Tag: Daily updates

Daily Update: Big E, LA Knight, Beyond Wrestling

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • The most detailed look at the sale of New Japan, what happened, the glory days that Bushiroad built and why it came down and what led to the sale.
  • Business realities of Japanese wrestling today.
  • The reason for the surprising low sale price.
  • The shareholders lawsuit against Vince McMahon and the WWE Board of Directors is getting near. Judge Travis Laster orders sanctions against Nick Khan and Vince McMahon for destruction of evidence. Laster makes a ruling, and we look at it in detail, on how this changes the trial and the exact details of the destruction of evidence including when McMahon and company knew not to do it and ignored their own lawyers. Also we look at problems with the case.
  • AEW Double of Nothing coverage. Business notes, historical biggest gates in U.S. pro wrestling, three-time world champions by 30, how the PPV did, poll results, Mick Foley and more.
  • Did Ronda Rousey set a viewing audience record for MMA, plus coverage of Rousey vs. Carano, how everything goes forward, can things be sustained, can she fight, will she fight, her thoughts on AEW.
  • Scott Coker returns to MMA with a new promotion.
  • Marcel Barthel (Ludwig Kaiser) arrested.
  • A look at the career of Jerry Grey.
  • The most detailed look at the ratings for all the TV shows over the past two weeks.
  • Mistico injury update.
  • How CMLL is doing this year compared to last year.
  • Natalia Jiminez and J Balvin appear and are part of CMLL shows.
  • Wrestlers vs. media soccer game.
  • Grande vs. Grande match looked at.
  • Major return to Stardom.
  • Champion Carnival finals.
  • NOAH tag team tournament.
  • New Japan Best of the Super Juniors tournament.
  • Hana Kimura tribute show.
  • Phil Hickerson passes away.
  • WCW announcer is the final anchor as CBS News Radio closes its doors after 99 years.
  • Death of the Laguna version of Piloto Suicida.
  • Junior Hodge Trophy winner.
  • Advance ticket sales for all major events in AEW, WWE, TNA and other indies.
  • Pro wrestler/fighter on the Rousey-Carano undercard.
  • WWE stars purchase promotion.
  • Tony Khan media appearances.
  • More thoughts on how Paramount/Skydance can affect AEW.
  • What can affect the time slot of Collision in 2027.
  • What’s next for AEW.
  • AEW star to return in the fall.
  • Latest Zuffa myths regarding Trump and UFC.
  • UFC fighter pay comes up again

This Week’s Back Issue

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Thursday Update

Big E WWE

WWE

  • Big E will be delivering a TEDx Talk in Davenport, Iowa on August 12:
    • Excited to announce that I’ll be delivering a @tedx_official talk in Davenport, IA, on August 12 at @thelastpichouse!
    • ‘How I Got Over’
    • Sharing my struggles with major depressive disorder and psychosis, and my eventual healing through medication, hospitalization, ECTs, talk therapy, and mindfulness/meditation.
  • On Insight with Chris Van Vliet, LA Knight shared that – during his brief time as Max Dupri – Vince McMahon would always tell him that he needed to speak softer:
    • Vince told me before, ‘You gotta talk soft, I don’t want you to say or do any of the things that you used to do, none of that, whatever.’ If I’m honest though, he wasn’t familiar with any of it. He didn’t know LA Knight. I think he was told a little bit…
    • That first day of introducing the Models and we’re doing the little rehearsal thing talk-through. And he comes down and he’s like, ‘I need you to talk softer.’ And I’m like, okay, well, I’m thinking like, you had me talking soft in the backstage, but like now I’m doing a presentation. I need to be a little bigger, right? To present to the people. But it’s his show. Sure. And he goes, ‘Just read me a line from there as softly as you can.’ He’s like, ‘I don’t think you can be effeminate, but try and be effeminate without being effeminate.’ What?
  • Knight said the initial impression he was given for the Dupri character was that he would take a similar trajectory to Roddy Piper in WWE, starting out as a manager before wrestling full time:
    • The bill of goods that was sold to me there was that I was going to be kind of a Roddy Piper. In the sense of when Roddy first came in, he was like a manager, a mouthpiece that then sometimes wrestled, and then eventually just became a full-time wrestler. That was kind of how it was painted to me.
    • There were some other details in there that made me think like, ‘Okay, this could be okay.’ Then it started going in directions where I was like, this is going to be awful. This is going to be pigeon-holed. We’re stuck. We’re never going to get above a certain trajectory.
  • Becky Lynch discussed her friendship with Je’Von Evans:
    • We’ve got Je’Von Evans who’s 21. He’s younger than my wrestling career. He calls me ‘mom,’ because I’m old enough to be his mom. But then I’m so proud of him. I’m like, ‘Oh son, look at you, look at you out there main eventing Elimination Chamber.’ And I just think he’s the coolest. I think he’s so awesome. Like the confidence that he has and the ability that he has and his promo, everything. I’m like, this kid’s a star.
  • Nattie praised Undertaker and Jeremy Borash for the work they’re doing behind the scenes in Lucha Libre AAA:
    • I will say that Taker and Jeremy Borash – Jeremy Borash, he works alongside Taker at AAA. A lot of people know JB as being somebody that puts together the most amazing video packages in WWE. He puts together, if you see some of the best video packages in the company, usually JB is behind a lot of them.
    • And so to see what Taker, who by the way – Taker is not known for being a luchador. When you see what Undertaker has built in just the last six months of booking at AAA alongside Jeremy Borash and, of course, the people that had been in place in Triple A that work with them. Taker is very, very collaborative.
    • I’m just blown away. Like, I think that Taker has really stepped into this new role and he is proving why his influence past the ring may be one of his greatest accomplishments.
  • WWE Hall of Famer Typhoon (Fred Ottman), who is still working through the rehab process after spending approximately a month in the hospital earlier this year when his gallbladder “exploded,” is getting ready to head back on the road for signings. His first booking is in North Carolina on July 25.
  • Sol Ruca was the guest on No-Contest Wrestling this week.
  • WWE Vault uploaded an Ultimate Warrior & Strikeforce vs. Demolition & Mr. Fuji match from the Boston Garden in 1988.

Other Wrestling

  • Rebel thanked The Young Bucks – and Matt Jackson’s wife Dana Massie – for donating their YouTube live stream proceeds from last night to her ALS fundraiser:
    • BIG thank you to you guys and Dana. My heart is filled and I am truly grateful for your prayers
  • On the stream, Matt Jackson responded to someone who said they’d like to see The Good Brothers (Karl Anderson & Luke Gallows) back in AEW:
    • I would love to do that, trust me. I may have tried to do that recently. They’re killing it right now. They’re so busy on the indies
  • Though MJF is unable to appear due to injury, Wheeler Yuta and Lio Rush have been added to Beyond Wrestling’s show in Cranston, Rhode Island this Friday night.
  • Indie promotion F1RST Wrestling will hold its annual Mall of America event on July 31 in Bloomington, Minnesota.
  • Uncrowned FIlms put together a 13-minute video on Brodie Lee Jr.’s debut at Spring Break.
  • Jonathan Gresham shared his thoughts ahead of competing in GCW’s Tournament of Survival this weekend:
    • If you had told me years ago that I’d willingly enter a deathmatch tournament, I probably would have laughed. But after returning to the ring, something changed. I felt blessed simply to be here again. Blessed to compete. Blessed to learn. Blessed to experience this life through professional wrestling.
    • That feeling opened a door in my mind.
    • I no longer want to see only one side of this art form—I want to experience all of it. Every style. Every challenge. Every lesson hidden behind a different set of ropes. Professional wrestling is a vast world, and I want to walk every path it offers.
    • So this is my next step.
    • Deathmatch wrestling.
    • I look forward to testing myself, embracing the unknown, and carrying the spirit of pure wrestling and MAG with me into an environment where it rarely exists. Different roads. Different philosophies. Same pursuit of growth.
    • As always, I am a student of the game.
    • And this weekend, the classroom just happens to be a tournament of survival.
    • With the fire and spirit of the originals, I am the foundation.

Daily Update: Nick Khan, AEW-Australia, Mick Foley

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • The most detailed look at the sale of New Japan, what happened, the glory days that Bushiroad built and why it came down and what led to the sale.
  • Business realities of Japanese wrestling today.
  • The reason for the surprising low sale price.
  • The shareholders lawsuit against Vince McMahon and the WWE Board of Directors is getting near. Judge Travis Laster orders sanctions against Nick Khan and Vince McMahon for destruction of evidence. Laster makes a ruling, and we look at it in detail, on how this changes the trial and the exact details of the destruction of evidence including when McMahon and company knew not to do it and ignored their own lawyers. Also we look at problems with the case.
  • AEW Double of Nothing coverage. Business notes, historical biggest gates in U.S. pro wrestling, three-time world champions by 30, how the PPV did, poll results, Mick Foley and more.
  • Did Ronda Rousey set a viewing audience record for MMA, plus coverage of Rousey vs. Carano, how everything goes forward, can things be sustained, can she fight, will she fight, her thoughts on AEW.
  • Scott Coker returns to MMA with a new promotion.
  • Marcel Barthel (Ludwig Kaiser) arrested.
  • A look at the career of Jerry Grey.
  • The most detailed look at the ratings for all the TV shows over the past two weeks.
  • Mistico injury update.
  • How CMLL is doing this year compared to last year.
  • Natalia Jiminez and J Balvin appear and are part of CMLL shows.
  • Wrestlers vs. media soccer game.
  • Grande vs. Grande match looked at.
  • Major return to Stardom.
  • Champion Carnival finals.
  • NOAH tag team tournament.
  • New Japan Best of the Super Juniors tournament.
  • Hana Kimura tribute show.
  • Phil Hickerson passes away.
  • WCW announcer is the final anchor as CBS News Radio closes its doors after 99 years.
  • Death of the Laguna version of Piloto Suicida.
  • Junior Hodge Trophy winner.
  • Advance ticket sales for all major events in AEW, WWE, TNA and other indies.
  • Pro wrestler/fighter on the Rousey-Carano undercard.
  • WWE stars purchase promotion.
  • Tony Khan media appearances.
  • More thoughts on how Paramount/Skydance can affect AEW.
  • What can affect the time slot of Collision in 2027.
  • What’s next for AEW.
  • AEW star to return in the fall.
  • Latest Zuffa myths regarding Trump and UFC.
  • UFC fighter pay comes up again

This Week’s Back Issue

FIRST TIME SUBSCRIBERS GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

Wednesday Update

WWE Logo
Official World Wrestling Entertainment logo. (Image credit: WWE)

WWE

  • During his appearance at SBJ On Stage (filmed in April but made available this week), Nick Khan was asked how WWE preserves the fan experience while ticket prices are higher than ever:
    • So here’s the challenge, and I’ll tell you a mistake we made with Canelo-Crawford [boxing match]… we wanted to make sure the upper bowl was priced family friendly. As soon as we put them on sale, the upper bowl was sold out in three minutes. It wasn’t sold out to families. It was sold out to third-party ticket brokers. So we priced it, I think, the cheapest seats at $35. A day later on the third-party broker websites, they were $75 selling. So the marketplace dictates the ticket price.
  • WWE uploaded the full Tony D’Angelo vs. Kam Hendrix NXT Championship match from last night.
  • Cody Rhodes had Brian Koppelman, co-creator of the Showtime series “Billions,” as the guest on his “What Do You Wanna Talk About?” podcast this week.
  • Asuka shared a vlog introducing fans to her new dog named Big Body Boss.
  • AJ Lee made an appearance on The Match-Up from iHeart Women’s Sports.

Other Wrestling

  • Tony Khan told Wide World of Sports that Australia remains an important market for AEW:
    • I absolutely want to come back to Australia. We’ve had incredible events with the fans in both Sydney and Brisbane. I think we’ve built a great audience, our wrestlers are so popular and some of the top stars in AEW are actually from Australia.
    • Given what a great wrestling country it is and how many awesome stars we have in AEW from there, I think we’ve got something really special.
  • While appearing on The Ariel Helwani Show, Mick Foley was asked if he’s thought about telling Darby Allin that he does not need to take all of the risks he’s taking in the ring:
    • Yes, I will have that conversation. I didn’t think the time to have the conversation was hours before his biggest match [at Double or Nothing]. I’ve been told that people have had that conversation with him. And he says, ‘Everybody does the best stuff on the pay-per-views. I owe it to my fans to do it on every televised event. So, I’ll try to talk with Darby. I didn’t know until about six weeks ago that I was an inspiration in his career…
    • But I will have that talk with him and try to find out, like, it’s got to be another gear where you can allude to the things, give people 80 percent of what you usually do, knowing that the vast majority of his fans will be thankful for what he gives them and they will understand that they might have to wait until a special event to get the 100 percent Derby. I understand many a man has tried and failed, but I’ll give him the best advice I possibly can.
  • Kevin Knight tweeted ahead of his TNT title defense against “Speedball” Mike Bailey on Dynamite:
    • This was never about you Speedball. You and the rest of the sickos don’t understand…So forgive me for what I’m about to do to you tonight. #AewDynamite
  • To promote tonight’s show, Tony Schiavone was interviewed on Virginia This Morning.
  • 101.9 Kiss FM also had Schiavone on as a guest.
  • FTR (Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler) vs. The Good Brothers (Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows) has been announced for Appalachian Mountain Wrestling’s Super Bowl of Wrestling show in Corbin, Kentucky on August 22.
  • WWE’s Adam Pearce showed his support for Rebel (Tanea Brooks) by sharing the link for her I Am ALS fundraiser.
  • Kerry Morton challenging Thrillbilly Silas Mason for the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship is official for NWA Hard Times 6 in Atlanta this Saturday. The show is being filmed for future episodes of NWA Power.
  • Stardom wrestlers Saya Kamitani and RINA will be doing meet and greets at MLW’s events in New York City and Philadelphia on June 11-13
  • Eddie Edwards spoke with Scottish Wrestling Network.

Daily Update: WWE notes, Twisted Metal, MJF

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

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Latest Audio

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Thursday Update

Triple H WWE Raw
Triple H hypes up the WWE crowd. (Image credit: WWE)

WWE

  • WWE posted a video with Paul “Triple H” Levesque sending a message to fans ahead of Clash in Italy:
    • We’re a few days out from Turin, and if I can give one message to the fans: Believe me, this will mean as much to us and the WWE Superstars as it does to each and every one of you. We cannot wait to get there.
    • One of the great things about being a WWE Superstar is that global nature of what we do. The ability to go to countries where maybe they don’t speak the same language, maybe the culture is completely different to ours. It really points out the similarities, as opposed to the differences, between us all.
    • I’ve heard people say before that music is the universal language, but I think maybe WWE is the universal action genre. It connects with everybody. It’s simple to understand. It’s not country vs. country. It’s an escape. It’s larger-than-life superheroes solving their conflict in our ring. There’s a universal language to that.
  • Jade Cargill promoted Clash in Italy during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show.
  • ESPN has a 30-minute video of Cody Rhodes reflecting on some of his career highlights.
  • WrestleVotes reports that, while WWE is being flexible with AAA’s scheduling ahead of this year’s two-night Triplemania, AAA Verano de Escandalo 2026 is planned for late July.
  • In an interview with Huge Pop, Gunther discussed the quick success Oba Femi has found on the WWE main roster:
    • He came in guns blazing, really good for him. Hasn’t been in the ring with me 20 minutes yet, so let’s see. I feel like down the line, that’s going to be something that’s very interesting. I think he’s a super exciting talent, and very much looking forward to seeing what he’s going to do in the next years. I think he’s got the potential to be a big superstar in this company, be one of the pillars down the line.
  • Gunther was the guest on No-Contest Wrestling this week.
  • The Hollywood Reporter published an article on Danhausen “uncursing” the New York Knicks on their run to the NBA Finals.
  • R-Truth appeared on Undertaker’s Six Feet Under podcast.
  • CM Punk was mic’d up in the crowd while attending Tuesday’s Las Vegas Golden Knights NHL playoff game.
  • WWE Vault uploaded Rey Mysterio’s 1992 mask vs. mask match against Mr. Condor from AAA. The video includes a brief introduction from Mysterio.

Other Wrestling

  • Explaining Samoa Joe’s AEW absence over the next few months, season three of Peacock’s “Twisted Metal” – where Joe plays Sweet Tooth – is scheduled to film in Toronto from June 15 through August 26.
  • On Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Brian Myers (Curt Hawkins) recalled meeting MJF for the first time when MJF started training at his wrestling school
    • Yeah, I’ll never forget it. It was very early on, probably the first four months of Create A Pro. It’s kind of funny, because it’s a very similar mentality, he committed to something in college football, but he really had his heart set on wrestling. I think it kind of hit a wall with what he was doing and what his parents wanted him to do and what he wanted to do. I was in a very similar situation, because when you tell people you want to be a wrestler, it’s not really that believable. His dad came in with him, and it almost felt like, ‘Here, he’s your problem now, this is what he wants to do.’ I was like, let’s go. So pretty early on, we did a promo class where he just murdered this kid, and I was like, okay, and there’s something about this guy.
  • Myers called MJF’s in-ring ability “wildly underrated” and said MJF’s work ethic is something younger wrestlers should emulate:
    • He should be studied for young guys too, like just doing everything that you’re supposed to do to make it. Getting in the car, making the drives, making the connections, you know what I mean? Max is a people person. So he gets your number, ‘What’s your number?’ He stays on top of you for opportunities, things that a go-getter does, he did all those things. He checked all those boxes.
  • Mistico is hoping to return from his knee injury at CMLL’s Arena Mexico show on June 5.
  • The Wrestling Classic has an interview with Cedric Alexander.
  • Candice Michelle, who works behind the scenes as a producer in TNA, appeared on TMZ Inside the Ring.
  • WrestleZone spoke with Shotzi Blackheart.

Daily Update: Cody Rhodes-Danhausen, Shingo Takagi, The Rock

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

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Wednesday Update

Lola Vice Izzi Dame WWE
Lola Vice faces off with Izzi Dame on WWE NXT. (Image credit: WWE)

WWE

  • WWE uploaded the full Lola Vice vs. Izzi Dame NXT Women’s Championship match from last night.
  • To promote Clash in Italy, Cody Rhodes appeared on ESPN’s SportsCenter, First Take, Get Up, and The Rich Eisen Show today.
  • Rhodes told ESPN Unsportsmanlike that Danhausen is the “king” of WWE’s merch sellers right now:
    • I think it’s safe to say Danhausen is one of the most popular people in all of WWE at the moment, and I don’t see it really stopping. He overtook the merch game. There’s all kinds of market confusion because the WWE Shop website has a thing that people actually believe, but I’ll tell you who’s the king right now of the merch game – it’s Danhausen. He’s beating us all.
  • For an ESPN video, Seth Rollins looked back at some of his WWE highlights.
  • Though it’s not confirmed that he’ll be attending, Dana White told Time that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has been invited to the UFC’s show at the White House next month:
    • At least 1,200 of the approximately 4,300 seats will go to active military members. The White House, TKO, and the UFC will divvy up the rest: White has invited Adam Sandler, Guy Ritchie, Tom Brady, Jared Leto, Jason Statham, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, and Mario Lopez.
  • AJ Styles’ son Avery shared training footage of himself doing his father’s patented Spiral Tap into a crash pad.
  • Today marks 30 years since Scott Hall arrived in WCW by invading Nitro. To celebrate the anniversary, WCW’s YouTube channel posted that full Nitro episode.

Other Wrestling

  • Shingo Takagi commented on the news that NJPW’s ownership is transferring from Bushiroad to TV Asahi & CyberAgent:
    • I know the [Bushiroad] owner personally, and I want to say once again, thank you for the past 14 years. It was the same when LIJ (Los Ingobernables de Japon) disbanded, but I’m in a situation where I’m wondering ‘what’s going to happen,’ and I can’t help but be excited. I just have to work hard and stay positive, showing a bright future.
  • AEW wrestler Max Caster filed a trademark for the term “Volume 2” on May 26.  Along with that, Caster posted a tweet calling indie promotion Beyond Wrestling/Wrestling Open his new home and the only place where people will be able to see him every week:
    • My new home. Proud to be a part. 
    • The only place you’ll see the Best Wrestler Alive every week.
  • The Young Bucks uploaded a new Being the Elite video focused on Stadium Stampede.
  • 94WIP in Philadelphia interviewed Wheeler Yuta.
  • Indie wrestler Erick Stevens announced that he’s stepping away from the ring for what might be the final time:
    • Thank you to all of the promotions who brought me in, all of my opponents, and all of the fans who supported this run.  
    • Pro wrestling owes me nothing.  I just hope that I’m leaving it better than I found it.  
    • I’ve learned to never say ‘goodbye’ in this business.  Did that a couple times and looked like a dummy when I came back.  Even though this feels like my last run, you really just never know.  With that being said, I’ll leave you with this:
    • See you later.

Daily Update: NJPW G1 fan fest, MJF, Road Warriors A&E doc

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

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Thursday Update

Road Warrior Animal WWE
Road Warrior Animal battles D’Lo Brown. (Image credit: WWE)

WWE

  • The Rich Eisen Show interviewed John Cena.
  • AJ Styles streamed a live Q&A edition of his Phenomenally Retro podcast.
  • Nattie shared a photo from the Paramount Pictures lot in Los Angeles last night: “Working on my LOW-KEY LEGENDARY dreams today…”
  • Kim Laurinaitis, the widow of Road Warrior Animal, made an appearance on Busted Open Radio to discuss her criticism of A&E’s Biography: WWE Legends episode on The Road Warriors. She wishes the documentary was more positive instead of focusing on Hawk’s addiction struggles so much. And along with some inner-family squabbles affecting her view of the show, Kim did not like that Bruce Prichard was interviewed:
    • I’ll be quite honest, Bruce Prichard, I battled with him online lately. He rips my husband on his podcast a lot of times or little clips. And I’m thinking, why are you even on here talking about him? We know you don’t really care for him. So I would have rather had people that had positive things to say and really meant them.
  • On his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker T called Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano’s MMA fight the “biggest heist” he’s ever seen:
    • This fight between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano, I’ve seen a lot of fights in my life. I’ve seen a lot of fights in my life. And I’ve been in the wrestling business for 35 years now. It’s three things I look for when it comes to combat, you know, when I’m in certain places, especially when I’m watching something like this. And it’s a work, it’s a worked shoot, and it’s a shoot, okay?
    • This was a worked shoot. That was not real, that thing wasn’t real. I mean, it was real as far as the takedown goes. But everything after that, it was, ‘I’m ready. I’m ready. Let’s go home.’ It was one of those type of deals. And if you go back and watch it and study it, you’re going to come to the same consensus that I’m saying right now. That fight, that was not fair. That fight was not fair for the people for Ronda Rousey to come back. And literally, that was like the biggest heist I’ve ever seen.
  • LA Taco published a story on Becky Lynch & Seth Rollins’ new coffee brand AMO.
  • Saturday Night Live cast member Michael Che was the guest on this week’s episode of Stephanie McMahon’s “What’s Your Story?” podcast.
  • WWE Vault uploaded the full “Superfan” documentary on Vladimir Abouzeide, who is battling Parkinson’s disease and was hospitalized this week due to a fall.

Other Wrestling

  • NJPW announced that, the day before night one of G1 Climax 36, the promotion will be holding a fan fest in Chicago on July 10. It will include a talk show segment as well as meet and greets with some of the G1 competitors:
    • NJPW fans! Make your plans to be in Chicago early for a special G1 Climax Fan Event ahead of opening night G1 Climax 36 action!
    • The July 10 event will feature a special talk show segment, along with two meet & greet sessions with select G1 Climax 36 participants!
    • More details are coming soon but get ready to be in Chicago for this great fan experience!
  • While speaking with The Takedown on SI, MJF said Vince McMahon is to blame for some fans being preconditioned to believe that hair match stipulations are a joke:
    • You can thank Vince McMahon for that. It wasn’t comedy in Memphis, it wasn’t comedy in World Class, it wasn’t comedy in Mexico. Listen, I can’t speak for anybody else, all I know is – I make money off of this hair. I’m in movies. I’m a top guy in this industry. And if I want to be a top guy in this industry, I can’t be bald. Bald doesn’t sell. It just doesn’t.
  • Shelton Benjamin told The Wrestling Classic that, aside from getting Cedric Alexander back in the group, Kevin Knight would be his first choice for a new Hurt Syndicate member. Benjamin sees Knight as someone who will be a star for the next 10-20 years:
    • If it were my choice today, if I said I wanted a new member in the Hurt Syndicate, the Hurt Syndicate wants a fourth member, without a doubt, my first pick would be Cedric Alexander. My second pick would be Kevin ‘Jet’ Knight.
  • Bobby Steveson (formerly known as Damon Kemp in NXT) teased an in-ring return while confirming that he was backstage at Monday’s ROH TV taping in Jacksonville: “Felt good to be back around the squared circle.. Soon?…”
  • Trevor Lee vs. Austin Aries (taped in January) will be part of the lineup for MLW Fusion’s return episode on May 30.
  • Evil Uno’s Mystery Wrestling promotion announced three new events:
    • July 25 at Bain Mathieu in Montreal, Quebec, Canada
    • August 29 at Big Penny Social in London, England
    • September 13 at The Rec Room in Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  • Chris Jericho interviewed Frankie Kazarian on Talk is Jericho.
  • Comedians/wrestling fans Dan Soder & Will Sasso were guests on Insight with Chris Van Vliet.

Daily Update: Nikki Bella, new John Cena movie trailer, Michael Tarver

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

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Wednesday Update

Darby Allin | AEW
Darby Allin celebrates winning the AEW World title on Dynamite. (Image credit: AEW)

WWE

  • During an interview with USA Today, Nikki Bella said she’s hoping to return from her ankle injury by the end of June:
    • Injuries are so funny. I always try to ask that (asking the medical team for updates). (They’re like) ‘not until I see what your ankle looks like in June,’ and I’m like, ‘But if you were to just guess,’ and they’re like, ‘Don’t know, not until June,’
    • I’m hoping, for me in my head, end of June would be incredible, but I also don’t want to go back too early, because you know the big part about when people get reinjured is because their strength isn’t matching, so I need to make sure the calves, the quads, glutes, I need to make sure they’re all built up.
  • WWE uploaded the full Tatum Paxley vs. Lizzy Rain NXT Women’s North American Championship match from last night.
  • The Mark Moses Show interviewed NXT Champion Tony D’Angelo.
  • Charlotte Flair appeared on the latest episode of TMZ’s Inside the Ring podcast.
  • Bianca Belair shared photos (part one, part two) of her baby shower, which was attended by many WWE colleagues including Liv Morgan, Nattie, Angelo Dawkins, Alexa Bliss, Ivy Nile, Nia Jax, Lash Legend, Maxxine Dupri, Michin, Solo Sikoa, LA Knight, Omos, IYO SKY, and Jey Uso
  • Netflix released the official trailer for the upcoming John Cena-Eric Andre comedy “Little Brother.” The movie debuts on June 26:
    • Rudd (John Cena) has the perfect life – great job, loving family, and a thriving career as a real estate agent… until his little brother, Marcus (Eric Andre), crashes back into his world as a full-blown agent of chaos, stress-testing every part of Rudd’s carefully controlled existence.
  • To mark yesterday being the 30th anniversary of the “Curtain Call,” WWE Vault uploaded the 2015 documentary “The Kliq Rules.”

Other Wrestling

  • In a feature story for ESPN, Darby Allin discussed potentially becoming a father at some point and whether that would change him:
    • Will having kids of my own change me and make me tone it down? No, I don’t believe so. And I’ll tell you why. Because the moment I have a kid, I want to keep showing them that there’s no age limit that says you must calm down. You have to be that much more inspiring to them, because, who am I if I’m playing it safe with my 5-year-old? That’s not Darby Allin. But if I’m strapping the 5-year-old to a Can-Am and going on some jumps? That’s who I am. I want my kids to have the confidence I never had growing up.
  • The Allin story is the first AEW-focused piece to appear on ESPN’s website in quite some time. It was written by Andreas Hale, who was declined a credential for WWE WrestleMania 42 after covering the Janel Grant/Vince McMahon story for ESPN.
  • MJF made an appearance on SNY’s Baseball Night in NY.
  • Mark Briscoe celebrated today being the 26th anniversary of he and his late brother Jay making their in-ring debuts.
  • The Wrestling Classic interviewed Shelton Benjamin.
  • Will Ospreay praised NJPW wrestler Robbie X, who defeated Kosei Fujita in the main event of today’s Best of the Super Juniors show:
    • Robbie X is legitimately has been the best jr heavyweight for the last 4 years.
    • Seeing him get his flowers and rocking korakuen hall is a different level of special to see!!
  • Wrestling broadcaster Sam Laterna thanked Tony Khan for giving her the opportunity to serve as an on-screen interviewer at this week’s ROH TV tapings in Jacksonville:
    • If there’s one thing I’ll always bet on, it’s myself.
    • Huge thank you to Ring of Honor and Tony Khan for bringing me in for interviews at this round of ROH TV tapings. It was so wonderful seeing old friends, meeting new ones, and getting to work in such a fun environment!
  • Claressa Shields, a top women’s boxing star, showed up for Sukeban in New York City last night and got physically involved by delivering a punch and even earning a pinfall victory during the surprise appearance.
  • Fabian Aichner has filed a trademark for the nickname “Il Gladiatore,” which translates to “The Gladiator.”
  • Former Nexus member Michael Tarver is retiring from the ring with his final shows happening this Saturday and Sunday:
    • This is emotional week
    • This is my official goodbye to the pro wrestling Biz (in ring)
    • I finish my now 22 year journey with the 2 brothers who took me in 22 years ago in Barberton in a little dive bar called the Shamrock night club Josh E Robinson , Lamont Williams my brothers for life. I will be sharing some of my favorite moments of my career over the next week. Drew Jeffrey Andrew Taylor, from my start in UWC, CAPW, AIW, PWU, NWA to WWE / NXT and NJPW
    • From Akron Ohio to Japan to London to India to Puerto Rico to South Africa
    • From signing a @wwe contract homeless to being a part of a WrestleMania main event and main eventing SummerSlam

Daily Update: Jim Ross, Finn Balor, Jelly Roll

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • Ted Turner’s legacy in sports
  • The history of pro wrestling on the Turner Networks
  • The skyrocketing success and rapid decline of WCW
  • The television heyday of Georgia Championship Wrestling
  • How Ted Turner first got involved in pro wrestling
  • Why Vince McMahon hated Ted Turner and how irrational it was at times
  • The local TV business in the early 70s
  • The 1972-74 Atlanta wrestling war, how it started and ended
  • The start of Gordon Solie and Tony Schiavone on TBS
  • The growth of TBS
  • The launching of CNN
  • How Vince McMahon got on TBS
  • Why McMahon and Turner had issues during their year working together
  • The role Jim Barnett played
  • The death of Mid South Wrestling
  • The death of Jim Crockett Promotions
  • The death of WCW
  • How Barnett manipulated the Crocketts getting on TBS
  • Vince McMahon’s cable power plays and Turner’s reactions
  • The signing of Hulk Hogan and rise of Eric Bischoff
  • Hall, Nash and Bret Hart come to WCW
  • How Bischoff nearly purchased WCW and how it fell through
  • A reprint of a 2001 article on the closing of WCW that Ted Turner himself read and praised
  • Reaction to the death of WCW
  • Numerous people react to the death
  • The tribute on AEW television
  • His exploits in other sports
  • Rupert Murdoch, Ric Flair, Jane Fonda, Tony Khan and others in sports comment on Turner’s death
  • Turner’s life after he lost control of the networks
  • His charitable work
  • Update on Tanea “Rebel” Brooks
  • A first look at how UFC is performing and its revenue driven vs. expense for Paramount
  • WWE cuts continue and are looked at
  • A crazy note about the income of just four of TKO’s top executives and how it compares to the pay for UFC and WWE athletes. This is absolutely shocking
  • Nick Khan’s new contract with TKO
  • Why so many cuts were made this year and more notes on the pay cuts
  • New Day bid farewell
  • WWE & UFC first quarter financials looked at
  • More talk regarding Middle East shows, Zuffa Boxing, and complaints regarding WWE and UFC
  • Backlash preview, business notes and odds
  • Notes on AEW Double or Nothing
  • New Japan Dontaku coverage
  • Nico Ali Walsh on Nick Khan’s testimony before Congress
  • NOAH big show notes
  • The most detailed look at the TV ratings from the pro wrestling and MMA shows this past week
  • Fantastica Mania Mexico
  • CMLL vs. MLW at Arena Mexico notes
  • Grande Americano vs. Grande Americano
  • Lots of injury updates
  • Who in AEW was set for a major push that is now on hold
  • Champion Carnival down to final four
  • Cuatrero convicted in domestic violence case involving Stephanie Vaquer
  • Raja Jackson case coming to a close
  • Former WWE wrestler murder case makes pub again
  • Worldwide YouTuber numbers
  • Dana White talks McGregor’s return
  • Notes on Roman Reigns and his schedule
  • When did Nick Khan learn Vince McMahon was being investigate for sex trafficking
  • Janel Grant gets more public
  • Notes from WWE’s television contracts

This Week’s Back Issue

FIRST TIME SUBSCRIBERS GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

Thursday Update

Finn Balor WWE Demon
Finn Balor competes at WWE WrestleMania 42. (Image credit: WWE)

WWE

  • Finn Balor told Stephanie McMahon that, while he loves Japan, he doesn’t think he wants to wrestle there full-time again before the end of his career:
    • I always kind of imagined myself going back to Japan to finish my career in Japan. I didn’t want to leave Japan, but I kind of wanted to roll the dice with WWE and give it a try. And like, if I had a year at NXT and then it didn’t work out, I would have happily went back to Japan.
    • I like how everything [in Japan] is just exactly as you see it. There’s no bullsh*t. Like, people are straight with you. It’s ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answers. Everything’s clean, organized. Maybe I was immune to the politics because I didn’t speak the language so good. So I was kind of ignorant to that stuff, you know? And obviously, when you look back on any time, romantically, you always kind of hold that up.
    • I fell in love with Japan, but I don’t want to go back to wrestling in Japan, I don’t think. I’d love to go back to Japan and spend time there. When we go back with WWE, it’s absolutely incredible. To perform for WWE in Japan, that’s the dream.
    • Maybe we can set up an NXT Japan. [Triple H] might need a right-hand man to run it. Me and Shinsuke [Nakamura] I think would do a good job over there, right? God, that would be incredible. Go back to my dojo training days.
  • DJ Bootleg Kev shared that his friend Jelly Roll was “very self aware” that fans would not like him getting involved in the Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton WrestleMania 42 story:
    • I’m pretty comfortable in saying this. I’m really close to Jelly Roll — he was very self aware that he was being pushed into a storyline that he probably didn’t need to be pushed into. And he was pushing, he was being very vocal about wanting to be involved in a storyline that is still playing out currently that was more comedic.
    • And he was like, ‘Guys, if you put me into this thing, I promise you it’s going to cook. It’s going to f**k.’ I was there at SmackDown in Phoenix and I heard him having these convos with certain people at WWE. And they still decided to – and, look, if you’re him, you’re like, ‘Hey man, if you’re going to push me into the main event of WrestleMania, I’m not going to say no. But I don’t think people are going to [like it].’ And then to me it wasn’t even him so much, the McAfee thing was like – it was just weird. It just made no sense.
  • US Weekly asked Cody Rhodes how he would feel about his daughters Liberty and Leilani becoming wrestlers:
    • I would say the same thing my dad said, which was cool. ‘You can go into it, but you have to be the best.’ And that’s easier said than done, but I think they could certainly do it, those two.
  • Jimmy Hart, Diamond Dallas Page, and Fallon Henley have recorded interviews for future episodes of Rhodes’ “What Do You Wanna Talk About?” podcast.
  • DDP posted some photos from WWE Headquarters after spending the day there yesterday for the podcast.
  • Jake Paul claimed that TKO has “major beef” with him over the back and forth he’s gotten into with UFC boss Dana White:
    • From my side, I’m just having fun. And the fact that one of the biggest organizations in the world, the TKO Group, has this major beef with me – they won’t even let me be in my brother’s WWE matches because they hate me so much. And so it’s pretty wild how much under their skin we are. And to me, yeah, it’s just been a fun journey. I enjoy sh*t talk. I like when people make fun of me. I’m easy to make fun of. You know, I’m able to make fun of myself, so the beef to me is just fun and entertaining for everybody.
  • Gunther shared a video working out in the gym with Ilja Dragunov.
  • Italian YouTuber Enry Lazza has an interview with Gunther.
  • Sami Zayn appeared on Huge Pop! with Donnie DaSilva and Jimmy Korderas.
  • Ethan Page was the guest on Complex’s Graps podcast this week.

Other Wrestling

  • On his Grilling JR podcast, Jim Ross said he plans on being in New York for AEW Double or Nothing on May 24:
    • I tell ya, AEW’s TV shows, and I know people expect us to ballyhoo it, to put it over – it’s easy to put it over when it’s good. And their TVs lately have been very good. And what they’re doing with Darby, they’re not doing anything more important on their television than featuring Darby Allin and letting us support him and get behind him and all that stuff. So he’s very resilient, and I like his approach a lot. So we’ll see how that materializes over the next few weeks. I plan on being in New York in a couple of weeks. And I’m excited about this card. It’s loaded, man. It’s got some good sh*t on it.
  • During an interview with Bootleg Kev, Swerve Strickland recalled seeing WWE star Oba Femi at the gym and telling Femi that, if it were up to him, Femi’s debut would have been winning the WWE Championship:
    • I met Oba at the gym and I said, ‘If I had the pen, your debut would be winning that belt.’ I was close because his debut was against Cody. And [Femi] was like, ‘How did you do this, man?’ I was like, ‘I just call it how I see it, it’s you, bro.’
  • Strickland gave his thoughts on influencers/celebrities crossing over into pro wrestling:
    • There’s a time and a place for it, for sure. Once again, it always comes back to the connection to the fan base. Like, how much have you connected with the fan base to warrant your level of involvement in said space in wrestling? You always got to listen to the fan base. They’re going to tell you what they’re receiving well. 
    • They’re like children, they cry when they’re getting something they don’t want. Or they’re going to cry when they want something. And then you feed it to them and they’re going to be like, ‘Oh, that satisfied me. You answered what I was [looking for].’ It’s the same way. They’re going to tell you when they don’t like it or they’re not digesting it well.
  • While looking ahead to his Best of the Super Juniors matchups, Jun Kasai gave his thoughts on Nick Wayne:
    • Yeah, we’ve been in GCW together and we’ve talked a bit. He’s younger than my son! If I lose to him, how can I look my own boy in the eye? [laughs]. But he really is a prodigy. You have this young protege and an average old vet. But even though I’m average, what I have in spades is passion. That’s what I’ve had for 28 years. That’s hard to beat.
  • Kasai, who is known for being a death match wrestler, described his BOSJ inclusion as a win-win:
    • I mean, if you eat your favorite food every day of the week and eventually you get sick of it. So for a misfit toy like myself to be in a top flight tournament for BOSJ it’s different for the tournament, and it’s different for me. So it’s win win.
  • After suffering a knee injury last September, CMLL wrestler Zandokan Jr. is set to return in La Copa Junior 2026. 
  • The Battleground Podcast interviewed AJ Francis.
  • ESPN published a feature story on Ronda Rousey ahead of her MMA return.

Daily Update: Upfronts, Bianca Belair, Dixie Carter

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • Ted Turner’s legacy in sports
  • The history of pro wrestling on the Turner Networks
  • The skyrocketing success and rapid decline of WCW
  • The television heyday of Georgia Championship Wrestling
  • How Ted Turner first got involved in pro wrestling
  • Why Vince McMahon hated Ted Turner and how irrational it was at times
  • The local TV business in the early 70s
  • The 1972-74 Atlanta wrestling war, how it started and ended
  • The start of Gordon Solie and Tony Schiavone on TBS
  • The growth of TBS
  • The launching of CNN
  • How Vince McMahon got on TBS
  • Why McMahon and Turner had issues during their year working together
  • The role Jim Barnett played
  • The death of Mid South Wrestling
  • The death of Jim Crockett Promotions
  • The death of WCW
  • How Barnett manipulated the Crocketts getting on TBS
  • Vince McMahon’s cable power plays and Turner’s reactions
  • The signing of Hulk Hogan and rise of Eric Bischoff
  • Hall, Nash and Bret Hart come to WCW
  • How Bischoff nearly purchased WCW and how it fell through
  • A reprint of a 2001 article on the closing of WCW that Ted Turner himself read and praised
  • Reaction to the death of WCW
  • Numerous people react to the death
  • The tribute on AEW television
  • His exploits in other sports
  • Rupert Murdoch, Ric Flair, Jane Fonda, Tony Khan and others in sports comment on Turner’s death
  • Turner’s life after he lost control of the networks
  • His charitable work
  • Update on Tanea “Rebel” Brooks
  • A first look at how UFC is performing and its revenue driven vs. expense for Paramount
  • WWE cuts continue and are looked at
  • A crazy note about the income of just four of TKO’s top executives and how it compares to the pay for UFC and WWE athletes. This is absolutely shocking
  • Nick Khan’s new contract with TKO
  • Why so many cuts were made this year and more notes on the pay cuts
  • New Day bid farewell
  • WWE & UFC first quarter financials looked at
  • More talk regarding Middle East shows, Zuffa Boxing, and complaints regarding WWE and UFC
  • Backlash preview, business notes and odds
  • Notes on AEW Double or Nothing
  • New Japan Dontaku coverage
  • Nico Ali Walsh on Nick Khan’s testimony before Congress
  • NOAH big show notes
  • The most detailed look at the TV ratings from the pro wrestling and MMA shows this past week
  • Fantastica Mania Mexico
  • CMLL vs. MLW at Arena Mexico notes
  • Grande Americano vs. Grande Americano
  • Lots of injury updates
  • Who in AEW was set for a major push that is now on hold
  • Champion Carnival down to final four
  • Cuatrero convicted in domestic violence case involving Stephanie Vaquer
  • Raja Jackson case coming to a close
  • Former WWE wrestler murder case makes pub again
  • Worldwide YouTuber numbers
  • Dana White talks McGregor’s return
  • Notes on Roman Reigns and his schedule
  • When did Nick Khan learn Vince McMahon was being investigate for sex trafficking
  • Janel Grant gets more public
  • Notes from WWE’s television contracts

This Week’s Back Issue

FIRST TIME SUBSCRIBERS GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

Wednesday Update

Bianca Belair WWE WrestleMania 42
Bianca Belair makes her entrance at WWE WrestleMania 42. (Image credit: WWE)

WWE

  • WWE uploaded the full Kendal Grey vs. Kelani Jordan match from NXT last night.
  • On Instagram, Bianca Belair showed a photo of how enlarged her ring finger still is from the injury she suffered at WrestleMania 41. Belair has gotten her wedding ring back and can wear it again, but the size has gone from a 7.5 to a 10, and her ring finger is now bigger than her thumb.
  • Cody Rhodes, representing WWE/ESPN, was in attendance at Disney’s upfronts in New York City on Tuesday. He sat alongside WrestleMania 42 rival Pat McAfee during a College GameDay panel at the event.
  • In response to Penta vs. Ethan Page being announced for Saturday Night’s Main Event, Rey Fenix tweeted that he also wants a shot at Penta’s Intercontinental title: “I love my brother, but i will like to have my chance.”
  • Brock Rechsteiner, the son of Scott Steiner who has been signed by the New Orleans Saints, named Bron Breakker, Roman Reigns, and Randy Orton as the three current WWE wrestlers he would choose to draft as his teammates in the NFL.
  • Rusev’s Kech Pro Wrestling school is now open in Nashville. Former WWE wrestler Gangrel is partnering with him as a trainer at the school.
  • CM Punk and Ken Shamrock will be among the panelists for a new “UFC Rivals” show that launches on A&E on Sunday, June 21. The first two episodes will focus on the Chuck Liddell vs. Tito Ortiz and Georges St-Pierre vs. Matt Serra rivalries. Mario Lopez is hosting the show, with Punk, Shamrock, Miesha Tate, and Michael Bisping listed as some of the names who will be part of the expert roundtable.

Other Wrestling

  • An AEW Dynamite graphic featuring MJF, Kenny Omega, Willow Nightingale, Will Ospreay, and Jon Moxley was on display at WBD upfronts today. It was shown alongside graphics for Shark Week, Guy Fieri’s Tournament of Champions, 90 Day Fiance, and Love & Marriage: Huntsville.
  • AEW/ROH wrestler Billie Starkz celebrated her graduation from college:
    • From ring ropes at 13 to a graduation cap in 2026
    • Years of bumps, bruises, early mornings, late nights, and chasing a dream that started in a wrestling ring before I even stepped into a college classroom. Here’s to proving you can chase your passion and your education at the same time.
    • The grind never stopped… it just earned a degree
  • Renee Paquette interviewed The Conglomeration on a new episode of AEW Close Up.
  • PWInsider reports that Dixie Carter turned down “several invitations” to be interviewed for the upcoming Dark Side of the Ring episode focused on TNA and Jeff Jarrett.
  • Sareee announced that she is taking approximately one month off from wrestling so that she can have neck treatment.
  • Following his release from WWE, Joe Gacy (now going by Joseph Sawyer) has been announced for a Blitzkrieg Pro show in Enfield, Connecticut on August 8 and a Pro Wrestling Junkie event in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey on September 20.
  • Indie wrestler Jay Bishop has signed with MLW.

Daily Update: Jacob Fatu, WWE Chile, The Sandman

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • A look at the WWE releases, reasons, prospects for the future, who should AEW or TNA be interested in
  • Nick Khan speaks to WWE employees about Paul Levesque, WrestleMania, social media, Saudi Arabia and AI
  • WWE Backlash and AEW Double or Nothing updates, including interest levels for both shows
  • Stardom All-Star Grand Queendom show looked at
  • How the latest Nielsen ratings change affects pro wrestling and where it affects it the most
  • Dragon Gate has its annual big Nagoya show this week
  • A look at the career of Gran Markus Jr.
  • The most detailed look at the television ratings for pro wrestling and MMA programming this past week
  • The 70th anniversary of pro wrestling at Arena Mexico
  • Who is coming for Fantastica Mania Mexico
  • Big match planned for AAA television
  • Champion Carnival update
  • NOAH major show update
  • New Japan has Dontaku with Andrade and Will Ospreay this week
  • Wrestling Red Zone coverage
  • A look back at the original Tiger Mask and his influence on pro wrestling and MMA
  • Who are the most famous wrestler in the ten largest cities in the world, and top 50 cities in the world
  • Biggest moments in NCAA wrestling tournament history over the past 60 years
  • Former pro wrestling booker heading up a unique promotion
  • Updates on Real American Freestyle
  • More UFC stars coming to RAF
  • Advance ticket sales for all the major pro wrestling events over the next two months and the story that it tells
  • Two relatives of major pro wrestling stars signing with NFL teams
  • Remembeing David Allan Coe, the country singer of Great American Bash fame
  • Jimmy Valiant retires
  • Former WWE star says she’s making a comeback
  • Carlos Silva on why TNA won’t let its talent work with AEW talent and examining what he said
  • AEW May television schedule changes
  • WWE television schedule changes
  • Ronda Rousey wants to be a promoter
  • Puck breaks a notable story on Ari Emanuel and Vince McMahon
  • More on when the next lawsuit against WWE goes to court
  • More notes on TNA expanding domestic exposure
  • More on new WWE signings
  • NXT house show notes

This Week’s Back Issue

FIRST TIME SUBSCRIBERS GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

Thursday Update

Jacob Fatu WWE Raw
Jacob Fatu confronts Roman Reigns on WWE Raw. (Image credit: WWE)

WWE

  • During an appearance on No-Contest Wrestling, Jacob Fatu cut a promo on fans who think he won’t defeat Roman Reigns at Backlash:
    • Let’s keep it 100. He just won it. This is the next PLE. So I can understand why people think, ‘Oh, well, he’s not going to lose. It’s just a match. He’s going to fall in line.’ Nah, that’s ass. All right. That’s ass
    • What y’all think? Y’all know the booking? What y’all think? ‘Oh, Roman Reigns, first title defense against Jacob. There’s no way Roman’s losing it.’ Man, that’s ass.
    • Because check this out, of course y’all going to be watching. Y’all going to be tapped in. So everybody else complaining online about this and that. Hey, hey, hey, I bet you will definitely buy that ESPN app. And I bet you going to be sitting there watching and enjoying the show and not saying a word during the match. So for everybody tapping in like that, come on. Man, come on with it.
  • Fatu added:
    • I can understand why people think I’m not going to win. First PLE, first title defense out of WrestleMania, there’s no way, right? Well, check this out – there was no way Jacob was supposed to be here. There was no way Jacob was supposed to be main event, PLE, Roman Reigns, right out of WrestleMania. But we’re here. And keep it 100. Like I said before, they ain’t never ran into nobody like me.
  • No-Contest Wrestling asked Fatu to name five wrestlers from WWE history that he would like to have main evented WrestleMania against:
    • Bron Breakker
    • Randy Savage
    • Jeff Hardy
    • Mr. Perfect
    • Brock Lesnar
  • Sami Zayn and Stephanie Vaquer called for WWE to change September’s house show in Chile into a PLE after tickets sold out quickly after going on sale.
  • Johnny Gargano announced that he and Candice LeRae’s dog Pawdme passed away after months of battling seizures:
    • I always made the joke that Pawdme’ was my first child. She prepared me for Quill. The real joke is that she’s actually way more high maintenance than her brother. She was SO good to him too. A true big sister. I’lll miss her sleeping between my legs. I’ll miss her zooming around the house with her rope. I’ll miss her sun bathing by the window of my gym.. I’m just really going to miss her. I just hope she knows we tried to give her the best life possible in the short time we had, and she will always hold an irreplaceable spot in our hearts. We love you forever, Tato. Thank you for choosing us to spend your life with.
  • The Miz promoted Backlash with appearances on ESPN’s Get Up, First Take, and The Rich Eisen Show.
  • Danhausen stormed into SportsCenter to help count down the top plays from the day.
  • Kevin Owens turns 42 years old today.
  • WWE Vault put together a video featuring rarely seen Championship Wrestling from Florida footage.

Other Wrestling

  • Actor Nick Offerman was the guest on a new episode of Talk is Jericho.
  • To prepare for his role on Apple TV’s “Margo’s Got Money Troubles,” Offerman – who didn’t know much about wrestling going in – read Bret Hart and Mick Foley’s autobiographies:
    • I was relatively ignorant. I knew the pop culture, the big stars of my youth, Hulk Hogan and Macho Man. My friend wrote a song about the Von Erichs. I knew bits and pieces, but I had no idea of the rich lore and just the culture, until I started researching for this job.
    • I read Bret Hart’s memoir and Mick Foley’s memoir, basically getting really into looking at all the different looks and gimmicks and characters that wrestlers have had over the years. It was a wonderful permission that Jinx’s [Offerman’s character] heyday was like 30 years ago, because that allowed us to be a lot more campy.
    • I have to say, it’s like getting cast as a linebacker or something. If you’re going to be out there actually representing and playing the sport, you got to respect it and treat it with absolute reverence, because I own a mirror, so I’ve never had a big enough ego to think that I can just ride it out on my personality alone.
  • On Insight with Chris Van Vliet, The Sandman was asked to encapsulate the career he’s had in the ring:
    • Too many drugs, honestly, too many drugs. A lot of smiles. I get a lot of fan mail and stuff at home. Just some of the things that people write to me and they tell me how I got them through a hard time in their life, or when their dad passed away, or something like that. Those are the times when it’s really, really worth it. I mean, it’s great when you’re living your life dream. When I was five years old, all I ever wanted to be was a pro wrestler. That’s it. Not a cop, fireman, doctor. All I ever wanted to be was a pro wrestler, so I got to live my life and make decent money out of it and make people really happy. You know, when you get some people come up to you and they’re like, ‘Oh my God, you’re the greatest thing ever.’ That just gives you goose bumps. That’s cool sh*t.
  • Inside the NBA did a segment last night remembering Ted Turner.
  • AEW wished Will Ospreay (33) and Angelico (39) happy birthday.

Daily Update: Ted Turner, Will Ospreay, new WWE production hire

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • A look at the WWE releases, reasons, prospects for the future, who should AEW or TNA be interested in
  • Nick Khan speaks to WWE employees about Paul Levesque, WrestleMania, social media, Saudi Arabia and AI
  • WWE Backlash and AEW Double or Nothing updates, including interest levels for both shows
  • Stardom All-Star Grand Queendom show looked at
  • How the latest Nielsen ratings change affects pro wrestling and where it affects it the most
  • Dragon Gate has its annual big Nagoya show this week
  • A look at the career of Gran Markus Jr.
  • The most detailed look at the television ratings for pro wrestling and MMA programming this past week
  • The 70th anniversary of pro wrestling at Arena Mexico
  • Who is coming for Fantastica Mania Mexico
  • Big match planned for AAA television
  • Champion Carnival update
  • NOAH major show update
  • New Japan has Dontaku with Andrade and Will Ospreay this week
  • Wrestling Red Zone coverage
  • A look back at the original Tiger Mask and his influence on pro wrestling and MMA
  • Who are the most famous wrestler in the ten largest cities in the world, and top 50 cities in the world
  • Biggest moments in NCAA wrestling tournament history over the past 60 years
  • Former pro wrestling booker heading up a unique promotion
  • Updates on Real American Freestyle
  • More UFC stars coming to RAF
  • Advance ticket sales for all the major pro wrestling events over the next two months and the story that it tells
  • Two relatives of major pro wrestling stars signing with NFL teams
  • Remembeing David Allan Coe, the country singer of Great American Bash fame
  • Jimmy Valiant retires
  • Former WWE star says she’s making a comeback
  • Carlos Silva on why TNA won’t let its talent work with AEW talent and examining what he said
  • AEW May television schedule changes
  • WWE television schedule changes
  • Ronda Rousey wants to be a promoter
  • Puck breaks a notable story on Ari Emanuel and Vince McMahon
  • More on when the next lawsuit against WWE goes to court
  • More notes on TNA expanding domestic exposure
  • More on new WWE signings
  • NXT house show notes

This Week’s Back Issue

FIRST TIME SUBSCRIBERS GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

Wednesday Update

WWE Logo

WWE

  • Jim Rodriguez announced that he has joined WWE as a Senior Associate Producer. His past work experience includes production roles for DAZN, Univision, and ESPN. He also has on-air hosting experience and speaks both English and Spanish:
    • Bucket list job! I’ve joined the WWE as a Senior Associate Producer. Gonna be involved with RAW, Smackdown, NXT productions and making trips to Mexico for AAA. Beyond excited.
  • WWE uploaded the full Lola Vice & Mr. Iguana vs. Izzi Dame & Niko Vance mixed tag match from NXT last night.
  • On May 5, WWE filed a trademark for “Naraku,” which is EVIL’s new NXT name.
  • John Cena continued to show support for new NXT addition Mason Rook (Will Kroos) by sending out another tweet after Rook laid out Tony D’Angelo last night.
  • To promote Backlash, Paul Heyman appeared on ESPN’s First Take and Get Up today.
  • WWE’s Pete Dunne will face off against Leon Cage for indie promotion Attack! Pro Wrestling in Cardiff, Wales on June 19.
  • Andscape and ESPN put together a video documenting Lash Legend’s WrestleMania debut.
  • WWE has a pre-Backlash vlog focused on Jacob Fatu.

Other Wrestling

  • The NWA posted a tribute to Ted Turner:
    • The National Wrestling Alliance mourns the passing of Ted Turner.
    • His vision helped shape the landscape of professional wrestling and brought the NWA to a national stage, creating moments that will live forever.
    • Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who were impacted by his legacy.
  • MLW wrote: “RIP Ted Turner. A true American tycoon and media maven.”
  • Matt Hardy tweeted: “RIP Ted Turner. Thank you for your investment into pro wrestling/sports entertainment and giving it a platform to grow & sprawl into pop culture.”
  • Turner Classic Movies posted a tribute to its founder:
    • We say goodbye to our founder, the visionary Ted Turner. Ted’s love of classic films inspired him to create a channel dedicated to preserving them. He considered TCM one of his greatest accomplishments.
    • His passion continues to inspire us all as we work to fulfill his mission.
  • CNN, Entertainment Tonight, Good Morning America, CBS News, and ABC News did segments covering Turner’s death.
  • Eric Bischoff appeared on both The Ariel Helwani Show and Busted Open Radio to share his memories of Turner.
  • In an interview with Forbes, Will Ospreay said he doesn’t feel comfortable doing the Shooting Star Press anymore following his return from neck surgery:
    • It’s mainly my range of motion right now. There are so many things where I just don’t feel comfortable doing certain tricks anymore, so I’ve kind of knocked them on the head. For example, I won’t do a shooting star press anymore because that required me to really put my head back and get a good arch, and I just can’t do it anymore.
  • Ospreay also told Forbes that he would love to see Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods join AEW:
    • I mean, I would love it. I’ve heard nothing but wonderful things about them. I loved watching Kofi Kingston win the WWE Championship and seeing what that meant to so many people. I think that’s powerful stuff.
    • I’ve only really spoken with Xavier Woods on Twitter, and I think it’s mostly been about costumes more than anything. He’s messaged me quite a lot about how he loves my jackets.
    • Everybody’s said they’re wonderful human beings, so if the avenues are there, of course I’d love to f****** wrestle them.
  • Leilani Kai shared an update on her Glamour Girls tag team partner Judy Martin after announcing that Martin was in the hospital:
    • I had a chance to speak with Judy [last night] on the phone. She wasn’t feeling well and we don’t have the test back yet to know what’s going on. I wrote her on the phone today and hadn’t heard back. I was getting nervous and the phone rang and it was her. I don’t know how she got ahold of it as she’s still in the hospital but she wanted to let me know she was ok. 
    • She bought me this jacket when my bag was lost flying to NJ. She didn’t want me to be cold and she even bought herself one so we could match. I’ve always been lucky to have my Judy in my corner. 
    • We are still waiting on further test and results. I’ll update you guys. Please keep my best friend in your prayers.
  • TNA put together a three-plus hour video with matches from the entire Kurt Angle vs. Samoa Joe series.
  • CMLL sent out a statement acknowledging the passing of Guillermina Zarzosa, a superfan who was known as “La Cavernaria.”
    • CMLL deeply mourns the passing of Ms. Guillermina Zarzosa ‘La Cavernaria,’ recognized as one of the most passionate and loyal fans in the history of our institution.
    • We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones, and wish them strength in coping with this irreparable loss.
    • May she rest in peace.
  • GCW has announced Joey Janela vs. Hook for its Race Against Time event in Cincinnati on June 19.
  • Leah Van Dale (former WWE wrestler Carmella) is launching a new podcast called “Hot Mom Sh!t”:
    • Hot Mom Sh!t is the podcast that lives in the AND — because you can look good and be a good mom. You can love your kids fiercely and still need to be more than just their mom. 
    • Hosted by Leah Van Dale, this is the show for the mom who is done pretending to have it all together, all of the time.
    • Hear the real stories, honest conversations, and the moments Leah probably should have kept to herself but didn’t. This isn’t a show about doing it perfectly.
    • It’s about the raw side of motherhood exactly as it is — hot and messy.

Daily Update: WrestleMania ESPN viewership, ROH Pure title, Big Damo

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

This Week’s Back Issue

FIRST TIME SUBSCRIBERS GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

Wednesday Update

WWE

  • WWE uploaded the full Sol Ruca vs. Zaria Last Woman Standing match that headlined NXT last night.
  • NXT wrestler Brooks Jensen is set to challenge coach Steve Corino for the PWF Championship at the indie promotion’s event in Newport, North Carolina this Sunday.
  • Ryan Glasspiegel of Front Office Sports reported the viewership numbers for ESPN’s TV simulcasts of the first hours of WrestleMania 42:
    • Night one (ESPN2): 1.62 million viewers
    • Night two (ESPN): 1.82 million viewers
  • Joe Jonas, who sang the National Anthem at night two of WrestleMania, uploaded a vlog from the event.
  • Jelly Roll also has a vlog with some WrestleMania footage.
  • Rapper Cam’ron made an Instagram post issuing a SummerSlam challenge to Jey Uso and his entire family: 
    • All I can do is laugh at you @romanreigns staying for Monday Night Raw after WrestleMania is like eating thanksgiving leftovers on Monday after thxgvn The Rock would Never
    • But you’re @tripleh lil lil employee. You better do what he says
    • @uceyjucey bring ya whole family and let’s settle this in August at #SummerSlam
    • @rosenbergradio make it happen
  • Big E tweeted about meeting up with AEW’s Kevin Knight and TNA’s Leon Slater during WrestleMania weekend:
    • Ran into @Jet2Flyy & @LEONSLATER_ at the gym in Vegas a few days ago. Glad I got to tell those brothers what a joy it is to watch them do incredible things in this industry. Pro wrestling’s youth movement is a beauty to behold.
  • The Wrestling Classic interviewed Alba Fyre.

Other Wrestling

Daily Update: WrestleMania week media notes

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • The most detailed look at  how the Pat McAfee angle developed, its goal, why so many in the company are unhappy with it, where it  is leading, addressing the biggest WrestleMania questions, what CM Punk aid, where Paul Levesque and Ari Emanuel fit in, as well as an update on WrestleMania tickets compared to last year, discount offers cutting price back and more
  • Preview to AEW Dynasty, matches and business notes as well as updates on Double or Nothing direction and business, as well as All In at Wembley Stadium.
  • Favorites for WrestleMania and Dynasty
  • Lots of business notes on WrestleMania
  • Callum Newman wins IWGP title and review of Sakura Genesis, what we learned, business, Best of the Super Juniors and Dontaku notes
  • NXT Stand & Deliver.  Match rundowns and stories as well as business notes on the show
  • Texts from Paul Levesque to Nick Khan released in discovery regarding Vince McMahon’s involvement in booking when talent was told McMahon was out and Levesques frustration at the time
  • A detailed look at TNA pulling  talent from advertised indie events that they had previously approved and a better way of handling it
  • A look at the career of 60s and 70s star Flying Fred Curry, one of the major stars of The Sheik’s heyday running Michigan and Ohio, son of Bull Curry and nine-time world tag team champion.
  • The arrest of Alberto el Patron, lots more details and his history, shows he’s been pulled from, an ironic aspect of this story n a reality show in Mexico late last year
  • The most detailed look at the ratings for all the television shows of the past week, with  comparisons with last week, last year, demos and other stats, male vs. female percentage
  • More stats regarding the audience at Arena Mexico shows as well as a look back on a major week last week.
  • Saya Kamtani has major goal for Stardom’s big show later this month
  • Japanese television in 1985 and who were the draws
  • Ric Flair upset over WWE costing him a major merchandise deal
  • How many times was Flair world champion
  • Lots of injury updates
  • Two more possible WrestleMania card changes
  • Janel Grant lawsuit thoughts

This Week’s Back Issue

FIRST TIME SUBSCRIBERS GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

Wednesday Update

WWE

  • WWE uploaded the full Lola Vice vs. Jacy Jayne NXT Women’s Championship match from last night.
  • A video package aired on NXT spotlighting Kendal Grey and her road to pro wrestling stardom. 
  • Sports Business Journal gave an update on the timeline for when YouTube TV subscribers will get access to the ESPN app at no additional charge:
    • ESPN is set to air its first WrestleMania this weekend under the new pact with WWE, but sources tell SBJ that YouTube TV subscribers will still not be able to authenticate on the ESPN app in time for the event. Google is working through tech issues related to the authentication, sources added, and there remains an expectation that the problems should be solved ahead of SummerSlam.
  • ESPN announced its coverage schedule for the remainder of WrestleMania week:
    • Throughout WrestleMania week, ESPN will originate studio programming and live events from key locations across Las Vegas, including WWE World, Toshiba Plaza, Allegiant Stadium and Dolby Live at Park MGM. SportsCenter coverage will be led on site by Randy Scott, Gary Striewski, Treavor Scales and Joe Fortenbaugh, delivering live reporting, fan engagement and behind the scenes storytelling throughout the week. Scott, Striewski and Scales will explore WWE World and fan experiences across Las Vegas and will interview and talk with WWE Superstars on site, while Scales and Fortenbaugh will be positioned for post-match coverage and reaction throughout WrestleMania weekend. First Take will originate from Las Vegas as part of ESPN’s on-site coverage, featuring Shae Cornette, Stephen A. Smith and Kendrick Perkins live Friday, April 17, at 10 a.m. from Allegiant Stadium.
    • Coverage also includes No Contest Wrestling, hosted by O’Shea Jackson Jr. and TJ Jefferson, airing Thursday and Friday at 2 p.m. on ESPN2 during WrestleMania week, alongside the WrestleMania 42 Kickoff Show, Countdown to WrestleMania 42, Nights 1 and 2 of WrestleMania and the 2026 WWE Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
  • Shannon Sharpe & Chad Ochocinco’s Nightcap podcast will be live on WrestleMania Radio Row at 2 p.m. Eastern tomorrow with Carmelo Hayes, Charlotte Flair, Jacob Fatu, Je’Von Evans, LA Knight, Nia Jax & Lash Legend, and more scheduled to appear.
  • On the Soder Podcast, Becky Lynch said that, when WWE wrestlers make outside appearances, people are surprised at how easygoing they are since wrestlers are not used to being catered to in WWE:
    • I mean this politely, we’re not catered to – at all. No. Maybe there’s a couple of folks, and as you get more into it, you put up with less sh*t. But we pay for our own gear, they’re not getting us gear. We buy our own gear. We buy our own rental cars. We buy our own hotels. We are in charge of booking those hotels and booking those rental cars. And I think that’s why, actually, when we go to work at other places, whether it be [Showtime show] ‘Billions’ or whatever, people are usually pleasantly surprised at how easygoing we are. Because we’re not used to being catered to. We don’t expect anything. We don’t expect anybody to look after us. Because we are standardly so self-sufficient.
  • Finn Balor, Dominik Mysterio, Rey Mysterio, Big E, and Jackie Redmond made appearances across ESPN to promote WrestleMania.
  • CM Punk & AJ Lee took part in a GOAT Talk video for Complex. In response to a question about celebrities he’d like to see in WWE, Punk said he’s changed his mind on celebrity involvement and is now more open to it:
    • Dave Bautista, John Cena – I just want my friends to come back to work.
    • I get a kick out of seeing celebrities cross over, because it’s either the most spectacular car crash disaster. And there was a time where I probably was the most ardent like, ‘No, the purity of the sport of pro wrestling, blah, blah, blah.’ And now I’ve shed all that and I realize there’s a time and there’s a place for a little bit of everything for everybody.
    • I think Bad Bunny was a spectacular professional wrestler. This is the biggest, most recognized global pop star in the world. And he’s a fan, and he doesn’t just want to come and goof around. He took it seriously and he did it.
  • CNN World Sport did a feature story on Oba Femi ahead of his WrestleMania debut.
  • SHAK Wrestling has an interview with Rhea Ripley, who discussed how much she’s looking forward to Bianca Belair’s eventual return:
    • Honestly, it’s not the same without Bianca there. I miss her. I hope that she comes back soon. But at the same time, I also hope she’s living her best life, not having to go to work for a little bit. She’s busted her ass for so long. They’ve literally made her do so much and work so much, she deserves the time off.
    • I wish it was under better a circumstance, because that finger be looking nasty. Like, it’s shocked me that she’s been out for nearly a year from a finger injury – something that seems so small is something that’s so big. I’ve seen the photos, she’s sent me the photos, so thank you, Bianca. They’re pretty gnarly looking.
    • I just really hope that she comes back soon. Like, I really do, but that finger, it’s so fat. It’s so swollen. She’s doing rehab every single day and I’m looking forward to the day that she does come back. I don’t know how long that’s going to be, unfortunately, because you need your finger to bend in wrestling. Otherwise, you’re going to break it again.
  • Je’Von Evans appeared on the Battleground Podcast.
  • Brie Bella uploaded a new vlog showing her training in the ring with husband Bryan Danielson as she prepares for WrestleMania.
  • Matches from WWE World will stream live on WWE’s YouTube channel tomorrow at 3:30 p.m. Eastern.

Other Wrestling

  • Before he challenges MJF for the AEW World Championship on Dynamite, Darby Allin sat down for an interview on Close Up with Renee Paquette.
  • New TNT Champion Kevin Knight spoke with The Takedown on SI about his title defense against Claudio Castagnoli on Dynamite:
    • To go against a guy like Claudio is an amazing time because I’ve never had him one-on-one, only in multi-mans. And I’ve actually had to support him a few times in Mexico, you know, ‘El Jet’ is a little bit different when you cross the border.
    • So I know Claudio pretty well, I think I have speed and youth on my side. Claudio is a well, well oiled machine, there’s nobody like Claudio, so I’m gonna have to be on my A-game, be on my A-game and Claudio won’t know what hit him.
  • Andrade El Idolo will face Richard Holliday for Awesome Championship Wrestling in Poughkeepsie, New York on May 16.
  • Ronda Rousey made an appearance on CBS Mornings to discuss her MMA return against Gina Carano.

Daily Update: WWE notes, GCW-AEW, Slammiversary

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • The most detailed update on the Janel Grant case, with her new filing and claims, a look at those claims in detail, what is net for the case, the key thing regarding the future of the case and why it really comes down to the judges ruling, and timeline for all of this. We cover new cais and the arguments for and against binding arbitration or continuing the civil case.
  • Update on WrestleMania, the card as of this point, reasons for some of the new matches, when matches changed and why, as well as the business for the show, how far behind are ticket sales and interest in the show as compared to the same period last year.
  • Chris Jericho returns to AEW and as much detail as we have on the decision
  • AEW Dynasty update and updated major event ticket sales
  • The death of J Robinson, a college coaching legend and his connections with a number of key figures in pro wrestling, including the recruiting of Brock Lesnar by WWE and the politics behind why WWE waited an extra year to offer him a deal.
  • The most detailed look at the television ratings for all the pro wrestling shows this past week, including competition, comparisons with one year back, Raw vs. Dynamite and how close it has become, and more.
  • It’s CMLL tournament of champions month starting this week
  • Anniversary shows at Arena Mexico and Arena Coliseo this week including a look back at the first show in each building
  • A look at the four title match show at ArenaMexico on Tuesday
  • A super hot match to watch on AAA
  • A look at Stardom’s biggest stipulation of the year and Yokohama Arena show
  • Current Tiger Mask retires
  • Best of the Super Junior tournament update
  • Largest crowd of the year for women’s wrestling in Japan
  • Hodge trophy winner looked at
  • Maple Leaf Wrestling announces new TV deal and a look at the weekend shows
  • Stabbing at a pro wrestling show
  • Very interesting political match will take place with TNA champion vs. AEW star
  • American gold medalist challenges UFC undefeated champion
  • Rebellion notes
  • Lots of injury updates and business notes
  • Wrestler complaining about AEW not booking them enough
  • Kenny Omega talks his and Kota Ibushi’s health
  • Brody King talks the chants
  • Tony Khan and his enemies
  • Kayla Harrison on why her next bantamweight fight will be her last and why she should never have fought at bantamweight to begin with
  • Crazy Dana White story
  • Will Mayweather-Pacquiao II take place and what are the issues
  • Fedor Emelianenko wants to return to combat next year
  • Nick Khan acquires TKO stock
  • Bret & Ross Hart talk Badnews Allen in WWE Hall of Fame

This Week’s Back Issue

FIRST TIME SUBSCRIBERS GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

Thursday Update

WWE

  • WrestleVotes reports that The Usos’ new theme music has been “tabled” after the crowd reaction it received when it debuted on the March 30 episode of Raw at Madison Square Garden.
  • Nattie shared video of Jacob Fatu training at The Dungeon last night ahead of WrestleMania: “So proud of @jacobfatu_wwe and how hard he’s been working with us since last year. It’s awesome to watch him build and help others in the process.”
  • Trick Williams spoke to Sun Sport about his transition from NXT to the main roster:
    • Man, I have to just say, everything that they’ve asked me to do hasn’t been good, it’s been great. It’s literally been a home run.
    • Them allowing me to talk and do my thing, but at the same time, you know, taking what I do and sending it to the nebula –  like Booker T said the other day – sending everything to the nebula, to the next level, that’s what Triple H is really good at.
    • He took my entrance that was already very good and made it spectacular and that’s what they do at the main roster, I think, better than anybody.
    • You know, if you learn how to do something with a little bit, then they can take a little bit and make it a lot, cause once they put their creative juices to it, it’s just gonna go crazy.
    • So I’m grateful for everybody who’s reached out and helped the whoop that trick experience. Triple H, Michael Hayes, Bruce [Prichard] – all of them.
  • On Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Liv Morgan said she’s not feeling any extra pressure heading into WrestleMania:
    • Not right now, and not in a bad way. I don’t know. I feel like since I’ve come back from my injury, I’m very much just trying to stay in the moment and be present. Obviously, WrestleMania is heavy on my mind, but I’m not feeling any anxiety or pressure yet. I’m just kind of taking everything day by day and just preparing as best as I can. So no, I don’t feel pressure right now in this moment.
  • Jade Cargill responded to a fan who claimed that she is on PEDs (performance-enhancing drugs):
    • I was going to read you for filth. But it’s no point. Long story short. No, I’m not on anything. I have GREAT genetics and I work hard. You can look at my brother and see my genetics. This clip is when I found out about my neck issues which affected my lifting. I swear yall will try to discredit me for anything. I’ve ALWAYS been muscular. But I see you can use a meal plan.
    • Plus WWE drug tests us like crazy. Next subject idiot.
  • Logan Paul uploaded a new vlog. 
  • WWE’s YouTube channel added the complete Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns matches from WrestleMania 39 and 40.
  • WWE Vault shared the company’s full March to WrestleMania VIII special from 1992.

Other Wrestling

  • Darby Allin told IHeartMedia that it’s “hard to say” whether it would be sweeter to face MJF or Kenny Omega for the AEW World Championship:
    • Yes, because me and Max have gone at it for years, way before AEW on the independents we were at each other’s throats. So to take that from him, somebody that is literally my polar opposite, would mean everything. But on the flip side, if Kenny Omega’s champion, that’s a first time ever match. Something that a lot of people never thought they’d see. I would never think I would’ve ever saw that. I was never in that realm at the time with Kenny and New Japan [Pro Wrestling] and everything like that.
    • To be world champion is everything because I feel this company has given me everything outside the ring and inside the ring. To be the face of this company I truly feel like you need to be that world champion so this week is pretty much do or die.
  • David Benoit was at Dynamite in Edmonton last night and shared backstage photos with Chris Jericho, Adam Copeland, Christian Cage, and Ricochet.
  • MJF appeared on The Adam Friedland Show.
  • “Speedball” Mike Bailey reflected on last week’s title eliminator match against MJF during an interview with Undisputed:
    • That match against MJF feels like what I’ve been preparing for my entire career. When I was banned from traveling to the US [due to immigration issues], I was always number-one on those lists of ‘the best wrestlers you’ve never heard of.’ Then I came to TNA, and I became ‘one of the best wrestlers you’ve kind of heard of.’ Now I’m where the best wrestle, fighting the champion.
    • MJF is in a great position right now in AEW. He’s the champion, he’s the number one guy. He is the best at what he does. There has never been a better MJF in history than MJF. I think that was a great first encounter. I have a feeling there will be more, and I feel like that was a very good starting point.
  • GCW promoter Brett Lauderdale commented on the promotion’s relationship with AEW/Tony Khan:
    • There have been bumps in the road but the truth is that Tony Khan and AEW have been good to GCW since day one, both publicly & privately. I am grateful and thankful that they continue to allow their talent to perform on our events.
  • In an interview with The Takedown on SI, Amazing Red had high praise for Mercedes Mone:
    • First of all, Mercedes Mone – amazing. She’s always been loyal man. Always just coming back to us [House of Glory] and knowing her roots. That’s how I am. So, I love that more about her… Ever since she came up to our school when we were in the other venue, like a little bodega store in Queens, actually. She came by and she’s like, I want to go over this match with you and run some spots and work out with you guys. And we’re looking at her because at this point, she’s in NXT. What you doing here?
    • I don’t care what anybody says about her. You cannot work like this girl. This girl works. She comes in just to talk and chill, but decides to bring her wrestling shoes and her gear and trains and sweats, and then talks about wrestling. As someone that loves pro wrestling like her, I don’t see a reason not to be around her.
  • TNA issued a statement to The Takedown on SI regarding Slammiversary taking place in Boston after initially being planned for Long Island. In the statement, TNA confirmed that potential logistical issues presented by the World Cup played a factor in the June 28 PPV’s location:
    • We are super excited to bring Slammiversary to the Agganis Arena at Boston University for the first time ever.
    • We also are well aware, as the world likely is, of the logistical traffic issues expected in New York City in late June, particularly with the World Cup in the area, NYC Pride, New York Mets home games and so much more.
  • Shotzi Blackheart, Trevor Lee, Ikuro Kwon, Donovan Dijak, Bishop Dyer, Diego Hill, KUSHIDA, Lady Frost, and Austin Aries have been announced for CMLL & MLW’s interpromotional event at Arena Mexico on May 1.
  • In partnership with Nike, Japanese women’s wrestling promotion Sukeban will be holding a show at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on May 19.

Daily Update: Alberto El Patron, Linda McMahon, Paul Wight

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • The most detailed update on the Janel Grant case, with her new filing and claims, a look at those claims in detail, what is net for the case, the key thing regarding the future of the case and why it really comes down to the judges ruling, and timeline for all of this. We cover new cais and the arguments for and against binding arbitration or continuing the civil case.
  • Update on WrestleMania, the card as of this point, reasons for some of the new matches, when matches changed and why, as well as the business for the show, how far behind are ticket sales and interest in the show as compared to the same period last year.
  • Chris Jericho returns to AEW and as much detail as we have on the decision
  • AEW Dynasty update and updated major event ticket sales
  • The death of J Robinson, a college coaching legend and his connections with a number of key figures in pro wrestling, including the recruiting of Brock Lesnar by WWE and the politics behind why WWE waited an extra year to offer him a deal.
  • The most detailed look at the television ratings for all the pro wrestling shows this past week, including competition, comparisons with one year back, Raw vs. Dynamite and how close it has become, and more.
  • It’s CMLL tournament of champions month starting this week
  • Anniversary shows at Arena Mexico and Arena Coliseo this week including a look back at the first show in each building
  • A look at the four title match show at ArenaMexico on Tuesday
  • A super hot match to watch on AAA
  • A look at Stardom’s biggest stipulation of the year and Yokohama Arena show
  • Current Tiger Mask retires
  • Best of the Super Junior tournament update
  • Largest crowd of the year for women’s wrestling in Japan
  • Hodge trophy winner looked at
  • Maple Leaf Wrestling announces new TV deal and a look at the weekend shows
  • Stabbing at a pro wrestling show
  • Very interesting political match will take place with TNA champion vs. AEW star
  • American gold medalist challenges UFC undefeated champion
  • Rebellion notes
  • Lots of injury updates and business notes
  • Wrestler complaining about AEW not booking them enough
  • Kenny Omega talks his and Kota Ibushi’s health
  • Brody King talks the chants
  • Tony Khan and his enemies
  • Kayla Harrison on why her next bantamweight fight will be her last and why she should never have fought at bantamweight to begin with
  • Crazy Dana White story
  • Will Mayweather-Pacquiao II take place and what are the issues
  • Fedor Emelianenko wants to return to combat next year
  • Nick Khan acquires TKO stock
  • Bret & Ross Hart talk Badnews Allen in WWE Hall of Fame

This Week’s Back Issue

FIRST TIME SUBSCRIBERS GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

Wednesday Update

Tony D'Angelo WWE NXT

WWE

  • WWE uploaded the full Tony D’Angelo, Joe Hendry, Ricky Saints & Ethan Page vs. DarkState eight-man tag match from NXT last night.
  • In an interview with former WWE wrestler Tyrus, Linda McMahon was asked if she’s considered running for president:
    • Oh my gosh, no. No, no, no, no. That is definitely not in my future. Definitely not. I’m very, very happy with what I’m doing. I’m very happy to be, you know – think about this – for me, a little girl from New Bern, North Carolina. I just grew up in a very humble, middle-class family, an only child, great parents. Just one of those wonderful childhood kind of things. But never dreamed, ever that I would be in the president’s cabinet. Let alone the opportunity to serve twice.
  • Liv Morgan shared a new picture showing that the swelling has gone down on her forehead bump after the injury she suffered on Raw. She still has bruising on her forehead and nose.
  • Sid Vicious’ son Gunnar Eudy noted on Facebook that, because his father is a Legacy inductee, his family will not be doing an acceptance speech at the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony:
    • There will be no acceptance speech because they are putting him in the legacy wing. We will just be in the crowd
    • We would have been honored to give a speech but at the same time I feel like his fans rather see a video package of him than two people talking that they don’t know
  • Charlotte Flair was a guest on Busted Open Radio today.
  • Complex’s Graps podcast interviewed Kit Wilson.

Other Wrestling

  • The Crash Lucha Libre issued a statement announcing that Alberto El Patron has been suspended from the promotion following his domestic violence arrest.
  • AEW’s social media highlighted Will Ospreay’s NJPW return at Sakura Genesis and post-show comments where Ospreay told United Empire that he could use some backup in his feud with Jon Moxley and the Death Riders.
  • Ahead of her return on tonight’s Dynamite, Queen Aminata was interviewed by Ian Riccaboni.
  • Aminata, who has been out of action for five months due to a neck injury, tweeted about tonight’s matchup against TBS Champion Willow Nightingale: “No pressure, no noise… just me proving to myself that I’m still that woman.”
  • Megan Bayne & Lena Kross joined Renee Paquette on a new episode of AEW Close Up.
  • On Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Paul Wight (Big Show) addressed his many face/heel turns and said he doesn’t think a giant like himself ever had to be World Champion:
    • Arn Anderson told me, ‘The dumbest thing you ever did is learn how to work.’ So any minute, I was able to be a good opponent for what we were doing. I knew that me, personally, I don’t think I should ever have been champion. You don’t need a giant to be a champion. You need a giant to be an obstacle for the upcoming champion. You need somebody, something, a wall, a mountain, something that has to be overcome so that the next talent can be on its way. There’s a damn good living to be made in that position. I think the last time I got the title was just because I had been five or six years in title matches all the time, hadn’t won the damn thing. ‘Well, he’s been in here while, we might want to put it on him, so get some validity out of it.’ But I was okay with that. I enjoyed that, because I look back at my career now, I got to help create some big, big stars. I was working early with Roman and working early with Cody. There are a lot of talents that I had a great [time with], Kofi and Woods and Cesaro. Big moment, Cesaro at WrestleMania, those are all good moments for me. I always understood that I’m not, and this is no way am I putting myself down. I’m not a leading man, I’m not Rock, I’m not Stone Cold. I’m not John Cena. I’m not the leading guy, I’m the funny sidekick, or I’m Thanos, the villain. That’s where I fall in, and that’s okay.
  • After posting several teasers that appear to be for new event dates, TNA indicated that an announcement is coming tomorrow at noon Eastern time.
  • TNA also shared a Rebellion-related teaser on social media.
  • NJPW President Hiroshi Tanahashi has joined the Japanese news and information show “News Okaeri” as a regular commentator, appearing every other Friday.
  • Ultimo Guerrero has been announced for MLW’s Fantastica Mania USA in Charleston, South Carolina this Sunday (April 12).
  • Elayna Black was a guest on the Battleground Podcast.
  • Las Vegas-based CYInterview spoke with Rob Van Dam ahead of WrestleMania week.

Daily Update: Cody Rhodes, Drew McIntyre, Persephone

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

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This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • A look back at the career of Dennis Condrey of Midnight Express fame
  • Update on WrestleMania, both the matches, business update the ticket demand at the present time
  • An updated look at AEW’s All In on 8/30 at Wembley Stadium as well as a look at the Dynasty show and ticket demand for the show
  • Coverage of El Homenaje a Dos Leyendas, CMLL’s second biggest show of the year, with El Satanico’s retirement at 76, The Death Riders appear, the heavyweight title changes hands and Mistico returns
  • A look at the NCAA Division I tournament including a look back 79 years when future pro wrestling legends dominated the heavyweight division and how it ties into the most recent tournament. We also look at the rivalry that could define college wrestling for years to come between a coach and his former pupil, a guy who was in high school in December and wins the NCAA title in March, as well business notes on the show, both attendance and television ratings
  • A look back at Sid Vicious, Badnews Allen and Dennis Rodman’s pro wrestling days
  • Trying to explain the latest controversy in television ratings and how this related to pro wrestling
  • How ratings differ from a sports survey about wrestling fans
  • The most complete look at the ratings for all the pro wrestling television shows over the past week,including competition, demos and comparisons with one year ago, as well as competition in the time slot.
  • Notes on CMLL talent coming to WrestleMania week
  • Major injury to arguably CMLL’s best worker
  • Notes on the 83rd anniversary of pro wrestling in one of its most famous arenas
  • Notes on tentative plans for a major mask vs. mask match
  • Callum Newman and Yuya Uemura tear it up in the New Japan Cup finals
  • Next major New Japan show thoughts with Ospreay’s returnh
  • Tanahashi talks goals to turn the company around
  • Kazusada Higuchi retirement notes
  • Thoughts on Satoru Sayama and his impact on pro wrestling
  • Aja Kongs 40th anniversary show
  • Gable Stevesn and RAF
  • Ted DiBiase Jr acquitted in his case
  • The end of CBS News Radio and what former WCW announcer was an anchor there
  • Notes on the announcing at the orignal When Worlds Collide AAA show
  • Lots of WrestleMania week show notes
  • FantasticaMania comes to the U.K.
  • Update on WBD sale to Paramount Skydance
  • Update on Revolution PPV buys
  • Jeff Jarrett becomes co-owner of a sports franchise
  • Jericho talks about working today
  • More on the Ali Revival Act
  • A list of a lot of PPV buy numbers for UFC
  • Ari Emanuel’s role in getting President Trump to stop the case against Ticketmaster/Live Nation.
  • WWE star training for a bodybuilding contest soon
  • Jesse Ventura rants but his timeline makes sense

This Week’s Back Issue

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Thursday Update

Drew McIntyre WWE
Drew McIntyre makes his WWE entrance.

WWE

  • Cody Rhodes is featured on the cover of the March/April 2026 edition of Cigar Aficionado magazine. He discussed how pro wrestling is a much healthier place financially than it used to be: 
    • I’m blessed that it’s so much healthier now, in a sense…Everyone’s getting paid more than wrestlers were ever getting paid, which means you can take care of yourself more than every wrestler ever. You can have that great nutritionist, have that great trainer.
  • On The Nikki & Brie Show, Rhodes said there are three episodes of his “What Do You Wanna Talk About?” podcast that will never be released because he was too drunk during the recording. They include interviews he conducted with Alexa Bliss and Big E:
    • I will apologize now. I’ve said this, so I’ll make no secret of it. I will apologize to Alexa Bliss, Big E, I’m not going to name the other one because she’ll go ham with it. But three of these episodes will never make it because of how deep those pours were.
    • It’s never their fault, it’s always my fault. I already have a lisp. So if you’re starting out that way and then you watch it, like, ‘I thought it was okay.’ It’s rough, it’s rough. So I wanted those to be better for them.
  • Drew McIntyre – who recently mourned the death of his cat Chaz – told Insight with Chris Van Vliet that he’ll never use the passing of CM Punk’s dog Larry as a way to get heat:
    • There’s one thing I never make fun of Punk for. When Larry was gone, my heart broke for him and AJ. Because those little guys are just full of love and nothing else.
  • Jacob Fatu and AEW’s Swerve Strickland were among those in attendance at this week’s training session at Nattie & TJ Wilson’s Dungeon. Nattie wrote about the four-hour practice:
    • Tonight was so fun! Another incredible week of work in The Dungeon. A four hour practice with 30 of my friends- pouring their heart, soul and SWEAT onto the mat. Energy matching energy. So proud of this group!
  • At Raw on Monday, Roman Reigns granted a Make-A-Wish by meeting a 12-year-old fan named Javion.
  • Sam Roberts has an interview with Wade Barrett.
  • Former college basketball stars The Cavinder Twins appeared on the latest episode of Stephanie McMahon’s “What’s Your Story?” podcast.
  • WWE’s YouTube channel uploaded the full John Cena vs. Rock matches from WrestleMania 28 and 29.

Other Wrestling

  • Thunder Rosa had high praise for Persephone while speaking with The Takedown on SI:
    • I’m just excited, I’m just excited for her present and for her future. That woman has worked her ass off and from many, many women that I’ve seen that came through Mission Pro, she was one of the ones who worked from the ground up to have the opportunities that she has in Mexico and in the United States.
    • And she hasn’t taken shortcuts, she keeps growing, she keeps learning and the one thing I love about her, she stays humble and she’s super professional. Something that I think is important in professional wrestling is to be professional and she’s one of those and I have so much respect for her.
  • Rosa added that she’s looking forward to an eventual match against Persephone:
    • And when the time comes for us to do this, I think it’s gonna be a banger because she’s mouthy, I’m mouthy, We have really good energy, we’re both from the border. She’s from El Paso, I’m from Tijuana, you know, so we both know what’s up.
    • Like I was saying earlier, if you were born in a border town, if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere. And as you can see, she was born in El Paso, she made it. I was born in Tijuana, I made it, so I know we can really, really do something amazing for everyone.
  • Shop AEW released a new Chris Jericho T-shirt and hoodie following his return.
  • Black Girl Wrestling interviewed Willow Nightingale.
  • After Taiji Ishimori & Robbie X retained the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team titles today, they were confronted by Kosei Fujita, who issued a challenge on behalf of himself and Robbie Eagles.
  • The Sportster interviewed TNA World Champion Mike Santana.
  • Santana acknowledged yesterday being the two-year anniversary of his AEW departure:
    • 2 years ago today, I was granted my release. I put a plan together for myself and began to execute. It was the best thing I did for my life and career. 
    • Idgaf how long it was going to take but I knew I was going to get sh*t done! I’ve sacrificed too much and after everything I went thru the last few years, I had a fire burning inside that I wasn’t going to let anything extinguish. But above all, my daughter gotta eat! And that she will, by any means! 
    • 2 years later, it’s amazing to see what I’ve been able to accomplish. It’s been such an amazing ride and to think that this is just the beginning, is so exciting. 
    • Follow your heart. That sh*t never lies.
  • Lance Storm looked back on his last-ever match, which was against Matt Hardy on this day in 2016:
    • 10 years ago today I had my final match. I glad this photo is from behind, it feels like a final goodbye. Thank you @matthardybrand
  • Wrestling legend Tully Blanchard recently got married for the third time.