NJPW World now has Hiroshi Tanahashi's movie with English subtitles.
NJPW has released more USA tour matches.
Lilian Garcia's latest podcast has more from Lita, Gail Kim, and Christy Hemme.
Maria Manic discussed Teddy Hart's most recent arrest. This is a very sad situation.
Drew McIntyre promoted WrestleMania in the UK. I hope that international appeal helps his push.
Edge promoted WrestleMania on ESPN. Very, very good piece.
"The Gathering" convention will be returning to North Carolina in August.
Roman Reigns discussed pulling out of WrestleMania and more.
G1 Supercard 2019 will stream on ROH's YouTube channel Sunday. Wow that show feels forever ago as far as how much things have changed for ROH.
WWE will do a "Where are they Now?" episode on Snitsky and Eva Marie Thursday.
Rhea Ripley discussed her musical and stylistic influences.
WWE's best rivalries were discussed on ESPN.
Aleister Black and Zelina Vega have launched a YouTube channel. That's an interesting mix for sure.
AEW has announced a TNT Championship that will be determined in an eight-man tournament. The finals will be held at Double or Nothing. The tournament begins on the next edition of Dynamite, and competitors will be announced on this week's Dark and Dynamite. I'm curious what they do with it. It can certainly be a meaningful part of the broadcast.
NJPW has canceled their New Zealand tryouts scheduled for May due to the coronavirus.
WWE has trademarked "I Was Home" in relation to WrestleMania 36. Very funny!
- WWE has also trademarked "WWE Dream Match Mania" in relation to the WWE 2K match compilation.
WrestleMania 36 has officially added the Kabuki Warriors vs. Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross for the Women's Tag Team Championship. It had been heavily rumored that Beth Phoenix and Natalya were going to be competing for the title. That certainly was never hinted on TV.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I would think more people would watch it during the evening.
2. I believe the tentative HoF plan is to do the ceremony Summerslam weekend. Takeover:Tampa will essentially take place across NXT TV in upcoming weeks.
3. There are multiple factors, as said. It's also possible watching something that was previously only on PPV or the Network was a bigger draw.
4. There was at least one "social distancing" match on the indies where wrestlers bumped for moves taking place six feet away, which I got a kick out of. Basically wrestling companies are taking as many precautions as they can without stopping the actual wrestling itself.
5. That's all up to Teddy and his commitment to changing. I wouldn't assume we'll ever see him in a wrestling ring again, but I also wouldn't rule it out given how many people have been booked on shows when they clearly shouldn't have been.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 31, 2020
NJPW content, Interviews with Lita+Gail+Hemme/McIntyre/Edge/Rhea, Manic discusses Teddy arrest, assorted wrestling press, ROH showing last year's Supercard, another Where Are They Now, new AEW title coming, NJPW cancels tryouts, WWE trademarks, new WM36 match, and Questions on Mania in the afternoon, HoF+Takeover plans, social distancing, and Teddy Hart's future
Monday, March 30, 2020
WrestleMania run time, assorted Mania+wrestling press, Tiger King wrestling connection, WWE Network content, Interview with Ric Flair, and Questions on Bray not challenging Goldberg, Nancy Benoit in the HoF, WWE footage on Vice, why some prefer NXT, and Ronda returning
WrestleMania is scheduled to have one-hour Kickoff shows both nights. Each night's event is advertised as running for three hours.
The Rock was discussed on SportsCenter as Anthony Robles talked about making a film with him.
Stone Cold discussed WrestleMania matches with The Rock and more. That feud has really stood the test of time.
WrestleMania week will feature a slew of Instagram content.
NWA's Tim Storm discussed working with Netflix's Tiger King. I wouldn't be shocked at all to see a gimmick based on him. It's perfect for wrestling.
Brock Lesnar has a WWE Network match compilation hosted by Matt Camp.
Drew McIntyre's pre-WrestleMania workout was covered on BT Sport. That's pretty cool.
EVOLVE 125 was streamed for free.
Becky Lynch vs. Shayna Baszler is scheduled for the first night of WrestleMania.
Chris Jericho is looking to do weekly Saturday night segments on Instagram.
Bill Apter released a 2005 AJ Styles interview.
WWE Network is debuting a WWE 2K20 special simulating dream matches. That should be interesting.
"WWE Untold" with Shawn Michaels and Kurt Angle will air Friday. That could be really entertaining.
Drew McIntyre's "WWE Chronicle" will air after WrestleMania's first night.
Ric Flair spoke about his career, Charlotte, and more.
Triple H spoke about WWE running WrestleMania on ESPN.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. WrestleMania could be his only chance to face Cena and get revenge, or at least his best one. The man hasn't wrestled in more than 14 months. Bray hasn't had issues with Goldberg nearly to the level he has with Cena, and he doesn't have to worry about the Universal Championship leaving to film a movie!
2. NO. The last thing they want to do is associate themselves with that tragedy again.
3. I would think that as a documentary they would be allowed to use a few clips here and there for commentary purposes.
4. NXT is seen as more focused on the competition aspect of things. Rather than "sports entertainment," it's generally a straightforward show with matches and feuds built around wins, losses, and titles.
5. Unless it's WrestleMania 37 I don't expect it.
More wrestling tomorrow.
The Rock was discussed on SportsCenter as Anthony Robles talked about making a film with him.
Stone Cold discussed WrestleMania matches with The Rock and more. That feud has really stood the test of time.
WrestleMania week will feature a slew of Instagram content.
NWA's Tim Storm discussed working with Netflix's Tiger King. I wouldn't be shocked at all to see a gimmick based on him. It's perfect for wrestling.
Brock Lesnar has a WWE Network match compilation hosted by Matt Camp.
Drew McIntyre's pre-WrestleMania workout was covered on BT Sport. That's pretty cool.
EVOLVE 125 was streamed for free.
Becky Lynch vs. Shayna Baszler is scheduled for the first night of WrestleMania.
Chris Jericho is looking to do weekly Saturday night segments on Instagram.
Bill Apter released a 2005 AJ Styles interview.
WWE Network is debuting a WWE 2K20 special simulating dream matches. That should be interesting.
"WWE Untold" with Shawn Michaels and Kurt Angle will air Friday. That could be really entertaining.
Drew McIntyre's "WWE Chronicle" will air after WrestleMania's first night.
Ric Flair spoke about his career, Charlotte, and more.
Triple H spoke about WWE running WrestleMania on ESPN.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. WrestleMania could be his only chance to face Cena and get revenge, or at least his best one. The man hasn't wrestled in more than 14 months. Bray hasn't had issues with Goldberg nearly to the level he has with Cena, and he doesn't have to worry about the Universal Championship leaving to film a movie!
2. NO. The last thing they want to do is associate themselves with that tragedy again.
3. I would think that as a documentary they would be allowed to use a few clips here and there for commentary purposes.
4. NXT is seen as more focused on the competition aspect of things. Rather than "sports entertainment," it's generally a straightforward show with matches and feuds built around wins, losses, and titles.
5. Unless it's WrestleMania 37 I don't expect it.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Sunday, March 29, 2020
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, top names on Raw, Interviews with Becky/Kofi/Shayna, Rock talks Hogan match, free EVOLVE match, CHIKARA launches series, Smackdown audience, Edge on WWE 24, more on Teddy Hart, Network adds Flair collection, and Questions on WM on ESPN, Teddy's wrestling future, and wrestling shaking hands during a pandemic
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- Finland's SLAM! Wrestling has moved their May 16 event to October 10.
- Tokyo Joshi Pro canceled their March 28 show.
- NOAH's March 29 event had no fans in attendance.
- Wrestle-1's April 1 event will have no fans in attendance. This is the promotion's final show.
- Xavier Woods was on Twitch with a cosplayer making masks for medical professionals.
- Impact released a PSA. Weird to see Joey Ryan wearing a WWE shirt, and Kylie Rae involved.
- Dominik Dijakovic is selling signed pictures and video messages to support relief efforts.
Raw will feature Brock Lesnar, The Undertaker, and Edge.
Becky Lynch spoke to ESPN about WrestleMania's location.
The Rock discussed wrestling Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania X8. Great story. One of my all-time favorite matches.
EVOLVE has released Street Profits and Velveteen Dream vs. The Unwanted.
CHIKARA has launched a Saturday morning show on IWTV. Cool to see.
Smackdown drew 2.37 million viewers this week, likely taking a hit due to news coverage.
Edge is getting a "WWE 24" episode after the second night of WrestleMania, focusing on his in-ring return.
Kofi Kingston discussed "The Main Event" and WrestleMania.
Shayna Baszler promoted WrestleMania.
Teddy Hart's recent antics were detailed by an indie star he stayed with before his most recent arrest.
WWE Network has added a Ric Flair match collection hosted by The Bump's Matt Camp.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. It exposes the content to an audience who wouldn't otherwise see the shows. They really need to get outside their comfort zone of fans if they're going to grow the Network, and this helps with that.
2. Unless there's a warden or judge starting up a wrestling league, I think his career's at the very least on hold indefinitely.
3. Hahahaha. I would think with social distancing there aren't many wrestlers in one place to do handshakes in the first place. I would also think actually wrestling would be more of a risk than just shaking hands, so it's possible the practice is continuing.
4. This movie gets referenced in questions every so often, so it's clearly one that's stuck in people's minds with its unique premise.
Nothing to add to 5.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- Finland's SLAM! Wrestling has moved their May 16 event to October 10.
- Tokyo Joshi Pro canceled their March 28 show.
- NOAH's March 29 event had no fans in attendance.
- Wrestle-1's April 1 event will have no fans in attendance. This is the promotion's final show.
- Xavier Woods was on Twitch with a cosplayer making masks for medical professionals.
- Impact released a PSA. Weird to see Joey Ryan wearing a WWE shirt, and Kylie Rae involved.
- Dominik Dijakovic is selling signed pictures and video messages to support relief efforts.
Raw will feature Brock Lesnar, The Undertaker, and Edge.
Becky Lynch spoke to ESPN about WrestleMania's location.
The Rock discussed wrestling Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania X8. Great story. One of my all-time favorite matches.
EVOLVE has released Street Profits and Velveteen Dream vs. The Unwanted.
CHIKARA has launched a Saturday morning show on IWTV. Cool to see.
Smackdown drew 2.37 million viewers this week, likely taking a hit due to news coverage.
Edge is getting a "WWE 24" episode after the second night of WrestleMania, focusing on his in-ring return.
Kofi Kingston discussed "The Main Event" and WrestleMania.
Shayna Baszler promoted WrestleMania.
Teddy Hart's recent antics were detailed by an indie star he stayed with before his most recent arrest.
WWE Network has added a Ric Flair match collection hosted by The Bump's Matt Camp.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. It exposes the content to an audience who wouldn't otherwise see the shows. They really need to get outside their comfort zone of fans if they're going to grow the Network, and this helps with that.
2. Unless there's a warden or judge starting up a wrestling league, I think his career's at the very least on hold indefinitely.
3. Hahahaha. I would think with social distancing there aren't many wrestlers in one place to do handshakes in the first place. I would also think actually wrestling would be more of a risk than just shaking hands, so it's possible the practice is continuing.
4. This movie gets referenced in questions every so often, so it's clearly one that's stuck in people's minds with its unique premise.
Nothing to add to 5.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Saturday, March 28, 2020
Main Event and 205 Live Reax - 3/27/20
Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's Main Event and 205 Live.
Friday Night Smackdown Reax - 3/27/20
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Friday Night Smackdown.
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, assorted wrestling press, WM36 changes, WWE injury, more on Hart arrest, ROH wrestler signs deal, ROH TV update, announced WM36 matches, and Questions on WWEPC preparations, Vince at WM36, COVID-19 ending older stars' careers, ring carts, and WWE-Netflix
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- The Miz will not compete at WrestleMania.
- Murphy has not been cleared to return to the ring. He was scheduled to be in Seth Rollins' corner at WrestleMania.
- WWE's next TV taping is set for April 10 Smackdown. All April TV tapings are still scheduled for the WWE Performance Center.
- Cesaro and Xavier Woods appeared on a Twitch special to support coronavirus relief.
- Australian wrestling's fate due to the virus was covered.
Tommy Dreamer is hosting a virtual WrestleMania trivia party on April 4.
Brodie Lee is on Chris Jericho's latest podcast.
Goldberg's WrestleMania 36 opponent is Braun Strowman. That's pretty intriguing. I'm curious how that changes plans for using Goldberg going forward, since the expectation was he was going to lose the title to Roman.
Netflix's "The Main Event" got a trailer. Pretty cool.
Andrade suffered a rib injury recently. He will not compete at WrestleMania. That sucks, after he just returned from the Wellness suspension. Hopefully he's able to make headway when he returns.
- Austin Theory is replacing Andrade in the WrestleMania match. NICE. That's a huge opportunity for him.
Stephanie McMahon was promoted by Hulu.
Royal Rumble 2020 will air on FS1 on March 31 and FS2 on April 2. Cool to see ESPN and FOX promoting WrestleMania like that.
"Broken Skull Sessions" is getting uncensored versions on WWE Network. That's perfect for Austin.
Teddy Hart's arrest was on charges of strangulation resulting in bodily harm. The victim is current ROH star Maria Manic. A hearing is set for April 22. Absolutely shameful. This man needs to turn his life around fast, and it might take a jail sentence to do that.
- Ace Montana discussed the Teddy Hart confrontation at length.
ESPN's Ric Flair documentary is airing before WrestleMania 32 tomorrow. I like it.
Braun Strowman sang with Marty Ray Project.
ROH titleholder Rey Horus has signed a contract there. I hope he's able to build a U.S. career.
Chris Jericho spoke about Chris Benoit's "Dark Side of the Ring" episode.
ROH TV will feature compilation episodes focusing on specific wrestlers and teams due to missing tapings because of the coronavirus.
Thomas Santell's career was profiled.
WrestleMania 36 has announced:
- Sami Zayn vs. Daniel Bryan for the WWE Intercontinental Championship
- The Miz and John Morrison vs. The Usos vs. Big E and Kofi Kingston in a ladder match for the Smackdown Tag Team Championship
- Dolph Ziggler vs. Otis with Mandy Rose at ringside.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. WWE is on top of things as much as they can be, it sounds like.
2. He was running the show as much as he could with so much going on at once.
3. I wouldn't assume so, though certainly it's reasonable to think their careers might be on hold for now.
4. I suppose we could see them return at some point for a special occasion. Heck, they could look into it for a Saudi summer show.
5. Netflix might wait to see how those projects do before greenlighting more.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- The Miz will not compete at WrestleMania.
- Murphy has not been cleared to return to the ring. He was scheduled to be in Seth Rollins' corner at WrestleMania.
- WWE's next TV taping is set for April 10 Smackdown. All April TV tapings are still scheduled for the WWE Performance Center.
- Cesaro and Xavier Woods appeared on a Twitch special to support coronavirus relief.
- Australian wrestling's fate due to the virus was covered.
Tommy Dreamer is hosting a virtual WrestleMania trivia party on April 4.
Brodie Lee is on Chris Jericho's latest podcast.
Goldberg's WrestleMania 36 opponent is Braun Strowman. That's pretty intriguing. I'm curious how that changes plans for using Goldberg going forward, since the expectation was he was going to lose the title to Roman.
Netflix's "The Main Event" got a trailer. Pretty cool.
Andrade suffered a rib injury recently. He will not compete at WrestleMania. That sucks, after he just returned from the Wellness suspension. Hopefully he's able to make headway when he returns.
- Austin Theory is replacing Andrade in the WrestleMania match. NICE. That's a huge opportunity for him.
Stephanie McMahon was promoted by Hulu.
Royal Rumble 2020 will air on FS1 on March 31 and FS2 on April 2. Cool to see ESPN and FOX promoting WrestleMania like that.
"Broken Skull Sessions" is getting uncensored versions on WWE Network. That's perfect for Austin.
Teddy Hart's arrest was on charges of strangulation resulting in bodily harm. The victim is current ROH star Maria Manic. A hearing is set for April 22. Absolutely shameful. This man needs to turn his life around fast, and it might take a jail sentence to do that.
- Ace Montana discussed the Teddy Hart confrontation at length.
ESPN's Ric Flair documentary is airing before WrestleMania 32 tomorrow. I like it.
Braun Strowman sang with Marty Ray Project.
ROH titleholder Rey Horus has signed a contract there. I hope he's able to build a U.S. career.
Chris Jericho spoke about Chris Benoit's "Dark Side of the Ring" episode.
ROH TV will feature compilation episodes focusing on specific wrestlers and teams due to missing tapings because of the coronavirus.
Thomas Santell's career was profiled.
WrestleMania 36 has announced:
- Sami Zayn vs. Daniel Bryan for the WWE Intercontinental Championship
- The Miz and John Morrison vs. The Usos vs. Big E and Kofi Kingston in a ladder match for the Smackdown Tag Team Championship
- Dolph Ziggler vs. Otis with Mandy Rose at ringside.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. WWE is on top of things as much as they can be, it sounds like.
2. He was running the show as much as he could with so much going on at once.
3. I wouldn't assume so, though certainly it's reasonable to think their careers might be on hold for now.
4. I suppose we could see them return at some point for a special occasion. Heck, they could look into it for a Saudi summer show.
5. Netflix might wait to see how those projects do before greenlighting more.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Friday, March 27, 2020
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, WWE taping update, Mania changed extensively, AEW talents missing tapings, HoFer has serious cancer, assorted wrestling press, another Hart arrest, Dynamite+NXT audiences, AEW tryouts, wrestling return postponed, Punk-WWE update, Alberto-WWE note, and Questions on WWE making the Network free, ice cream bars, and AEW continuing to run live
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- Takeover: Dublin has been postponed to October 25.
- PROGRESS has opened a Twitch channel to support UK wrestlers.
- WWE has taped TV through April 6. Most of WrestleMania has been taped, though at least the Boneyard Match wasn't taped at the WWE Performance Center due to its stipulation.
- WrestleMania will not feature a number of competitors due to illness or high temperature. Others will miss the show due to looking to avoid the outbreak. Man that's a tough break.
-- Roman Reigns was the first name announced as voluntarily missing the show. Wowwwwwwww. That's major. That could really throw plans out the window.
- Jerry Lawler did not appear at WWE's empty venue tapings due to his age.
- WrestleMania will not feature any battle royal matches due to rules on how many people can appear in one place. Surreal times.
- Rey Mysterio was scheduled to team with Humberto Carrillo in Raw's tag team championship match. That would have been cool.
- NXT changed plans with Walter and the Grizzled Young Veterans due to travel restrictions for the UK.
- AEW will not feature The Death Triangle, Young Bucks, SCU, Bea Priestley, and Yuka Sukazaki during travel restrictions for California, the UK, and Japan.
- Korakuen Hall has banned spectators.
- Stardom's Cinderella tournament event mandated fans wear masks that were passed out before the show. Temperatures were taken and hand sanitizer was used.
- NJPW has canceled its April 11 event.
- AAA has canceled its April 25 TV taping.
- Game Changer Wrestling raised $12,000 with their events.
- Tijuana has shut down wrestling through April 20.
- ROH's TV show will not air in Quebec as the station that showed it has been shut down temporarily.
"Bullet" Bob Armstrong has serious bone cancer, but has chosen not to be treated. That's very sad to hear.
WWE Network has an editors' choice list. I like that.
The Young Bucks are on the latest AEW podcast.
Sammy Guevara and Darby Allin fought at 7-Eleven. I'm still waiting for someone to do a toilet paper on a pole match or something during the COVID-19 crisis.
Teddy Hart has been arrested following an altercation with indie wrestler Ace Montana. It's been a really bad stretch for Teddy.
Dynamite drew 819,000 viewers this week, declining from last week. It certainly looks like NXT got some of its regular viewers back from AEW with the more "normal" episode.
NXT drew 669,000 viewers this week, rebounding from the show with no fresh matches.
AEW Dark competitors from the double episode were being used in tryouts.
Stardom's Japanese TV show is moving from 12:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Missy Hyatt was going to work WrestleMania weekend as a surprise return on an indie event, but will now be unable to do so.
Jazzy Gabert was looking to create her own wrestling promotion in Europe, but that has been put on hold due to the pandemic.
C.M. Punk's agent tried to open discussions with WWE, but was shot down. WWE feels his Backstage appearances have devalued his potential wrestling return, given its small audience. WWE stipulated he can only appear on the show once a month. It's definitely been an underwhelming "return" for anyone expecting him to wrestle in WWE again.
WWE's German TV deal has been renewed. WrestleMania's Kickoff events will air live.
Kevin Dunn has gotten nearly 18,000 new shares of WWE stock.
WWE refuted Alberto Del Rio's reports of discussing a return with them. That did sound like a long shot.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. WWE Network was underperforming in subscriptions even if it wasn't for COVID-19, and I don't think that was going to change.
Nothing to add to 2 or 5.
3. As you might expect, there have been other things in the news cycle in this time, so that news has been relatively unnoticed.
4. They are pre-taping some content for Dynamite in case they're not able to be live. AEW wants to provide live content where possible, and are doing their best to keep that commitment.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- Takeover: Dublin has been postponed to October 25.
- PROGRESS has opened a Twitch channel to support UK wrestlers.
- WWE has taped TV through April 6. Most of WrestleMania has been taped, though at least the Boneyard Match wasn't taped at the WWE Performance Center due to its stipulation.
- WrestleMania will not feature a number of competitors due to illness or high temperature. Others will miss the show due to looking to avoid the outbreak. Man that's a tough break.
-- Roman Reigns was the first name announced as voluntarily missing the show. Wowwwwwwww. That's major. That could really throw plans out the window.
- Jerry Lawler did not appear at WWE's empty venue tapings due to his age.
- WrestleMania will not feature any battle royal matches due to rules on how many people can appear in one place. Surreal times.
- Rey Mysterio was scheduled to team with Humberto Carrillo in Raw's tag team championship match. That would have been cool.
- NXT changed plans with Walter and the Grizzled Young Veterans due to travel restrictions for the UK.
- AEW will not feature The Death Triangle, Young Bucks, SCU, Bea Priestley, and Yuka Sukazaki during travel restrictions for California, the UK, and Japan.
- Korakuen Hall has banned spectators.
- Stardom's Cinderella tournament event mandated fans wear masks that were passed out before the show. Temperatures were taken and hand sanitizer was used.
- NJPW has canceled its April 11 event.
- AAA has canceled its April 25 TV taping.
- Game Changer Wrestling raised $12,000 with their events.
- Tijuana has shut down wrestling through April 20.
- ROH's TV show will not air in Quebec as the station that showed it has been shut down temporarily.
"Bullet" Bob Armstrong has serious bone cancer, but has chosen not to be treated. That's very sad to hear.
WWE Network has an editors' choice list. I like that.
The Young Bucks are on the latest AEW podcast.
Sammy Guevara and Darby Allin fought at 7-Eleven. I'm still waiting for someone to do a toilet paper on a pole match or something during the COVID-19 crisis.
Teddy Hart has been arrested following an altercation with indie wrestler Ace Montana. It's been a really bad stretch for Teddy.
Dynamite drew 819,000 viewers this week, declining from last week. It certainly looks like NXT got some of its regular viewers back from AEW with the more "normal" episode.
NXT drew 669,000 viewers this week, rebounding from the show with no fresh matches.
AEW Dark competitors from the double episode were being used in tryouts.
Stardom's Japanese TV show is moving from 12:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Missy Hyatt was going to work WrestleMania weekend as a surprise return on an indie event, but will now be unable to do so.
Jazzy Gabert was looking to create her own wrestling promotion in Europe, but that has been put on hold due to the pandemic.
C.M. Punk's agent tried to open discussions with WWE, but was shot down. WWE feels his Backstage appearances have devalued his potential wrestling return, given its small audience. WWE stipulated he can only appear on the show once a month. It's definitely been an underwhelming "return" for anyone expecting him to wrestle in WWE again.
WWE's German TV deal has been renewed. WrestleMania's Kickoff events will air live.
Kevin Dunn has gotten nearly 18,000 new shares of WWE stock.
WWE refuted Alberto Del Rio's reports of discussing a return with them. That did sound like a long shot.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. WWE Network was underperforming in subscriptions even if it wasn't for COVID-19, and I don't think that was going to change.
Nothing to add to 2 or 5.
3. As you might expect, there have been other things in the news cycle in this time, so that news has been relatively unnoticed.
4. They are pre-taping some content for Dynamite in case they're not able to be live. AEW wants to provide live content where possible, and are doing their best to keep that commitment.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Thursday, March 26, 2020
Impact name done, assorted wrestling press, more free matches, AXS TNA special lineup, Joe update, WM36 trademarks, NXT matches set, and Questions on WWE coronavirus preparations and Ric Flair returning ot NWA
James Mitchell has been written out of Impact storylines.
Greg "The Hammer" Valentine appeared on Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins' action figure podcast.
WWE Backstage did another "Watch With" episode featuring Booker T. vs. Rey Mysterio from Great American Bash 2006 and Mark Henry vs. Kurt Angle from Royal Rumble 2006.
WWF Wrestlefest's history was covered.
Impact's AXS "TNA" special on March 31 will feature:
- Rhino vs. Madman Fulton
- Scott Steiner on the microphone
- Hernandez vs. Chase Stevens
- Kid Kash and Johnny Swinger vs. Suicide and Manik, teaming for the first time ever (I was under the impression they were the same character just renamed, but whatever).
- Scott D'Amore and David Penzer will be on commentary.
NJPW has released a handful of matches from their recent U.S. tour on YouTube.
Bloomberg speculated whether Vince McMahon is looking to sell WWE. He's willing to listen if someone makes the right offer (that lets him retain control of how things are run).
VICE has uploaded the Chris Benoit episode of "Dark Side of the Ring" to YouTube.
Samoa Joe's Wellness policy suspension has ended.
Mandy Rose is on "After The Bell" this week.
Becky Lynch is working with Special Olympics to create at-home workouts.
EVOLVE has released:
- Velveteen Dream vs. Orange Cassidy
- Walter vs. Adam Cole
- Austin Theory vs. Darby Allin vs. Joey Janela vs. AR Fox
- Street Profits vs. Chris Dickinson and Jaka
- Johnny Gargano vs. Austin Theory
"Dark Side of the Ring" drew 320,000 viewers, the biggest audience in the show's history. That's very impressive; obviously that subject has had a lot of interest.
Drew McIntyre promoted WrestleMania with The Wrap.
The Bella Twins and Gordon Ramsay did a video together.
ROH has launched "HonorPost," which will feature regular contributions from ROH talent. It's lean times for the wrestling business right now, but at least they're getting some content out.
WWE has trademarked "Too Big For One Night" and "I wasn't there" for WrestleMania 36.
Davey Boy Smith, Jr. is out of All Japan Pro Wrestling's Champion Carnival tournament due to travel restrictions.
- AJPW's Saturday show has been canceled due to the pandemic.
Jeff Marek discussed VICE's Chris Benoit episode.
MLW has signed a Poland TV deal for Fusion. Cool to see them continue to grow.
NXT's April 1 episode has announced:
- Keith Lee vs. Dominik Dijakovic vs. Damian Priest for the North American Championship
- A second chance gauntlet match to qualify for the women's ladder match.
- Velveteen Dream vs. Bobby Fish
NXT's April 8 episode has announced:
- Johnny Gargano vs. Tommaso Ciampa in a final match
- A ladder match for the NXT Women's Championship number one contendership
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. WWE is wisely taping the event before it airs.
2. It will depend on what other offers they get, but I expect Tampa will again be in the running in upcoming years.
3. It could definitely be big, though he could overshadow other stars there. I don't know if he'd want to risk his WWE connection.
Nothing to add to 4.
5. WWE is doing their best to keep as few people present on one "set" at a time.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Greg "The Hammer" Valentine appeared on Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins' action figure podcast.
WWE Backstage did another "Watch With" episode featuring Booker T. vs. Rey Mysterio from Great American Bash 2006 and Mark Henry vs. Kurt Angle from Royal Rumble 2006.
WWF Wrestlefest's history was covered.
Impact's AXS "TNA" special on March 31 will feature:
- Rhino vs. Madman Fulton
- Scott Steiner on the microphone
- Hernandez vs. Chase Stevens
- Kid Kash and Johnny Swinger vs. Suicide and Manik, teaming for the first time ever (I was under the impression they were the same character just renamed, but whatever).
- Scott D'Amore and David Penzer will be on commentary.
NJPW has released a handful of matches from their recent U.S. tour on YouTube.
Bloomberg speculated whether Vince McMahon is looking to sell WWE. He's willing to listen if someone makes the right offer (that lets him retain control of how things are run).
VICE has uploaded the Chris Benoit episode of "Dark Side of the Ring" to YouTube.
Samoa Joe's Wellness policy suspension has ended.
Mandy Rose is on "After The Bell" this week.
Becky Lynch is working with Special Olympics to create at-home workouts.
EVOLVE has released:
- Velveteen Dream vs. Orange Cassidy
- Walter vs. Adam Cole
- Austin Theory vs. Darby Allin vs. Joey Janela vs. AR Fox
- Street Profits vs. Chris Dickinson and Jaka
- Johnny Gargano vs. Austin Theory
"Dark Side of the Ring" drew 320,000 viewers, the biggest audience in the show's history. That's very impressive; obviously that subject has had a lot of interest.
Drew McIntyre promoted WrestleMania with The Wrap.
The Bella Twins and Gordon Ramsay did a video together.
ROH has launched "HonorPost," which will feature regular contributions from ROH talent. It's lean times for the wrestling business right now, but at least they're getting some content out.
WWE has trademarked "Too Big For One Night" and "I wasn't there" for WrestleMania 36.
Davey Boy Smith, Jr. is out of All Japan Pro Wrestling's Champion Carnival tournament due to travel restrictions.
- AJPW's Saturday show has been canceled due to the pandemic.
Jeff Marek discussed VICE's Chris Benoit episode.
MLW has signed a Poland TV deal for Fusion. Cool to see them continue to grow.
NXT's April 1 episode has announced:
- Keith Lee vs. Dominik Dijakovic vs. Damian Priest for the North American Championship
- A second chance gauntlet match to qualify for the women's ladder match.
- Velveteen Dream vs. Bobby Fish
NXT's April 8 episode has announced:
- Johnny Gargano vs. Tommaso Ciampa in a final match
- A ladder match for the NXT Women's Championship number one contendership
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. WWE is wisely taping the event before it airs.
2. It will depend on what other offers they get, but I expect Tampa will again be in the running in upcoming years.
3. It could definitely be big, though he could overshadow other stars there. I don't know if he'd want to risk his WWE connection.
Nothing to add to 4.
5. WWE is doing their best to keep as few people present on one "set" at a time.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, WM30 showing audience, Impact parent company exec change, assorted wrestling press, WWE Network out of key country, Big Show trailer, Raw audience, Vince sells a lot of stock, NXT lineup, XFL player to NFL, and Questions on WM36
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- Takeover:Tampa Bay matches will take place on NXT TV beginning April 1. That's a good move.
- Rey Mysterio and Dana Brooke have been pulled from WrestleMania due to being in quarantine. While Rey Mysterio was not announced for a match, Dana Brooke is no longer part of the Smackdown Women's Championship match.
- Dustin Rhodes has an exclusive shirt to benefit a local food bank.
- Rusev is giving $20,000 to WWE staff who aren't getting paid. That's very generous.
- Impact has canceled their April 17 Impact Plus event, as well as their April 24 and April 25 TV tapings. They also confirmed Rebellion is canceled. I'm very curious what they're going to do for content in a few weeks.
- Fozzy has postponed their April and May dates. Their tour will now go from July through September. No Wednesday dates are scheduled, so Chris Jericho has again arranged not to miss Dynamite.
ESPN's WrestleMania 30 airing drew 839,000 viewers.
Fight Network has named a new general manager. Ariel Shnerer had previously held a number of other roles there, including helping Impact Plus launch.
Charly Caruso teased competing at WrestleMania. Honestly I think she'd be able to have a passable match.
Drew McIntyre promoted WrestleMania in interviews with TalkSport (Part 1 Part 2), Sports Illustrated, and Metro.
Pro Wrestling Tees is auctioning signed action figures to recoup losses from WrestleCon.
WWE Network is no longer available in Saudi Arabia. I'm curious what's going on on that front.
"The Big Show Show" trailer released. I'll mark out if he turns heel and face multiple times during the season.
Raw drew 2.01 million viewers this week. I think this has to be considered a special circumstance like a holiday show. That said, overall the show's audience has really declined from years back with no signs of that turning around.
Nick Aldis did a fan Q&A.
NWA has uploaded their 2019 "pop-up" event.
Vince McMahon has sold approximately 3.5 million shares of WWE stock, effective March 2024, in a move to raise $80 million for the company. That's around 15% of what he owns, and shows a major dedication to the crisis.
Chris Jericho promoted "Dark Side of the Ring" with UpRoxx and Newsweek.
Chavo Guerrero and Tommy Dreamer appeared on the "Dark Side of the Ring" post-show.
NXT has added:
- Candice LeRae vs. Kayden Carter in a qualifying match for the NXT Women's Championship contendership ladder match
- Xia Li vs. Aliyah in a qualifying match for the NXT Women's Championship contendership ladder match
- Matt Riddle vs. Roderick Strong
- Austin Theory vs. Tyler Breeze
XFL's P.J. Walker has been signed in the NFL, making him the first XFL player to get an NFL contract. We'll see who is and isn't able to return for a second season.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. If that was a reason, it wasn't the main one.
2. I have a feeling we're going to see something like that with The Undertaker and/or The Fiend at that event.
3. It's possible. Some of that will depend on what else is set up for after WrestleMania before the event airs.
4. It will be seen as an anomaly, a bit like WrestleMania 2. I don't expect it to be considered an all-time great show given the circumstances, but it will be memorable for other reasons.
5. They could do that if they wanted to. I hope they take advantage of the opportunity to do something special for the show.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- Takeover:Tampa Bay matches will take place on NXT TV beginning April 1. That's a good move.
- Rey Mysterio and Dana Brooke have been pulled from WrestleMania due to being in quarantine. While Rey Mysterio was not announced for a match, Dana Brooke is no longer part of the Smackdown Women's Championship match.
- Dustin Rhodes has an exclusive shirt to benefit a local food bank.
- Rusev is giving $20,000 to WWE staff who aren't getting paid. That's very generous.
- Impact has canceled their April 17 Impact Plus event, as well as their April 24 and April 25 TV tapings. They also confirmed Rebellion is canceled. I'm very curious what they're going to do for content in a few weeks.
- Fozzy has postponed their April and May dates. Their tour will now go from July through September. No Wednesday dates are scheduled, so Chris Jericho has again arranged not to miss Dynamite.
ESPN's WrestleMania 30 airing drew 839,000 viewers.
Fight Network has named a new general manager. Ariel Shnerer had previously held a number of other roles there, including helping Impact Plus launch.
Charly Caruso teased competing at WrestleMania. Honestly I think she'd be able to have a passable match.
Drew McIntyre promoted WrestleMania in interviews with TalkSport (Part 1 Part 2), Sports Illustrated, and Metro.
Pro Wrestling Tees is auctioning signed action figures to recoup losses from WrestleCon.
WWE Network is no longer available in Saudi Arabia. I'm curious what's going on on that front.
"The Big Show Show" trailer released. I'll mark out if he turns heel and face multiple times during the season.
Raw drew 2.01 million viewers this week. I think this has to be considered a special circumstance like a holiday show. That said, overall the show's audience has really declined from years back with no signs of that turning around.
Nick Aldis did a fan Q&A.
NWA has uploaded their 2019 "pop-up" event.
Vince McMahon has sold approximately 3.5 million shares of WWE stock, effective March 2024, in a move to raise $80 million for the company. That's around 15% of what he owns, and shows a major dedication to the crisis.
Chris Jericho promoted "Dark Side of the Ring" with UpRoxx and Newsweek.
Chavo Guerrero and Tommy Dreamer appeared on the "Dark Side of the Ring" post-show.
NXT has added:
- Candice LeRae vs. Kayden Carter in a qualifying match for the NXT Women's Championship contendership ladder match
- Xia Li vs. Aliyah in a qualifying match for the NXT Women's Championship contendership ladder match
- Matt Riddle vs. Roderick Strong
- Austin Theory vs. Tyler Breeze
XFL's P.J. Walker has been signed in the NFL, making him the first XFL player to get an NFL contract. We'll see who is and isn't able to return for a second season.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. If that was a reason, it wasn't the main one.
2. I have a feeling we're going to see something like that with The Undertaker and/or The Fiend at that event.
3. It's possible. Some of that will depend on what else is set up for after WrestleMania before the event airs.
4. It will be seen as an anomaly, a bit like WrestleMania 2. I don't expect it to be considered an all-time great show given the circumstances, but it will be memorable for other reasons.
5. They could do that if they wanted to. I hope they take advantage of the opportunity to do something special for the show.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 24, 2020
Cornavirus-related wrestling updates, new WWE book, assorted wrestling press, Dynamite to have title match, WWE roster change, HoFer needs knee surgery, indie names working Dark, Network library free, new WM36 matches, legend has health issue, Dynamite guest commentator, and Questions on Bret on Austin's podcast, Minnesota Mania, AEW being affected by COVID-19, Impact showing WWE footage, and if Mania was postponed
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- NJPW has canceled its March 31 and April 11 events.
- AEW has rescheduled the following Dynamites:
-- The April 22 Pennsylvania episode will now be on July 29.
-- The April 29 Texas episode will now be on November 4.
-- The May 6 Louisiana episode will now be on December 2.
-- The May 13 New Mexico episode will now be on December 30.
- WWE taped footage at Full Sail University for future episodes of NXT.
"WWE Beyond Extreme," a book featuring covering gimmick matches and stunts, has been released.
ROH's Ian Riccaboni has launched a toy podcast.
Dynamite this week will feature Kenny Omega vs. Sammy Guevara for the AAA Mega Championship. The previously announced lumberjack match and parking lot brawl have been shelved.
"The Bump" hosts will be doing content on Instagram Live this week.
Kayla Braxton is on Isaiah Scott's latest podcast.
Mojo Rawley has been moved to Smackdown on an official basis. That's not a surprise.
WWE is only using producers from Florida at this week's tapings since they're using the Performance Center. Shawn Michaels is assisting Road Dogg, Adam Pearce, and Jamie Noble in those duties.
Koko B. Ware has a GoFundMe for knee replacement surgery. That's rough.
AEW Dark is a double episode this week and will feature a number of independent wrestlers who are otherwise not working. Joe Alonzo, Jon Cruz, Matt Sells, Suge D (Sugar Dunkerton), Corey Hollis, Mike Reed, and Robert Anthony will all be in action.
WWE Network is putting up a lot of free content for a limited time to promote WrestleMania. I don't expect the Network to continue in its current form for much longer. They might as well prepare to make the whole thing permanently free at this rate.
WrestleMania 36 has added:
- Street Profits vs. Andrade and Angel Garza for the Raw Tag Team Championship
- Aleister Black vs. Bobby Lashley
- The Undertaker vs. AJ Styles in a Boneyard match
Ricky Morton recently had a bout of Bell's Palsy.
Cody will do commentary on Dynamite this week. I'm curious what that means for the normal broadcast team.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. Honestly? That's just Bret. While the other guests have continued to have careers and maintain relevancy, Bret doesn't really have anything to discuss from the past 15+ years. He's largely been defined as the Montreal Screwjob guy who took the business too seriously and who stopped mattering once WCW closed down, if not before, and I think his attitude reflects that he and his contributions have really been passed by.
2. They've been in the running, but ultimately other host cities have made WWE better offers. Honestly it could also be a weather thing, as well. WWE doesn't want WrestleMania to be in too cold of a place.
3. I expect them to be fine. TNT understands the situation and isn't going to cancel them so soon after renewal. Tony Khan's dedicated to supporting the company long-term, too.
4. WWE and Impact are on professional terms in the sense that both sides are open to licensing footage to the other for the right price. At this point WWE doesn't even really consider them competition at the level of AEW or NJPW.
5. I don't dislike the idea of the June Madison Square Garden show "replacing" WrestleMania and just resuming the build when they're able to. Vince McMahon has his reasons for wanting the show in April, though. Vince beat God in 2006, and he's determined to beat the coronavirus now.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- NJPW has canceled its March 31 and April 11 events.
- AEW has rescheduled the following Dynamites:
-- The April 22 Pennsylvania episode will now be on July 29.
-- The April 29 Texas episode will now be on November 4.
-- The May 6 Louisiana episode will now be on December 2.
-- The May 13 New Mexico episode will now be on December 30.
- WWE taped footage at Full Sail University for future episodes of NXT.
"WWE Beyond Extreme," a book featuring covering gimmick matches and stunts, has been released.
ROH's Ian Riccaboni has launched a toy podcast.
Dynamite this week will feature Kenny Omega vs. Sammy Guevara for the AAA Mega Championship. The previously announced lumberjack match and parking lot brawl have been shelved.
"The Bump" hosts will be doing content on Instagram Live this week.
Kayla Braxton is on Isaiah Scott's latest podcast.
Mojo Rawley has been moved to Smackdown on an official basis. That's not a surprise.
WWE is only using producers from Florida at this week's tapings since they're using the Performance Center. Shawn Michaels is assisting Road Dogg, Adam Pearce, and Jamie Noble in those duties.
Koko B. Ware has a GoFundMe for knee replacement surgery. That's rough.
AEW Dark is a double episode this week and will feature a number of independent wrestlers who are otherwise not working. Joe Alonzo, Jon Cruz, Matt Sells, Suge D (Sugar Dunkerton), Corey Hollis, Mike Reed, and Robert Anthony will all be in action.
WWE Network is putting up a lot of free content for a limited time to promote WrestleMania. I don't expect the Network to continue in its current form for much longer. They might as well prepare to make the whole thing permanently free at this rate.
WrestleMania 36 has added:
- Street Profits vs. Andrade and Angel Garza for the Raw Tag Team Championship
- Aleister Black vs. Bobby Lashley
- The Undertaker vs. AJ Styles in a Boneyard match
Ricky Morton recently had a bout of Bell's Palsy.
Cody will do commentary on Dynamite this week. I'm curious what that means for the normal broadcast team.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. Honestly? That's just Bret. While the other guests have continued to have careers and maintain relevancy, Bret doesn't really have anything to discuss from the past 15+ years. He's largely been defined as the Montreal Screwjob guy who took the business too seriously and who stopped mattering once WCW closed down, if not before, and I think his attitude reflects that he and his contributions have really been passed by.
2. They've been in the running, but ultimately other host cities have made WWE better offers. Honestly it could also be a weather thing, as well. WWE doesn't want WrestleMania to be in too cold of a place.
3. I expect them to be fine. TNT understands the situation and isn't going to cancel them so soon after renewal. Tony Khan's dedicated to supporting the company long-term, too.
4. WWE and Impact are on professional terms in the sense that both sides are open to licensing footage to the other for the right price. At this point WWE doesn't even really consider them competition at the level of AEW or NJPW.
5. I don't dislike the idea of the June Madison Square Garden show "replacing" WrestleMania and just resuming the build when they're able to. Vince McMahon has his reasons for wanting the show in April, though. Vince beat God in 2006, and he's determined to beat the coronavirus now.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Monday, March 23, 2020
Impact PPV likely canceled, podcast guest, free EVOLVE match, WWE Netflix movie update, new Dynamite match, 24/7 title switch, interesting wrestling venue, and Questions on COVID-19 precautions, WWE filming, and who should and shouldn't be in MITB
Impact Rebellion is listed as canceled due to the coronavirus. Maybe they'll move the advertised matches from Lockdown, WrestleCon, and Rebellion to TV tapings on the road to Slammiversary.
Sean Waltman is on Booker T.'s latest podcast.
EVOLVE has uploaded Austin Theory vs. Darby Allin from EVOLVE 121.
Netflix's "The Main Event" does not have John Cena or Bray Wyatt, though earlier drafts included them in the script.
Dynamite has added Cody vs. Jimmy Havoc.
R-Truth won the 24/7 Championship from Riddick Moss. Pretty fun.
A UK promotion ran a show inside a cave. I guess that's one way to stay quarantined.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. Wrestling is kind of flying under the radar, as it usually does, since it's often not treated as a sport.
2. Dedication to their job is about all I can say. They're all checked out by doctors upon arrival, thankfully.
3. I would like to see a few people involved if possible, though I can see why WWE is playing it safe.
4. WWE does generally have a lot of filming going on for various projects. And, yes, this could make for an interesting documentary down the line.
5. I like each brand having three or four top contenders in the match instead of bloating it by including people who have no chance of winning.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Sean Waltman is on Booker T.'s latest podcast.
EVOLVE has uploaded Austin Theory vs. Darby Allin from EVOLVE 121.
Netflix's "The Main Event" does not have John Cena or Bray Wyatt, though earlier drafts included them in the script.
Dynamite has added Cody vs. Jimmy Havoc.
R-Truth won the 24/7 Championship from Riddick Moss. Pretty fun.
A UK promotion ran a show inside a cave. I guess that's one way to stay quarantined.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. Wrestling is kind of flying under the radar, as it usually does, since it's often not treated as a sport.
2. Dedication to their job is about all I can say. They're all checked out by doctors upon arrival, thankfully.
3. I would like to see a few people involved if possible, though I can see why WWE is playing it safe.
4. WWE does generally have a lot of filming going on for various projects. And, yes, this could make for an interesting documentary down the line.
5. I like each brand having three or four top contenders in the match instead of bloating it by including people who have no chance of winning.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Sunday, March 22, 2020
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, more free wrestling shows, Interviews with Mike Rome/Scurll, Hogan settles lawsuit, Smackdown audience, NXT signee discusses move to U.S., WWE name who wasn't at Smackdown, and Questions on wrestling reality shows, David Starr, Punk at Mania, and Jinder as champ
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- Braun Strowman buried wrestlers asking for financial assistance. I can see there being repercussions for that viewpoint if he's ever in a position to be working with names affected by this unexpected work stoppage.
- WWE's current taping plans:
-- March 21: Smackdown and 205 Live for March 27 and April 3
-- March 22: NXT content
-- March 23 and March 24: Raw for March 23 and March 30
-- March 25 and March 26: WrestleMania 36
- Hulk Hogan's WrestleMania week signing has been canceled.
NJPW has released Wrestle Kingdom night one for free on NJPW World. A lot of companies are wisely giving people things to watch during the pandemic.
WWE has released "I Wasn't There" T-shirts for WrestleMania 36. Hilarious, but I know some people who had tickets are going to see it as adding insult to injury.
Mike Rome spoke to Chris Van Vliet. Glad to see WWE let him do that.
Hulk Hogan has reached a settlement with Cox Radio, whose employees were part of Hogan's sex tape leaking. Hopefully that's the last I have to write about that tawdry story.
Smackdown drew 2.56 million viewers this week, very close to last week's number.
NXT signee Sareee has started a video series on her U.S. journey. She's still in Japan due to the current pandemic.
Impact has released Lockdown 2005 online for free.
Paige was not at Smackdown. Her segments were shot in California and edited into the show. WWE's really having to change things around these days.
Marty Scurll discussed turning down AEW and more:
- Frankly ROH had the tools to be something like AEW if the right people were behind-the-scenes and signing the checks. As mentioned, they've attracted a lot of great talent over the years and notable working agreements.
- ROH can still be a place for talents to show what they can do. It sucks the momentum they were building was cut down by the pandemic.
- ROH finally woke up and realized they'd have to make some real moves to remain relevant in a post-AEW world.
- Marty really seems like he has a gameplan for ROH.
Joey Janela and Jimmy Lloyd had a "social distancing" match for GCW. Clever!
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. There are storylines they consciously develop, yes.
2. I'm only somewhat familiar with his work as a wrestler. He's definitely putting forth some issues that could use some discussion in the business, sometimes at the expense of his own working opportunities. I've got to applaud him for that.
3. He might not have been at the event itself, but I imagine he would have been part of FS1's coverage of it. Even if he was at the show, it would have been as a broadcaster and I doubt he would have spoken to WWE Management.
4. That's funny!
5. Frankly until he's cleared to return it's too early to know what his capabilities are. I'd like to think he's young enough to have another main event run, though.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- Braun Strowman buried wrestlers asking for financial assistance. I can see there being repercussions for that viewpoint if he's ever in a position to be working with names affected by this unexpected work stoppage.
- WWE's current taping plans:
-- March 21: Smackdown and 205 Live for March 27 and April 3
-- March 22: NXT content
-- March 23 and March 24: Raw for March 23 and March 30
-- March 25 and March 26: WrestleMania 36
- Hulk Hogan's WrestleMania week signing has been canceled.
NJPW has released Wrestle Kingdom night one for free on NJPW World. A lot of companies are wisely giving people things to watch during the pandemic.
WWE has released "I Wasn't There" T-shirts for WrestleMania 36. Hilarious, but I know some people who had tickets are going to see it as adding insult to injury.
Mike Rome spoke to Chris Van Vliet. Glad to see WWE let him do that.
Hulk Hogan has reached a settlement with Cox Radio, whose employees were part of Hogan's sex tape leaking. Hopefully that's the last I have to write about that tawdry story.
Smackdown drew 2.56 million viewers this week, very close to last week's number.
NXT signee Sareee has started a video series on her U.S. journey. She's still in Japan due to the current pandemic.
Impact has released Lockdown 2005 online for free.
Paige was not at Smackdown. Her segments were shot in California and edited into the show. WWE's really having to change things around these days.
Marty Scurll discussed turning down AEW and more:
- Frankly ROH had the tools to be something like AEW if the right people were behind-the-scenes and signing the checks. As mentioned, they've attracted a lot of great talent over the years and notable working agreements.
- ROH can still be a place for talents to show what they can do. It sucks the momentum they were building was cut down by the pandemic.
- ROH finally woke up and realized they'd have to make some real moves to remain relevant in a post-AEW world.
- Marty really seems like he has a gameplan for ROH.
Joey Janela and Jimmy Lloyd had a "social distancing" match for GCW. Clever!
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. There are storylines they consciously develop, yes.
2. I'm only somewhat familiar with his work as a wrestler. He's definitely putting forth some issues that could use some discussion in the business, sometimes at the expense of his own working opportunities. I've got to applaud him for that.
3. He might not have been at the event itself, but I imagine he would have been part of FS1's coverage of it. Even if he was at the show, it would have been as a broadcaster and I doubt he would have spoken to WWE Management.
4. That's funny!
5. Frankly until he's cleared to return it's too early to know what his capabilities are. I'd like to think he's young enough to have another main event run, though.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Saturday, March 21, 2020
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, free wrestling content, Interviews with McIntyre/Matt Hardy/Meltzer/Sonya/Doug Williams, assorted wrestling press, WrestleManias on ESPN, new WM36 matches, and new TV matches/segments
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- Stardom, Dragon Gate, and DDT will be resuming running live events shortly, as the virus' spread has slowed in Japan.
- XFL has officially canceled the remainder of its season.
- Mexico has suspended events through April 20.
- Scott Steiner's March 22 indie date has been canceled.
- The virus' effects on WrestleMania weekend were covered.
- WWE and AEW TV still running was covered.
- AEW's Blood & Guts match has been indefinitely postponed.
Stardom's Cinderella Tournament will air its first round on YouTube live for free. Cool idea to give fans a sample of the product, although of course the time zone difference will play a big role there.
EVOLVE has released Johnny Gargano vs. Austin Theory from EVOLVE 120 on YouTube.
The Wrestling Revolution Project will be released for free soon. Currently the raw footage is being released by its creator as a make-good during the pandemic.
Drew McIntyre spoke to Men's Health about his chest workout.
Jungle Boy climbed a power tower. That's genuinely scary.
Matt Hardy is on the latest Talk is Jericho.
Rob Gronkowski has plenty of WWE merchandise available already, as expected.
WWE's latest action figure showdown is Kurt Angle vs. Matt Hardy.
ESPN will air recent WrestleManias over the next few weekends to promote WrestleMania 36. That's a great move!
"Total Bellas" return has been moved up a week to April 2.
The Chris Benoit episode of "Dark Side of the Ring" had its first half released online this week. That's bold!
Dave Meltzer spoke on Against The Mat.
Sonya Deville was profiled.
Nick Jackson's wife gave birth.
Championship Wrestling from Hollywood's commitment to kayfabe was profiled.
Doug Williams spoke on the Because WCW podcast.
WrestleMania 36 has added:
- King Corbin vs. Elias
- Bayley vs. Sasha Banks vs. Naomi vs. Lacey Evans vs. Dana Brooke vs. Tamina for the Smackdown Women's Championship
Dynamite has announced Chris Jericho going face-to-face with Matt Hardy.
Smackdown has announced:
- New Day vs. The Usos to determine who faces The Miz and John Morrison at WrestleMania
- Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Drew Gulak. If Gulak wins, Daniel Bryan faces Sami Zayn for the Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania
- Asuka vs. Alexa Bliss
- Firefly Fun House
More wrestling coming up.
- Stardom, Dragon Gate, and DDT will be resuming running live events shortly, as the virus' spread has slowed in Japan.
- XFL has officially canceled the remainder of its season.
- Mexico has suspended events through April 20.
- Scott Steiner's March 22 indie date has been canceled.
- The virus' effects on WrestleMania weekend were covered.
- WWE and AEW TV still running was covered.
- AEW's Blood & Guts match has been indefinitely postponed.
Stardom's Cinderella Tournament will air its first round on YouTube live for free. Cool idea to give fans a sample of the product, although of course the time zone difference will play a big role there.
EVOLVE has released Johnny Gargano vs. Austin Theory from EVOLVE 120 on YouTube.
The Wrestling Revolution Project will be released for free soon. Currently the raw footage is being released by its creator as a make-good during the pandemic.
Drew McIntyre spoke to Men's Health about his chest workout.
Jungle Boy climbed a power tower. That's genuinely scary.
Matt Hardy is on the latest Talk is Jericho.
Rob Gronkowski has plenty of WWE merchandise available already, as expected.
WWE's latest action figure showdown is Kurt Angle vs. Matt Hardy.
ESPN will air recent WrestleManias over the next few weekends to promote WrestleMania 36. That's a great move!
"Total Bellas" return has been moved up a week to April 2.
The Chris Benoit episode of "Dark Side of the Ring" had its first half released online this week. That's bold!
Dave Meltzer spoke on Against The Mat.
Sonya Deville was profiled.
Nick Jackson's wife gave birth.
Championship Wrestling from Hollywood's commitment to kayfabe was profiled.
Doug Williams spoke on the Because WCW podcast.
WrestleMania 36 has added:
- King Corbin vs. Elias
- Bayley vs. Sasha Banks vs. Naomi vs. Lacey Evans vs. Dana Brooke vs. Tamina for the Smackdown Women's Championship
Dynamite has announced Chris Jericho going face-to-face with Matt Hardy.
Smackdown has announced:
- New Day vs. The Usos to determine who faces The Miz and John Morrison at WrestleMania
- Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Drew Gulak. If Gulak wins, Daniel Bryan faces Sami Zayn for the Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania
- Asuka vs. Alexa Bliss
- Firefly Fun House
More wrestling coming up.
Main Event and 205 Live Reax - 3/20/20
Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's Main Event and 205 Live.
Friday Night Smackdown Reax - 3/20/20
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Friday Night Smackdown.
Friday, March 20, 2020
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, AEW injury note, Exalted One plans, Interviews with Corbin/Billy Gunn/Meij/Eddie Kingston/Sonya, assorted wrestling notes, former WWE champion doesn't expect to re-sign, AEW EVPs seek feedback, Dynamite+NXT audiences, new Rebellion match, Stardom lawsuit, former WWE Champion teases return, more WWE lawsuits, Revival update, WWE goes after indie company, and Questions on empty arena matches, Ribera's Steakhouse, Amazing Red in WWE, and Impact pushing Kazarian
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- WWE has postponed their South African tour to September 10 through September 12.
- Rob Schamberger is launching a virtual convention. That's clever!
- Game Changer Wrestling is running an Acid Cup to get its performers work.
- Smackdown's March 27 episode will be taped tomorrow at the WWE Performance Center.
- WWE will pre-tape content in the days ahead for Raw and Smackdown to lead up to WrestleMania. It's possible that event itself will be pre-taped, as amazing as that sounds.
- Brock Lesnar may or may not be able to appear, since he lives in Saskatchewan. That would obviously greatly change plans.
- The WWE Performance Center has suspended training and working activities during the outbreak.
- WWE talent and staff are being told they don't have to attend shows if they aren't comfortable doing so. That should show just how grave things are.
- NJPW has canceled its April 2 Florida show.
- OVW has canceled TV tapings until April 7. It has also suspended training.
- WWE canceled a major tryout's in-ring aspect. Talents instead just cut promos. I hope they're able to return.
Nick Jackson's injury angle is for family leave, as his wife is expecting to deliver soon.
Brodie Lee was always planned as the Exalted One. AEW teased other directions as red herrings. They did a good job of keeping fans guessing.
King Corbin is on the latest "After The Bell"
Matt Hardy's Dynamite music was performed by Reby.
Billy Gunn is on the latest "Unrestricted."
"The Main Event" is coming to Netflix April 10.
Daniel Bryan has indicated he isn't likely to sign another big wrestling deal when his current contract ends later this year. He intends to take six weeks off when Brie Bella gives birth again, which will likely be near the end of his current deal. He didn't rule out occasional matches after 2020, but his focus will be on his family. That's really not a surprise given previous statements. He's made money and had big moments. He's ready to move to another chapter of his life.
NXT's interviews were filmed Tuesday at the WWE Performance Center. Triple H and Tom Phillips' segments were filmed at WWE headquarters.
Paige and Renee Young were part of a special FS1 broadcast watching past women's matches. This was kind of a make good for no Backstage this week.
Cody and the Young Bucks have set up phone numbers for fan feedback. That's very, very personalized, and I hope they don't regret opening themselves up like that.
AEW staff and talent were medically evaluated before Dynamite. Glad they're taking it seriously.
Dynamite drew 932,000 viewers this week. That's very impressive given the circumstances.
NXT drew 542,000 viewers this week, the lowest audience in the show's history. Obviously not having any new matches was the key factor there. I expect some usual NXT viewers watched TNT this week, which gives AEW an opportunity to turn them into more regular fans.
New Day will appear on "All That" this weekend. That's perfect!
Rebellion has added Sami Callihan vs. Ken Shamrock. That makes sense following this week's Impact. I'm curious where both of them go from there, since as a top heel Sami will almost inevitably match up with Eddie Edwards and Tessa Blanchard yet again.
NJPW President Harold Meij spoke to Sports Illustrated:
- They've got their work cut out for them filling MSG without Jericho, Moxley, and The Elite.
- Wow. Doing an annual MSG event is a very tall order!
- Reading between the lines, it sounds like NJPW doesn't want to work with one of ROH's competitors, and they could be shading The Elite for leaving.
Eddie Kingston spoke to Chris Van Vliet. I'm glad he's still active.
Stardom, its owner, and two competitors are being sued by the former managers of those two competitors. The wrestlers in question are Tam Nakano and Itsuki Hoshino, and the lawsuit claims those two are still under contract to the manager. There is also an allegation that Nakano's contract was breached because she was promised a major title win that didn't occur. Nakano and Hoshino are said to be happy in Stardom and not wanting anything to do with these figures anymore. I hope this doesn't hurt Stardom or those wrestlers at a time when they can really grow.
Japan's Yoshiaku Yatsu is returning to the ring after a leg amputation during DDT's June 7 event. That should be notable.
The former TNA Asylum has been torn down.
Alberto El Patron has claimed he has spoken to WWE about a return. I'm curious how that would go.
ROH filmed material for TV while talent were in town for the 18th anniversary weekend events that didn't occur. It's going to be tough to fill TV time during the outbreak, but I suspect they might still have shows featuring past material.
WWE is facing further class action lawsuits over their stock price falling. This is why lawyers have such bad reputations.
The Revival are expected to be benched for the remaining months of their contracts.
WWE sent an Illinois independent promotion cease and desist letters for looking to run shows as "In Your Warehouse," a take on WWE's old "In Your House" PPVs. As such, the shows will now be called "Warehouse Wars."
Sonya Deville discussed representation in wrestling and more. We'll see if WWE goes ahead with any LGBTQ+ elements.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. There aren't a ton to pull from, but the MCMG/Bucks match was hardly one I'd put in the category as the others. It didn't feel particularly meaningful.
2. It's really become iconic.
3. Honestly I think he'd be more likely to come in as a trainer or coach given his experience there. They've got plenty of younger fliers.
4. Honestly, no. Having a great match with people who have great matches with everyone isn't really indicative of much. I like Kazarian but he wasn't someone I'd have pushed as a top name at that time. He was better as a tag team guy.
5. Nothing to add to 5.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- WWE has postponed their South African tour to September 10 through September 12.
- Rob Schamberger is launching a virtual convention. That's clever!
- Game Changer Wrestling is running an Acid Cup to get its performers work.
- Smackdown's March 27 episode will be taped tomorrow at the WWE Performance Center.
- WWE will pre-tape content in the days ahead for Raw and Smackdown to lead up to WrestleMania. It's possible that event itself will be pre-taped, as amazing as that sounds.
- Brock Lesnar may or may not be able to appear, since he lives in Saskatchewan. That would obviously greatly change plans.
- The WWE Performance Center has suspended training and working activities during the outbreak.
- WWE talent and staff are being told they don't have to attend shows if they aren't comfortable doing so. That should show just how grave things are.
- NJPW has canceled its April 2 Florida show.
- OVW has canceled TV tapings until April 7. It has also suspended training.
- WWE canceled a major tryout's in-ring aspect. Talents instead just cut promos. I hope they're able to return.
Nick Jackson's injury angle is for family leave, as his wife is expecting to deliver soon.
Brodie Lee was always planned as the Exalted One. AEW teased other directions as red herrings. They did a good job of keeping fans guessing.
King Corbin is on the latest "After The Bell"
Matt Hardy's Dynamite music was performed by Reby.
Billy Gunn is on the latest "Unrestricted."
"The Main Event" is coming to Netflix April 10.
Daniel Bryan has indicated he isn't likely to sign another big wrestling deal when his current contract ends later this year. He intends to take six weeks off when Brie Bella gives birth again, which will likely be near the end of his current deal. He didn't rule out occasional matches after 2020, but his focus will be on his family. That's really not a surprise given previous statements. He's made money and had big moments. He's ready to move to another chapter of his life.
NXT's interviews were filmed Tuesday at the WWE Performance Center. Triple H and Tom Phillips' segments were filmed at WWE headquarters.
Paige and Renee Young were part of a special FS1 broadcast watching past women's matches. This was kind of a make good for no Backstage this week.
Cody and the Young Bucks have set up phone numbers for fan feedback. That's very, very personalized, and I hope they don't regret opening themselves up like that.
AEW staff and talent were medically evaluated before Dynamite. Glad they're taking it seriously.
Dynamite drew 932,000 viewers this week. That's very impressive given the circumstances.
NXT drew 542,000 viewers this week, the lowest audience in the show's history. Obviously not having any new matches was the key factor there. I expect some usual NXT viewers watched TNT this week, which gives AEW an opportunity to turn them into more regular fans.
New Day will appear on "All That" this weekend. That's perfect!
Rebellion has added Sami Callihan vs. Ken Shamrock. That makes sense following this week's Impact. I'm curious where both of them go from there, since as a top heel Sami will almost inevitably match up with Eddie Edwards and Tessa Blanchard yet again.
NJPW President Harold Meij spoke to Sports Illustrated:
- They've got their work cut out for them filling MSG without Jericho, Moxley, and The Elite.
- Wow. Doing an annual MSG event is a very tall order!
- Reading between the lines, it sounds like NJPW doesn't want to work with one of ROH's competitors, and they could be shading The Elite for leaving.
Eddie Kingston spoke to Chris Van Vliet. I'm glad he's still active.
Stardom, its owner, and two competitors are being sued by the former managers of those two competitors. The wrestlers in question are Tam Nakano and Itsuki Hoshino, and the lawsuit claims those two are still under contract to the manager. There is also an allegation that Nakano's contract was breached because she was promised a major title win that didn't occur. Nakano and Hoshino are said to be happy in Stardom and not wanting anything to do with these figures anymore. I hope this doesn't hurt Stardom or those wrestlers at a time when they can really grow.
Japan's Yoshiaku Yatsu is returning to the ring after a leg amputation during DDT's June 7 event. That should be notable.
The former TNA Asylum has been torn down.
Alberto El Patron has claimed he has spoken to WWE about a return. I'm curious how that would go.
ROH filmed material for TV while talent were in town for the 18th anniversary weekend events that didn't occur. It's going to be tough to fill TV time during the outbreak, but I suspect they might still have shows featuring past material.
WWE is facing further class action lawsuits over their stock price falling. This is why lawyers have such bad reputations.
The Revival are expected to be benched for the remaining months of their contracts.
WWE sent an Illinois independent promotion cease and desist letters for looking to run shows as "In Your Warehouse," a take on WWE's old "In Your House" PPVs. As such, the shows will now be called "Warehouse Wars."
Sonya Deville discussed representation in wrestling and more. We'll see if WWE goes ahead with any LGBTQ+ elements.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. There aren't a ton to pull from, but the MCMG/Bucks match was hardly one I'd put in the category as the others. It didn't feel particularly meaningful.
2. It's really become iconic.
3. Honestly I think he'd be more likely to come in as a trainer or coach given his experience there. They've got plenty of younger fliers.
4. Honestly, no. Having a great match with people who have great matches with everyone isn't really indicative of much. I like Kazarian but he wasn't someone I'd have pushed as a top name at that time. He was better as a tag team guy.
5. Nothing to add to 5.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Thursday, March 19, 2020
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, assorted wrestling notes, Steiner update, new Cena book, WM36 split across two nights, AEW debuts, future Dynamite matches, and Questions on fans virtually attending Mania, not postponing Mania, MJF, and Mania returning to Tampa
NXT was not covered this week due to not having any matches.
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- WrestlePro is holding a food drive.
- Cauliflower Alley Club has canceled their April reunion.
- The Bump was a recap episode this week.
- Raw's March 21 live event is officially canceled.
- Sports Illustrated spoke with WWE about precautions.
- PROGRESS has canceled events on March 29 and April 20, and postponed shows set for May 9 and May 10. Super Strong Style 16 is now set for August.
- RevPro has changed the following dates:
-- March 26 is now May 28
-- April 4 is now July 4
-- April 5 is now June 7
-- April 12 is now June 14
-- April 19 is TBA
-- May 2, if it must be changed, will be July 25
-- May 8 is now August 14
- AEW is being cautious about whether they'll be able to run Dynamite next week. They were very intentional about not saying "next week" when discussing the show in case things do change.
- WWE's Madison Square Garden show has officially been moved to June 27.
EVOLVE released Velveteen Dream vs. Darby Allin from EVOLVE 113.
Becky Lynch, Sonya Deville, and Zelina Vega received custom shoes.
AEW's original plan for Dynamite in Florida was to have the live gate go to charity.
Scott Steiner appeared at a Georgia indie event to discuss his recent health scare. Glad he's doing well enough to appear again.
Referee James Forsyth has a GoFundMe to assist with cancer surgery.
Highspots.com is running a 50% off DVD and videos sale.
John Cena has a new book in the Elbow Grease series.
WWE Network's streaming service move was covered.
Kassius Ohno looked at his debut match with Mark Andrews.
WrestleMania 36 has been split across two nights, with Rob Gronkowski serving as the host. That's historic!
- The event will take place at multiple "closed set" locations. This show is going to be memorable in a number of ways.
- A large part of this approach is due to limiting the number of people in one place at one time during the outbreak. It also of course can help make the show stand out more than being in the same place for a long period of time.
AEW's Exalted One has been revealed as Brodie Lee, formerly Luke Harper in WWE. He, Evil Uno, and Stu Grayson attacked SCU after Brodie's appearance. I'm curious how he'll do there and if it was a wise move to tie him with Dark Order.
Matt Hardy appeared at the end of Dynamite, with the announcement he'll replace Nick Jackson in Blood & Guts. That's a meaningful way to debut him.
Dynamite's next episode will feature, in addition to the Blood & Guts match:
- Wardlow vs. Luchasaurus in a Lumberjack match
- Lucha Bros vs. Best Friends in a parking lot fight
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I don't like that idea at all. The last thing some wrestling fans need is a bigger spotlight and encouragement to make the show about themselves. I'm almost starting to prefer empty crowds!
2. Vince McMahon wants WrestleMania in April and he's going to get WrestleMania in April!
3. Thanks for the laugh! It looks like he started wrestling as MJF four years ago.
4. I would think the city will get another chance to host the show down the line. The cancelation isn't their fault.
5. Let's just say I'm glad I didn't have to make that decision one way or another.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- WrestlePro is holding a food drive.
- Cauliflower Alley Club has canceled their April reunion.
- The Bump was a recap episode this week.
- Raw's March 21 live event is officially canceled.
- Sports Illustrated spoke with WWE about precautions.
- PROGRESS has canceled events on March 29 and April 20, and postponed shows set for May 9 and May 10. Super Strong Style 16 is now set for August.
- RevPro has changed the following dates:
-- March 26 is now May 28
-- April 4 is now July 4
-- April 5 is now June 7
-- April 12 is now June 14
-- April 19 is TBA
-- May 2, if it must be changed, will be July 25
-- May 8 is now August 14
- AEW is being cautious about whether they'll be able to run Dynamite next week. They were very intentional about not saying "next week" when discussing the show in case things do change.
- WWE's Madison Square Garden show has officially been moved to June 27.
EVOLVE released Velveteen Dream vs. Darby Allin from EVOLVE 113.
Becky Lynch, Sonya Deville, and Zelina Vega received custom shoes.
AEW's original plan for Dynamite in Florida was to have the live gate go to charity.
Scott Steiner appeared at a Georgia indie event to discuss his recent health scare. Glad he's doing well enough to appear again.
Referee James Forsyth has a GoFundMe to assist with cancer surgery.
Highspots.com is running a 50% off DVD and videos sale.
John Cena has a new book in the Elbow Grease series.
WWE Network's streaming service move was covered.
Kassius Ohno looked at his debut match with Mark Andrews.
WrestleMania 36 has been split across two nights, with Rob Gronkowski serving as the host. That's historic!
- The event will take place at multiple "closed set" locations. This show is going to be memorable in a number of ways.
- A large part of this approach is due to limiting the number of people in one place at one time during the outbreak. It also of course can help make the show stand out more than being in the same place for a long period of time.
AEW's Exalted One has been revealed as Brodie Lee, formerly Luke Harper in WWE. He, Evil Uno, and Stu Grayson attacked SCU after Brodie's appearance. I'm curious how he'll do there and if it was a wise move to tie him with Dark Order.
Matt Hardy appeared at the end of Dynamite, with the announcement he'll replace Nick Jackson in Blood & Guts. That's a meaningful way to debut him.
Dynamite's next episode will feature, in addition to the Blood & Guts match:
- Wardlow vs. Luchasaurus in a Lumberjack match
- Lucha Bros vs. Best Friends in a parking lot fight
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I don't like that idea at all. The last thing some wrestling fans need is a bigger spotlight and encouragement to make the show about themselves. I'm almost starting to prefer empty crowds!
2. Vince McMahon wants WrestleMania in April and he's going to get WrestleMania in April!
3. Thanks for the laugh! It looks like he started wrestling as MJF four years ago.
4. I would think the city will get another chance to host the show down the line. The cancelation isn't their fault.
5. Let's just say I'm glad I didn't have to make that decision one way or another.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, top names on Raw, Raw notes, WWE MSG return update, Raw audience, WrestleCon doesn't have to pay, Rock shouts out Baszler, AEW merchandise helping coronavirus, AEW name missing Dynamite, free wrestling content, Benoit VICE trailer, and Questions on Tessa as champion, Shayna's Chamber booking, changing NXT names, and hiding talents
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- AAA has postponed all events until further notice.
- WWE is considering holding the Hall of Fame ceremony at Summerslam.
- Starz' "Heels" has halted production.
- ROH has canceled all events through the end of May. So, Supercard, the Pure Championship tournament, the Women's Championship tournament, and War of the Worlds are all off. That's very, very significant. ROH is extending Honorclub subscriptions for 90 days as a result.
- NXT this week will see changes in its production, focusing on interviews and other outside-of-the-ring content.
- Smackdown on Friday and Raw on Monday will air from the WWE Performance Center. Raw's March 23 date is being moved to a Smackdown taping on July 31.
- NWA streamed NWA 70 last night and is releasing special merchandise to benefit staff.
Brock Lesnar, Randy Orton, and Drew McIntyre are advertised for Raw next week.
Edge had travel issues Monday, but was able to drive from North Carolina to Florida. That's dedication!
Becky Lynch's truck was going to be part of her WrestleMania entrance. I wonder how much that cost.
Stone Cold indicated he had x-rays after Raw.
WWE is set to return to Madison Square Garden on June 27. This date was booked before the coronavirus scare.
Raw drew 2.34 million viewers this week. I would think Steve Austin's appearance would have something to do with that.
WrestleCon will not be charged by the local hotel for canceling their event due to the emergency declaration issued regarding large gatherings. It's asinine that the hotel considered otherwise.
The Rock supported Shayna Baszler on Twitter. Always cool to see that.
Chris Jericho and Cody have T-shirts supporting coronavirus relief. At least Jericringe is being channeled for good now.
Marko Stunt is likely missing Dynamite due to feeling unwell.
Colt Cabana released his Wrestling Road Diaries movie online for free.
EVOLVE released Adam Cole vs. Walter for free. NICE.
Chris Benoit's "Dark Side of the Ring" episode got a trailer. That's going to be tough to watch.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. It made sense with how they had booked her. It wasn't a spur-of-the-moment publicity stunt. It's worth the chance to have another credible main event presence and do something fresh.
2. I love it!
3. Right? The people who want them to push new talent, particularly from NXT, should have seen that match as a way to build Shayna pretty decisively. I see what people wanted the match to be, but WWE wisely chose to establish the star.
4. I think it's just a matter of liking the name Raquel more for her character.
5. I think it's related to Parts Unknown. Either that or Hornswoggle rents by the hour. No, the ring crew will disguise someone on the way to the ring while the lights are out during a commercial or video package.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- AAA has postponed all events until further notice.
- WWE is considering holding the Hall of Fame ceremony at Summerslam.
- Starz' "Heels" has halted production.
- ROH has canceled all events through the end of May. So, Supercard, the Pure Championship tournament, the Women's Championship tournament, and War of the Worlds are all off. That's very, very significant. ROH is extending Honorclub subscriptions for 90 days as a result.
- NXT this week will see changes in its production, focusing on interviews and other outside-of-the-ring content.
- Smackdown on Friday and Raw on Monday will air from the WWE Performance Center. Raw's March 23 date is being moved to a Smackdown taping on July 31.
- NWA streamed NWA 70 last night and is releasing special merchandise to benefit staff.
Brock Lesnar, Randy Orton, and Drew McIntyre are advertised for Raw next week.
Edge had travel issues Monday, but was able to drive from North Carolina to Florida. That's dedication!
Becky Lynch's truck was going to be part of her WrestleMania entrance. I wonder how much that cost.
Stone Cold indicated he had x-rays after Raw.
WWE is set to return to Madison Square Garden on June 27. This date was booked before the coronavirus scare.
Raw drew 2.34 million viewers this week. I would think Steve Austin's appearance would have something to do with that.
WrestleCon will not be charged by the local hotel for canceling their event due to the emergency declaration issued regarding large gatherings. It's asinine that the hotel considered otherwise.
The Rock supported Shayna Baszler on Twitter. Always cool to see that.
Chris Jericho and Cody have T-shirts supporting coronavirus relief. At least Jericringe is being channeled for good now.
Marko Stunt is likely missing Dynamite due to feeling unwell.
Colt Cabana released his Wrestling Road Diaries movie online for free.
EVOLVE released Adam Cole vs. Walter for free. NICE.
Chris Benoit's "Dark Side of the Ring" episode got a trailer. That's going to be tough to watch.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. It made sense with how they had booked her. It wasn't a spur-of-the-moment publicity stunt. It's worth the chance to have another credible main event presence and do something fresh.
2. I love it!
3. Right? The people who want them to push new talent, particularly from NXT, should have seen that match as a way to build Shayna pretty decisively. I see what people wanted the match to be, but WWE wisely chose to establish the star.
4. I think it's just a matter of liking the name Raquel more for her character.
5. I think it's related to Parts Unknown. Either that or Hornswoggle rents by the hour. No, the ring crew will disguise someone on the way to the ring while the lights are out during a commercial or video package.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 17, 2020
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, HoFer official, podcast guests, ROH merch deal, new WM match, and Questions on having WM on TV, hiring wrestlers rather than models, Jinder's future, and destroying vehicles
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- NWA has canceled Crockett Cup and upcoming Powerrr tapings.
- Impact has postponed their March 28 and March 29 events. Talents are being paid for the dates regardless. Glad to see that.
- Dynamite's April 15 Massachusetts episode has been rescheduled to August 5.
- Dynamite will tape at closed sets until further notice.
- WrestleMania (!!!!) will take place at the WWE Performance Center on the scheduled date. That's historic.
- WrestleCon has been canceled. The hotel hosting the event is seeking more than $114,000 due for the change in plans, effectively making them the biggest heels of the weekend.
- The WWE Hall of Fame ceremony and Takeover:Tampa will not take place as scheduled. One would think they'd also move to the WWE Performance Center.
- WWN Wrestlexpo has been canceled.
- GCW's weekend events have been canceled. This includes Bloodsport and Joey Janela's Spring Break.
Jushin "Thunder" Liger has been announced for the WWE Hall of Fame. Very, very cool to see.
Naomi is on Lilian Garcia's latest podcast.
Nikki Cross is on Isaiah Scott's latest podcast.
ROH now has merchandise through Lapel Yeah.
WrestleMania 36 has officially added Seth Rollins vs. Kevin Owens.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I would think the networks would be willing to have those big matches on TV, but I would be surprised to see them entirely forego such a major event. There are still places that have it on PPV, and it drives Network subscriptions.
2. WWE is absolutely signing people with wrestling resumes more than attractive models now.
3. I haven't seen anything about him medically cleared. I just hope people don't get their hopes up about him doing more than facing Rob Gronkowski or challenging for the 24/7 Championship.
4. Yes, the promotion buys them to be destroyed. Pretty cool, right?
5 is specific to that site, so no comment.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- NWA has canceled Crockett Cup and upcoming Powerrr tapings.
- Impact has postponed their March 28 and March 29 events. Talents are being paid for the dates regardless. Glad to see that.
- Dynamite's April 15 Massachusetts episode has been rescheduled to August 5.
- Dynamite will tape at closed sets until further notice.
- WrestleMania (!!!!) will take place at the WWE Performance Center on the scheduled date. That's historic.
- WrestleCon has been canceled. The hotel hosting the event is seeking more than $114,000 due for the change in plans, effectively making them the biggest heels of the weekend.
- The WWE Hall of Fame ceremony and Takeover:Tampa will not take place as scheduled. One would think they'd also move to the WWE Performance Center.
- WWN Wrestlexpo has been canceled.
- GCW's weekend events have been canceled. This includes Bloodsport and Joey Janela's Spring Break.
Jushin "Thunder" Liger has been announced for the WWE Hall of Fame. Very, very cool to see.
Naomi is on Lilian Garcia's latest podcast.
Nikki Cross is on Isaiah Scott's latest podcast.
ROH now has merchandise through Lapel Yeah.
WrestleMania 36 has officially added Seth Rollins vs. Kevin Owens.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I would think the networks would be willing to have those big matches on TV, but I would be surprised to see them entirely forego such a major event. There are still places that have it on PPV, and it drives Network subscriptions.
2. WWE is absolutely signing people with wrestling resumes more than attractive models now.
3. I haven't seen anything about him medically cleared. I just hope people don't get their hopes up about him doing more than facing Rob Gronkowski or challenging for the 24/7 Championship.
4. Yes, the promotion buys them to be destroyed. Pretty cool, right?
5 is specific to that site, so no comment.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Monday, March 16, 2020
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, UK retirement, another legend at Raw, Dynamite update, another Smackdown note, Interview with Lawler, and Questions on AEW's racier elements, and WrestleMania's status
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates:
- WWN is offering a free month of their subscription service.
- XFL players are now able to sign with other football leagues due to the league's season cancelation.
- MLW is suspending events for 45 days. Their April 18 event is being rescheduled to June 12.
- WWE talent have been told they can miss tapings without repercussions.
- WWE employees are being advised to work from home if possible.
- SHIMMER has postponed their March 28 and March 29 events.
- RISE has postponed their March 27 event. This was scheduled to be their final sole live event.
Dragon Gate and UK star Martin Kirby has announced his retirement.
Edge is advertised for Raw. Should be a noteworthy show.
Dynamite this week will have a match to determine which team gets the advantage in Blood & Guts.
Vince McMahon was not at Smackdown.
Jerry Lawler was on Cerrito Live recently.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
Nothing to add to 1, 2, or 3.
4. Ultimately, yes, as any such elements have been approved by him.
5. I expect the show to go on in the Performance Center or another location with no fans allowed to attend.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- WWN is offering a free month of their subscription service.
- XFL players are now able to sign with other football leagues due to the league's season cancelation.
- MLW is suspending events for 45 days. Their April 18 event is being rescheduled to June 12.
- WWE talent have been told they can miss tapings without repercussions.
- WWE employees are being advised to work from home if possible.
- SHIMMER has postponed their March 28 and March 29 events.
- RISE has postponed their March 27 event. This was scheduled to be their final sole live event.
Dragon Gate and UK star Martin Kirby has announced his retirement.
Edge is advertised for Raw. Should be a noteworthy show.
Dynamite this week will have a match to determine which team gets the advantage in Blood & Guts.
Vince McMahon was not at Smackdown.
Jerry Lawler was on Cerrito Live recently.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
Nothing to add to 1, 2, or 3.
4. Ultimately, yes, as any such elements have been approved by him.
5. I expect the show to go on in the Performance Center or another location with no fans allowed to attend.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Sunday, March 15, 2020
More coronavirus cancelations, Shane comments on Liddell-WWE, Ryder's toy room profiled, Saturday Night episodes added to WWE Network, Smackdown audience, Matt Hardy denies trademark story, Interview with Becky, past Mania matches on YouTube, and Questions on Smackdown from the WWEPC, running MSG with no fans, Mania options, and Raw's status
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, in chronological order:
- OVW has canceled TV tapings until April 7
- AAA has postponed Rey de Reyes, which was to feature Kenny Omega vs. Laredo Kid.
- The Rock's Netflix production is taking two weeks off.
- CMLL is suspending operations until further notice.
- Mick Foley and Dolph Ziggler's comedy tour has postponed its Texas shows.
- Lockdown will not be taking place at BCW's venue in Ontario.
- Will Ospreay and WrestleTalk are putting on a no fans event Monday.
- House of Hardcore's April 11 events have been canceled.
- CZW Unapproved will stream live with no fans in attendance.
Shane McMahon commented on Chuck Liddell coming to WWE and the coronavirus. He's not in the WrestleMania decision-making process, so he shouldn't have commented on the show running or not. As for Liddell coming yo WWE, it wouldn't shock me, but I don't think Shane really has any say in that, either.
Zack Ryder's toy room was profiled. That's a very impressive collection.
WWE Network is adding WCW Saturday Night episodes from May 29, 1993 through September 18, 1993 Monday.
Smackdown drew 2.59 million viewers Friday night, up a bit from last week.
Matt Hardy denied stories of trademarking "Twist of Fate." Interesting. I guess WWE just didn't want to remind fans of the move Jeff's brother does.
Becky Lynch discussed Ronda Rousey, Shayna Baszler, and more.
WWE has uploaded past WrestleMania matches to YouTube, including Hulk Hogan vs. Ultimate Warrior and Triple H vs. The Undertaker at WrestleMania 27.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. It was definitely unique and tongue-in-cheek. If BTE and/or Matt Hardy did something similar, I'm sure fans would praise it, but that is what it is.
2. Not happening. I would think it would be a big financial loss to run the building in front of so few paying people.
3. I would think they'd find another venue to run it in, even if that venue is the Performance Center. I would be really surprised to see them postpone the show entirely.
4.a. Almost certainly a way to fill TV time as they had to put a show together at the last minute.
4.b. I wouldn't be surprised to see Elimination Chamber content or other previously shown matches on the show.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- OVW has canceled TV tapings until April 7
- AAA has postponed Rey de Reyes, which was to feature Kenny Omega vs. Laredo Kid.
- The Rock's Netflix production is taking two weeks off.
- CMLL is suspending operations until further notice.
- Mick Foley and Dolph Ziggler's comedy tour has postponed its Texas shows.
- Lockdown will not be taking place at BCW's venue in Ontario.
- Will Ospreay and WrestleTalk are putting on a no fans event Monday.
- House of Hardcore's April 11 events have been canceled.
- CZW Unapproved will stream live with no fans in attendance.
Shane McMahon commented on Chuck Liddell coming to WWE and the coronavirus. He's not in the WrestleMania decision-making process, so he shouldn't have commented on the show running or not. As for Liddell coming yo WWE, it wouldn't shock me, but I don't think Shane really has any say in that, either.
Zack Ryder's toy room was profiled. That's a very impressive collection.
WWE Network is adding WCW Saturday Night episodes from May 29, 1993 through September 18, 1993 Monday.
Smackdown drew 2.59 million viewers Friday night, up a bit from last week.
Matt Hardy denied stories of trademarking "Twist of Fate." Interesting. I guess WWE just didn't want to remind fans of the move Jeff's brother does.
Becky Lynch discussed Ronda Rousey, Shayna Baszler, and more.
WWE has uploaded past WrestleMania matches to YouTube, including Hulk Hogan vs. Ultimate Warrior and Triple H vs. The Undertaker at WrestleMania 27.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. It was definitely unique and tongue-in-cheek. If BTE and/or Matt Hardy did something similar, I'm sure fans would praise it, but that is what it is.
2. Not happening. I would think it would be a big financial loss to run the building in front of so few paying people.
3. I would think they'd find another venue to run it in, even if that venue is the Performance Center. I would be really surprised to see them postpone the show entirely.
4.a. Almost certainly a way to fill TV time as they had to put a show together at the last minute.
4.b. I wouldn't be surprised to see Elimination Chamber content or other previously shown matches on the show.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Saturday, March 14, 2020
Coronavirus cancelations, assorted wrestling press, new Dynamite match, MLW owner misses big taping, EVOLVE releases free show, Interviews with Butcher/Matt Hardy/Arquette, HHH corporate change, more on Paige/Nia, why WWE changed finisher name, WWEPC change, Smackdown preview, WWE star trademarks ring name, and Questions on virus cancelations, Ricochet's future, and the tiered Network
Coronavirus-related wrestling updates, in chronological order:
- WWE has canceled all live events this weekend.
- WWE Backstage will not be taped this week.
- Raw will be at the WWE Performance Center.
- NXT will tape at the WWE Performance Center for multiple weeks, as Full Sail has canceled group events through the end of April.
- EVOLVE's scheduled seminar/tryout set for this weekend has also been postponed to May 8 and May 9.
- Dynamite's April 1 Wisconsin episode has been postponed to October 28.
- Dynamite's April 8 Missouri episode has been postponed to October 7.
- Kevin Owens' speaking show in Scotland has been moved to June 5.
- NEW's March 27 show has been postponed.
WWE has released a line of 47 Brand Vintage Tubular shirts for classic events.
WWE 2K20 has released its "Empire of Tomorrow" DLC. That looks pretty cool.
Dynamite has added Luchasaurus and Jungle Boy vs. The Butcher and The Blade.
MLW owner Court Bauer wasn't at the MLW-AAA show Friday due to negotiating a TV deal. Konnan and Mr. Saint Laurent ran things in his absence.
EVOLVE 146 has been released for free on YouTube.
Roman Reigns is on the cover of the next Muscle & Fitness.
WrestleMania will air in Northern Ireland's Odyssey Cinemas.
AEW's The Butcher talked about balancing music and wrestling.
Savio Vega is doing seminars with Canada's CWE later this month.
Joey Janela is set for Australia's World Series of Wrestling in June.
Houston's wrestling exhibit got press.
Matt Hardy spoke to Bill Apter.
David Arquette's wrestling documentary has been profiled.
Triple H is no longer in charge of talent relations or WWE legal due to his new corporate position focusing on expanding Performance Centers internationally and other NXT-related duties. These roles will be taken over by Vince McMahon's chief of staff. This change led to stories of Triple H being "demoted," which H referenced himself at Smackdown.
Paige was not at Smackdown due to a change in plans.
Nia Jax was not at Smackdown as initially planned. I can't help but think that's linked to Paige's situation.
Jeff Hardy's finisher is now called The Twist of Fury due to Matt Hardy owning the name "Twist of Fate." Awkward!
WWE moved the Performance Center's usual rings to a local warehouse in order to make room for what they utilized for TV.
Smackdown next week has announced:
- Rob Gronkowski appearing
- Goldberg and Roman Reigns having a contract signing
Dash Wilder has trademarked the name "Cash Wheeler." That's hilariously bad.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I don't believe so.
2. Let's just say I don't see him being used as prominently as he was going into Super Showdown, though that wasn't a very realistic prospect anyway. I do hope he can move up from Main Event and the 24/7 title picture, though.
3. It looks that way for televised shows, for the time being.
4. It sounds like it's on hold while they work on the streaming rights deal.
5. I really don't see them happening there then given the risks involved.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- WWE has canceled all live events this weekend.
- WWE Backstage will not be taped this week.
- Raw will be at the WWE Performance Center.
- NXT will tape at the WWE Performance Center for multiple weeks, as Full Sail has canceled group events through the end of April.
- EVOLVE's scheduled seminar/tryout set for this weekend has also been postponed to May 8 and May 9.
- Dynamite's April 1 Wisconsin episode has been postponed to October 28.
- Dynamite's April 8 Missouri episode has been postponed to October 7.
- Kevin Owens' speaking show in Scotland has been moved to June 5.
- NEW's March 27 show has been postponed.
WWE has released a line of 47 Brand Vintage Tubular shirts for classic events.
WWE 2K20 has released its "Empire of Tomorrow" DLC. That looks pretty cool.
Dynamite has added Luchasaurus and Jungle Boy vs. The Butcher and The Blade.
MLW owner Court Bauer wasn't at the MLW-AAA show Friday due to negotiating a TV deal. Konnan and Mr. Saint Laurent ran things in his absence.
EVOLVE 146 has been released for free on YouTube.
Roman Reigns is on the cover of the next Muscle & Fitness.
WrestleMania will air in Northern Ireland's Odyssey Cinemas.
AEW's The Butcher talked about balancing music and wrestling.
Savio Vega is doing seminars with Canada's CWE later this month.
Joey Janela is set for Australia's World Series of Wrestling in June.
Houston's wrestling exhibit got press.
Matt Hardy spoke to Bill Apter.
David Arquette's wrestling documentary has been profiled.
Triple H is no longer in charge of talent relations or WWE legal due to his new corporate position focusing on expanding Performance Centers internationally and other NXT-related duties. These roles will be taken over by Vince McMahon's chief of staff. This change led to stories of Triple H being "demoted," which H referenced himself at Smackdown.
Paige was not at Smackdown due to a change in plans.
Nia Jax was not at Smackdown as initially planned. I can't help but think that's linked to Paige's situation.
Jeff Hardy's finisher is now called The Twist of Fury due to Matt Hardy owning the name "Twist of Fate." Awkward!
WWE moved the Performance Center's usual rings to a local warehouse in order to make room for what they utilized for TV.
Smackdown next week has announced:
- Rob Gronkowski appearing
- Goldberg and Roman Reigns having a contract signing
Dash Wilder has trademarked the name "Cash Wheeler." That's hilariously bad.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. I don't believe so.
2. Let's just say I don't see him being used as prominently as he was going into Super Showdown, though that wasn't a very realistic prospect anyway. I do hope he can move up from Main Event and the 24/7 title picture, though.
3. It looks that way for televised shows, for the time being.
4. It sounds like it's on hold while they work on the streaming rights deal.
5. I really don't see them happening there then given the risks involved.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Main Event and 205 Live Reax - 3/13/20
Read on for my thoughts on yesterday's Main Event and 205 Live.
Friday Night Smackdown Reax - 3/13/20
Read on for my thoughts on last night's Friday Night Smackdown.
Friday, March 13, 2020
Coronavirus wrestling updates, WWE HoFer official, Raw injury, Interviews with Khan/Show, AEW name signed, ECW speaking tour, WWE series trailer, NXT notes, WWE does no makeup shoot, Dynamite+NXT audiences, Gronk-WWE update, more WWE lawsuits, Starr update, HoFer wrestling update, new CMLL title, big AAA event set, NXT UK name done, MLW-AAA update, former WWE exec sells stock, and why MMA names were at WWE HQ
Coronavirus-related stories, chronologically updated:
- Ireland's OTT has canceled their March 14 and March 15 events. Jon Moxley was scheduled to work the March 14 show.
- MLW has dropped meet and greet plans for WrestleMania week.
- AEW's New Jersey debut has been rescheduled for July 22.
- Fast & Furious 9 has been moved to April 2021.
- EVOLVE 147 has been postponed to May 8 in Michigan. EVOLVE 148 has been postponed to May 9 in Illinois.
- ROH canceled their March 12 meet and greet with PCO and Marty Scurll.
- WrestleMania 36 is currently planned to go on as scheduled. County officials will meet next week to discuss whether to cancel the event if WWE does not make the decision to do so on their own.
- Smackdown will be held at the WWE Performance Center this week. No fans will be able to attend.
- Raw's Madison Square Garden event on March 22 has been canceled, as the venue is shutting down under local decree.
- WrestleMania 36 has contingency plans being considered, but has not been moved at this time. I would be shocked if the show doesn't go on in some capacity.
- ROH canceled their 18th anniversary event as well as Past vs. Present. Some talents were already in town for the events or on their way when this decision was made.
- WWE's Sunday Ohio live event has been canceled.
- Dynamite next week will be held at the site of Fight for the Fallen under a restricted attendance policy. The New York show set for Wednesday has been rescheduled for July 22.
- Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling currently intends to resume shows March 21.
- wXw's WrestleMania week event has been canceled due to the European travel ban.
- PWG has postponed its March 29 event.
- XFL has canceled the remainder of its season. Players will be paid as if the games took place, and the league intends to return in 2021.
- Tony Khan has made it clear that employees can miss next week's show without consequence. That's big!
- WWE's Saturday Toronto live event has been canceled.
British Bulldog has been officially announced for the WWE Hall of Fame. Davey Boy Smith, Jr., Tyson Kidd and Natalya discussed the induction on "After The Bell." Glad to see him honored.
Rezar tore his right biceps during Raw. That's really going to put a damper on Seth Rollins' faction. We'll see what backup plan they devise. There are some NXT bruisers available (Killian Dain comes to mind) if they want to go that route.
Tony Khan is on "AEW Unrestricted" this week, recapped here:
- I admire how much of a public face he's been for the company; there are a lot of people with his resources who wouldn't be this involved.
- There aren't many people able or willing to give tens of millions of dollars to start a wrestling company, particularly with signing a large roster, giving competitive deals to top talents and going live on the road every week. This is a big part of what separates AEW from other promotions that have tried to carve out a niche.
- Again, it's great Khan has the huge amount of resources to pay talent that well.
- It's fair to wonder how long Khan was willing to fund the company if they didn't get the TV extension. It's clear he's dedicated (and loaded) but even that has its limits if something isn't successful. Luckily for him it's not a problem.
Dr. Luther has signed with AEW for a role on camera and behind-the-scenes. AEW continues to be an eclectic mix of personalities and styles. Some see that as a strength and others see it as a drawback.
Shane Douglas, The Sandman, and Justin Credible are launching a "Stories from the Extreme" live show tour focusing on their time in ECW. Their first announced shows are April 18 in Connecticut and June 14 in New York.
WWE's "Fight Like A Girl" series got a trailer.
NXT's audience this week was bussed in from Full Sail University a few miles away.
NXT's Tommaso Ciampa/Johnny Gargano brawl was shot live in its entirety. That was a hell of a segment.
Dynamite drew 766,000 viewers Wednesday night, a significant hit from previous episodes. It's likely coronavirus coverage affected this to a degree.
NXT drew 697,000 viewers this week, which was also on the low side. I think you can attribute some of that loss to the coronavirus coverage, too, but not nearly to the extent of Dynamite losing 140,000 viewers.
Dynamite drew around 2,500 fans this week, with around 500 fans who bought tickets not attending. That's a significant concern about the virus.
Rob Gronkowski is not currently wrestling at WrestleMania. His deal is only believed to be for a few matches, which was expected. I'm interested to see how they use him given that, especially given the rather sudden debut.
WWE is facing more lawsuits over their alleged misrepresentations of the company's financial health, largely dealing with the company's dealings in the Middle East. If these are as meritless as they seem, I hope WWE doesn't have to spend a lot of resources getting them dealt with.
David Starr is expected to stay at OTT, despite WWE's association with that company. WWE's opposition to Starr is said to be over his vocal pro-union stance, rather than stemming from the incident with the NXT UK Championship.
Beth Phoenix is still expected to wrestle at WrestleMania, teaming with Natalya in a triple threat match for the women's tag team championship also involving Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross as challengers.
Elimination Chamber was a legitimate sellout of 13,000 fans. That's good news!
CMLL is introducing Mexican women's tag team titles.
Triplemania Regia is set for October 10.
Killer Kelly is no longer with WWE. That's not particularly surprising given that she hadn't worked NXT UK since November.
MLW is planning another Mexico taping.
WWE's former co-president Michelle Wilson has sold all her WWE stock.
Ronda Rousey and Cain Velasquez were at WWE headquarters for meetings. A lot of talents are being brought in in that fashion due to corporate changes in WWE.
More wrestling tomorrow.
- Ireland's OTT has canceled their March 14 and March 15 events. Jon Moxley was scheduled to work the March 14 show.
- Sting and Diamond Dallas Page's MonsterMania convention appearances have been postponed. That event will now take place in August.
- MLW has dropped meet and greet plans for WrestleMania week.
- AEW's New Jersey debut has been rescheduled for July 22.
- Fast & Furious 9 has been moved to April 2021.
- EVOLVE 147 has been postponed to May 8 in Michigan. EVOLVE 148 has been postponed to May 9 in Illinois.
- ROH canceled their March 12 meet and greet with PCO and Marty Scurll.
- WrestleMania 36 is currently planned to go on as scheduled. County officials will meet next week to discuss whether to cancel the event if WWE does not make the decision to do so on their own.
- Smackdown will be held at the WWE Performance Center this week. No fans will be able to attend.
- Raw's Madison Square Garden event on March 22 has been canceled, as the venue is shutting down under local decree.
- WrestleMania 36 has contingency plans being considered, but has not been moved at this time. I would be shocked if the show doesn't go on in some capacity.
- ROH canceled their 18th anniversary event as well as Past vs. Present. Some talents were already in town for the events or on their way when this decision was made.
- WWE's Sunday Ohio live event has been canceled.
- Dynamite next week will be held at the site of Fight for the Fallen under a restricted attendance policy. The New York show set for Wednesday has been rescheduled for July 22.
- Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling currently intends to resume shows March 21.
- wXw's WrestleMania week event has been canceled due to the European travel ban.
- PWG has postponed its March 29 event.
- XFL has canceled the remainder of its season. Players will be paid as if the games took place, and the league intends to return in 2021.
- Tony Khan has made it clear that employees can miss next week's show without consequence. That's big!
- WWE's Saturday Toronto live event has been canceled.
British Bulldog has been officially announced for the WWE Hall of Fame. Davey Boy Smith, Jr., Tyson Kidd and Natalya discussed the induction on "After The Bell." Glad to see him honored.
Rezar tore his right biceps during Raw. That's really going to put a damper on Seth Rollins' faction. We'll see what backup plan they devise. There are some NXT bruisers available (Killian Dain comes to mind) if they want to go that route.
Tony Khan is on "AEW Unrestricted" this week, recapped here:
- I admire how much of a public face he's been for the company; there are a lot of people with his resources who wouldn't be this involved.
- There aren't many people able or willing to give tens of millions of dollars to start a wrestling company, particularly with signing a large roster, giving competitive deals to top talents and going live on the road every week. This is a big part of what separates AEW from other promotions that have tried to carve out a niche.
- Again, it's great Khan has the huge amount of resources to pay talent that well.
- It's fair to wonder how long Khan was willing to fund the company if they didn't get the TV extension. It's clear he's dedicated (and loaded) but even that has its limits if something isn't successful. Luckily for him it's not a problem.
Dr. Luther has signed with AEW for a role on camera and behind-the-scenes. AEW continues to be an eclectic mix of personalities and styles. Some see that as a strength and others see it as a drawback.
Shane Douglas, The Sandman, and Justin Credible are launching a "Stories from the Extreme" live show tour focusing on their time in ECW. Their first announced shows are April 18 in Connecticut and June 14 in New York.
WWE's "Fight Like A Girl" series got a trailer.
NXT's audience this week was bussed in from Full Sail University a few miles away.
NXT's Tommaso Ciampa/Johnny Gargano brawl was shot live in its entirety. That was a hell of a segment.
WWE did a no makeup photo shoot for Women's History Month.
Big Show answered Internet rumors.
Dynamite drew 766,000 viewers Wednesday night, a significant hit from previous episodes. It's likely coronavirus coverage affected this to a degree.
NXT drew 697,000 viewers this week, which was also on the low side. I think you can attribute some of that loss to the coronavirus coverage, too, but not nearly to the extent of Dynamite losing 140,000 viewers.
Dynamite drew around 2,500 fans this week, with around 500 fans who bought tickets not attending. That's a significant concern about the virus.
Rob Gronkowski is not currently wrestling at WrestleMania. His deal is only believed to be for a few matches, which was expected. I'm interested to see how they use him given that, especially given the rather sudden debut.
WWE is facing more lawsuits over their alleged misrepresentations of the company's financial health, largely dealing with the company's dealings in the Middle East. If these are as meritless as they seem, I hope WWE doesn't have to spend a lot of resources getting them dealt with.
David Starr is expected to stay at OTT, despite WWE's association with that company. WWE's opposition to Starr is said to be over his vocal pro-union stance, rather than stemming from the incident with the NXT UK Championship.
Beth Phoenix is still expected to wrestle at WrestleMania, teaming with Natalya in a triple threat match for the women's tag team championship also involving Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross as challengers.
Elimination Chamber was a legitimate sellout of 13,000 fans. That's good news!
CMLL is introducing Mexican women's tag team titles.
Triplemania Regia is set for October 10.
Killer Kelly is no longer with WWE. That's not particularly surprising given that she hadn't worked NXT UK since November.
MLW is planning another Mexico taping.
WWE's former co-president Michelle Wilson has sold all her WWE stock.
Ronda Rousey and Cain Velasquez were at WWE headquarters for meetings. A lot of talents are being brought in in that fashion due to corporate changes in WWE.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Thursday, March 12, 2020
NFL star signs WWE deal, Japanese name working U.S., international WWE tryout, Matt Hardy updates, Flamita update, next Backstage guest, Starz series update, NJPW names set for WOTW, Interview with Dunne, assorted wrestling press, Backstage audience, WWE HQ's coronavirus concerns, Cena on WWE TV, new ROH match, more Japanese events canceled, Booker T postpones show, MLW name returning to WWE, NXT dark matches, Blood & Guts rules, and Questions on Mansoor going over, Heyman doing Brock's promos, Canadian screwjobs, ROH having a women's division, and Dexter Lumis' whereabouts
Rob Gronkowski has signed with WWE as a wrestler. He is set to debut next week on Smackdown. WOW. They're putting him to work very quickly. I understand making use of his star power, but that's also putting big expectations on someone new to the business.
The Great Sasuke will face Low Ki on April 17 in Washington.
WWE will hold a South African tryout from April 29 through May 2, the first such tryout in that country.
Matt Hardy is booked for NEW's March 27 Connecticut event.
Flamita is being targeted for an April or May return.
C.M. Punk and Rhea Ripley will be on Backstage next week.
The Young Bucks are in Matt Hardy's latest video. This has been a wild ride.
Starz' wrestling drama "Heels" will begin filming in Georgia next month. Stephen Amell will be in the lead role.
- Former NFL player James Harrison has also been cast on the show.
War of the Worlds has announced Kenta and Tomohiro Ishii. That's a great start!
Pete Dunne spoke before NXT. I've enjoyed the Broserweights.
NXT UK's A Kid and Mark Andrews looked at A Kid's first match.
"The Big Show Show" was discussed on Popculture.com.
WWE Backstage reportedly drew 35,000 viewers this week. However, given the errors in the past two weeks, this number could end up adjusted.
WWE headquarters is rotating staff working at home in case the coronavirus outbreak causes the office to be shut down.
Ringside Collectibles posted an action figure casket match between masked Kane and Andrade. Honestly that could be a full series, but I imagine it takes a lot of time to make.
John Cena is set for Smackdown. I'm very interested to see how they'll book him.
ROH's April 10 event has added Rush vs. Bandido. That sounds amazing!
Dragon Gate has canceled events through March 22.
Booker T.'s Reality of Wrestling has postponed their March 14 PPV to April 11.
"Filthy" Tom Lawlor has signed with MMA's Professional Fighters' League.
Before NXT:
- Kacy Catanzaro and Kayden Carter defeated Aliyah and Santana Garrett
- Isaiah Scott defeated Austin Theory
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. Do they need another reason? As much as the Saudi government is paying for the shows, it's probably just a matter of time before he wins a title there.
2. Brock isn't an awful promo, but much prefers having Paul carry that part of the load. Brock just wants to show up, hit some suplexes (if he has to), and head home.
3. Ha! It's definitely been a theme there.
4. It's seen as mandatory in 2020, akin to a company not having a tag team division. I agree it generally hasn't been stellar.
5. He's pretty regularly on NXT live events. He's also done some EVOLVE events.
More wrestling tomorrow.
The Great Sasuke will face Low Ki on April 17 in Washington.
WWE will hold a South African tryout from April 29 through May 2, the first such tryout in that country.
Matt Hardy is booked for NEW's March 27 Connecticut event.
Flamita is being targeted for an April or May return.
C.M. Punk and Rhea Ripley will be on Backstage next week.
The Young Bucks are in Matt Hardy's latest video. This has been a wild ride.
Starz' wrestling drama "Heels" will begin filming in Georgia next month. Stephen Amell will be in the lead role.
- Former NFL player James Harrison has also been cast on the show.
War of the Worlds has announced Kenta and Tomohiro Ishii. That's a great start!
Pete Dunne spoke before NXT. I've enjoyed the Broserweights.
NXT UK's A Kid and Mark Andrews looked at A Kid's first match.
"The Big Show Show" was discussed on Popculture.com.
WWE Backstage reportedly drew 35,000 viewers this week. However, given the errors in the past two weeks, this number could end up adjusted.
WWE headquarters is rotating staff working at home in case the coronavirus outbreak causes the office to be shut down.
Ringside Collectibles posted an action figure casket match between masked Kane and Andrade. Honestly that could be a full series, but I imagine it takes a lot of time to make.
John Cena is set for Smackdown. I'm very interested to see how they'll book him.
ROH's April 10 event has added Rush vs. Bandido. That sounds amazing!
Dragon Gate has canceled events through March 22.
Booker T.'s Reality of Wrestling has postponed their March 14 PPV to April 11.
"Filthy" Tom Lawlor has signed with MMA's Professional Fighters' League.
Before NXT:
- Kacy Catanzaro and Kayden Carter defeated Aliyah and Santana Garrett
- Isaiah Scott defeated Austin Theory
WWE discussed Smackdown moving from Michigan due to coronavirus concerns Wednesday. More on this tomorrow.
Blood & Guts will be held under traditional WarGames rules. The match can only end via submission. I'm very curious to see how that goes.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. Do they need another reason? As much as the Saudi government is paying for the shows, it's probably just a matter of time before he wins a title there.
2. Brock isn't an awful promo, but much prefers having Paul carry that part of the load. Brock just wants to show up, hit some suplexes (if he has to), and head home.
3. Ha! It's definitely been a theme there.
4. It's seen as mandatory in 2020, akin to a company not having a tag team division. I agree it generally hasn't been stellar.
5. He's pretty regularly on NXT live events. He's also done some EVOLVE events.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 11, 2020
More coronavirus cancelations, assorted wrestling press, HHH gets new job title, WWE name cleared to return, final Pure Championship contender, new ROH PPV matches, AEW social milestone, Interviews with Ilja/Jericho/Nyla/Matt Hardy, Raw audience, AEW stars wrestling in NEW, NXT names at WWN, ROH card change, PWI publisher retiring, Crockett Cup details, MSG adds NXT match, Impact PPV main event, new WWE trademarks, sports star close to WWE deal, and Questions on switching Roman Mania matches, Cody as Jake's client, WWE's virus plans, and how Brock vs. Drew will go
NJPW has canceled the New Japan Cup tour's remaining dates due to the coronavirus. That tournament was going to determine the next challenger for Tetsuya Naito on March 31. No announcement has been made regarding the title match on that card, which one would assume is also possibly subject to cancellation.
All Japan has canceled shows through March 22 as part of coronavirus prevention.
WWE Shop has merchandise for Florida Championship Wrestling in time with the new documentary. Clever!
Braun Strowman did a hygiene PSA. I love it!
Triple H is now WWE's executive vice president of global talent strategy and development. A lengthy title, but an appropriately important one.
Nia Jax has been medically cleared to return to WWE. Hmmm maybe she's facing Bayley at WrestleMania?
- She will reportedly be at Smackdown on Friday, so that would indeed be a logical possibility.
Kalisto promoted WWE in Japan.
Sheamus promoted WWE in Ireland, which makes more sense.
Jay Lethal has been added to ROH's Pure Championship tournament, completing the field. That's a great move.
ROH's 18th anniversary PPV has added:
- PCO and Brody King vs. Rey Horus and Alex Zayne
- Bully Ray vs. Eli Isom
AEW's Instagram page has hit a million followers. That's better than Impact and ROH combined. It's amazing how quickly they've risen.
Ilja Dragunov discussed wanting to face Aleister Black and more. That would be great!
Raw drew 2.16 million viewers this week, despite Edge's advertised return and following Elimination Chamber. If WWE can't draw with something as big as the Edge-Orton angle, they're in trouble. It's a rough time for Monday viewership.
AEW's Darby Allin and Sammy Guevara will face off in NEW on March 27. Dan Maff is also set for the show. NEW is benefiting from the AEW relationship.
Tyler Breeze has been added to EVOLVE 150. Wow he's been brought even lower than NXT and 205 Live!
WWN's WRESTLExpo has added NXT UK's A-Kid. Glad to see him getting an opportunity there.
ROH signee Adam Brooks will not be at the 18th anniversary PPV due to travel issues. Jeff Cobb will replace him against Slex.
Battlestarr 2020 has added The Briscoes vs. Rush and Dragon Lee.
Chris Jericho spoke to TMZ about the coronavirus. I'm shocked no one's mentioned it in a promo yet.
Jordynne Grace has pulled out of a March 14 indie appearance due to her pending wedding. That's a pretty solid reason!
Nyla Rose was profiled by Great Big Story.
Matt Hardy spoke to Alicia Atout.
Pro Wrestling Illustrated's publisher and editor announced retirement effective June 5. That's really going to be a big change for wrestling.
NWA's Crockett Cup has announced The Rock 'n' Roll Express, Brody King and Flip Gordon, Rey Horus and Flamita, and Thom Latimer and Royce Isaacs. Three more teams will be announced, and a gauntlet match will determine the final team. Tim Storm, Ricky Starks, and Zicky Dice have been announced for that.
- The show will also feature Aron Stevens vs. Trevor Murdoch for the National Championship.
Raw's Madison Square Garden live event on March 22 has added Rhea Ripley vs. Bianca Belair for the NXT Women's Championship. WWE often gives that venue something extra.
Impact Rebellion will be headlined by Tessa Blanchard vs. Michael Elgin vs. Eddie Edwards for the Impact World Championship. That could really be amazing.
WWE has applied to trademark "Apex Predator" for Randy Orton, as well as "The Deadman" and "The Phenom" for The Undertaker.
Rob Gronkowski was reportedly very close to a WWE contract Tuesday. More on this tomorrow.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. It's possible. What we did end up with at WrestleMania 32 with Roman and Brock was underwhelming.
2. Honestly I don't think they should go that route. It feels like a swerve for the sake of a swerve. They've built Cody well as a babyface and should continue to do so.
3. They're going to keep things going as planned unless/until forces outside their control (venues, local governments) get involved.
4. I definitely expect them to protect Brock somehow in defeat. Heck, it's possible that match doesn't close the show.
5. I can't find anything.
More wrestling tomorrow.
All Japan has canceled shows through March 22 as part of coronavirus prevention.
WWE Shop has merchandise for Florida Championship Wrestling in time with the new documentary. Clever!
Braun Strowman did a hygiene PSA. I love it!
Triple H is now WWE's executive vice president of global talent strategy and development. A lengthy title, but an appropriately important one.
Nia Jax has been medically cleared to return to WWE. Hmmm maybe she's facing Bayley at WrestleMania?
- She will reportedly be at Smackdown on Friday, so that would indeed be a logical possibility.
Kalisto promoted WWE in Japan.
Sheamus promoted WWE in Ireland, which makes more sense.
Jay Lethal has been added to ROH's Pure Championship tournament, completing the field. That's a great move.
ROH's 18th anniversary PPV has added:
- PCO and Brody King vs. Rey Horus and Alex Zayne
- Bully Ray vs. Eli Isom
AEW's Instagram page has hit a million followers. That's better than Impact and ROH combined. It's amazing how quickly they've risen.
Ilja Dragunov discussed wanting to face Aleister Black and more. That would be great!
Raw drew 2.16 million viewers this week, despite Edge's advertised return and following Elimination Chamber. If WWE can't draw with something as big as the Edge-Orton angle, they're in trouble. It's a rough time for Monday viewership.
AEW's Darby Allin and Sammy Guevara will face off in NEW on March 27. Dan Maff is also set for the show. NEW is benefiting from the AEW relationship.
Tyler Breeze has been added to EVOLVE 150. Wow he's been brought even lower than NXT and 205 Live!
WWN's WRESTLExpo has added NXT UK's A-Kid. Glad to see him getting an opportunity there.
ROH signee Adam Brooks will not be at the 18th anniversary PPV due to travel issues. Jeff Cobb will replace him against Slex.
Battlestarr 2020 has added The Briscoes vs. Rush and Dragon Lee.
Chris Jericho spoke to TMZ about the coronavirus. I'm shocked no one's mentioned it in a promo yet.
Jordynne Grace has pulled out of a March 14 indie appearance due to her pending wedding. That's a pretty solid reason!
Nyla Rose was profiled by Great Big Story.
Matt Hardy spoke to Alicia Atout.
Pro Wrestling Illustrated's publisher and editor announced retirement effective June 5. That's really going to be a big change for wrestling.
NWA's Crockett Cup has announced The Rock 'n' Roll Express, Brody King and Flip Gordon, Rey Horus and Flamita, and Thom Latimer and Royce Isaacs. Three more teams will be announced, and a gauntlet match will determine the final team. Tim Storm, Ricky Starks, and Zicky Dice have been announced for that.
- The show will also feature Aron Stevens vs. Trevor Murdoch for the National Championship.
Raw's Madison Square Garden live event on March 22 has added Rhea Ripley vs. Bianca Belair for the NXT Women's Championship. WWE often gives that venue something extra.
Impact Rebellion will be headlined by Tessa Blanchard vs. Michael Elgin vs. Eddie Edwards for the Impact World Championship. That could really be amazing.
WWE has applied to trademark "Apex Predator" for Randy Orton, as well as "The Deadman" and "The Phenom" for The Undertaker.
Rob Gronkowski was reportedly very close to a WWE contract Tuesday. More on this tomorrow.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. It's possible. What we did end up with at WrestleMania 32 with Roman and Brock was underwhelming.
2. Honestly I don't think they should go that route. It feels like a swerve for the sake of a swerve. They've built Cody well as a babyface and should continue to do so.
3. They're going to keep things going as planned unless/until forces outside their control (venues, local governments) get involved.
4. I definitely expect them to protect Brock somehow in defeat. Heck, it's possible that match doesn't close the show.
5. I can't find anything.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 10, 2020
Assorted WM36 notes, Taker plan change, more Dynamites set, top international name leaves wXw, assorted wrestling notes, more Ruthless Aggression episodes coming, Lana update, more ROH tournament names, NXT live events set, top names announced for Smackdown, Raw segment set, what happened after Raw, and Questions on the Blood & Guts name, the next boom period, AEW's refereeing, Jinder being champion again, and Roman winning a Chamber match
WrestleMania 36 will be presented by Snickers for the fifth straight year.
Impact's parent company has struck a deal with iHeartMedia to market its content on that service. Impact was not specifically mentioned as part of the deal, but that would make sense. I hope that means more people paying attention to Impact.
WrestleMania DVDs for 15, 17, 18, and 19 will be re-released on March 23 as promotion for WrestleMania 36. Interesting move.
WrestleMania 36 will be released on DVD on May 12 in the U.S. and June 8 in the UK.
The Undertaker was set to appear on Raw this week. I don't mind him being saved for next week since Edge was on TV this week.
Dynamite's June 6 episode will be in Louisiana, at the site of Halloween Havoc 1993, November to Remember 1998, and Supercard of Honor XII among other shows.
Dynamite's June 13 episode will be in New Mexico. As best as I can tell, the venue has never held a wrestling show before.
David Starr has left wXw due to the promotion's WWE affiliation. WWE didn't approve of an angle where Starr stomped on their UK Championship without clearing it with them first. That was bold to say the least! I hope he'll be able to get regular work elsewhere given how many places WWE has ties to now.
WWE Meet and Greets have instituted a no touching policy due to the coronavirus. That's hardly surprising.
WWE Network's Ruthless Aggression series will return in the fall with episodes covering:
- Elimination Chamber
- Tough Enough
- The Diva Search
- Money In The Bank
- The Undertaker
- OVW
-- All of that sounds interesting!
Ricochet promoted Raw.
Jordan Devlin discussed a WrestleMania dream match. I think he can make a spot for himself on that card, but I don't think it would be against someone from Raw.
Tegan Nox was profiled in Wales.
Lana will be in a Bruce Willis sci-fi movie.
ROH's Pure Championship tournament has added Tony Deppen.
ROH's Women's Championship tournament has added Lindsay Snow.
Bob Backlund appeared at Bret Hart's The Big Event signing.
NXT has announced live events for:
- Washington, DC on May 1
- Pennsylvania on May 2
- New York on May 3
Britt Baker and Matt Cross will be in a movie called "Powerbomb" releasing April 14.
Chris Benoit will be on an episode of Reelz channel's "Autopsy" this Sunday.
Chris Jericho and Batista ended up on the same flight. That's pretty cool.
Jeff Hardy and Paige are set for Smackdown, with Paige confronting Bayley on the show. I'm very interested how they fit into things.
The Undertaker and AJ Styles will have a contract signing on Raw.
After Raw, Seth Rollins cut a promo only to take a Claymore from Drew McIntyre.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. It is a very deliberate shot at Vince McMahon and providing an alternative to what he does. As for chairshots to the head, there's no indication we'll see another one after the disaster that was the one Cody took.
2. In theory the Internet could be a gamechanger like PPV and cable were for those eras, but we haven't seen that come to pass yet. If AEW can start pulling Raw and Smackdown level viewership, maybe things will change.
3. Refereeing takes a backseat to spectacle. It does look bad when the announcers are trying to call a match like, well, a match and much of that pretense goes out the window with the wrestlers. If anything, I think they'd change the announcing direction, but I wouldn't expect Jim Ross to ignore blatantly poor officiating.
4. He's only 33, so I don't see why not. We'll see what things look like for him when he's ready to return.
5. Vince pretty much books what he wants to book as long as people buy tickets and react! It probably was for the best that they didn't have Roman win a six-way match given previous backlashes against him.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Impact's parent company has struck a deal with iHeartMedia to market its content on that service. Impact was not specifically mentioned as part of the deal, but that would make sense. I hope that means more people paying attention to Impact.
WrestleMania DVDs for 15, 17, 18, and 19 will be re-released on March 23 as promotion for WrestleMania 36. Interesting move.
WrestleMania 36 will be released on DVD on May 12 in the U.S. and June 8 in the UK.
The Undertaker was set to appear on Raw this week. I don't mind him being saved for next week since Edge was on TV this week.
Dynamite's June 6 episode will be in Louisiana, at the site of Halloween Havoc 1993, November to Remember 1998, and Supercard of Honor XII among other shows.
Dynamite's June 13 episode will be in New Mexico. As best as I can tell, the venue has never held a wrestling show before.
David Starr has left wXw due to the promotion's WWE affiliation. WWE didn't approve of an angle where Starr stomped on their UK Championship without clearing it with them first. That was bold to say the least! I hope he'll be able to get regular work elsewhere given how many places WWE has ties to now.
WWE Meet and Greets have instituted a no touching policy due to the coronavirus. That's hardly surprising.
WWE Network's Ruthless Aggression series will return in the fall with episodes covering:
- Elimination Chamber
- Tough Enough
- The Diva Search
- Money In The Bank
- The Undertaker
- OVW
-- All of that sounds interesting!
Ricochet promoted Raw.
Jordan Devlin discussed a WrestleMania dream match. I think he can make a spot for himself on that card, but I don't think it would be against someone from Raw.
Tegan Nox was profiled in Wales.
Lana will be in a Bruce Willis sci-fi movie.
ROH's Pure Championship tournament has added Tony Deppen.
ROH's Women's Championship tournament has added Lindsay Snow.
Bob Backlund appeared at Bret Hart's The Big Event signing.
NXT has announced live events for:
- Washington, DC on May 1
- Pennsylvania on May 2
- New York on May 3
Britt Baker and Matt Cross will be in a movie called "Powerbomb" releasing April 14.
Chris Benoit will be on an episode of Reelz channel's "Autopsy" this Sunday.
Chris Jericho and Batista ended up on the same flight. That's pretty cool.
Jeff Hardy and Paige are set for Smackdown, with Paige confronting Bayley on the show. I'm very interested how they fit into things.
The Undertaker and AJ Styles will have a contract signing on Raw.
After Raw, Seth Rollins cut a promo only to take a Claymore from Drew McIntyre.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. It is a very deliberate shot at Vince McMahon and providing an alternative to what he does. As for chairshots to the head, there's no indication we'll see another one after the disaster that was the one Cody took.
2. In theory the Internet could be a gamechanger like PPV and cable were for those eras, but we haven't seen that come to pass yet. If AEW can start pulling Raw and Smackdown level viewership, maybe things will change.
3. Refereeing takes a backseat to spectacle. It does look bad when the announcers are trying to call a match like, well, a match and much of that pretense goes out the window with the wrestlers. If anything, I think they'd change the announcing direction, but I wouldn't expect Jim Ross to ignore blatantly poor officiating.
4. He's only 33, so I don't see why not. We'll see what things look like for him when he's ready to return.
5. Vince pretty much books what he wants to book as long as people buy tickets and react! It probably was for the best that they didn't have Roman win a six-way match given previous backlashes against him.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Monday, March 9, 2020
HHH honored, Interviews with Foley/The Snake, more ROH tournament competitors, ROH exec at Elimination Chamber, Blood & Guts match participants, AAA press conference coming, Paige working family promotion, Elimination Chamber merchandise note, and Questions on Elimination Chamber's importance, The Fiend's goals, HoF setup, AEW's novelty, and an alternate Taker match
Triple H was presented with the Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award this weekend. Very cool.
Mick Foley spoke to TMZ about his favorite WWE gimmick. Interesting answer!
ROH's Pure Championship tournament has added Josh Woods. Fitting.
ROH's Women's Championship tournament has added Heather Monroe.
ROH's Cary Silkin visited at Elimination Chamber, reuniting with a lot of familiar faces.
The Blood & Guts match will feature Chris Jericho, Jake Hager, Sammy Guevara, and the Proud 'n' Powerful vs. Kenny Omega, the Young Bucks, Cody, and Hangman Page.
AAA will have a Triplemania press conference Wednesday.
Paige is set for her parents' UK promotion from July 3 through July 5.
Jake Roberts spoke to Bill Apter after Dynamite.
Elimination Chamber had NBA and NHL team inspired local merchandise. That's a good move.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1.a. TLC actually didn't have either the WWE or Universal Title on the line, though the Universal Champion was in action that night. The last PPV with neither the WWE Champion nor Universal Champion in action was Elimination Chamber 2018.
1.b. Some of it does feel like filler. Super Showdown was more important.
1.c. Getting revenge on John Cena from years back is more important than getting another title match. He might not have another opportunity to face Cena. That doesn't mean he doesn't care about the title.
2. We're still far enough out that that hasn't been determined. It's notable NJPW names are set for the Pure Championship tournament.
3. Hopefully they do the stage again after what happened last year.
4. There's still some level of novelty with them not running certain markets yet, which is why Blood & Guts should draw such a big house. I think once Matt Hardy, Brodie Lee, and The Revival (?) end up there it stands a chance of being seen as at its full (current) potential rather than still being the new player in town.
5. Not really, honestly. Maybe if you switch Bryan with Aleister Black, given the current angle between Black and AJ. And frankly I think AJ can get a passable match out of Taker by himself.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Mick Foley spoke to TMZ about his favorite WWE gimmick. Interesting answer!
ROH's Pure Championship tournament has added Josh Woods. Fitting.
ROH's Women's Championship tournament has added Heather Monroe.
ROH's Cary Silkin visited at Elimination Chamber, reuniting with a lot of familiar faces.
The Blood & Guts match will feature Chris Jericho, Jake Hager, Sammy Guevara, and the Proud 'n' Powerful vs. Kenny Omega, the Young Bucks, Cody, and Hangman Page.
AAA will have a Triplemania press conference Wednesday.
Paige is set for her parents' UK promotion from July 3 through July 5.
Jake Roberts spoke to Bill Apter after Dynamite.
Elimination Chamber had NBA and NHL team inspired local merchandise. That's a good move.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1.a. TLC actually didn't have either the WWE or Universal Title on the line, though the Universal Champion was in action that night. The last PPV with neither the WWE Champion nor Universal Champion in action was Elimination Chamber 2018.
1.b. Some of it does feel like filler. Super Showdown was more important.
1.c. Getting revenge on John Cena from years back is more important than getting another title match. He might not have another opportunity to face Cena. That doesn't mean he doesn't care about the title.
2. We're still far enough out that that hasn't been determined. It's notable NJPW names are set for the Pure Championship tournament.
3. Hopefully they do the stage again after what happened last year.
4. There's still some level of novelty with them not running certain markets yet, which is why Blood & Guts should draw such a big house. I think once Matt Hardy, Brodie Lee, and The Revival (?) end up there it stands a chance of being seen as at its full (current) potential rather than still being the new player in town.
5. Not really, honestly. Maybe if you switch Bryan with Aleister Black, given the current angle between Black and AJ. And frankly I think AJ can get a passable match out of Taker by himself.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Sunday, March 8, 2020
Legend hospitalized, Matt Hardy updates, next WWE HoFer reveal date, Network content update, more ROH tournament competitors, SD audience, WWE stockholder meeting set, WWE digital milestone, Omega update, new Dynamite match, assorted wrestling press, Interviews with Shayna/Liv/Matt Hardy, WWE sued over Saudi relationship, Colt set for Mania weekend, Impact name misses tapings, Impact producer, NXT live event note, and Questions on Punk returning to WWE, Warrior being Warrior, and WWE running during the coronavirus outbreak
Scott Steiner collapsed at Friday's Impact Wrestling taping. He was taken to the hospital and had a heart procedure. He's doing better now. That's scary. I'm glad he got help in a timely manner.
AEW teased Matt Hardy leading The Dark Order. They've done a good job with these teases.
WWE's next Hall of Famer will be revealed on "After The Bell" this week.
WWE Day Of focusing on Super Showdown will air March 13. That should be interesting.
ROH's Women's Championship tournament has added Miranda Alize, who has appeared for both AEW and Impact.
ROH's Pure Championship tournament has added NJPW's Ren Narita.
Smackdown drew 2.45 million viewers this week. Smart of them to take advantage of the boost last week to setup the big Mania matches.
WWE's annual stockholders meeting will be held April 16.
WWE Network will add "Total Bellas'" fourth season on March 15.
WWE's YouTube channel has passed 40 billion views. That's pretty amazing.
Kenny Omega will not compete on Dynamite this week due to his broken finger.
Dynamite has added Chris Jericho and Sammy Guevara vs. Hangman Page and a mystery partner. That's intriguing!
Matt Hardy is set for Future Stars of Wrestling's March 15 event.
Elimination Chamber's Watch Along will feature Drew Gulak, Mandy Rose, and Tyson Kidd.
Ricochet did a Walmart signing before Elimination Chamber.
AJ Styles will be on WWE Backstage next.
Shayna Baszler spoke before Elimination Chamber. I like her mission statements there.
Liv Morgan spoke before Elimination Chamber.
WWE is being sued by a group of stockholders for allegedly misleading the public regarding the company's relationship with the Saudi Arabian government. The lawsuit makes some... interesting assertions to say the least. Hopefully if it's as absurd as it appears on the surface, it's dismissed quickly and those bringing about such claims are punished accordingly.
Matt Hardy spoke about his next steps, revealing discussions with AEW, Impact, and NWA.
Colt Cabana has been added to Joey Janela's Spring Break.
Rob Van Dam missed the most recent Impact tapings due to a broken rib. That sucks, as he's been one of the best parts of that promotion.
Raven worked as a producer for Impact's TV tapings this weekend.
Tyler Breeze worked his first live event since December 15 Saturday night, defeating Dorian Mak.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. Punk's only returning if WWE makes him a huge offer and basically lets him dictate the terms. I don't think WWE's interested in making those concessions at this time.
2. Vintage Warrior!
3. I believe she's still an ambassador as well.
4. I expect WWE will make every effort to run every show on their calendar as long as they are able to do so.
5. I'm not remotely qualified to answer his one.
More wrestling tomorrow.
AEW teased Matt Hardy leading The Dark Order. They've done a good job with these teases.
WWE's next Hall of Famer will be revealed on "After The Bell" this week.
WWE Day Of focusing on Super Showdown will air March 13. That should be interesting.
ROH's Women's Championship tournament has added Miranda Alize, who has appeared for both AEW and Impact.
ROH's Pure Championship tournament has added NJPW's Ren Narita.
Smackdown drew 2.45 million viewers this week. Smart of them to take advantage of the boost last week to setup the big Mania matches.
WWE's annual stockholders meeting will be held April 16.
WWE Network will add "Total Bellas'" fourth season on March 15.
WWE's YouTube channel has passed 40 billion views. That's pretty amazing.
Kenny Omega will not compete on Dynamite this week due to his broken finger.
Dynamite has added Chris Jericho and Sammy Guevara vs. Hangman Page and a mystery partner. That's intriguing!
Matt Hardy is set for Future Stars of Wrestling's March 15 event.
Elimination Chamber's Watch Along will feature Drew Gulak, Mandy Rose, and Tyson Kidd.
Ricochet did a Walmart signing before Elimination Chamber.
AJ Styles will be on WWE Backstage next.
Shayna Baszler spoke before Elimination Chamber. I like her mission statements there.
Liv Morgan spoke before Elimination Chamber.
WWE is being sued by a group of stockholders for allegedly misleading the public regarding the company's relationship with the Saudi Arabian government. The lawsuit makes some... interesting assertions to say the least. Hopefully if it's as absurd as it appears on the surface, it's dismissed quickly and those bringing about such claims are punished accordingly.
Matt Hardy spoke about his next steps, revealing discussions with AEW, Impact, and NWA.
Colt Cabana has been added to Joey Janela's Spring Break.
Rob Van Dam missed the most recent Impact tapings due to a broken rib. That sucks, as he's been one of the best parts of that promotion.
Raven worked as a producer for Impact's TV tapings this weekend.
Tyler Breeze worked his first live event since December 15 Saturday night, defeating Dorian Mak.
For my take on yesterday's PWInsider.com questions:
1. Punk's only returning if WWE makes him a huge offer and basically lets him dictate the terms. I don't think WWE's interested in making those concessions at this time.
2. Vintage Warrior!
3. I believe she's still an ambassador as well.
4. I expect WWE will make every effort to run every show on their calendar as long as they are able to do so.
5. I'm not remotely qualified to answer his one.
More wrestling tomorrow.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)