Tag: khabib nurmagamedov

Daily Update: UFC 257 fallout, Khabib, WWE notes

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

DAILY UPDATE

Latest News:

Latest Audio:

JOB LISTING: Web/UI Developer(s)

  • Experience with OnLamp (Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP)
  • GITHUB and Linux command line experience while be helpful as well.
  • CMS – Drupal and WordPress. vBulletin
  • Possible experience with AWS (s3 specifically), Dreamhost, UI development
  • Cloud based hosting experience a plus
  • Javascript also a huge plus

While this is a diverse request this doesn’t have to be just one person! If you fit any part of this please feel free to inquire.

This is not just for projects related to F4WOnline.

  • Send all inquiries to [email protected] with title WEB DEVELOPER.
  • If you have inquired before, please send your information again. 

Latest Free YouTube Video:

Subscribe to our YouTube channel here!

WON NEWSLETTER: January 25, 2021 Observer Newsletter: Why a quarantine policy could affect wrestling & MMA

We’ve got a double issue of the Observer out this week with notes on how President Biden’s new policies on international travel will affect wrestlers and fighters from different countries.

Also in this issue:

The new WrestleMania plans, including how the Super Bowl plays into it, the time frame for the shows for both nights, the inside hopes for attendance and how the dynamic is different this year as to what gets announced.  We also look at the decision making in regards to Dallas and Los Angeles, update the Royal Rumble and also have notes on match plans.

Coverage of Impact Hard to Kill, with notes on the key angles, the departure of Madison Rayne, Taya Valkyrie and Ethan Page, Page’s scathing words after his departure, plus match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results.

Dwayne Johnson’s new TV show about his life, new WWE signees, Dusty Rhodes men’s and women’s tournament, Kofi Kingston talks his injury, WWE television personality gets an ESPN TV show, A.J. Styles talks retirement, lawsuit update, where wrestling shows ranked with network sports, who is looking for new entrance music, what aspect of WWE’s major events are they trying to sell, why Raw will have two very tough dates for competition soon, as well as the most-watched shows of the past week on the WWE Network.

Coverage of both UFC shows over the past week and the story behind Max Holloway’s setting records.

A story on the life of Paul Varelans, an early star of UFC and MMA around the world, as well as his different forays with four different pro wrestling companies as well as his infamous angle with Taz in ECW. For the first time, Missy Hyatt talks publicly about the situation plus comments from all involved. We look at the tournament days of UFC, crazy street fights, and much more.

A story on the life of Guy Hauray, the voice of WWF in France for a generation. 

A story on famous carnival shooter and pro wrestler Dick Cardinal, who was the oldest living pro wrestler at the time of his death. 

History of the biggest draws in pro wrestling each year from 1916 to 2020, including what wrestlers were No. 1 for the most years. 

Win-loss record of every WWE talent in 2020 including who wrestled the most dates, who never lost, who never won and more.

Television ratings of the past week, segment-by-segment numbers for the past two weeks on Wednesday, who was watching in different age groups, how different segments did on Raw & Smackdown.

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.

SUNDAY NEWS UPDATE

We have two weekend shows up right now, a show I did Friday night with Garrett Gonzalez talking the news of the week plus interviewing Randy Hales on Memphis wrestling, and last night’s show with Bryan talking UFC 257, New Japan’s show yesterday, Smackdown, TV ratings and more.

The UFC 257 show no doubt did enormous PPV numbers with 11.1 million Google Searches. This would have been the highest except for maybe McGregor vs. Khabib and Ronda Rousey’s fight with Holly Holm as far as general public interest in a show. It was also notable that Amanda Ribas was the only thing that trended not involving the main event, No. 9 yesterday at 100,000.  Ottman Azaitar trended on Friday with 50,000 based on being fired. It was almost surely one of the largest PPVs in history and if McGregor doesn’t fight again, it will likely be the largest of 2021.  

There was a huge problem because of the interest as ESPN Plus went down for a number of people. For most who were shut out, which Dana White said was mainly a West Coast program, it wasn’t until the third match on the show when it was working again.   

White also conceded after the show that Khabib Nurmagomedov is probably not coming back, saying Nurmagomedov told him that none of these guys are even close to him, referring to Michael Chandler and Poirier (who Khabib beat in a one-sided fight).  He didn’t indicate what he would be doing about the lightweight title.

New Japan World has another show at 4 a.m. Eastern time late tonight/tomorrow morning from Korakuen Hall:

  • Togi Makabe & Yuji Nagata & Tiger Mask & Yota Tsuji vs. Taiji Ishimori & Desperado & Gedo & Jado
  • Will Ospreay & Great O’Khan vs. Hiroyoshi Tenzan & Satoshi Kojima
  • Kazuchika Okada & Hirooki Goto & Tomohiro Ishii vs. Evil & Yujiro Takahashi & Dick Togo
  • Master Wato & Tomoaki Honma vs. Tetsuya Naito & Bushi
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi & Kota Ibushi & Sho vs. Singto Takagi & Sanada & Hormu Takahashi

We got asked earlier today on SNME about Ryback and AEW. Ryback teased signing a new deal with the competition. He’s not signing with AEW.

Newsweek listed the 101 Monumental Moments in television history. The Jerry Lawler-Andy Kaufman angle on the David Letterman show made the list. Usually on lists like this that and the debut of Gorgeous George on national TV in 1947 make the lists (thanks to Brian Henke)

Suwama beat Shotaro Ashino earlier today at Korakuen Hall to retain the Triple Crown.  

WWE

  • The WWE Network has added Evolve 144, ICW Fight Club 156 and Best of British Strong Style in Progress.  The Progress show includes Pete Dunne, Trent Seven, Tyler Bate, Walter, Timothy Thatcher, Axel Dieter Jr., Bandido, Flamita & Rey Horus.
  • E! will be airing a Total Bellas marathon on Thursday.

OTHER NOTES

  • There is a social media story from today. Masaaki Mochizuki was looking for photos from his first match for Dragon Gate’s magazine. He didn’t have any photos of the match but got one from a friend. His first match was January 21, 1994, 27 years ago, against Taz working for the Kitao Dojo promotion. Mochizuki put the photo on his Twitter today. Alan Counihan sent the tweet to Taz. Mochizuki and Taz then both followed each other and had a DM chat which Mochizuki said was the first time they’ve connected with each other since that match. (thanks to Daniel Short)
  • MLW is teasing that Laredo Kid will defend the AAA cruiserweight title within its promotion, teasing Zenshi, El Hijo de L.A. Park, Ikuro Kwon and BoKu Dao as possible contenders.
  • Tom Lawlor will address allegations of Filthy Island financial woes on MLW Fusion on Wednesday.
  • This is tonight’s Sunday Night’s Main Event show. I’m on at the 13:00 mark.
  • Fom Knuckle Up Radio w/ Paige VanZant and Brian Soscia on SiriusXM’s Fight Nation channel 156:
  • Chael Sonnen shares a behind the scenes story involving Conor McGregor from UFC 246.
  • Chael Sonnen gives us his thoughts on PVZ’s much anticipated Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship debut coming on 2/5.
  • Conor flirting with a Pacquiao boxing match is a good business decision according to Paige.
  • David Arquette talked some pro wrestling.
  • Mike Mooneyham writes about John Skyler. (thanks to Lee Wall)
  • Myron Dennis (18-7) vs Fabio Chernat (6-1)  for the LFA light heavyweight title has been announced for 2/12 from the Hartman Arena in Park City, KS on UFC Fight Pass.
  • EPW from last night in Perth, Western Australia:  Tyler Jacobs b Del Cano, Edith Nght & Davis Storm & Julian Ward b Casey Johns & James Hartness & Aaron Hawk, JoelHagan b Jordan Bishop, Taylor King & Jack wards b Dan Moore & Bobby Marshall to keep the tag titles, James Draker b Bruno Nitro, Mikey Nicholls b Michael Morleone to keep the EPW title (thanks to Kevin Chiat)
  • Stardom had an afternoon and evening show today from Osaka.  The afternoon show:  Natsuoko Tora b Ruaka, Tam Nakano & Unagi Sayaka b Saya Iida & Starlight Kid, Utami Hayashishita & Saya Kamitani b Mayu Iwatani & Lady C, AZM & Momo Watanabe b Syuri & Natsupoi, Giulia & Himeka & Maika b Bea Priestley & Konami & Saki Kashima
  • Night show: Ruaka b Lady C, Himeka b Saya Iida, Starlight Kid b Unagi Sayaka, Mayu Iwatani d Tam Nakano, Bea Priestley & Konami & Natsuko Tora & Saki Kashima won three-team eikination over Utami Hayashishita & AZM & Momo Watanabe & Saya Kamitani and Giulia & Syuri & Maika & Natsupoi
  • Ice Ribbon from last night in Tokyo Korakuen Hall:  Mochi Miyagi & Miku Aono & Thekla b Hamuko Hosh & Tsukush Hiragi  Yappy, Yuuki Mashiro & Arisa Nakajima b Ibuki Hoshi & Nao Ishikawa, Ram Kaichow won three-way over Uno Matsuya and Cherry for the Triangle Ribbon title, Totoro Suzulio & Itsuki Aoki & Rina Yamashita b Akane Fujita & Kurumi Hiiragi & Risa Sera, Mayu Yukhi & Maika Ozaki b Tae Honma & Rina Shingaki to keep the International Ribbon tag titles, Tsukasa Fujimoto b Suzu Suzuki to win the Infinity title.
  • Shine from last night in Port Richey, FL:  This was the company’s first show in almost a year.  Rocky Radley and Dynamite Didi were both not cleared to wrestle.  Marti Belle & Jayme Jameson b Sofia Castllo & Lexi Gomez to keep the tag titls, Harlow O’Hara b Erica Torres, Ava Evertt b Sahara Se7en, Allie Recks b Amber Nova, Natalie Markova b The WOAD-DQ, Chelsea Durden b Katalina Perez, Kimber Lee & Stormie Lee b Jayme Jameson & Marti Belle to win the tag titles, Ivelisse b Allysin Kay-DQ to keep the Shine title.(thanks to Shannon Walsh and Wrestlingwithdemons.net)
  • Ignite Wrestling from last night in Florida:  Jarrett Diaz b Aaron Nova, Tech b that Klassic Tag Team, Robet Martyr b Ozzy Kilmeister, Justin Blax b Timmy Lou Retton and Beastly, Leon The Terrible b KiLynn King, Kaci Lennox b Dream Girl Ellie and Aspyn Rose
  • Pro Wrestling Australia airs the first two episodes of its PWA Premiere tournament on Ovo Play tomorrow at 8 p.m..  This will be the last event on Ovo Play since the service is folding on 2/1.
  • PWA Back in Black Label airs on FITE TV on 2/12 at 8 p.m. with Mick Moretti, Jessica Troy, Ricky South and more.

Daily Pro Wrestling History: WWF Royal Rumble 1999

CONTACT INFORMATION

Khabib Nurmagomedov retires after retaining 155-pound title at UFC 254

Posted on by Josh Nason

“The Eagle” has landed for the last time in the Octagon.

UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov made it look easy at UFC 254 Saturday afternoon, submitting interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje in the second round and then announcing his retirement afterward.

After a close first round, Nurmagomedov (29-0) continued to roll into the second frame, effortlessly working from a takedown into a triangle choke that Gaethje (22-3) couldn’t escape, tapping several times before the referee finally called it off. Interestingly, two judges did give Gaethje the first round while the consensus among media was that the champion had won the round.

An emotional Nurmagomedov announced he was retiring as his mother said she didn’t want him to fight anymore without his father being around to see him. His father (also his longtime trainer) died earlier this year due to complications from COVID-19. All he wants at this point is to be ranked the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC when the rankings are released Tuesday.

At the press conference afterward, Dana White said Nurmagomedov’s corner said he almost wasn’t able to fight due to either a broken foot or broken toes suffered three weeks ago.

The 32-year-old has been in the UFC since January 2012, winning the vacant lightweight title in a dominant victory over last minute replacement Al Iaquinta in April 2018. He defended the title three times, most notably against rival Conor McGregor in his first title defense. McGregor did send out a congratulatory tweet after the fight.

The loss snapped Gaethje’s four fight streak of wins and finishes. 

If the retirement sticks, that eliminates a rematch against McGregor that the former champion has wanted as well as a dream fight against George St. Pierre that both men discussed wanting with White as the barrier. Then, there’s the Tony Ferguson fight that almost happened so many times for fate to repeatedly take it away.

It’s likely that if McGregor and Dustin Poirier have their rematch in late-January as both men have discussed, it will be for the vacant title.

Daily Update: UFC 249 changes, Drew McIntyre, NJPW notes

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

DAILY UPDATE

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: March 30, 2020 Observer Newsletter: WrestleMania continues to change

An update on pro wrestling around the world, where almost everything is canceled, update on WrestleMania, and how every company is handling the situation is the lead story in this week’s issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

Why WWE had to tape WrestleMania in advance, update on the card, update on the changes, some of the early changes, what matches were changed from last week and why, many different matches that were talked about as recently as a week ago, PPV price, NXT big matches and the NXT UK next major show.

The new issue also covers: 

The massive stock sale of Vince McMahon, the questions regarding why he would do it, how much of the company he still owns, the television deal with ESPN, and how it compares with airing of big fights from the UFC and boxing on ESPN this week.  We also look at the latest WWE Network free offer and what it entails, how long AEW will be going without fans at shows, why the original plans for last week had to be scrapped, who is iced for now from appearing on AEW TV, how hard it has been to put shows together ad new dates.

Dana White’s comments regarding UFC 249, what he said about testing and what the doctors have said about doing shows right now.  We also look at White’s plans to make up for missed shows, Impact canceling its PPV, the Japanese sports scene, the Governor of Tokyo talks shutting down the city, the difference in stats between Tokyo and New York, and what Korakuen Hall management has decided.

Shows in Japan this past week and decisions made by companies for this coming week.  We look in particular at how New Japan is handling this as compared with other companies.  We look at problems for Americans getting to Japan, when the next possible New Japan show is and what content New Japan has been producing.

The arrest of Jon Jones this past week, details of the arrest and a look back at Jones’ arrests and drug test failures.

The best of the 10s, who were the Best of the Decade as far as the Thesz/Flair Award, MMA Most Valuable, Most Outstanding Wrestler of Fighter, Biggest Box Office Draw, Best Tag Team, Best on Interviews, Most Charismatic, Best Technical, Best Brawler, Best Flyer, Best Promotion, Who had the best matches over the past decade, Best Non-Wrestler and Best Television announcer.

Daniel Bryan also talks his future after his current contract expires, WWE stars make marketing donations, WWE renews major TV deal, U.K. ratings for WWE and AEW, how WWE contract work and how that pressures some wrestlers into signing new deals, behind what Braun Strowman said that caused so much controversy, key exec stock sales, Arn Anderson on what Vince McMahon wanted said about Sting, new WWE movie coming to Netflix, Injury updates, and most-watched shows of the past week on the WWE Network.

A feature on the death of Branko Cikatic, the first K-1 champion and a pioneer on major MMA shows in Japan.  We look at his gigantic career, what star was made in Japan by beating him, the first K-1 World Grand Prix and early Pride shows.

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.

MONDAY NEWS UPDATE

Bryan and I will be back tonight covering Raw, the ever-changing UFC 249, WrestleMania and many other subjects with Wrestling Observer Radio. You can send in questions for tonight’s show to [email protected]

It was said that UFC’s first call for a potential new opponent for Tony Ferguson on 4/18 would be Justin Gaethje. Colby Covington and Tyron Woodley both said they would also be willing to fight each other on the show.  With Russia having sealed its borders and Khabib Nurmagomedov there right now, it doesn’t look good for him fighting on the date. If he misses this date, because of Ramadan, which Nurmagomedov celebrates, he probably wouldn’t be able to fight again until August. This is officially the single most jinxed main event fight in MMA history.

Raw tonight has Undertaker, Brock Lesnar, Edge and Becky Lynch. It is the most low-key go-home show for WrestleMania in history, a show taped this past Tuesday. With a closed set, little is known but I believe they will shoot an angle to change the Raw tag title match to the Street Profits vs. Austin Theory & Angel Garza, but who knows what they’ll do and how they’ll handle things.

Roman Reigns confirmed being off WrestleMania. Paul Levesque was on SportsCenter earlier today pretty much saying the same thing, but he’s still being advertised everywhere for it and WWE’s web site hasn’t listed a change.

We have a two-part interview with Jim Ross up on the site today that Jim Valley and I conducted yesterday, talking about a plethora of different subjects. Ross’ new book, “Under the Black Hat,” which he wrote with Paul O’Brien, covering the last 20 years of his life, will be released tomorrow. You can order the book right now here and Ross will personally autograph it . 

 WWE

  • Drew McIntyre talked to Mirror about WrestleMania and going on with the show, and his thoughts behind-the-scenes on Brock Lesnar & Paul Heyman.
  • Edge did an interview with Sports Illustrated and noted that to get in shape, because he didn’t want anyone to know he was training, WWE sent him a ring for his house and The Revival, who live in the same city as he does, were his regular training partners.

AEW

  • The new episode of Road To is up.

MISCELLANEOUS

  • Garrett Gonzalez interviews Antonio Thomas about his life and career.
  • New Japan has canceled its May tryouts in New Zealand for obvious reasons.
  • Anarchy Wrestling did an empty arena show on Saturday night in Cornelia, GA. 
  • Both ROH and the New Japan World service will be putting out last year’s Madison Square Garden show up for free. ROH will stream the show Sunday at Noon on YouTube. New Japan World will also put the show up for free at some point on Sunday.
  • There will be a huge convention of former wrestling stars from 8/13 to 8/16 in Charlotte at the University Hilton. There will be a banquet hosted by Jim Cornette where they will honor The Road Warriors, the Von Erichs, The Rock & Roll Express, The Fantastics and Jimmy Valiant.  Among those appearing will be Animal, Paul Ellering, Kevin Von Erich, Ricky Morton, Robert Gibson, Bobby & Jackie Fulton, Valaint, Ron Simmons,Butch Reed, Stan Lane, Steve Keirn, Tom Prichard, Tommy Rich Terri Runnels, Billy Jack Haynes, Steve Simpson, Ronnie Garvin, Ken Resnick and more.
  • CWE on 5/5 in Grand Prairie, Alberta, at the Jackpot Grill Events Center has Shane Douglas vs. Beri Gayson.
  • A Will Ospreay match from 2018 in Queensland, Australia has been released.
  • A story on Shota Umino’s last match in the U.K. before the Lockdown by Mark Pickering.

Daily Pro Wrestling History: Ric Flair’s Retirement Match

CONTACT INFORMATION

Khabib-Ferguson UFC 249 main event could be off due to travel ban

Posted on by Josh Nason

Image: MMA Fighting

One of the most anticipated fights in recent history has also been one of the toughest to book and for a fifth time, it appears it will carry that mantle once again.

On a social media chat Monday, UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov said he is unable to leave his home in Dagestan, Russia, due to the coronavirus pandemic related travel ban, thus putting his UFC 249 main event against Tony Ferguson on ice once again.

Nurmagomedov said the UFC told him the event was “100%” happening in the U.S, and was “99%” going to be in Abu Dhabi. He then moved his camp from San Jose, California, based AKA to the United Arab Emirates in preparation only to be told the borders were going to close, so they went home to Dagestan instead. He said he continues to train, but is unsure for what fight and when.

While UFC has not commented publicly on this development, ESPN’s Ariel Helwani reported that they are looking for an alternative which could be fellow top lightweight contender Justin Gaethje. Nurmagomedov alluded to the fact UFC was looking for other options and Gaethje is a managerial teammate of the champion’s.

Helwani’s sources say the UFC 249 pay-per-view will likely be somewhere in the U.S., but would have to feature all fighters based in the U.S. due to the various travel bans. The show was originally slated for Brooklyn, NY.

The face of the Endeavor-owned company, Dana White, has been unrelenting in his efforts to put on events while other major sports have shut down. Various state regulations surrounding mass assemblies of people have ensured any event in the short term will have to be held in front of no fans, but there are questions surrounding COVID-19 testing procedures and related medical testing that White has yet to answer outside of saying “the less the media and fans know, the better.”

Daily Update: UFC 239 fallout, Khabib/Diaz, Teddy Hart update

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

DAILY UPDATE

Latest News:

Latest Audio:

We’re doing three polls this weekend, for the UFC 239 show in Las Vegas, NJPW G-1 opener in Dallas and the Impact PPV on Sunday in Dallas, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected]” target=”_blank”>[email protected]

We’re also looking for reports to [email protected] on these shows:

  • APW/Rev Pro King of Indies Friday in Daly City, CA
  • WWE Raw house show last night in Washington, DC
  • MLW from last night in Chicago
  • WWE Raw tonight in Wilkes-Barre, PA
  • WWE Smackdown tonight in Binghamton, NY

IMPACT SLAMMIVERSARY ON SUNDAY AT 8 P.M. EASTERN FROM GILLEY’S IN DALLAS ON PPV

  • TJP open challenge
  • Rob Van Dam vs. Moose
  • Eddie Edwards vs. Killer Kross first blood match
  • Sami Callihan vs. Tessa Blanchard
  • Taya Valkyrie defends the Knockouts title against Rosemary, Su Yung and Jessicka Havok in a Monster’s Ball match
  • The North (Josh Alexander & Ethan Page) defend the tag titles against LAX and Dezmond Xavier & Trey Miguel
  • Rich Swann vs. Johnny Impact for X title
  • Brian Cage vs. Michael Elgin for Impact title

Monday has Raw TV from Newark, NJ at the Prudential Center.  Rey Mysterio returns Monday.  There is also a Smackdown brand house show on Monday in Glens Falls, NY.

Smackdown and 205 take place Tuesday from Manchester, NH.

F4W NEWSLETTER: Figure Four Weekly: Recapping WWE Stomping Grounds

After a lack of interest heading into the pay-per-view, Stomping Grounds was a show that exceeded expectations.

Given that there weren’t really any surprises at the PPV, that’s probably mostly due to expectations being set too low. Nothing on the show was dramatically better than it should have been. The PPV succeeded where most good WWE shows do. Even if the build was underwhelming, a talented roster was able to go out to the ring and have good matches throughout much of the card.

WON NEWSLETTER: July 8, 2019 Observer Newsletter: The life and death of Perro Aguayo

With a gigantic week of news, we’ve got a double issue of the Observer this week, leading off with a look at the career of Perro Aguayo, one of the biggest drawing cards in pro wrestling history.

We look at his career highlights, the feud that made him a superstar, the big rivalries and big business booms he was part of, his most famous matches, the formation of AAA and his biggest career wins.

We also have more on Eric Bischoff and Paul Heyman leading brands going forward.  We look at the angles on Raw and whose fingerprints were on what, the level of power they look to have, why this move was made, Wall Street’s reaction to the move, how AEW fits into the picture, the audience they are trying to get back the Raw ratings increase that didn’t hold for Smackdown, Heyman and Bischoff talk about their new positions, when Bischoff starts and an analysis of Heyman’s first moves.

We also look at AEW’s Fyter Fest, the chair shot, the preshow, the business numbers, comparisons with WWE and UFC programming, match by match coverage with star ratings and poll results.

We also look at why the U.K. November tour is being rapidly changed, the Evolve special on WWE Network, Stomping Grounds business update, the story behind David Starr stomping on WWE tile belt and WWE reaction, Performance Center news, most-watched shows on the WWE Network and a rundown with business notes on all the WWE arena events this past week.

We also look at the career of Jacques Rougeau Sr, one of the biggest stars in Montreal wrestling history.  We look at the history of the Rougeau family, how Jacques got into wrestling, why he quit at first, what brought him back, how role in making the career of Ivan Koloff, his sons getting into wrestling, his biggest matches, his Jarry Stadium main event, the first $100,000 gate in Canada, and the Rougeaus feud with the Garvins.

We also look at WWE’s tour of Japan this past week, with notes on both shows and business notes as well.

We run through New Japan’s tour of Australia, with business notes , Southern Showdown match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results and the Ospreay-Eagles match.

We also update Extreme Rules with matches announced and others that could be added.

We’ve also got full coverage of UFC in Minneapolis including detailed business notes.

We’ve got a rundown on ROH Bet in the World from Baltimore, with business notes, match-by-match coverage and star ratings.

We also look at the changing television situation in the U.K. with the WWE’s new deal with BT Sports and AEW’s new deal.

We look at the TripleMania card and the unique team of Cody & Psycho Clown & Cain Velasquez.  There’s also notes from Killer Kross, who is training Velasquez.

We also look at the wrestling career of Yoshiaki Yatsu, who had his leg amputated over the past week.  We look at his 1980s heyday when he was one of the best in the world, why he was important in history, his amateur background and his famous Pride match with Gary Goodridge.

We also look at the death of Jerry Seltzer, the famed Roller Derby promoter, how that game worked, how it exploded in popularity, why it died off, and Seltzer’s later role in the ticketing business.

We also run down the ratings of all the major TV shows, along with detailed demo info for the WWE shows.

We also have the 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.

SUNDAY NEWS UPDATE

Garrett Gonzalez and I will be back tonight after Impact’s Slammiversary show talking the latest news.  You can send questions to the show to [email protected]. We also have a new show up for the weekend covering the G-1 and UFC 239, and have new interview shows up with both Jushin Liger and Kota Ibushi.

Luke Rockhold suffered a broken jaw in his fight with Jan Blachowicz.

All of Ben Askren’s tests reportedly came back negative so he’s okay according to Dana White after the show.  He was obviously hospitalized after a brutal knockout.

No update on Jon Jones, who was helped out.  Thiago Santos had minor surgery on his right knee a few months ago and blew out his left knee in the first round of the fight.  Media scores were 78-22% in favor of Jones, although I felt the fight could have gone either way.  Story on the surgery from MMA Fighting.

The judges scores were:

  • Michael Bell gave Jones rounds 2, 3 and 4
  • Derek Cleary gave Jones 2, 3 and 5
  • Junichiro Kamijo gave Jones 3 and 5.  If Clearly had given Santos 5, a round many thought he won clearly, Santos would be champion. Dana White said Jones won and has no interest in making a rematch

Nate Diaz and Khabib Nurmagomedov, who were seated not far from each other, nearly got into it last night. Security broke it up before anything serious happened and they moved Diaz to a different seat.  Diaz ended up leaving the show after the Gilbert Melendez fight.

WWE

  • Sheamus and Natalya are both appearing at the Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame induction ceremony on 7/25 to 7/27 in Waterloo, IA.  Gerald Brisco is doing a talent evaluation for WWE.  Among others appearing for the weekend are Beth Phoenix, Ultimo Dragon, Gerald Brisco, Sgt. Slaughter, Thunderbolt Patterson, Nick Dinsmore, Lisa Marie Varon, Jim Ross, J.J.Dillon, Tony Garea, Brian Shields, Wes Brisco, James Beard, Brian Blair, Baron Von Raschke, Ric McCord,, Bob Roop and Brian Pillman Jr.  There will also be a pro wrestlnig with an eight-man tournament and what is being billed as Blair’s retirement match.
  • Dolph Ziggler is doing comedy shows on Wednesday and Thursday night in Appleton, WI at Skyline Comedy.  The former Hornswoggle will be on the bill with him.

UFC

  • Interest in last night’s show was high, as there were 2.5 million Google searches making UFC 239 the most searched for topic in the U.S.  Ben Askren, at 500,000, after his spectacular knockout loss, was the third most searched term yesterday.  The New Japan G-1 show did not crack the top 20, although that is not unexpected as previous show haven’t either.  When it comes to big events, it’s pretty clear the UFC big events have the most mainstream interest, followed by WWE and Bellator.  AEW Double or Nothing did crack the list as has Bare Knuckle Boxing, and NXT has twice at a low level.    
  • A story in the Buffalo News on Rashad Evans going into the UFC Hall of Fame (thanks to Tom Mehs)

MISCELLANEOUS

  • Former pro wrestler Don Wright, and wife Sandy, lost her home and their car due to a home fire.  They are raising five grandchildren who start school soon.  Jon Moxley found out about a Go Fund Me set up by a coworker of Sandy and donated $5,000 enabling them to reach their goal.
  • Sporting News talked to Sami Callihan regarding tonight’s match with Tessa Blanchard.
  • In an update of something talked about on the show last night, Teddy Hart didn’t go through a door, but crashed into a ladder and seemed to hurt his back but Court Bauer said that Hart is fine today.  MLW sold out Cicero for the third time in a row last night.
  • Dolph Ziggler will be participating in the panel “Happy Birthday Troma” for the 45th anniversary of Troma Entertainment and for Lloyd Kaufman’s 50 years as a filmmaker on 7/20 at the San Diego Comic Con in Room 25ABC at 9 p.m.  Former wrestler Scott Lost, now a comic book artist, will be part of a panels on 7/18 called “Not So Strange Bedfellows:  The Relationship between comics and pro wrestling in Room 29AB at 1 p.m.  Rob Van Dam will appear in a panel on Independent Filmmaking for Low Budget Film, TV and web series on 7/18 in Room 25ABC at 9 p.m.  Women of Wrestling at Headlocked Comics in booth #1901 on 7/20 from 1-3 p.m. has David McLane, Jeanie Buss and The Beast and 7/21 from Moon to 2 p.m. has Tessa Blanchard and McLane.
  • Former pro wrestler Anthony Carelli (Santino Marella) joined Neil Adams (former Olympic medalist and the brother of former pro wrestler Chris Adams) as announcers this weekend for judo’s Montreal Grand Prix.  Today is the final day and it’s streams at live.ijf.org  I’ve seen photos of pro wrestling legend Volk Han there. 
  • The AAW Jim Lyman Memorial tournament takes place on 8/29 and 8/30 at the Logan Square Auditorium in Chicago.
  • Phil DeFries (17-6) defends the KSW heavyweight title against Damian Grabowski (22-5) in the main event of the KSW show on 9/14 at SSE Wembley in London.  Tomasz Narkun (16-3) will also defend the light heavyweight title and Norman Parke (27-6-1) vs. Marian Ziolowski (21-7-1) are also announced.
  • AAW on 7/12 in Milwaukee at Turners Hall Ballroom has Sami Callihan vs. Fatu for the heavyweight title, Jessicka Havok vs. Taya Valkyrie for the women’s title, John Morrison vs Juventud Guerrera, Rey Fenix & Penta 0M vs. Myron Reed & A.R. Fox and Josh Briggs vs. Josh Alexander.
  • Warrior Wrestling 6 on 9/1 in Chicago (the day after All Out) at the Marian Catholic High School at 7 p.m.   Announced as appearing are Mick Foley, Brian Cage, Tessa Blanchard, Pentagon Jr., Fenix, Dragon Lee, Ultimo Guerrero, Atlantis, Caristico, Michael Elgin, Austin Aries Tom Lawlor, Daga, Sam Adonis, Brian Pillman  Jr., Wardlow, Andrew Everett, Templario, Soberano Jr. and more.
  • Progress from yesterday in Newcastle, U.K.:  Fraser Thomas & HT Drake & Screwface Ahmed b Benji & Conor Renshaw & Zeo Knox, Darren Kearney & LJ Clearly & Natthan Martin b Chuck Mambo & Spike Trivet & William Eaver-DQ, Jurn Simmons b Connor Mills, Holidead b Candy Floss, Ilja Dragunov b Jordan Devlin to become top contender for the Progress title, Paul Robinson b Primate, David Starr b Brent Banks, Walter b Eddie Kingston to keep Progress title (thanks to Paul Sosnowski)
  • Progress from today in Manchester, U.K.:  Soner Dursun b Luke Jacobs, LJ Clearly b Chuck Mambo, Holidead b Lana Austin, Jordan Devil b Conor Mills, Jonathan Gresham b Eddie Kingston-COR, Trent Seven b Paul Robinson, Spike Trivet & William Eaver b Darren Kearney & Nathan Martin, Walter b Ilja Dragunov to keep the Progress title
  • Future Stars of Wrestling from Friday night in Las Vegas in a UWFI style show:  Ryan Couture b Dave Mazany, Stephan Bonnar b Sinn Bohdi, Gina Mazany b Kyra Batara, Tom Lawlor b Douglas James (said to be best bout of the show), Frank Mir b Simon Grimm, Killer Kross b Dan Severn, Killer Kross NC Jon Moxley with a double knockout finish.  Moxley wasn’t advertised but just showed up. (thanks to Armando Aguilar)
  • IWF on 10/11 in Wayne, NJ at the Wayne PAL Building with Tony Atlas, Tito Santana and Bull James Dempsey.
  • Impact from last night in Texas City, TX in a joint show with Booker T’s Reality of Wrestling:  Jordynne Grace b Alex Gracia, Jonathan Vega & Diego De La Cruz b Dezmond Xavier & Zachary Wentz, Moose b Mysterious Q, Brenden Steen won scramble over Ayden Cristiano, Cameron Cole, Bryan Keith, Will Allday, Isaiah, Josh Alexander, Jake Crist, Dave Crist, Ethan Page, Mad Man Fulton and Willie Mack, Brenden Steen b Josh Alexander, Sami Callihan DCOR Terrell Tempo, Michael Elgin b Moonshine Mantell (ROW champion) due to distraction from The North, Gino b Eddie Edwards, Tessa Blanchard won four-way over AQA, Hyan and Su Yung, Zack Zilla & Warren J b LAX, (thanks to Shannon Walsh and wrestlingwithdemons.net)
  • MWE on 7/12 in St. Louis Park, MN at the Rec Center with Flash Gordon vs Kongo Kong.  Nikita Koloff will appear on the show.
  • I Believe in Wrestling from Friday night in Orlando:  Carlos Gabriel b Jay Sky, JD Amazing b Caius Wolfe, Mike Reed b Danny Malo, Deon James b Antony Catena, Ali Mohammed b Reni Danilo, Chasyn Rance & Amber Nova & Lexi Gomez & Gia Roman b Blake Burke & Ahmed Ayuooti & Kaci Lennox & Dank the Clown, Josh Dawkins b Johnny Zekie, Aaron Epic d Andrew Marlin.  Next show is 8/2 with Epic vs. Merlin 2/3 falls and Amber Nova vs. Blake Banks. 
  • Tickets for Defy’s Defyane Forever show are on sale for 8/23 in Tacoma, WA at the Temple Theater which will include New Japan talent.
  • Innovate Wrestling on 8/10 in Kingsport, TN at the Civic Auditorium for Fire in the Mountain 2019.
  • Tickets for the 9/18 and 9/19 WOW TV tapings in Los Angeles at the Belasco Theater are on sale.   Both nights are AXS tapings for the new season and start at 6:30 p.m.
  • RevPro today in London at the Cockpit:  James Mason b Kenneth Halfpeny, Dan Moloney & MK McKinnan b Dan Magee & Kurtis Chapman, Gabriel Kidd b Jaxton Stone, Kyle Fletcher b Josh Bodom, Seleziya Sparks b Shazza McKenzie, Mark Davis NC Sha Samuels, El Phantasmo & Hikuleo b A-Kid & Carlos Romo, Pac b David Starr
  • A story on an indie show in Butler, OH (thanks to Mike Kuzmuk)
  • Colt Cabana was announced for the RetroMania Wrestling video game.
  • A trailer for a new wrestling movie about a wrestler with Down’s Syndrome (thanks to Joe Puccio)

Daily Pro Wrestling History: The NWO forms at Bash at the Beach 1996

CONTACT INFORMATION

UFC announces Khabib-Poirier for Abu Dhabi return

Posted on by Josh Nason

UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov will face interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier this September at UFC 242 in the promotion’s return to Abu Dhabi.

The undefeated Nurmagomedov (27-0) hasn’t fought since last October’s fourth round submission win over Conor McGregor that resulted in a post-fight melee fueled by a personal rivalry between both camps. Nurmagomedov was retroactively suspended for nine months by the Nevada Athletic Commission, but said he wouldn’t compete until two of his teammates’ year-long suspensions were up. Those suspensions just happened to be recently shortened by 35 days following a recommendation from NAC president Bob Bennett.

Poirier won the interim belt with a unanimous decision over Max Holloway at April’s UFC 236. Since moving back to lightweight in 2015, Poirier is 9-1-0-1.

This will be UFC’s third appearance in Abu Dhabi and their first since an April 2014 Fight Night event that drew 7,963 for a $1.8 million gate. Their first event was April 2010’s UFC 112 at the Yas Island complex, headlined by then-middleweight champion Anderson Silva vs. Demian Maia, a fight marred by Silva’s lackluster peformance. The show drew 11,009 for a $3.5 million gate.

Last September, UFC owners Endeavor purchased back Abu Dhabi-based Flash Entertainment’s 10% stake in the UFC.

JNPO: 2018 MMA Year In Review, pt. 3

Posted on by Josh Nason

Before the calendar officially flips to the MMA new year with next week’s UFC debut on ESPN/ESPN+, there’s still a bit of business to take care of with the year we just wrapped up. 

In part three of the 2018 MMA year in review series, Paul Fontaine of our site and MMADraws.com returns to sift through the various results and headlines from July, August, and September.

If you missed them, here’s part 1 and part 2.

Among the things that happened:

  • Daniel Cormier knocking Stipe Miocic to win the UFC heavyweight title to go along with his light heavyweight title
  • The post-win confrontation Cormier had with Brock Lesnar and the feeling at the time that UFC was hot again
  • The announcement that Conor McGregor vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov was happening in October
  • Max Holloway’s scary medical crisis that saw him pull out of his highly-anticipated title defense against Brian Ortega
  • Tyron Woodley cementing his status as a great UFC welterweight with his dominant win over Darren Till
  • Bellator’s champion vs. champion fight between Rory MacDonald and Gegard Mousasi that was fairly one-sided
  • And, of course, plenty more.

Click below to listen now:

Right click save

Daily Update: AEW notes, Royal Rumble, Conor/Khabib

Posted on by F4W Staff

DAILY UPDATE

Latest News

Latest Audio

F4W NEWSLETTER: Figure Four Weekly: Looking at WWE’s promise of change

After promising change, the challenge for WWE going forward is to make a real commitment to that instead of having it be a short-term ratings fix. Those vague promises of change were made during the opening segment of last Monday’s episode of Raw. Following two straight weeks of record-low ratings — with the first of them even being brought up on WWE television as Seth Rollins said Baron Corbin was the reason for the ratings dip — it was advertised that Vince McMahon would return to “shake things up.” Vince appeared and brought out Stephanie McMahon, Triple H, and Shane McMahon. WWE oddly blurred the lines between kayfabe and reality, with the McMahons also blaming Raw’s issues on Corbin. 

WON NEWSLETTER: December 31, 2018 Observer Newsletter: Jon Jones testing controversy, more

The most in-depth reporting on the Jon Jones case is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

This article tries to break down the time line, what the realities of drug testing are, what is misleading, why the show was moved, why the show had no reason to be moved, the limits on what drug testing can detect and how many statements over the past week have been double-talk, & the fishy parts of the case.

Also look at previous Jones tests and the controversy prior to the first Cormier fight that nobody talks about and why it was controversial. Go through the Tom Lawlor and Tim Sylvia cases.

Look at the new Impact TV deal, what is Pursuit TV, what options Impact had, comparing the homes that the different wrestling TV shows are in, & why it’s important for Anthem to keep Impact alive.

Read a rundown of WWE’s biggest annual house show of the year, the holiday show at Madison Square Garden. This issue has match-by-match coverage with star ratings and business notes, as well as appearances by Vince McMahon and John Cena, and Ronda Rousey being put in the main event.

Look at discussions regarding what could be the main event at WrestleMania and different angles on the match, the future of the top of the women’s division, more on Smackdown on FOX next year,

Look at Dragon Gate’s Final Gate show, its last major show of the year. Run down the show and talk of the future and update business for that promotion.

ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer, or by using PayPal directing funds to [email protected]. 

Rates in the United States are $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52. In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to [email protected]. For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52. If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.)

If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can choose one free classic issue or two free classic issues with a 40-issue subscription.

TUESDAY NEWS UPDATE

(By Joseph Currier and Bryan Rose)

WWE

  • On behalf of everyone here at Wrestling Observer/Figure Four Online, happy New Year! SmackDown will air tonight at 8 p.m. Eastern time, featuring the return of John Cena to WWE television. This episode was taped this past Saturday in Pittsburgh.
  • Sasha Banks, Bayley, Ember Moon, Natalya, Ruby Riott, Liv Morgan, and Sarah Logan have been officially announced for this year’s women’s Royal Rumble match. Carmella will also be in the match and will enter the Rumble at number 30 as a stipulation of winning Mixed Match Challenge with R-Truth. R-Truth will enter the men’s Rumble at number 30, and Drew McIntyre has also been confirmed for that match.
  • NXT UK’s Wolfgang and wrestler Molly Spartan got engaged at a Glasgow Clan hockey game.
  • Dustin Rhodes (Goldust) will be doing a talk show tour with Inside the Ropes in March. The dates are in Birmingham, England on March 5, Manchester on March 6, Glasgow, Scotland on March 7, Ireland (city to be announced) on March 8, and London on March 9.
  • Bayley talked to Metro Sport about the Royal Rumble and how satisfied she is in terms of where she is at in WWE.

Pro Wrestling

  • All Elite Wrestling’s rally for Double or Nothing at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Florida next Tuesday is taking place on the same day as SmackDown is being held at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. The Double or Nothing rally is starting at 5 p.m. Eastern time.
  • Matt Jackson tweeted about the announcement of All Elite Wrestling: “Thank you for making the decision to do this a no-brainer. We cannot do it without you. #AllEliteWrestling”
  • All Elite Wrestling and Double or Nothing merchandise is already on sale at Pro Wrestling Tees.
  • BJ Whitmer, who recently resigned from his behind-the-scenes position with ROH, tweeted a picture of the logo for All Elite Wrestling
  • There is a new interview on New Japan’s English site with Kazuchika Okada where he talks about Jay White being the toughest foreigner, the current status of CHAOS and Bullet Club’s resurgence.  
  • The site also has an interview with Hiroshi Tanahashi, talking about his match with Kenny Omega ahead of Wrestle Kingdom 13.
  • Trevor Lee confirmed that he’s officially a free agent and no longer under contract with Impact Wrestling: “Today I am officially a Free Agent.  I want to thank @IMPACTWRESTLING for all the friends I have made and knowledge I have learned. #ZNA”
  • Jordynne Grace will defend the PROGRESS women’s championship she won this past weekend against Kylie Rae at Warrior Wrestling on January 5.
  • Ric Flair has a New Year’s resolution for 2019.
  • Happy birthday to Jimmy Hart, who turns 76 years old today.

UFC/MMA

  • Talking to TMZ Sports, Dana White expressed interest in a Conor McGregor/Khabib Nurmagomedov rematch in 2019. He says it depends on how the hearing with the NASC goes in relation to the brawl that happened after UFC 229.
  • Cat Zingano talked to ESPN about the damage to her eye following her loss to Megan Anderson on Saturday. “I have a damaged iris, damaged retina, hemorrhage in the back of my eye, increased globe pressure and of course the laceration,” she said. “They want me back at the doctor every three to four days to make sure there’s no detachment on the retina. Right now, they have to keep it dilated and on steroids for the next two weeks to keep the pressure down”. Zingano is considering appealing the ruling.
  • Jimmy Smith, who has done announcing for UFC in the past year and has previously worked for Bellator, announced today that UFC has declined to re-sign him.
  • A trailer for an upcoming documentary on Henry Cejudo has been released.

Daily Pro Wrestling History: Sam Muchnick retirement show

CONTACT INFORMATION

JNPO: A reality check for UFC 229: Melee at The Mobile

Posted on by Josh Nason

Image: Las Vegas Review Journal

It was an unbelievable scene in the moments following UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov’s submission victory over Conor McGregor at Saturday’s UFC 229, one that is overshadowing the actual finish itself.

Helping me sort through all of the opinion clutter following the happenings is old friend Dave Doyle of MMAFighting.com. 

We discuss what our immediate thoughts were when everything happened, my prediction for what the Nevada State Athletic Commission is going to do to Khabib and what happens after that, the roads for both men over the next year. why ultimately this isn’t that bad, and more.

We also discuss being a little worn out by Tony Ferguson’s act, why Anthony Pettis’ new fighting style may take him out of title contention, and more.

In case you missed any of what happened, here’s our fight night recap and a Sunday morning update on everything that happened overnight.

Enjoy this free edition of JNPO below:

Right click save

UFC 229 Khabib-McGregor brawl fallout: Arrests dropped, NAC withholds purse

Posted on by Josh Nason

Following the Conor McGregor-Khabib Nurmagomedov post-UFC 229 brawl that resulted in multiple arrests and chaos in the T-Mobile Arena, there are some updates following a wild night in Las Vegas.

There are hundreds of videos like this showing the footage if you haven’t seen it:

– At the post-fight presser, UFC president Dana White said that the Nevada State Athletic Commission will launch an investigation into everything and is withholding Nurmagomedov’s $2 million purse as they do. McGregor’s $3 million purse was not withheld as the NAC didn’t see any evidence to do so.

– White was non-committal on stripping the lightweight title from Nurmagomedov until after the NAC decides what to do. “The governor (of Nevada) was here tonight and went running out of the building. That’s not good.”

– Three members of Nurmagomedov’s entourage/corner were arrested, but McGregor declined to press charges so they were released.

– White didn’t entertain a rematch because he’s unsure as to what the NAC will rule and whether Nurmagomedov will be able to get a visa to be able to do so. 

– White said he didn’t regret any of the promotion leading up to the fight, nor taking further internal action against McGregor following the bus incident.

– The show brought in 20,034 and did over $17 million at the gate.

– White said the two members of Nurmagomedov’s team that jumped in the cage that are currently on the UFC roster will never fight in the promotion again.

– Nurmagomedov spoke briefly at the press conference and while he was apologetic, he didn’t understand why people were so focused on him jumping the cage after the bus dolly incident.

McGregor didn’t appear the press conference, but did make a brief statement:

VIDEO: UFC 229 post-fight press conference

Posted on by F4W Staff

UFC 229 was already considered to be a historic event in many people’s eyes, but the way it ended will have spectators remembering what happened for years to come, and not in a good way.

Khabib Nurmagomedov submitted Conor McGregor in the fourth round with a neck crank to retain the UFC Lightweight title. Immediately after the fight, the ringside area erupted in chaos as one of McGregor’s team mates were attacked by someone from Khabib’s team, leading to a brawl. Members of both teams, including Khabib himself threw punches at one another both outside and inside of the Octagon. It eventually resulted in both parties being escorted from the arena as Bruce Buffer announced the winner. 

Watch the post-show conference here. Honestly, it isn’t known what will happen or who will be there. It is possible that Dana White will speak about what went down and what the ramifications will be.