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December 4th
On this day in history in ....
1970 - Rey Mendoza defeats John Tolos in Los Angeles, California for the NWA United National Heavyweight Title. That belt is now part of All Japan Pro Wrestling's Triple Crown championship.
1973 - Mariko Akagi & Peggy Kuroda defeat Sarah Lee & Sylvia Hackney for the WWWA World Tag Team Title in Osaka, Japan to start their second reign as champions.
1976 - Hercules Ayala & Victor Jovica defeat Higo Hamaguchi & Gordon Nelson in Caguas, Puerto Rico for the WWC North American Tag Team Title.
1978 - Jerry Lawler defeats Don Fargo in Memphis, Tennessee to win the AWA Southern Heavyweight Title, ending Fargo's second reign. For Lawler, this would be the fourth of an eventual thirty-three AWA Southern Heavyweight Title wins.
1979 - Bill Watts defeats Mike George in Baton Rouge, Louisiana to win the Mid-South North American Heavyweight Title. Before you groan over a promoter giving himself the top title in his own territory, realize that Watts would lose it back to George two days later, and never held the title again.
1993 - Kevin Sullivan & Tazmaniac defeat Tommy Dreamer & Shane Douglas (subbing for Johnny Gunn) to win the ECW Tag Team Title in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania when Douglas turned on Dreamer. This would be the first ECW championship held by the Tazmaniac (later Taz). Ironically, Taz would lose his last ECW World Heavyweight Title to Tommy Dreamer in April 2000 in his last in-ring appearance for the promotion.
1997 - Cash Flo defeats Rollin' Hard for the IWA-Mid South Television Title in Lexington, Kentucky.
1998 - Ian Rotten defeats Corporal Robinson in Salem, Indiana to become a four-time IWA Mid-South Heavyweight Champion. Within the first few minutes of the match, Ian hit Robinson in the head with a window pane that had florescent light tubes attached to it. It cut an artery above Robinson's temple, and blood was literally spurting out of his head. Ian quickly pinned Robinson with a double arm DDT, winning the title, and ending the match in less than four minutes. Robinson was taken to a hospital, and suffered a brain aneurysm due to a blood clot. He eventually returned to wrestling.
1999 - Ryuji Yamakawa defeats Shadow WX in Yokohama, Japan for the Big Japan Pro Wrestling Death Match Title. This match ended Shadow WX's third reign, and started the second reign for Yamakawa.
1999 - Rico Constantino defeats Steve Bradley for the Memphis Power Pro Wrestling Heavyweight Title in Memphis, Tennessee, ending Bradley's second reign with the title.
2001 - During a taping of Smackdown at the Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois, Vince McMahon was given a Stinkface by Rikishi, putting an end (at least for a while) to the Vince McMahon "Kiss My Ass" club. The Rock had the honors of having Vince kiss his rear end (the result of a prematch stipulation on Raw), but instead teased that Vince would have to kiss Jim Ross' or Trish Stratus' rear (Vince actually like the idea of kissing Trish's) before bringing out Rikishi. Vince refused to kiss Rikishi's rear, so Rock gave him a Rock Bottom, then rammed Vince's face into Rikishi's posterior. An earlier plan by Vince to have Kurt Angle come out and save him was stopped when Steve Austin beat up Angle backstage.
2003 - William Jones, professionally known as Chilly Willy during his time in Extreme Championship Wrestling, recently received a purple heart for service in the United States military while on tour in Iraq. The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the armed forces of the U.S. who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy and posthumously to the next of kin in the name of those who are killed in action or die of wounds received in action. It is specifically a combat decoration. Although details aren't completely known, Jones was wounded in action and was awarded the commendation for service to his country. Jones has recovered from his wounds and is slated to return home to the United States in the Spring of 2004, although that could change depending on the current military situation in Iraq. Jones joined the military following Extreme Championship Wrestling's bankruptcy and was sent to Iraq at the onset of the current conflict. During his run in Extreme Championship Wrestling, Jones' highest profile bout was a flaming tables match, teaming with Balls Mahoney against The Baldies of Angel and Tony Devito in Chicago at the Anarchy Rulz PPV in October 2000.
2003 - WWE runs in Seoul, South Korea with World Champion Brock Lesnar defeating Chris Benoit. Puritan filed the following live report:
Just got back from Smackdown's house show in Seoul, Korea.
Events:
I got there a bit late so I missed the beginning, but the opening had Paul Heyman out in the ring, bragging about Brock Lesnar. Surprisingly, despite being a Raw superstar, Ric Flair was on the show; he came out and started arguing with Heyman. Heyman belittled the sixteen-time world champion and Flair, in turned, locked Heyman into a figure four. When A-Train came out and made the save, and Heyman booked a Flair/A-Train match for later that night.
The first match pit Rikishi and Scotty 2 Hotty against the FBI (Palumbo/Stamboli). The match started off very slow, with both sides working the crowd for a long time before actually locking up. After hitting the Stinkface and the Worm, Rikishi won it with a Samoan Drop on one of the FBI (can't remember for sure which one). After the match, Scotty did his usual convince-Rikishi-to-dance routine and Rikishi came up with two kids out of the audience to dance. Scotty did another worm and tried to get the kids to imitate him; the first kid did a pretty decent worm.
Ultimo Dragon vs. Shannon Moore: Moore was ostensibly the heel here, as Korea is still pre-Survivor Series. Dragon won with his finisher (don't know its name, shamefully). Afterwards, Moore got a decent ovation as well.
Billy Kidman and Funaki beat the World's Greatest Tag Team after Kidman hit a Shooting Star Press. WGTT got a good pop coming out (and rightfully so).
Shaniqua beat Dawn Marie with a big boot to the head. Shaniqua looks absolutely _huge_, I might add.
A fatal four-way for the Cruiserweight Championship pit Tajiri against Rey Mysterio, Jamie Noble, and Nunzio in the match of the night. Mysterio got a _huge_ pop coming out. Tajiri first pinned Noble after the blinded Nidia was dragged into the ring, distracting Noble. A big "Rey" chant started up, although with the Korean accent it came out as "Reh-ee, Reh-ee", which sounded a lot like "Eddie" to me. Rey pinned Nunzio with a cool-looking maneuver. The finish came when Rey hit the 619 but Tajiri pulled the ref into the West Coast Pop, giving him time to hit Rey with the green mist for the cheap win.
John Cena and Bradshaw came out for their match. Cena was over huge, and won even more pops incorporating some Korean words into his freestyles. They were facing Matt Morgan, Nathan Jones, and the Big Show. The place exploded when the Big Show came out; the audience was popping huge for any big star when they made their entrance, face or heel. Heyman came out next, starting off an "asshole" chant, saying that Hardcore Holly was scheduled to be Cena and Bradshaw's partner but that he was suspended and banned from coming to Korea. Right on cue, Holly came out. Holly won the match with the Alabama Slam on Morgan, but I don't think he's well-known enough in Korea after his long injury; the crowd didn't pop big for his finisher (or even seem to recognize that it was a finisher). The cheers for Big Show's entrance, and a big pop when he first entered the match and gave Cena a chokeslam, didn't diminish the "Big Show sucks!" chants though.
Intermission:
Flair vs. A-Train: Flair was the face and played a comic role for most of the match, starting a test-of-strength contest and getting forced to his knees using two hands against Albert's one, flopping around for a bearhug, etc. A-Train dominated for most of the match, but pulled Flair up at two to dish out more punishment. Flair put a knee up at an attempted Vader Bomb and got A-Traint to tap to the figure four. Post-match, A-Train extended a handshake and showed his respect to Flair.
The Bashams beat the Guerreros to retain the Tag Titles. No Eddie/Chavo dissention; lots of Eddie/Chavo comedy, including a bit where the referee kept forcing Eddie to hold the tag rope and Eddie loosened the other end of the rope from the turnbuckle and dragged it all the way to the middle of the top rope, all the time still holding it. Eddie and Chavo were over huge. Finish came after Eddie hit a frog splash but Shaniqua distracted the ref, allowing the Bashams to switch and cradle Eddie for the pin.
Brock Lesnar beat Chris Benoit in the main event to retain the WWE Championship. Big pop for both contestants as they entered; big "you tapped out" chant. Lesnar kicked out of the headbutt; Benoit kicked out of the F5. Lesnar blocked two Crippler Crossfaces but got trapped in a third and tapped, but the ref was out; Lesnar hit a low blow for the pin. An okay match, but on the short side, and not up to what these two are capable of. Post-match, Benoit says it was worth not winning the title to see Brock tap again; Brock runs out, enraged, only to get snapped into another Crossface and taps again to close the show.
Under 10,000 would probably be the best guess for attendance I guess, with about 80% capacity, with all empty seats being up in the cheap levels, not on the lower levels. (Actually, I have no idea what the total seating capacity is and am very bad at estimating that, so perhaps it's best for me not to quote any figures at all.)
All in all a fun show; hopefully the WWE will be back again soon.
2003 - JJ Dillon appeared on Between the Ropes radio in Florida. Richard Trionfo filed the following report:
J. J. Dillon joined the show to talk about his career and his upcoming appearance at the Mid-Atlantic Wrestling Legends Convention & Fanfest in Charlotte, NC.
J. J. gave an update on his recent appearances and that his appearance on NWA:TNA was due to his friendship with Jerry Jarrett. J.J.'s appearance was when TNA was trying to figure out what their role was at the time.
He talked about his work with WWF in the front office. J.J. started as a referee with Vincent J. McMahon. When his career was winding down, he was recruited by Vince McMahon to work for WWF after he retired from in ring action. This was at a time when Crockett was transferring ownership to Ted Turner. At that time, J.J. saw the writing on the wall that it was time to move on to WWF. He was in WWF for almost 8 years and was a vice president, with an office between Vince and Linda.
J.J. went back to WCW after having some issues with Vince and starting a new family. J.J. figured that Eric Bischoff would use J.J. to help him, or else think that he was a threat because of how little Eric knew. It turned out that the latter was the situation, and he feels that this kept him down in WCW.
Talk moved on the current situation in wrestling and whether they have forgotten about the past. J.J. feels that wrestling is a talent driven business, and the problem is the lack of new talent coming into the business. He feels that there are a lot of great performers, but they are not the wrestlers that most fans expect to see. Another problem is the lack of competition, and compares it to baseball eliminating the minor leagues to prevent the young stars from learning. J.J. talks about how he could work 6 nights a week to build on their craft, and the stars would come from that system.
J.J. was asked about what it was like to have Vince Russo work with him in WCW. J.J. talked about the 'cloak and dagger' way that Russo came to WCW from WWF because he was afraid of what Vince McMahon would do. J.J. feels that hiring Vince Russo was a calculated risk, but he would do it again if he had to make the decision. J.J. feels that Vince Russo self-destructed in WCW.
J.J. discussed his start in the business and how he got to Charlotte to work for Jim Crockett Sr. after being in Detroit and Pittsburgh. This would be a time for him to see some of the people that he worked with in the business when he started. The rumor of some of the original horsemen appearing at the Convention.
The discussion moved on to the Four Horsemen, and J.J. says that while there were tag teams that despised each other, the Horsemen were five people, there was a constant. They did things together, and did their share of partying. Flair was the glue, Arn was the tag team specialist. The Horsemen were a way to get people over in the business, and then when they were dropped from the Horsemen, it started an instant feud. Some of the best television that he remembers was spontaneous. It didn't matter if one person got more mic time during a promo because they enjoyed traveling with each other.
2006 - Paul Heyman made his exit from World Wrestling Entertainment. Heyman was sent home from a Raw/ECW taping in North Carolina following a meeting with Vince McMahon, one day after the disastrous ECW December To Dismember Pay-per-view. Heyman was removed from the ECW Creative team, while a storyline reason for his departure was posted on WWE.com, stating Vince sent him home because: "The WWE Chairman cited slumping television ratings and a disgruntled talent roster as causes for Mr. Heyman's dismissal." Heyman had been portraying the heel "ECW Representative" on television.
The backstage story was that Vince McMahon was irate about how awful the PPV was and wanted to pin the blame on Heyman for it, despite many feeling that the poor PPV (which ended a half hour early) was the result of what the McMahons (Vince and Stephanie) booked for the show. Heyman was said to be unhappy with the way that the PPV was booked and backstage sources claim he voiced that concern both before the show began and after it. It was obvious that there were issues between Vince McMahon and Heyman because of the how the show played out on PPV, with everyone knowing it was a disaster.
A number of sources stated that a meeting was held around two o'clock with Heyman, Vince McMahon and Stephanie McMahon-Levesque. Heyman came out of the meeting and seemed like his normal self, with no one realizing what had just taken place. Shortly thereafter, Heyman gathered his things and left the building to go home.
In the years that followed, Heyman launched his "Heyman Hustle" online series and co-authored Brock Lesnar's autobiography. He turned down all wrestling-related bookings and began work on his own released autobiography, which to date, has never been released. When Lesnar returned to WWE, Heyman initially turned down coming in with him but would soon relent, working with Lesnar and WWE champion CM Punk, among others. He remains with WWE, working with Lesnar in front of the camera and working behind the scenes with scores of others.
2006 - The Big Show wrestled his final match before a long sabbatical for WWE during the ECW taping in North Carolina, losing to ECW Champion Bobby Lashley. The match was set up by a pre-taped Paul Heyman promo (done the night before at the December To Dismember PPV) where a crying Heyman, upset over Lashley having become ECW champion, announced the match before stating "I'm done, thanks" and walking off. Show would not return until the build for Wrestlemania 24 in early 2008.
2009 - Eddie Fatu, better known to WWE fans as Umaga, passes away. Mike Johnson penned the following:
Former WWE Intercontinental champion and one-time Wrestlemania headliner Eddie "Umaga" Fatu passed away after being hospitalized in a ICU unit in Houston, Texas.
Fatu, was born on March 28, 1973. A part of the famous Anoai Samoan wrestling family, his early career was spent mostly in tag team action with his cousin Matt Anoai as The Island Boys in WWF developmental HWA.
After working various territories here and overseas, Fatu and Anoai were christened "3-Minute Warning" (Jamal and Rosey) by WWE in 2002, where they were essentially henchmen for then Raw General Manager Eric Bischoff. He was released from WWE in the summer of 2003, reportedly after being involved in a fight in a restaurant. Matt stayed on as Rosey, best known as Hurricane Helms' Super Hero In Training.
Fatu then wrestled as Ekmo for TNA, and also began working for All Japan Pro Wrestling. During his time in All Japan, his work improved greatly, and in 2005 he resigned with WWE and the Umaga character debuted in 2006. Before signing with WWE again, he also made regular appearances for the now-defunct Major League Wrestling promoted by Court Bauer in Florida.
Initially managed by Armando Alejandro Estrada, Umaga wrestled main event level stars such as Ric Flair, Triple H, Shawn Michaels and had what was considered one of John Cena's best matches ever at the Royal Rumble in January 2007. This was followed by the highest profile match of his career, as he was Vince McMahon's "hand-picked" wrestler against Bobby Lashley (who was representing Donald Trump) at Wrestlemania 23, which was the centerpiece of that year's promotion for the event in Detroit. Umaga lost and as a result, Lashley, Trump and special referee Steve Austin shaved Vince McMahon bald.
Umaga remained a mid to upper card performer for the company, until a torn PCL sidelined him in 2008. During that time off, he was suspended by WWE when his name came up among a list of performers who had received prescriptions from an online pharmacy, a violation of the company's Wellness Policy. He returned to the ring in January 2009, and appeared to be geared up for another big push with rumors of a big program with The Undertaker on the Smackdown brand. He was released suddenly in June of 2009 after his second Wellness Policy violation. WWE later disclosed that Fatu refused to enter rehabilitation, as outlined in their policy (a second violation meant automatic rehab), and he was promptly was let go.
Fatu then wrestled on international and independent shows using variations on the Umaga name (like "Rumaga"). He claimed several months back that he might be returning to the company while backing out of a scheduled DVD interview, but nothing came of it. He ended up booked on Hulk Hogan's Australia tour as his brother, the former Rikishi, booked the undercard talent, working with Ken Anderson.
Our best wishes to the Anoai family and Fatu's friends, family and fans during this sad time.
2010 - WWE Raw ran Las Vegas. Thomas Brunette filed the following live report:
Just thought I would pass along some notes from tonight's WWE house show here in Las Vegas.
The crowd was hot all night and it everything which is good and it was a pretty nice sized crowd considering the rodeo is in town. Justin Roberts was the ring announcer and his arm was in a sling. First match of the night was Chris Masters who was over huge as a babyface took on Tyler Reks. It was a pretty good match with Masters in control early. Masters won but unfortunately I don't recall how he won but it might've been with the Masterlock.
Next match of the night saw Drew McIntyre take on Chavo Guerrero who got a really nice pop too since he's not on TV either. This was another good match as Chavo got in a lot of offense. Drew worked over Chavo's arm during the match and even slammed it into the ring steps. Chavo hit the frog splash but only got two as Drew grabbed the bottom rope. Chavo hit two of the three amigos as Drew blocked the third one and poked Chavo in the eye which led to the future shock DDT for the win.
Our third match of the night saw Alex Riley take on Primo who got an ok pop but nothing special. I think Riley has improved since the last time I saw him which was back in August of 2008. A lot of people were chanting DUI at Riley. I didn't see how but Riley picked up the win. After the match as Primo was going to back to the locker room, I believe Gabriel and Slater attacked him. I couldn't see who did it from where I was but I did see Gabriel and Slater get into the ring so I'm guessing it was only those two. Tons of heat here for the tag champs as Slater said on the mic that they weren't the champs by luck and challenged any team to a match which was accepted by Santino and Kozlov. Now before the match began, the anonymous Raw GM dinged in and Justin Roberts announced that the GM was making this a dance off. Now how the Raw GM was able to ding in is beyond me but that's besides the point. People did boo when the lights flickered and the noise sounded. So anyway, Santino and Kozlov danced an then got attacked by the champs which started the match. It was an OK match with Nexus in control a lot and doing a lot of double teaming to huge heat. Kozlov played the babyface in peril and made the hot tag to Santino who did all his usual spots including the cobra. Santino went for the pin but Gabriel broke it up. Kozlov went charging after Gabriel but Gabriel pulled the top rope down and Kozlov flew over. Santino went after Gabriel but Slater nailed Santino with a variation of the Zig Zag. Slater pulled Santino to the corner and made the tag to Gabriel who went top to the top and nailed the 450 for the pin. After the match Nexus continued beating down Santino but Kozlov chased them away with a chair.
Next up we had what was supposed to be an Intercontinental Title match between Dolph Ziggler and Kaval but before Kaval came out Dolph got the mic and said that his beautiful girlfriend Vickie Guerrero told him he only had to defend the championship every 30 days so we wont be getting a title match. Kaval then came out to a not so good reaction but did get on the mic and called Dolph chicken as Dolph said he was gonna leave. Dolph changed his mind and wanted Charles Robinson to take his vest off but Kaval took it off instead and put it on himself to a nice reaction. These two had a decent match but I thought Survivor Series was a little better. Kaval won over the crowd near the end. Kaval got the pin after reversing a Dolph rollup and bridging to a huge pop. The crowd was all over Dolph calling him chicken and he couldn't believe Kaval had pinned him.
Rosa Mendes by the way showed off some merchandise and had a little kid be the guest bell ringer for I believe the tag title bout. After the IC Title match we had an appearance by the new WWE Champion The Miz. Miz told us that if we would've bet on him five years ago when he debuted we would be millionaires but none of us did as nobody believed in him and nobody gave him a chance. Miz then went on to say that he was the ultimate opportunist by cashing in his Money in the Bank briefcase. This brought out Edge who clotheslined Riley over the top and then Miz. Edge took the mic and said that he was the only ultimate opportunist in the WWE. Edge said that The Miz is copying Edge's blueprint by winning money in the bank which Edge won the first one. Then cashing it in which Edge did and then the following week having a TLC match with a WWE legend which he did (btw, there were no Woo's when Edge said that), then Edge said he went on to have a live sex celebration but Miz didn't have Lita so Miz would have one with Riley. Edge then said later in the night that it would be a triple threat match between him, Miz and Barrett and Edge would become the WWE Champion for the 10th time. Edge then left which took us to intermission.
After intermission we have Layla challenging Natalya for the Divas title and I have to say that TV does neither woman justice. So Layla brings in some ball and dribbles it and then does leg exercises with it. Natalya then grabbed the ball and threw it in Layla's face to start the match. It was a decent match with Natalya winning with the sharpshooter.
Next up we had Cody Rhodes and Alberto del Rio vs. Kofi Kingston and Rey Mysterio. Rey was over huge with the crowd as there were a lot of 619 chants. Before the match begins Alberto teases throwing his towel into the crowd since Kofi threw his shirt into the crowd but instead Del Rio dropped it on the mat to a chorus of boos and then dropped it outside the ring, Kofi and Rey grab the towel and have some fun with in including Kofi pulling it between his legs. When the match finally starts Rey drops Alberto in the corner sitting down and then Cody charges at Rey but Rey drops Cody right into Alberto's crotch face first. Rey and Kofi win after a 619 and a big splash off the top onto Cody. After the match Kofi and Rey get Cody's jacket daring him to come get it which he doesn't so instead Kofi does the boom drop on it to a big pop.
Before the match Justin Roberts thanks us for coming and looks forward to seeing us in the future.
Main event time as Miz comes out to huge heat, Barrett gets small boos and Edge gets a big pop. It was a good match between the three as they used the ring post a lot. They all got their usual spots in and when Edge hit the spear on Barrett with Miz out on the floor, Riley pulled Edge off of Barrett and to the outside. Riley then threw Edge into the steel guardrail while Miz slipped in and hit the skull crushing finale on Barrett for the three. After the match Riley threw Edge into the ring and he and Miz double teamed him. Riley held Edge for Miz to hit him with the belt but Edge moved and Miz hit Riley to a pop. Edge then speared Miz to send the crowd home happy. Afterward, Edge walked around ringside slapping hands.
Overall it was a fun show to attend and am glad I went. I would say the biggest pop for sure went to Rey Mysterio and the most boos went to The Miz and Riley followed by Gabriel and Slater.
2011 - RIng of Honor hosted a 80 minute match in Greensboro, NC. Ty Townsend filed the following results:
Ring of Honor in Greensboro, NC results:
*Mike Bennett defeated TJ Perkins in a good opener.
*The All Night Express defeated Bravado Brothers. The Young Bucks took out Rhett Titus before the match and Kenny King wrestled as a handicap match. Titus came out for the hot tag to get the victory.
*ROH TV champ Jay Lethal defeated Adam Cole in a Proving Ground match. Another good bout.
*The Young Bucks over Caprice Coleman and Alexander ? in another strong match.
Intermission.
*Right Leg Andy Ridge over much a bigger opponent. Both busted open hardway.
*Eddie Edwards, El Generico and ROH Tag Team champions Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin defeated the Briscoes, Roderick Strong and Michael Elgin in an 80 minute Elimination match. This was the best match I've ever seen in Greensboro and I've seen a lot of them. The order of elimination was Benjamin, one Briscoe, Haas, the other Briscoe, Generico, Elgin, and Strong. This was an incredible main that built to a fever pitch with all eight outside the ring going at it for nearly 10 minutes and they did this twice. One crazy spot saw Strong throw Edwards off the top turnbuckle through a table.
All seats were fantastic. If you didn't like this show, you don't like Wrestling. I can't wait for their return.
2011 - CHIKARA held their third and final Joshimania event in New York City. Mike Johnson filed the following live report:
CHIKARA results from Joshimania Night Three at the Highline Ballroom in New York City, which is an awesome intimate venue to watch a show. This was the fourth show I'd seen in three days (live coverage was out of the question for this one due to the set-up of the venue) and was damn near perfect, building fluidly.
As a company, CHIKARA undertook a hell of an expensive outing this weekend. For myself and for fans who loved watching tapes of All Japan Women, you couldn't have asked for a nicer blessing. I can't even begin to mathematically account for the cost of the visas, flights, etc. involved but the promotion certainly deserves a lot support and appreciation for trying to do something classy and unique that might never be attempted again here in the States.
Onto the results:
*Los Ice Creams defeated Dasher Hatfield & Saturyne. Hatfield was supposed to team with Sugar Dunkerton, but he wasn't there. They did a comedy bit where they pulled a mystery partner out of a hat. They pulled Kwang and Kelly Kelly's name, then pulled Saturyne's name. Out came a masked athletic woman who they said was making her CHIKARA debut. This was a really good match with some fun comedy. If Saturyne was working her first match, she was damn good.
*GAMI defeated Portia Perez. Both are heels. This was another really good match. I've loved Perez' work in SHIMMER for years so it was awesome to finally see her work in person.
*Brodie Lee defeated Ultramantis Black Lee played total evil monster heel, Bruiser Brody style, including chasing ring announcer Gavin Loudspeaker into the crowd and forcing him to take a nasty looking fall into the first row. He was awesome in the role. At one point, they brawled onto the stage, where Lee drilled Mantis with a big boot. Some good near falls.
*In what was billed as her final U.S. appearance Toshie Uematsu & The Batiri (Obaryon, Kodama & Kobold) defeated Cherry and The Colony's Fire Ant, Soldier Ant & Green Ant. Another good match with some great action.
*Mayumi Ozaki defeated Kaori Yoneyama. The story here was heel veteran Ozaki vs. Yoneyama, who was making her final appearance in the States. Good back and forth match.
*In a must see bout that was one of the best matches of the year, Aja Kong, Mio Shirai & Tsubasa Kuragaki defeated Manami Toyota, Sawako Shimono & Hanako Nakamori. This was incredible, reminding me of the atmosphere of the Michinoku Pro six man at the first ECW PPV or DGUSA six mans in ROH where the match was this incredible and perfectly built back and forth match with amazing near falls and actions. Kong was in all her glory here, just being the monster I've seen her be on tape for years. They teased Toyota vs. Kong early but made everyone wait for it. They did an incredible series of dives to the stage, which was great. Absolutely worth going out of your way to see. My cheeks hurt from smiling so much bell to bell.
*Sara Del Rey defeated Ayako Hamada in another great back and forth match. In a lot of ways, one of the main stories of the weekend was Del Rey, who is one of the best female workers in the States, having competitive bouts and beating some of the best international talents. Great stuff. Del Rey looked every bit of a top talent as you can imagine and all I kept thinking watching this was how ridiculous TNA was for how they utilized Hamada.
When the main event ended, all the joshi stars, who were at ringside for this, entered the ring for a final bow as the building chanted "We Love Joshi". Aja Kong looked happy as hell and was chanting along and smiling. They all basically said they wanted to come back. I sure as hell hope they do.
Notes and Thoughts:
I estimated the attendance around 400 fans. If nothing else, CHIKARA has tapped into a unique fan base that are smart but not so smart that they ruin the crowd for themselves and others around them. There's this tongue in cheek hipster feel to it with fans who are "in on the joke" and enjoy the silliness and the wrestling, similar to the old ECW fan base at the ECW Arena. It adds a really fun feel to the shows and presentation. It's absolutely something that everyone who has the opportunity to check out should.
In attendance were Jumping Bomb Angel Itsuki Yamazaki, Juggalo Championship Wrestling announcer Kevin Gill, NYWC's Alex Reynolds and Shane, LLUSA's Reby Sky, EVOLVE's Larry Dallas and DGUSA's Sal Hamaoui.
Gavin Loudspeaker, who is damn awesome in his role as the "rock and roll ring announcer" actually sang a song about joshi on his guitar before the show started, bringing out Yamazaki and name checking the Crush Girls and Bull Nakano among others in the song. The crowd was extremely respectful and loved it.
The joshi stars were selling signed photos for $15 and larger poster sized cards signed for $10. A photo with them or an autograph on your own item was $5. They also brought posters, programs and DVDs to sell.
The promotion noted they hoped to return to the venue in the Spring.
Most importantly, DVDs from all three nights of Joshimania will be available for purchase and immediate shippping within 48 hours at www.smartmarkvideo.com. As I noted earlier in the report, when a promotion takes the chance in bringing over such a unique experience as the Joshi talents, the only way they can make money and attempt such an undertaking again (or hopefully, a larger one) is if fans support them financially. If not, it's a failed experiment. So by all means, SUPPORT THESE SHOWS by ordering them. Philly was a very good show. I can't comment on MA but NYC was awesome.
More than that, be sure not to overlook CHIKARA, which is proving time and time again to be the promotion that attempts and succeeds again and again to be the type of enjoyable pro wrestling with a distinct flair that so many fans are complaining they cannot find anymore. Well, not only can you find it, but they have done an amazing job of making CHIKARA this unique Ellis Island where anyone internationally can arrive and help create this incredible melting pot of action. Mike Quackenbush and company should be applauded for what they've created, not flying under the radar or dismissed as the promotion with the masked guys. Kudos to all involved in every aspect of CHIKARA.
2011 - Former WWE Tough Enough competitor and Miss USA Rimah Fakih was arrested in Michigan on suspicion of drunk driving. While she has denied the arrest, her attorney confirmed it to the Detroit Free Press.
2012 - Tammy Sytch asked the Judge overseeing her case in Connecticut to modify the order of protection her ex-boyfriend took out against her, on the basis that she needs to spend time with him to settle their personal problems. The Judge denied that request. The relationship later ended.
2012 - WWE announced that WWE champion CM Punk underwent "emergency knee surgery today." The surgery was legitimate.
2012 - The mansion Stu Hart ran Stampede Wrestling from, trained and tortured wrestlers in the infamous "Dungeon" and raised his family has been designated a "heritage site", the equivalent of landmark designation, and will be preserved for future generations. The home is being given that distinction due to its unique structure as well as its importance in local culture.
According to his autobiography "Lord of the Ring", Stu Hart purchased the mansion in 1951. It had originally been used as a home for orphans.
Calgary Mayor Naheed Nensi commented in a statement, "It is, you know, in a city that has a short history as we do. It's important to recognize what we do have and I understand that the current owners are completely on board with that designation."
The mansion was sold in 2004 and renovated. The agreement came with a re-zoning approval that will see additional homes built on the property.
In his WWE Hall of Fame speech, Bret Hart talked lovingly of his youth growing up on the property with colorful wrestlers visiting and Ted the Wrestling Bear hibernating under the porch, licking off ice cream the Hart children let drip onto their toes.
2013 - WWE broadcast NXT. Richard Trionfo filed the following TV report:
Last week, Antonio Cesaro was asked about William Regal’s action last week. He tells William not to stick his nose in his business . . . sunshine. Leo Kruger enters and he thanks Antonio for what he did to him. He took him to a place he has not been for a long time. Leo has a proposition for him. He says that he could be a ‘Real American’. He says that he has a match with Sami Zayn and he knows that Antonio has a past with Sami.
Antonio says that he has an idea. He will talk to Zeb about becoming a ‘Real American’ if Leo does something for him. He whispers something in his ear and Antonio leaves.
We saw Sami Zayn and Adrian Neville battle for the chance to face Bo Dallas for the NXT Title. Now that Adrian Neville has earned that shot at Bo Dallas, will he capitalize on it or will Bo find another way to extend his title reign.
We are in Winter Park, Florida and your announcers are Byron ‘The Gator who does not throw up’ Saxton, Alex ‘Flutie Flakes’ Riley, and Renee ‘The Real Diva of WWE’ Young.
Match Number One: Paige versus Natalya for the NXT Women’s Title
They both shake hands before locking up. Natalya with a side head lock take down and Paige with a head scissors and Natalya escapes. Paige with a side head lock take down and Natalya with a head scissors and Paige escapes. Natalya with a double leg take down and she works on the leg. Paige with an arm bar and wrist lock. Natalya with a reversal into a back drop and she applies an arm bar.
Paige with a head butt and O’Connor Roll for a near fall. Paige with a jackknife cover but Natalya bridge and gets a near fall with a back slide. Paige blocks a kick but Natalya takes Paige down and applies a version of the Haas of Pain. Paige with a side head lock. Natalya with a side head lock take down.
Paige with a rollup for a near fall. Natalya with a shoulder tackle and a rollup for a near fall. Natalya tries for the Sharpshooter but Paige gets to the ropes and Natalya has to release the hold. Paige goes to the floor and we go to commercial.
We are back and Natalya is sent into the turnbuckles and Paige with punches to Natalya. Paige chokes and stomps Natalya in the corner. Paige with a near fall. Paige with a reverse chin lock. Paige sends Natalya to the mat and she gets another near fall. Paige with an abdominal stretch on Natalya and she gets in a few shots to the midsection to add more pressure.
Natalya with a reversal and she gets in a few shots to the midsection. Natalya picks up one of Paige’s legs to add more pressure. Paige with a hip toss to escape. Paige slams Natalya’s head into the bottom turnbuckle and then she stomps her in the corner. Paige with a kick to Natalya while Natalya is on the apron and then she hangs Natalya over the ropes and connects with knees.
Natalya with kicks to Paige. Both women go for a cross body and both women are down. Paige misses a leg drop and Natalya with a clothesline and kick followed by a slap and suplex. Natalya with a Michinoku Driver for a near fall. Paige with a kick but Natalya hits the discus clothesline. Natalya gets a near fall.
Natalya gets Paige set up for the Sharpshooter and she locks it in but Paige is a few feet from the ropes but Natalya pulls Paige into the center of the ring. Paige crawls into the corner and Paige rolls through and sends Natalya into the turnbuckles.
Paige struggles to get to her feet while Natalya is down in the corner. Paige holds her leg while Natalya holds her neck. They both get back to their feet and Paige hits the Paige Turner for the three count.
Winner: Paige
After the match, Natalya and Paige hug before Natalya raises Paige’s arm.
We go to Alexander Rusev and Lana. She tells Alexander something and Tyler Breeze enters. He thanks Alexander for the help last week. He says that Kassius is a total ugo and a fatty. Lana cuts off Tyler and she says that Mr. Rusev appreciates his gracious services and he can go.
Tyler says that he is going to invite Lana and Alexander to something, but she tells him to leave. Lana tells Alexander to crush Kassius Ohno on his way to the NXT Title.
We go to commercial.
We are back and Mojo Rawley is in the interview area with Dan Avone. Dan asks Mojo if he is as hyped as he was when he debuted. Mojo says that he always stays hyped. He is going to be NXT Champion someday and then he will be on Raw and Smackdown.
Sylvester Lefort and Scott Dawson enter and Sylvester will be the one to take him to the top to make a lot of money.
Mojo says that Sylvester is the one who is shorting Scott on his paychecks every week. Mojo tells Sylvester that he saw people like him when he was playing football. He is not helping Scott, he is hurting Scott’s career.
Scott tells Mojo that he will not talk about them like that. He says that Frenchie has been looking out for him, even if every once in a while the checks are not signed or a little late.
Sylvester makes his excuses for any problems.
Scott says that he has an idea. Why not have a match between the two of them next week.
Mojo accepts the challenge.
Before Aiden English’s opponent can be introduced, Aiden interrupts and he sings for the people of the NXT Arena.
Match Number Two: Aiden English versus Anonymous Wrestler
They lock up and English reverses a wrist lock. After a reversal, English has to get to the ropes to get the hold released. English with a side head lock and he pulls his opponent down with a pull of the hair. English with a kick and running neck breaker followed by forearms to the back of the neck.
English with a suplex followed the Director’s Cut for the three count.
Winner: Aiden English
After the match, English demands his spotlight and he gives everyone an encore. Roses are thrown into the ring to show the crowd’s appreciation of English’s work.
Antonio Cesaro makes his way to the stage and he has something to say.
Antonio says that he came out this week to apologize personally to Byron Saxton. He says that he lost his temper and his cool last week. He would like Byron to join him on the stage so he can give him an apology.
Saxton gets up from his position at the announce table and he joins Antonio on the stage.
Antonio offers him his hand and Byron eventually shakes it. Antonio says that he is truly sorry about last week. He thought Byron would have known better not to touch the flag, but he lost his temper. He apologizes in five languages and he asks Byron to accept his apology.
Byron says thank you.
Antonio says that as an example of his goodwill, he will let Byron join him in a ‘We The People’. Byron does not show a lot of enthusiasm for the ‘We The People’ so he asks Byron if he thinks this is a joke.
Cesaro pulls Saxton’s jacket down to trap his arms and then he grabs Saxton. Antonio asks Byron where Regal is and Byron says that he does not know. Cesaro slaps Saxton in the face.
We see comments from Sami Zayn after last week’s match against Adrian Neville. He says that the better man won tonight. It is hard to come so close to that title and then get close to that opportunity again, only to come up short. If it is going to be anyone, he is happy that it is Adrian. If it is Adrian or Bo, he will be coming for the winner.
Leo Kruger attacks Sami Zayn and he tells him Tata as we go to commercial.
We are back and Tom Phillips has taken Byron’s spot at the announce table.
We see footage from February when Tyson Kidd was attacked by Leo Kruger.
Match Number Three: Tyson Kidd versus Leo Kruger
Kidd with an elbow and kicks followed by a corkscrew drop kick and a back heel kick. Kidd with a drop kick to the temples and then he stomps on Kruger. Kruger tries to get to the floor but Kidd pulls him back in. Kruger kicks Kidd away and Kruger punches and kicks Kidd while the referee tries to pull him out of the corner.
Kidd with kicks and a suplex for a near fall. Kruger gets to the ropes to avoid a Sharpshooter. Kidd with a swinging neck breaker for a near fall. Kidd with forearms and chops to Kruger. Kidd with shoulders to the midsection but Kruger with a knee to stop Kidd and then he chokes Kidd in the corner.
Kruger with a European uppercut and kicks to Kidd. Kruger with an Irish whip but Kidd gets his boot up. Kruger grabs the leg and he drops down to hyperextend the knee. Kruger kicks the back of the leg to take Kidd down.
We go to commercial.
We are back and Kruger continues to work on the injured knee and he has his knee in Kidd’s thigh. Kidd with punches to try to get Kruger to release the hold. Kruger tries for an atomic drop to the knee but Kidd with a sunset flip for a near fall. Kidd with a backslide for a near fall. Kruger with an uppercut and he gets a near fall.
Kruger drops the knee to the mat and he kicks Kidd. Kruger with a dragon screw leg whip and Kidd backs into the opposite corner to try to stop the attack by Kruger. Kidd has trouble getting back to his feet and Kruger with punches. Kruger with a Sharpshooter and he applies it.
Sami Zayn appears at ringside and Kruger loses his concentration on the match and Kruger releases the hold. Kidd with a rollup for the three count.
Winner: Tyson Kidd
We go to commercial.
We are back and we are told that Sami Zayn will face Leo Kruger next week on NXT.
We get comments from Hunico and Camacho about beating The Ascension. Hunico says that they are from the barrio so they have never been given anything. They will win the titles when they face The Ascension next week.
Match Number Four: Adrian Neville versus Bo Dallas for the NXT Championship
They lock up and Neville with a wrist lock and he works on the arm. Bo with a reversal but Neville with a reversal of his own. Neville gets a near fall and Bo rolls to the apron. Bo gets back into the ring. Bo with a kick and forearm to Neville followed by an elbow.
Bo with an Irish whip but Neville floats over and he hits a cross body for a near fall. Neville with a drop kick for a near fall. Dallas rolls to the floor to stop Neville’s momentum.
Bo gives himself a motivational speech before re-entering the ring. Bo with a front face lock and Neville backs him into the corner. Bo with a forearm when the referee was out of position on the break. Bo with another forearm and he gets a near fall. The middle turnbuckle in the corner is accidentally exposed.
Bo with knees and a cravate on Neville. Bo with a knee and hard Irish whip to Neville. Bo with another Irish whip and a clothesline in the corner followed by a bulldog for a near fall. Bo with a slam and he drops knees to the chest and Bo gets a near fall. Bo pulls down his knee pad and he goes to the turnbuckles and he goes for a knee drop but Neville moves and Bo favors his knee.
Neville with kicks to the knee and Neville with a flying forearm or two. Neville with a back heel kick and drop kick to the temple for a near fall. Bo rolls to the floor. Neville with a corkscrew plancha onto Bo. Neville rolls Bo back into the ring but Bo kicks out at two.
Neville with a slam and he goes to the turnbuckles for Red Arrow but Bo rolls to the floor. Neville decides to visit Bo on the floor for a cross body onto Bo and both men are down.
The referee starts his count and both men have trouble getting back to their feet. Neville returns to the ring at nine but Bo is still on the floor and the referee calls for the bell.
Winner: Adrian Neville (by count out)
We go to credits.
2013 - WWE broadcast Main Event. Richard Trionfo filed the following TV report:
We are in Tulsa, Oklahoma and your announcers are Josh ‘I Miss Jim Ross in Oklahoma’ Mathews and The Miz.
Match Number One: Goldust (with Cody Rhodes) versus Ryback (with Curtis Axel)
They get face to face and Goldust gasps in Ryback’s face. They push each other and Goldust with a punch and Ryback backs into the corner. Ryback with a kick and forearm to the back followed by a punch. Goldust with a back elbow and Ryback retreats to the corner and Axel discusses strategy with him.
Ryback with a kick and punches followed by a chop. Ryback with forearms to the back followed by a head butt. Goldust with an arm drag followed by a drop kick that sends Ryback to the floor. Axel checks on Ryback and Goldust with a kick from the apron.
Goldust drives Ryback’s arm into the ringside barrier. Goldust with punches and then he drops a few knees to the arm and follows with an arm bar. Ryback with an Irish whip but Ryback misses a splash and Goldust with an arm drag and arm bar. Goldust continues to work on the arm and he returns to the arm bar.
Ryback backs Goldust into the corner and Ryback with shoulders. Ryback punches Goldust and kicks him in the corner. The referee warns Ryback in the corner. Ryback with a slam and then he misses an elbow drop. Goldust with a kick and punch. Ryback with an Irish whip but Goldust with an elbow and then he goes to the turnbuckles for a cross body for a near fall.
Ryback with a knee and hard Irish whip and Goldust is down. Ryback with a flying shoulder tackle and Goldust goes to the floor.
We go to commercial.
We are back and Ryback with a reverse chin lock on Goldust. Goldust with punches and he blocks a hip toss and Goldust with a rollup for a near fall. Ryback with a clothesline and Goldust goes to the apron. Goldust with a punch and he tries to suplex Ryback to the floor but Ryback with a delayed vertical suplex as he walks around the ring and he gets a near fall.
Ryback with a kick to the back followed by a waist lock. Goldust stomps on the foot and he connects with some elbows to escape. Ryback with punches followed by an Irish whip but Goldust with a power slam and both men are down.
Goldust with clotheslines followed by a reverse atomic drop and bulldog. Goldust with a drop down uppercut but Ryback tries for a spinebuster and Goldust escapes. Goldust with a spinebuster of his own for a near fall. Goldust clotheslines Ryback over the top rope to the floor. Goldust with a pescado onto Ryback.
Goldust punches Ryback and when Axel tries to interfere, Cody takes care of Curtis. Ryback returns to the ring and he kicks Goldust when he re-enters the ring. Goldust with the Final Cut but Axel breaks up the cover and the referee calls for the bell.
Winner: Goldust (by disqualification)
After the match, Cody punches Axel, sending him to the floor. Cody with Beautiful Disaster on Ryback and Ryback goes to the floor. Axel tries for a sneak attack but Cody sees it coming and Goldust back drops Axel onto Ryback on the floor.
We take a look back at what happened between Kane and Daniel Bryan on Raw and Daniel’s match for TLC.
We go to commercial.
Match Number Two: Jinder Mahal and Drew McIntyre versus Jimmy Uso and Jey Uso
Mahal and Jimmy start things off and Mahal with a side head lock. Mahal with a shoulder tackle to Jimmy and Jimmy with leap frogs followed by a back elbow. Jimmy with a chop and punch. Jey tags in and he hits a flying clothesline. Jey with a clothesline and both men go over the top rope to the floor but Drew makes the blind tag. Drew with a flying boot while Jey rolls Mahal back in.
Drew rolls Jey back in and he gets a near fall. Jinder tags back in and he kicks Jey. Mahal with boots to Jey and he chokes Jey in the ropes. Drew tags back in and they drop Jey on the ropes. Drew with forearms to the back while Jey is on the ropes. Drew with boots to Jey. Jey with punches and a chop.
Drew with a boot to the head and he gets a near fall. Drew with an arm bar and chin lock. Jey with punches and he hits a float over DDT and both men are down. Jinder and Jimmy tag in and Jimmy with clotheslines followed by a savate kick. Jinder with a kick and Jimmy with a Samoan drop. Jimmy with a running butt splash attempt but Jinder moves. Jimmy with a savate kick for a near fall.
Drew is sent to the floor by Jey. Jey with a pescado onto Drew on the floor. Jinder punches Jimmy in the corner and he puts Jimmy on the top turnbuckle. Jinder tries for a superplex but Jimmy blocks it and he knocks Jinder to the mat with head butts. Jimmy with a superfly splash for the three count.
Winners: Jimmy Uso and Jey Uso
We go to commercial.
We are back with a look at the contract signing from Monday night.
It is time for the ColeFire Chat with Triple H. This week they talk about whether the match at TLC is the biggest match in WWE history. Hunter says the World Title was always held by Harley Race and Ric Flair, men who were known for wrestling in the ring. When he became the World Champion, it meant he was the best.
Michael brings up the fact that we are where we are today because of Hunter. Michael reminds Hunter that he was handed the World Title by Eric Bischoff. Hunter says that Bischoff did it because Brock Lesnar was the Undisputed Champion and he refused to defend against Hunter. By default that made him the champion and Eric did one of the few genius decisions and he made Hunter the World Champion. That title was the most prestigious at one time.
Michael brings up the Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match at TLC. He wants to know if this is the biggest match in history. Hunter says that it is one of the biggest matches and probably the biggest of this generation. There will only be one champion. You will be ‘THE’ Champion. It will be a moment that will be remembered forever.
Hunter guarantees that we will have one champion after TLC and the King of Kings will crown the Champion of Champions.
R Truth walks in the back as we go to commercial.
We are back and we get a rap from R Truth.
Damien Sandow comes out and he tells them to turn off the music and for everyone to keep their mouths shut because the future Intercontinental Champion has something to say. The future face of the WWE has something to say. You don’t like those two statements because they are true. Speaking of ‘truth’. R Truth will find out how playing to these card carrying halfwits will get you nowhere.
You’re Welcome
Match Number Three: R Truth versus Damien Sandow
They lock up and Truth with a side head lock. Truth holds on when Sandow tries to send him off the ropes. Truth with a backslide for a near fall. Truth with a side head lock take down. Sandow with a knee to the midsection and then Truth with some dancing and a hip toss.
Sandow with a split and then he goes for the dancing and spinning leaping leg drop for a near fall. Sandow sends Truth into the turnbuckles and he kicks Truth. Sandow with a forearm to the back followed by knees to the back. The referee warns Sandow. Sandow with a snap mare and elbow drop for a near fall. Sandow with a reverse chin lock. Truth with a jawbreaker to escape.
Truth with a leg lariat and it staggers Sandow. Truth clotheslines Sandow over the top rope to the floor and we go to commercial.
We are back and Truth with an arm bar. Sandow with forearms and then he goes to the floor and he wants a time out. Sandow with a forearm to Truth and then he sends him into the ring post. They return to the ring and Sandow with a near fall followed by a knee drop and another near fall. Sandow with a reverse chin lock.
Truth with punches to Sandow but Sandow with a back elbow and he gets a near fall. Sandow with a hard Irish whip. Sandow with another hard Irish whip followed by an elbow drop to the back. Sandow with a forearm and then he runs his boot laces across the face.
Truth with a punch and Sandow with a kick to the head followed by punches and elbows to the midsection for a near fall. Sandow with a quarter nelson and chin lock. Truth punches Sandow and Sandow with a head butt. Sandow with an Irish whip but Truth with a boot and clothesline. Both men are down.
Truth punches Sandow and he misses a flying forearm when Sandow ducks. Sandow sends Truth shoulder first into the post and then Sandow with a front face lock and knees to the midsection. Sandow with a side Russian leg sweep followed by the Elbow of Disdain and he gets a near fall.
Sandow with an Irish whip but he misses a charge into the corner and he hits the ring post with his shoulder. Truth gets a second wind and he connects with clotheslines. Truth with an elbow and kick. Truth with a sit out gourdbuster for a near fall. Truth goes for a scissors kick but Sandow moves. Sandow tries for You’re Welcome but Truth with an arm drag.
Truth with a scissors kick for a near fall. Truth sets for the suplex into a stunner but Sandow lands on his feet. Sandow kicks Truth in the back of the leg and then he hits You’re Welcome for the three count.
Winner: Damien Sandow
We go to credits.
2014 - Former WWE champion CM Punk returned for a second week in a row on Colt Cabana's "Art of Wrestling" podcast. During the conversation, the apology Vince McMahon gave about the timing of Punk's termination from WWE - which came on his wedding day, as Punk revealed the previous week - was brought up.
While discussing how other wrestlers may believe they know what's going on in his head and that he might return after a few years off, Punk's responded is, "I see their point of view, but Motherf***er, they didn't fire you on your wedding day. They purposely and maliciously tried to ruin a day that is supposed to be special to everybody. It's your wedding day."
Punk said he didn't want to hear it was coincidence or that, "the lawyers didn't talk to talent relations." Punk said he spoke to Hunter on 6/11. On 6/13, he received a Fedex overnight with a document that was dated 6/12. He said that was the timeline.
Punk said his wife AJ Lee asked for that time off so she could get married and go on her honeymoon. The week after the honeymoon, she was back on TV. Punk said he doesn't want to hear it was a coincidence.
Punk then said he will address the apology from Vince McMahon. Punk said if it was sincere, "You wouldn't have used it as a publicity stunt on Austin's podcast. You have my phone number. You have my address. You can show up when you are a ten minute f***ing drive from my house and apologize to me like a man."
Punk said that's the timeline. He was sick and tired and sick and hurt and burnt out and he walked and, "I can do that because I'm an independent f***ing contractor."
Punk said he was suspended and no one contacted him to tell him he was unsuspended and they wanted him at TV. He said he got those "we need you at TV" type of calls the day after his elbow surgery and after walking out of knee surgery. Punk said, "They could do it then, so where's my f***ing phone call?"
He said he was suspended and maybe in those two months, "I'd be feeling better or I'd come to my f***ing senses, but nobody ever found out because no one ever reached out."
Punk also commented, indirectly, on Vince McMahon saying Punk's communication skills were possibly the issue. Punk explained that every six months, there was a new head of Talent Relations in WWE. "There were all these people who had no business" being in that position. He said they were the head of Talent Relations and "you are supposed to relate to the talents but no one knew how to talk to these people."
Punk said he's a wrestler and the head of the HR department doesn't know anything about taking bumps, what a payday is or anything else.
Punk said, "It was a publicity stunt. You are sorry. Great. Be a man and call me."
Later on Punk said he didn't want his podcast appearance to turn into a back and forth. He said he isn't replying anf further and this is the close of a chapter in his life. He wanted to get things off his chest. Cabana said the appearances were meant to be the ultimate closure.
Punk said People have asked him if he accepts the apology. He commented, "I appreciate the sentiment but that was not a real apology. He knew about it. He knew about it since June. Why didn't he apologize in June if he really felt bad about it? He wanted to wait until a TV camera was in front of him, so he could cut a damage control, and 'Oh Gosh, I'm really sorry.' Well, if you really were and if you really wanted to talk to me, you would have responded after I got ahold of everybody in the office and you would have said, 'You're unsuspended. We need you back on TV' like you did when I was walking out of the hospital still anesthetized."
To listen to the entire interview on Colt Cabana's Art of Wrestling podcast, you can at soundcloud.com/coltcabana, you can go to iTunes.com and subscribe to Cabana's podcast at this link to get the episode.
2014 - WWE NXT ran Orlando, Florida. Andrew Twiss filed the following results:
Here are the results from NXT Live at the Orlando Armory on Thursday 12/4/14.
Your ring announcers for the evening are Jojo and Devin Taylor
- Before the show, Rich Brennan came out to hype up the crowd and announced that Corey Graves would be making a major announcement about his future at the NXT Takeover Pre-show.
- Wesley Blake and Buddy Murphy defeated Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder. A solid and fun opening match.
- CJ Parker defeated Tye Dillinger. Dillinger is still doing his gimmick where he comes out to the ring dancing and strutting around. The crowd liked it, but I'm not sure it is a long term solution to getting him over. Match started real slow with each guy trying to do different rolls and cartwheels and outdo each other. It went on far too long. The rest of the match was just ok.
- Mojo Rawley came out for a promo with his arm still in a sling. He said he is coming back soon, and that when he gets the sling off, he's coming back with a new attitdue and a new focus.
- Marcus Louis defeated Colin Cassady. Pretty meh match. Marcus has really good crazy facial expressions, but his in ring work is still a work in progress.
- WWE NXT Tag Team champions The Lucha Dragons (Sin Cara and Kalisto) defeated The Vaudevillains in a non title match. Real fun match.
- Bull Dempsey defeated Solomon Crowe. Bull looked really good here. Solid match.
- Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch defeated Carmella and Bayley. Decent match. Carmella had a few rough moments. Sasha is awesome as a heel.
- Baron Corbin defeated Tyler Breeze. Decent match saw Baron on defense for most of the match.
- Sami Zayn defeated WWE NXT champion Adrian Neville, Finn Balor, and Viktor in a non-title Fatal 4 Way. Awesome match. It was nice to see Sami and Neville at an Orlando Armory card again. Lots of cool spots, match had great flow, and was just a joy to watch. Zayn took the belt after the match and told Neville that the title will be his in one week.
Notes:
- Meet and greet before the show included: The Vaudevillains, CJ Parker, Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch. Aiden English was having fun with the crowd, while Sasha was heeling everybody. She wouldn't even sign for the crowd, instead choosing to use a specially decorated stamp.
- Line of the night: Rich Brennan (while trying to hype the crowd up before the show): " That was a lackluster cheer." Aiden English: "That's beacause you're lackluster."
- Show was completely sold out and was selling standing room only tickets.
- NXT will return to the Orlando Armory on January 31st.
2015 - WWE NXT ran Largo, Florida. Ken Monroe filed the following results:
Levis Valenzuela beat Angelo Dawkins.
Chad Gable and Jason Jordan beat The Vaudevillains.
Nia Jax beat Tough Enough's Daria.
Hugo Knox beat Tino Sabatelli.
Bull Dempsey beat Sawyer Fulton.
Asuka and Carmella beat Emma and Alexa Bliss.
Apollo Crews beat Noah Kekoa.
Cameron beat Peyton Royce.
Finn Balor teamed with Enzo Amore and Colin Cassady to beat Tye Dillinger and The Mechanics.
2016 - RIng of Honor ran a TV taping at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA. Arizona John filed the following results:
-The Tempura Boys (Sho and Yo) defeated Coast To Coast (Leon St. Giovanni and Shaheem Ali) in a YouTube exclusive
Episode One
1. Christopher Daniels defeated Mark Briscoe in a Decade of Excellence Tournament first-round match.
2. Lio Rush defeated Caprice Coleman.
3. Bobby Fish, Kyle O’Reilly, and Dalton Castle defeated Adam Cole and The Young Bucks.
4. Deonna Purrazzo defeated Sumie Sakai.
5. Jay Briscoe defeated BJ Whitmer in a Decade of Excellence Tournament first-round match.
Episode Two
1. Beer City Bruiser and Silas Young defeated Alex Reynolds and Jon Silver. After the match there was an interaction with Bull James, who ended up being frog splashed by the Bruiser, with Silas Young following up with Misery.
2. The Kingdom defeated Will Ferrara, Cheeseburger, and Joey Daddiego.
3. Chris Sabin defeated Colt Cabana in a Decade of Excellence Tournament first-round match.
The Young Bucks came out cut a promo during which Broken Matt Hardy’s Vanguard 1 interrupted and they found a way to superkick it.
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