Tag: usa

Daily Update: NXT overrun, Bandido, Usman/Covington

Posted on by Bryan Rose

DAILY UPDATE

Latest News:

Latest Audio:

F4W NEWSLETTER: NXT’s USA Network era starts strong Joseph Currier gives his thoughts on NXT’s live premiere. Plus, Vinny’s TV reviews.

NXT took advantage of their head start over AEW by hitting a home run with last week’s live premiere.

It wasn’t surprising that NXT’s first live episode was good — it would have been pretty shocking if it wasn’t. Even if there have been occasional peaks and valleys, NXT has always been a good show. Triple H and his team know what they’re doing and the roster is stacked with talent. But NXT was able to pass one of their most important tests: creating a show that feels must-see and different from what they were already offering viewers.

It’s become clear that NXT is going to be a place that features all of WWE’s non-main roster sub-brands. In addition to the regular NXT talent on display, the show featured an appearance by WWE United Kingdom Champion WALTER and his Imperium stablemates. There was also a Cruiserweight Championship number one contender’s match, with Lio Rush making his return and defeating Oney Lorcan.

Due to the final episodes of the USA Network series “Suits,” the first two live editions of NXT are being split across USA and the WWE Network. Last week’s USA Network hour featured a really good fatal four-way number one contender’s match that saw Candice LeRae defeat Mia Yim, Bianca Belair, and Io Shirai to become NXT Women’s Champion Shayna Baszler’s next challenger. Cameron Grimes squashed Sean Maluta, and Roderick Strong became the new NXT North American Champion by defeating Velveteen Dream. The first NXT broadcast of the USA Network era ended with every member of Undisputed Era holding a title.

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

WON NEWSLETTER: Everything changes next week, Impact moving to AXS

With perhaps the most important week for the U.S. industry in a decade coming up, a double issue this week:

Goes through details of the moves by WWE and AEW, what plans are, advertisers wants, promotion and much more. 

Includes an extensive look at Battle of Los Angeles, New Japan’s upcoming big shows and Tokyo Dome plans, what to learn from the NXT ratings and much more.

The lead story talks about WWE’s big week, the importance of the different shows, overdoing nostalgia, ticket sales, announcing changes,  205 Live’s future, plans for all the shows, what demos to look at, what happened with AEW and ITV, NXT, Smackdown and AEW on the West Coast, replays shows, Smackdown ad rates, as well as a look at Hell in a Cell.

Impact to AXS and what the plans are for specials leading to the regular show. 

The keys in week two’s NXT show and the audience change.

Brock Lesnar’s future, John Hennigan coming in, CM Punk, former UFC legend talks coming to WWE, Shayna Baszler talks her career, WWE injuries, WWE stock update, most-watched shows on WWE Network for the past week, as well as a look at every WWE & NXT arena event over the past week with results, highlights and business notes.

NJPW coverage of Destruction in Kobe, Tokyo Doe direction, King of Pro Wrestling, the Young Lions Cup and match-by-match coverage with star ratings.

Battle of Los Angeles, Bandido’s win, past winners, other PWG alumni, business notes, the good and the bad, the stars of the weekend, the stars of the future, Aramis, Alex Zayne, plus match-by-match coverage with star ratings.

Full coverage of the UFC from Mexico City along with business notes.

Full coverage of all the WWE television shows from the past week.

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.

TUESDAY NEWS UPDATE

Additional notes by Joseph Currier

WWE

  • Tomorrow’s episode of NXT is listed as having a 15-minute overrun, meaning it will end at around 10:15 p.m. ET.
  • Joaquin Wilde gave an update on his orbital bone surgery: “My eye is swollen shut but i just wanted to let yall know that surgery was a success and im officially on the road to recovery. I have a steel plate in my face now. Surgeon said 4 weeks til i can start doing stuff again. So ill be back at it real soon!”
  • Triple H spoke to the Sporting News about NXT’s new era on USA Network.
  • WWE launched official playlists on Apple Music today. They feature a workout playlist by Triple H and a pump-up playlist by Asuka.
  • Stephanie McMahon appeared on FOX & Friends and FS1’s First Things First today to promote SmackDown’s move to FOX.
  • Roman Reigns took part in an episode of Actually Me for GQ.
  • It was officially announced yesterday that TLC will take place at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota on December 15.
  • Sasha Banks, Jeff Hardy, Seth Rollins and Ricochet will be part of Ringsidefest 2019 on November 3rd.
  • The WWE Performance Center uploaded a video on Dio Maddin and him doing commentary at Madison Square Garden last month.
  • WWE has a video on the making of Raw’s new opening.

Pro Wrestling

  • Bandido on Instagram posted a picture of himself in the hospital indicating that he will be out seven weeks due to his injury.
  • AEW welcomed Alex Abrahantes to their broadcast team.
  • Jon Moxley sent out a tweet hyping up his appearance on tomorrow’s AEW Dynamite premiere: “Moxley. Live TV. Pissed Off. Tomorrow night. TNT. #AEWDynamite”
  • Cody, Brandi Rhodes, and MJF are doing a meet-and-greet at Anniversary Plaza on the south side of the Illini Union in Urbana, Illinois at noon Central time this Thursday.
  • Kevin Kelly tweeted that he was heading into the studio today to do English commentary for last Saturday’s NJPW Fighting Spirit Unleashed show in New York City.
  • CM Punk appeared on the Kevin & Bean radio show today.
  • Ohio Valley Wrestling moves to Tuesdays starting tonight on Louisville’s local channel 21, WBNA.
  • John Morrison has been added to RetroMania Wrestling, an upcoming video game based on WWF WrestleFest that is coming out for the PC, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch.

UFC/MMA

  • UFC today officially confirmed that the Kamaru Usman vs. Colby Covington Welterweight title fight is back on, this time for UFC 245 on December 14.
  • A warrant has been issued for Anthony “Rumble” Johnson stemming from a missed court date. He was scheduled to be in court in relation to a misdemeanor domestic violence charge from earlier this year.
  • The first two episodes of UFC Embedded for UFC 243 are now available.
  • Georges St-Pierre’s coach Firas Zahabi thinks the ship has sailed regarding the idea of St-Pierre vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov at 155.
  • Kevin Lee vs. Gregor Gillespie is being targeted for UFC 244 in New York.

Daily Pro Wrestling History: Samoa Joe vs. Kenta Kobashi

CONTACT INFORMATION

Figure Four Weekly: NXT’s USA Network era starts strong

Posted on by F4W Staff

For the PDF click here.

For the Epub click here.

NXT took advantage of their head start over AEW by hitting a home run with last week’s live premiere.

It wasn’t surprising that NXT’s first live episode was good — it would have been pretty shocking if it wasn’t. Even if there have been occasional peaks and valleys, NXT has always been a good show. Triple H and his team know what they’re doing and the roster is stacked with talent. But NXT was able to pass one of their most important tests: creating a show that feels must-see and different from what they were already offering viewers.

It’s become clear that NXT is going to be a place that features all of WWE’s non-main roster sub-brands. In addition to the regular NXT talent on display, the show featured an appearance by WWE United Kingdom Champion WALTER and his Imperium stablemates. There was also a Cruiserweight Championship number one contender’s match, with Lio Rush making his return and defeating Oney Lorcan.

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

Daily Update: NXT to USA, CMLL, Jorge Masvidal

Posted on by F4W Staff

DAILY UPDATE

Latest News:

Latest Audio:

F4W NEWSLETTER: Figure Four Weekly: Seth Rollins wins Universal title at SummerSlam

Joseph Currier gives his thoughts on SummerSlam 2019. Plus, Bryan Rose’s Japan notes, and Vinny’s TV reviews.

This year’s SummerSlam main event was a pivotal moment in the career of Seth Rollins.

If that wasn’t made clear going into the pay-per-view, it certainly felt true in the moment. As much as headlining a Big Four PPV is a huge spot for anyone, Rollins’ match against Brock Lesnar came at a time when Rollins was at a tipping point. He could either win and regain his momentum — or his character would probably have to go in a different direction.

With how WWE built to their match, Rollins winning was the right outcome. He had been viciously beaten down by Lesnar in angles on Raw each of the last two weeks. After the second attack, a subdued Rollins vowed to be at SummerSlam and guaranteed that he would defeat Lesnar.

Rollins came through on his guarantee. After hitting his third curb stomp of the match, Rollins pinned Lesnar to regain the Universal title. The match delivered on a much higher level than Rollins’ previous bouts against Lesnar. Rollins was put over strongly and positioned as the current top babyface in the company.

WON NEWSLETTER: August 19, 2019 Observer Newsletter: Summerslam and G1 Finals reviews, more

One of the most shocking and heated angles in modern wrestling is covered as the lead story in the new Wrestling Observer Newsletter. 

We discuss the angle itself, how it came together, and what it might be leading to. 

Reviews of WWE Summerslam and NJPW’s G1 finals, plus tons of news are also covered this week. 

We have results and star ratings from SummerSlam, as well as data and analytics on who bought the show on traditional PPV. 

Of course we have star ratings and business notes on the final G1shows of the year, as well as the readers’ poll for G1 MVP. We also examine how this year’s tournament compared to last year’s from a business perspective. 

We have a story on some changes to upcoming WWE house shows. We also have notes on WWE PPV buying habits in major markets in 2019.

As you might expect, we also have complete coverage of NXT TakeOver: Toronto, as well as star ratings for the matches. 

Also in this issue, Ryan Frederick covers this past weekend’s UFC show, and we have detailed TV ratings and business notes on the show. 

We have full coverage of all the WWE television shows from the past week.

As always, we have in-depth looks at the ratings of all the major shows,the key demos for the WWE shows and what can be learned from them.

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.

TUESDAY NEWS UPDATE

by Joseph Currier and Bryan Rose

WWE

  • SmackDown tonight takes place at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Daniel Bryan and Buddy Murphy will face off following last week’s confrontation. Two King of the Ring matches will also take place, as Kevin Owens will take on Elias and Apollo Crews will face Andrade.
  • 205 Live will have a Captain’s Challenge match, with Oney Lorcan, Jack Gallagher, Akira Tozawa, Humberto Carrillo & Isiah “Swerve” Scott facing Drew Gulak, Ariya Daivari, Mike Kanellis, Angel Garza & Tony Nese. Lorcan and Gulak are captianting the teams.
  • With NXT moving to the USA Network, the NXT TV tapings that were scheduled for September 11 and September 12 at Full Sail University have been canceled. Tickets for the September 11 tapings will be honored at the NXT on USA premiere on September 18. Tickets for the September 12 tapings will be honored at the NXT episode on September 25. Those who can’t make the new dates can contact [email protected] with their name and order number for a refund. NXT on USA will be a two-hour show that airs live from Full Sail on Wednesdays from 8-10 p.m. Eastern time.
  • Mauro Ranallo confirmed that he’ll still be doing commentary for NXT when it moves to USA: “I had the honor of being part of the first #SmackDownLive broadcast on @USA_Network I am even more excited to be part of the @WWENXT broadcast team with @McGuinnessNigel & @TheBethPhoenix on USA! WE’LL DO IT LIVE!”
  • Following the NXT to USA announcement, WWE stock closed today at $74.51 per share. That was up 3.59 percent from yesterday.
  • Cedric Alexander spoke to Pro Wrestling Sheet about working with Paul Heyman: “It’s been great working with Paul. He’s really helped me feel more comfortable. He saw a match I had with Bobby Roode months ago on an episode of Main Event and he was a very big fan of it. He’s given me pointers on how to project myself better to fans and small little show business quirks. Because that’s one of the things I’m not 100% comfortable on sometimes, so talking in front of a camera is something that Paul has definitely helped me get more in tune with.”
  • Triple H talks about the move to the USA Network.
  • WWE PC’s YouTube has the first part of a Karen Q road trip video, which includes her injury.
  • “The Fiend” Bray Wyatt’s entrance video has been uploaded to WWE’s YouTube account.
  • The names and logos for the XFL’s eight teams will be unveiled at 12:30 p.m. Eastern time tomorrow.

Pro Wrestling

  • CMLL’s 86th Aniversario has been confirmed for Friday, September 27 at Arena Mexico. ROH’s Death Before Dishonor PPV is taking place in Las Vegas that night.
  • Chris Jericho tweeted about NXT’s move to USA: “Congrats to @WWENXT for making the big move to the @USA_Network! Runners always race faster when somebody is right behind them. Gonna be fun to see which team the world decides to join! #ChooseJericho @AEWrestling @AEWonTNT”
  • AJ Mendez (formerly known as AJ Lee) and actress Aimee Garcia are writing a four-part comic book series called “GLOW vs. The Babyface” that will launch this November.
  • This week’s MLW Fusion episode is now available on YouTube. LA Park faced Jimmy Havoc in a New York City street fight in the main event.

UFC/MMA

  • After Nate Diaz called him out this past weekend, Jorge Masvidal has accepted the challenge, wanting to fight in December.
  • Jon Jones wrote on Twitter regarding a potential Brock Lesnar fight: “Brock is way too slow, I’ll embarrass him.”
  • On Instagram, Conor McGregor commented on Nate Diaz’s win against Anthony Pettis: “3 years to the day myself and this Mexican warrior went to war. Congrats on the win this weekend Nate, it was motivating to see it for my own comeback. I don’t blame you not mentioning me for the trilogy bout post fight, you know what I’m like when I get going. Vicious. I loved the round 3 style from round 1 that you implemented. It’s what I was hoping you would implement for this bout and was glad to see you do it. I’ll be prepared for it when we go again. If we go again. If not, respect always. A war for the ages. No bitch talk. Just real sh*t.”
  • Ben Askren vs. Demian Maia has been set for UFC Singapore on October 26.
  • The UFC 241 prelims averaged 817k viewers, up from 240’s 722k.
  • UFC 242 prelims will air on FX due to a scheduling conflict with ESPN.
  • Khalid Taha vs. Bruno Silva has been moved from UFC 242 in Abu Dhabi to UFC 243 in Melbourne, Australia.
  • Cub Swanson will fight Kron Gracie at an Ultimate Fight Night event on October 12.

Daily Pro Wrestling History: WWE SummerSlam 2017

CONTACT INFORMATION

Daily Update: Dwayne Johnson gets married, NXT/USA, Tony Schiavone

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

DAILY UPDATE

Latest News:

Latest Audio:

F4W NEWSLETTER: Figure Four Weekly: Seth Rollins wins Universal title at SummerSlam

Joseph Currier gives his thoughts on SummerSlam 2019. Plus, Bryan Rose’s Japan notes, and Vinny’s TV reviews.

This year’s SummerSlam main event was a pivotal moment in the career of Seth Rollins.

If that wasn’t made clear going into the pay-per-view, it certainly felt true in the moment. As much as headlining a Big Four PPV is a huge spot for anyone, Rollins’ match against Brock Lesnar came at a time when Rollins was at a tipping point. He could either win and regain his momentum — or his character would probably have to go in a different direction.

With how WWE built to their match, Rollins winning was the right outcome. He had been viciously beaten down by Lesnar in angles on Raw each of the last two weeks. After the second attack, a subdued Rollins vowed to be at SummerSlam and guaranteed that he would defeat Lesnar.

Rollins came through on his guarantee. After hitting his third curb stomp of the match, Rollins pinned Lesnar to regain the Universal title. The match delivered on a much higher level than Rollins’ previous bouts against Lesnar. Rollins was put over strongly and positioned as the current top babyface in the company.

WON NEWSLETTER: August 19, 2019 Observer Newsletter: Summerslam and G1 Finals reviews, more

One of the most shocking and heated angles in modern wrestling is covered as the lead story in the new Wrestling Observer Newsletter. 

We discuss the angle itself, how it came together, and what it might be leading to. 

Reviews of WWE Summerslam and NJPW’s G1 finals, plus tons of news are also covered this week. 

We have results and star ratings from SummerSlam, as well as data and analytics on who bought the show on traditional PPV. 

Of course we have star ratings and business notes on the final G1shows of the year, as well as the readers’ poll for G1 MVP. We also examine how this year’s tournament compared to last year’s from a business perspective. 

We have a story on some changes to upcoming WWE house shows. We also have notes on WWE PPV buying habits in major markets in 2019.

As you might expect, we also have complete coverage of NXT TakeOver: Toronto, as well as star ratings for the matches. 

Also in this issue, Ryan Frederick covers this past weekend’s UFC show, and we have detailed TV ratings and business notes on the show. 

We have full coverage of all the WWE television shows from the past week.

As always, we have in-depth looks at the ratings of all the major shows,the key demos for the WWE shows and what can be learned from them.

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.

MONDAY NEWS UPDATE

Bryan and I will be back tonight breaking down all the news and there is a lot of it. For tonight, if you have any questions regarding the AEW vs. WWE Wednesday night war or the TV deal with USA, send to me at [email protected]” target=”_blank”>[email protected] and I’ll answer it on tonight’s show.

The major aspects of the deal are expected to be announced on Raw tonight. At least that was the plan yesterday and it was what NXT talent was told.  The belief is the show will go live weekly from Full Sail University but that aspect has been a closely guarded secret.

Congratulations to Dwayne Johnson on his marriage to Lauren Hashian, his longtime girlfriend, yesterday in Hawaii. The couple has two daughters, who are 3 (Jasmine) and 1 (Tiana) and have been a couple for some time.

Tony Schiavone will continue to work for MLW as a deal was worked out between MLW and AEW for his services. WWE also made an offer for Schiavone.

All Elite Wrestling tickets for 10/23 in Pittsburgh at the Petersen Events Center and 10/30 in Charleston, WV at the Charleston Coliseum go on sale Friday. Charleston to me is going to be the toughest market to date to sell out instantly in.  Nice sized building and not a big population base, even though it has done strong viewership for AEW shows to date.

WWE

  • There is a WWE Night at Fenway Park in Boston on 9/3.  Fans will have the chance to receive a “The Champ is Here” T-shirt on a first-come first served basis.  50 fans will be selected for photos with Ricochet before the game.
  • Kurt Angle told Ariel Helwani that he thinks Brock Lesnar still wants a fight with Jon Jones.
  • R-Truth talks about his new found fame (thanks to Mike Kuzmuk)
  • Kevin Owens talks King of the Ring.
  • Cesaro talks King of the Ring.
  • Kalisto and Gran Metalik both noted that their contracts will be up in ten months.

UFC

  • Daniel Cormier wrote on Instagram apologizing for his loss, saying he will now decide what he will do next.

MISCELLANEOUS

  • After a successful Expo Lucha this past weekend, Masked Republic, the promoters, announced Expo Lucha 2020 at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia with the idea that it will celebrate the 25th anniversary of Rey Mysterio, Psicosis and Juventud Guerrera wrestling in that building with ECW.  It will take place on August 16 and 17, 2020.  More information will come in the fall.  More information here.
  • PWA from yesterday in Sydney, Australia:  Sam Osborne b Kai Drake, Richard South b Silvio Milano, Steph De Lander won four-way over Aaron Jake, Jay Sorbet and Ultimate Fighter Fudge, Matty Wahlberg b Danger Paul, Billy Preston & Jimmy Townsend b Jack Bonza & Kingsley, Shazza McKenzie b Xena, Michael Spencer b Rhys Angel, Mike Quackenbush & Mat Diamond & Paris De Silva b Adam Hoffman & Jessica Troy & Mick Moretti (thanks to Kevin Chiat)
  • Results from the WWN Recruitment camp tryout show yesterday from Port Richey, FL that they put on their streaming service:  Justin Taylor b Brandon Gore, Cameron Bra’nae b Kelsy Heather, Mat Rogers & Connor Braxton b Chris & Patrick Voros, Karam b Cam Carter, Kirk Aube won over Dean Cooper, Mongo, Alexander Thorne, Noah Gray and Weatherman Josh, Robert Baines b Leo King, Robert Daines b Aaron James, Chris Cruz b Robert Baines, Chris Cruz b Ezra Zelious, Deget Bundlez b Chris Cruz, Deget Bundlez b Scott Leduer, Deget Bundlez b Steve O’Reno, Jenna Van Muscles b Sammy,. Connor Rielly won over Elia Braatz, Manny Damingo and Justin Morales, Gia Roman & Rahne Victoria & Lavender Skye b Hayley Shadows & Shawn Reed & Chelsea Durde, JDX b Mike Micas, Anthony Gutierrez b Mike Donovan (thanks to Shannon Walsh and wrestlingwithdemons.net)
  • Results from the Pro Wrestling Zero Blast Festival in Kawasaki, Japan yesterday:  Shoki Kitamura & Towa Iwasaki b Shogun Okamoto & Yoshikazu Yokoyama, Sugi won three-way over Takuya Sugawara and Yasu Kubota, Rina Yamashita & Kohei Sato b Amazon & Yuji Hino, Arisa Nakajima & Asuka b Yoshiko & Kaho Kobayashi, Koji Kanemoto & Shinjiro Otani & Tatsuhito Takaiwa b Dick Togo & Masao Orihara & Ikuto Hidaka, Masato Tanaka & Hide Kubota b Chris Vice & Taru in an exploding barbed wire bat match to win the Blat King tag titles, Hiroyo Matsumoto b Nanae Takahashi to win the Blast Queen title in a no rope exploding barbed wire and tables death match (thanks to Shannon Walsh)
  • CWE from yesterday in Medicine Hat, Alberta:  Sigmon b Johnny Devine, Jordan Kingsley b Jordan Kage, Tony Kozina b James Tapia, Stormbringer & Montana Black & Kevin O’Doyle b Warlord & Jude Dawkins & Danny Duggan, Slave b Shaun Martens, Alix Zwicker & Kimberly Ford b Zoe Sager & Jade, Danny Duggan b Sigmon.  Next show in Medicine Hat is 11/23 with Juventud Guerrera
  • ACTION Wrestling from Friday night in Tyrone, GA before 255 fans:  Alan Angels b James Bandy, Kevin Blue & Chris Spectra b Matt Sells & Kavron Kanyn, Shawn Dean b Ben Carter, AJ Gray b Steve Manders, Logan Stunt NC Arik Royal, Marko Stunt b Billy Buck, Bobby Flaco b Liam Gray, Fred Yehi b Erick Stevens AC Mack b Slim J.  Next show is 10/5 in Tyrone, GA for a free show with Stevie Richards, Chris Hamrick and more.
  • Shane Douglas will be starting a podcast called “Franchised with Shane Douglas” every week debuting on 8/27,which would be the 25th anniversary of the Douglas win of the NWA world title where the threw the belt down and called it the ECW title, which debuted that title.
  • The Temple Theater in Tacoma, WA not only has the first round of the Super J Cup but on 8/23 has a Defy show with Jushin Liger, Juice Robinson and a meet and greet with Katsuyori Shibata.  The first night is sold out but there are tickets left for the second night.
  • Revolution Wrestling Federation 8/31 in Harrisburg, PA at the Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center.
  • A story on the Battlefield fiasco where a show was run and people didn’t get paid.
  • An interview with wrestling writers Greg Oliver and Steve Johnson.
  • Bloomberg covers New Japan Pro Wrestlnig’s U.S. expansion.
  • A story on AEW signing Chris Van Vliet. (thanks to Paul Kacprzak)

Daily Pro Wrestling History: WWF SummerSlam 2001

CONTACT INFORMATION

WWE NXT on USA Network to debut on September 18

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

The new two-hour NXT television show that will be announced tonight on Raw for the USA Network will have a September 18 debut date.

It was imperative on the WWE side to get a jump on AEW, which debuts with its October 2 show from the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC.

One would think with a date so close to happening, that the locations for the early shows would also be announced tonight.

NXT will be airing on 8-10 p.m. Eastern time on USA on Wednesdays, head-to-head with AEW on TNT.

WWE stock has increased $2.57 per share today to $72.18 based on the expectation of the announcement tonight.

In addition to the NXT announcement, tonight’s Raw will feature AJ Styles defending the United States title against Braun Strowman, two first round matches in the King of the Ring tournament, and a King’s Court segment with Jerry Lawler interviewing Sasha Banks. Samoa Joe vs. Cesaro and Cedric Alexander vs. Sami Zayn are the King of the Ring matches.

Daily Update: NXT/USA, UFC 241 fallout, Tony Schiavone

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

DAILY UPDATE

Latest News:

Latest Audio:

F4W NEWSLETTER: Figure Four Weekly: Seth Rollins wins Universal title at SummerSlam

Joseph Currier gives his thoughts on SummerSlam 2019. Plus, Bryan Rose’s Japan notes, and Vinny’s TV reviews.

This year’s SummerSlam main event was a pivotal moment in the career of Seth Rollins.

If that wasn’t made clear going into the pay-per-view, it certainly felt true in the moment. As much as headlining a Big Four PPV is a huge spot for anyone, Rollins’ match against Brock Lesnar came at a time when Rollins was at a tipping point. He could either win and regain his momentum — or his character would probably have to go in a different direction.

With how WWE built to their match, Rollins winning was the right outcome. He had been viciously beaten down by Lesnar in angles on Raw each of the last two weeks. After the second attack, a subdued Rollins vowed to be at SummerSlam and guaranteed that he would defeat Lesnar.

Rollins came through on his guarantee. After hitting his third curb stomp of the match, Rollins pinned Lesnar to regain the Universal title. The match delivered on a much higher level than Rollins’ previous bouts against Lesnar. Rollins was put over strongly and positioned as the current top babyface in the company.

WON NEWSLETTER: August 19, 2019 Observer Newsletter: Summerslam and G1 Finals reviews, more

One of the most shocking and heated angles in modern wrestling is covered as the lead story in the new Wrestling Observer Newsletter. 

We discuss the angle itself, how it came together, and what it might be leading to. 

Reviews of WWE Summerslam and NJPW’s G1 finals, plus tons of news are also covered this week. 

We have results and star ratings from SummerSlam, as well as data and analytics on who bought the show on traditional PPV. 

Of course we have star ratings and business notes on the final G1shows of the year, as well as the readers’ poll for G1 MVP. We also examine how this year’s tournament compared to last year’s from a business perspective. 

We have a story on some changes to upcoming WWE house shows. We also have notes on WWE PPV buying habits in major markets in 2019.

As you might expect, we also have complete coverage of NXT TakeOver: Toronto, as well as star ratings for the matches. 

Also in this issue, Ryan Frederick covers this past weekend’s UFC show, and we have detailed TV ratings and business notes on the show. 

We have full coverage of all the WWE television shows from the past week.

As always, we have in-depth looks at the ratings of all the major shows,the key demos for the WWE shows and what can be learned from them.

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

WWE will be announcing the NXT television deal on USA on Raw tomorrow night.  I’m told there is one more significant bit of news that will be announced related to this deal on the show.

UFC 241 was the most searched topic on Google yesterday topping two million searches.  Yoel Romero was No. 12 and Anthony Pettis was No. 13, both at 100,000.  Eight of the top 15 markets were in California, topped, shockingly by the Sacramento/Stockton/Modesto metro area.  No, that’s not shocking.

We discussed this last night, but Paulo Costa went into the cage at 214 pounds for his fight with Yoel Romero.  Romero went into the cage at 207.  For a comparison, Nate Diaz was 180 and Anthony Pettis was 177.  The weird one is that Daniel Cormier weighed 236.5 when he didn’t have to cut as a heavyweight, but went into the cage at 247.  Who is the normal course of one day gains nearly 11 pounds?  There is something totally ludicrous about a guy who weighs in at 185 for a fight actually fighting at 214.  Does anyone remember why we have weight classes in the first place?   Then again, while he didn’t make weight, Manny Bermudez was contracted to fight at 135 and went into the cage at 165.

WWE

  • Since people have asked about this and some fans assumed this, The Street Profits losing the NXT tag titles to Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly had nothing to do with the Street Profits being on Raw.  They are remaining as NXT wrestlers even though they will continue with non-wrestling segments on Raw.
  • The WWE Network will be uploading WCW Saturday Night episodes from January 9, 1993 to May 22, 1993.  This is the period with Ricky Steamboat in a lot of main events, a lot of Dustin Rhodes, Steve Austin & Brian Pillman as a tag team and the return to WCW of Ric Flair.
  • Heavy Machinery does stuff with WDRB anchorman Gilbert Corsey, who himself has a pro wrestling background.(thanks to Mike Kuzmuk)
  • A feelgood news story involving Charlotte Flair.
  • Mick Foley working on helping out a fan.

UFC

MISCELLANEOUS

  • NEW from Friday night in Poughkeepsie, NY:  Private Party won three-way over RJ Rude & Zane Bernardo and Luchasaurus & Jungle Boy, Penelope Ford b Tasha Steelz, CazXL (Big Cass) b Jimmy Preston, Wrecking Ball Legursky b Mike Verna, nZo (Enzo Amore) b Brian Pillman Jr., Jerry Lawler & Keith Youngblood b David Arquette & Brian Anthony to keep NEW tag titles, Darby Allin b Hale Collins in a no  DQ match to keep NEW title, Matt Taven b JT Dunn, Jon Moxley b Pentagon Jr.  Taven was a surprise replacement through ROH when Fenix gave word he couldn’t make it.  Taven got a super babyface reaction.  Anthony turned on Arquette after the match and Lawler saved Arquette.  The crowd hated Enzo but didn’t bo him, many just walked off and left and others were quiet.  Cass was cheered. 
  • AEW has reached a deal with Tony Schiavone.
  • Reelz TV will be airing a show called “Autopsy:  The Last Hours of Chyna” on 8/25 at 10 p.m. Eastern. (thanks to Jeff Beecher)
  • TBS during the Dodgers-Braves game plugged All Out on PPV on B/R.
  • Ladies Night Out from last night in Texas City, TX:  Jenna Lynn b Insidious One, Phoebe b Vanity, Rok-C b AQA, Harlow O’Hara b Faye Jackson, Hyan b Mercedes Martinez, Thunder Rosa b Raychell Rose, Kiera Hogan won three-way over Renee Michelle (Drake Maverick’s wife) and Aja Perera, Alex Gracia b Miranda, Ivelisse b Diamante (thanks to Shannon Walsh and wrestlingwithdemons.net)
  • Stardom from yesterday in Tokyo for the first night of the Five Star Grand Prix:  Avary won four-way over Natsuko Tora, Rina and Ruaka, Riho & Starlight Kid & Saya Iida b Leo Onozaki & Hina & Saya Kamitani, AZM b Natsu Sumire, Hana Kimura b Tam Nakano, Saki Kashima b Mayu Iwatani, Jamie Hayter b Arika Hoshiki, Bea Priestley b Andras Miyagi, Utami Hayashishita b Jungle Kyona, Hazuki b Momo Watanabe, Konami b Kagetsu.
  • Stardom from today in Tokyo with more Grand Prix bouts:  Rina & Saya Kamitani b Hina & Leo Onozaki, Jungle Kyona & Riho & Ruaka b Saki Kashima & Starlight Kid & Saya Iida, Momo Watanabe b Avary, Hana Kimura b Natsu Sumire, Jamie Hayter b Andras Miyagi, Kagetsu b Natsuko Tora, Mayu Iwatani b AZM, Tam Nakano b Hazuki, Bea Priestley b Konami, Utami Hayashishita b Arisa Hoshiki 
  • Wrestling Resurgence on 8/31 in Leicester, UK at the Attenborough Arts Centre with Charli Evans vs. Kanji in an Iron Woman match.
  • Rumble at the Hilton from yesterday in Charlotte before 200 fans:  Mike Jackson (the 80s star) b Jason Rage, Chick Donovan b Andrew Anderson-DQ, Kaleb Konley b CW Anderson, Mr.  Hughes wins 20 man Rumble, Dirty Blondes b International All-Stars, Katarina Leigh won three-way over Panda Doll and Maddi Max, JD Drake b Randy Wayne, Tommy Dreamer & Shane Douglas (managed by Baby Doll) b Steve Zios & Bam Bam Bundy (managed by Missy Hyatt).  (Thanks to Jamie Combs)
  • The New Japan show from Sydney, Australia was just put up on New Japan World.  I was told that the Toa Henare vs. Tomohiro Ishii match is the best thing on it, and that Robbie Eagles came across like a superstar.
  • Warrior Wrestling announced  that for $100 you can get an autograph and photo with every wrestler on the card.  Proceeds to benefit scholarships ad clubs and activities at Marian Catholic High School. 
  • GWN on 11/2 in Hamilton, ONT at USW Hall.
  • The WWN recruitment camp will air live an free on the WWN Live.com Facebook cage or with  a Club WWN subscription starting at 7 p.m.  There will be ten matches.  The most impressive performer will get a WWE tryout.
  • Southern Illinois Championship Wrestling from last night in East Carondelet, IL:  Big Texan & Waco b Roy Lewis & Chris Kade, James Jeffries b Death Dealer, Billy McNeil b Richard Shaw, Kowalski b Sid Holland, Shawn Santel & Mauler McDarby b Khayman & Sean Vincent to win tag titles, Flash Flanagan & Gil Rogers b Christopher Hargas & Ken Kasa-DQ, Ricky Cruz b Attila Kan-DQ (thanks to Patrick Brandmeyer)
  • A Dean Malenko interview talking Chris Benoit and Eddy Guerrero.
  • CWE in Cochrane, Alberta on Friday night:  Danny Duggan b Sigmon, Jude Dawkins won ladder match over Slave, Jordan Kinglsey, Jordan Kage and Shaun Martens, Warlord & Montana Black & James Tapia b AJ Sanchez & Kevin O’Doyle & Stormbringer, Alix Zwicker & Kylie Morgan b Zoe Sager & Jade, Johnny Devine b Tony Kozina.  next show in the area is 11/21 in Calgary with Juventud Guerrera.
  • A story on independent wrestler Gregory Iron.

Daily Pro Wrestling History: WWE SummerSlam 2013

CONTACT INFORMATION

Daily Update: Killer Kross, WWE upfronts, Being the Elite

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

DAILY UPDATE

Latest News

Latest Audio

We’re looking for your thoughts on UFC 237, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected].

  • We’re looking for reports from these weekend shows:
  • Smackdown today in Bornemouth, UK
  • Raw Marseilles, France on Friday
  • Evolve from Livonia, MI on Friday
  • Evolve from Indianapolis on Saturday

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

Raw will be tonight from the O2 Arena in London while there will be a Smackdown house show on Monday in Bornemouth, UK. Raw has announced Roman Reigns on Miz TV, Natalya vs. Naomi vs. Alexa Bliss vs. Dana Brooke, Ricochet vs. Baron Corbin and Braun Strowman vs. Drew McIntyre.

NEW JAPAN BEST OF THE SUPER JUNIORS DAY TWO IN SENDAI ON TUESDAY AT 5:30 A.M. EASTERN ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

  • Yota Tsuji vs. Yuya Uemura
  • Tiger Mask & Jonathan Gresham & Ren Narita vs. Taichi & Yoshinobu Kanemaru & Taka Michinoku
  • Juice Robinson & Dragon Lee vs. Sho & Shota Umino
  • Brody King & Marty Scurll vs,. Taiji Ishimori & Gedo
  • Titan & Toa Henare vs. Tetsuya Naito & Shingo Takagi
  • Ren Narita vs. Douki
  • Rocky Romero vs. Robbie Eagles
  • Bandido vs. Phantasmo
  • Will Ospreay vs. Bushi
  • Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Yoh

Smackdown and 205 Live will be taped on Tuesday at the O2 Arena in London while Raw has a house show in Paris, France. Announced for the London show is a possible Kevin Owens Show with Kofi Kingston, Finn Balor vs. Ali vs. Andrade vs. Randy Orton and Kairi Sane & Asuka vs. Mandy Rose & Sonya Deville plus for 205 Live, Tony Nese vs. El Ligero non-title and a four-way with Humberto Carrillo vs. Jack Gallagher vs. James Drake vs. Mark Andrews.

NEW JAPAN BEST OF THE SUPER JUNIORS DAY THREE IN AOMORI WEDNESDAY AT 5:30 A.M. ON NEW JAPAN WORLD

  • Yota Tsuji vs. Brody King
  • Flip Gordon & Ren Narita vs. Jado & Robbie Eagles
  • Ryusuke Taguchi & Shota Umino vs. Taichi & Desperado
  • Juice Robinson & Will Ospreay & Bandido vs,. Rocky Romero & Yoh & Toa Henare
  • Tetsuya Naito & Bushi vs. Phantasmo & Gedo
  • Jonathan Gresham vs. Taka Michinoku
  • Tiger Mask vs. Yoshinobu Kanemaru
  • Titan vs. Shingo Takagi
  • Marty Scurll vs. Taiji  Ishimori
  • Dragon Lee vs. Sho

Wednesday has Raw in Birmingham, UK and Smackdown in Magdeburg, Germany.

F4W NEWSLETTER: Figure Four Weekly: WWE introduces Wild Card rule

Coming off of an underwhelming first quarter financial report and a week of record-low ratings, this Monday’s Raw offered WWE the chance to show they understand how to fix the problem.

WWE did acknowledge that the problem exists. Hoping to help out the ratings and counter two NBA playoff games, WWE hyped that SmackDown’s Roman Reigns would be appearing on Raw. His appearance was made apparent but not actually officially announced in advance, with WWE playing up that Reigns was defying a statement they put out claiming that he couldn’t be on the show due to his obligations as a SmackDown wrestler.

WON NEWSLETTER: May 13, 2019 Observer Newsletter: AEW UK PPV details, WWE wild card rule, more

An update on AEW distribution, PPV, television and streaming, is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Look at the full distribution around the world for Double or Nothing, as well as updating where things stand when it comes to television.

Look at pricing, preshow, who is carrying it, how strong ITV 4 is, how this compares with WWE’s distribution and probable viewership, where things stand with U.K. television, details on Casino Battle Royale plans, the main championship, updating the show and lots of new signings.

Go in-depth on not just the XFL television deal and finances, but the lessons of the deal and how the deal is a 180 from the UFC deal. 

Also look at the changes in Raw and Smackdown this past week, why they were made, where NBC Universal and FOX stand, WWE star power, how the European tour affected this week’s television, how it affects touring, plus updates on the Money In The Bank show.

Also look at the 2019 Best of the Super Juniors tournament, including what matches to watch out for, the schedule, the positioning of Will Ospreay, and the schedule.

Look at the two New Japan Dontaku events, what the events say about both Japan and U.S. popularity, the story behind Okada vs. Sanada, plus match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results.

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 with Wrestling Observer Radio tonight covering Raw, AEW, New Japan Super Juniors and other topics. You can also send e-mail questions to the show to [email protected].

I haven’t watched Sho vs. Shingo Takagi yet, but have been told it was incredible earlier today in day one of Best of Super Juniors.

The first 2:00 of Being the Elite is hilarious. If you are a really defensive WWE fan you won’t enjoy it, but this was the best episode in some time, especially the Rick Knox thing.

At the WWE upfronts for NBC Universal, the Bellas claimed that Raw would remain the top show. The Bellas presented a highlight reel of Raw that featured John Cena and Ronda Rousey. I was told WWE came off kind of flat in the room. Because all the stars are in Europe, at the FOX upfronts they used Cena and Rousey. People are speculating that means Rousey returns, but they needed her here because they needed big stars that non-fans in the room would know.

Mike Johnson at PW Insider reported that Killer Kross has asked for his release from Impact. There is considerable interest outside Impact in Kross. Johnson reported Kross asked for six figures to stay but was turned down. The report said Impact offered him a new contract for three-years for less than six figures, giving him a guarantee instead of a per date contract. Kross turned down the offer and asked for his release. The company turned down the request noting he’s under contract for several more years.

WWE

  • The Raw crew will be working a 6/27 show at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, which is one of the home bases of ONE.

MISCELLANEOUS

  • The final episode of the Darkside of the Ring Series will be Wednesday night on Fabulous Moolah.
  • A feature on Steve Yohe, who may be the single most important person in the world in compiling a legitimate history of pro wrestling before 1950. Before he came along, everything was haphazard at best.
  • MCW’s Jimmy’s Slamboree on 6/1 in Joppa, MD at the CW Arena with Shawn Spears (Tye Dillinger), Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa in a show to raise money for the family of The Bruiser who is battling leukemia. You can also show support here.
  • Warrior Wrestling from last night in Chicago Heights, IL: Brian Cage (first match back from injury) won three-way cage match over Wardlow and Austin Aries to keep the title, Brian Pillman Jr. b Robert Ego Anthony which gave Pillman five minutes with Frank the Clown, Space Pirates b Ugly Ducklings, Tom Lawlor b Chris Ridgeway, Sam Adonis b Pat Monix no DQ, Volador Jr. b Gringo Loco, Penta 0M & Rey Fenix b Daga & Kotto Brazil, Tessa Blanchard b Jordynne Grace to become the first Warrior champion with Molly Holly as referee.
  • WrestleCircus from last night in Austin, TX: Dezmond Xavier b Scorpio Sky, Leva Bates (Librarian) won four-way over Shazza McKenzie, Christi Jaynes, and Alex Gracia, Zachary Wentz & Trey Miguel won three-way t take tag titles over Logan & Sterling Riegel and Gregory James & Andy Dalton, Lance Hoyt won six-way over Colin Delaney, Peter (Librarian) Avalon and Fuego del Sol, Sammy Guevara b Joey Janela (super match), Puma King b Jake Atlas, JT Dunn b Sami Callihan, Gentleman Jervis b Orange Cassidy, Sammy Guevera b Dezmond Xavier to win the cacant Ringmaster title, Scorpio Sky b Sammy Guevera in an impromptu match to win the title. The storyline is that Sky is taking their title to AEW. (thanks to Shannon Walsh at wrestlingwithdemons.net)
  • IWS on 6/22 at Club Unity in Montreal with Sabu vs. Sexxxy Eddy.
  • Empire State Wrestling on 6/1 in Fairport, NY at Village Sports with The Colony from CHIKARA and John McChesney.
  • ECCW’s 23rd anniversary show is 5/31 in New Westminster, BC at The Anvil with Jeff Cobb vs. Artemis Spencer with no time limit for the Canadian title.
  • All Star Wrestling on 6/15 in Vancouver BC at the Maritime Labour Centre with Davey Boy Smith Jr. vs. Azeem the Dream.
  • All Star Wrestling also runs 5/25 in Surrey, BC at 6050A 176th St.
  • Legacy Fighting on 6/7 from Cabazon, Ca at the Morongo Outdoor Pavilion  with Maikel Perez (6-1) facing former UFC star Brandon Moreno (14-5) for the flyweight championship. The show airs live on AXS. Former Bellator star Brandon Halsey (12-5) faces Blake Trop (8-5) in the semi.
  • KSW on DAZN on 5/18 is headlined by a match for the vacant middleweight title with Michal Materla (27-6) vs. Scott Askham (17-4) plus a welterweight title fight with Roberto Soldic (15-3) vs. Krystian Kaszubowski (7-0).
  • A group called UWF debuts on 6/23 in Santee, CA at the Carlton Oaks Country Club with Jasmin St. Clair as host featuring Buggy Nova, Ruby Raze, Black Mamba and others.
  • Superkicked on 5/17 in Toronto at the Great Hall and San Andres vs. Jake Something.
  • Joey Janela vs Slex was signed for World Series Wrestling on 6/22 in Melbourne.
  • MWE on 6/15 in Eden Prairie, MN at the Champions Hall with Tony Kozina, Mitch Paradise and Danny Duggan.
  • CZW results from Saturday night in Voorhees, NJ: Jordan Oliver & Griffin McCoy & Eliis Taylor & Charlie Tiger b Gabriel Skye & Tristen Thai & Shawn Kemp & Jonathan Wolf, Nate Carter & Dave McCall b New York Wrecking Krew, Casanova Valentine b Dan O’Hare, Matt Travis b Jimmy Rave, Jimmy Lloyd won three-way over Gary Jay and Cole Radrick, John Silver b Matt Tremont to keep the CZW title, Masada b Brandon Kirk in a tangled  web match.
  • A correction from yesterday. The 6/30 York Hall Pro Wrestling Eve show is WrestleQueendom 2, and the international title match will be a three-way with Jamie Hayter vs. Nina Samuels vs. Utami Hayashishita. (thanks to Chris Gannon)
  • Randy Couture will be starring in a pro wrestling horror movie (for some reason I think of 1999 WCW) called Manson Brothers Midnight Zombie Massacre. It’s a story about an aging brothers tag team who have fallen from the top and are now in a small promotion and must face each other in a midnight cage match on Halloween with fans who are all infected with rabies. They have to fight for their lives against the rabid fans to prevent being killed by the zombies.
  • Another wrestling horror film comes out tomorrow from InterVision Pictures called “Masked Mutilator” about a pro wrestler who accidentally kills his opponent in the ring and ends up working at a group home. A psychopath wearing a pro wrestling mask starts killing the teenagers in the rehab center. 
  • Combate Americas on 6/7 in Tucson AZ at Casino del Sol will air live on Univision and Univision Deportes. The main event is Jose Alday (12-4-1) vs. Juan Pablo Gonzalez (7-2-2) in a bantamweight fight.
  • ICW on 5/17 in Queens, NY with Sami Callihan vs. Nick Gage in a last man standing match plus Rich Swann vs. Marko Stunt and Homicide vs. Joe Gacy vs. Pinkie Sanchez vs. KTB.
  • Tatanka, Tommy Dreamer, Tony Atlas, Tito Santana, Little Guido, Snitsky and others will be wrestling on Friday night in Long Valley, NJ at the Meadowbrook Fieldhouse for East Coast Pro Wrestling.
  • Defy on 6/15 in Portland, OR a the Hawthorne Theater featuring Brian Cage, Artemis Spencer and TJP. 
  • Billy Blue River writes about his wife Beverly Shade and her PWHF induction.

Daily Pro Wrestling History: Rick Martel wins AWA World title

F4W Empire Convention Info:

  • Ed in San Antonio presents PODER~! at the FSW arena on Friday 5/24 – Showtime is at noon – Main event: Bryan Alvarez vs. Logan Stunt
  • Empire dinner on Friday 5/24 at 8:30 p.m. at Texas de Brazil – Price is $82 – All you can eat meat and salad, sodas, tea, and coffee, plus dessert included
  • Empire suite party on Friday 5/24 for those who were not able to get the Q&A package – Price is $25

Purchase tickets here. 

CONTACT INFORMATION

July 2, 2018 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: WWE announces new TV deals, more

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

WWE officially announced this week the television deals that had been reported on weeks ago, with Raw staying on Monday night on the USA Network and Smackdown moving to a live Friday night from 8-10 p.m. time slot on FOX.

The deals will run from October 1, 2019 to September 30, 2024.

The WWE released information that the total worldwide value of its television deals, which were $215 million last year (this includes both U.S. and the rest of the world), increases to $235 million this year. In 2019, with the big deals kicking in for the last three months, it would be up to $314 million.

The combination of the FOX and USA Network deals would be $435 million in 2020, $462 million in 2021, and escalate past $470 million in 2022. Right now the company is estimating $79 million for television rights outside the U.S. in 2020 and $80 million in 2021, but those numbers because of the various deals that haven’t come due, can change, meaning a projection of $542 million in 2021.

Current subscribers click here to continue reading.

WWE officially announces new TV deals for Raw and SmackDown

Posted on by Bryan Rose

WWE officially announced what had been widely reported on for the last month: SmackDown will be moving to Fox in October of 2019, while Raw will remain on the USA Network.

The company put out a press release today officially announcing the five-year agreement. SmackDown will air on Fridays starting on October 4, 2019 on the FOX network. It will remain a two-hour broadcast. 

“WWE and FOX are a perfect match,” Vince McMahon said. “Moving SmackDown LIVE to broadcast TV and having the ability to leverage FOX’s extensive portfolio of world-class sporting events will expand the reach of our flagship programming.”

Meanwhile, WWE concurrently announced that Monday Night Raw will continue on the USA Network in what is also a five-year deal with NBC Universal. It will start in October 2019.

“Monday Night Raw and USA Network have dominated Monday nights during a truly historic run,” Chris McCumber, President, Entertainment Networks for NBCUniversal Cable was quoted as saying.“Our partnership with WWE is one of the strongest and most successful in the business, and together we’ll take Raw to even greater heights.”

These agreements increase the average annual value (AAV) of WWE’s U.S. distribution to 3.6 times that of the prior deal with NBCU.