Former NWA titleholder done, assorted wrestling notes, Vince Netflix update, WWE trademark, another MLW name, AEW signings, Raw audience, Interviews with Cedric/Lilian/Moxley/Gresham/Lio, Impact matches set and Questions on RETRIBUTION, Miz cashing in, multi-man matches in AEW, Four Horsewomen, and Kacy

Allysin Kay, also known as Sienna in Impact, is now a free agent, as her NWA contract has expired. Naturally there's curiosity of where she goes next.

Impact is auctioning signed goods from Bound For Glory and Slammiversary.

Nikki Cross is on Alexa Bliss' latest podcast.

AEW's third line of action figured will feature the Young Bucks, Orange Cassidy, Darby Allin, PAC, and Riho.

Vince McMahon's Netflix documentary will be four episodes. I'm really looking forward to that.

WWE has trademarked Chigona Bomb, the name of Raquel Gonzalez' finisher.

ACH has been announced for MLW's Restart.

AEW has signed Anthony Bowens and Max Caster, who will team as The Acclaimed.

Raw drew 1.66 million viewers Monday night.

Pat McAfee and One Two joined "The Bump" today.

Cedric Alexander spoke to Sports Illustrated and TVInsider before Raw. I liked his comments about Hurt Business not being about race.

Lilian Garcia spoke to Chris Van Vliet.

Jon Moxley spoke to TVInsider before Dynamite. 

Jonathan Gresham spoke to Sports Illustrated about being Pure Champion and more. 

Lance Storm is setting up a virtual wrestling academy for the coming weeks.

Lio Rush discussed MLW with WrestlingInc. 

Turning Point has announced:

- Rich Swann vs. Sami Callihan for the World Championship

- Su Yung vs. Deonna Purrazzo in an anything goes match for the Knockouts Championship

- The North vs. Good Brothers for the Tag Team Championship

- Moose vs. Willie Mack for the TNA Championship

- Brian Myers vs. Swoggle

Impact has announced:

- Rohit Raju vs. TJP for the X-Division Championship. This is TJP's last chance at the championship

- Tenille Dashwood and Madison Rayne vs. Havok and Neveah

- Chris Sabin vs. Acey Romero

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. Honestly there might not have been an "original plan," much less an idea to use released wrestlers. Those names were cut for a reason. 

2. Unlikely. I expect they'll build Orton to face Edge at WrestleMania.

3. I like them. They serve as a good contrast to the same people doing the same things in WWE.

4. They were pushed heavily and had distinct characters. 

5. I like what I've seen of her. It's far too early to talk about big things for her future. WWE has plenty of other women to push right now. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Impact Wrestling Reax - 11/4/20

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's Impact Wrestling.

Another promotion getting FITE show, Super J Cup set, Knockout retires, assorted wrestling content, ROH alum returns to wrestling, AEW Games update, more WWE job openings, Raw team addition, and Questions on WWF's booking of WCW, RETRIBUTION's future, Riddle losing his first name, and why ratings are down

North American Wrestling Alliance will debut a weekly FITE show on January 7.

NJPWoA is holding a Super J-Cup on December 12. ROH's Rey Horus, Impact's Chris Bey, and Game Changer Wrestling's Blake Christian join ACH, Clark Connors, El Phantasmo, Lio Rush, and TJP in the one-night tournament. Cool to see that much involvement.

Kylie Rae announced her retirement as a wrestler. Surprising turn of events. I hope she's in a good place going forward.

WWE announced a custom folding chair deal. 

ROH alum John Walters has announced a full-time wrestling return. We'll see where that leads him.

Zelina Vega has launched an OnlyFans account. Interesting timing.

Zelina Vega is on Lilian Garcia's most recent podcast.

Toni Storm will be on the Swerve City Podcast this week.

WWE Network's independent additions this week:

- PROGRESS' Best of Pete Dunne

- wXw Shotgun 2020 #1

- EVOLVE 134

- ICW Fight Club 102

WWF referee Al Vass passed away at 86. PWInsider.com remembered his career. 

AEW has launched an AEW Games Twitter account.

ROH had a watch party for their most recent episode Tuesday.

Paul Heyman is on Sports Illustrated's media podcast.

Ringside Fest will be virtual this year, with Keith Lee and Liv Morgan set to attend.

WWE has posted job opportunities for:

- Producer

- Director of Operations for Strategy

- Director of Digital Platform Marketing

- Production Assistant for Documentaries

Raw's Survivor Series men's team has added Braun Strowman.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. I don't think it was realistic to expect WCW under the WWF umbrella to be a long-term venture. The feeling was that a lot of the top WCW names were overpaid and washed up/lazy, so WWF wanted to continue to build the stars and shows they were already building. As for putting Storm in Buff's place, I think that would have even further solidified the "invaders" weren't top tier names. 

2 isn't a wrestling question. 

3. In hindsight putting them under masks was probably the right move! I hope we do see those names do better post-RETRIBUTION. 

4. I'm curious if he'll get his first name back when things are figured out with his lawsuit. 

5. It's absolutely a combination of factors, but I don't think anyone will say WWE is at its height of freshness or star power right now. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Raw Reax - 11/2/20

ROH declares Pure Champion, AAA name coming to MLW, Dark lineup, WWE Network content, wrestling movie, and Questions on changing Survivor Series, Halloween Havoc not being a Takeover special, and mobile big men

Jonathan Gresham is ROH's new Pure Champion, having defeated Tracy Williams in the tournament final. 

MLW is using AAA's Laredo Kid as part of their "Restart" Fusion episodes.

Dark has announced:

- Lei'D Tapa vs. KiLynn King

- The Butcher & The Blade vs. Jersey Muscle

- Sammy Guevara vs. Lee Johnson

- Private Party vs. Chaos Project

- Griff Garrison and Brian Pillman, Jr. vs. Sean Maluta and Alex Chamberlain

- Brandi Rhodes and Red Velvet vs. Leyla Hirsch and Elayna Black

- Colt Cabana, John Silver, and Preston Vance vs. Shawn Dean, Cezar Bononi, And Fuego Del Sol

- Will Hobbs vs. D3

- Ricky Starks vs. Dave Dutra

- Alan Angels vs. VSK

- Luchasaurus and Jungle Boy vs. Danny Limelight and KC Navarro

- Darby Allin vs. BSHP King

- Evil Uno and Stu Grayson vs. Baron Black and Nick Comoroto

- Frankie Kazarian vs. Ryzin

- Max Caster and Anthony Bowens vs. Aaron Solow and Angel Fashion

Liv Morgan will be the subject of a WWE Network documentary in November.

WWE Network is adding more of Prime Time Wrestling in November.

The Undertaker will be on "Break It Down" on WWE Network this month.

Rob Van Dam, Sabu, Matt Sydal, Katie Forbes, and Tommy Chong will be in a wrestling movie. Fans are being scouted as extras for a wrestling scene.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. I'd be fine with the winning brand getting the final spot in the Royal Rumble, but I think ultimately I'd drop the concept. Honestly Survivor Series as a whole is outdated.

2 is a repeat.

3. I also think it worked well as a special TV episode, given how samey the weekly show had become. 

4. It depends on the wrestler and the match. If every other wrestler is flying around, it's good to have someone who utilizes skills the other wrestlers can't do. Of course, having someone with limited mobility work a long, plodding match isn't fun, but that doesn't mean everyone needs to have acrobatic routines. 

5. Could be a solid plan to make the event meaningful. WWE would have to commit to it, though. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Smackdown audience, WWE international TV clearance, Sarah Stock update, ROH signing angle, NXT UK trademarks, Smackdown angle update, and Impact announces a special event

Smackdown drew 2.13 million viewers for the post-Hell in a Cell episode.

WWE will now air live in Thailand for both Raw and Smackdown.

Sarah Stock's recent case has been resolved as a misdemeanor. She paid a fine as a result.

ROH announced signing Danhausen under the stipulation he win a match before the end of 2020.

WWE has trademarked NXT UK ring names Rampage Brown, Nina Samuels, and Aleah James.

After Smackdown, Daniel Bryan was "taken to a local medical facility" as a result of Jey Uso's attack.

Turning Point is set for Impact Plus on November 14. 

More wrestling coming up. 

WWE furlough update, international wrestling updates, ROH names set to return, Thunder Rosa update, WWE-Twitch updates, why Riddle lost his first name, Raw has two different endings, WWE matches announced, WCW executive interviewed, MLW return date, WWE trademarks, NXT UK signing, HoFer done with WWE, A&E documentaries, wrestling content updates, Amell injured, Impact name signs new deal, ROH angle, Smothers Memorial Fund, Survivor Series additions, Undertaker appearance, and Questions on a WCW or ECW game and Legends Roundtable

WWE expects to bring back most of its furloughed employees by the end of 2020. That's a positive sign of improvement.

Marvel and AAA are planning further integration if TripleMania goes well.

Stardom talents are hiring personal trainers to stand out in the Bushiroad era.

wXw has temporarily closed their wrestling school due to COVID.

ROH is looking to use Rush and Dragon Lee again in December. 

Thunder Rosa is expected to work further AEW dates.

WWE talents have shut down Twitch accounts due to direct orders from the company. A number of talents met with Vince McMahon to change his mind, but were unsuccessful. 

- Paige was especially upset at this move, lashing out at the company on the service. 

WWE changing Riddle's name was due to the company trying to distance themselves from negative press associated with him when his name is searched. 

Raw in Canada continued the feed past the U.S. ending, though there was no talk from the announcers.

NXT has announced Tommaso Ciampa vs. Velveteen Dream and Ember Moon vs. Dakota Kai.

WCW executive Jim Herd is being interviewed on Conrad Thompson's podcast network.

MLW Fusion returns with fresh episodes November 18.

WWE has trademarked "Then Now Forever" as well as NXT UK ring names Tyson T-Bone and Xia Brookside.

NXT UK has signed Rampage Brown.

Sting no longer has merchandise on WWE Shop, likely meaning an end to the working relationship between the two sides. We'll see where he ends up next. 

A&E will be doing documentaries on Ultimate Warrior and Bret Hart.

PAC will appear on Dynamite this week to "update his status." I don't expect to see him wrestle anytime soon, which is a shame.

Xavier Woods is doing a WWE Meet & Greet on Wednesday.

Batista is booked for a movie called "Universe's Most Wanted" that will begin shooting in the spring.

Shane Taylor is on the most recent ROH Strong podcast.

Stephen Amell injured himself during "Heels" filming while performing a stunt. Production has not been stopped. 

Impact has signed Fallah Bahh to a new contract. I'm curious what his future holds.

WWE won a SPORTEL Award for their execution of Thunderdome.

ROH announced storyline fines for Matt Taven and Vincent due to their recent attacks. 

A Tracy Smothers Memorial Fund has been setup on GoFundMe. 

Smackdown's Survivor Series women's team has added Bianca Belair.

Smackdown's Survivor Series men's team has added Kevin Owens and Jey Uso.

Smackdown has announced Sasha Banks vs. Bayley for the Smackdown Women's Championship.

The Undertaker appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

For my take on Friday's PWInsider.com questions:

Nothing to add to 1.

2. Yes, with WWE's approval. I don't expect a standalone game for either company that's been gone this many years, though. The WWE brand is much stronger.

Nothing to add to 3, 4, or 6.

5. I would think if WWE felt there was a lot of demand for the product, we could see it again. 

More wrestling coming up. 

Main Event and 205 Live Reax - 10/30/20

 Read on for my thoughts on Friday's Main Event and 205 Live.

Smackdown Reax - 10/30/20

 Read on for my thoughts on Friday night's edition of Smackdown.

WWE Q3 2020 financial Reax

WWE released their financial results from the third quarter of 2020:

- COVID cutting travel costs has greatly benefited WWE. 

- The outdated live event schedule will hopefully be revamped to be more profitable when they're able to return to arenas.

WWE held a conference call on the earnings, recapped here:

- I can't help but think the praise for the current management team is a shot at the departed co-presidents.

- I am ALL FOR a Vince McMahon documentary.

- Licensing the Network sounds like a good move.

- Cool to see localized programming in the works. I can't help but think of Ring Ka King and wonder if Jeff Jarrett is involved this, too.

- Not a shock they deflected the question about TV viewership by pointing to digital views.

- I'm very interested in the future of streaming, but TV rights are still by far the biggest driver of revenue in the business.

Stephanie McMahon is now overseeing global sales and partnerships.

More wrestling coming up.

WWE looking for music hire, assorted wrestling press, AEW talent updates, Road To special coming to TNT, Raw talent renamed, Dynamite+NXT audiences, Hager MMA result, and Questions on Reckoning's Raw behavior, Aces & 8s vs. RETRIBUTION, WWE pulling Riddle, and moving Thunderdome

WWE is seeking a music group coordinator. 

Poppy has a special Halloween Havoc T-shirt. Very cool!

Dynamite's Serena Deeb vs. Leyla Hirsch match was a replacement for Tay Conti vs. Abadon. Hirsch is expected to appear more in AEW after this appearance.

AEW will feature the team of Anthony Bowens and Max Caster more going forward.

Brodie Lee is on the latest AEW Unrestricted podcast.

World Series champions Los Angeles Dodgers received a custom WWE Championship.

Michelle McCool discussed wanting to face Charlotte Flair on The Bump. I am all for that!

Road To Full Gear will air on TNT Friday night.

Matt Riddle has been officially renamed Riddle. WWE has become a parody of itself with moves like this. The process of integrating NXT stars on other brands needs a complete overhaul. Before someone moves to Raw or Smackdown, things like ring name, look, etc. need to be finalized. Frankly, the higher-ups need to be keeping better track of what talents are being paid so much to do in NXT. If they want to make changes, it should be done earlier in the process when a talent is still "training" for what they'll eventually be on Raw or Smackdown.

Dynamite drew 781,000 for its latest episode, a pretty decent number.

Halloween Havoc drew 876,000 viewers, a very significant increase from last week's 644,000. That's even better than the weeks when they went unopposed. I'd like to think that's a message that the brand needs to be more "fun" and less about athletes winning matches and titles with little in the way of characterization.

Big Swole is on Brandi Rhodes' latest podcast.

Jake Hager won his Bellator bout by split decision. 

For my take on Thursday's PWInsider.com questions:

Nothing to add to 1. 

2. I'm starting to wonder if even WWE knows what they're doing these days. They're throwing anything and everything they can to try to get people paying attention to WWE TV.

3. Aces & 8s was definitely more of a threat and wasn't as thrown together. 

4. Previously I said they'd be lucky to make it to WrestleMania. At this point they might not make it to Royal Rumble. 

5. WWE is firmly in his corner, having been aware of this situation for years. 

6. There is interest in doing it in other states, too, though of course a lot of WWE talent and staff are local to Florida.

More wrestling coming up. 

Tracy Smothers passes at 58

Tracy Smothers passed away at 58 after a long battle with cancer. 

Smothers' career was covered by PWInsider.com. 

Smothers was remembered on social media by the following, among others:

- AAW

- Adam Pearce

- AEW

- AIW

- Arik Cannon

- Blue Meanie

- Bob Ryder

- Bobby Fulton: Tweet 1 Tweet 2

- Bryce Remsburg

- Chris Hero: Tweet 1 Tweet 2 Tweet 3

- Christopher Daniels

- C.M. Punk: Tweet 1 Tweet 2 Tweet 3 Tweet 4 Tweet 5

- Colt Cabana

- CZW

- Dave Prazak

- Eddie Kingston, who dedicated Full Gear's main event to him. 

- Edge: Tweet 1 Tweet 2 Tweet 3

- Eric Bischoff

- Ethan Page

- Frankie Kazarian

- Hurricane Helms

- Impact

- Jeff Jarrett

- Jim Ross

- Joel Gertner

- Joey Janela

- John Silver

- Katie Forbes: Tweet 1 Tweet 2

- Kevin Owens

- Matt Sydal

- Mick Foley

- Mikey Whipwreck

- Monster Factory

- Nyla Rose

- Nunzio

- NWA

- Ricochet

- Ricky Morton

- Ron Fuller

- Sami Zayn

- Santana

- Scott D'Amore

- Shark Boy

- Taz

- Terri Runnels

- Terry Funk

- Tommy Dreamer

- UCW

- Warhorse

- WWE

Highspots.com released a Tracy Smothers tribute video.

Jim Cornette discussed Smothers on his podcast.

Tom Prichard wrote about Smothers at length on PWInsider.com. 

More wrestling coming up. 

Assorted wrestling press, wrestling content updates, AEW game trademark, MLW signs new BeIN deal, AEW PPVs now on DVD, WWE executive move, AEW matches announced, Full Gear match adds stipulation, and Questions on altering the draft, RETRIBUTION, pushing Braun, Ricochet's abilities, and WWE's use of Riddle

Raquel Gonzalez promoted Halloween Havoc with PWInsider and TVInsider.

Impact Plus features Halloween content for free this week.

University of Minnesota wrestler Gable Stevenson discussed his WWE aspirations. 

The Knockout Tag Team Championship tournament begins November 17.

AEW has trademarked "AEW Games," which should tell you something about their video game plans.

MLW and BeIN Sports have signed a new deal ahead of the promotion returning to weekly TV. Court Bauer discussed this with Forbes.

Maven and Elias will be on "The Bump" next week.

Wade Barrett discussed Nexus and more. 

Shotzi Blackheart spoke to Sports Illustrated before Halloween Havoc.

Big E spoke to Sportskeeda ahead of Smackdown. 

Ilja Dragunov spoke to Inside The Ropes before NXT UK. 

AEW has released all its PPVs on DVD.

WWE has shifted its vice president of the Middle East and North Africa to be vice president of Asia and the Pacific.

Dynamite has announced:

- MJF and Wardlow vs. Sammy Guevara and Ortiz

- Cody, Billy, and Austin Gunn vs. Colt Cabana, John Silver, and Preston Vance

- Miro vs. Trent Beretta

- Scorpio Sky vs. Shawn Spears

Full Gear has added:

- Kenny Omega vs. Hangman Page for the number one contendership to the AEW Championship

- Hikaru Shida vs. Nyla Rose for the AEW Women's Championship

- Chris Jericho vs. MJF. If MJF wins, he joins Inner Circle.

- Orange Cassidy vs. John Silver on The Buy In.

If the Young Bucks lose to FTR at Full Gear, they can never challenge for the AEW Tag Team Championship again.

For my take on Wednesday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. Ideally there would be a middle ground where some movement can happen without it being too common or only happening at an arbitrary point of the year. WWE has been pretty haphazard with draft implementation, a sign of how frequently they shift gears creatively. 

2. The point of RETRIBUTION was a rather sudden idea to "make something happen" to affect ratings. Ultimately we're seeing there are reasons the talent weren't being pushed before this angle. Giving them new names and looks and putting them together didn't drastically change how they were valued by those making the booking decisions. I would be very surprised to see them last past WrestleMania, and they could easily fall apart before then. 

3. Fans would have complained he was being shoved down their throats and turned on him before six months were up. 

4. He absolutely can do more than fly around, but that's obviously his strength. I hope at some point he can grow as a character beyond that, but he's got his work cut out for him at his size. 

5. They have known of the situation for quite a while before it became this public. They are firmly in Riddle's corner. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Dynamite Reax - 10/28/20

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Dynamite.

Halloween Havoc Reax

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's special episode of NXT.

ROH Pure finals set, Lethal school adds trainer, MLW forms partnership, assorted wrestling press, Joshi name joining NXT UK, WWE trademarks, WK15 capacity, Raw audience, Interviews with Hager/Gibbs, WWE movie delayed, Impact notes, NWA title change, and Questions on Impact's lack of attention, the Rumble's status, combining titles, Vince verbiage, and watching Wednesdays

ROH's Pure Championship will be decided this weekend as Jonathan Gresham faces Tracy Williams.

Jay Lethal's wrestling school has added the former Konnor as a coach. He's definitely experienced.

MLW is now working with IWA: Puerto Rico. MLW is making waves with their partnerships.

Beyond Wrestling is canceling its 2020 events due to COVID precautions.

Meiko Satomura is joining NXT UK. She will continue to take limited outside bookings. Amazing WWE is willing to let her work internationally during the pandemic.

WWE has trademarked Ridge Holland, Sam Gradwell, Saxton Huxley, Sid Scala, and Toni Storm.

Leva Bates is on the AEW Unrestricted podcast.

Brandi Rhodes is on Ariane Andrew's latest podcast.

Wrestle Kingdom 15 will be held in front of a capacity of 20,000 fans both nights. That's still a pretty impressive number in these times.

Raw drew 1.73 million viewers, very close to last week's number. Interestingly, the big title change didn't increase ratings.

Danhausen will not work any indie shows for the remainder of 2020. Interesting move.

Dynamite had a Road To video this week.

Jake Hager discussed wrestling before his Bellator return. 

Sadie Gibbs spoke to Chris Van Vliet about leaving AEW and more. 

"Rumble" by WWE Studios is being pushed back to May 14.

Impact's demon wedding was written and produced by RD Evans.

"Impact in 60" this week has Eric Young vs. Bobby Roode. Next week's episode has Awesome Kong vs. Gail Kim.

Serena Deeb won the NWA Women's Championship on UWN Primetime Live, defeating Thunder Rosa. 

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. AXS doesn't have nearly the reach of USA, FOX, or TNT. And, yes, a lot of fans wrote "TNA" off years ago. Once something cools off and stays at a certain level for a while, it's very hard for it to rebound. 

2. I expect WWE to make every effort to hold the Royal Rumble as they usually would. It might not be in the Amway Center, though. 

3. I'm completely fine with them unifying the Raw and Smackdown tag title. 

4. Vince might never know of it. He's got a lot else to focus on. 

5. I record both to watch the next night with no commercials. NXT existed first, so I watch it first. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Impact Wrestling Reax - 10/27/20

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's edition of Impact Wrestling.

Assorted wrestling press and content, new Dynamite match, WWE trademarks former character, AEW injury, Smackdown and Talking Smack audiences, WWE concussion appeal dropped, Omega AAA title defense set, Thunderdome update, NXT name change, Survivor Series matches announced, NXT storyline update, WWE hiring once again, and Questions on Jericho-MJF, fans returning, double turns, and revamping WWE's tag division

Rhaka Khan's trial has been moved back to February 12.

The Undertaker - Last Ride documentary has been added to WWE Network's free tier. WWE is really pushing his big anniversary.

Byron Saxton is on New Day's latest podcast.

Lilian Garcia spoke to PWInsider about her podcast coming to WWE Network and more. 

Dynamite has added Eddie Kingston vs. Matt Sydal.

NFL's George Kiddle discussed Penta El Zero M on NFL Countdown.

WWE has trademarked Sin Cara. It would be quite funny to have yet another competitor under the mask. 

AEW's Abadon was hospitalized after the most recent taping as a result of her match with Tay Conti. The match is not expected to air.

WWE Network's free tier has added multiple WCW Halloween Havoc events as well as other themed content.

Dark has announced:

- Hikaru Shida vs. Leyla Hirsch

- Brandon Cutler vs. Peter Avalon

- Christopher Daniels and Frankie Kazarian vs. TheHybrid2

- Brian Cage vs. Fuego Del Sol

- Evil Uno and Stu Grayson vs. Top Flight

- Best Friends vs. Anthony Bowens and Max Caster

- Will Hobbs vs. Nick Comoroto

- Matt Sydal vs. Lee Johnson

- Ivelisse and Diamante vs. KiLynn King and Savannah Evans

- Anna Jay vs. Katalina Perez

- Preston Vance vs. Sean Maluta

- Ricky Starks vs. VSK

- Darby Allin vs. Alex Chamberlain

- Sonny Kiss vs. Aaron Solow

- Luchasaurus and Jungle Boy vs. Danny Limelight and Jersey Muscle

Smackdown drew 881,000 viewers on FS1.

Talking Smack drew 343,000 viewers on FS1. Backstage surely would have done better if it followed or preceded Smackdown.

WWE Network this week is adding:

- Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae on Swerve City Podcast

- Drew & A featuring a seance with John Edward

- Best of Timothy Thatcher in PROGRESS

- wXw We Love Wrestling #1

- EVOLVE 133

- ICW Fight Club 101

WWE's concussion lawsuit appeal has officially been denied. This has been going on for six years now. 

Kenny Omega will defend the AAA Mega Championship at TripleMania against Laredo Kid. No date has been set.

Marvel is teaming with AAA for a superhero-themed match at TripleMania. Luchadores based on Spider-Man and Captain America will face luchadores based on Thanos and Venom. WWE might as well go this route at this point.

The Rock received stitches after a workout mishap involving chains.

WWE is considering moving Thunderdome following Survivor Series, as sports are expected to return to venues soon.

NXT's Brendan Vink has been renamed Tony Modra.

Survivor Series has announced:

- Randy Orton vs. Roman Reigns in a non-title champion vs. champion match

- Asuka vs. Sasha Banks in a non-title champion vs. champion match

- Bobby Lashley vs. Sami Zayn in a non-title champion vs. champion match

- Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods vs. Street Profits in a non-title champions vs. champions match

- Raw vs. Smackdown five-on-five elimination men's match. Raw has announced AJ Styles, Sheamus, and Keith Lee.

- Raw vs. Smackdown five-on-five elimination women's match. Raw has announced Nia Jax, Shayna Baszler, Mandy Rose, Dana Brooke, and Lana.

Pat McAfee announced paying Ridge Holland to attack Adam Cole. If Ridge wasn't out for a long time, him being in a faction with Pat, Oney, and Danny would make sense.

WWE is seeking to hire writers.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. Jericho is far and away the biggest mainstream name in AEW. Casual fans will tune in to see him do just about anything, clearly. That's great for his bank account and relevancy.

2. I REALLY don't see shows suddenly being at full capacity. I could more easily see a hybrid of Thunderdome and 10 percent capacity, then Thunderdome and 20 percent capacity, and that kind of thing. As for what to start with, it will depend on what things look like from a storyline and timing perspective.

3.a. No, as they were both faces afterward.

3.b. and 3.c.  It would have to make sense in WWE's storytelling. Generally, those opportunities aren't present. 

4.a. Yes.

4.b. I guess you could do that, as weird as it sounds. Ideally a second tag title would have something distinct about it like tornado rules. 

5. HA! AEW has definitely at times made the case for WWE's way of doing things, with Jericho being a top offender.  

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Raw Reax - 10/27/20

 - Drew/Miz/JoMo:

Man I feel for Drew not having the title now.

Haha Miz on the other hand had a great night.

I am all for pushing Miz after all they've made him do over the years since he was last a top name.

Ahhhhh nice tease of history repeating itself.

These shots at Drew I love it. Fun stuff.

- AJ promo:

More good stuff.

The Raw vs. Smackdown thing is very tired, especially given how much things shift around. They might as well be WWE Red and WWE Blue or WWE Monday and WWE Friday at this point.

Damn they go IN on Jeff's drinking.

- AJ vs. Jeff:

I feel like I'm watching an old TNA show with this match.

I like this so far.

I hope Jordan can do more than stand around.

Not bad at all.

- Post-match:

Ha. Jeff always getting owned by someone.

- Truth promo:

Fine by me.

- Akira/Drew vs. Lince/Gran:

205 Live on Monday night!

Fine enough.

- Fun House:

This is such a great use of Alexa.

I really hope she gets a Fiend mask of her own.

- Keith interview:

Well I guess facing Smackdown means he won't lose to anyone on Raw.

- Nia/Shayna/Pearce:

OK.... I do like Pearce in this role.

- Elias promo:

ZZZZZZZ

- Keith vs. Elias:

I like this so far.

Paint by numbers booking. At least Keith won. 

- Post-match:

Wow first he runs Elias over and then beats him with a guitar. This man has no remorse!

- Hurt Business:

This is to remind us they're heels.

- Orton interview:

Orton vs. The Fiend could definitely be interesting.

- Business promo:

I like this mission statement.

-- Elimination match:

- Ali/T-Bar/Jack/Mace vs. Business:

This kind of feels like it was pushed off Survivor Series for the Raw vs. Smackdown theme.

I would have bought Hurt Business beating all four.

- Ali/T-Bar/Jack/Mace vs. Lashley/Cedric/Shelton:

Interesting use of Reckoning.

Lashley's a lot of fun.

- Ali/T-Bar/Mace vs. Lashley/Cedric/Shelton:

Hahaha nice.

- Ali/Mace vs. Cedric/Shelton:

That was a cool stretch.

- Ali vs. Cedric/Shelton:

HAHAHAHA wow. RETRIBUTION getting further devalued.

- Post-match:

Yikes they've really given up on thie faction.

- Angel/Rose/Dana/Nia/Shayna:

OK enough.

- Drew vs. Miz:

I'm perfectly fine with them moving on from Otis now.

Enjoyable for what it is.

Just in case anyone thought there was a chance Miz was getting a push due to the briefcase...

- Kofi/Woods/Asuka/MVP:

Wow yeah they're really throwing a bunch of stuff together quickly for Survivor Series.

OK New Day and Asuka was hilarious.

- Drew interview:

I liked that. He hasn't just moved on.

- Women's competitors:

Not crazy about this. Raw vs. Smackdown continues to be arbitrary.

- Lacey vs. Lana vs. Peyton vs. Cross:

Can't wait to see Lana go through a table!!!

This isn't bad.

Good for all it had.

- Post-match:

GODDAMN PAL SUCH GOOD SHIT!!!!!

- Orton interview:

Wow that Charly Caruso is really determined to get interviews.

They've built the maine vent segment well.

- RETRIBUTION promo:

Yeah I can't take them seriously as a threat anymore.

- Riddle vs. Sheamus:

OK I really like this. 

This is a solid match!

They work together really well.

I like this a lot. Both men are tenacious.

Good match!

- Moment of Bliss:

I love this side of Alexa.

Ha. Orton knows what's coming.

I guess we're in for a triple threat for the title?

Intriguing.

More wrestling coming up. 

Bound For Glory injuries, Taker tributes, Bump guests, Impact cameo updates, ROH names removed, and Questions on Roman's heel turn, Blood and Guts, Hardy vs. Guevara continuing, AEW's braintrust, and the Jericho-MJF musical

Heath was hospitalized after Bound For Glory, likely due to a hernia. He was originally scheduled to win the Call Your Shot gauntlet match. He's very fortunate Rhino wasn't eliminated early.

The Undertaker will be a subject of a Sony special in India on November 15. That says a lot about how big of a deal he is.

William Shatner, Michelle McCool, Izzy, Rey Mysterio, and Shotzi Blackheart are all set for "The Bump" Wednesday.

Alex Shelley was taken out of Bound For Glory due to a legitimate injury.

Tommy Dreamer got a broken tooth at Bound For Glory.

James Storm, Swoggle, and Shawn Daivari were all present for Impact TV, so it's conceivable we see them again soon.

Marty Scurll and Dan Maff have been removed from ROH's roster. That's pretty telling in the case of Scurll given how he was going to be such a prominent part of their business. That could have ripple effects for ROH's standing and partnerships.

Survivor Series will center around The Undertaker's 30th anniversary. That's intriguing!

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. I'm very much enjoying what we're seeing now. It's fresh, and it resonates with a lot of people. I can't say how it's doing with the majority of the WWE Universe or what it's meaning for business, but it certainly has people talking. 

2. They do want to return with the match at some point. AEW absolutely does not want to have a reputation of false advertisement. 

3. Someone(s) with the pull to make this happen clearly want to do more "Broken" content, so that's what we're getting. 

4. It's way too early to say. Realistically to be a top promotion it helps to have people who have experience in being in important promotions, though. Can it backfire? Sure, but so far things are going well.

5. I will give MJF credit for his musical background. Other than that, we're seeing that "All Friends Wrestling" can really be a showcase of things wrestlers with big contracts personally enjoy. Jericho is finally the top level star he's always wanted to be, and he's using the perks others in his position have used. In his defense, it's worked for ratings during a pandemic and against other prominent shows.

More wrestling tomorrow.

Hell in a Cell Reax

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's WWE Network special event.

Wrestling content updates, WWE seeking executives, Impact titleholder signs deal, WWE trademarks, assorted wrestling notes, Impact taping update, Interviews with Big E/Foley/Swann, next Impact PPV, Impact title returning, BFG note, and Questions on RETRIBUTION and the Bachelor contestant

The Boogeyman is hosting WWE's Scariest Moments on WWE Network Wednesday.

Braun Strowman will appear on Lilian Garcia's WWE Network debut podcast.

The Undertaker will be on "After the Bell" this week. This was taped in June.

WWE is looking to hire:

- a vice president of business and legal affairs for talent relations and talent development

- a vice president of business and legal affairs for entertainment

- a senior product manager in relation to virtual fan events

Rohit Raju has signed a multi-year contract with Impact. They've consistently featured him, and I would think things look even rosier now that he's locked in long-term.

WWE has trademarked ring names Akeem Young (formerly Sidney Bateman), Ivy Nile, Odyssey Jones (formerly Omari Palmer), Tony Modra, and Xyon Quinn (formerly Daniel Vidot). 

The North and Good Brothers had an angle at a whiskey launch party ahead of Bound For Glory. 

Impact held a virtual popup shop after Bound For Glory, and has others through Monday.

Impact will tape TV this week in Tennessee, and return to tape more from November 17 through November 19.

Darren Drosdov did a virtual signing with Rack Attack Promotions. 

Big E spoke to FOX Sports about New Day.

Mick Foley spoke to TalkSport. 

Rich Swann spoke to SportingNews before Bound For Glory. 

Ortiz and Santana are on the latest Talk is Jericho.

Mike Chioda has joined Conrad Thompson's podcast network.

Impact Wrestling Hard To Kill is set for January 16. The show will feature the crowning of Knockout Tag Team Champions.

Kylie Rae was not at Bound For Glory. There is no confirmation as to why.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. RETRIBUTION has been going after heels and faces. Maybe Ali expanded his work?

2. That's not as bad as them cutting a promo and then getting wiped out, right?

3. HE's a supernatural force. It's one thing to hack a show. It's another to stand up to HIM.

4. It's less expensive than them destroying equipment, etc. trying to get in. 

5. Possibly. No reason they can't do further changes to the lineup. 

6. Maybe she's going to be in RETRIBUTION????? 

More wrestling coming up. 

Bound For Glory Reax

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Impact Wrestling special event.

Hell in a Cell preview

 Read on for my ideas for booking tonight's WWE Network special event.

Assorted wrestling press, MLW debuts, ROH TV update, Impact release, AEW injuries, Fozzy concert set, Riddle lawsuit leads to talent meeting, WWE signs recent AEW wrestler, WrestlePro school reopening, Sane-WWE update, podcast notes, Teddy Hart jailed, new BFG match, Pro Wrestling Tees milestone, Interview with Big E, Impact Plus free trial, Tracy Smothers health update, new HIAC match, WWE name change, and Questions on AXXESS returning, WrestleHouse, and ICP

Havok promoted Bound For Glory with PWInsider.com. 

CMLL is back airing on Azteca America.

MLW's recent taping saw the debuts of Lio Rush, ACH, and Shawn Daivari.

ROH is looking at a December TV taping. It doesn't appear Final Battle will take place this year.

Daga was released by Impact. He hadn't been used since the pandemic, even after Impact was able to use Mexico-based talent.

Rey Fenix will not wrestle on Dynamite this week due to being hurt in his match Wednesday night. Penta El Zero M will replace him in wrestling Kenny Omega.

Fozzy is doing a livestream concert November 14.

WWE is holding mandatory talent meeting on healthy relationships in the wake of the Speaking Out movement and the Matt Riddle lawsuit. That's not a bad idea at all. 

WWE has signed Ben Carter, who recently competed on AEW Dark and Xplosion. Impressive! We'll see how he does. 

The Miz and John Morrison appeared in a WWE Cricket ad. 

The Create A  Pro Wrestling Academy is reopening with a new format. Pat Buck, LSG, Anthony Bowens, and Bobby Wayward will be the trainers. 

"Young Rock" has begun filming in Australia.

Quibi will remain active into November.

Kairi Sane is joining Japanese commentary for Hell in a Cell.

Leva Bates is on AEW Unrestricted this week.

Teddy Hart has been jailed in Texas as a fugitive from justice. It sounds like this is related to charges from a few years back.

Countdown to Glory added The Deaners vs. Wentz and Dez.

Pro Wrestling Tees has sold two million wrestling items. That's very, very impressive.

Big E was interviewed by OutKick. 

Titus O'Neil will be the grand marshal of a Florida race this weekend.

Impact Plus is free for Bound For Glory weekend. Not a bad idea to push that platform as they resume events for it.

Triple H assisted with this week's Smackdown, as well as last week's. His role now is primarily focused on expanding developmental, but obviously opening more Performance Centers is on hold during the pandemic.

Abadon was injured during Dynamite. No more details are available at this time.

Actor Bill Moseley will appear on the ROH Strong podcast this week, as will Vincent.

Tracy Smothers has started a second cancer GoFundMe.

Hell in a Cell has added Otis vs. The Miz for the Money In The Bank briefcase. Honestly I'm open to having Miz win it at this point.

Shorty G is reverting back to the Chad Gable name.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. I really don't expect it, unless the same precautions are taken with both events. 

2. Impact loved them and will almost definitely do something else in the same tone at some point. Things are kind of continuing with John E. Bravo's wedding. I could see a "season 2" down the line with different wacky characters involved. 

3. I believe they're still pretty involved! They're a duo of musicians who perform in face paint. They have a pretty unique following due to their style. 

Nothing to add to 4 or 5. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Main Event and 205 Live Reax - 10/23/20

Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's Main Event and 205 Live.

Friday Night Smackdown Reax - 10/23/20

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's Smackdown.

Bound For Glory preview

 Read on for my ideas for booking tonight's Impact Wrestling special event.

Network adds to free tier, NJPW and All Japan joint show, AEW injuries, MLW notes, Interviews with Swann/Silver, AEW musical notes, ROH preview, Dynamite+NXT audiences, more on Cena appearance, AEW taping at Hardy compound, Ryan sues ROH name, and an AEW signing

WWE Network's free version will feature all of WWE's podcast series each week.

NJPW and All Japan are teaming for a Giant Baba Memorial Show on February 4. AJPW staff will produce the show.

Alex Reynolds was legitimately out on his feet on Dynamite. Another obvious case where someone should have noticed something was wrong and gotten involved more quickly. This was a big failure by a lot of people who wanted to move to the next choreographed spot.

Rey Fenix was hurt during Dynamite as well.

MLW notes:

- The company taped content in New York in addition to the weekend taping in Florida.

- A six-man tag team championship is coming.

Rich Swann promoted Bound For Glory with PWInsider. 

Chris Jericho and MJF's musical number was a version of Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr.'s "Me and My Shadow" created in-house after AEW got a license from the relevant parties. They went to some pretty amazing lengths for that segment.

ROH's Pure Championship tournament semifinals air on TV this week.

Dynamite this week drew 753,000 viewers, down notably from last week. 

NXT this week drew 644,000 viewers, similar to what they did previously.

Eric Andre discussed getting a concussion from John Cena.

Brock Lesnar will be in the UFC 4 video game. Another power play. Get those royalties!

Full Gear's Elite Deletion match will take place at the Hardy Compound. They're really determined to keep the Broken Universe going. 

John Silver is on A Shot of Brandi.

Joey Ryan has filed a lawsuit against a former ROH wrestler for damaging his reputation through spreading malicious and false rumors as well as encouraging others to bar Ryan from bookings during the Speaking Out movement.

AEW has signed Serpentico. They are really stockpiling talent.

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Assorted wrestling content and press, Shamrock HOF induction set, Impact champion signs deal, AEW name pulled from Dynamite, Interviews with Fish/EY, OVW partnership, HoFer joins Twitter, AEW and NXT add matches, and Questions on moving the draft, Warrior, AEW statistics, and Stone Cold marketing

Big E is on "After The Bell" this week.

ROH got press for their COVID precautions. 

WCW performer Johnny Meadows has passed away following a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. Best wishes to his family.

Ken Shamrock's Impact Hall of Fame induction will air during Countdown For Glory. I wonder what things look like for him after facing Eddie Edwards.

Deonna Purrazzo has signed with Impact. It would have been pretty embarrassing if they had another titleholder leave. She's got an opportunity to really build herself there.

WWE's Superstars in Training has been nominated for a Streamy Award in the influencer campaign category.

Mick Foley, Bayley, Murphy, and Jey Uso will be on "The Bump" before Hell in a Cell.

Quibi, which featured WWE's "Fight Like A Girl" series, is closing down. It's unknown if that series will continue in another place.

Joey Janela missed Dynamite due to wrestling a talent who tested positive for COVID-19. Respect to AEW for taking precautions.

Bobby Fish promoted NXT with Wrestling Inc. 

UK's Nadia Sapphire discussed the Speaking Out movement. 

Eric Young promoted Bound For Glory with FITE.TV.

OVW has partnered with Qatar Pro Wrestling. Very interesting direction!

Terry Funk has joined Twitter. 

Full Gear has added:

- Jon Moxley vs. Eddie Kingston in an "I Quit" match for the World Championship

- Matt Hardy vs. Sammy Guevara in an Elite Deletion match

- FTR vs. Young Bucks for the Tag Team Championship

Halloween Havoc has added Cameron Grimes vs. Dexter Lumis in a Haunted House of Terror match. NXT's starting to get on the hokey side. 

Dynamite has announced:

- Cody vs. Orange Cassidy in a lumberjack match for the TNT Championship

- Kenny Omega vs. Rey Fenix in a World Championship contendership tournament match

- Hangman Page vs. Wardlow in a World Championship contendership tournament match

- Inner Circle Town Hall with MJF

- Tay Conti vs. Abadon

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. It would definitely make more sense taking place then, and offer more ways to create a new beginning. It would still be kind of watered down given how much crossover there is in a year, though. 

2. I definitely think there's a lot to be said for someone achieving success and relevancy. 

3. "Overall" includes matches from 2019, as well as things like gauntlet matches that aren't included in the other rankings.

4. Yeah, it's clearly aimed at a more casual audience that followed years ago but doesn't know about Dark Order or Jungle Boy.

Nothing to add to 5.

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Dynamite Reax - 10/21/20

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's Dynamite.

NXT Reax - 10/21/20

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's NXT.

Interviews with Heath/Sydal/Moxley/Andrew Yang/James Storm/Shamrock/Myers/Trey, assorted wrestling notes, Backstage returning, Raw audience, Elias album coming, WWE under COVID spotlight, HIAC weekend meetings, UWN notes, and Questions on RETRIBUTION's origins, impatient fans, Joe on commentary, The Nation, and an open air Rumble

Heath spoke to PWInsider to promote Bound For Glory. 

MLW is partnering with Martial-Arts Advance Research Systems to examine wrestler performance. Very interesting move.

NXT announced Tommaso Ciampa vs. Velveteen Dream vs. KUSHIDA in advance of tonight's episode.

Backstage will air after Smackdown this week, since the show will be on FS1. WWE had initially planned on doing "Talking Smack" following the show.

WWE was named PRNEWS' Corporation of the Year due to its 2019 charity work.

Drake Maverick is on Alexa Bliss' latest podcast.

Matt Sydal spoke to Chris Van Vliet. 

"Dr. D" David Schulz now has a Pro Wrestling Tees store in conjunction with Dark Side of the Ring.

Raw drew 1.78 million viewers this week.

Elias is releasing an album Monday.

WWE is being investigated in Florida for having potential COVID-19 hotspots at their tapings. Certainly those are places with large groups of people coming into close contact.

WWE has been nominated for Cynopsis Digital Awards for:

- Best Overall Social Media Marketing Campaign

- Kayla Braxton for Best Host in a Sports-Related Web Series or Channel and Best Host in a Web Series or Channel

- WWE 24: Kofi Kingston's Journey to Becoming UpUpDownDown Champion for Best Companion Video for TV Show and Best Short Form Comedic Video

- Edge and Kofi Kingston's WWE 24 episodes for Best Documentary (Single or Series)

- R-Truth Game Show for Best New Web Series and Best Web Video or Series

- Survivor Series' UpUpDownDown Championship live stream for Best Branded Integration in a Web Series

- UpUpDownDown for Best Category-Specific YouTube Channel

- After The Bell and Feel The Power for Best Podcast/Audio Series

- Best COVID-19 Awareness Campaign (with Americares)

- Best Short Form Video with a Social Good Message (with UNICEF USA)

WWE virtual meet and greets this weekend include AJ Styles, Rhea Ripley, Kevin Owens, Kofi Kingston, and Johnny Gargano.

Jon Moxley discussed Bloodsport on The Fight Game Podcast.

Andrew Yang is on the most recent Talk is Jericho. Wrestling is discussed, so I included this news.

James Storm discussed training with Ronda Rousey. 

Ken Shamrock was profiled by Yahoo! Sports before Bound For Glory. Very cool to see him being honored.

Brian Myers promoted Bound For Glory with Newsday. 

The UWN Championship tournament will include AEW's Peter Avalon, NJPW's Karl Fredericks, the former Rowan, and Davey Boy Smith, Jr.. Good to see a variety of talent involved.

D'Angelo Dinero is the new UWN TV Champion.

Trey Miguel promoted Bound For Glory with PWInsider.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. Honestly if anything I think it would be a response to social unrest in the U.S.

2. I do think a lot of people want to know and judge everything immediately, especially in the social media age. There are plenty of armchair bookers, too, and that includes me.

3. I would expect so. 

4. I definitely think you can induct the group for what its members accomplished. It was formed as a way to elevate Rock and Henry by putting them with veterans.

5. I'm sure they would love to run a larger venue with live fans, but I don't see them changing just for the Rumble unless it's safe to do so. I'm surprised they've been willing to restrict things as much as they have as long as they have. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Impact Wrestling Reax - 10/20/20

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's edition of Impact Wrestling.

WWE Network content updates, DSOTR official, assorted wrestling press, Interviews with Good Brothers/Elias/Callihan, Charlotte signs representation deal, Hager competing again, MLW using official from scandal, new WWE PPV match, and Questions on this year's draft, Lars vs. Roman, and Asuka vs. Lana

Sasha Banks is on New Day's latest podcast.

Lilian Garcia's podcast is coming to WWE Network.

Drew McIntyre is bringing his "Drew & A" series to WWE Network. His father and paranormal investigator Jason Hawes are the first two guests.

WWE Network this week is adding:

- The Best of Hell in a Cell

- The Greatest Independent Steel Cage Matches

- The Best of Ilja Dragunov in PROGRESS

- wXw We Love Wrestling from March 8, 2020

- ICW Fight Club 100

"Dark Side of the Ring" has officially been given a 14-episode third season. It's going to be tough to fill that many episodes, so we'll see how they do.

Scott D'Amore is personally thanking fans ordering Bound For Glory on FITE.TV. That's pretty cool of him.

The Good Brothers were profiled by Entrepreneur.

Masked Republic has added new executives.

Charlotte Flair has signed a management deal with Vayner Sports. We could be seeing a lot of her for years and years, much like her father.

WWE has trademarked NXT UK names Mark Andrews, Oliver Carter, and Piper Niven.

Paige publicly marked two years of sobriety. Great to see!

Elias spoke before Raw. He's right back where he's always been as a character. Rinse and repeat!

Sami Callihan spoke to Slam! Wrestling to promote Bound For Glory. 

Jake Hager will compete for Bellator on October 29. 

MLW will begin using former NBA official Tim Donaghy, who was linked to a betting scandal there. Very "Attitude Era" of them.

Hell in a Cell has added Jeff Hardy vs. Elias.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. That wouldn't be much of a draft. I would like to see something different from what we got this year, though. A lot of it feels like the same people doing the same stuff on different nights, which is the opposite of a fresh start.

2. There are a lot of things they just kind of throw together to theoretically have a small boost. 

3. I'm sure it's much easier to just keep booking what they were booking instead of coming up with a lot of fresh ideas. That's where WWE is right now. 

4. I'm sure they'll be kept apart for a good while. 

5. Seemingly it was to segue to something involving Asuka, Shayna, and Nia. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Raw Reax - 10/19/2020

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's Raw.

Assorted/international wrestling press and Questions on NXT admitting defeat, Hulu edits, draft rules, wrestler autographs, and booking Ricochet

Lucha star Principe Aereo passed away at 26 during a wrestling match, apparently from a heart attack. 

Wrestle Kingdom 15 will span two nights. I'm very curious what attendance looks like during the pandemic.

Kota Ibushi won G1 Climax 30, his second-straight win of that event.

CZW's November compilation events will be CZW: No Disqualifications and CZW Girlz: Beauty vs. The Beast.

Impact Plus has added events from Lariato and Alpha-1. 

Collective wrestler Tony Deppen tested positive for COVID-19. He recently worked for ROH, so it's possible he was pulled from their plans after this.

Braun Strowman appeared at a bike rally in Florida.

Big Show was nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the Eastern European International Film Festival.

Jack Brisco got local press. 

Mexico's Nuevo Leon has banned wrestling shows due to COVID.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. Honestly at this point it feels like NXT is being treated about like Main Event or 205 Live. It's clear it has settled into a certain level of an audience with the same cast of wrestlers. WWE makes so much money with Raw and Smackdown that they can afford to do stagnant shows with niche appeal. 

2. The replays are always shorter, and the less important things get edited out. 

3. "USA" and "FOX" wanted everyone available in the draft, I guess. Just in case "they" changed their minds about where they wanted someone. Honestly I'd drop the draft at this point since the shows interact so much as it is. The only thing I would consider is if it's a week where Raw and Smackdown can (and do) sign talent from NXT, but, again, talents are already being called up on a whim. 

4. Obviously a good number of actors don't use their birth names, Disney mascots sign under their character names, and there are musicians using stage names, so it's not just a wrestling thing. 

5. Honestly I would have drafted him to a different brand. He's in a rut on Raw. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Network content updates, MLW updates, Smackdown audience, Dark lineup, more NXT UK trademarks, Jarrett appearance set, Ronda trains, Becky update, Interview with Sheamus, and Questions on reality stars in wrestling, missing attending wrestling, Thunderdome continuing, and HIAC in the Dome

WWF Superstars episodes from May 1993 through July 1993 are being added to WWE Network this week.

"After The Bell" video versions are coming to WWE Network starting this week.

Swerve City Podcast will no longer feature AEW's Big Swole as it comes to WWE Network. Ouch. Can't say I expected WWE to allow her to be there, but it's a shame she lost the spot.

MLW notes:

- Parrow has joined the roster. 

- Alex Greenfield is returning as a producer and other behind-the-scenes rules.

- A&E's Biff Lawson has also joined as a producer.

Smackdown drew 1.99 million viewers for the season premiere. We'll see how the Draft affects them going forward.

Dark has announced:

- Christopher Daniels vs. Shawn Spears

- Luchasaurus vs. Aaron Solow

- Brandi Rhodes vs. KiLynn King

- Colt Cabana vs. Bshp King

- Matt Sydal vs. Shawn Dean

- Diamante and Ivelisse vs. Skyler Moore and Kenzie Paige

- Jungle Boy vs. KTB

- Frankie Kazarian vs. Jack Evans

- Penta El 0M vs. QT Marshall

- The Butcher and The Blade vs. Brian Pillman, Jr. and Griff Garrison

- Alan Angles vs. Adam Priest

- Scorpio Sky vs. Fuego del Sol

- Ricky Starks vs. David Ali

- John Silver, Alex Reynolds, and Preston Vance vs. Baron Black, D3, and Louis Valle

- Wardlow vs. Vinnie Pacifico

WWE has trademarked NXT UK ring names Dominick, Jinny, Johnny Saint, Joseph Conners, Kenny Williams, and Levi Muir.

Jeff Jarrett will appear on Hell in a Cell Kickoff.

Ronda Rousey and James Storm trained together recently. Ronda remains under WWE contract through WrestleMania.

Becky Lynch was backstage at Smackdown.

Sheamus spoke to Sports Illustrated. 

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

Nothing to add to 1.

2. If they're seriously interested in contributing, WWE could consider it. 

3. Not greatly, as I don't attend much live. 

4. I expect they will. 

5. I'm sure they have it figured out. I'm curious what things will look like. Maybe they pre-tape all the Cell matches and just air them at different points throughout the night?

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Lars note, Draft note, Alberto update, AEW considering AAA names, new Japanese promotion, MLW preparations, ROH titleholder's deal expiring soon, more on Riddle situation, assorted wrestling press, NJPW preparing to use outside talent, Collective update, Interviews with Heyman/Kevin Kelly/Greenberg/Roman, Gauntlet for the Gold competitors, MLW signing, NXT coach back, NXT tryouts, NXT re-signs recent name, more on CWC, 205 Live note, more Network content, ROH names returning, Raw segment set, Smackdown moved next week, and Questions on a WWE reality show and more WWEPCs

Lars Sullivan battled an infection after his knee surgery, which kept him out longer than initially anticipated.

Big Show was not drafted as he is considered retired. Make all the jokes you want about how long that lasts.

Alberto El Patron is no longer linked to Combate Americas. I can't say that's a surprise.

AEW is interested in AAA's Taurus, El Hijo del Vikingo, and Laredo Kid. Laredo is set to challenge Kenny Omega for the AAA Championship, which could happen in AEW. Obviously COVID will hamper some of that planning.

Japan has debuted a promotion called Gleat, which features wrestlers with legitimate fighting and wrestling backgrounds doing matches similar to that style.

MLW is taping TV this week. 

Dragon Lee's ROH contract expires December 1. He is not being used as a pandemic precaution despite being TV Champion.

Matt Riddle's accuser was removed from two NXT bookings earlier this year. The stated reason was due to past issues with a current talent. 

Davey Boy Smith, Jr. was filmed by WWE at Bloodsport as part of upcoming documentary footage on his father.

OTT released a Ryan Smile tribute video.

NJPW is looking to use outside talent at Wrestle Kingdom. Naturally AEW is the obvious place to look, though other options are also possible.

The Collective is advising those who attended to be tested for COVID-19. 

Paul Heyman spoke to TVInsider before Smackdown. Vintage Heyman.

Bound For Glory's Gauntlet for The Gold has announced Heath, Rhino, Hernandez, XXXL, Tenille Dashwood, Taya Valkyrie, Brian Myers, Tommy Dreamer, and Havok. Ten remaining competitors will be announced the day of the show.

MLW has signed Bu Ku Dao.

Ace Steel has returned as an NXT coach.

NXT recently had tryouts for Colby Corino, Anthony Henry, and Blake Christian.

NXT has re-signed Tino Sabbatelli. 

Capitol Wrestling Center fan footage is repurposed from Thunderdome tapings. WOW. Interesting move. I can't help but think they aren't confident they'd have a lot of people sign up for NXT's version or if they feel it would be hijacked by AEW fans. 

NXT attendees are invited fans who were regulars at Full Sail.

205 Live is under the direction of Dewey Foley. 

WWE Network announced:

- The Undertaker vs. Randy Orton on WWE Untold October 25

- Meeting Mark Calaway November 1

- A Paul Bearer documentary November 8

Kevin Kelly discussed NJPW and more on VOC Nation's In The Room podcast. Here are highlights. AXS was willing to keep NJPW if they worked with Impact. 

Swerve City Podcast is coming to WWE Network October 23. Drew McIntyre will be the first guest. I wonder if this is partially a response to the third party edict thing.

PCO is at ROH's taping this week, the first international star brought in since the pandemic. Maybe things are slowly getting back to normal there.

Tracy Smothers has been hospitalized with non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

Washington Post covered a hardcore show in New Jersey. 

Keith Elliot Greenberg discussed Vince McMahon and Paul Heyman.

Roman Reigns promoted Smackdown in New York. 

Raw has added Firefly Fun House.

Smackdown will air on FS1 next week due to the World Series.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

Nothing to add to 1, 2, 3, or 6.

4. I almost jokingly said the McMahons, but I do think a documentary on the people who put the shows together could be very interesting. What's it like working in Titan Tower, for instance?

5. They absolutely have plans to do so. That is Triple H's long-term goal.

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Main Event and 205 Live Reax - 10/16/20

Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's Main Event and 205 Live.

Friday Night Smackdown Reax - 10/16/20

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's edition of Smackdown.

Havoc gimmick match possibilities, WWE Network getting new podcast, WWE documentary at film festival, assorted wrestling press, Dynamite+NXT audiences, COVID positives affect ROH, and Questions on Lawler wrestling and Liger's future

Spin The Wheel, Make The Deal options include a Biker's Chain Match, Blindfold Match, Boiler Room Brawl, Buried Alive Match, Casket Match, Chamber of Horrors Match, Coal Miner's Glove on a Pole Match, Devil's Playground Match, Shotzi's Choice Match, TLS, Trick or Streetfight, and a Weapons Wild match. Most of those seem out of place in NXT, but maybe that's the point. NXT is shifting to embrace the past more. 

Sam Roberts is getting a weekly WWE Network podcast, unrelated to his current endeavors. I'm curious what that will look like and how it will go.

wXw wrestler Karsten Beck passed away at 34 due to brain cancer. Very sad news.

WWE's Brothers of Destruction documentary will debut at the Austin Film Festival ahead of appearing on WWE Network. Intriguing idea to reach a different audience.

Mattel held a fan poll for an Ultimate Warrior figure design.

Randy Savage has a custom WWE Championship for sale.

Braun Strowman promoted Smackdown on the BJ & Migs podcast.

Roman Reigns spoke to CBS Sports. I've really enjoyed the Jey Uso feud. It's logical.

Dynamite drew 826,000 viewers this week. It's interesting there wasn't a huge boost for all the title matches and hype.

NXT drew 651,000 viewers this week. They're being soundly beaten every week. I'm really surprised no drastic changes have been made.

The Collective has seen two more COVID-19 positive tests. That's worrisome.

Sonny Kiss is on Brandi Rhodes' podcast this week.

ROH has removed a number of talent from this week's TV taping due to them being involved with The Collective, following multiple confirmed COVID-19 diagnoses from that weekend's events.

- Danhausen has confirmed he will not compete at the taping as initially scheduled due to working The Collective. 

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

Nothing to add to 1, 2, 4, or 5.

3. It was an important milestone for him. They put together a pretty significant show. And obviously a good number of people are ready to get out of the house and watch wrestling, whether that's advisable or not. 

6. He's a producer. I could see him being more important when he's able to travel and be part of NJPWoA. I don't believe he will wrestle again, and he already worked Madison Square Garden on G1 Supercard. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Interviews with Toni/Cody/Jungle Boy/Roman/McIntyre/Mox, WWE trademarks, another NXT return?, wrestling content updates, MLW note, assorted wrestling press, indie weekend sees COVID positive, AEW and NXT matches made, Gable honored, AEW name cleared, and Questions on drafting titleholders, Austin attacks, AJ vs. Roman, and WWE in the UK

Toni Storm spoke to PWInsider before NXT.

WWE has trademarked:

- Saturday Morning Slam, which briefly aired on CW Network years back. It's expected this means the series is soon coming to WWE Network.

- NXT UK ring names Flash Morgan Webster, Ilja Dragunov, Isla Dawn, and Jack Starz. 

- Triple H nicknames The Game and Skull King

Andrade is being considered to return to NXT. He might as well at this point. How many more examples do we need that that system is doing a terrible job grooming future stars for Raw and Smackdown?

Mansoor was revealed as The Bump's masked wrestler.

Lilian Garcia and Damian Priest will be on The Bump next week.

Shayna Baszler is on "After The Bell" this week.

Cody spoke to ABC before Dynamite. I agree about AEW being authentic. It's not something that's been decided upon by 15 writers.

- He also spoke to TVInsider. I like his reflection about early stumbles on his vision for AEW not coming to pass. Also, smart words about which fans are worth paying attention to.

Jungle Boy spoke to FOX News before Dynamite. 

OVW will begin airing on Game+ this Sunday.

MLW's returning tapings will have a select number of fans in attendance.

WWE named an official beer for Summerslam as part of a new marketing agreement. Didn't expect that out of a PG company!

Roman Reigns appeared on ESPN's "First Take."

WrestlePro Alaska announced an April tour.

The Collective has seen a COVID-19 positive test result. That's obviously worrying.  

Drew McIntyre is on the Sports Guys Talking Wrestling podcast.

UK wrestler Ryan Smile has passed.

Jon Moxley spoke to Sports Illustrated before Dynamite. Good sell for their match. Moxley's been a strong centerpiece.

- He also spoke to Reel Talker. 

Dynamite has announced:

- Rey Fenix vs. Penta El Zero M in an AEW World Championship contendership tournament match

- Kenny Omega vs. Joey Janela in an AEW World Championship contendership tournament match

- Hangman Page vs. Colt Cabana in an AEW World Championship contendership tournament match

- Wardlow vs. Jungle Boy in an AEW World Championship contendership tournament match

- Young Bucks vs. The Butcher and The Blade vs. John Silver and Alex Reynolds vs. Party in a Tag Team Championship number one contenders' match

Dan Gable will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Halloween Havoc has announced:

- Io Shirai vs. Candice LeRae for the NXT Women's Championship in a Spin The Wheel, Make The Deal match

- Damian Priest vs. Johnny Gargano for the North American Championship in a Spin The Wheel, Make The Deal match

- Rhea Ripley vs. Raquel Gonzalez

Matt Hardy has been cleared to return to action. It appears he will face Sammy Guevara again.

Dynamite's October 28 episode has announced Cody vs. Orange Cassidy in a TNT Championship match.

Full Gear has added Darby Allin challenging for the TNT Championship

NXT has announced Breezango vs. Roderick Strong and Bobby Fish for the NXT Tag Team Championship.

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. It wouldn't be much of a draft if champions weren't eligible to switch shows. People would complain it's too predictable they won't draft the titleholders.

2. Yeah both were great in different ways. 

3. Another overreaction from someone looking to complain. 

4. An angle playing off wrestling reporting and Internet comments sounds very, very niche. 

5. If Tyson Fury and/or Conor McGregor are on the card, I think it could work. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Dynamite Reax - 10/14/20

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's episode of Dynamite.

NXT Reax - 10/14/20

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's NXT.

WWE "free agents" updated, Brisco's next move, WWE trademarks, Raw wrestler loses tooth, AEW signing, Interviews with Cody/Shaul/MVP/Baker/Black/Jericho/Raju, Alberto update, Ryan sues Impact, assorted wrestling updates, Raw audience, former Impact champion debuts in UWN, Impact matches, and Questions on Raw Underground's status, Buddy and Aaliyah, NXT talents returning to the indies, and AEW stars working with veterans

WWE announced free agent signings:

- Raw has signed Erik of the Viking Raiders.

- Smackdown has signed Billie Kay

- Smackdown has signed Tamina

- Smackdown has signed Zelina Vega. Well, that's definitely a change for her, Andrade, and Angel. It's worth a shot. 

Gerald Brisco is launching a podcast, "Monday Mailbag with Gerald Brisco." That's a very weak name.

WWE has trademarked Livewire and WWE Main Event. Livewire in 2020 would really be something to see. A trainwreck waiting to happen.

Natalya had a tooth knocked out during Raw's battle royal.

Ivelisse announced she has signed with AEW. They've got a lot of people there to use on a second show.

Cody promoted Dynamite's anniversary show:

- He's really reflective of his role as a decisionmaker in AEW.

- Really interesting talk about not changing "indie" characters, when obviously others have taken a very different approach once someone hits national TV.

- I've enjoyed the use of legends in AEW. I wish they'd take the same approach with Chris Jericho and Matt Hardy!

- Very, very interesting talk about not having a joint show.

Shaul Guerrero spoke to Alicia Atout. 

Mia Yim trademarked that ring name. Interesting move after the third party edict.

Alberto El Patron's trial is set for January 25.

Joey Ryan is suing Impact for breach of contract, to the tune of ten million dollars, for ending his deal without allowing him to attempt to dispute the allegations against him. Ryan argues that his contract stipulated he be given time to respond to any attempt at terminating him. He might have a case for breaching his deal, though I wouldn't think he would get that much money out of it.

WWE Network's free version has added Hell in a Cell events dating back to 2009.

MVP spoke to SportBible. Honestly a lot of talent can learn from his promo ability. It's been sorely missing in the NXT generation.

Ryan Cabrera is on Alexa Bliss' latest podcast.

Raw drew 1.86 million viewers for the draft's second night, a boost from last week. Realistically even a grand slam of a show wasn't going to top two million. It's going to take a lot of work to improve things.

Bubba Ray Dudley, Otis, and Joel McHale were on "The Bump." I have been very glad that's the extent of WWE content Bubba is on in 2020.

Britt Baker spoke to UpRoxx before Dynamite. AEW is seeing that the same hypercritical fans who pick apart every second of WWE TV are now doing the same in regard to their women's division.

Aleister Black spoke to Sports Illustrated. 

Chris Jericho spoke to Chris Van Vliet. 

Rohit Raju spoke to Sports Illustrated. 

James Storm debuted for United Wrestling Network this week, competing in a triple threat match with the former Darren Young and Chris Masters.

United Wrestling Network will declare its first champion in an eight man tournament.

Impact has announced:

- Eddie Edwards vs. Sami Callihan

- Rhino vs. Hernandez vs. Heath vs. Cousin Jake vs. Alisha Edwards for the 20th entrant in Gauntlet for the Gold

- Good Brothers vs. The North

- Rohit Raju, Chris Bey, and Jordynne Grace vs. Willie Mack, TJP, and Trey Miguel

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. I assume it was due to not wanting to mix the CWC wrestlers and the Thunderdome wrestlers as a contagion precaution. I liked it OK. Dave is again deliberately missing what was clearly stated. Raw Underground is a place where there aren't formal rules. You're not trying to pin your opponent for a three count. There's no referee. Etc. It's the difference between playing 21 with no fouls called compared to an NBA game. 

2. That age difference is going to raise eyebrows, even if it is completely legal. 

3. It's always been the case where talent who aren't utilized in WWE can use the level of interest they got there to make more money outside WWE. Though this again brings up the question: if "developmental" isn't preparing talents for how Raw and Smackdown book, is it really developing the talent? If not, why does it exist? 

4. No. 

5. They can and do train with those talents before their matches. As for having more matches, AEW is working on another TV show and, as far as I know, continuing to put together plans for a system of training wrestlers. Obviously COVID has affected both. 

More wrestling tomorrow.

Impact Wrestling Reax - 10/13/20

 Read on for my thoughts on last night's Impact Wrestling.

Assorted wrestling press, GLOW update, Interviews with Swoggle/MVP/Zayn, DSOTR topics, Thunderdome lease continued, BFG adds gauntlet, former WWE name returning, more Network additions, ROH taping set, another draft move, WWE matches announced, ROH gimmick revealed, Finn update, WWE trades titles, WWE return on Raw, and Questions on two nights of Drafts, talents making their way up the card, good gimmick matches, RETRIBUTION as an indictment of NXT, and heels and faces not wrestling each other

"Impact in 60" will feature street fights this week.

GLOW stars are pushing for a movie to serve as a finale for the series.

WWE's YouTube channel has passed 50 billion views. That's very big!

Hornswoggle is on New Day's latest podcast.

MVP is on Lilian Garcia's latest podcast.

"Dark Side of the Ring" has begun filming a third season. Topics worked on include Grizzly Smith, Brian Pillman, and WCW in North Korea. That last one could really be great. Absolutely surreal situation.

WWE sent a custom championship to the NBA champions.

WWE has extended their lease in Thunderdome through the end of November. I can't say I'm surprised at that. I'm sure they wanted to do something bigger for Survivor Series, but it's seemingly not feasible right now.

Bound For Glory has added a Call Your Shot Gauntlet match, with the same rules as last year. That could be fun.

Eva Marie has signed a deal to return to WWE. She was present at Raw. I really can't say I saw that coming, but we'll see how it plays out. 

Yokozuna is on WWE Network's latest Best Of.

NASCAR's Daniel Suarez is on "The Bump" this week.

WWE Network's independent additions this week are:

- The Best of Aleister Black in PROGRESS

- wXw We Love Wrestling #1

- EVOLVE 132

- ICW Fight Club 99

"Total Bellas" returns November 12.

ROH will tape more TV episodes this week at the same site as the last taping. 

Sami Zayn spoke to Metro about his return and more. Pretty interesting discussion about making WWE fresh. It's a lot easier said than done changing the status quo.

Stone Cold will be the subject of a WWE book due March 16, chronicling 316 facts.

Shorty G was drafted to Smackdown before Raw came on the air. That says all you need to know about his value right now. Just send him to NXT or cut him at this point.

Eve Torres has tested positive for COVID-19. I wish her and those close to her the best. 

Smackdown has announced Lars Sullivan vs. Jeff Hardy in Lars' first match since June 2019. This is also Jeff's "farewell" from Smackdown after being drafted to Raw.

Matt Taven was revealed as ROH's "Follow The Trend" angle. So EC3 and Matt Taven will presumably be focal points at the next taping.

Finn Balor had surgery for his broken jaw. Since Adam Cole lost the championship, we've had one champion leave NXT and two more get injured. Surreal.

WWE switched the Raw Tag Team Championship with the Smackdown Tag Team Championship as a result of the draft. New Day are now the Raw champions, while Street Profits are now the Smackdown champions. If there was ever any doubt the titles were just props on a TV show, this silenced them.

Elias returned on Raw, attacking Jeff Hardy. I actually like the continuity of the Jeff Hardy DUI angle. 

Raw has announced:

- Elias holding a concert

- Keith Lee vs. Braun Strowman

- Asuka vs. Lana for the Raw Women's Championship

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. To give Smackdown a boost. Its audience level is higher than Raw's now. It's no longer the B show. 

2. I agree 100%. If a talent debuts in the WWE title picture, they can only go down from there. Cue the many, many complaints about Keith Lee in this column. 

3. To me, the best gimmick matches are the ones that have a reason to exist and are specific to that feud. They're not put there just to keep a story moving or attempt to drive interest; they feel like a logical stage of a heated rivalry. 

4. That's kind of what they have now, although I think they could go even further with it given the number of talents meandering in NXT barely getting TV time. It's becoming increasingly clear NXT was being carried by not having the pressure of ratings or having talents there long-term. The people who overhyped earlier NXT as a blueprint for Raw and Smackdown should really examine just how badly things have fallen with their niche approach. 

5. I completely agree heel vs. heel and face vs. face (and tweeners) can work if done well. There are people who don't get along who can have reason to band together if their survival is threatened. Things were really hurt by the mentality that everyone on the same "side" gets along and are more or less interchangeable as characters. 

More wrestling tomorrow. 

Raw Reax - 10/12/20

Read on for my thoughts on last night's Raw.

Assorted wrestling press, Raw updates, BFG match set, Interview with Priscilla, and Questions on the Capitol Wrestling Center, GLOW being canceled, another bizarre Keith Lee take, evaluating Tony Khan as an owner, and Joe's future as an announcer

The Fiend has a Christmas take on Elf on a Shelf. And there it is. Our first Christmas-related story. In Mid-October.

Seth Rollins will appear on Raw tonight for a "farewell" appearance.

Bound For Glory has added Ken Shamrock vs. Eddie Edwards. I look forward to that.

WWE Network won Hashtag Sports' Best OTT or Streaming Experience award.

FOX's Best of 2020 special will air again early Wednesday on FS1.

Priscilla Kelly spoke to Slam! Wrestling.

Raw has added a women's battle royal to determine Asuka's next challenger. Talent from Raw and Smackdown are both eligible. 

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. Not at all - they wanted to keep the CWC logo and abbreviation. This was probably a Triple H call, and he's fine with words like wrestling and cruiserweight.

2. Seemingly they're just not willing to go to those lengths for the show. 

3. Embarrassing take, honestly. The man debuted in the WWE Title picture. If that's being mishandled, almost everyone in the business would like to be mishandled. 

4. I definitely think he is sincere with his appreciation for wrestling, which goes back decades, and how he thinks it is done best. I can see the idea that he's in over his head or naive, however.

5. It really comes gown to his goals in the business. Does he want to be at the announce desk three years from now, or does he want to see what he has left in him as a wrestler? Of course he doesn't want to miss out on a good -paying, consistent role, but he might be willing to risk that for doing more of what he got into the business for while he still can.

More wrestling tomorrow. 

International and indie updates, UK investigating wrestling, Draft continues on Talking Smack, Smackdown audience, Draft change, Interviews with Ember, and Questions on AOP's future, Chelsea Green, and AEW's second TV show

 Stardom notes:

- Their October 3 was a live PPV, and a sellout of more than 1,000 fans.

- Tokyo Cyber Squad splitting was something pushed for by those in the group, due to the pressure of being in the group founded by Hana Kimura.

- TJPW stars Mina Shirakawa and Natsumi Maki (now wrestling as Natsupoi) joined the promotion after their TJPW deals ended days earlier.

- Kairi Sane was backstage. 

Chael Sonnen will appear at Bloodsport as a manager.

C.M. Punk will announce Caged Fury Fighting Championships events on October 29 and October 30.

The UK has formed an all-party parliament group to make the wrestling business safer in terms of sexual misconduct and COVID-19.

MLW will have another episode produced by Salina de la Renta when their show returns.

WWE added Draft-related content to GIPHY.

The WWE Draft continued on Talking Smack:

- Raw chose Humberto Carrillo

- Smackdown chose Murphy

- Raw chose Drew Gulak

- Smackdown chose Kalisto

- Raw chose Tucker

Smackdown drew 2.09 million viewers for night one of the draft. That's not much of a boost at all. Maybe fans "see through" the draft gimmick at this point. There were also some grudge matches that had been pushed for the episode that didn't increase viewership. WWE needs a lot more than a shuffling of the rosters at this point.

WWE originally had The Miz and John Morrison in the second night's draft pool, while Elias was moved from the first night's. Again, it feels more and more like they're making things up as they go.

Ember Moon spoke to Comicbook.com and Daily DDT about returning to NXT. Big shoutout to Edge offering her advice on recovery.

Randy Orton paid tribute to Eddie Guerrero.

Josh Barnett discussed Bloodsport. 

For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:

1. AEW might be a little crowded with tag teams, but they would be a unique fit there. I could see Impact making them a good deal, though. It could depend on how much work they get outside of their home promotion (NJPW for instance).

Nothing to add to 2 or 5.

3. Seemingly WWE was going to move her to Raw or Smackdown, but changed their minds and now she's stuck while they figure out her next move.

4. I greatly expect they won't go against Raw, Smackdown, or the NFL. Other than that, I don't know. I'm curious what happens to Dark's timeslot when it does debut. 

More wrestling tomorrow.