Week in Wrestling #23
Wrestling News From the weeks of
December 25 - January 11th
December 25 - January 11th
Due to the holidays, we have been away for a few weeks, but we are back with all the news from the past two weeks!!!!
John Cena will miss Wrestlemania
John Cena confirmed that he will be undergoing shoulder surgery on 1/7.
The injury is believed to be either a torn labrum or a torn rotator cuff. No other details are available past that the normal recuperation period from that surgery is in excess of six months, so whatever plans there were regarding Cena, the Royal Rumble, and WrestleMania, are now out the window.
When Seth Rollins went down with knee surgery, the WrestleMania plan was for Roman Reigns defending the WWE title against Cena. We do know that plan had changed and a new card had been made with different matches for both men, although because the company is so sensitive, nobody would confirm anything past that.
The only other details we have is that Cena wanted the surgery done as soon as possible. He had been having nagging shoudler problems and it had gotten worse while training. Cena has been known to make remarkable and what are almost thought to be physically impossible comebacks from surgeries in the past.
John Cena confirmed that he will be undergoing shoulder surgery on 1/7.
The injury is believed to be either a torn labrum or a torn rotator cuff. No other details are available past that the normal recuperation period from that surgery is in excess of six months, so whatever plans there were regarding Cena, the Royal Rumble, and WrestleMania, are now out the window.
When Seth Rollins went down with knee surgery, the WrestleMania plan was for Roman Reigns defending the WWE title against Cena. We do know that plan had changed and a new card had been made with different matches for both men, although because the company is so sensitive, nobody would confirm anything past that.
The only other details we have is that Cena wanted the surgery done as soon as possible. He had been having nagging shoudler problems and it had gotten worse while training. Cena has been known to make remarkable and what are almost thought to be physically impossible comebacks from surgeries in the past.
Training Causing all these Injuries?
The injury to John Cena comes shortly after frequent training partner Cesaro had recent surgery for a torn rotator cuff. It continues the large number of shoulder injuries and surgeries in WWE over the past year.
The change in training methods, focusing on heavy power lifts and heavy Olympic lifting by WWE performers has resulted in a huge increase in shoulder injuries, with Randy Orton and Dustin Runnels the key ones not participating in those kinds of workouts, like Cena, Cesaro, Hideo Itami, Mojo Rawley, Clayton Jack and Sami Zayn among others.
There is a strong belief in heavy training using the complete body today as opposed to the lighter isolation movements that most older wrestlers had done historically, except the ones who still competed in power lifts. But the training methods that are supposed to guard against injury seem to be increasing the injury rate significantly, particularly shoulder injuries. It is likely a combination of that and the bumping.
The injury to John Cena comes shortly after frequent training partner Cesaro had recent surgery for a torn rotator cuff. It continues the large number of shoulder injuries and surgeries in WWE over the past year.
The change in training methods, focusing on heavy power lifts and heavy Olympic lifting by WWE performers has resulted in a huge increase in shoulder injuries, with Randy Orton and Dustin Runnels the key ones not participating in those kinds of workouts, like Cena, Cesaro, Hideo Itami, Mojo Rawley, Clayton Jack and Sami Zayn among others.
There is a strong belief in heavy training using the complete body today as opposed to the lighter isolation movements that most older wrestlers had done historically, except the ones who still competed in power lifts. But the training methods that are supposed to guard against injury seem to be increasing the injury rate significantly, particularly shoulder injuries. It is likely a combination of that and the bumping.
NJPW Stars leaving for WWE
As New Japan Pro Wrestling was about to start its biggest show of the year, four major stars--IC champion Shinsuke Nakamura, 36, top foreigner A.J. Styles, and tag team champions Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows--all gave notice.
All four are expected to head to WWE. WWE was hoping and planning to debut Styles as one of the surprise entrants in the Royal Rumble on 1/24 in Orlando, figuring he’d get a huge reaction from that audience. That could change, given the word is out. WWE was hoping it could pull off a surprise but obviously that’s not happening.
With Nakamura and Styles, WWE will pick up two of the best wrestlers in the world today, some would argue the two best. Both are geared for the main roster, not NXT, although either or both spending time in NXT wouldn’t be a surprise. The doctrine has been to send foreign stars, no matter how talented, to NXT to have them study English and the way WWE presents wrestling as well as the ring style.
As New Japan Pro Wrestling was about to start its biggest show of the year, four major stars--IC champion Shinsuke Nakamura, 36, top foreigner A.J. Styles, and tag team champions Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows--all gave notice.
All four are expected to head to WWE. WWE was hoping and planning to debut Styles as one of the surprise entrants in the Royal Rumble on 1/24 in Orlando, figuring he’d get a huge reaction from that audience. That could change, given the word is out. WWE was hoping it could pull off a surprise but obviously that’s not happening.
With Nakamura and Styles, WWE will pick up two of the best wrestlers in the world today, some would argue the two best. Both are geared for the main roster, not NXT, although either or both spending time in NXT wouldn’t be a surprise. The doctrine has been to send foreign stars, no matter how talented, to NXT to have them study English and the way WWE presents wrestling as well as the ring style.
Impact on New Japan
Booker Gedo was said to be blindsided by the move and given he’s notorious for long-term planning, they likely have to get ready to make a lot of changes. With the big program that has carried the company over four years, Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada, clearly past its drawing power peak (even if their last match was a classic), Okada vs. Nakamura seemed like the long-term future hot program.
When you look at the 2017 Tokyo Dome, taking Styles and Nakamura out of the picture, there’s no main event. Okada vs. Tanahashi may be the best draw, but it would struggle to do the business it did this year. Okada against Tetsuya Naito, Togi Makabe or Kenny Omega is not a Dome main event. They need to strap the rocket on Kota Ibushi when he returns, but coming off surgery for a herniated disc in his neck, it’s hard to know if he can perform at the same level.
Booker Gedo was said to be blindsided by the move and given he’s notorious for long-term planning, they likely have to get ready to make a lot of changes. With the big program that has carried the company over four years, Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada, clearly past its drawing power peak (even if their last match was a classic), Okada vs. Nakamura seemed like the long-term future hot program.
When you look at the 2017 Tokyo Dome, taking Styles and Nakamura out of the picture, there’s no main event. Okada vs. Tanahashi may be the best draw, but it would struggle to do the business it did this year. Okada against Tetsuya Naito, Togi Makabe or Kenny Omega is not a Dome main event. They need to strap the rocket on Kota Ibushi when he returns, but coming off surgery for a herniated disc in his neck, it’s hard to know if he can perform at the same level.
Timetable for Leaving NJPW
It should be noted that as of right now, all four are still working for New Japan, although unless things change and the WWE deal falls through, Styles finished up with an angle where the rest of the Bullet Club turned on him on 1/5 at Korakuen Hall. Omega was groomed to take Styles’ position as the top foreign star of the promotion and Bullet Club.
Anderson, whose contract with New Japan expires on 1/31, along with Gallows, lost the tag team titles to Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma, which had been planned even if they were staying. But they will are expected to be getting a rematch in February at one of the New Beginnings shows.
Nakamura defeated Styles to retain the IC title in a classic match that lived up to, and even exceeded its high expectations.
Styles & Omega beat Nakamura & Yoshi-Hashi in a tag team match when Omega pinned Nakamura with his one-winged angel finisher, which shocked the live crowd and immediately established Omega as the next contender for the IC title. Omega then attacked Styles and gave him the one-winged angel. The Young Bucks then both superkicked Styles and Omega stated that Styles was fired from the Bullet Club. Omega then said he was tired of pretending to be a junior heavyweight, and is going after Nakamura’s title.
Styles has no more dates left with New Japan or ROH at this point in time. According to those very close to the situation, while no comments are allowed to be made regarding going to WWE, past the point it was noted that no actual contract has been signed at this moment. Styles did not have a New Japan contract, but had committed to shows through this week.
Styles had said all along he was going to go wherever the best offer was, and it was always just a question as to whether WWE would offer a number that would make it worth it for him to give up his New Japan and indies deals, which made him, along with possibly Rey Mysterio Jr., as one of the two highest paid U.S. wrestlers not with WWE.
Another factor in all this is his back injury. Styles apparently said that doing DDP Yoga has helped his herniated discs out. Still, given his age and the nature of the injury changes the game for him. As an independent contractor, the upside is you make your own schedule, but you have to hustle like crazy. But if you can’t work, you don’t get paid. A WWE schedule is far more difficult, but if you’re under contract, you can afford to rest while injured and at least have a regular paycheck coming in. Of course, WWE does very thorough exams of talent before actually signing them and guys expected to be signed have gotten flagged due to injured body parts. But the injury could change his perspective if WWE were to offer a multi-year contract.
Anderson had been negotiating with TNA. The hold up had been that he was looking to continue to work for New Japan, a tricky political move since New Japan works with ROH in North America and ROH and TNA are considered rivals.
But WWE must have made a serious offer to him at the last minute, likely aware that he would be just about ready to ink a new one-year deal. The belief is WWE is interested in marketing “Balor Club” T-shirts after the worldwide success of the “Bullet Club” T-shirts (New Japan had a worldwide trademark for Bullet Club). WWE is doing teases already now that the word is out, as Balor had a photo of himself wearing a Bullet Club shirt posted with the idea he was waiting for his buddies to come saying, “They should have been here by now.”
Between medical and other testing, it can be several months between when a performer is given word they are looking to ink him to a deal, before the actual contract is offered, and usually the talent continues with the promotion they are working for until a date WWE gives them to report, such as the several month period between Kevin Steen, as an example, agreeing to come to WWE, and still finishing out his programs with ROH, and there was even time after that before all the medical reports were back and he was actually offered and signed his contract. But it was months earlier when he was given the original offer and agreed to come.
In the case of Styles, because they were looking at debuting him rather soon as a surprise (an idea that is out the window now because the story got out), like with Del Rio, the situation can be different.
It should be noted that as of right now, all four are still working for New Japan, although unless things change and the WWE deal falls through, Styles finished up with an angle where the rest of the Bullet Club turned on him on 1/5 at Korakuen Hall. Omega was groomed to take Styles’ position as the top foreign star of the promotion and Bullet Club.
Anderson, whose contract with New Japan expires on 1/31, along with Gallows, lost the tag team titles to Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma, which had been planned even if they were staying. But they will are expected to be getting a rematch in February at one of the New Beginnings shows.
Nakamura defeated Styles to retain the IC title in a classic match that lived up to, and even exceeded its high expectations.
Styles & Omega beat Nakamura & Yoshi-Hashi in a tag team match when Omega pinned Nakamura with his one-winged angel finisher, which shocked the live crowd and immediately established Omega as the next contender for the IC title. Omega then attacked Styles and gave him the one-winged angel. The Young Bucks then both superkicked Styles and Omega stated that Styles was fired from the Bullet Club. Omega then said he was tired of pretending to be a junior heavyweight, and is going after Nakamura’s title.
Styles has no more dates left with New Japan or ROH at this point in time. According to those very close to the situation, while no comments are allowed to be made regarding going to WWE, past the point it was noted that no actual contract has been signed at this moment. Styles did not have a New Japan contract, but had committed to shows through this week.
Styles had said all along he was going to go wherever the best offer was, and it was always just a question as to whether WWE would offer a number that would make it worth it for him to give up his New Japan and indies deals, which made him, along with possibly Rey Mysterio Jr., as one of the two highest paid U.S. wrestlers not with WWE.
Another factor in all this is his back injury. Styles apparently said that doing DDP Yoga has helped his herniated discs out. Still, given his age and the nature of the injury changes the game for him. As an independent contractor, the upside is you make your own schedule, but you have to hustle like crazy. But if you can’t work, you don’t get paid. A WWE schedule is far more difficult, but if you’re under contract, you can afford to rest while injured and at least have a regular paycheck coming in. Of course, WWE does very thorough exams of talent before actually signing them and guys expected to be signed have gotten flagged due to injured body parts. But the injury could change his perspective if WWE were to offer a multi-year contract.
Anderson had been negotiating with TNA. The hold up had been that he was looking to continue to work for New Japan, a tricky political move since New Japan works with ROH in North America and ROH and TNA are considered rivals.
But WWE must have made a serious offer to him at the last minute, likely aware that he would be just about ready to ink a new one-year deal. The belief is WWE is interested in marketing “Balor Club” T-shirts after the worldwide success of the “Bullet Club” T-shirts (New Japan had a worldwide trademark for Bullet Club). WWE is doing teases already now that the word is out, as Balor had a photo of himself wearing a Bullet Club shirt posted with the idea he was waiting for his buddies to come saying, “They should have been here by now.”
Between medical and other testing, it can be several months between when a performer is given word they are looking to ink him to a deal, before the actual contract is offered, and usually the talent continues with the promotion they are working for until a date WWE gives them to report, such as the several month period between Kevin Steen, as an example, agreeing to come to WWE, and still finishing out his programs with ROH, and there was even time after that before all the medical reports were back and he was actually offered and signed his contract. But it was months earlier when he was given the original offer and agreed to come.
In the case of Styles, because they were looking at debuting him rather soon as a surprise (an idea that is out the window now because the story got out), like with Del Rio, the situation can be different.
Nakamura is a huge blow
Nakamura was a surprise because no Japanese wrestler at his level has ever left the home company to sign with a U.S. promotion. Even when WCW was paying out huge money, Keiji Muto and Masahiro Chono stuck with New Japan (although they were making huge money in Japan at the time). WWE had been after Nakamura for months.
Nakamura was also working for a major corporation, Bushiroad, the parent company of New Japan, with an owner, Takaaki Kidani, who had publicly said their competition was WWE & UFC and their goal was to become a worldwide power. Kidani had also in the past talked about how it was inevitable that they may have to pay up to $1 million per year for their top three guys to keep them from inevitably going to WWE. However, Nakamura wasn’t making anywhere close to that.
WWE would have had to have made a significant financial commitment to get him. It’s not just offering more money than he is currently earning, but Nakamura would have tremendous long-term job security provided New Japan stays healthy as a company.
Nakamura was a surprise because no Japanese wrestler at his level has ever left the home company to sign with a U.S. promotion. Even when WCW was paying out huge money, Keiji Muto and Masahiro Chono stuck with New Japan (although they were making huge money in Japan at the time). WWE had been after Nakamura for months.
Nakamura was also working for a major corporation, Bushiroad, the parent company of New Japan, with an owner, Takaaki Kidani, who had publicly said their competition was WWE & UFC and their goal was to become a worldwide power. Kidani had also in the past talked about how it was inevitable that they may have to pay up to $1 million per year for their top three guys to keep them from inevitably going to WWE. However, Nakamura wasn’t making anywhere close to that.
WWE would have had to have made a significant financial commitment to get him. It’s not just offering more money than he is currently earning, but Nakamura would have tremendous long-term job security provided New Japan stays healthy as a company.
New Japan Lessons to be Learned
But there has been the writing on the wall. New Japan had a great comeback, tripling business over a few year period. But they peaked with last year’s Tokyo Dome and Dominion shows, and look to be starting a period where they’ll be paying for the lack of developing new stars. WWE is the opposite, as they’ve been aggressive in building talent for their future, even if most of it was talent really created elsewhere.
New Japan has attempted to copy the WWE business in many ways, such as making the Tokyo Dome week like WrestleMania, giving up on PPV and iPPV in favor of a streaming service and just all kinds of business and promotional changes.
The first lesson is that they need to sign their top guys to longer than one-year deals. The top WWE talent that they rely on is signed up for eight to ten years, and renegotiated with and given new deals long before the current ones expire. Even the minor guys and developmental guys are usually signed up for three years minimum. This prevents a rich billionaire wanting to start out from being able to execute a raid. New Japan’s one-year deals that expire in January left them as sitting ducks for this.
The second is, instead of a system where they just create their own stars from scratch, they should be open to poaching good young talent from other promotions. There is a ton of great young talent in Japan, or even great talent in smaller promotions that could work out great in New Japan. It’s not the Japanese way of doing things. But WWE, whether in 1984, 1994 or 2014, has always been built more on taking talent that worked in other promotions and was already good.
But there has been the writing on the wall. New Japan had a great comeback, tripling business over a few year period. But they peaked with last year’s Tokyo Dome and Dominion shows, and look to be starting a period where they’ll be paying for the lack of developing new stars. WWE is the opposite, as they’ve been aggressive in building talent for their future, even if most of it was talent really created elsewhere.
New Japan has attempted to copy the WWE business in many ways, such as making the Tokyo Dome week like WrestleMania, giving up on PPV and iPPV in favor of a streaming service and just all kinds of business and promotional changes.
The first lesson is that they need to sign their top guys to longer than one-year deals. The top WWE talent that they rely on is signed up for eight to ten years, and renegotiated with and given new deals long before the current ones expire. Even the minor guys and developmental guys are usually signed up for three years minimum. This prevents a rich billionaire wanting to start out from being able to execute a raid. New Japan’s one-year deals that expire in January left them as sitting ducks for this.
The second is, instead of a system where they just create their own stars from scratch, they should be open to poaching good young talent from other promotions. There is a ton of great young talent in Japan, or even great talent in smaller promotions that could work out great in New Japan. It’s not the Japanese way of doing things. But WWE, whether in 1984, 1994 or 2014, has always been built more on taking talent that worked in other promotions and was already good.
Tokyo Dome Show
Okada defeated Tanahashi in 36:01 in a match of the year candidate that may hold up as the best all year. Finally, on the biggest stage, it was Tanahashi, clearly defeated after three rainmaker clotheslines, being helped out while Okada had the center stage win that Tanahashi had six of the last seven years.
Over the past four years, the Tanahashi vs. Okada program became the standard of what fans of a generation in Japan will look back at as the legendary rival of the era. Great ending to the feud.
While I didn’t think this year’s Dome show could match last year’s Wrestle Kingdom 9, it was still a fantastic show, particularly the last three matches. I think Nakamura vs. Ibushi last year in some ways was better than Tanahashi vs. Okada, but when it came to drama and significance, Tanahashi vs. Okada this year felt bigger than any matches last year. Athletically, last year’s Tanahashi vs. Okada match was better, but it was going to be because of all the mileage on Tanahashi.
A.J. Styles vs. Nakamura was a very legitimate match of the year contender, and very different. The other big one, Tomohiro Ishii vs. Katsuyori Shibata, was exactly what you’d expect. It was not their best match against each other, but it was still a fantastic match.
Okada defeated Tanahashi in 36:01 in a match of the year candidate that may hold up as the best all year. Finally, on the biggest stage, it was Tanahashi, clearly defeated after three rainmaker clotheslines, being helped out while Okada had the center stage win that Tanahashi had six of the last seven years.
Over the past four years, the Tanahashi vs. Okada program became the standard of what fans of a generation in Japan will look back at as the legendary rival of the era. Great ending to the feud.
While I didn’t think this year’s Dome show could match last year’s Wrestle Kingdom 9, it was still a fantastic show, particularly the last three matches. I think Nakamura vs. Ibushi last year in some ways was better than Tanahashi vs. Okada, but when it came to drama and significance, Tanahashi vs. Okada this year felt bigger than any matches last year. Athletically, last year’s Tanahashi vs. Okada match was better, but it was going to be because of all the mileage on Tanahashi.
A.J. Styles vs. Nakamura was a very legitimate match of the year contender, and very different. The other big one, Tomohiro Ishii vs. Katsuyori Shibata, was exactly what you’d expect. It was not their best match against each other, but it was still a fantastic match.
New Japan TV Issues
Hiroshi Tanahashi on his podcast was talking about how New Japan and the Japanese industry’s biggest problem, which is obvious from an outsider perspective, which is the television situation. While cable and satellite exist in Japan, it’s nowhere close to as widespread as in most other countries, cable in particular. So while there are small stations that wrestling is on, and the hardcore fan who has those stations is served, with the exception of New Japan on TV-Asahi for 30 minutes at 2:30 a.m., it’s essentially like Lucha Underground on El Rey.
There is no other promotion in Japan that’s even available on TV in as many homes as New Japan is in the U.S. on AXS. A lot of companies have small loyal audiences but that’s why, as good as they may be, the popularity is tiny compared to the 80s and 90s, let alone before that when everyone knew all the wrestling stars. He noted that it doesn’t matter how good you are, how good your matches are, how much work you do on social media, that you are not a star unless you are on television or performing before big crowds, and right now the key in Japan because wrestling itself has no exposure, is getting on national shows as a star and getting mainstream endorsements.
He pointed out that to the mainstream in Japan, the biggest star right now is Togi Makabe (he is pretty famous because he’s on talk shows as the athlete who loves junk food) and noted that in public, everyone knows him, far more than anyone else in the company. He also noted that the 30 minutes of TV in a bad time slot is a hindrance and with 60 minutes they’d be able to get more exposure, particularly of the mid-card guys and junior heavyweights.
Hiroshi Tanahashi on his podcast was talking about how New Japan and the Japanese industry’s biggest problem, which is obvious from an outsider perspective, which is the television situation. While cable and satellite exist in Japan, it’s nowhere close to as widespread as in most other countries, cable in particular. So while there are small stations that wrestling is on, and the hardcore fan who has those stations is served, with the exception of New Japan on TV-Asahi for 30 minutes at 2:30 a.m., it’s essentially like Lucha Underground on El Rey.
There is no other promotion in Japan that’s even available on TV in as many homes as New Japan is in the U.S. on AXS. A lot of companies have small loyal audiences but that’s why, as good as they may be, the popularity is tiny compared to the 80s and 90s, let alone before that when everyone knew all the wrestling stars. He noted that it doesn’t matter how good you are, how good your matches are, how much work you do on social media, that you are not a star unless you are on television or performing before big crowds, and right now the key in Japan because wrestling itself has no exposure, is getting on national shows as a star and getting mainstream endorsements.
He pointed out that to the mainstream in Japan, the biggest star right now is Togi Makabe (he is pretty famous because he’s on talk shows as the athlete who loves junk food) and noted that in public, everyone knows him, far more than anyone else in the company. He also noted that the 30 minutes of TV in a bad time slot is a hindrance and with 60 minutes they’d be able to get more exposure, particularly of the mid-card guys and junior heavyweights.
2015 BUSINESS YEAR IN REVIEW
Largest Event Attendance -
With so few companies able to draw 10,000 on a regular basis, this category is dominated by the WWE performers who have gotten the most big market main events during the year. Rollins at No. 1 breaks the streak of John Cena who had been No. 1 since 2009.
Cena’s 10th year in the top ten overall moves him ahead of Gene Kiniski, The Sheik, Ray Stevens and HHH, who were all top ten in nine different years.
It should be noted that it’s a lot easier being top ten now because there are so many fewer shows that do 10,000, and the way the business is now, the top person will always be from WWE. Unlike a period when there were tons of flourishing companies all over the world, there really is WWE & UFC, and nothing else in their leagues, and UFC top fighters are generally only fighting two or three times a year. It means the top positions are going to always be the guys WWE pushes the most, and long-term longevity will be based specifically on tenure as a main eventer in WWE going forward.
In the past, with multiple promotions drawing big numbers all over the world, being top ten was a lot more difficult. In addition, the WWE shows aren’t drawn by big matches as much as if a PPV is coming, it usually does well, and if Raw is coming it also usually does well, while for other shows, it’s harder. The depth of stars who actually draw is tiny compared to the past, and the actual drawing power of those stars as difference makers is a ton in UFC, but really in pro wrestling it’s more the idea of a big show and if the company is a hot ticket as much as who is on top.
So probably until a decade or so ago, this stat was super significant. Now it just tells us more who had the most big show main events in WWE during the year.
Estimated North American PPV Buys -
$2 Million Dollar Gates -
Largest Event Attendance -
- 67,000 - 3/29 WWE WrestleMania 31 Santa Clara Levi’s Stadium (Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns)
- 18 - Seth Rollins
- 12 - John Cena, Roman Reigns
With so few companies able to draw 10,000 on a regular basis, this category is dominated by the WWE performers who have gotten the most big market main events during the year. Rollins at No. 1 breaks the streak of John Cena who had been No. 1 since 2009.
Cena’s 10th year in the top ten overall moves him ahead of Gene Kiniski, The Sheik, Ray Stevens and HHH, who were all top ten in nine different years.
It should be noted that it’s a lot easier being top ten now because there are so many fewer shows that do 10,000, and the way the business is now, the top person will always be from WWE. Unlike a period when there were tons of flourishing companies all over the world, there really is WWE & UFC, and nothing else in their leagues, and UFC top fighters are generally only fighting two or three times a year. It means the top positions are going to always be the guys WWE pushes the most, and long-term longevity will be based specifically on tenure as a main eventer in WWE going forward.
In the past, with multiple promotions drawing big numbers all over the world, being top ten was a lot more difficult. In addition, the WWE shows aren’t drawn by big matches as much as if a PPV is coming, it usually does well, and if Raw is coming it also usually does well, while for other shows, it’s harder. The depth of stars who actually draw is tiny compared to the past, and the actual drawing power of those stars as difference makers is a ton in UFC, but really in pro wrestling it’s more the idea of a big show and if the company is a hot ticket as much as who is on top.
So probably until a decade or so ago, this stat was super significant. Now it just tells us more who had the most big show main events in WWE during the year.
Estimated North American PPV Buys -
- 147,000 - 3/29 WWE WrestleMania Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns
$2 Million Dollar Gates -
- $12,600,000 - 3/29 WWE WrestleMania Levi’s Stadium Lesnar vs. Reigns
Sting to be inducted in the Hall of Fame
WWE officially announced that Sting will headline its 2016 Hall of Fame Class to be inducted Wrestlemania weekend in Dallas, TX. He was expected to be the lead inductee this year for some time.
Steve "Sting" Borden was one of the biggest stars in pro wrestling during the 1990s with WCW, where he was a six-time WCW world champion and two time International world champion. He was also a two-time NWA champion and four time TNA champion.
Borden started his career working for Jerry Jarrett in late 1985 after only a few weeks of training under Red Bastien and Billy Anderson, as Power Team USA. He was discovered working in a Southern California gym by Rick Bassman, who was trying to put together a group of bodybuilders to capitalize on the popularity of the Road Warriors. Borden and Jim Hellwig, who became the Ultimate Warrior, left the camp and Bassman on their own after sending photos to all the different promotions. Only Jarrett responded, but the team only lasted a few weeks before Jarrett got rid of them.
Bill Watts hired the two based on potential. Watts had trouble with Hellwig, who quit and went to work for World Class wrestling, and then found his way to WWF. Sting started as a heel and was put under the wing of Eddie Gilbert, who turned him face just as the UWF was being sold to Jim Crockett Promotions. Most of the UWF talent got buried, but Sting was kept on as a prelim guy, who started gaining popularity.
His star exploded in one night when he was booked to do a 45 minute draw with Ric Flair on the first Clash of the Champions in 1988. From that day on, he was always considered a major star, and when Crockett Promotions told to Turner Broadcasting in 1989, Sting was considered the heir apparent as the company's top star after Flair. The decision was to change the title in February 1990, ironically, on Flair's 41st birthday in Greensboro. However, Sting suffered a bad knee injury in an angle building up the match, and the title change was moved to Baltimore and the Great American Bash that summer.
He remained as a top star with WCW until the promotion closed. He retired after not making a deal with WWF, but then came back for a lucrative deal with TNA. He agreed to come in 2006 and every year, he expected it to be his last. And every year, Dixie Carter offered him a new deal and he remained with the company until his last contract expired in early 2014. At that point, TNA could no longer afford him, and he opened up talks with WWE, later debuting at the 2014 Survivor Series in the show-closing angle.
Sting wrestled a few matches with WWE until suffering a neck injury at the 2015 Night of Champions after taking a power bomb into the turnbuckles in a match with then-World Champion Seth Rollins. He noted when talking with Ric Flair that he requires neck surgery, although has not gotten surgery yet.
He is also a TNA Hall-of-Famer.
WWE officially announced that Sting will headline its 2016 Hall of Fame Class to be inducted Wrestlemania weekend in Dallas, TX. He was expected to be the lead inductee this year for some time.
Steve "Sting" Borden was one of the biggest stars in pro wrestling during the 1990s with WCW, where he was a six-time WCW world champion and two time International world champion. He was also a two-time NWA champion and four time TNA champion.
Borden started his career working for Jerry Jarrett in late 1985 after only a few weeks of training under Red Bastien and Billy Anderson, as Power Team USA. He was discovered working in a Southern California gym by Rick Bassman, who was trying to put together a group of bodybuilders to capitalize on the popularity of the Road Warriors. Borden and Jim Hellwig, who became the Ultimate Warrior, left the camp and Bassman on their own after sending photos to all the different promotions. Only Jarrett responded, but the team only lasted a few weeks before Jarrett got rid of them.
Bill Watts hired the two based on potential. Watts had trouble with Hellwig, who quit and went to work for World Class wrestling, and then found his way to WWF. Sting started as a heel and was put under the wing of Eddie Gilbert, who turned him face just as the UWF was being sold to Jim Crockett Promotions. Most of the UWF talent got buried, but Sting was kept on as a prelim guy, who started gaining popularity.
His star exploded in one night when he was booked to do a 45 minute draw with Ric Flair on the first Clash of the Champions in 1988. From that day on, he was always considered a major star, and when Crockett Promotions told to Turner Broadcasting in 1989, Sting was considered the heir apparent as the company's top star after Flair. The decision was to change the title in February 1990, ironically, on Flair's 41st birthday in Greensboro. However, Sting suffered a bad knee injury in an angle building up the match, and the title change was moved to Baltimore and the Great American Bash that summer.
He remained as a top star with WCW until the promotion closed. He retired after not making a deal with WWF, but then came back for a lucrative deal with TNA. He agreed to come in 2006 and every year, he expected it to be his last. And every year, Dixie Carter offered him a new deal and he remained with the company until his last contract expired in early 2014. At that point, TNA could no longer afford him, and he opened up talks with WWE, later debuting at the 2014 Survivor Series in the show-closing angle.
Sting wrestled a few matches with WWE until suffering a neck injury at the 2015 Night of Champions after taking a power bomb into the turnbuckles in a match with then-World Champion Seth Rollins. He noted when talking with Ric Flair that he requires neck surgery, although has not gotten surgery yet.
He is also a TNA Hall-of-Famer.
Reigns to defend WWE title in Rumble
Vince McMahon announced that Roman Reigns would have to defend the title next against 29 other men in the Royal Rumble. This will mark the second time in the history of the event that dates back to 1988 as an annual January big show, that the title would be at stake in the Rumble match. The previous time was in 1992, when the title was held up after a match between champion Undertaker and Hulk Hogan and put up in the Rumble, and Ric Flair captured the title.
Names officially announced for the 30 man Rumble are Reigns, Chris Jericho, Bray Wyatt, Erick Rowan, Luke Harper, Braun Strowman, Dolph Ziggler, Ryback, Big Show and Curtis Axel (playing off the gag that he was never officially eliminated last year). A television commercial indicated Brock Lesnar, who is scheduled on the card, would be in the match. Aside from Sheamus, Rusev, Neville, the possibility of Undertaker and if Styles shows up as a surprise or they throw in some NXT talent, much of the rest would be filler guys, unless you also include Ambrose and Owens.
The New Day could be in if they aren’t defending the tag titles (or even in both, as Kingston in the Rumble is kind of a tradition at this point for a crazy athletic spot). Looking at that last, the real possibilities of winning would be Lesnar (who would make more sense as a challenger than champion unless he becomes The Authority hit man to take out Reigns, although every indication I have is that is not the direction this is going), Reigns, HHH, Daniel Bryan (going with the idea he’s cleared, which we don’t know and certainly no WrestleMania hints involve him at this point), or Sheamus.
Vince McMahon announced that Roman Reigns would have to defend the title next against 29 other men in the Royal Rumble. This will mark the second time in the history of the event that dates back to 1988 as an annual January big show, that the title would be at stake in the Rumble match. The previous time was in 1992, when the title was held up after a match between champion Undertaker and Hulk Hogan and put up in the Rumble, and Ric Flair captured the title.
Names officially announced for the 30 man Rumble are Reigns, Chris Jericho, Bray Wyatt, Erick Rowan, Luke Harper, Braun Strowman, Dolph Ziggler, Ryback, Big Show and Curtis Axel (playing off the gag that he was never officially eliminated last year). A television commercial indicated Brock Lesnar, who is scheduled on the card, would be in the match. Aside from Sheamus, Rusev, Neville, the possibility of Undertaker and if Styles shows up as a surprise or they throw in some NXT talent, much of the rest would be filler guys, unless you also include Ambrose and Owens.
The New Day could be in if they aren’t defending the tag titles (or even in both, as Kingston in the Rumble is kind of a tradition at this point for a crazy athletic spot). Looking at that last, the real possibilities of winning would be Lesnar (who would make more sense as a challenger than champion unless he becomes The Authority hit man to take out Reigns, although every indication I have is that is not the direction this is going), Reigns, HHH, Daniel Bryan (going with the idea he’s cleared, which we don’t know and certainly no WrestleMania hints involve him at this point), or Sheamus.
Rock will be at Mania
Dwayne Johnson announced on 12/28 that he will be part of WrestleMania at AT&T Stadium in Dallas this year.
Johnson was originally scheduled to face HHH in one of the top matches on the show, but that ended up being changed when there was an insurance issue with a movie he was working on because the insurance carrier was balking at covering the risk of an injury to Johnson delaying production.
At this point it’s not clear what role he will take in the show. But I would be surprised with them making an announcement so far in advance if he wasn’t figured into a significant role on the show. He’s used terms such as “it’s gonna be big” and “next level shit” planned regarding the appearance, which sounds like a tease for a major match.
Dwayne Johnson announced on 12/28 that he will be part of WrestleMania at AT&T Stadium in Dallas this year.
Johnson was originally scheduled to face HHH in one of the top matches on the show, but that ended up being changed when there was an insurance issue with a movie he was working on because the insurance carrier was balking at covering the risk of an injury to Johnson delaying production.
At this point it’s not clear what role he will take in the show. But I would be surprised with them making an announcement so far in advance if he wasn’t figured into a significant role on the show. He’s used terms such as “it’s gonna be big” and “next level shit” planned regarding the appearance, which sounds like a tease for a major match.
Rumble and Mania Plans
Reigns could overcome the odds and win, but given he’s constantly gotten the better of The Authority, the idea that he starts early, is there at the end, and gets screwed by them, would build up a direction. Having a heel champion, and that’s where the problem lies because they’ve yet to create a new top heel and Sheamus is weak in that position, defending against someone in February and with Reigns vs. HHH with Reigns having to win to get a title shot in February makes sense.
Schedule permitting, if they go with The Rock vs. HHH for Mania, then Rock helping Reigns overcome the odds makes for a good Fast Lane set up show. However, the impression we have right now is Rock is not cleared to wrestle on the show for the same insurance reason we reported on months ago.
Obviously, there will be a HHH vs. Reigns match at some point, whether at the Rumble, Fast Lane in February, or WrestleMania, and Rumble looks out, and I just find it hard to believe that HHH would shoot that big of an angle for Fast Lane. It’s also hard to believe HHH would compromise what would be the key angle for Mania if it is he against Reigns by going on NXT and no selling it.
Jericho returned on Raw, seemingly as a babyface. A week earlier he had wrote that he wasn’t coming back, but whether he is or isn’t, every year around this time he says that. He came back and did a verbal exchange with The New Day, but there’s no real hint of a direction.
Reigns could overcome the odds and win, but given he’s constantly gotten the better of The Authority, the idea that he starts early, is there at the end, and gets screwed by them, would build up a direction. Having a heel champion, and that’s where the problem lies because they’ve yet to create a new top heel and Sheamus is weak in that position, defending against someone in February and with Reigns vs. HHH with Reigns having to win to get a title shot in February makes sense.
Schedule permitting, if they go with The Rock vs. HHH for Mania, then Rock helping Reigns overcome the odds makes for a good Fast Lane set up show. However, the impression we have right now is Rock is not cleared to wrestle on the show for the same insurance reason we reported on months ago.
Obviously, there will be a HHH vs. Reigns match at some point, whether at the Rumble, Fast Lane in February, or WrestleMania, and Rumble looks out, and I just find it hard to believe that HHH would shoot that big of an angle for Fast Lane. It’s also hard to believe HHH would compromise what would be the key angle for Mania if it is he against Reigns by going on NXT and no selling it.
Jericho returned on Raw, seemingly as a babyface. A week earlier he had wrote that he wasn’t coming back, but whether he is or isn’t, every year around this time he says that. He came back and did a verbal exchange with The New Day, but there’s no real hint of a direction.
Brock at Fast Lane
Lesnar will be on the next three PPVs at least. He was always a lock for Rumble and Mania, and is now being advertised locally in Cleveland for Fast Lane on 2/21.
Lesnar will be on the next three PPVs at least. He was always a lock for Rumble and Mania, and is now being advertised locally in Cleveland for Fast Lane on 2/21.
Lucha Underground running Wrestlemania Weekend?
There is speculation that they may be running shows over WrestleMania weekend. Talent has been contacted about working two dates in Texas that weekend, and keeping their schedules free that weekend, but it wasn’t specifically stated where in Texas this would be. But talent has been told they are planning house shows
There is speculation that they may be running shows over WrestleMania weekend. Talent has been contacted about working two dates in Texas that weekend, and keeping their schedules free that weekend, but it wasn’t specifically stated where in Texas this would be. But talent has been told they are planning house shows
Fish and O'Reilly Leaving?
Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly’s contracts expire on 1/1, but they are back talking with ROH after negotiations were shut down by management a few weeks ago because they were far apart on money. There have been feelers sent to both of them from both WWE and TNA, although talks with ROH are now said to be progressing
Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly’s contracts expire on 1/1, but they are back talking with ROH after negotiations were shut down by management a few weeks ago because they were far apart on money. There have been feelers sent to both of them from both WWE and TNA, although talks with ROH are now said to be progressing
ObamaCare Hits WWE
The company informed talent that they will start doing random checks with insurance providers listed to make sure that the talent has the medical insurance they claim to have. One of the provisions of being hired by WWE is that all talent needs to have medical insurance. WWE pays for all medical coverage regarding injuries that take place in the ring, any medical costs involved in that as well as rehab costs. If the company finds out that the talent does not have the insurance that they claim to have, they have told talent they won’t use them until the insurance is updated. The checks will begin on 2/21
The company informed talent that they will start doing random checks with insurance providers listed to make sure that the talent has the medical insurance they claim to have. One of the provisions of being hired by WWE is that all talent needs to have medical insurance. WWE pays for all medical coverage regarding injuries that take place in the ring, any medical costs involved in that as well as rehab costs. If the company finds out that the talent does not have the insurance that they claim to have, they have told talent they won’t use them until the insurance is updated. The checks will begin on 2/21
Nikki Bella May fate to be determined
Nikki Bella on Twitter wrote in vague terms that she will know her future at the end of January, which has been reported is when she will get another MRI on her injured neck to determine if she will need surgery. Ryan Satin reported that on 12/22 she visited a neurologist where she was told that her bulging discs have not improved. From what we’ve been told, the doctor visit was legit, but that a lot of the injury news gets blurred because of the reality show storylines and that everyone in the cast has to sign confidentiality agreements about any subject matter that relates to future storylines until it airs, and they are filming this stuff.
The reality show stuff sometimes has roots in reality, on occasion is actually real and sometimes is completely made up with no roots in reality. There is a real injury in this case. She is out of action. The late January finding out about her needing surgery or not is likely legit, but a lot of the details are vague
Nikki Bella on Twitter wrote in vague terms that she will know her future at the end of January, which has been reported is when she will get another MRI on her injured neck to determine if she will need surgery. Ryan Satin reported that on 12/22 she visited a neurologist where she was told that her bulging discs have not improved. From what we’ve been told, the doctor visit was legit, but that a lot of the injury news gets blurred because of the reality show storylines and that everyone in the cast has to sign confidentiality agreements about any subject matter that relates to future storylines until it airs, and they are filming this stuff.
The reality show stuff sometimes has roots in reality, on occasion is actually real and sometimes is completely made up with no roots in reality. There is a real injury in this case. She is out of action. The late January finding out about her needing surgery or not is likely legit, but a lot of the details are vague
JBL and Russo Showdown?
John Layfield sort of invited Vince Russo on his WWE Network talk show. Russo did a rebuttal for Eric Bischoff’s comments on him, saying that the lawsuit Hogan did against Russo and WCW was settled for several million dollars while Russo claimed the suit was thrown out of court twice, which proves he was right and he never double-crossed Hogan in the Bash at the Beach angle. Russo didn’t listen closely, because he kept talking about how Jeff Jarrett laying down for Hogan in the angle couldn’t have been a double-cross because why didn’t Bischoff and Hogan say anything to him.
Bischoff never claimed that was the double-cross and from day one privately always admitted it was agreed upon (publicly he didn’t because it would give away the angle), but that it was Russo’s comments after they left the building that they didn’t know about and that’s what Hogan sued over.
Layfield, who is friends with Bischoff, said the entire idea of him interviewing Bischoff was his, that he wanted to put over how amazing it was that Bischoff took a company from losing $10 million a year to making $40 million (neglecting that two years later that company was losing even more than when it started and three years later it lost $62 million). Layfield said he doesn’t like Russo but would have him on his show, and said that he’s gotten older and has no animosity toward Russo.
Layfield said that while Bischoff was paid for the interview, he did it for history and not for money. As noted, there were a lot of historical problems with Bischoff’s interview because, as people who have worked with him and been friends with him have noted, he really does have a terrible memory. But his perspective big picture on the Monday Night Wars is far more accurate than the very simplistic WWE storyline. Layfield said he’d be honored to have Russo on but then did the “I’m not asking for him to come on,” saying how it would take days away from working with at risk kids in Bermuda if he had to come to Connecticut to film it.
John Layfield sort of invited Vince Russo on his WWE Network talk show. Russo did a rebuttal for Eric Bischoff’s comments on him, saying that the lawsuit Hogan did against Russo and WCW was settled for several million dollars while Russo claimed the suit was thrown out of court twice, which proves he was right and he never double-crossed Hogan in the Bash at the Beach angle. Russo didn’t listen closely, because he kept talking about how Jeff Jarrett laying down for Hogan in the angle couldn’t have been a double-cross because why didn’t Bischoff and Hogan say anything to him.
Bischoff never claimed that was the double-cross and from day one privately always admitted it was agreed upon (publicly he didn’t because it would give away the angle), but that it was Russo’s comments after they left the building that they didn’t know about and that’s what Hogan sued over.
Layfield, who is friends with Bischoff, said the entire idea of him interviewing Bischoff was his, that he wanted to put over how amazing it was that Bischoff took a company from losing $10 million a year to making $40 million (neglecting that two years later that company was losing even more than when it started and three years later it lost $62 million). Layfield said he doesn’t like Russo but would have him on his show, and said that he’s gotten older and has no animosity toward Russo.
Layfield said that while Bischoff was paid for the interview, he did it for history and not for money. As noted, there were a lot of historical problems with Bischoff’s interview because, as people who have worked with him and been friends with him have noted, he really does have a terrible memory. But his perspective big picture on the Monday Night Wars is far more accurate than the very simplistic WWE storyline. Layfield said he’d be honored to have Russo on but then did the “I’m not asking for him to come on,” saying how it would take days away from working with at risk kids in Bermuda if he had to come to Connecticut to film it.
Sin Cara Hurt
Sin Cara suffered a dislocated left shoulder in his 12/28 Raw match with Big E. The spot where it happened, replayed over-and-over again during the show, was he on the ring apron and E swept his leg and he took a bump on the floor. Instead of landing on his back, he landed badly on his shoulder. The New Day stalled and played to the crowd while the trainer checked on him. Obviously he wanted to continue so they continued the match. It was clear the way he was moving that the left arm was hanging there useless. But he went through most of his planned spots. E protected him in the slam for the finish. WWE officials said that while full medical reports aren’t in, the belief is the injury wasn’t serious
Sin Cara suffered a dislocated left shoulder in his 12/28 Raw match with Big E. The spot where it happened, replayed over-and-over again during the show, was he on the ring apron and E swept his leg and he took a bump on the floor. Instead of landing on his back, he landed badly on his shoulder. The New Day stalled and played to the crowd while the trainer checked on him. Obviously he wanted to continue so they continued the match. It was clear the way he was moving that the left arm was hanging there useless. But he went through most of his planned spots. E protected him in the slam for the finish. WWE officials said that while full medical reports aren’t in, the belief is the injury wasn’t serious
The NXT Dilemma
Some items that have been major discussion points in NXT include Balor and Bayley specifically doing media indicating they’re happy staying in NXT, but others noting that they are relying so much on Balor in particular to have killer matches to headline, and at 34, with all the mileage from years in New Japan, there is a feeling that the more they tour this year that he’ll be breaking down his body carrying the main events before getting the perks (money) of the main roster and that NXT was supposed to get him ready to be able to make big money, not break him down before he gets there.
With Bayley, the question has revolved around whether she’ll be the biggest female star in company history or that she’ll go nowhere on the main roster. The feeling is there is no in between. Some see her as a female Cena, in the sense she could do charity work, and bring in younger girl fans, an audience WWE has never been that strong with except in the big heyday periods when they were hot enough that they were strong everywhere. There is an inherent shelf life in a character like that, not that she can’t originally be a superstar in one role and adapt to a changing roles after being established. But if they wait too long and she can’t pass for the older teenager big sister or older friend, and starts looking more like an “aunt,” or even just a college girl, the connection is very different and the window will have closed.
Some items that have been major discussion points in NXT include Balor and Bayley specifically doing media indicating they’re happy staying in NXT, but others noting that they are relying so much on Balor in particular to have killer matches to headline, and at 34, with all the mileage from years in New Japan, there is a feeling that the more they tour this year that he’ll be breaking down his body carrying the main events before getting the perks (money) of the main roster and that NXT was supposed to get him ready to be able to make big money, not break him down before he gets there.
With Bayley, the question has revolved around whether she’ll be the biggest female star in company history or that she’ll go nowhere on the main roster. The feeling is there is no in between. Some see her as a female Cena, in the sense she could do charity work, and bring in younger girl fans, an audience WWE has never been that strong with except in the big heyday periods when they were hot enough that they were strong everywhere. There is an inherent shelf life in a character like that, not that she can’t originally be a superstar in one role and adapt to a changing roles after being established. But if they wait too long and she can’t pass for the older teenager big sister or older friend, and starts looking more like an “aunt,” or even just a college girl, the connection is very different and the window will have closed.
TNA on POP TV
TNA started its latest reboot, months after last taping television, with an almost live (the show was actually taped a few hours before it aired) show built around crowning a new world champion on 1/5.
Ethan Carter III became the new champion, beating Bobby Lashley in the semifinals with help from Tyrus, and then pinning Matt Hardy clean, with no outside help, in the finals.
The debut show did 255,000 viewers, less than they were doing most weeks on Destination America, even though they had increased from 57 million to 72 million available homes. A replay airing did 90,000 viewers.
The attempts at bringing in new additions for the first show ended up with Storm, the debut of The Miracle, Mike Bennett, and his sidekick, Maria Kanellis. Storm signed two-year contract with TNA to return. Storm & Roode reformed Beer Money, with Storm doing a promo about how he left because he didn’t like how he was being portrayed because that wasn’t him.
Jeff Hardy was going to do his first match since breaking his leg at the 1/6 tapings. He still needs major knee surgery.
TNA started its latest reboot, months after last taping television, with an almost live (the show was actually taped a few hours before it aired) show built around crowning a new world champion on 1/5.
Ethan Carter III became the new champion, beating Bobby Lashley in the semifinals with help from Tyrus, and then pinning Matt Hardy clean, with no outside help, in the finals.
The debut show did 255,000 viewers, less than they were doing most weeks on Destination America, even though they had increased from 57 million to 72 million available homes. A replay airing did 90,000 viewers.
The attempts at bringing in new additions for the first show ended up with Storm, the debut of The Miracle, Mike Bennett, and his sidekick, Maria Kanellis. Storm signed two-year contract with TNA to return. Storm & Roode reformed Beer Money, with Storm doing a promo about how he left because he didn’t like how he was being portrayed because that wasn’t him.
Jeff Hardy was going to do his first match since breaking his leg at the 1/6 tapings. He still needs major knee surgery.
WrestleMania at the Big House?
Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh has been pushing the idea of doing WrestleMania at the Michigan Stadium, saying that they could break the all-time attendance record. The stadium holds 107,601 for football, so with the stage set up, they could probably put somewhere around a real 102,000 in, which would break anything they will legitimately do this year.
Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh has been pushing the idea of doing WrestleMania at the Michigan Stadium, saying that they could break the all-time attendance record. The stadium holds 107,601 for football, so with the stage set up, they could probably put somewhere around a real 102,000 in, which would break anything they will legitimately do this year.
NXT Takeover Time Change
Axxess before WrestleMania will take place at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, the same building that the NXT show takes place in. The arena and the part of the building that Axxess will be in are two different places, however because of the time scheduled for Axxess, they are delaying the start of the NXT Takeover show on 4/1 until after Axxess is over. The Takeover show is scheduled for the card to start at 9 p.m. local time right now and with it being Central time, the show is set for a 10 p.m. start time on the network until after midnight.
The Axxess times are 3/31 (Thursday) from 6-10 p.m.; Friday from 5-9 p.m.; Saturday from 8 a.m. to Noon; 1-5 p.m. and 6-10 p.m. (head-to-head with the Hall of Fame) and on the morning of WrestleMania from 8 a.m. to Noon.
Axxess before WrestleMania will take place at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, the same building that the NXT show takes place in. The arena and the part of the building that Axxess will be in are two different places, however because of the time scheduled for Axxess, they are delaying the start of the NXT Takeover show on 4/1 until after Axxess is over. The Takeover show is scheduled for the card to start at 9 p.m. local time right now and with it being Central time, the show is set for a 10 p.m. start time on the network until after midnight.
The Axxess times are 3/31 (Thursday) from 6-10 p.m.; Friday from 5-9 p.m.; Saturday from 8 a.m. to Noon; 1-5 p.m. and 6-10 p.m. (head-to-head with the Hall of Fame) and on the morning of WrestleMania from 8 a.m. to Noon.
Bully Ray?
I don’t know that anything will transpire from this, because stuff gets pitched all the time that doesn’t happen, but breaking up the Dudleys with Bubba doing a character more similar to Bully Ray has at least been discussed.
I don’t know that anything will transpire from this, because stuff gets pitched all the time that doesn’t happen, but breaking up the Dudleys with Bubba doing a character more similar to Bully Ray has at least been discussed.
Natty Coming Back
Natalya returned from a broken ankle on the 1/3 show in Corpus Christi, doing a run-in. She broke it in November, but apparently for most of the past two months, she wasn’t even aware of it. She hurt it, I believe while in the U.K. She thought it was a sprain and was walking around on it and figured she’d need maybe a week off. But it didn’t get better. Eventually she had it examined and found out it was broken. She wasn’t used at TV this week but should be back wrestling imminently.
Natalya returned from a broken ankle on the 1/3 show in Corpus Christi, doing a run-in. She broke it in November, but apparently for most of the past two months, she wasn’t even aware of it. She hurt it, I believe while in the U.K. She thought it was a sprain and was walking around on it and figured she’d need maybe a week off. But it didn’t get better. Eventually she had it examined and found out it was broken. She wasn’t used at TV this week but should be back wrestling imminently.
Romero resigns with NJPW
Rocky Romero, who was among those who has been talked about as leaving New Japan for WWE, has signed a new deal with New Japan. Romero had been in talks with WWE about a job as a "player/coach" in NXT, and told a number of people today he had decided to stay put for at least two more years.
Rocky Romero, who was among those who has been talked about as leaving New Japan for WWE, has signed a new deal with New Japan. Romero had been in talks with WWE about a job as a "player/coach" in NXT, and told a number of people today he had decided to stay put for at least two more years.
Randy Orton denies Report
Randy Orton on his Instagram said he does not need neck surgery. He wrote, "I see many of you think I need neck surgery. I heard weeks ago that Meltzer stated it as a fact. I don't keep up with gossip, so I didn't think anything of it. As far as my shoulder, I was cut on 12/8. Things are ahead of schedule and I'm pumped to get back to work. As far as my neck, and I'm only debunking this 'fact' for the sincerely concerned fans, I DONT need neck surgery. Remember, unless you hear about it on WWE.com, you really should take everything you read online concerning pro wrestling with a grain of salt."
Randy Orton on his Instagram said he does not need neck surgery. He wrote, "I see many of you think I need neck surgery. I heard weeks ago that Meltzer stated it as a fact. I don't keep up with gossip, so I didn't think anything of it. As far as my shoulder, I was cut on 12/8. Things are ahead of schedule and I'm pumped to get back to work. As far as my neck, and I'm only debunking this 'fact' for the sincerely concerned fans, I DONT need neck surgery. Remember, unless you hear about it on WWE.com, you really should take everything you read online concerning pro wrestling with a grain of salt."