The latest WWE and AEW News and Results
The Big Audio Nightmare has returned for episode 400!
Myself and Mike Sempervive are back to guide you through the pandemic affected Japanese wrestling scene including Wednesday’s breaking news from NJPW president Harold Meij on the roadmap for their return to the ring.
We also take a look at last week’s head scratching NOAH shows, another Masato Tanaka classic in DDT, and our NJPW archive rewatch of Bob Backlund vs Anotnio Inoki for the WWF Title from 1979.
The original alternate is back to take a look at the week that was in Japanese wrestling.
Topics include:
It’s the Adam and Mike Big Audio Nightmare — the show that is testing positive…FOR FUN!
DDT’s biggest event of the year, Wrestle Peter Pan, has been cancelled.
The company made the announcement this evening via social media. The statement said that due to the spread of COVID-19, the event would have to be canceled.
DDT is currently looking at alternative dates. President Sanshiro Takagi wrote on Twitter that a replacement date is undecided, but it will be held.
The event, which was scheduled for June 7 at the Saitama Super Arena, was to feature an appearance from Kenny Omega. He had been announced in late February, shortly before the spread of COVID-19.
Over the last few weeks, Japan has been dealing with a rapid increase of COVID-19 in the country. A nationwide state of emergency has been declared, with people being encouraged to stay at home.
As a result, a number of promotions have cancelled their upcoming schedules. AJPW earlier this month canceled the annual Champion Carnival tournament. Pro Wrestling NOAH announced this morning that all of their events for the month of May have been canceled as well.
Representatives from seven Japanese promotions joined together today to take part in a government meeting regarding how the coronavirus pandemic has affected the professional wrestling industry in Japan.
The meeting included representatives from NJPW, Stardom, AJPW, DDT, Pro Wrestling NOAH, Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling, and World Women’s Wrestling Diana. They met with Hiroshi Hase, the former pro wrestling star who now serves as Japan’s Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology.
Here’s the list of those who attended the meeting:
NJPW wrote that the representatives met with Hase “with the goal of presenting a request for coronavirus testing kits for wrestlers and staff in the industry, as well as support to cover pay for wrestlers as events have canceled under Japan’s current state of emergency in reaction to the virus.” The formal proposal is available below:
The current Novel Coronavirus pandemic has seriously affected the entire professional wrestling industry, including but not limited to Bushiroad Group members New Japan Pro-Wrestling and STARDOM.
Professional wrestling is a contact sport, and even matches without the public present is a dangerous undertaking in the current climate. We can not allow the flame of professional wrestling that has burned brightly in this country for over half a century to be exterminated.
Therefore, we hereby make the following requests:
1. Testing kits
While we understand that top priority for medical supplies must go to those in centers on the front lines of battling this disease, if at all possible, we request that kits may be supplied to test and protect wrestlers and staff within the industry.
2.Compensation for contracted wrestlers
Not only the wrestlers under contract in our group of companies, but those in the industry at large are designated as contractors whose livelihood is therefore threatened by not being able to perform in the current climate. We ask that contracted wrestlers be met with benefits and protections befitting of full time employees.
“This formal proposal has my name signed at the bottom, but the issues covered are ones that affect the entire professional wrestling industry as well as all of sports and live entertainment,” Kidani said. “I hope that it will be accepted as such.”
NJPW’s article about the meeting said that Hase received the proposal before seeking the opinion of the wrestlers who were there. Hiroshi Tanahashi said:
While events have been canceled, our wrestlers have been training diligently and maintaining their focus for an eventual return. Yes, not being able to wrestle does make a lot of us concerned for our livelihoods, but in the world of sports, be that baseball, soccer, or sumo, I feel that professional wrestling should be the anchor. I think it should be acceptable for professional wrestling to be the last sport to return to full activity. I want people to know that when professional wrestling is back, then and only then it means truly that Japanese entertainment has properly recovered.
Mayu Iwatani said:
On a personal note, on February 19, I was scheduled to have a birthday party event, which was canceled. On March 8, we streamed a live event with no fans in Korakuen Hall, but since then there have been cancellations after cancellations. We list our occupations as professional wrestlers, but to not have matches is, of course, incredibly frustrating. If we have access to testing kits for wrestlers and staff, it can put minds at ease and help us return to active duty. Rather than sitting and waiting for an unclear point in the future, to be able to take some kind of action like we’re doing today is something I’m extremely grateful for. I hope this can help the entire industry come back strong.
The sports board representative spoke about precautions sports have taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and about a fundraising system where ticket refunds can be given back to organizations as a tax deductible donation. Hase was also quoted as saying:
Thank you to the representatives of the professional wrestling industry for sharing their plight, as well as for the explanations from official bodies today. There are measures we can enact to assist enterprises, promotions and wrestlers during these times, and I would like to continue to discuss them further. This situation will not last forever. Speedy and accurate testing, effective treatment and medicinal development are all things the whole world is working together on. Professional wrestling has a huge and very important role in raising the flag of victory over COVID-19. I ask all staff members and all wrestlers to keep working to be in the best shape possible to spread joy to the fans with incredible matches very soon.
NJPW has canceled their events through May 4, including both Wrestling Dontaku events.
“In response to the continuing Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, and in light of state of emergency measures across Japan announced on April 7, New Japan Pro-Wrestling has arrived at the decision to cancel all events that were scheduled up to and including Wrestling Dontaku 2020 on May 3 & 4” the company wrote on their English language website.
The statement also said that NJPW is exploring the possibility of presenting matches without fans in attendance. However, that would only happen if “staff and wrestler health and safety can be protected to the highest possible standard.”
NJPW has not ran a show since February 26, a New Japan Road event in Okinawa. They have previously canceled their events for the entire month of March and a portion of April, including the entire New Japan Cup tournament and the Sakura Genesis event that was scheduled for March 31.
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Tuesday announced a month-long state of emergency for Tokyo and six other prefectures as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
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Are you interested in attending our annual F4W/WON convention? We will hold it during AEW Double or Nothing weekend. For more information, check this post for activities and prices.
WON NEWSLETTER: April 6, 2020 Observer Newsletter: Florida lockdown, WrestleMania preview
A look at plans for AEW and WWE tapings, the guidelines set forth by Donald Trump, how both companies violated them, and why UFC simply can’t adhere to them is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.
It’s a news-packed issue giving the full background of WrestleMania including the dollars lost by WWE in doing the show the way they did, why the reasons for doing it now make no sense, who was taken off the show and why, what key thing that relates to both fighting and pro wrestling that makes certain people higher risk that everyone is ignoring, where the WWE medical staff failed at their jobs with Roman Reigns and others, the WWE’s false advertising, Reigns speaks on why he didn’t do the show, Brie Bella talks on why she had mixed feelings on Daniel Bryan doing the show, plus a match-by-match rundown with thoughts on everything.
The new issue also covers:
The changes in WrestleMania business, why what seems to make no sense has a long-term thought process but where it may be flawed, why WWE flooded television with product this week and why it’s dangerous not to keep this up.
The falling apart of the Tony Ferguson vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov fight, what Nurmagomedov and Dana White said this week as well Tony Ferguson’s demands ad who else was in contention for top spots on the show. Joe Rogan also talks why he’s not doing the show no matter what, as well as the reaction of the other leading groups while UFC insists on going forward.
The hidden story that nobody has talked about regarding a pro wrestling event where the coronavirus has already spread.
New WWE television deals, a major WWE deal ends and why. What WWE stars head the most popular YouTube shows, Canadian TV ratings, U.K. TV ratings, Drew McIntyre talks WrestleMania, Seth Rollins talks operating a small business during these times, Edge talks about how he’s improved his promos, WWE market value plus the most-watched shows of the past week on the WWE network.
The Japanese scene, who is still running, who isn’t, what shows were canceled last minute as well as the state of sports in Japan and South Korea.
Six months from now or longer, when people are allowed to go to live entertainment events who things may change greatly and who is hurts the most.
Live attendance, television numbers the future of television and streaming and how it also affects the smaller groups.
DAZN’s decision to withhold payments to sorts leagues and what that says about its future.
Update the arrest of Jon Jones, with details on his plea bargain, what happened when he was stopped, the government’s reaction to Jones, both officers and their report as well as Jones’ reaction to what happened.
A look back at the 2019 Wrestling Observer awards with comments on a number of categories, who was and wasn’t deserving, the closest categories, and more on winners and close placings.
A feature on the life and career of Dean Silverstone, a former promoter and historian who was one of the key people in keeping wrestlers from the past in touch with each other through the Cauliflower Alley Club. We look at his role in wrestling, how he first got into wrestling, his promotion, his book, life after wrestling and how he got back into wrestling through his wife and ripper Collins.
Full coverage of all the WWE and AEW television shows from the past week.
In-depth looks at the ratings of all the major shows, the key demos and quarters for AEW and WWE, what happened head-to-head and what can be learned from them.
Results of all the major pro wrestling events around the world over the past week.
ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to [email protected] or by going to www.paypal.com directing funds to [email protected].
Rates in the United States are $14.50 for 4 issues, $35.50 for 12, $70 for 24, $116 for 40 and $149.50 for 52.
In Canada and Mexico, the rates are $16 for 4, $27 for 8, $38.50 for 12, $76 for 24, $126 for 40 and $162.50 for 52.
For the rest of the world, rates are $18 for 4, $48.50 for 12, $93 for 24, $155 for 40 and $201.50 for 52.
If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order to P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228, you can get $1 off in every price range.
Bryan and I will be back tonight talking Raw, more from WrestleMania and UFC 249. You can send questions to the show to [email protected]. We’re also looking for your thoughts on both nights of WrestleMania. We have polls for last night show and another for tonight’s show, thumbs up, down or in the middle, best and worst match to [email protected]
For the weekend, the WrestleMania/combat sports Google search trends were:
Saturday:
Sunday
Monday
The Sunday WrestleMania number is shockingly small. This would indicate mainstream interest on Sunday in particular wasn’t there at all as all of Mania got the same number as the announcement today of UFC 249. Rob Gronkowski not making even the top 20 is also a surprise just with the ESPN coverage.
WWE did not announce a network number today, as they had in the past the day after Mania. It was known they wouldn’t because they stopped when numbers started declining. They did announce that WrestleMania had 13.8 million social media interactions between Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, up 57 percent from last year and the most in history. Eventually when PPV numbers and network numbers come out, we will likely see how worthless that stat actually is.
We’re now at the point where WWE & UFC are following the AEW lead of secret location shows going forward. UFC announced a secret location show, believed to be on the West Coast, for 4/18 with Tony Ferguson vs. Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title as the main event. In fairness, this has a great chance of being a fight of the year candidate.
There is belief in Japan that a state of emergency will be declared in the next 48-72 hours. The Governor of Tokyo has already said she wants to cancel all entertainment events, which would ban even empty arena shows from Tokyo. From what we’re told, if that order is carried through, it would apply to venues, such as Korakuen Hall, Ota Ward Gym, Shinkiba and other places, but there is a loophole and that companies could still do dojo shows from their home gyms.
If you’ve never seen Do FIXER vs. Blood Generation from ROH Supercard of Honor 2006, a forerunner of the style that has come to the U.S., and the match that won the 2006 match of the year award is being put up for free by ROH on its YouTube page tonight at 9 p.m. Eastern.
Daily Pro Wrestling History: WWE WrestleMania 30
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All Japan Pro Wrestling’s Champion Carnival tournament will not go on as scheduled.
It was announced today that the tournament will not be taking place in April due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. It was scheduled to start on April 6 at Korakuen Hall, with the finals taking place on May 5 at the same arena.
The president of AJPW, Tsuyoki Fukuda, said in the press conference announcing the cancellation that he will “make every possible effort” to run the tournament this year.
Before the cancellation, a number of changes were already being made due to the fast moving nature of the pandemic. Davey Boy Smith Jr., Lucas Steel, and Joel Redman were all previously announced for the tournament. However, they were pulled following travel restrictions imposed by the Japanese government.
The Champion Carnival tournament has been held every year since 1991, with the tournament originally starting in 1973. Kento Miyahara won last year’s tournament, defeating Jake Lee in the finals.
The Big Audio Nightmare is back this week with continuing coverage of COVID-19’s impact on the world of professional wrestling in Japan and on all of our lives in general.
In this week’s full show, Adam Summers and Mike Sempervive take you through the latest wrestling news in Japan like what shows are happening, what shows have been canceled, and what may lie ahead.
The guys also take a look at the very noteworthy AJPW and STARDOM shows at Korakuen Hall, while tentatively looking forward this weekend’s empty arena Pro Wrestling NOAH show and much more.
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Are you interested in attending our annual F4W/WON convention? We will hold it during AEW Double or Nothing weekend. For more information, check this post for activities and prices.
WON NEWSLETTER: Sweeping changes due to the coronavirus Dave Meltzer looks at how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting pro wrestling and MMA.
A detailed look at how the pro wrestling and MMA industry has changed in just one week is the subject of our in-depth lead story.
We cover:
Steps taken, made, executed, and constantly changed, from WWE, UFC, AEW and every other company.
Which companies can afford the lockdown the best, and which companies are threatened the most.
WWE, why they chose to do WrestleMania now on tape, why the move made little sense.
Why UFC was forced to shut down shows and the steps they took to avoid it.
What AEW said and what it actually meant.
The dangers from doctors on doing shows right now.
Latest ideas for WrestleMania, revenue lost by not doing the show now, just how fast decisions were changing, pro wrestling vs. MMA in an empty arena, styles vs. styles in an empty arena, what does and doesn’t work, ideas to make the show more entertaining, what is and isn’t finalized for WrestleMania, and update on other planned WWE events.
We also cover:
WWE training, who were brought to the WWE & AEW taping, what was said to those working there, Dana White’s memo to the staff, why UFC had it harder to keep shows going than pro wrestling, UFC’s economic realities, different reactions of talent about shows continuing, new dates for major shows, next shows on UFC schedule, ESPN plans, Japanese government reaction, updates on Japanese shows, XFL ending the season, how the first season leaves the XFL in its quest to make it, Bellator’s reaction, MLW’s reaction, Impact’s reaction, NWA’s reaction, Independent shows, WrestleCon, U.K. groups, Mexico and other U.S. indies.
AEW’s live television show, the in and out of character remarks, Cody and Tony Khan’ reactions, and show things were handled
A look at the career of Jushin Liger, his historical status, his early career, his becoming the best wrestler in the world, his debut with the character, who was first pegged for the role, his debut with the gimmick, his U.S. arrival in WCW, his one MMA fight, and his list of credentials.
Why WWE stock hasn’t collapsed, Shane McMahon’s income, Michelle Wilson and George Barrios’ severance packages, update on The Revival, WWE threatens small group on a frivolous case, WWE legend selling his home, last several weeks of Canadian TV ratings, Jerry Lawler talks empty arena matches, latest WWE tryout, Sonya Deville talks storyline she wanted, as well as the most-watched shows of the past week on the WWE Network.
Full coverage of the UFC’s empty arena show in Brasilia, Brazil with the stories coming out of the show and match-by-match coverage.
A feature on the worst weekend in the history of the business when Chris Benoit murdered his wife and son. We look at the Reelz television show that just came out covering the crime as well as a look at the Viceland story coming this week. We talk about different theories, the death of Eddy Guerrero, CTE, steroids, xanax and more, WWE reaction, drug testing questions and problems and much more.
Regarding the Wednesday numbers, we’ve got full details, demos that each side won, how every segment did and what match ended up as the difference maker.
Full coverage of all the WWE and AEW television shows from the past week.
In-depth looks at the ratings of all the major shows, the key demos and quarters for AEW and WWE, what happened head-to-head and what can be learned from them.
Results of all the major pro wrestling events around the world over the past week.
ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to [email protected] or by going to www.paypal.com directing funds to [email protected].
Rates in the United States are $14.50 for 4 issues, $35.50 for 12, $70 for 24, $116 for 40 and $149.50 for 52.
In Canada and Mexico, the rates are $16 for 4, $27 for 8, $38.50 for 12, $76 for 24, $126 for 40 and $162.50 for 52.
For the rest of the world, rates are $18 for 4, $48.50 for 12, $93 for 24, $155 for 40 and $201.50 for 52.
If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order to P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228, you can get $1 off in every price range.
Bryan and I will be back tonight talking about various wrestling subjects, WWE, AEW, Japan wrestling starting back and more with Wrestling Observer Radio. We’ll also be taking questions for the show to [email protected]
The WWE did tapings at Full Sail University yesterday for NXT so they will be doing new matches. Raw will be taped for the next three weeks today and tomorrow at the Performance Center.
AEW will be doing a lot of taping on Wednesday. It’s a new show with Cody vs. Jimmy Havoc and Kenny Omega vs. Sammy Guevara for the AAA heavyweight title. Given the restrictions on people allowed to be together, it is impossible to do a lumberjack match as had been advertised with Wardlow vs. Luchasaurus.
Aleister Black vs. Bobby Lashley and Street Profits defending the tag titles against Andrade & Angel Garza were announced for WrestleMania.
Regarding talent traveling to Japan from the U.K. or U.S. or Mexico, talent can come in but they have to be quarantined for 14 days in a hotel or a home when they arrive. Davey Boy Smith Jr., for example, flies out tomorrow morning for the Champion Carnival tour and will have to stay in a hotel for 14 days. The flip side is the risk that if he goes, he may not be allowed to return. He said that he really likes Japanese culture and has friends there, so if it happens, he’s okay.
Ricky Morton on his podcast noted that he had woken up on 3/17 with a bout of Bell’s Palsy. He was very scared, but he can shut his eyes and talk and it is clearing up.
Daily Pro Wrestling History: Bret Hart vs. Steve Austin at WrestleMania 13
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Despite Japanese wrestling slowly starting to come back amid the coronavirus pandemic, New Japan Wrestling announced Monday that both the Sakura Genesis and Road to Dontaku events have been canceled.
The Sakura Genesis show was slated for Tuesday, March 31st at Sumo Hall while the Dontaku show was set for Saturday, April 11th in Sagamihara.
A statement read: “We deeply apologise to fans who were looking forward to these events. Ultimately, the health and safety of our fans, wrestlers and staff, as well as society at large is our utmost concern, and we will make announcements about events scheduled after April 11 upon careful monitoring of this developing situation.”
New Japan’s March schedule was canceled due to the pandemic which included the New Japan Cup and their 48th anniversary show. Their last event was a New Japan Road event on February 26th.
Pro Wrestling NOAH returned to action Saturday while Stardom is holding a one-night show at Korakuen Hall this Tuesday on their YouTube channel.
Latest News:
Latest Audio:
Are you interested in attending our annual F4W/WON convention? We will hold it during AEW Double or Nothing weekend. For more information, check this post for activities and prices.
WON NEWSLETTER: Sweeping changes due to the coronavirus Dave Meltzer looks at how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting pro wrestling and MMA.
A detailed look at how the pro wrestling and MMA industry has changed in just one week is the subject of our in-depth lead story.
We cover:
Steps taken, made, executed, and constantly changed, from WWE, UFC, AEW and every other company.
Which companies can afford the lockdown the best, and which companies are threatened the most.
WWE, why they chose to do WrestleMania now on tape, why the move made little sense.
Why UFC was forced to shut down shows and the steps they took to avoid it.
What AEW said and what it actually meant.
The dangers from doctors on doing shows right now.
Latest ideas for WrestleMania, revenue lost by not doing the show now, just how fast decisions were changing, pro wrestling vs. MMA in an empty arena, styles vs. styles in an empty arena, what does and doesn’t work, ideas to make the show more entertaining, what is and isn’t finalized for WrestleMania, and update on other planned WWE events.
We also cover:
WWE training, who were brought to the WWE & AEW taping, what was said to those working there, Dana White’s memo to the staff, why UFC had it harder to keep shows going than pro wrestling, UFC’s economic realities, different reactions of talent about shows continuing, new dates for major shows, next shows on UFC schedule, ESPN plans, Japanese government reaction, updates on Japanese shows, XFL ending the season, how the first season leaves the XFL in its quest to make it, Bellator’s reaction, MLW’s reaction, Impact’s reaction, NWA’s reaction, Independent shows, WrestleCon, U.K. groups, Mexico and other U.S. indies.
AEW’s live television show, the in and out of character remarks, Cody and Tony Khan’ reactions, and show things were handled
A look at the career of Jushin Liger, his historical status, his early career, his becoming the best wrestler in the world, his debut with the character, who was first pegged for the role, his debut with the gimmick, his U.S. arrival in WCW, his one MMA fight, and his list of credentials.
Why WWE stock hasn’t collapsed, Shane McMahon’s income, Michelle Wilson and George Barrios’ severance packages, update on The Revival, WWE threatens small group on a frivolous case, WWE legend selling his home, last several weeks of Canadian TV ratings, Jerry Lawler talks empty arena matches, latest WWE tryout, Sonya Deville talks storyline she wanted, as well as the most-watched shows of the past week on the WWE Network.
Full coverage of the UFC’s empty arena show in Brasilia, Brazil with the stories coming out of the show and match-by-match coverage.
A feature on the worst weekend in the history of the business when Chris Benoit murdered his wife and son. We look at the Reelz television show that just came out covering the crime as well as a look at the Viceland story coming this week. We talk about different theories, the death of Eddy Guerrero, CTE, steroids, xanax and more, WWE reaction, drug testing questions and problems and much more.
Regarding the Wednesday numbers, we’ve got full details, demos that each side won, how every segment did and what match ended up as the difference maker.
Full coverage of all the WWE and AEW television shows from the past week.
In-depth looks at the ratings of all the major shows, the key demos and quarters for AEW and WWE, what happened head-to-head and what can be learned from them.
Results of all the major pro wrestling events around the world over the past week.
ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to [email protected] or by going to www.paypal.com directing funds to [email protected].
Rates in the United States are $14.50 for 4 issues, $35.50 for 12, $70 for 24, $116 for 40 and $149.50 for 52.
In Canada and Mexico, the rates are $16 for 4, $27 for 8, $38.50 for 12, $76 for 24, $126 for 40 and $162.50 for 52.
For the rest of the world, rates are $18 for 4, $48.50 for 12, $93 for 24, $155 for 40 and $201.50 for 52.
If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order to P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228, you can get $1 off in every price range.
Bryan and I will be back tonight talking about various wrestling subjects, WWE, AEW, Japan wrestling starting back and more with Wrestling Observer Radio. We’ll also be taking questions for the show to [email protected].
I did a show last night with Garrett Gonzalez, talking everything going on with pro wrestling and MMA, Friday’s Smackdown, WrestleMania card updates as well as the Dark Side of the Ring episode on Chris Benoit.
Probably a good story to look at regarding why sports events have been closed down. And earlier today there was an K-1 event held in Saitama Super Arena and drew a huge crowd. Japan also is having a public gathering of 50,000 people for the Olympic flame. To say these three stories I’ve read this morning within five minutes are concerning is an understatement.
WWE was taping NXT shows today at the Performance Center. They are taping a few weeks of Raw, including the Raw after WrestleMania, over the next two days, and then taping WrestleMania on Wednesday and Thursday. AEW is taping on Wednesday. The show has Cody vs. Jimmy Havoc, a face-to-face with Matt Hardy and Chris Jericho, Luchasaurus vs Wardlow and Best Friends vs Pentagon Jr. & Rey Fenix in a street fight. No word on if they will tape more than one show this week.
As you can imagine, there has been nothing all week from combat sports that cracked the most searched stories on Google other than the death of Roger Mayweather, the uncle and former trainer of Floyd, at the age of 58 on Thursday. The change in WrestleMania did not register to the general public as a story.
Today’s Dragon Gate show is up in English, an empty arena show that people are saying was the best empty arena show to date.
Daily Pro Wrestling History: Dutch Mantel wins Southern title from Jerry Lawler
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UFC runs tomorrow night in Brasilia, Brazil, with no fans allowed. It is moving up in time and the entire card will air on ESPN because ESPN has no other live sports to air, starting at 3 p.m. Eastern
Lee missed weight by 2.5 pounds. Oliveira agreed to take the fight. Lee forfeits 20 percent of his purse for missing weight.
CMLL at Arena Mexico tonight on the CMLL YouTube page
Are you interested in attending our annual F4W/WON convention? We will hold it during AEW Double or Nothing weekend. For more information, check this post for activities and prices.
WON NEWSLETTER: Coronavirus cancellations, Rob Gronkowski, more Coronavirus effects on wrestling, Rob Gronkowski to WWE, more.
A story on the Corona Virus and pro wrestling and MMA shows around the world is the lead story in a double-issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter this week.
We go through:
Where everything stood at press time for large and small promotions all over the world, as well as other sports.
Which companies can survive this period the best and how this threatens the future of many companies and wrestlers, a well as WWE and other name indie talent that likely can’t be coming to the U.S. because of travel bans.
This is one of the biggest stories to have faced the world in our lifetime, and it affects every business, but sports and entertainment businesses, like all, will take an unforeseen shock.
The issue also covers:
Rob Gronkowski and WWE, what is believed to be the extent of the deal, who is Gronkowski, his prior experience in WWE, what he had said about doing pro wrestling in the past and what kind of impact his being in WWE could have.
The series of copycat lawsuits filed by a number of legal firms against WWE, the claims in the cases and a response by Jerry McDevitt to the cases.
The situation with David Starr being pressured out of wXw and Progress, the attempt to unionize wrestlers in the U.K. and companies that have jumped on board.
Full coverage of the Elimination Chamber show with notes on the show, updated plans for WrestleMania, business notes and match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results.
Update WWE PPV talks, Davey Boy Smith in Hall of Fame, salary of WWE’s top executives, the change in Paul Levesque’s backstage role, how talent contracts have changed, who owns the most WWE stock, XFL ratings and how this week changed the narrative, Cena movie delayed by a year of release due to Corona Virus, Rousey in WWE offices, change that was made in Friday tapings, Canadian ratings, UFC star talks about doing WWE, injury updates, more on a new athlete that just started, plus he most-watched shows on the WWE Network and details of all NXT & WWE arena events over the past week.
An extensive feature on Wayne Bridges, one of the biggest names in European pro wrestling during the 70s and 80s. We look at his sports background before pro wrestling, how he could into pro wrestling, his unique role in some major movies, his Japanese tours and his time in North America, the history of the world heavyweight title as recognized in the U.K., plus his biggest run as world heavyweight champion, appearing on the big Wembley and Royal Albert Hall shows, tragedies in his life and much more. This is a great history piece about an era of pro wrestling that a lot of U.S. fans aren’t aware of.
Complete coverage of UFC 248, including the show, what happens next, the judging, who the media thought won the key fights, and business notes.
Oregon wrestling in the 80s and its top heel, Rip “The Crippler” Oliver, who passed away last week. We look at the atmosphere when he first arrived, his life and career before Oregon, his attempts to leave and why he always ended up back, his records set, biggest feuds, extensive title history, the 1982 tag team tournament at the Omni in Atlanta,Billy Jack Haynes, Roddy Piper, Buddy Rose and the death of the Don Owen territory.
Update the situation with Scott Steiner.
End of an era, as after 41 years, Stu Sacks leaves Pro Wrestling Illustrated and a career in wrestling journalism that goes back 50 years to his childhood.
Regarding the Wednesday numbers, we’ve got full details, demos that each side won, how every segment did and what match ended up as the difference maker.
All the WWE and AEW television shows from the past week.
In-depth looks at the ratings of all the major shows, the key demos and quarters for AEW and WWE, what happened head-to-head and what can be learned from them.
Results of all the major pro wrestling events around the world over the past week.
ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to [email protected] or by going to www.paypal.com directing funds to [email protected].
Rates in the United States are $14.50 for 4 issues, $35.50 for 12, $70 for 24, $116 for 40 and $149.50 for 52.
In Canada and Mexico, the rates are $16 for 4, $27 for 8, $38.50 for 12, $76 for 24, $126 for 40 and $162.50 for 52.
For the rest of the world, rates are $18 for 4, $48.50 for 12, $93 for 24, $155 for 40 and $201.50 for 52.
If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order to P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228, you can get $1 off in every price range.
At this point, as far as major sports and sports entertainment events on television, it looks like UFC and pro wrestling are the few things still happening.
WWE has officially moved tonight and Monday’s Raw show to the Performance Center. While they have not announced a move of Wednesday’s show there, Full Sail has closed the building until the end of April and we are told that they are going with the idea that the Performance Center will be the site of NXT every Wednesday with no fans allowed for at least the next month.
The City of Jacksonville has closed down all city facilities, which includes Daily’s Place and sent out a tweet about an hour ago confirming that. As of 6:30 p.m., AEW was still planning to run empty arena shows at Daily’s Place probably for the next month at least, since the 4/1 show in Milwaukee and 4/8 show in St. Louis have been canceled. As of this writing, the shows are still being taped every Wednesday in a closed set. Originally they were going to have media and families allowed but not fans, but AEW confirmed to us earlier today that no media will be allowed to attend.
It would really make sense if they can do a show to tape all day and try and get 2-3 shows in the can as possible because even if they can get the first event in, things can get worse. While a taped show isn’t optimum, at this stage of the game one has to prepare for the worst. Really that goes for WWE as well. It’s probably best to tape a second show on Monday and Wednesday.
The WWE 3/22 Madison Square Garden show has not been canceled by WWE but with New York not allowing gatherings of more than 500 people, the show can’t take place.
Pro wrestling relies so much on crowd response. In the early days of Ultimate Fighter they aired fights with no crowds and even no announcers. It wasn’t like watching a modern show but it did work in the early years of that show and right now options are limited.
There is nothing official on WrestleMania as of this moment. There were stories going around regarding a new date at the stadium in June earlier today. I can’t imagine the show taking place on April 5 although at this moment it is still on and key people have told me today that they believe it will take place in the stadium that day. Those in the company are pretty emphatic there will be a WrestleMania this year.
There has been heavy criticism of UFC for still running. There has been less on WWE since it falls below the radar and really none on AEW.
A number of Mania week independent events are still on. If WWE cancels, it’ll fall apart. While WWE can survive the hit, a lot of companies can’t.
Michael Bochiccio of Highspots did a video Q&A and said the convention has not been canceled due to the liability he would assume by doing so on their own. He said just hotel rooms if he were to cancel would bankrupt WrestleCon and perhaps HighSpots as well. He told Vice that if the convention falls through he would have to sell his house.
Bryan and my show has been canceled for WrestleMania week.
There is nothing new from Japan at all. At this point the 3/31 show at Sumo Hall for New Japan is on and All Japan is to start back 3/23. Obviously that is all subject to change.
Mexico is running events, including the MLW taping tonight in Tijuana. Arena Mexico is running as planned on its regular full schedule at this point, but as we’ve seen in this country, things can change quickly.
We will be taping a show later today with Dr. Alex Patel, a reader and critical care physician heavily involved in COVID-19 planning efforts in Canada. I also spoke at length with one of the leading sports doctors in the country who has been in the trenches of this story for a long time because of its potential impact on the Olympic games.
Regarding AEW & NXT ratings on Wednesday, both were down similarly in the first hour. For reasons I can’t explain, after the NBA news broke, AEW dropped significantly, as one would expect. NXT didn’t drop at all, and I have no explanation for that.
Daily Pro Wrestling History: TNA Victory Road 2011
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The Big Audio Nightmare is back this week with breaking news coverage of Stardom’s cancellation of their upcoming tour due to coronavirus concerns, as well as the precautions NJPW is taking.
In this week’s solo voyage, Adam Summers also takes you through the wrestling news in Japan, including an incredibly unique match of the year candidate from this past weekend’s NOAH show, a preview of this week’s NJPW shows, and the excitement about the AJPW Champion Carnival lineup.
Get all this and much more on the Big Audio Nightmare.
We are back with a very special and long-awaited episode of Wrestling Observer Radio: the Q&A session prior to Wrestle Kingdom 14 with Dave Meltzer and Fumi Saito.
This was recorded January 4, 2020, at Toudoukan, a combat sports store in Japan with a focus on pro wrestling, MMA, and even some boxing. With two stories of merchandise like figures, rare autographs, ring quality masks, title belts, ring work gear and much more, Dave compares it to Disneyland for pro wrestling fans.
Dave and Fumi spent a little under an hour answering questions about New Japan, AEW, influential foreign stars, WCW, Ring of Honor, and more. You’ll also hear Fumi translate some of the questions and answers in Japanese for some local fans.
It was a great event and we owe a big thanks to Wrestling Travel for putting it on and all of the fans who came out. I know Dave, Fumi and I really enjoyed meeting all of you and hopefully we can do something like this again.
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F4W NEWSLETTER: Recapping WWE TLC 2019 Joseph Currier gives his thoughts on WWE’s final PPV of the decade.
WWE’s final pay-per-view of the decade took place on Sunday night and exemplified some of the changes we’ve seen over the past 10 years.
TLC 2019 was very much a B-level PPV in the WWE Network era. Not only were the top men’s and women’s singles titles from each brand not defended, there were no singles titles on the line at all. Seth Rollins vs. Kevin Owens and AJ Styles vs. Randy Orton seemed like they were being built up as non-title matches that would help anchor the card, but they didn’t end up getting added. The show even ended with an angle instead of a match. After Asuka & Kairi Sane’s tables, ladders, and chairs match against Becky Lynch & Charlotte Flair, a locker room brawl that featured Roman Reigns and Baron Corbin continued. The image that closed the show was Reigns spearing Corbin from an elevated area onto a pile of bodies. It felt like the ending of an episode of Raw or SmackDown instead of a major event.
Current subscribers click here to continue reading.
WON NEWSLETTER: December 23, 2019 Observer Newsletter: TLC and Final Battle reviews, more
We’ve got complete coverage of the last series of major shows held around the world in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer, as well as bios on a number of wrestlers who have passed away in recent weeks.The new issue also covers:
TLC, focusing on the behind-the-scenes of the Kairi Sane situation, who knew,when did they know, the channels where the ball was dropped and what can and needs to be learned from it. We note the business of the event, the U.S. popularity levels, plus have match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results.
Exactly how AEW was formed, including what match made Tony Khan feel opposition was viable and what conversation with what major person in television made it happen, as well as who was contacted first to be part of it. We also have the story from the market rep who got Bullet Club shirts into Hot Topic.
DVR numbers for pro wrestling shows right now as well as how meaningful they are and what it says about audiences. We also look at how and why the dynamic of how people watch wrestling on Wednesdays has changed over the past several weeks. We also look at wrestling viewership in Canada.
Big names who have signed new WWE deals and a major name who has not, a WWE overseas TV deal, how many people buy WWE video games, pro wrestling offers to Daniel Cormier, Cain Velasquez’s next WWE show, the story behind Chelsea Green and Deonna Purrazzo on Raw and what it means short and long-term, a reboot of a WWE tag team, new feuds being started in WWE, most-watched shows on the WWE Network, WWE stock value and a look at all the WWE & NXT shows held over the past week with business notes and highlights.
UFC 245, with business notes, notes about the fighters who elevated their games, the title picture, plus match-by-match coverage.
ROH as it goes into 2020, who is going, who is staying, what is unknown, what kind of deals are being offered plus Final Battle coverage, with business notes, poll results, match-by-match coverage and star ratings.
AAA Guerra de Titanes, the creation of the new top stable, the debut of Sin Cara, thoughts and problems with the new name he’s using and more.
A bio on Randy Colley, best known as Moondog Rex, including his legal issues with WWE, what happened with the fans that ruined what would have been his biggest career break, other gimmicks he had, the birth of the Moondog gimmick and his biggest matches.
NWA, its YouTube numbers, its television tapings direction for the next several weeks, its net PPV show, as well as coverage of its Into the Fire show with poll results.
2019 cable numbers for the stations that carry pro wrestling and MMA and what they mean.
Notes on the career of Alberto Munoz, who was supposed to become a legend, and what happened in 1973 that ended that dream.
Dragon Gate’s Final Gate show with coverage of the event.
A personal look at how a law that was poorly thought out will affect reporters and web sites that use people from California and how adhering to it will make it nearly impossible for anyone in the state to start out in the field, and for the vast majority who work for publications outside the state, to likely lose their jobs.
The life of Scottish Hall of Famer Andy Robin, and his protege, Hercules the Bear.
Regarding the Wednesday numbers, we’ve got full details, demos that each side won, how every segment did and what match ended up as the difference maker.
Full coverage of all the WWE and AEW television shows from the past week.
In-depth looks at the ratings of all the major shows, the key demos and quarters for AEW and WWE, what happened head-to-head and what can be learned from them.
Results of all the major pro wrestling events around the world over the past week.
Current subscribers click here to read.
ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to [email protected] or by going to www.paypal.com directing funds to [email protected].
Rates in the United States are $14.50 for 4 issues, $35.50 for 12, $70 for 24, $116 for 40 and $149.50 for 52.
In Canada and Mexico, the rates are $16 for 4, $27 for 8, $38.50 for 12, $76 for 24, $126 for 40 and $162.50 for 52.
For the rest of the world, rates are $18 for 4, $48.50 for 12, $93 for 24, $155 for 40 and $201.50 for 52.
If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order to P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228, you can get $1 off in every price range.
We have a show that I did yesterday with Garrett Gonzalez and Patric Laprade, talking Hall of Fame, Rene Goulet, Wednesday nights and what we’ve learned from recent weeks and more. Garrett Gonzalez and I are doing a show today. One of the topics will be 2020 wrestling. If you’ve got any questions on that topic send to [email protected]
I’m doing a show and a meet and greet at Toudoukan in Tokyo at 11 a.m. on 1/4, several hours prior to the first of the two Tokyo Dome shows. I’ll just tell you this, if you are going to Japan, whether you want to see the show or not, you need to go to Touduokan’s. Ticket info is here. Jim Valley and I will also be doing a podcast from Toudoukan.
Regarding Sanada, we haven’t gotten an update from anyone past it being downplayed to us. New Japan hasn’t announced any injury or card changes yet, although Bushi beating Zack Sabre Jr. yesterday came out of nowhere and feels like a backup plan. Sanada missed yesterday’s show with what was called a head injury.
The Kevin Nash pulling out of the Jericho Cruise over doing a movie is legit. He got a good part in an upcoming Alec Baldwin movie. There were people questioning the reason.
Rey Fenix missing PWG over transportation issues was legit. His flight out of Mexico City to Tijuana was delayed. The hope was until late in the show that he could make it, but traffic issues on Friday night made it impossible. David Starr ended up working twice and replaced Fenix in a match with Jonathan Gresham.
Daily Pro Wrestling History: Rikidozan becomes Japanese Heavyweight Champion
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