwillimbury, ON this November 2, collecting 260 pounds of canned/nonperishable food for local food banks over the weekend.
* Boca Raton Championship Wrestling returned to Boca Raton, FL on November 2, Holiday Toy Drive for Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, collecting “a few hundred” toys.
* Stunt Cat & Friends Save Christmas came to Scranton, PA on November 8, raised at least <b>$3,000</b> to benefit United Cerebral Palsy Angel Tree.
* MMWA Pro Wrestling returned to the South Broadway Athletic Club in St. Louis, MO on November 8 to benefit St. Anthony’s Food Pantry with around <b>100</b> pounds of canned/non-perishable food.
* Wrestle Against Hunger returned to Tulsa, OK on November 8, distributing an average of <b>700</b> pounds of food, including meats, canned goods, non-perishables, and assorted foodstuffs.
* Fantastic League of Wrestling/All Star Lucha Libre/Zero1 USA presented United Against Hunger in Valparaiso, IN on November 8 to raise enough money for 500 turkeys, approximately <b>$9,900</b>.
* 1CW Pro Wrestling returned to Houston, DE on November 8 raising <b>$2,365</b> to benefit Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome Network, Inc.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Lindsay, ON on November 8, collecting around 100 pounds canned/nonperishable food for the local food bank.
* XWE Pro Wrestling presented Headlock on Hunger: Homecoming on Saturday, November 8 from the Hocking College Student Center in Nelsonville, OH, collecting <b>228</b> pounds of canned/non-perishable food.
* Outkast Wrestling Revolution returned to Grays Ferry, CT on November 8 and donated a very large tote filled to the top and a big box full of toys to the children of Grays Ferry Elementary School.
* Independent Pro Wrestling presented Hammering Cancer 6 on November 9 in Hamilton, ON to raise <b>$4,500 CAD/$3,224.54 US</b> money and awareness for the Juravinski Cancer Centre.
* Three Legacies Wrestling collected a full van’s worth of winter coats for the Coats of Friendship coat drive on November 15
* United Pro Wrestling debuted in Scottsville, KY on November 14 at the James E. Bazzell Middle School, collecting around 140 toys with a Toys for Tots toy drive event.
* 1 UP Wrestling presented Slamsgiving on November 15 to benefit the Food Bank of Central New York, collecting <b>36 bags of food, PLUS an additional 450 donated meals.</b>
* NEO Pro Wrestling returned to Canton, OH on November 15, collecting <b>200 pounds of food</b> along with a monetary donation will provide 300 meals to benefit the Akron-Canton FoodBank, plus more to be determined.
* United Wrestling/Nova Scotia presented Cassidy’s Fight in West Hants, NS, Canada on November 15; raising <b>$4,500 CAD/$3,206.61 US</b> to benefit a young cancer victim.
* Brew City Wrestling returned to Waukesha, WI on November 15 for the annual Headlock for Hunger show, collecting “a couple of barrels” of canned and non-perishable food.
* Love Wrestling Canada’s Big Bad Boris did a 40-hour Exstream through November 15 to benefit the Canadian Mental Health Association, raising <b>$2,620 CAD/$1868.43 US</b>
* SCW Pro Wrestling returned to Blue Grass, IA on November 15, collecting two tubs full of toys
* Phoenix Championship Wrestling returned to Mesa, AZ on November 15, collecting 168 pounds of canned/non-perishable food for tbe Mesa United Food Bank.
* AWARE returned to Newton, GA on November 15, raising $95 for to Cancer Ties.
* Mega Championship Wrestling returned to Elyria, OH on November 15 with a Thanksgiving Food Drive; collecting at least 300 pounds of canned and non-perishables for Lorain County Department of Aging, Elyria Freedge, and VFW Post 1079
* Wrestling Is 4 The Dogs Charity Event took place at the Millenium Wrestling Academy, Los Angeles, CA on November 15, to help dogs in need, raising <b>$2,900</b> which will go to Melitas Dream Rescue and Underdog Community Project
* Total Wrestling Federation presented Wreck the Halls on November 15, in Sacramento, CA collecting 30 toys in its annual Shriners Hospital toy drive show,
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Meaford, ON on November 15; canned food collection for local food bank.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Orillia, ON on November 16; canned food collection for local food bank, collecting 270 pounds for the weekend.
* Capital Pro Wrestling came to Lansing, MI on November 16, raising $500 for Fledge’s Free Pantry Wish List.
* Supreme Pro Wrestling held its annual food drive show, Still Hungry, on November 16 in Elk Grove, CA, collecting at least 100 pounds of canned and non-perishables for the Elk Grove Food Bank.
* Midwest Championship Wrestling Illinois collected 50 toys for kids in need during this holiday season at St. Jude’s Children Memorial Hospital in Peoria, IL.
* Prairieland Independent Wrestling returned to Virdin, IL on November 21, raising $450 for Wrestling For A Cure to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital – Central and Southern Illinois
* Sean Henderson and Premier Wrestling Federation returned to Philadelphia, PA on November 21, raising <b>$1,800</b> in a benefit for Colby Corino.
* Wrestle Against Hunger returned to Tulsa, OK on November 22, distributing an average of <b>700</b> pounds of food, including meats, canned goods, non-perishables, and assorted foodstuffs.
* 1CW Pro Wrestling returned on November 22 to Harrington, DE for Slamsgiving, a Toys for Tots show, with <b>four boxes of toys collected and $2,314 in cash donations</b>.
* Lucky Pro Wrestling returned to Leominster, MA on November 22, beginning its annual Toy Drive, collecting seven boxes of toys.
* Ignite Pro Wrestling returned to Marion, IL on November 22, raising <b>$4,000</b> for the Shop With A Cop toy drive.
* Battletested Pro Wrestling came to Oak Creek, WI on November 22, collecting around 150 toys for Operation Takedown for Toys drive to benefit the Salvation Army.
* Vancouver Island Pro Wrestling returned to Nanaimo, BC on November 22 with its annual Headlocks for Hunger food drive event, collecting <b>400 pounds</b> for the Loaves and Fishes Food Bank.
* Unsanctioned Pro Wrestling returned to Columbus, OH on November 22, working together with Bravo Artist and Ace of Cups, collecting 120 pounds of canned and non-perishable foods to benefit the Mid-Ohio Food Collective.
* Next Level Pro Wrestling returned to Sacramento, CA on November 22, collecting 257 pounds for Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services.
* Wrestling for Disaster Funds took place at the Timberland Event Center, Camden, OH on November 22, raising $2,500 to benefit Ohio Hope Builders.
* Independent Pro Wrestling returned to Brantford, ON on November 22, collecting 19 pounds of food for the Brantford Food Bank.
* GCW Charity Wrestling held ComicCons in Owen Sound, ON on November 22 and Ajax, ON on November 23, and collected 150 pounds of canned/non-perishable food.
* T-Fest 10 took place on November 21 and 22 in Edmonton, AB to benefit Canadian Mental Health Association and Wellspring Cancer Support Alberta, raising at least $6,690 CAD/$4,787.45.
* Gulf State Wrestling held its Toys for Tots show on November 23 in Berwick, LA, collecting around 200 toys.
* Hype and Glory Wrestling presents Wrestling for Community on November 23 in Fouke, AR, raising over $1,000 money for Shop With A Cop
* Jersey Championship Wrestling returned to Ridgefield Park, NJ on November 23, collecting 8 large bags worth of canned/non-perishables for the local foodbank.
* Southern States Wrestling returned to Kingsport, TN on November 28, collecting a van trunk full of non-perishable food items, and unwrapped toys for Hunger First.
*1 Up Wrestling and RetroGameCon featured an epic evening of gaming, trivia, cosplay, and giving in Syracuse, NY called Thanksgaming on November 26 raising $1,673 and a few big boxes of food donations, with proceeds benefiting the Food Bank of Central NY.
* United States Wrestling returned to Laurel, DE on November 28 for an autograph session/Toys for Tots drive collecting 35 toys and counting.
* UWC Pro Wrestling returned for its 31st annual Toys for Tots Show on November 29 in New Egypt, NJ, collecting about 400 toys, 7 bikes, and cash for another 8 bikes).
* Ephesians Pro Wrestling returned to Rockwell, TX on November 29 in a Turnbuckles for Tots show, filling 6 boxes full of toys.
* Ascend Pro Wrestling returned to Norwood, OH on November 29 for the Secret Slamta holiday toy collection, and “will eventually will have 700+ toys going to those in need”.
* Top Tier Wrestling returned to Hamilton, ON this November 29, collecting <b>at least 300 toys for Starlight Children’s Foundation</b>
* Midwest All-Pro Wrestling returns to Brandon, SD on November 29 for MAPMANIA: 10 Year Anniversary show. The show happened despite a massive blizzard with a partial roster and a crowd of nearby residents and hotel guests attending. A number of large bags of pet food were donated to help the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society.
* IWA Productions returns to Mt. Vernon, IL on November 29, canned food drive, collected 30 cans of food and almost $120 in cash donation
* MMWA Pro Wrestling returned to Imperial, MO on November 29, collecting around 300 pounds of canned and non-perishable food for a local food pantry collection, despite a Midwest blizzard that affected other shows.
* Three Legacies Wrestling returned to Lancaster, PA on November 29, with around 100 toys collected, plus collecting food for the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Smith’s Falls, ON this November 29 for a ComicCon, collecting canned/non-perishable foods for the local food bank.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Brockville, ON on November 30 for a ComicCon, collecting 275 pounds collected for the weekend of canned/non-perishable foods for local food banks.
* Live Pro Wrestling, Cojo’s Toy World, and the Portuguese Kids returned to New Bedford, MA on November 30, collecting 427 toys and counting for Christmas Wishes.
* Battlefield Pro Wrestling returned to Brodheadsville, PA on November 30 with a Teddy Bear Toss with an estimated 300 teddy bears thrown into the ring. Every teddy bear collected will be donated to local fire companies, EMS, police departments, and hospitals to bring comfort to kids in need.
* ACTION Wrestling held its annual Toys for Tots Show in Tyrone, GA on December 5, collecting 2 boxes of toys.
* Wrestling With Purpose presented December 5 in Pembroke, NC for the Clash 4 The Kids Toys for Tots show, collecting <b>350 toys.</b>
* Chaotic Wrestling returned to Tewksbury, MA on December 5, collecting a box of canned and nonperishable food items for Tewksbury Community Pantry.
* IJW Wrestling returned to Philadelphia, PA on December 5, collecting 50 toys at their Toys for Tots show
* Big Time Wrestling presented Not So Silent Night on December 5 in Newark, CA with Toa Liona and Harley Cameron collecting 200 toys at its annual toy drive for Family Giving Tree.
* Pure Kick Ass Wrestling and UCW returned to Brownsville, TN on December 5, collecting 45 toys for Toys for Tots.
* Hamilton Pro Wrestling returned to Hamilton, ON this December 5 for Wreck The Halls, benefits Good Shepherd and Friends with Hearts with <b>at least 200 toys and 360 pounds of canned and non-perishable food</b>
* Ignite Pro Wrestling returned to Carterville, IL on December 6, collecting toys for Toys for Tots.
* Dreamwave Wrestling returned to Lasalle, Il on December 6 for Good as Gold. Thanks to the incredible generosity during the 2025 Toy Drive at Uprising 7 and Good As Gold Weekend, Dreamwave collected “a staggering 215 toys”</b>
* Hometown Pro Wrestling came to Asheville, NC on December 6, hosting “Christmas for All” at the Asheville Mall with a charity drive collecting “hundreds of dollars” for families affected by Hurricane Helene, making its debut at the Asheville Mall working in conjunction with Southern States Wrestling and North American Wrestling Alliance.
* Flex Wrestling comes to Savona, NY on December 6, collecting a box of toys for Steuben County Toys for Tots. The promotion will also start a yearlong partnership with Toys for Tots starting in February
* Imperial Wrestling Entertainment returned to Houghton Lake, MI on December 6, collecting around 70 pounds of canned and non-perishable foods food drive for Roscommon County Food Pantry
* Pro Wrestling Epic returned to Pontoon Beach, IL on December 6 for Chiva Jam 2: Feliz Navidad, collecting 5 boxes, worth $2,000 for Toys for Tots.
* Crossfire Wrestling returned to The Merritton Lions Club, St Catharines, ON this December 6 for the Jingle Bell Brawl, raising <b>$3,000 CAD/$2,169.43 USD to The Niagara Peninsula Foundation for Children.
* 1CW Pro Wrestling returned on December 6 in Houston, DE for the annual Toys for Joy show. <b>Two full boxes, a table of toys plus $1,100 cash were collected for Toys for Tots, plus $2,000 through Toys for Joy for the Carrol Jester Family.</b> Jester was the former Fire Chief of Houston who recently passed away.
* Rocket Pro Wrestling returned to Joliet, IL for Christmas Chaos for Children on December 6; collecting 253 toys at its annual toy drive for LaRabida Children’s Hospital
* Delmarva Wrestling Digest presented Holiday Hope: Wrestling for Wellbeing on December 6 in Seaford, DE for their 11th annual Toy Drive, <b>collecting 8 boxes</b>of toys donated to the Toys for Tots Foundation and A.I. DuPont Children’s Hospital.
* KSWA held its 25th and final annual FanFest and Holiday Toy Drive for Saturday, December 6, in Pittsburgh, PA, collecting over <b>nine construction bags full of toys</b>
* Generation Next Pro Wrestling returned to Cynthiana, KY on December 6, collecting 50 toys for the Christmas Toy Drive. It’s a part of the larger Cynthiana Bike Fest campaign that saw a 14 foot trailer to Leesburg Church already and a truck load to Harrison County Fire Department.
* Texoma Pro Wrestling returned to Ardmore. TX on December 6, collecting at least 80 toys for local children
* KnokX Pro Wrestling returned to Sun Valley, CA on December 6 for Jingle Bell Knokx, collecting at least 100 toys (and continuing to collect…).
* EPW Wrestling returned to Booneville, MS on December 6, Annual Toy Drive benefiting the Booneville Junior Auxiliary Angel Tree, collecting at least a box of toys.
* 1UP Wrestling presented Final Fight II on December 6 in Syracuse, NY, collecting a box of toys for Toys for Tots.
* IWC Wrestling returned to Elizabeth, PA on December 6 for The Pittsburgh Classic, collecting a car trunk full of toys for the Toys for Pittsburgh Tikes collection.
* Universal Championship Wrestling returned to Anderson, SC on December 6, Toy Drive for Children In Anderson, collecting 115 toys to be distributed through Rejuvenate Church in Anderson South Carolina to children in the community in need.
* Texas Independent Professional Wrestling returned to Bonham, TX on December 6, collecting 5 “big bags of toys” for Fannin County Crisis Center/Toys for Tots.
* Prairieland Independent Wrestling returned to Carlinville, IL on December 6 for Christmas Showdown, with toy collections for area children in cooperation with McCormick Strength Training, D&D Fitness and Tanning, and The Zone Virden collecting <b>1,000 toys on the weekend.
* MCW Pro Wrestling returned to Perryville, MD on December 6 for its annual Toys for Tots Show, collecting 30 toys.
* Battlefield Pro Wrestling returned to Allentown, PA on December 6 with the second Teddy Bear Toss of the Holiday season, with around 100 teddy bears thrown into the ring.
* Royalty Wrestling returned to Sellersville, PA on December 6 with at least a hundred toys collected for Toys for Tots.
* Wrestling for a Cause returned to Broken Arrow, OK on December 6 for Fight For Them All, raising $800 for cancer charities.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Newmarket, ON this December 6, collecting 170 pounds of canned and non-perishable food for the local food bank.
* Pure Pro Wrestling returned to Holland, MI on December 6, collecting a box of toys for the VFW’s Toys for Tots collection.
* Championship Entertainment Productions came to Seaford, NY on December 7 for Toydrives and Piledrives, collecting 90 toys this weekend in its toy drive and raising just over $1,500 for charity.
* Florida Premier Wrestling and the Christmas Toy Project presented Hope for The Holidays in St. Petersburg, FL on December 7, collecting a U-haul full of toys, around 500 toys</b> and funds for those in need.
* Pro Wrestling Symphony returned to Nashville, TN on December 7, collecting 144 pounds of canned/nonperishable foods for Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.
* Kentucky Wrestling Federation returns to Frankfort, KY on December 7, collecting a box full of Toys for Tots. The roster is also doing a Galilean Home Ministries visit to 33 local mentally challenged individuals bringing each their own bag of toys and treats. In addition, they have done a lot of community outreach to help those with the Wanda Joyce Robinson foundation as it helps children that come from homes affected by incarceration.
* Ringside Collectibles and Wrestlingfigures.com held the eighth annual Major Wrestling Figures Holiday Toy Drive through December 9, concluding with the Massacre on 34th Street Fight Holiday Toy Drive at the Create A Pro Wrestling Academy in Hicksville, NY. The Toy Drive collected $30,000 in toys, around 3,000 toys.
* Revolt Ministries, associated with The Guardian’s Legacy promotion in Florida is beginning its annual 12-day Stuff The Bus Toy Drive in Panama City, FL from December 7-17, with 11,398 toys, surpassing their yearly goal of 10,000 toys.
* Deadlock Pro Wrestling returned to Cary, NC on December 12, raising at least $20,000 to benefit the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina.
* Bizarre Underground returns to Tulsa, OK on December 12, collecting <b>300 unwrapped toys.
* SoCal Pro Wrestling returned to San Carlos, CA on December 12 for its annual Holiday Toy Drive, collecting 100 toys.
* Wrestle Against Hunger returned to Tulsa, OK on December 13, distributing an average of 700 pounds of food, including meats, canned goods, non-perishables, and assorted foodstuffs.
* Remarkable Wrestling returned to Nesconset, NY on December 13, collecting 52 toys for Tots for Tots.
* Blitzkrieg Pro Wrestling returned to Enfield, CT on December 13, collecting at least 200 toys for its annual Toy Drive
* Mega Championship Wrestling returned to Elyria, OH on December 13 for Night of Champions, collecting 50 items for a winter coat drive.
* Brew City Wrestling returned to Waukesha, WI on December 13 collected 50 toys; as part of Presents for Ayden with Insane Championship Wrestling-Milwaukee on December 19 and 4th Wall Wrestling on December 20.
* Chinlock Wrestling returned to Kingston, ON, Canada, on December 13, with <b>$1,600 CAD/$1,155.18 USD</b> donated to BGC South East to support children and youth, plus 200 pounds of food for the Partners in Mission food bank.
* Pro Wrestling Entertainment returned to Portland, TN on December 13 for Christmas For The Kids with Big Ben Bishop and Mickie James, collecting at least 50 pounds of canned goods for Hands of Hope Food Pantry and distributing 100 gifts to area children.
* Honor Among Wrestling returned to LeClaire, IA on December 13 for its annual Toy Drive Show, collecting 200 toys for Iowa Children’s Hospital.
* New Breed Wrestling returned to Eldon, MO on December 13 for its annual Toys for Tots Show, collecting <b> $3,500 worth of toys.</b>
* American Premier Wrestling returned to Statesboro, GA on December 13 for the 26th annual Toys for Tots Fundraiser Dinner/Show, with at least one overflowing box of toys collected….
* State Line Wrestling returned to Pensacola, FL on December 13, collecting 25 toys for Toys for Tots.
* Pro Wrestling 225 returned to Plaquemine, LA on December 13, raising $500 for St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
* The Establishment Wrestling returned to Casselberry, FL on December 13 for Wreck The Halls on December 6, and Wreck The Rewrapped Halls on December 13 with a Toys for Tots collection. collecting 3 boxes of toys.
* NTLL Lucha Libre returned to Palmdale, CA on December 14 for its annual Toy Drive, collecting 200 toys
* Gulf Coast Wrestling Alliance returned to Corpus Christi, TX on December 14, collecting around 50 toys for their Toys for Tots collection.
* Mall Mania presented the Christmas Chaos Wrestling & Gaming Expo on December 14 in Greensboro, NC raising <b>$2,000</b> to benefit Blu Hearts for Autism.
* World Domination Wrestling Alliance returned to Martinsburg, WV on December 13, collecting 5 boxes of canned and non-perishable food for Salvation Army Food Drive
* Love Wrestling held another Quizplex on December 16 to benefit Toys for Tots.</i>
* Demand Lucha returns to Toronto, ON on December 18, Toy Drive for Starlight Foundation Canada
* Hybrid Wrestling Entertainment returns to Green Bay, WI on December 19, collecting canned and non-perishable food for Paul’s Pantry
* Island Pro Wrestling returns on December 20 to Charlottesville, PEI, Canada at PEI Brewing Company to benefit the PEI Humane Society.
* Next Level Pro Wrestling returns to Sacramento, CA on December 20, benefiting Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services.
* Live Pro Wrestling – Iowa’s Wrestling returns to Tama, IA on December 20, free will toy collection
* Real Shoot Wrestling returns to Clarksburg, WV on December 20, free with an unwrapped, unopened toy
* Future Stars of Wrestling returns to Las Vegas, NV on December 20 with a Toy Drive.
* Winter Wonderslam returns to Pahrump, NV on December 21 at the Mccullough Arena, distributing toys in southern Nevada.
* Three Legacies Wrestling presents the Fill Our Ring Toy Drive from November 11-December 21 in Lancaster, PA, and has collected at least 50 toys so far. They seek to fill a wrestling ring for the campaign.
* Supreme Pro Wrestling returns to Elk Grove, CA on December 21 for Hostile Holidays, the annual toy drive show.
* Southern States Wrestling returned to Kingsport, TN on December 26 to collect non-perishable food items, and unwrapped toys for Hunger First.
* Wrestle Against Hunger returned to Tulsa, OK on December 27.
* MCW Pro Wrestling returns to Joppa, MD on December 27 for Season’s Beatings, including a collection for a local food bank.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Oshawa, ON this December 27, collecting canned/non-perishable foods for the local food bank.
* GCW Charity Wrestling returned to Peterborough, ON this coming January 3, collecting canned/non-perishable foods for the local food bank.
– Garrett Gonzales and I have our week in review covering this week’s issue and the latest news and questions later this afternoon. Bryan Alvarez and I will be back on Sunday night with our weekend show.
– The new issue of the Wrestling Observer is up on the site covering the follow topics:
The story of John Cena’s retirement, the finish, the reaction, what WWE did and didn’t expect and thoughts on why they did what they did and why judging it now makes little sense in the big picture. We look at different aspects of the decision making and the fallacy of the “time-honored tradition phrasing here. We look at where Cena viably stands among the greats, the show itself, and Cena’s legacy.
We look at the post-match and post-show reaction, Paul Levesque and also look at the history of retirement matches with the biggest names in the history of the business. This is a real history lesson about what really is the tradition.
We have a story on Wrestle Kingdom’s card, why it turned out this way, as well as the finals of the New Japan tag team tournament.
We update the WBD sale story with the latest on Netflix and Paramount, just how strongly WBD publicly viewed the Paramount offer in a negative way and more
We run down the 2025 Tokyo Sports pro wrestling awards, with the winners, why they won, how the voting went, the nature of the voting and more in a year Saya Kamitani became the first woman wrestler to win MVP
A look at the retirement show and the career of El Hijo del Santo, the Santo gimmick, the cultural significance of the Santo name, Santo Jr, and notes on Santo’s career and most famous matches
We update the Continental Classic and Worlds Collide with business updates as well.
We look at the odds for upcoming matches
We look at the careers of Solomon Grundy, Miss Janeth and Ricky Romero Jr/Ricky Youngblood
We have the most detailed look at the television ratings of all the wrestling shows this past week as well as placings, comparisons and more, as well as an explanation of what the annual drops actually mean.
We look at another week of sellouts in CMLL, including the big Friday show and the Mistico vs Soberano feud
We look at Guerra de Titanes from AAA
We look at the financials from Cyberfight and what wrestler in specific they credited a better economic year to
Yota Tsuji talks the future of New Japan
What pro wrestling events in Japan were the most streamed in 2025
Update on Andrade
Former WWE tag champ going into Bare Knuckle boxing
Major AEW overseas ratings growth
Ticket sales to upcoming WWE and AEW shows
Chris Jericho update
Injury updates
Ilia Topuria marriage issues slows down career
An appeal by TKO on judge’s ruling about current fighter contracts
Notes on Paul vs. Joshua
Mick Foley breaks ties with WWE over Trump
TKO stock skyrockets
NXT Awards
– A big night tonight with the much-talked about Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul boxing match, SmackDown and the CMLL Dream match card.
– WWE is doing a show tonight in Grand Rapids, MI, which will be taping the 12/22 Raw and 12/26 Smackdown. We’re looking for reports on this show, with results, finishes, angles and highlights to [email protected]
Ilja Dragunov & Carmelo Hayes vs. Johnny Gargano & Tommaso Ciampa
Dexter Lumis & Joe Gacy vs. MFTs for the tag team titles
– Arena Mexico tonight has a PPV show called Dream Match Day:
Cibernetico with Rey Cometa, Calavera Jr. I, Calavera Jr. II, Electrico, Virus, Oro Jr., Polvora, Blue Shark, Robin, Espiritu Negro, Astral, Cancerbero, Diamond, Coyote, El Vigia and Sangre Imperial.
Atlantis Jr. & Xelhua vs. Angel de Oro & Yutani in the finals of the Gran Alternative tournament
Soberano Jr. vs. Kevin Knight
Mascara Dorada vs. Speedball Mike Bailey for the Historic welterweight title
Claudio Castagnoli vs. Ultimo Guerrero for the CMLL heavyweight title
A note on the show. Castagnoli when he first came to the U.S. used to trade for tapes of Ultimo Guerrero so this is a dream match for him. Dorada vs. Bailey should be something. Knight, Dorada, Bailey and Castagnoli all have to fly right after the show to New York for AEW TV tapings tomorrow and Sunday night at the Hammerstein Ballroom.
– We will be doing a poll on tonight’s Arena Mexico Dream show, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected]. The show will air, besides on the CMLL subscription service, it also airs on Triller streaming PPV outside of Mexico.
– We’re also looking for reports from the two AEW shows in New York with results, finishes, angles and highlights to [email protected]. The 12/20 show will be for the Christmas Eve episode of Dynamite and the 12/21 show will be taped for the Christmas night Collision show.
– Matches that will be taped in New York include:
Kazuchika Okada vs Bailey
Kyle Fletcher vs. Jack Perry
Kevin Knight vs. Pac
Pac vs. Perry
Orange Cassidy vs. Jon Moxley
Cassidy vs. Konosuke Takeshita
Claudio Castagnoli vs. Roderick Strong
Takeshita vs. Mascara Dorada
Strong vs. Dorada
The only person eliminated going into the weekend is Strong, but Dorada and Perry have little chance unless they win twice, and I don’t think that’s happening.
– WKYC-TV in Cleveland had a story on Joanna Sowards, the daughter of Earthquake John Tenta, training at the AIW wrestling school in the city.
– Arena Coliseo tomorrow night has Templario vs. Angel de Oro and Esfinge & Titan vs. Barboza & Difunto Arena Mexico Sunday has Atlantis & Atlantis Jr. vs. Euforia & Mephisto, Blue Panther vs. Barbaro Cavernario which is a weird match and Titan & Templario & Esfinge vs. Ultimo Guerrero & Gran Guerrero & Suka Jr.
– Dorada’s schedule was Orange Cassidy Wednesday in Manchester, UK, he may have done a show last night in Mexico, tonight vs. Bailey at Arena Mexico in a title match, CC matches Saturday and Sunday in New York, a trios match Monday in Puebla and a trios main event Tuesday in Guadalajara. Plus, the expectations of him are high. You can only do this for so long before your body breaks.
– The AAA show is Saturday night at 8 p.m. on the WWE YouTube Channel, Guerra de Titanes, from Guadalajara:
Rayo & Bravo Americano vs. Mr. Iguana & Nino Hamburguesa vs. La Parka & Octagon Jr. vs. Cruz Del Toro & JoaquinWilde
Nattie Neidhart & Faby Apache & Lola Vice vs. Flammer & La Hiedra & Maravilla
Laredo Kid defends the AAA cruiserweight title against Je’Von Evans and Jack Cartwheel
Wyatt Sicks vs. Dave the Clown & Psycho Clown & Pagano & Murder Crown
El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. defends the Latin American title against Ethan Page
El HIjo del Vikingo vs. Dragon Lee
Rey Mysterio & Rey Fenix vs Dominik Mysterio & Grande Americano
The show looks great on paper and would be expected to have super heat.
– Hiroshi Tanahashi beat Hiromu Takahashi in today’s NJPW main event in Gunma. He has weekend matches with Desperado and Kosei Fujita, the latter being his last match ever at Korakuen Hall.
– Teams announced for the gauntlet for the Never trios title at the 1/4 WrestleKingdom show are:
Toru Yano & Master Wato & Yoh
Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashii & Oleg Boltin
Tomohiro Ishii & Taichi & Satoshi Kojima
Sanada & Ren Narita & Yoshinobu Kanemaru
Tiger Mask & Togi Makabe & Ryusuke Taguchi
Kaisei Takechi and two mystery partners
They also teased a TMDK team with Hartley Jackson
It is mind boggling that Yuya Uemura, Zack Sabre Jr., Ryohei Oiwa, Yuto-Ice and Shota Umino are not on the company’s biggest attended show in almost 28 years. Literally they have one shot to win back older fans and hook people coming to see Tanahashi’s last match and Aaron Wolf’s debut, and they kept the talent they need to build around off the show.
– Autographed copies of PACHINKO MAN, Irv Muchnick’s first-ever English language book on the Rikidozan phenomenon and birth of Japanese pro wrestling, can be gotten for $20 USD to [email protected]. That will be considered the deposit and you will be billed for the balance when the retail price is set (it’s expected to be either $22.95 or $24.95). All direct orders are for autographed copies sold at the retail price, with free shipping to U.S. addresses (for Canadian addresses, add $10 USD for shipping; for all other foreign addresses, add $20 USD for shipping).
– Jayden Maiava, the starting quarterback at USC, is the grandson of Neff Maiava, who was one of the biggest pro wrestling stars in the history of Hawaii pro wrestling.
– Defy finishes the year with a 12/27 show at Washington Hall in Settle with Travis Williams vs. Timothy Thatcher and a triple threat for the Pacific Northwest title with Artemis Spencer vs. Cole Rivera vs. Guillermo Rosas. 12/28 at the Lodge Room in Los Angeles at the old Highland Park Masonic Lodge features Bryan Keith defending the Defy title against Thatcher, Royce Isaacs vs. Starboy Charlie, La Vipress vs. Viva Van, Johnnie Robbie vs. Brittnie Brooks, Steve Borden Jr. (Sting’s son) vs. Kiran Gray, Alan Angels vs. El Mexica vs. Chris Nasty vs. El Primohenio.
– Erik Watts turned 58 today. Delirious turned 44. (thanks to Tony Richards)
We’ve got a giant new issue of the Observer out today covering the Cena and Santo retirements as well as all the big events from the past week:
John Cena and El Hijo del Santo’s retirement shows and how they are so different
A look back at both’s careers and places in history
Where Santo went wrong
Key people who saved John Cena’s career
Why he never turned heel years ago
Marketing of Cena as The GOAT
How Cena ranks with the biggest draws in wrestling history
Update on WBD’s potential sales to Netflix or Paramount, what the deals entail and how this all affects AEW
Dwayne Johnson and his Golden Globe nomination
Odds for upcoming pro wrestling bouts
1,000,000th fan attends CMLL pro wrestling at Arena Mexico alone. Why this has never happened before, and the absolutely staggering part of the story that nobody talks about
UFC 323 coverage of the last UFC show on PPV for at least seven years
A look at NXT Deadline
A look at ROH Final Battle
A look at TNA Final Resolution
A look at the career of Steve “Mr. Electricity” Regal, death of territories, the shocking win over the Road Warriors and holding world titles in the AWA and NWA in the 80s.
The most detailed look at the ratings for all the TV shows over this past week
A look at major promotions joining together for different shows in 2026
A look at last week’s big shows at Arena Mexico, both a hell of a Friday and a big Tuesday with Bad Bunny under a Mistico mask in the front row
Key CMLL talent banged up
All Japan tag team tournament ends with a former rugby star from New Zealand and former member of the Harlem Globetrotters against each other.
NOAH’s big start of the year show
New wrestlers starting at NOAH including the brother of a UFC fighter
New Japan tag team tournament final standings and results
Big awards being announced this week
Actress who played Hall of Fame pro wrestler on a Netflix series wins major award for her performance
Where did the original star ratings in Mexico rating matches come from
Hulk Hogan album being re-released
Notes on AEW Worlds End
Andrade makes claims about what happened with AEW and WWE
Advance ticket sales for all the AEW and WWE upcoming shows
Lots more on Trump UFC event at the White House
UFC schedule
More on the Ali Act and attempting to change and subvert it
Dana White talks Francis Ngannou now that he wants to return
The most interest in buying tickets to a pro wrestling or UFC show in history took place this past week
Lots more on the two lawsuits going against Vince McMahon and WWE
The WWE TV schedule for this coming week
Big PPV main event match that fell through from earlier this year
On “What Do You Wanna Talk About?,” John Cena praised Cody Rhodes for his work ethic and expressed how proud he is of him:
I want to thank you because you are going nose-to-nose and you go as hard – in some cases harder than I can imagine. Your work ethic is aspirational. You will joust that, here is my volley – you are responsible for more than yourself. For many of these years, I was running a one-man show. And it was like, if you want to ride the wake, I’m the boat. You can get a tow and some skis, but we’re doing it my way.
You’re a family man. A dedicated father. A wonderful husband. You got people to support and that support you. And sometimes that helps, but, like, you are juggling so much more than I ever possibly could. So, thank you for overstaying [on the podcast episode]. You gave me another 35 minutes. It’s not lost on me. And a lot of me wanting to milk this is just, I miss my friend and I wanted a conversation with my friend. I love you, too. Thanks so much for this time. And man, you’re doing it. You’re doing it. And I’m so f*cking proud of you.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson surprised some families at Walmart with at least $500 each for Christmas shopping, along with a year’s supply of his Papatui personal care products:
So I pulled up to @Walmart and surprised some beautiful families from the YMCA.
Gave out a few buck$, gave out some toys and 5 Golden Tickets
As long as you can fit it in the cart, on the cart and it STAYS IN the cart, then you TAKE IT ALL HOME!!
As parents we all know, there’s no greater joy than seeing our little ones be HAPPY & SMILE!
Meeting these families made my day ~ thank you everyone for being so kind and cool.
From my @PapaTui_ and Walmart family to yours ~ Happy Holidays, & Merry Christmas
Other Wrestling
Tony Khan thanked Sports Illustrated for recognizing AEW in its year-end awards, with AEW winning the following categories:
Promotion of the Year: AEW
Female Wrestler of the Year: Mercedes Mone
Male Wrestler of the Year: Hangman Page
Tag Team of the Year: FTR
Best in the Ring: Will Ospreay
Best on the Mic: Toni Storm
Breakout Wrestler of the Year: Kyle Fletcher
Storyline of the Year: Hangman Page’s redemption arc
Rivalry of the Year: Hangman Page vs. Jon Moxley
Show of the Year: AEW Double or Nothing 2025
NJ.com published a story on Anthony Bowens, who discussed being able to be himself in an industry that historically was not very accepting of queer people:
I’m lucky that I work at a place where I can just be myself every single week. Existing successfully in a sport that historically hasn’t been very accepting of queer people is very cool. I hope it continues for others who can relate to me.
Australian wrestler Adam Brooks will be an entrant in MLW Battle Riot VIII. He joins Alex Hammerstone, Karl Anderson, Killer Kross, Doc Gallows, KUSHIDA, Matthew Justice, and Paul London among the confirmed entrants for the January 29 match in Kissimmee, Florida.
Historian Roy Lucier announced the passing of former AAA Reina de Reinas Champion Miss Janeth. She was 52 years old.
Hearing from multiple sources that Miss Janeth passed away. Undefeated in apuestas (five known in her career), she won the 2006 AAA Reina de Reina’s tournament and was also AAA Reina de Reina’s champion. She was involved in a ton of the companies (AAA) hottest angles in the late 90’s. I am not aware of her cause of death, but I know her health has been horrible the last three years
We’ve got a giant new issue of the Observer out today covering the Cena and Santo retirements as well as all the big events from the past week:
John Cena and El Hijo del Santo’s retirement shows and how they are so different
A look back at both’s careers and places in history
Where Santo went wrong
Key people who saved John Cena’s career
Why he never turned heel years ago
Marketing of Cena as The GOAT
How Cena ranks with the biggest draws in wrestling history
Update on WBD’s potential sales to Netflix or Paramount, what the deals entail and how this all affects AEW
Dwayne Johnson and his Golden Globe nomination
Odds for upcoming pro wrestling bouts
1,000,000th fan attends CMLL pro wrestling at Arena Mexico alone. Why this has never happened before, and the absolutely staggering part of the story that nobody talks about
UFC 323 coverage of the last UFC show on PPV for at least seven years
A look at NXT Deadline
A look at ROH Final Battle
A look at TNA Final Resolution
A look at the career of Steve “Mr. Electricity” Regal, death of territories, the shocking win over the Road Warriors and holding world titles in the AWA and NWA in the 80s.
The most detailed look at the ratings for all the TV shows over this past week
A look at major promotions joining together for different shows in 2026
A look at last week’s big shows at Arena Mexico, both a hell of a Friday and a big Tuesday with Bad Bunny under a Mistico mask in the front row
Key CMLL talent banged up
All Japan tag team tournament ends with a former rugby star from New Zealand and former member of the Harlem Globetrotters against each other.
NOAH’s big start of the year show
New wrestlers starting at NOAH including the brother of a UFC fighter
New Japan tag team tournament final standings and results
Big awards being announced this week
Actress who played Hall of Fame pro wrestler on a Netflix series wins major award for her performance
Where did the original star ratings in Mexico rating matches come from
Hulk Hogan album being re-released
Notes on AEW Worlds End
Andrade makes claims about what happened with AEW and WWE
Advance ticket sales for all the AEW and WWE upcoming shows
Lots more on Trump UFC event at the White House
UFC schedule
More on the Ali Act and attempting to change and subvert it
Dana White talks Francis Ngannou now that he wants to return
The most interest in buying tickets to a pro wrestling or UFC show in history took place this past week
Lots more on the two lawsuits going against Vince McMahon and WWE
The WWE TV schedule for this coming week
Big PPV main event match that fell through from earlier this year
Cody Rhodes announced that a new episode of his “What Do You Wanna Talk About?” podcast will premiere tomorrow with John Cena joining him as the guest: “For the FIRST TIME since retiring from the ring…@JohnCena joins us on #WhatDoYouWannaTalkAbout TOMORROW.”
Cena acknowledged Kevin Owens by sharing a photo of them shaking hands while Owens was in the crowd for Cena’s last match.
Estranged half-brothers Jonny and James reunite after their father’s mysterious death. As they search for the truth, buried secrets reveal a conspiracy threatening to tear their family apart.
Kazuchika Okada, who supports Manchester City in the Premier League, visited their Etihad Stadium while AEW is in the United Kingdom.
Ortiz will compete for Limitless Wrestling at their Limitless Rumble event in Lewiston, Maine on Friday, January 16. His tag team partner Eddie Kingston has also been announced for the show.
Megan Bayne & Joey Janela vs. JetSpeed (Kevin Knight & Mike Bailey) has been announced for Superpower Slam in New York City on Sunday, February 1. The event is being put on by Orange Crush magazine, Game Changer Wrestling, and Jersey Championship Wrestling to benefit the neurodivergent community.
I’m good now. I’m good. It’s been like – I was just figuring out, it’s been, I guess, six months or so. I haven’t wrestled yet. I do have a match in Australia in February. That’ll be the test. But yeah, I’m much better.
Gzim Selmani (former WWE wrestler Rezar of The Authors of Pain) has signed with Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship. His first fight for the promotion is expected to take place in February.
Braun Strowman and comedian Brad Williams appeared on a new episode of Something’s Burning with Bert Kreischer.
–We’ve got a giant new issue of the Observer out today covering the Cena and Santo retirements as well as all the big events from the past week. *John Cena and El Hijo del Santo’s retirement shows and how they are so different *A look back at both’s careers and places in history *Where Santo went wrong *Key people who saved John Cena’s career *Why he never turned heel years ago *Marketing of Cena as The GOAT *How Cena ranks with the biggest draws in wrestling history *Update on WBD’s potential sales to Netflix or Paramount, what the deals entail and how this all affects AEW *Dwayne Johnson and his Golden Globe nomination *Odds for upcoming pro wrestling bouts *1,000,000th fan attends CMLL pro wrestling at Arena Mexico alone. Why this has never happened before, and the absolutely staggering part of the story that nobody talks about *UFC 323 coverage of the last UFC show on PPV for at least seven years *A look at NXT Deadline *A look at ROH Final Battle * a look at TNA Final Resolution *A look at the career of Steve “Mr. Electricity” Regal, death of territories, the shocking win over the Road Warriors and holding world titles in the AWA and NWA in the 80s. *The most detailed look at the ratings for all the TV shows over this past week *A look at major promotions joining together for different shows in 2026 *A look at last week’s big shows at Arena Mexico, both a hell of a Friday and a big Tuesday with Bad Bunny under a Mistico mask in the front row *Key CMLL talent banged up *All Japan tag team tournament ends with a former rugby star from New Zealand and former member of the Harlem Globetrotters against each other. *NOAH’s big start of the year show *New wrestler starting at NOAH including the brother of a UFC fighter *New Japan tag team tournament final standings and results *Big awards being announced this week *Actress who played Hall of Fame pro wrestler on a Netflix series wins major award for her performance *Where did the original star ratings in Mexico rating matcheds come from *Hulk Hogan album being re-released *Notes on AEW Worlds End *Andrade makes claims about what happened with AEW and WWE *Advance ticket sales for all the AEW and WWE upcoming shows *Lots more on Trump UFC event at the White House *UFC schedule *More on the Ali Act and attempting to change and subvert it *Dana White talks Francis Ngannou now that he wants to return *The most interest in buying tickets to a pro wrestling or UFC show in history took place this past week *Lots more on the two lawsuits going against Vince McMahon and WWE *The WWE TV schedule for this coming week *Big PPV main event match that fell through from earlier this year
After revealing himself to be the mystery man on Raw, Austin Theory wrote on social media: “Mask Off.”
Continuing their feud, Drew McIntyre mocked Cody Rhodes’ emotional reaction after Cena’s final match, writing: “Is there a camera rolling? Yeah? Okay just stay on me here.”
Raquel Rodriguez had a huge knot on her forehead after Monday’s Raw, promising revenge on Nikki Bella in a promo.
Je’Von Evans posted a promo on social media talking about this past week but also setting his sights on Ricky Saints, who cost him the NXT Championship last Tuesday.
There will be a WWE ID Showcase event on January 10 in Longwood, Florida through the HOC promotion. The WWE Evolve, WWE ID Men’s title, and WWE ID Women’s title will be defended.
–We’ve got a giant new issue of the Observer out today covering the Cena and Santo retirements as well as all the big events from the past week. *John Cena and El Hijo del Santo’s retirement shows and how they are so different *A look back at both’s careers and places in history *Where Santo went wrong *Key people who saved John Cena’s career *Why he never turned heel years ago *Marketing of Cena as The GOAT *How Cena ranks with the biggest draws in wrestling history *Update on WBD’s potential sales to Netflix or Paramount, what the deals entail and how this all affects AEW *Dwayne Johnson and his Golden Globe nomination *Odds for upcoming pro wrestling bouts *1,000,000th fan attends CMLL pro wrestling at Arena Mexico alone. Why this has never happened before, and the absolutely staggering part of the story that nobody talks about *UFC 323 coverage of the last UFC show on PPV for at least seven years *A look at NXT Deadline *A look at ROH Final Battle * a look at TNA Final Resolution *A look at the career of Steve “Mr. Electricity” Regal, death of territories, the shocking win over the Road Warriors and holding world titles in the AWA and NWA in the 80s. *The most detailed look at the ratings for all the TV shows over this past week *A look at major promotions joining together for different shows in 2026 *A look at last week’s big shows at Arena Mexico, both a hell of a Friday and a big Tuesday with Bad Bunny under a Mistico mask in the front row *Key CMLL talent banged up *All Japan tag team tournament ends with a former rugby star from New Zealand and former member of the Harlem Globetrotters against each other. *NOAH’s big start of the year show *New wrestler starting at NOAH including the brother of a UFC fighter *New Japan tag team tournament final standings and results *Big awards being announced this week *Actress who played Hall of Fame pro wrestler on a Netflix series wins major award for her performance *Where did the original star ratings in Mexico rating matcheds come from *Hulk Hogan album being re-released *Notes on AEW Worlds End *Andrade makes claims about what happened with AEW and WWE *Advance ticket sales for all the AEW and WWE upcoming shows *Lots more on Trump UFC event at the White House *UFC schedule *More on the Ali Act and attempting to change and subvert it *Dana White talks Francis Ngannou now that he wants to return *The most interest in buying tickets to a pro wrestling or UFC show in history took place this past week *Lots more on the two lawsuits going against Vince McMahon and WWE *The WWE TV schedule for this coming week *Big PPV main event match that fell through from earlier this year
–Bryan and I will be up tonight with Wrestling Observer Radio. Besides covering Raw, we will talk about the 2025 Awards, Solomon Grundy, Rob Reiner, Cena, Santo, Tokyo Dome, AEW, WWE lawsuits, injuries and updates on WWE lawsuits.
–New Japan announced Hiroshi Tanahashi’s last three matches before the Tokyo Dome will be 12/19 in Gunma against Hiromu Takahashi, 12/21 in Utsunomiya against El Desperado and 12/22 at Korakuen Hall (his last Korakuen show) against Kosei Fujita.
–In a shock they announced WrestleKingdom will only have seven matches: *A trios gauntlet match with all mystery teams except champions Toru Yano & Yoh & Master Wato for the trios tiles *Saya Kamitani vs. Syuri for both the IWGP women’s title and New Japan Strong women’s title *Shingo Takagi & David Finlay & Gabe Kidd & Hiorumu Takahashi & Drilla Moloney vs Great O’Khan & Callum Newman & two mystery partners *El Desperado vs. Kosei Fujita vs. Taiji Ishimori & Sho with the winner facing Douki down the line for the IWGP jr. title *Evil vs. Aaron Wolf for the Never title *Konosuke Takeshita vs,. Yota Tsuji for both the IWGP and Global titles *Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement vs. Kazuchika Okada Smartly, they are going with the main event last. There has never been anything but a great WrestleKingdom show, but the reaction to this lineup is generally disappointing. The Yuto-Ice & Oskar IWGP tag title defense against tournament winners Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa will take place at New Year’s Dash on 1/5 in Tokyo.
–Raw and Smackdown are being taped tonight in Hershey, PA. Raw will be live from 8-10 p.m. Smackdown started taping at about 6:30 p.m. and they will take most of the show before Raw,and maybe, depending on time, some after Raw. But they will be taping all of Friday’s show tonight but some segments will likely not be shown to the live audience. Announced for Raw are Stephanie Vaquer vs. Raquel Rodriguez the women’s title, Maxxine Dupri vs. Ivy Nile for the IC title, New Day vs. Usos, likely a No. 1 contenders match for the tag team titles, and Rey Mysterio vs. Logan Paul. CM Punk returns for the show to build his match in three weeks against Bron Breakker for the world title. Little has been announced for Smackdown although they will push a collaboration with Drake’s OVO brand and probably have a tag team title match. About 8,000 tickets were out at last look so this should be sold out or close to it.
–We’re looking for reports from Hershey, PA and in particular the Smackdown tapings with results , finishes, angles and highligh ts to [email protected]
–AEW has 10,384 tickets out for Wednesday’s show in Manchester, UK. It will end up as one of the three most attended AEW television tapings this year, along with Arena Mexico and Brisbane, Australia. And with a good walk-up it could top Brisbane.
–Tokyo Sports will be announcing the Japanese awards for 2025 tonight our time. There is no clear-cut winner but for MVP the top candidates I see are Hirooki Goto, Konosuke Takeshita, Saya Kamitani (no woman has ever won previously) and Ozawa.
–CMLL sold out Puebla tonight for Mistico & Templario & Esfinge vs. Angel de Oro & Niebla Roja & Soberano Jr. That’s their third sellout in four days.
–On Friday’s Arena Mexico show, Neon will be replaced by Soberano Jr. to face Kevin Knight. I was told Neon, who crashed doing his speciality move on the 12/5 show, is okay but as a precautionary measure they are keeping him off for a little while.
–NXT tomorrow has Joe Hendry vs. Dion Lennox vs. Leon Slater vs. Myles Borne for the top contender spot for Oba Femi and a title shot on 1/6, and Blake Monroe vs. Thea Hail for the North American title.
–Geronimo dos Santos, a former MMA heavyweight who had faced Josh Barnett, Junior Dos Santos and Sergei Kharitonov during his career, died from drowning in a river in the Amazon in Brazil. His body was found by divers at the Amazonas Fire Department. He was trapped under rocks on the bottom of the river. He was 45 and had fought in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championships as recently as April. MMA Fighting first reported this.
–Sky News reported that Benjamin Webb, better known as Trent Seven, is trying to raise money to start a UK promotion for television, saying that there is a big TV fan base that could be served and that WWE & AEW underserve the market.
–Rikidozan died 62 years ago today after being stabbed in a night club one week earlier. If you are doing a list of the most important wrestlers in history, Rikidozan and Frank Gotch have to be two of the very tops. You can argue others like Hulk Hogan, Jim Londos, Ed Lewis, Santo and Inoki should be the highest tier. But I can’t think if anyone who could be ahead of Rikidozan other than Gotch.
Birthdays today include Elix Skipper turning 58, Kendall Windham turns 58, Rene Dupree turns 42 and Eric Young turns 46. Russ Haas died 24 years ago today at the age of 27. Ryan Gracie died 18 years ago today at 33. (thanks to Tony Richards)
–We’ve got a giant new issue of the Observer out today covering the Cena and Santo retirements as well as all the big events from the past week. *John Cena and El Hijo del Santo’s retirement shows and how they are so different *A look back at both’s careers and places in history *Where Santo went wrong *Key people who saved John Cena’s career *Why he never turned heel years ago *Marketing of Cena as The GOAT *How Cena ranks with the biggest draws in wrestling history *Update on WBD’s potential sales to Netflix or Paramount, what the deals entail and how this all affects AEW *Dwayne Johnson and his Golden Globe nomination *Odds for upcoming pro wrestling bouts *1,000,000th fan attends CMLL pro wrestling at Arena Mexico alone. Why this has never happened before, and the absolutely staggering part of the story that nobody talks about *UFC 323 coverage of the last UFC show on PPV for at least seven years *A look at NXT Deadline *A look at ROH Final Battle * a look at TNA Final Resolution *A look at the career of Steve “Mr. Electricity” Regal, death of territories, the shocking win over the Road Warriors and holding world titles in the AWA and NWA in the 80s. *The most detailed look at the ratings for all the TV shows over this past week *A look at major promotions joining together for different shows in 2026 *A look at last week’s big shows at Arena Mexico, both a hell of a Friday and a big Tuesday with Bad Bunny under a Mistico mask in the front row *Key CMLL talent banged up *All Japan tag team tournament ends with a former rugby star from New Zealand and former member of the Harlem Globetrotters against each other. *NOAH’s big start of the year show *New wrestler starting at NOAH including the brother of a UFC fighter *New Japan tag team tournament final standings and results *Big awards being announced this week *Actress who played Hall of Fame pro wrestler on a Netflix series wins major award for her performance *Where did the original star ratings in Mexico rating matcheds come from *Hulk Hogan album being re-released *Notes on AEW Worlds End *Andrade makes claims about what happened with AEW and WWE *Advance ticket sales for all the AEW and WWE upcoming shows *Lots more on Trump UFC event at the White House *UFC schedule *More on the Ali Act and attempting to change and subvert it *Dana White talks Francis Ngannou now that he wants to return *The most interest in buying tickets to a pro wrestling or UFC show in history took place this past week *Lots more on the two lawsuits going against Vince McMahon and WWE *The WWE TV schedule for this coming week *Big PPV main event match that fell through from earlier this year
— We have both of our weekend shows up on the site right now. We talked extensively about the John Cena retirement show as well as AEW Collision, Smackdown, Arena Mexico and more on last night’s show and did our week in review show where at the end we talked about the biggest real mystery in pro wrestling, the real life version who who got Vince McMahon.
— They did show McMahon on television in a brief clip in a Cena video and the crowd in Washington, DC cheered. No surprise.
— Regarding the finish of the match, we talked in detail about it last night. There was a lot of booing and “You f***ed up” chants and Paul Levesque after the match and in the post-show as well as a chant of “AEW” at one point. This is one of those things, ike the Cody Rhodes loss to Roman Reigns the first time, or the Steve Austin heel turn, where it’s better to evaluate in nine months based on where Gunther is. For the day it wasn’t what the fans would have wanted. It was what Cena and the company wanted because of their idea that it’s about making someone on the way out. This fan base is rarely negative about decisions, but they were last night.
I do think most will consider from a story standpoint that the Cena farewell overall was not well done because of the heel turn with no idea what to do next and the turn back having no storyline at all past we made a mistake and we have to undo it. Here, it wasn’t what the audience wanted but that doesn’t make it wrong. It doesn’t make it right. It would not be what I would have done in this specific situation but long-term we’ll see.
The Reigns-Rhodes thing happened when the audience was at its peak and right now big shows are very strong but there are the obvious signs of a slight cool off anyway and really if you take Cena out of the last month it would have been even worse. Cena is gone but now it’s coming up on the hottest time of the year with the build to the Rumble and Mania.
— Neither Vince McMahon nor Donald Trump was at the show. They wanted Trump. He attended the Army vs. Navy football game not far away and could have made it to both but his decision was not to come. Linda McMahon was at the event. Jesse Ventura was only put on the pre-show.
— El Hijo del Santo retired last night as well. Or at least that’s what he claimed. In the main event of Los Palacio de los Deportes, Santo & LA Park & Ultimo Dragon beat Dr. Wagner Jr. & El Hijo de Fishman & El Texano Jr. when Santo used the la caballo (the famous finisher of both himself, his father and Gori Guerrero, what’s now called the camel clutch) on Fishman. Earlier in the show his son, Santo Jr., beat Angel Blanco Jr with the stipulations that if Blanco won, El Hijo del Santo would have to unmask before the main event. Instead, Blanco Jr. got his head shaved.
— Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa beat Yota Tsuji & Gabe Kidd in the finals of the New Japan World Tag League tournament in Kumamoto, Japan in what I was told was an excellent match. Toru Yano & Yoh & Master Wato kept the Never six-man titles over Evil & Ren Narita & Sanada in two bouts. The first was a no contest and then they did a restart. The full Tokyo Dome is likely to be announced this week. There will be a United Empire vs. War Dogs match on the show with Henare returning. Most likely Yuto-Ice & Oskar will defend the IWGP tag titles against Sabre Jr. & Oiwa.
— Yesterday’s match in Cardiff was not the first IWGP heavyweight champion vs. CMLL heavyweight champion match. It was the second. The first was August 31, 2012 between Hioshi Tanahashi and El Terrible. They were both in the Universal tournament of champions at Arena Mexico and Terrible beat Tanahashi.
— Raw tomorrow night from Hershey, PA, will have CM Punk on the show after he’s finished shooting his Netflix movie, Logan Paul vs. Rey Mysterio, Maxxine Dupri vs. Ivy Nile for the IC title. They will be taping Smackdown for the 19th at about 6:30 p.m., go live with Raw, and whatever isn’t finished by 7:55 p.m. will be taped after Raw for Friday’s Smackdown. We’re going to be looking for reports tomorrow of the Smackdown stuff and anything not on the live show to [email protected].
— Mistico beat Soberano Jr. cleanly with La Mistica in what was very clearly the start of a story to retain the CMLL light heavyweight title before a sellout of 16,000 at Arema Mexico on Friday That’s five sellouts in seven weeks. Arena Coliseo also sold out last night, Mistico then flew to New York and sold out a show at Tulum Night Club in Brooklyn teaming with KeMonito to beat Difunto & KeMalito.
— For Google searches for last night, WWE had 200,000 for Gunther for No. 20, 20,000 for Oba Femi for No. 98, while UFC’s show yesterday did 85,000.
— The updated three hour block schedule for Wednesday’s AEW show in Manchester, UK:
Kenny Omega, Matt Jackson & Nick Jackson vs. Kazuchika Okada, Konosuke Takeshita & Hechicero with $1 million at stake
Dynamite Diamond battle royal
FTR vs. Juice Robinson & Austin Gunn for AEW tag titles
Pac vs. Kyle Fletcher in C2
Jon Moxley vs. Roderick Strong in C2
Orange Cassidy vs. Mascara Dorada in C2
AEW World title contract signing: Samoa Joe, Hangman Page and Swerve Strickland
Mercedes Mone, Athena, Marina Shafir & Megan Bayne vs. Willow Nightingale & Harley Cameron & Toni Storm & Mina Shirakawa
— Andrade beat Xavant Friday night to win the WWC Universal title in his first match since getting fired by WWE. WWE has okayed Andrade to work in WWC while maintaining he still had a one year long non-compete that has nine months left.
— Leila Gray of AEW won a Fitness contest last night for the WBBF. She competed with a torn ACL suffered in the TBS title loss to Mercedes Mone last Saturday. She is undergoing surgery and will be out of action for some time.
— The Blade (Jesse Guilmette) did his first match in almost two years in Buffalo, NY this past weekend. It was on a show put together by his longtime partner Andy “The Butcher” Williams.
— Templario & Titan vs. Volador Jr. & Barbaro Cavernario headlines Arena Mexico tonight.
— Steve Asplund, who debuted on last night’s UFC show, once weighed 525 pounds.
— Kent Herron, a reader of the Observer dating back to the 80s who used to regularly write letters in the 80s as Klon or Klon Herron, and attended many PPV get-togethers among readers in the 80s and 90s, passed away yesterday at the age of 70. I was very sorry to hear this. He was still regularly sending me messages.
His close friend Ron Lemieux wrote: “I lost a great friend today. Kent Herron, known to old school wrestling fans as Klon, passed away at the age of 70. As I said he wasn’t just a wrestling friend but a true friend. When we first moved to Florida he and his wife Elaine hosted us for Thanksgiving and he only knew me from corresponding with him from CT. He had a heart as big as he was. So many great memories attending shows throughout the state of Florida with our crew. Condolences to his wife Elaine, daughter Melissa and rest of their family. Rest easy big man! I’ll miss ya!”
— A correction from Friday. Lance Gibson Jr., who lost at last night’s UFC show, was not the first second generation wrestler. Ryan Couture, son of Randy, had several UFC fights years ago.
–We’ve got a giant new issue of the Observer out today covering the Cena and Santo retirements as well as all the big events from the past week. *John Cena and El Hijo del Santo’s retirement shows and how they are so different *A look back at both’s careers and places in history *Where Santo went wrong *Key people who saved John Cena’s career *Why he never turned heel years ago *Marketing of Cena as The GOAT *How Cena ranks with the biggest draws in wrestling history *Update on WBD’s potential sales to Netflix or Paramount, what the deals entail and how this all affects AEW *Dwayne Johnson and his Golden Globe nomination *Odds for upcoming pro wrestling bouts *1,000,000th fan attends CMLL pro wrestling at Arena Mexico alone. Why this has never happened before, and the absolutely staggering part of the story that nobody talks about *UFC 323 coverage of the last UFC show on PPV for at least seven years *A look at NXT Deadline *A look at ROH Final Battle * a look at TNA Final Resolution *A look at the career of Steve “Mr. Electricity” Regal, death of territories, the shocking win over the Road Warriors and holding world titles in the AWA and NWA in the 80s. *The most detailed look at the ratings for all the TV shows over this past week *A look at major promotions joining together for different shows in 2026 *A look at last week’s big shows at Arena Mexico, both a hell of a Friday and a big Tuesday with Bad Bunny under a Mistico mask in the front row *Key CMLL talent banged up *All Japan tag team tournament ends with a former rugby star from New Zealand and former member of the Harlem Globetrotters against each other. *NOAH’s big start of the year show *New wrestler starting at NOAH including the brother of a UFC fighter *New Japan tag team tournament final standings and results *Big awards being announced this week *Actress who played Hall of Fame pro wrestler on a Netflix series wins major award for her performance *Where did the original star ratings in Mexico rating matcheds come from *Hulk Hogan album being re-released *Notes on AEW Worlds End *Andrade makes claims about what happened with AEW and WWE *Advance ticket sales for all the AEW and WWE upcoming shows *Lots more on Trump UFC event at the White House *UFC schedule *More on the Ali Act and attempting to change and subvert it *Dana White talks Francis Ngannou now that he wants to return *The most interest in buying tickets to a pro wrestling or UFC show in history took place this past week *Lots more on the two lawsuits going against Vince McMahon and WWE *The WWE TV schedule for this coming week *Big PPV main event match that fell through from earlier this year
–Garrett and I just finished a show covering John Cena and El Hijo del Santo’s retirement getting into a of history of both, Vince McMahon vs Paul Levesque in charge, the true biggest and most important mystery in wrestling that we may never find out, the real story behind Brock Lesnar vs. Lennox Lewis more than 20 years ago, some ratings talk, the WBD sale to Netflix or Paramount and what is best for the company, and less important, ramifications for AEW and more. Bryan and I will be back tomorrow night talking about John Cena’s farewell, Mistico vs. Soberano Jr., IWGP world champion vs CMLL world champion in Cardiff, Wales, New Japan tag tournament finals and Santo retirement.
–Tomorrow’s WWE show in Washington, DC, will be sold out at just under 19,000 fans. This will break the record for the largest wrestling crowd ever in the city. It will also set the record for the largest gate in a 20,000 seat or less building in pro wrestling history. After internal discussion and a change in plans, John Cena’s match with Gunther will go on last. We had noted on Wednesday how the original plan made no sense and talked about it on today’s show as to why. It was Cena’s idea to go on first.
–AEW has topped 10,000 tickets for the Manchester, UK show on Wednesday. There was big movement the past few days. –Yota Tsuji & Gabe Kidd beat Oskar & Yuto-Ice in the other semifinal of the New Japan tag team tournament today. They face Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa in the finals on Sunday. That show actually will be live at midnight tomorrow Eastern and 9 p.m. Pacific from Kumamoto: Tsuji & Kidd vs. Sabre Jr. & Oiwa Yoh & Master Watio & Toru Yano defend the trios titles against Evil & Sanada & Ren Narita David Finlay & HIromu Takahashi vs. Callum Newman & Great O’Khan Hiroshi Tanhashi & Shota Umino & Yuya Uemura vs. Yuto-Ice & Oskar & Daiki Nagai Shingo Takagi & Drilla Moloney & Taiji Ishimori vs. Yujiro Takahashi & Chase Owens & Douki El Desperado & Shuji Ishikawa & Shoma Kato vs Sho & Don Fale & Yoshinobu Kabnemaru Hirooki Goto & Oleg Boltin & Yoshi-Hashi & Katsuya Murashima & Tatsuya Matsujoto vs Taichi & Satoshi Kojima & Lance Archer & Alex Zayne & Masatora Yasuda El Phantasmo does an open challenge for the World TV title –John Williams, the head of programming at ITV, sent a Tweet out about how AEW has had more than double digit growth on both shows this year. The actual growth from January 1 to this past week from 2024 is Dynamite up 54 percent for the year and Collision is up 60 percent. The key to this is the situation has remained the same there, unique in the U.S. whereas lot of the audience has gone to streaming.
–AEW Collision will be taped in Cardiff, Wales and air at 4:30 p.m. Eastern and 1:30 p.m. Pacific, due to sports on TNT as well as avoiding the WWE show head-to-head Mark Briscoe vs. Daniel Garcia for the TNT title Swerve Strickland vs. Josh Alexander – winner goes to the Worlds End main event multiple person match Kris Statlander & Jamie Hayter vs. Skye Blue & Julia Hart Kevin Knight vs. Mike Bailey in the Continental Classic IWGP champion Konosuke Takeshita vs CMLL champion Claudio Castagnoli in the Continental Classic At another point in history, the main event would be considered a major historical event. Based on what we’ve seen so far, Bailey vs. Knight could be the classic on the show.
–NXT on Tuesday did 647,000 viewers and an 0.09 in 18-49. The 18-49 number is up from the past few weeks. AEW Dynamite on Wednesday did 516,000 viewers and an 0.09. AEW number doesn’t include MAX of course. –One thing where the new ratings are killing pro wrestling is that AEW used to always beat the NHL on Wednesdays and often double it or more. Now, with the switch, the NHL beats AEW. Never happened before except in the playoffs. Neither has changed in the last ten weeks, just how they are viewed.
–Ricky Romero Jr., the oldest son of Ricky Romero and older brother of Jay Youngblood, Mark Youngblood and Cris Youngblood, passed away. He was 73. He didn’t wrestle long, mostly 1977-81, using the name Ricky Youngblood. He was probably best known in Oregon. He wrestled in California and of course, West Texas, where his father was the biggest area star not named Funk. (thanks to Matt Farmer)
–The last UFC show of the year, and the last show on ESPN, will be tomorrow. The card will air from 7 p.m.to 1 a.m. on ESPN 2 and ESPN+ Jamey-Lyn North (126) vs. Tereza Bleda (126) Allen Frye (242) vs. Guilherme Pat (238) Melissa Croden (136) vs. Luana Santos (136) Sean Sharaf (251) vs. Steven Asplund (261) Neil Magny (171) vs. Yaroslov Amasov (171) Joanderson Brito (145.5) vs. Isaac Thomson (146) Amanda Lemos (115.5) vs. Gillian Robertson (116) Bobby Green (158.5) vs. Lance Gibson Jr.. (158.5) Kennedy Nzechukwu (243) vs. Marcus Bucheca (251.5) Melquizasel Costa (145.5) vs. Morgan Charrierre (145.5) Cesar Almeida (186)n vs, Ezary Oleksiejczuk (185.5) Giga Chikadze (146) vs. Kevin Vallejos (145) Brandon Royval (126) vs. Manel Kape (126) Gibson Jr.’s is the first fighter in UFC history where his father was also a UFC fighter.
–Conor McGregor married longtime girlfriend Dee Devlin this past week in Vatican City. The two have been a couple for 17 years and have four children.
–The Mistico vs. Soberano Jr. match for the CMLL light heavyweight title headlines tonight’s show at Arena Mexico. The show also features the Gran Alternativa tournament, where a star teams with a lower card guy with the idea it gives the lower card guy exposure. The show has sold out which makes five sellouts in the last seven weeks I expect an unreal atmosphere as Soberano Jr. is clearly the second most over guy in the building, and I’m wondering if his going for the title will draw more women than usual, meaning he’ll get a lot of the cheers. It doesn’t matter if Mistico is booed as long as they sell out. But this feels like the biggest singles match the company has done since MJF vs. Mistico in September.
–Lots of talk of MJF being back imminently and being in a multi-person world title match at Worlds End.
–The Crash on 1/16 in Tijuana has announced Alberto El Patron and brother El Hijo de Dos Caras facing Karl Anderson & Luke Gallows in the main event, Baron Corbin (using that name) vs. DMT Azul and Zachary Wentz & Dezmond Xavier vs. Noisy Boy & Rey Horus.
–Liv Morgan, Tiffany Stratton, Randy Orton, Grayson Waller and Omos are in Saudi Arabia promoting the Royal Rumble today.
–Gary Michael Cappetta, the former WWF and WCW ring announcer, turns 73 today. Jason Knight, the formerly handsomest man on Earth, turned 62. Royce Gracie turns 59. Ultimo Dragon turns 59. The Butcher in AEW turns 48. Eddie Kingston turns 44. Flip Gordon turns 34. Other notable birthdays today are Jose Lothario (born 1934), Buford Pusser (1937) and Sabu (1936). Jimmy Rave passed away four years ago today at the age of 39.
–40 years ago today was the finals of both the All Japan and New Japan tag team tournaments,when they were among the biggest things of the year. The New Japan finals were to be Bruiser Brody & Jimmy Snuka vs. Antonio Inoki & Seiji Sakaguchi. On the prior show, a match with Brody vs. Sakaguchi (who was as big as Brody and a national champion in judo) got out of hand and got real. Brody got the best of it, but for a variety of reasons, even though he was making $17,000 per week and not getting paid until the end of the tour, he walked out on his $51,000 pay for the tournament and left. Snuka, out of loyalty to Brody, also left and walked out on lesser pay. With the top placing team out, third place Tatsumi Fujinami & Kengo Kimura faced Inoki & Sakaguchi. Inoki, feeling to quell the controversy of Brody & Sn uka no-showing the finals and to change the newspaper story that would have revolved around it, booked Fujinami to pin him, something unheard of and unforeseen and one of the biggest upset results of that era.
–The All Japan tournament that year was loaded, Jumbo Tsuruta & Genichiro Tenryu, Giant Baba & Dory Funk Jr., Ted DiBiase & Stan Hansen, Riki Choshu & Yoshiaki Yatsu, Harley Race & Jesse Barr, Riki Choshu & Yoshiaki Yatsu, Nick Bockwinkel & Curt Hennig, Dynamite Kid & Davey Boy Smith and Rusher Kimura & Ashura Hara. Hansen & DiBiase went to a 30:00 draw with Choshu & Yatsu, and based on previous point totals, Hansen & DiBiase won the tournament. It was a great match but without a pin. (thanks to Tony Richards)
–The PFL announced the fiset major MMA event in Spain on 3/20 in Madrid, headlined by PFL middleweight champion Costello van Steenis of Spain facing Fabian Edwards, the 2025 tournament winner
–TNA Bound for Glory 2025 is free today on TNA’s YouTube, FAST channels and TNA+
–Bo Nickal has pulled out of the 12/20 Real American Freestyle match against Yoel Romero. Nickal will be on the January show instead. Romero faces Pat Downey this coming weekend.
A look at the Netflix/WBD proposed deal, how it went down, what it entails, how this affects AEW, the AEW contract situation with WBD and what it entails and how long it is as well as fears in the entertainment industry if this goes through, as well as steps being taken by Paramount to get it blocked.
TNA signs a new TV deal with AMC, the early schedule, what is and isn’t true about the deal, as well as the power of AMC and how pro wrestling has affected and changed the ratings for all of its television partners with the most updated numbers, which also shows why it is still valuable programming.
A complete look at Survivor Series including how people viewed the show, changes that can be made to War Games to make it easier to watch, business notes on the show, overall interest level compared to recent PPV shows, where WWE goes from here, Netflix numbers outside the U.S. and more.
The history of Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada, the making of their final match, where Shinsuke Nakamura fit in as well as AEW, WWE and CMLL, business notes, history, historical significance and how the story has played out since the start of the year.
A look at this weekend’s shows and odds
Les Hudspith aka Ringo Rigby, former U.K. wrestler who led a very interesting life, between judo, being a main eventer quick in the U.K., the political situation in the U.K. that led to his leaving, coming to the dying California promotion and thriving Mexican scene and crazy street brawls.
The most detailed look at the television ratings from the past week, placings, comparisons and more.
Coverage of one of the best Arena Mexico shows of the year including Claudio Castagnoi’s title win
The next major CMLL show, plus lots of big shows around the country
AAA and WWE combine for a big show with two great bouts, and what this leads to
End of Stardom tag team tournament
End of Dragon Gate tournament
Update on All Japan and New Japan tournaments
Who has the most five-star matches in 2025
Real American Freestyle update and apparently business philosophy
Lots of AEW new shows
Detailed look at the Continental Classic including a decision to be made this week
Bryan Danielson talks injuries, if he can come back, Brie Bella coming back, retiring, traveling and more
Ticket sales for upcoming WWE & AEW shows over the net five weeks
Is AEW really closing the gap on WWE as Tony Khan says, a look at different metrics
Tom Aspinall update
What UFC should do and won’t to make the Amanda Nunes vs. Kayle Harrison fight better and less risky
The sad plight of Nick Diaz
Nick Khan and Laurence Epstein push their version of the Ali Act
Rumors about Ronda Rousey fighting
TKO stock value update
How much has Dwayne Johnson earned so far in his less than two years with WWE
CM Punk was featured on “What’s For Lunch?” with Chef Donny from Barstool Sports. On the show, Punk was asked how he feels about influencers like Logan Paul coming into WWE:
I mean, I think it’s a benefit. Like, I understand the criticisms – and I would probably be levying them heavy against him if I was CM Punk from like 10 years ago. But to see him take it seriously and want to do more – but the way the business is now, it’s almost just like, ‘Pump the brakes, you don’t need to do more.’ It’s fascinating because, like, everybody hates this dude. And I think that’s one of the more admirable things about him, is how much everybody hates him. Because in our business, that means money. That’s dollars.
Sami Zayn expressed how grateful he is that he got to face John Cena one last time back in September: “As the clock ticks towards this Saturday for John Cena’s final match, this is all becoming more and more emotional. I feel so incredibly lucky that we got to dance one last time.”
WWE Vault uploaded DVD extras from the “John Cena: My Life” DVD that came out in 2007.
WWE put together footage of the 100+ throwback sports jerseys Cena wore throughout his career.
The best decision I ever made was that match – because now when someone says I suck at wrestling, someone else says, ‘But did you see the Penta match?’ And I’m like, yeah, yeah, that one match in 2018. He literally wrestled himself. Watch it again, he literally wrestled himself. But I digress. He is amazing, and so am I.
Good morning Ric. Im not sweating this media thing… I know how they love to twist things up and take one sentence out of context in an interview to make a headline. I’ve been off of all social media, so I haven’t heard the podcast or seen much of anything… It’s just better while I’m grieving. But I know you loved Hulk and he loved you!
KUSHIDA is the latest name confirmed for MLW Battle Riot VIII, joining Alex Hammerstone, Karl Anderson, and Matthew Justice as the first four confirmed entrants.
The George Tragos/Lou Thesz Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame announced that Nic Nemeth (Dolph Ziggler) will be their 2026 inductee. Jazz & Rodney Mack will receive the Verne Gagne Trainer Award at the July 9-11 weekend in Waterloo, Iowa.
A look at the Netflix/WBD proposed deal, how it went down, what it entails, how this affects AEW, the AEW contract situation with WBD and what it entails and how long it is as well as fears in the entertainment industry if this goes through, as well as steps being taken by Paramount to get it blocked.
TNA signs a new TV deal with AMC, the early schedule, what is and isn’t true about the deal, as well as the power of AMC and how pro wrestling has affected and changed the ratings for all of its television partners with the most updated numbers, which also shows why it is still valuable programming.
A complete look at Survivor Series including how people viewed the show, changes that can be made to War Games to make it easier to watch, business notes on the show, overall interest level compared to recent PPV shows, where WWE goes from here, Netflix numbers outside the U.S. and more.
The history of Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada, the making of their final match, where Shinsuke Nakamura fit in as well as AEW, WWE and CMLL, business notes, history, historical significance and how the story has played out since the start of the year.
A look at this weekend’s shows and odds
Les Hudspith aka Ringo Rigby, former U.K. wrestler who led a very interesting life, between judo, being a main eventer quick in the U.K., the political situation in the U.K. that led to his leaving, coming to the dying California promotion and thriving Mexican scene and crazy street brawls.
The most detailed look at the television ratings from the past week, placings, comparisons and more.
Coverage of one of the best Arena Mexico shows of the year including Claudio Castagnoi’s title win
The next major CMLL show, plus lots of big shows around the country
AAA and WWE combine for a big show with two great bouts, and what this leads to
End of Stardom tag team tournament
End of Dragon Gate tournament
Update on All Japan and New Japan tournaments
Who has the most five-star matches in 2025
Real American Freestyle update and apparently business philosophy
Lots of AEW new shows
Detailed look at the Continental Classic including a decision to be made this week
Bryan Danielson talks injuries, if he can come back, Brie Bella coming back, retiring, traveling and more
Ticket sales for upcoming WWE & AEW shows over the net five weeks
Is AEW really closing the gap on WWE as Tony Khan says, a look at different metrics
Tom Aspinall update
What UFC should do and won’t to make the Amanda Nunes vs. Kayle Harrison fight better and less risky
The sad plight of Nick Diaz
Nick Khan and Laurence Epstein push their version of the Ali Act
Rumors about Ronda Rousey fighting
TKO stock value update
How much has Dwayne Johnson earned so far in his less than two years with WWE
After Cena acknowledged Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s Golden Globe nomination on Instagram, Johnson responded: “Love ya man and as you know, always grateful for all you’ve done for the business we love. You are truly the GOAT. Bring your moonshine, I’ll bring the tequila”
While discussing Chalamet’s SAG Award speech about pursuing greatness, Rhodes explained why he hates nostalgia:
I hate nostalgia, but I love my business. I already know what these guys all did for us. Thank you. They’ve set a table that I get to eat at. But man, they can’t keep coming back. We had to – just from a wrestling perspective – we’ve got to move forward. I don’t want them coming back. And I don’t mean any disrespect. I want them to come to a show and sit and watch a show. Watch a show. Watch what they’ve done for their business.
But the idea of you saying it – it was something that I found, it definitely didn’t rub me the wrong way. It was incredibly appealing. And I don’t think enough people are in the pursuit of greatness or [they] are afraid to say it. Mediocrity loves company.
Yes, people ask me that especially when I was doing my podcast ‘Chasing Glory.’ We’ll see. It’s a lot of work. It’s a lot to unpack. I know there is that in me for sure and it will come out in the right timing. Things are still unfolding. I do want to share that when it comes to my dad passing away on Christmas day, there are a lot of people that will lose a loved one over the holidays and it’s hard for them to celebrate the holidays. I implore those people to please do the opposite. I celebrate the holidays even bigger. I do it in my father’s name. If I don’t have anything planned for Halloween night, I’m decorating. That’s how much now the holidays mean to me because I feel his presence. I want to share that. It can be tough when you lose someone during the holidays, but celebrate it even bigger.
Other Wrestling
Athena’s ROH Women’s World Championship reign officially reached the three-year mark today. She’ll acknowledge the milestone with a championship celebration on Thursday’s ROH TV episode.
Matthew Justice has been confirmed for MLW Battle Riot VIII, joining Hammerstone and Karl Anderson as the first three announced entrants. The 40-person match is being held in Florida on January 29.
–The new issue of the Observer is out. The lead story on the WBD/Netflix/Paramount situation could end up being in hindsight the most important business story of this year as far as long-term ramifications to the scene. The second story on the TNA deal with AMC is also one of the major stories of the year. *A look at the Netflix/WBD proposed deal, how iit went down, what it entails, how this affects AEW, the AEW contract situation with WBD and what it entails and how long it is s well as fears in the entertainment industry if this goes through, as well as steps being taken by Paramount to get it blocked. *TNA signs a new TV deal with AMC, the early schedule, what is and isn’t true about the deal, as well as the power of AMC and how pro wrestling has affected and changed the ratings for all of its television partners with the most updated numbers, which also shows why it is still valuable programming. *A complete look at Survivor Series including how people viewed the show, changes that can be made to War Games to make it easier to watch, business notes on the show, overall interest level compared to recent PPV shows, where WWE goes from here, Netflix numbers outside the U.S. and more. *The history of Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada, the making of their final match, where Shinsuke Nakamura fit in as well as AEW, WWE and CMLL, business notes, history, historical significance and how the story has played out since the start of the year. *A look at this weekend’s shows and odds *Les Hudspith aka Ringo Rigby, former U.K. wrestler who led a very interesting life, between judo, being a main eventer quick in the U.K., the political situation in the U.K. that led to his leaving, coming to the dying California promotion and thriving Mexican scene and crazy street brawls. *The most detailed look at the television ratings from the past week, placings, comparisons and more. *Coverage of one of the best Arena Mexico shows of the year including Claudio Castagnoi’s title win *The next major CMLL show, plus lots of big shows around the country *AAA and WWE combine for a big show with two great bouts, and what this leads to *End of Stardom tag team tournament *End of Dragon Gate tournament *Update on All Japan and New Japan tournaments *Who has the most five-star matches in 2025 *Real American Freestyle update and apparently business philosophy *Lots of AEW new shows *Detailed look at the Continental Classic including a decision to be made this week’ *Bryan Danielson talks injuries, if he can come back, Brie Bella coming back, retiring, traveling and more *Ticket sales for upcoming WWE & AEW shows over the net five weeks *Is AEW really closing the gap on WWE as Tony Khan says, a look at different metrics *Tom Aspinall update *What UFC should do and won’t to make the Amanda Nunes vs. Kayle Harrisoni fight better and less risky *The sad plight of Nick Diaz *Nick Khan and Laurence Epstein push their version of the Ali Act *Rumors about Ronda Rousey fighting *TKO stock value update *How much has DwayneJohnson earned so far in his less than two years with WWE
–Bryan and I will be back tonight with Wrestling Observer Radio. We have a bunch of weekend shows on the site covering all the stuff that took place over the weekend.
–We’re looking for your thoughts on both NXT Deadline and ROH Final Battle, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match for each show to [email protected]
–There have been a ton of twist and turns in the WBD sale to Netflix. The key is Paramount making a far bigger money offer bid ($108.4 billion to $82.7 billion) and David Zaslav saying he will entertain that bid. I don’t know any of this will change pro wrestling short-term, but whoever gets in control of what obviously has the ability to change the entire history of -pro wrestling, in particular from an AEW standpoint.
–Mr. Electricity Steve Regal passed away on 7/20. He was a wrestler who was a star for Dick the Bruiser in Indiana and later in the AWA. He and Spike Huber were a tag team in Indiana as the top upcoming stars when Regal married co-owner Wilbur Snyder’s daughter and Huber married co-owner Dick the Bruiser’s daughter. But Regal was on the small side for that era, but he was a very good wrestler. When the Road Warriors were considered unbeatable, but they were leaving the AWA, Regal & Jimmy Garvin beat them for the AWA world tag team titles, which undoubtedly would have been the high point of his career. He won the AWA light heavyweight title from Buck Zum Hofe in 1984 and was a star in Oregon. He also held the NWA world junior heavyweight title in 1986 in a feud with Denny Brown. He was later world champion for Windy City Wrestling and worked as an enhancement wrestler for WWF.
–As noted earlier, Dwayne Johnson was nominated for a Golden Globe award for best lead actor in a dramatic movie this year for “Smashing Machine.” Emily Blount, who played Mark Kerr’s wife Dawn Staples, was nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a movie of any type. While the movie was a box office bomb, this nomination would help sooth the pain and increase hope for an Oscar nomination, which was his goal in doing this movie.
–Raw is in Kansas City tonight. AJ Styles & Dragon Lee defend the tag titles against the Viking Raiders, Rey Mysterio vs. Finn Balor and Roxanne Perez vs. Lyra Valkyria were announced. It’s the last Raw before the Cena finale so they may announce a new match. they had 7,600 tickets out for tonight.
–As noted earlier today, Leon Slater was pulled from his weekend European dates so the belief is Slater & Je’Von Evans will face a WWE tag team on Saturday’s Cena finale show. I know people in WWE who believe it but we did not have it confirmed.
–CM PUnk is taping a Netflix show this week so won’t be on Raw tonight.
–Becky Lynch is doing a boycott angle with the idea she won’t come back until they give her back the IC title.
–NXT on Tuesday did 532,000 viewers and an 0.08 in 18-49. We still don’t have the numbers for last Wednesday’s Dynamite show.
–There was an issue with Collision on Saturday. Originally the show was to air live on the West Coast on TNT. For reasons I’m not sure of, it did not, and aired in the normal 8-10 p.m. time slot. However, that meant DVRs picked up 5-7 p.m. which was other programming so if you didn’t have MAX and DVR’s it you would have missed the show. This was a TNT issue and somehow the ball was dropped.
–We have a new book out on amazon.com. It’s basically the 1985 Wrestling Observer collection covering every issue from that year. That includes the first WrestleMania, the first Saturday Night’s Main Event, Jim Crockett getting control of wrestling on TBS, AWA getting a deal with ESPN, the 20/20 special on wrestling and an overall very successful year for the industry. The book is available for $29.99 and we’ll have more on it in the new issue.
–The A block is now complete in the New Japan tag team tournament. Today’s results from Hiroshima were: Shuji Ishikawa & El Desperado (4-3) beat Yujiro Takahashi & Chase Owens (1-6) Yota Tsuji & Gabe Kidd (5-2) beat Taichi & Satoshi Kojima (1-6) Oleg Boltin & Toru Yano (4-3) beat Evil & Don Fale (4-3) Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi (5-2) beat Shingo Takagi & Drilla Moloney (4-3) Goto & Yoshi-Hash took first since they beat Tsuji & Kidd in the round-robin. They will face the second place in B block on Wednesday in Nagasaki. Tsuji & Kidd face the B block winners on Friday in Sendai.
B block will be decided tomorrow in Iizuka: Shota Umino & Yuya Uemura (4-2) vs. Yuto-Ice & Oskar (3-3) Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa (3-3) vs. Lance Archer & Alex Zayne (3-3) David Finlay & Hiromu Takahashi (2-4) vs. Great O’Khan & Callum Newman (4-2) Hiroshi Tanahashi & El Phantamso (2-4) vs. Ren Narita & Sanada (3-3)
–Neon missed his dive, perhaps the hottest move in pro wrestling, on Friday’s Arena Mexico show. He went out on a stretcher and is out of action at least for the next week at least.
–Ricochet will defend the AEW National title on Sunday in Cardiff, Wales, on the RevPro show against Nino Bryant. This is the biggest match of Bryant’s career.
–Toshiaki Kawada, one of the all-time greats and a rare double Hall of Famer (by himself and as a tag team with Akira Taue) turned 62 today. Many consider to this day his 1994 match with Mitsuharu Misawa as the greatest of all-time. Misawa vs. Kawada was one of the greatest feuds in history.
–Coastal Championship Wrestling will be taping television for the first time tonight and tomorrow night in Pompano Beach, FL. They say their show will air on major local stations in Florida and some Southeastern markets. Matt Riddle, Gangrel and Ben Bishop are listed as the top stars.
–Arena Mexico tomorrow night has Mistico & Titan vs. tag champs Angel de Oro & Niebla Roja in a non-title match and Mascara Dorada vs.Cavernario.
–PWInsider listed that the first TNA show on AMC will feature Frankie Kazarian vs. Mike Santana for the TNA title and the winner will then face a cash-in of Nic Nemeth.
–Mike Tyson claims he will be fighting Floyd Mayweather in March in Africa. He said it’s going to break all the box office records.
–Other birthdays today are Gama Singh (71), Ken “Slick”Johnson, the former WWF Dr. of Style (67), the legendary Chigusa Nagayo (61), Michael Cole (57), Enzo Amore (39) and Billie Starkz (21). Jack Lanza passed away four years ago today at the age of 86. (thanks to Tony Richards)
–MLW Fan Appreciation night on 1/29 in Kissimmee, FL has announced the annual Battle Riot show which is their version of the Royal Rumble. Alex Hammerstone was announced for the show.
–The new issue of the Observer is out. The lead story on the WBD/Netflix/Paramount situation could end up being in hindsight the most important business story of this year as far as long-term ramifications to the scene. The second story on the TNA deal with AMC is also one of the major stories of the year. *A look at the Netflix/WBD proposed deal, how iit went down, what it entails, how this affects AEW, the AEW contract situation with WBD and what it entails and how long it is s well as fears in the entertainment industry if this goes through, as well as steps being taken by Paramount to get it blocked. *TNA signs a new TV deal with AMC, the early schedule, what is and isn’t true about the deal, as well as the power of AMC and how pro wrestling has affected and changed the ratings for all of its television partners with the most updated numbers, which also shows why it is still valuable programming. *A complete look at Survivor Series including how people viewed the show, changes that can be made to War Games to make it easier to watch, business notes on the show, overall interest level compared to recent PPV shows, where WWE goes from here, Netflix numbers outside the U.S. and more. *The history of Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada, the making of their final match, where Shinsuke Nakamura fit in as well as AEW, WWE and CMLL, business notes, history, historical significance and how the story has played out since the start of the year. *A look at this weekend’s shows and odds *Les Hudspith aka Ringo Rigby, former U.K. wrestler who led a very interesting life, between judo, being a main eventer quick in the U.K., the political situation in the U.K. that led to his leaving, coming to the dying California promotion and thriving Mexican scene and crazy street brawls. *The most detailed look at the television ratings from the past week, placings, comparisons and more. *Coverage of one of the best Arena Mexico shows of the year including Claudio Castagnoi’s title win *The next major CMLL show, plus lots of big shows around the country *AAA and WWE combine for a big show with two great bouts, and what this leads to *End of Stardom tag team tournament *End of Dragon Gate tournament *Update on All Japan and New Japan tournaments *Who has the most five-star matches in 2025 *Real American Freestyle update and apparently business philosophy *Lots of AEW new shows *Detailed look at the Continental Classic including a decision to be made this week’ *Bryan Danielson talks injuries, if he can come back, Brie Bella coming back, retiring, traveling and more *Ticket sales for upcoming WWE & AEW shows over the net five weeks *Is AEW really closing the gap on WWE as Tony Khan says, a look at different metrics *Tom Aspinall update *What UFC should do and won’t to make the Amanda Nunes vs. Kayle Harrisoni fight better and less risky *The sad plight of Nick Diaz *Nick Khan and Laurence Epstein push their version of the Ali Act *Rumors about Ronda Rousey fighting *TKO stock value update *How much has DwayneJohnson earned so far in his less than two years with WWE
— Both of our weekend shows are up on the site today. Our Friday show with Garrett Gonzales talked about the news of the week, heavily on the WBD/Netflix story and how it affects AEW, John Cena, the weekend and all sorts of other topics. Last night we talked more on the lead story with more details on how it affects AEW and what are the next things to watch out for, Paul Fontaine talked UFC 323 with us which had two title change and lots of big fights underneath, we talked some other matches that were among the best of the week, as well NXT Deadline, Collision, ROH Final Battle and Arena Mexico.
— Regarding the WBD/Netflix story that will continue, probably the best on how it currently looks in relation to AEW is on our show from last night. Netflix sent a memo to all subscribers about the proposed sale and said that Netflix and HBO Max will be kept separate. Of course they have to say that now, and that doesn’t mean a few years from now that will be the case. But that would be very good news for AEW in theory. There are so many different ways this can go as we talked about last night.
— Dana White signed a new five-year deal to remain President of UFC.
— Arena Mexico became the first arena that as best we can tell in history has ever sold 1 million tickets in a calendar year. CMLL presented a championship belt to the fan who had purchased ticket No. 1 million at Friday night’s show. There have been reports that El Toreo in Naucalpan during the heyday of the UWA had done 1 million in a calendar year, but I think that’s a little exaggerated. This 1 million is paid, not total, and also only includes CMLL regular shows, not sponsored shows, not including special sponsor shows, the Pokemon show, nor the AEW show. Including those shows, by the end of the year it should top 1.1 million. There is no building in the U.S., Europe, Japan or anywhere that would come anywhere close to that. I don’t even know if outside of El Toreo and Arena Mexico that any other place ever did half that. The Mid South Coliseum in Memphis in its best year did like 375,000. What’s even more remarkable is that a solid percentage of that number would be Americans. I think you’d have to go back at least 40 years to find an arena in the U.S. that drew as many Americans in its best year as Arena Mexico did this year. To me, while the latter is not a shock since we talked about this in 2024 a few times because it was also a good year for tourist sales, it’s still mind-boggling when you think about it.
— Alexandre Pantoja dropped the flyweight title to Joshua Van in seconds, post his arm when Van took him down and it appeared his arm bent badly at the elbow joint. They had to stop the fight, which made Van the youngest world champion in UFC history. Megan Olivi after the show on the broadcast said that she had spoken to Dr. Jeff Davidson and said that Pantoja had a shoulder dislocation, but then the shoulder popped into place on its own. On Monday they will go for additional imaging to see the extent of the other or if there is another damage and diagnose more from there. Joe Rogan then said that this doesn’t make sense because you could see the elbow pop out of the joint.
— We’re looking for your thoughts on both NXT Deadline and ROH Final Battle, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected]
— Some weekend match recommendations as this was a big weekend for good matches. Yesterday’s NXT show to me was the best major show they’ve done in a while, with both the men’s and women’s Iron Survivor matches being excellent. ROH Final Battle you should check out the Bandido vs. Mortos vs. Komander vs. Blake Christian vs. Sammy Guevara vs. Hechidero, Athena vs. Persephone, Shane Taylor Promotions vs. Sky Flight and if you are into technical wrestling Nigel McGuinness vs Lee Moriarty to some will be one of the more fun matches in a long time. Both shows to me were very good. The Continental Classic matches last night on Collision were great, particularly Jon Moxley vs Konosuke Takeshita but really all three. The UFC main event, where Petr Yan won the bantamweight title over Merab Dvalishvili as well as Brandon Talbott vs. Henry Cejudo were great fights. We were also told there were two excellent quick bouts, Ob Aslan vs. Iwo Baraniewski and Chris Duncan vs. Terrence McKinney.
–The Arena Mexico Friday main event was excellent as well. It was Misitco & Mascara Dorada losing to Soberano Jr. & & Difunto when Soberano Jr. pinned both Dorada after a nasty power bomb and Mistico after a piledriver-like move. The power bomb looked dangerous and Dorada went out on a stretcher. Dorada then flew to Columbus, OH for his match with Claudio Castagnoli which saw the Historic welterweight champion pin the CMLL world heavyweight champion. After the main event at Arena Mexico, Soberano Jr. issued a challenge to Mistico for the CMLL world light heavyweight title, and that will be the main event on this coming Friday’s show. Also on Friday will be the Gran Alternativa tournament, with the first and second round on this week with the two final teams facing off on 12/19.
Teams are:
Volador Jr. & Elemental
Euforia & Gallero
Angel de Oro & Yutani
Averno & Barboza
Atlantis Jr. & Xelhua
Titan & Explosivo
Templario & El Hijo del Pantera
Neon & Futuro
The idea is the second name listed, if their team wins, that person moves from underneath level to semi-main or main event level. Yutani sold out Puebla against Mistico already. Barboza is already a star, Xelhua is a favorite and Futuro was Neon’s regular tag team partner before Neon got elevated.
— The news from the weekend from those in WWE is that Penta is 50/50 regarding whether he’ll be able to wrestle on 12/20 in Guadalajara for the Penta & Fenix vs. Dominik Mysterio & Grande Americano main event. He suffered a shoulder injury in his Raw match with Solo Sikoa.
— You’ve probably heard about this but Bayley did a weekend seminar and camp for top women independent wrestlers over the last few days in Orlando. She flew everyone in, took care of lodging and set up a camp at no cost to the women. Helping her with coaching included Charlotte Flair, Natalaya, TJ Wilson, John Cena, Bianca Belair, Ivy Nile, Lyra Valkyria, Rhea Ripley, Roxanne Perez, Maxxine Dupri and others. Bayley rushed to TV on Friday and flew right back. Cena spent hours there talking and giving advice to everyone individually. This is really something special and you have to give Bayley all the credit in the world for putting it together, and for all the other wrestlers who participated.
— Regarding Google searches, nothing from NXT Deadline nor ROH Death Before Dishonor cracked the top 600. Nor anything from WWE or AEW. UFC last night did 870,000 which is not a giant number but definitely a good number. Searches for the show were No. 6 among all topics over the weekend.
— As far as the judging went, in the main event, Judge Michael Bell only gave Dvalishvili the first round for a 49-46 score. Judge Derek Cleary gave Yan rounds three through five and a 48-47 score. Judge Eric Colon gave Dvalishvili only the first round for 49-46. I only had round two for Dvalishvili at 49-46. Both Ryan Frederick and Paul Fontaine from our site had a clean 50-45 sweep for Yan. Of reporters’ scores we’ve seen, they were 65 percent 50-45 and 35 percent 49-46. Nobody but Cleary gave Dvalishvili two rounds.
— In the Jan Blachowicz vs. Bogdan Guskov draw, Junichiro Kamijo had it even at 28-28 with Blachowicz winning one and three and Gukov getting a 10-8 round two. Chris Lee had it 29-28 with the same winners but not a 10-8 second. Judge Ron McCarthy gave Guskov a 10-8 round two for a 28-28 so it was a majority draw Among reporters through MMA Decisions, 57 percent went for Blachowicz and 43 percent had it as a draw.
— The Countdown to Worlds End show airs on the 17th. As of right now nothing has been announced for the show past the semifinals and finals of the Continental Classic. What that means is aside from the tournament, the rest of the show’s key bouts should be announced by a week from Wednesday. I strongly suspect Samoa Joe vs. Swerve Strickland as the main event. They gave the impression last night that Strickland will face Josh Alexander on 12/13 in Cardiff for the shot at Joe.
— The final episode of RJ City’s Hey EW show aired this weekend. He did a roast of the company, a parody of scenes in Beyond the Mat and WWE Unreal, spoofing Paul Levesque, a Renee Paquette run-in that leaves him laying and then Tony Khan shows up and orders everyone to get back to work. Mercedes Mone, who people had continued to request as a guest but never did the show, then showed up, saw that nobody was there, and left. (thanks to Stephen Lyon).
— The 12/11 El Hijo del Santo farewell show in Guadalajara was canceled due to poor ticket sales. His last match is 12/13 in Mexico City and they will have to paper like crazy to avoid it looking bad. But overall this farewell tour has been a disaster.
— The All Japan tag team tournament finals are Wednesday at Korakuen Hall with Ren Ayabe & Talos vs. tag champs Xyon & Odyssey Jones, who went 5-0 in the tournament.
— New Japan’s next to last night of B block took place in Kihoku today:
Great O’Khan & Callum Newman (4-2) beat Hiroshi Tanahashi & El Phantasmo (2-4)
Lance Archer & Alex Zayne (3-3) beat Yuto-Ice & Oskar (3-3)
Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa (3-3) beat David Finlay & Hiromu Takahashi (2-4)
Monday is the A block last day, Tuesday is the B block last day and the playoffs are Wednesday and Friday with the finals Sunday.
Tomorrow:
Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi vs. Shingo Takagi & Drilla Moloney
Taichi & Satoshi Kojima vs. Yota Tsuji & Gabe Kidd
Shuji Ishikawa & El Desperado vs. Yujiro Takahashi & Chase Owens
Evil & Don Fale vs. Oleg Boltin & Toru Yano
— NXT on Tuesday has Shiloh Hill’s first NXT TV match, Hank Walker & Tank Ledger back from Japan, Blake Monroe in an open challenge for the North American title and Kelani Jordan vs. Jordynne Grace.
— We’re looking for reports on the TNA TV tapings from yesterday and today in El Paso.
— Kenoh beat Kaito Kiyomiya in a 60:00 Iron Man match on today’s NOAH show at Korakuen Hall. Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows attacked Kiyomiya to set up them facing Kiyomiya & Jack Morris on 1/1.
— The 12/15 Raw show in Hershey, PA was moved to a 6 p.m. Eastern start time. They will be airing Raw but also taking an episode of Smackdown that night. In Grand Rapids, MI that Friday they will be doing Smackdown plus an episode of Raw.
— Curtis Highes turned 61 today, Tammy Sytch turned 53, Wolfie D turned 52, Jon Moxley turned 40 and ACH turned 38. Rick Rude would have been 67 today. The notorious Ian Croitoru/Johnny K-9/Bruiser Bedlam would have been 62. The famed McGuire Twins who are both over 700 pounds would have been 79. Joe Blanchard would have been 97, the father of Tully and grandfather of Tessa who was both a wrestler and the promoter in San Antonio and Corpus Christi for many years. Haystacks Calhoun, who was among the most mainstream famous wrestlers of the 60s, passed away on this day 36 years ago at the age of 55. (thanks to Tony Richards)
— Michelle McCool said he has one last run in her.
— Kirk White’s Big Time Wrestling from Friday night:
Beatrice Domino b Jheri Giggalow
Jian Hewell b Vaughn Vertigo
Los Suavecitos b Jordan Cruz & Chris Nasty
Vary Morales won three-way over Marcus Lewis and Alpha Zo
Aaron Solo b Shane Haste
VertVixen won three-way over Harley Cameron and Angelica Risk
Starboy Charlie won a three-way over Alan Angels and Toa Liona to get a main event match with QT Marshall
Marshall b Charlie
Next show is the Kirk White Memorial Battle Royal for the Roy Shire trophy on 1/23 with Ricochet and The Gates of Agony. (thanks to Jim Davis)
–The new issue of the Observer is out. The lead story on the WBD/Netflix/Paramount situation could end up being in hindsight the most important business story of this year as far as long-term ramifications to the scene. The second story on the TNA deal with AMC is also one of the major stories of the year. *A look at the Netflix/WBD proposed deal, how iit went down, what it entails, how this affects AEW, the AEW contract situation with WBD and what it entails and how long it is s well as fears in the entertainment industry if this goes through, as well as steps being taken by Paramount to get it blocked. *TNA signs a new TV deal with AMC, the early schedule, what is and isn’t true about the deal, as well as the power of AMC and how pro wrestling has affected and changed the ratings for all of its television partners with the most updated numbers, which also shows why it is still valuable programming. *A complete look at Survivor Series including how people viewed the show, changes that can be made to War Games to make it easier to watch, business notes on the show, overall interest level compared to recent PPV shows, where WWE goes from here, Netflix numbers outside the U.S. and more. *The history of Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada, the making of their final match, where Shinsuke Nakamura fit in as well as AEW, WWE and CMLL, business notes, history, historical significance and how the story has played out since the start of the year. *A look at this weekend’s shows and odds *Les Hudspith aka Ringo Rigby, former U.K. wrestler who led a very interesting life, between judo, being a main eventer quick in the U.K., the political situation in the U.K. that led to his leaving, coming to the dying California promotion and thriving Mexican scene and crazy street brawls. *The most detailed look at the television ratings from the past week, placings, comparisons and more. *Coverage of one of the best Arena Mexico shows of the year including Claudio Castagnoi’s title win *The next major CMLL show, plus lots of big shows around the country *AAA and WWE combine for a big show with two great bouts, and what this leads to *End of Stardom tag team tournament *End of Dragon Gate tournament *Update on All Japan and New Japan tournaments *Who has the most five-star matches in 2025 *Real American Freestyle update and apparently business philosophy *Lots of AEW new shows *Detailed look at the Continental Classic including a decision to be made this week’ *Bryan Danielson talks injuries, if he can come back, Brie Bella coming back, retiring, traveling and more *Ticket sales for upcoming WWE & AEW shows over the net five weeks *Is AEW really closing the gap on WWE as Tony Khan says, a look at different metrics *Tom Aspinall update *What UFC should do and won’t to make the Amanda Nunes vs. Kayle Harrisoni fight better and less risky *The sad plight of Nick Diaz *Nick Khan and Laurence Epstein push their version of the Ali Act *Rumors about Ronda Rousey fighting *TKO stock value update *How much has DwayneJohnson earned so far in his less than two years with WWE
–Garrett Gonzales and I will be back today with a show covering the WBD/Netflix situation, the latest news from the new Observer out today, your questions for the show which you can send to [email protected]. We will also be doing another show on Saturday night because of the plethora of significant shows over the next two days.
–A few more details regarding the WBD sale situation. Paramount is still attempting to get control of WBD through arguing that David Zaslav made a deal to benefit him but their offer is better, and are now going to the shareholders. Their argument is their deal will be able to get through antitrust better. They also argue that their $30 per share all cash offer is higher than what Network is offering and how they were the only suitors who wanted the cable business as well. It has been noted that Zaslav standish to make $660 million out of the Netflix deal. It also officially came out that the Netflix bid includes a $5.8 b8llio, not the $5.0 billion listed in the current issue, fee if the deal doesn’t get regulatory approval. Paramount had also offered a $5.0 billion fee if their proposed deal didn’t get regulatory approval.
–This is a huge weekend of events. We will be doing polls on just two of them, the ROH show tonight and the NXT show tomorrow night. So you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match for each show t [email protected]
–ROH has a pre-show on its streaming service starting at 7 p.m.Eastern with the main show at 8 p.m., from Columbus, OH
Bandido vs. Sammy Guevera vs. Beast Mortos vs. Komander vs.Hechicero vs. Blake Christian Survival of the Fittest for the ROH title Athena vs. Persephone for the ROH women’s title Mercedes Mone vs. Red Velvet for the ROH women’s TV title Guevara & Mortos vs. Adam Priest & Tommy Billington for the vacant ROH tag titles Shane Taylor & The Infantry vs. Scorpio Sky & Dante & Darius Martin for the ROH trios titles Ricochet vs. Dalton Castle for the National title Deonna Purrazzo vs. Billie Starkz to create the first Women’s Pure title Nigel McGuinness vs. Lee Moriarty in a 30:00 Iron Man match Wheeler Yuta & Daniel Garcia vs. Grizzled Young Veterans (pre-show match) Lee Johnson vs. Ace Austin (pre-show match) This is really quite the lineup when you look at it.
–TNA Final Resolution tonight at 9 p.m. Eastern from El Paso,TX Frankie Kazarian vs. JDC for the TNA title
Leon Slater vs. AJ Francis for the X title
Lei Ying Lee vs. Xia Brookside for the Knockouts title
Steve Maclin vs. Stacks Lorenzo for the International title
Matt & Jeff Hardy vs. Tyson DuPont & Tyriek Igwe for the TNA tag titles
The Iinspiration vs. Tessa Blanchard & Victoria Crawford for the Knockouts tag team titles
Mike Santana vs. Charlie Dempsey
Matt Cardona vs. Mance Warner in a street fight
Mustafa Ali & Jason Hotch & John Skyler & Agent Zero vs. Zachary Wentz & Dezmond Xavier & Myron Reed & Trey Miguel–Smackdown tonight is from Austin, TX. It features Gunthder vs. LA Knight in the finals of the Last Time is Now tournament, Jade Cargill vs. Alba Fyre, Alexa Bliss vs. Kairi Sane, Ilja Dragunov’s U.S. title open challenge plus Cody Rhodes and Solo Sikoa interviews. Randy Orton is being advertised locally but there is no indication he’s at the show. Oba Femi, Sol Ruca and Trick Williams are all there. They had just over 7,100 tickets out as of earlier today.
–Arena Mexico has a regular show tonight with Mistico & Mascara Dorada vs. Soberano Jr. & Difunto, Titan & Templario & Neon vs Averno & Cavernario & Volador Jr. and Dragon Rojo Jr. & Dragon Legendario & Dragon de Fuego vs. Cobarde & Guerrero Maya Jr. & Magnus as the top matches. The top two bouts figure to be great.
–NXT Deadline is 7 p.m. tomorrow night from San Antonio, TX Oba Femi vs. Ricky Saints for the NXT title – this match will open the show Men’s Iron Survivor match with Joe Hendry, Je’Von Evans, Leon Slater, Myles Borne and Dion Lennox Women’s Iron Survivor match with Sol Ruca, Kendal Grey, Kelani Jordan, JordynneGrace and Lola Vice Ethan Page vs. Mr. Iguana for the North American title Izzi Dame vs. Tatum Paxley
–The last UFC PPV show for at least seven years is tomorrow night from Las Vegas ESPN+ at 6 p.m. Eastern Muhammed Naimov (146) vs. Mairon Santos (147.5) – Santos missed weight by 1.5 pounds and will forfeit 20 percent of her purse Mansur Abdul-Malik (185.5) vs. Antonio Trocoli (186) Iwo Baraniewski (206) vs. Ibo Asian (205.5) Edson Barboza (155.5) vs. Jalin Turner (155) Marvin Vettori (186) vs. Brunno Ferreira (189) – Ferriera missed weight by 2.0 pounds and was fined 20 percent of his purse) ESPN 2 at 8 p.m. Eastern Nazim Sadykhov (155.5) vs. Fares Ziam (156) Maycee Barber (125.5) vs. Karine Silva (125.5) Terrance McKinney (156) vs. Chris Duncan (156) PPV at 10 p.m. on ESPN+ Jan Blachowicz (206) vs. Bogdan Guskov (206) Henry Cejudo (136) vs. Payton Talbott (136) Brandon Moreno (125) vs. Tatsuro Taira (126) Alexandre Pantoja (125) vs. Joshua Van (124.5) for the flyweight title Merab Dvalishvili (135) vs. Petr Yan (135) for the bantamweight title +
–New Japan has A block matches in the tag team tournament today in Osaka: Chase Owens & Yujiro Takahashi (1-5) beat Taichi & Satoshi Kojima (1-5) Evil & Don Fale (4-2) beat Shuji Ishikawa & El Desperado (3-3) Shingo Takagi & Drilla Moloney (4-2) beat Oleg Boltin & Toru Yano (3-3) Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hsnhi (4-2) beat Gabe Kidd & Yota Tsuji (4-2) The tournament continues on Sunday with B block matches. There is one A block show leftr on Monday in Hiroshima, the B block last day is on Tuesday in Iizuka and the A block winner faces the B block winner on Wednesday in Nagasaki. –A lawsuit filed by a Miami woman for sexual assault against Conor McGregor wsa dropped on Tuesday. The allegation was that McGregor secxually assaulted her in the bathroom after a 2023 Miami Heat playoff final game. No charges were ever filed due to lack of evidence. . –The UFC announced a 3/21 show at the O2 Arena in London
–Former WWE President George Barrios is writing a book about his time in wrestling called “Sometimes Wrong but Never in Doubt: How a Cuban Kid from Queens Transformed WWE.” The book claims Barrios took WWE from an $800 million company to a $9.3 billion company. –Thursday’s Washington Capitals vs. Carolina Hurricane NBA game will be John Cena Night, to promote Cena’s final match on Saturday in the same Capital One Arena. Those getting tickets through Facebook will get a free Cena T-shirt.
–A Willow Nightingale vs. Mara Sade (Jakara Jackson) match has been announced for the GCW/JCW joint show on 2/1 at the Melrose Ballroom in New York. The show also features the return of Jonathan Gresham, Mad Dog Connelly vs. Paul Walter Hauser, Matt CArdona, Mance Warne, Man Like DeRiess and Joey Janela.
–Kris Statlander defends her Eve International title against Charlie, the former Dakota Kai, on the 3/8 International Womens’ Day WrestleQueendom show put on by Eve in London. They are attempting to draw the largest crowd for an all-women’s pro wrestling show ever in the U.k.
–Tom Billington, the original Dynamite Kid, was both born on this day in 1958 and died on this day in 2018 on his 60th birthday. Skip Young aka Sweet Brown Sugar passed away at the age of 59 on this day in 2010. Tom Drake, a wrestler who later served as the speaker of the house in Alabama, was born on this day in 1930. Larry Zbyszko celebrates his 74th birthday today (thanks to Tom Richards)
–A correction from the story in today’s Observer on Ringo Rigby. The Killer Kim who wrestled in 1982 in California was not Kim Sung Ho, as we reported. Kim Sung Ho did work as Killer Kim in Oregon, but he was retired by 1982. Killer Kim was actually the son of South Korea’s sports icon, Kim Ill, who was the country’s sports hero as a pro wrestler in the 70s (the highest rated pro wrestling television match of all-time was a 1977 match on Korean television from Seoul with Ill & Tiger Toguchi (Kim Duk) vs. Giant Baba & Jumbo Tsuruta for the International tag team championship, which did an 88.0 rating. Kim Il, aka Kintaro Oki, was also a major star around the world.
