Howard Finkel, the most iconic ring-announcer in WWE history, has passed away. He was 69-years-old. News of Finkel’s passing was announced by WWE today.
“WWE is saddened to learn that Howard Finkel has passed away at age 69,” a WWE press release reads. “WWE extends its condolences to Finkel’s family, friends and fans.”
Finkel was first hired to work for Vince McMahon Sr. and the WWWF in 1975. He would eventually become the company’s longest-tenured employee.
Finkel was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2009. Others inducted with Finkel that year included Steve Austin, Ricky Steamboat, Bill Watts, Terry & Dory Funk, the Von Erichs, and Koko B. Ware. Gene Okerlund was the one to induct “the Fink.”
Howard Finkel Passes Away At Age 69
In addition to being WWE’s top ring announcer for decades, Finkel was also an invaluable employee in the WWE offices.
Finkel was reported to have suffered a stroke last year and was in ill-health. He did appear backstage for a WWE event at Madison Square Garden later that year, however. Jerry Lawler discussed Finkel’s health on an episode of his podcast.
“I just heard not long ago that Howard is in really, really bad health,” Lawler said. “Not good at all. He may have had a stroke. I’m not sure but I just know that he’s not doing well.”
Reactions to Howard Finkel’s Passing
The wrestling world is reeling from the death of Howard Finkel. He was the voice of several generations and was a dear friend to many behind the scenes.
Howard Finkle was on Team Hogan through the good and bad times,even when I was on the outs Howard would call on a consistent basis to tell me to always keep my head up,it was” never say never” and “you and Vince will work it out”,my good friend RIP,I love you 4LifeHH
Loss of any kind is not easy. We feel some, if not all difficult emotions. Feel them, face them, don’t lock them up, but do so with a brave sense of accountability. All of us are tested now more than ever. Stay in touch and in tune with you, try to find lessons in any hardship.
In what has already been a tough week for our @WWE family, today we lost our 1st ever employee and WWE Hall of Famer, @howardfinkel. Howard’s voice is iconic & recognized by generations of fans. He will be missed. #RIPHowardFinkel Thank you for everything. ?????
Rest in Peace Howard Finkel. Greatest ring announcer of all time. Historian and walking wrestling encyclopedia. Hall of Famer. Loyal. Great friend. Love you Fink. pic.twitter.com/tqvVq6gMeR
Howard was the best. It’s that simple. I’ll never forget the last few times I saw him…the excitement he still had for the industry, the genuine concern he showed when asking about how my family was doing despite his own declining health…
Fink was not only an indelible part of my childhood but he couldn’t have been sweeter to me any time I saw him backstage. I’m grateful to have known him.
Howard Finkel was a great friend and mentor to me. I was so blessed to be able to look to him for guidance, honesty and the occasional bit of humor. He spoke with kindness, and always had a sparkle in his eye when speaking about our industry. Thank you for everything Howard. ?
You weren’t someone until you heard Howard announce you. A championship win didn’t feel real until you heard him say “and the new!” His voice, his personality, and his positivity will be sorely missed. Thank you for everything…especially your friendship. https://t.co/CYSPt6vnvU
All Elite Wrestling’s Cody Rhodes has shared his thoughts on WWE’s Cesaro, calling the SmackDown Superstar the “most underrated guy on the planet.”
Cody shared his thoughts on Twitter after seeing a fan share a photo of Cody mid-moonsault. He then responded to another fan who complimented his December 26, 2013 Steel Cage matchup with his brother, Goldust. The duo teamed up against The Real Americans, Jack Swagger and Cesaro. During that Madison Square Garden Live Event, Cody Rhodes would moonsault off the top of the cage onto Cesaro.
“The American Nightmare” stated how that was a good match before praising Cesaro. He wrote how “Claudio is the most underrated guy on the planet(and he’s still highly rated!). Dude can do anything. Like a PWG Nikita Koloff.”
Good match. Claudio is the most underrated guy on the planet(and he’s still highly rated!). Dude can do anything. Like a PWG Nikita Koloff. https://t.co/tuQtcWtoRF
Cody Rhodes recently advanced in the TNT Championship Tournament being held on AEW Dynamite. He defeated rival Shawn Spears. He will now meet the winner of Inner Circle member Sammy Guevara and Darby Allin in the semi-finals of the tournament. During last night’s episode of Dynamite, Lance Archer defeated Colt Cabana on the other side of the bracket to advance.
Cesaro, meanwhile, recently enjoyed a successful WrestleMania victory. He opened up the two-day event during Night One’s Pre-Show, defeating Drew Gulak.
Christian caught up with WWE Hall of Famer Booker T on his podcast, The Hall of Fame. During the interview, he was asked if Edge’s return gave him any hope of a comeback of his own. Christian explained how he and Edge suffered two very different injuries. He added how he has accomplished all he ever wanted to do in WWE, besides headlining WrestleMania. He then confessed that he doesn’t believe he would be cleared to compete, even if he wanted to.
“I’ve pretty much accomplished everything I’ve ever wanted to do, except main event WrestleMania, and let’s be honest – how many people actually get a chance to do that?”
Christian continued, “It’s one of those… I’m 46 years old, you know… and I had some concussion issues. It’s just a matter of… you know, I don’t see it happening. I’m medically disqualified. I just don’t… I’m not sure how I would ever get cleared.”
Christian’s WWE Legacy
Christian is a former World Heavyweight Champion in WWE. He is also a WWE Grand Slam Champion and has won gold in other companies including TNA. He was forced to retire after suffering a concussion during a Fatal 4 Way matchup on the March 24, 2014 episode of Monday Night RAW.
Although victorious in that matchup, Christian would never be able to capitalize on the Intercontinental Championship opportunity the won granted him due to the concussion.
Discussion: Would you want to see Christian come out of retirement for another match?
WWE Hall of Famer Booker T has taken issue with Ronda Rousey’s recent negative comments regarding pro wrestling and the WWE Universe.
Speaking on his Hall of Famepodcast with Brad Gilmore, Booker T explained why her words irked him. He noted how Rousey was accepted into the pro wrestling world and the other women in the Locker Room. For her to have said such derogatory comments is like a “slap in the face to each and every one of those ladies that went out there and had to work with her.”
Booker T argued, “To slap all those ladies in the face that made her look so good after receiving that check from this ‘fake’ business, a check that, like I said, being put in a position where she was the women’s champion, she was in the main event at WrestleMania, that speaks volumes.”
Booker T highlighted how several women in the locker room work exceptionally hard to get a spot like Rousey enjoyed. He pointed to Nia Jax, explaining how she has worked hard but doesn’t receive the same kind of praise Rousey did. “[…] then someone walks from outside inside to this world and get it. It really is a slap in the face. and I just think Ronda needs to apologize first and foremost.”
Rousey claimed that she wouldn’t be returning to pro wrestling in a full-time capacity during a recent podcast interview. She explained that this was due to ungrateful fans.
Jake “The Snake” Roberts has explained how his personal insecurities led him to make appearances on AEW Dynamite admits the coronavirus pandemic. He opened up about his decision during a recent video uploaded to DDP Yoga’s YouTube channel.
Reflecting on his choice to travel to Dynamite, Roberts admitted he feared that by missing one show, he wouldn’t be needed anymore. According to him, “I was so insecure. I had to go.”
DDP explained how he told Jake Roberts that he wouldn’t kick him out despite potentially exposing himself to the coronavirus. That being said, DDP stressed how he had a baby in the house and that his decision was putting other people at risk. If that continued, DDP would have no choice but to refuse Roberts entry.
“Whenever I went to Jacksonville, I took everything I had with me because I knew there was no coming back. No questions, I never asked Dallas to come back. I was staying out by the airport at a fine hotel, I had room service and I could go down to the restaurant and eat. I had a gym to work out in, a swimming pool—what the hell, I’ve got everything I need.”
Jake Roberts On Self-Isolating, Depression
Roberts admitted how the lack of people caused him to fall into a depression. The hotel shut the gym down and that his time in self-isolation affected him deeply:
“It hit me hard, I didn’t like what I was thinking. I wasn’t thinking about drinking or doing drugs, but I don’t think I was far from thinking about that. I just didn’t like the way I was feeling.”
Jake Roberts has since returned to DDP’s home and has been quarantining himself. He has been appearing on Dynamite in pre-recorded promo segments in support of Lance Archer.
Update: On Friday, April 17th, Jake Roberts provided an update on his condition. Roberts remains focused on staying positive and getting back into physical shape. He thanked All Elite Wrestling for supporting him 100%.
Out of quarantine working out and dieting. I will lose 30lbs. AEW have been totally awesome. They support me 100%. Gotta lot of love to give.@WNSource@WWE@DDPYoga
All Elite Wrestling announcer Jim Ross has offered some kind words of encouragement to the staff and Superstars who were recently released from WWE. Yesterday saw several in-ring talents and backstage personnel released from the company.
Taking to his Twitter account, Jim Ross wrote how it had been a “daunting day” for the pro wrestling industry. He then pleaded with them to understand that their release from WWE is not “the end.” Instead, Ross argued that they should embrace it as a new beginning.
He asked them to count the blessings they have in their lives and to persevere through this tough time. Ross then stressed how they should never give up.
Daunting day for our business. @WWE folks released please realize this is not the end but can be your new beginning.
WWE’s announced releases were allegedly made due to business changes forced by the current coronavirus impacting the world. A number of backstage personnel have also been furloughed during this time until the pandemic finally settles.
Several businesses and industries have been affected by COVID-19. Numerous other wrestling promotions have also been affected, with promotions worldwide being forced to cancel or reschedule shows from Ring of Honor to New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
Jim Ross has been self-isolating from unnecessary exposure as he is considered high-risk. This decision came after a lengthy discussion with AEW President Tony Khan. Despite this quarantining, Ross was able to provide pre-recorded vocal duties for this week’s Dynamite main event clash between Jon Moxley and Jake Hager.
Cody Rhodes uploaded a photo of Ryder’s WrestleMania 32 Ladder Match victory, where he won the Intercontinental Championship. He accompanied it with a heartfelt caption, highlighting Ryder’s extensive WWE career, his accomplishments, and his tenacity and perseverance.
Cody wrote how “In a world of weekend warriors and “play wrestlers”, this dude exudes passion and drive for pro-wrestling like no other.”
He reflected on how Ryder would continually try to better himself whether it was his in-ring work or in molding “his body into such a specimen DRUG FREE with hard work and will.”
Cody then shared how he has a rule in wrestling. To him, if you have gotten over with the fans before, you can do it again. Cody stressed how this rule fully applies to Ryder. He noted how at only 34-years-old, Ryder’s best days are ahead of him. He reflected on how “future endeavors are limitless when you actually endeavor.”
Cody Rhodes On His Picture Choice
“The American Nightmare” then explained why he chose Ryder’s WrestleMania victory for the picture. Cody shared how that day was one of his with WWE. He wrote how it was a special moment to witness people erupt when Ryder claimed the title. Even more so when Ryder’s father jumped into the ring to embrace his son.
“Hearing Dolph coordinate for his father to come over the rails(meanwhile I was ass deep into a broken ladder and stuck but had the best seat in the house) and seeing father/son embrace, I thought I’d be jealous or bitter, but I was truly happy and proud for one of my peers. Congratulations my friend, and good luck!”
NJPW star Will Ospreay recently appeared on the Chris Van Vliet podcast/YouTube channel. The ‘Aerial Assassin’ discussed a number of topics from his recent career, including the move from the Juniors division to the Heavyweight class of the company.
Will Ospreay would talk about how the idea for the transition came together. With the Essex born star revealing that he initially pitched an idea to PROGRESS Wrestling, one of the top independent promotions in England.
Idea Pitched To PROGRESS
“I had an idea that I pitched to PROGRESS” Ospreay began. “And they didn’t go along with it. They had the ATLAS title at the time. and the ATLAS Title is a super heavyweight title so you have to be over 93 kilos. And at the time I was at 85kg. I was like, ‘I can make that, I’ve got the right height, I’m six foot.”
Will Ospreay would elaborate further, revealing how he hoped that the extra weight could pay dividends in Japan also. “Instead of focusing on putting that towards PROGRESS I thought maybe I should just start doing it anyway, just to see if there are any benefits. Because like everyone’s known I’ve always had neck problems, I’ve always like had this body pain. I was just like, I’m just gonna do it anyway to protect my body. In like a month and a half I shot to 90 kilos, just by eating. Not good stuff, just pizza! (laughs)”
Will Ospreay Asked If He Is ‘On The Gas’
Will Ospreay would then reveal that he started to get questions from others in the industry regarding his size. Due to the muscle mass that Ospreay had gained some were asking him if he was taking steroids, or ‘on the gas.’ “I just must have a good metabolism. So I just kept lifting and then every now and again, people just ask ‘are you on the gas?’ So I was like ‘NO! I wouldn’t know where to start stuff like that!’ So I’ve just been eating. I broke my ribs I think because my body put on so much mass. And then finally I did something where, like, I do it blindfolded do it all the time but my body kind of wasn’t prepared enough to do it so my body just buckled in on itself.”
Seth Rollins has addressed the “negativity and hostility” he has observed in the wake of yesterday’s WWE releases. “The Monday Night Messiah” took part in an Instagram Live session to share his thoughts with the WWE Universe.
Rollins Reacts To WWE Releases
Seth Rollins acknowledged how yesterday was a “difficult day for everyone.” He noted how if there was ever a time for everyone to unify and band together, “this is that moment.”
He added how now isn’t the right time to point fingers or attribute blame. Instead, it should have been a day of compassion, empathy, and understanding. “[…] to try and support each other, to pick each other up.” He stressed how that message is intended for everybody, not just the staff and Superstars who were released.
He then explained how it’s a great time for those who are fortunate enough to still have a job to work even harder “[…] to make sure that there’s a place for all those that had it worse today to come back to.” Seth Rollins noted how fans can rally around the idea that this is only temporary for those affected, and that those impacted will be able to bounce back whether it’s with WWE or another wrestling promotion.
“I think that if we start fighting among ourselves, it’s only going to make things worse. So, I just encourage everyone to try to come together on this, try to support each other, and lift each other up.”
The message received some flak from fans online. Seth Rollins acknowledged this in an exchange with talkSPORT’s Alex McCarthy, who brought some attention to the negative response. Rollins explained he understood where the anger and frustration was coming from and stated that it’s okay. He stated how it’s an emotional day for everyone and that some people just need to vent.
Despite it being a day of sadness and completion for him, Rollins added how it was also one of desire to help unify people and rally them behind the pro wrestling industry.
The April 15, 2020 episode of WWE NXT aired live on the USA Network from the Winter Park, Florida at Full Sail University.
The show was headlined by Matt Riddle and his new partner defending the NXT Tag Team Titles against The Undisputed Era.
WWE NXT Results (4/15)
Finn Balor def. Fabian Aichner
Xia Li def. Aliyah
Akira Tozawa def. Isaiah “Swerve” Scott
Tegan Nox def. Raquel Gonzalez
Dexter Lumis def. Tehuti Miles
NXT Tag Team Champions Matt Riddle & Timothy Thatcher def. The Undisputed Era
Here are the 6 takeaways from this week’s show:
Finn Balor Back In Action
Finn Balor in NXT
Former WWE NXT Champion Finn Balor battled Imperium’s Fabian Aichner in a singles match on this show.
As expected, it was a stiff back and forth affair with Balor rightfully so going over.
This is the latest development in the build of Balor eventually challenging NXT UK Champion WALTER for the strap. Originally plans had called for this championship bout to take place at NXT TakeOver: Tampa earlier this month.
However, that wasn’t meant to be as the event got canceled due to the coronavirus. WALTER is stuck in the UK and won’t be able to make it to the United States for quite some time.
Thus, it appears that WWE will do a slow build to this match. The only problem is the unknown timetable as to when WALTER will be able to make it to the United States.
Matt Riddle and his new partner defended the NXT Tag Team Titles against The Undisputed Era (Bobby Fish & Roderick Strong).
It turns out that Timothy Thatcher ended up serving as the new tag team partner for Matt Riddle to help him defend the NXT Tag Team Titles while Pete Dunne is on the sidelines.
WWE had NXT William Regal go on the Bump on Wednesday to announce the news. He also booked a title match that saw Riddle put up the titles to defend against The Undisputed Era.
This was a fun match and probably the best contest on the show from a work standpoint despite having no fans.
With The Undisputed Era dropping yet another loss to Riddle, it’s likely that WWE will be moving forward with a new program involving the NXT Tag Team Titles.
It will also be interesting to see where The Undisputed Era goes from here considering they’re not holding the straps anymore.
For the first time in years, Charlotte Flair made an appearance on NXT TV as the NXT Women’s Champion. She did so by doing a promo that was pre-taped instead of being live.
Flair talked about how it feels good to call her shot and beat Rhea Ripley to win the title. She praised Rhea for being the future but she won’t apologize for her greatness.
She thinks this title win will complete her legacy because she is going to do something that no one else has done, which is to dominate three different eras – the past, the present, and the future.
Flair brought up beating Natalya for the NXT Title before then dethroning Nikki Bella as the Divas Champion and beat Paige and Trish Stratus as well.
Flair stated that for the past five years, she has been the most dominant star in the women’s division. She bragged about beating Sasha Banks, Bayley, and Becky Lynch among others. She talked about snapping Asuka’s undefeated streak and leaving Ronda Rousey a broken woman.
Now, we’re in the present and how she’s heard how great the NXT women’s division is. Flair vowed to run through the NXT stars.
This was an excellent promo by Flair and we should hope to see more of this.
The Interim NXT Cruiserweight Championship Tournament began when Akira Tozawa took on Isiah Scott in a singles match. This contest was part of the Group B section of the tournament.
WWE didn’t give them a ton of time but for what they were able to show off, it was fun. There were some near falls but in the end, Tozawa managed to pull off the win after hitting a backsplash off the top rope.
Some fans could argue that this was an upset win considering that Scott has been used more heavily on NXT television compared to Tozawa.
However, fans must remember that the Cruiserweight Title is more showcased on 205 Live despite the NXT tag in the name of the title.
The Velveteen Dream was waiting throughout the whole show for NXT Champion Adam Cole. However, the champ didn’t join him but rather made an appearance once again by his poolside.
This led to Dream getting on a podium where he cut a promo about how it was typical for Cole to no show, to leave him in the arena by himself. Dream said that Cole thinks he’s stupid. He said that Cole fancies himself as the leader of the Undisputed Era but all he sees him as is the last champion within the faction.
He praised Cole for being a dominant champion but he told him that Cole’s dream is over.
This led to Finn Balor coming out and telling him that he doesn’t know or like Dream. Balor said that the greatest NXT Champion is him and Dream needs to be careful because ignorant comments will get a date with the prince.
Great promos all around by the three men. With WWE holding off Cole defending the title against Dream, perhaps WWE is starting a feud with Balor and Dream for now. They have a match set for next week.
After a few weeks of airing teasers for the impending debut of former Impact Wrestling star Killer Kross, he has made another sighting.
WWE had Tommaso Ciampa cut a backstage promo while sitting on a production box about how he’s done with Johnny Gargano and Candie LeRae following last week’s match.
This is when Ciampa was knocked over from behind and attacked. We saw a boot then Kross entered the frame over Ciampa, who was laid out. Kross said tick tock and the show then faded to black.
So there you have it. Kross is getting a big push by facing one of the biggest stars in NXT going forward.
Moxley made his latest title defense as the AEW World Heavyweight Champion against Hager in an Empty Arena No Holds Barred Match on Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite on TNT.
Moxley went over in the contest to successfully retain the championship. It was a hard-hitting affair as both wrestlers used weapons and battled around the arena. The finish saw Moxley hit his DDT finisher to Hager on a chair.
WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross called the match on his own. It served as the headliner of the show.
Moxley’s reign as the AEW World Heavyweight Champion began when he dethroned Chris Jericho in the main event of the AEW Revolution pay-per-view event in Chicago, IL from the Sears Center back in February.
Hager signed with the promotion when he made his on the October 2, 2019 episode of AEW Dynamite from Washington, D.C., at the famed Capital One Arena on TNT.
Hager beat Dustin Rhodes in a singles match that marked his in-ring debut with All Elite Wrestling at the AEW Revolution pay-per-view event.
Match Recap: Archer leveled a wrestler in the crowd before making his way to the ring. Colt hit Archer with a chop and Lance responded with a massive shoulder tackle. Cabana knocked Archer out of the ring and then rolled to the outside when Lance got back in. Archer went for a Splash but Colt got out of the way. Lance connected with a slam and went for the cover but Cabana kicked out at two.
Cabana battled back with a few chops to Archer’s chest but Lance shrugged them off and hit a Clothesline as Dynamite went to a commercial break. When Dynamite returned, Archer was still in control and had Cabana trapped in the corner of the ring. Archer hopped to the middle turnbuckle and went for a Splash but Colt got out of the way.
Cabana hit a Splash of his own and went for the cover but Archer kicked out at two. Lance leveled Cabana with a shoulder tackle and followed it up with a Chokeslam. Archer then hit the Blackout for the pinfall victory. Lance Archer advanced to the Semifinals of the TNT Championship Tournament.
Match Recap: Sammy controlled the action early and applied a Headlock. Suge D escaped and connected with an Arm Drag. Jericho continued to call Suge D “Pineapple Pete” as Sammy hit a knee to the face.
Sammy hung up Suge D in the ropes and hit a kick to the back. Guevara followed it up with a Suplex for a two count. Suge D tried to battle back but Sammy caught him in the Torture Rack into a GTS for the pinfall victory.
After the match, Guevara grabbed a microphone and vowed to kick the shit out of Darby Allin in the first round of the TNT Championship Tournament. Guevara then beat Suge D down some more before Darby Allin rushed the ring. Sammy retreated to the outside as Darby stood tall in the ring.
Kip Sabian squared off against Chuck Taylor tonight on Dynamite. Penelope Ford and Orange Cassidy were ringside for the match.
Match Recap: Chuck controlled the action early and beat Kip down in the corner of the ring. Sabian battled back with a knee to the face that sent Chuck to the outside. Kip followed him out there and paid for it with a Suplex on the apron. Chuck gave the thumbs up to the camera before rolling Kip back in the ring.
Kip connected with a Dropkick and went for the cover but Chuck kicked out at two. Sabian hit an Enziguri and followed that up with another boot to the face for a two count. Penelope hit Chuck with a couple cheap shots as the referee was distraction. Chuck planted Kip with a Powerbomb and followed it up with another one for a near fall.
Penelope Ford hopped up on the apron for a distraction but Chuck ignored her. Jimmy Havoc hopped over the barricade and planted Orange Cassidy with a Cradle DDT. Penelope hit Chuck with a Hurricanrana and Sabian capitalized with a roll-up for the victory.
Jon Moxley defended his AEW Championship against Jake Hager in a No Holds Barred Empty Arena match tonight. Jim Ross was on commentary for the match.
Match Recap: Moxley drove Hager to the corner of the ring to start the match off. Jon applied an Arm Bar but Hager broke free with a right hand to the face. Hager drove Moxley to the corner and bounced Jon’s face off the top turnbuckle. Moxley battled back with some chops to the face and went back to the Arm Bar in the middle of the ring.
Hager escaped and hit a knee to the midsection. Jon launched Hager to the outside and hit him with a Crossbody. Moxley once again locked in an Arm Bar on the floor outside the ring as Dynamite went to a commercial break. When AEW returned, Moxley threw Hager over the barricade and the action spilled into the empty seats.
Moxley locked in the Figure Four around the steel railing but Hager refused to quit. Hager took control and launched Moxley back over the barricade and to the ringside area. When Dynamite returned from commercial, Moxley and Hager were back in the ring. Hager hit a Splash in the corner but Moxley battled back and hit a Clothesline.
Jon rolled up Hager for a two count. Hager beat the hell out of Moxley in the corner and the champion rolled out of the ring. Hager grabbed a steel chair and set it up in between the ropes. Moxley ran towards Hager but Jake got out of the way and Jon slammed into a steel chair.
Jake bashed Moxley in the ankle with a steel chair and followed it up with the Ankle Lock. Moxley shouted at Hager to “break my f*cking ankle!” before escaping the hold. Moxley hit Hager in the head with the chair and followed it up with the Paradigm Shift for the pinfall victory. Jon Moxley is still the AEW Champion.
Opinion: I really enjoyed this match and it was great to hear Jim Ross on commentary again. Moxley cursing several times during the match was hilarious and I’m for a title match in a Waffle House parking lot at this point.
For the foreseeable future, the lack of a crowd is going to significantly hamper every wrestling show and that is something I’m still having trouble with. Even simple things like a crowd reaction to a dominant move by Lance Archer or a pop when Darby Allin rushed the ring would have helped this show. Overall, Dynamite was still decent this week. The main event and “The Bubbly Bunch” were the highlights.
WWE is planning to hold WrestleMania 37 next year in Los Angeles but the likelihood of the event taking place in the state of California is in question.
All businesses, countries, and states are being impacted right now due to the outbreak of the coronavirus. Thus, there is uncertainty surrounding almost everything including pro wrestling is high.
While WWE is still advertising holding WrestleMania in the city, more uncertainty looms over next year’s event.
A report by the LA Times has come out that states an internal Los Angeles Fire Department email was issued by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, who suggested that large gatherings could be put off for at least a year. This would obviously impact concerts, sporting, and pro wrestling events.
“Large gatherings such as concerts and sporting events may not be approved in the city for at least 1 year,” said Garcetti. “It was also noted in the email that Garcetti would like to start reopening the economy, starting with “essential businesses and small businesses … phased in over a period of time (6-10 months).”
WrestleMania 37 will take place on March 28th, 2021 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
The stadium holds 70,000. The belief is that seating can be expanded for an event like WrestleMania to hold upwards of 100,000 fans.
WWE isn’t likely to make an announcement of whether the event would need to be moved to a different location until it gets closer.
WWE managed to be deemed an essential business in the state of Florida thanks to Governor Ron DeSantis.
Now, WWE is free and clear to hold TV events at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida.
The news was made official by Orange County, Florida Mayor Jerry Demings at a press conference earlier this week. This was after WWE was originally deemed non-essential. The Mayor claimed that the change happened after some talks with the office of DeSantis.
“I’m sure it had nothing to do with the fact that the McMahon family is very tight with the Trump’s and the fact that Linda McMahon is raising $300 million dollars for Trump’s Super PAC, and the governor is very tight with the President,” Aronberg stated sarcastically. “You know, I’m sure it had nothing to do with that, right?”
President Trump also named Vince McMahon along with other sports commissioners to advise him on getting the economy back up and running.
Aronberg realizes that pro wrestling business brings a lot of elements with it as there are more than ten people to put on a show. However, having no fans in attendance helps WWE’s cause to run the show.
“Putting on the shows in a closed building where everyone is tested and there’s medical staff there and social distancing except for the competitors in the ring; I don’t think there is a threat to public safety and what they are doing,” Aronberg said.
He added that there’s another way to look at the situation as some people will ask how WWE got an exemption. He thinks asking that question is haphazard in the process.
On Wednesday, WWE decided to release or furlough several wrestlers as well as producers from their contracts with the company.
This came after WWE had announced via a press release that they had plans to cut back on talent expenses in addition to other areas of business expenses.
These cuts will include reducing executive and board member compensation, decreasing operating expenses, and deferring spend on the build-out of the Company’s new headquarters for at least six months.
Unfortunately, there was a long list of notable people who were let go by the company such as Lio Rush and Kurt Angle.
Talent released by the company included Deonna Purrazzo, Aleksandar Jaksic, Rusev, No Way Jose, Mike Kanellis, Maria Kanellis, Primo, Epico, Rowan, Sarah Logan, Karl Anderson, Luke Gallows, EC3, Drake Maverick, Curt Hawkins, Heath Slater, Eric Young, and Lio Rush.
Procedures who were let go included WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle, Billy Kidman, Mike Rotunda, Pat Buck, Fit Finlay, Shawn Daivari, Scott Armstrong, Sarah Stock, Shane Helms, and Lance Storm.
Several wrestlers and producers took to social media to give their reactions to the news. You can see their reactions here.
I wanted 2 say thank you to the WWE for the time I spent there.I made many new friends and had the opportunity to work with so many talented people. To the Superstars, continue to entertain the WWE Universe as well as you possibly can. They’re the best fans in the world. #itstrue
The only thing I wanted to do in life was wrestle. I’m grateful I spent 14 years living my dream in WWE. Thanks to my fans & everyone who believed in me. As I was getting released, I was looking at this photo & smiling. I’m #AlwayzReady & beyond excited for the future. #NotTherepic.twitter.com/uKRVK7FboI
Last time I got fired I had a really funny tweet in response to it. Doesn’t really feel appropriate today. I will say this, a lot of very talented ppl lost their jobs today and out of this disaster the PRO WRESTLING community will rise stronger than ever! ??
I know everyone is waiting to hear my response to my release from WWE but after 16 years I’m going to need a little more than a few hours to really digest all my thoughts and emotions. For now, thank you all for all of your kind words and support during this time.
To everyone on Gods green earth. Thank you for the kind words. I’ve been doing this for 46 years(Wrestling)I pray you all get through this and we can share a hug and drink again. Stay healthy. (SD)
To all my friends,fans. And family. This is a crazy time and I want to say thanks to @WWEUniverse and everyone I’ve ever shared ring time with, working with or teaching. Stay safe. Especially to all the amazing girls (women) I’ve had the honor to work with. Stay safe y’all.
The WWE has been forced to make several layoffs due to the current coronavirus pandemic.
It was announced that the company has cut ties with several talents already, including Kurt Angle, EC3, Drake Maverick, Gallows & Anderson, and more. The company has now been forced to get rid of several producers.
You can check out the full list (so far) below; which is highlighted by notable names such as Mike Rotunda, Fit Finlay, Shane Helms, and more.
Billy Kidman
Mike Rotunda
Dave Finlay
Pat Buck
Shawn Daivari
Scott Armstrong
Sarah Stock
Shane Helms
Lance Storm
Of course, it’s very likely that this is only the beginning of more backstage cuts to come. The coronavirus pandemic continues to destroy the United States economy, and the WWE has obviously been affected as well. The company’s first COVID-19-related hurdle came with their biggest show fo the year. WrestleMania 36 was forced to be relocated from the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida to WWE’s own Performance Center in Orlando.
Also, for the first time ever, WrestleMania took place in front of an empty crowd. No fans were allowed due to gathering restrictions, after the event was initially expected to draw over 70,000 fans. The card was also dramatically changed due to health concerns.
Now, WWE has been forced to let go of several talents, backstage personal, and more as the pandemic rages on. We’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.
WWE has announced that several members of its roster have been released. The company noted today in a press release that budget cuts were coming and would include talent releases.
The following talent was let go on Wednesday by WWE:
Drake Maverick
Luke Gallows
Karl Anderson
EC3
Curt Hawkins
Lio Rush
Heath Slater
Eric Young
Kurt Angle
Aiden English
Erik Rowan
Sarah Logan
Mike Chioda
Primo & Epico Colon
Mike Kanellis (Bennett)
Maria Kanellis
Zack Ryder
No Way Jose
Deonna Purrazzo
In addition to on-screen talent, many backstage WWE producers were also released.
Kurt Angle posted the following after news of his release broke:
I wanted 2 say thank you to the WWE for the time I spent there.I made many new friends and had the opportunity to work with so many talented people. To the Superstars, continue to entertain the WWE Universe as well as you possibly can. They’re the best fans in the world. #itstrue
Maverick had just been confirmed for the upcoming NXT Cruiserweight tournament that is scheduled to begin airing on NXT tonight. He sent out the following on Twitter:
Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson had just signed new deals with the company last summer.
This is the second time EC3 has been released from the company. He was let go in 2013 after signing with the company in 2008. He made a name for himself in TNA Wrestling and then returned to the company in 2018. EC3 is a 4x 24/7 champion on the main roster.
The people closest to me know this is something I’ve been struggling with wanting for the better part of the last year.
Happy to say I gave this journey my best and MORE excited for the future! ??
This is also the second time that Curt Hawkins has been released from the company. He was let go from his contract in 2013 and then returned to the company in 2016. Hawkins is a 2x WWE tag team champion along with Zack Ryder. Hawkins sent out the following:
Last time I got fired I had a really funny tweet in response to it. Doesn’t really feel appropriate today. I will say this, a lot of very talented ppl lost their jobs today and out of this disaster the PRO WRESTLING community will rise stronger than ever! ??
Dolph Ziggler posted the following in relation to the releases:
awesome wrestlers lost their job today, in the midst of everything going on it may not mean a lot to you & that’s ok. But it means a lot to me. If you can, root for them, checkout their @PWTees page & @BookCameo If u have a fav independent pro having a rough time, send their info
Fit Finlay is someone largely credited with the success of WWE’s women’s divisions. He was let go today and posted the following:
To everyone on Gods green earth. Thank you for the kind words. I’ve been doing this for 46 years(Wrestling)I pray you all get through this and we can share a hug and drink again. Stay healthy. (SD)
Vince McMahon and WWE have announced that some major cuts are coming the company’s way.
This is due to the current coronavirus outbreak and how detrimental it has been to the United States economy. WWE released an official press release, noting the coronavirus and current government-mandated impacts on the company will force several changes. The changes read as follows:
Reducing executive and board member compensation;
Decreasing operating expenses;
Cutting talent expenses, third party staffing and consulting;
Deferring spend on the build out of the Company’s new headquarters for at least six months
To recap, WWE will be reducing executive and board member salaries. Also, operating expenses, talent expenses, and third party staffing/consulting will be cut. This means that some roster cuts are coming, and there will be select WWE stars who will be given their walking papers soon. “The Company also identified headcount reductions and made the decision to furlough a portion of its workforce effective immediately.”
It might only be a matter of time before the news begins pouring in that some talents are now free agents. Once the coronavirus pandemic begins to wind down, hopefully things will slowly return to normal and those who have been furloughed will return to work. We’ll keep you updated as we learn more.
Impact Wrestling aired the go-home show before the 2-episode Rebellion show set to begin airing next week. Josh Matthews and Madison Rayne were on commentary and continued to be completely unaware that they are married to one another.
Impact Wrestling 4/14/20 Quick Results:
Johnny Swinger defeated Mike Jackson
Fallah Bahh & TJP defeat The Rascalz (Dez & Wentz) and Reno SCUM (Adam Thornstowe & Luster The Legend) and XXXL(Acey Romero & Larry D)
Hernandez defeated Rohit Raju
Ace Austin defeated Trey
Tenille Dashwood defeated Taya Valkyrie
Sami Callihan Continues ICU Mind Games With Ken Shamrock
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkrR_o3yNqc
Sami Callihan and Ken Shamrock engaged in a contract-signing segment this week to close out the show. Callihan spent the opening moments of the segment antagonizing the legend but when Shamrock went to attack, the lights went out. When they came back on Callihan was gone but mystery people with signs over their faces were all around ringside. Shamrock went to the back to look for Callihan and chased after one of the mystery ICU people. Shamrock hopped in a car and hoped to follow the mystery person but received a call on his cell from Sami who told him to tip his driver. Then a bunch of the ICU-sign-faced people began trying to tip over the car he was in to end the segment.
It’s not clear what Callihan has instore for Shamrock next week but one can only assume he’ll continue the mind games. Their match will headline next week’s show.
Taya Valkyrie Assaults Tenille Dashwood, Jordynne Grace Makes The Save
Taya Valkyrie has a Full Metal Mayhem Knockouts title match upcoming against Jordynne Grace at Rebellion. She dropped a match this week to Tenille Dashwood, however. Taya was upset after hitting Road To Valhalla and Dashwood getting her hand on the rope to break the pin. Dashwood then rolled up the former champion and scored the upset win.
Valkyrie lost it after the match and assaulted Dashwood with a series of weapons. Even John E Bravo implored her to stop. Finally, Jordynne Grace came out to make the save with a kendo stick. All the weapons used will be legal when these two face off for the belt at Rebellion.
“Smiley” Kylie Rae was the guest this week on Madison Rayne’s “Locker Room Talk” (along with Johnny Swinger). Rayne tried to get Kylie to say something negative about Hogan but it wasn’t happening. Hogan then interrupted and told Kylie she is going to show her that there are no friends in the Knockouts division. This caused Kylie to stop smiling, get angry, and tell Kiera that she doesn’t think she’s very nice. This should add a new element to the Kylie Rae vs Kiera Hogan showdown scheduled for Rebellion.
Ace Austin Picks Up Win Over Old Rival
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1TCIHLfOO0
Trey from the Rascalz confronted Ace Austin backstage this week. Trey said that Austin is trying to do the same thing to Willie Mack that he did to him and his mother, leading to a brawl between the two and this match here. Austin picked up the win, albeit with a handful of trunks.
After the match, an interview with Willie Mack was shown. Mack told Austin he’s going to have his own magic trick prepared for him at Rebellion, he’s going to make Austin’s title belt disappear.
Rob Van Dam & Katie Forbes Happy To Practice “Social Distancing” From The Deaners & Fans
Rob Van Dam and Katie Forbes were shown in a hot tub this week. Their segment aired just after a vignette for Cancel Culture that Joseph Ryan insisted be played. RVD and Forbes said they are happy to practice social distancing from the Deaners and their toxic masculinity. RVD and Forbes then made out to end the segment.
Johnny Swinger Defeats “Young Buck” M. Jackson
Johnny Swinger promised last week that he would face a “Young Buck” named M. Jackson this week. The wrestler was not Matt Jackson from the Young Bucks, however, but rather 70-year-old Mike Jackson. Jackson provided a surprisingly large challenge to Swinger, who had to resort to underhanded tactics to pull out the win. Swinger put Jackson in a pinning combination and used the ropes for leverage to get the 3-count.
TJP & Fallah Bah Headed For Another Shot At Tag Gold\
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZC53Xnl7dg
The North defeated TJP and Fallah Bah in a tag title match back in February but it looks like these two teams will meet once again. On this week’s episode, TJP and Fallah Bah won a fatal 4-way tag match. They defeated Reno Scum, the Rascalz, and Team XXL this week. After the match, the North hit the ring and engaged in a staredown with TJP and Fallah Bah to close the segment.
Hernandez Returns, Picks Up Win Over Rohit Raju
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-0t9oz6Sx4
Super Mex has returned to Impact Wrestling. He returned at the TNA One-Night-Only event recently and took on Rohit Raju this week. He defeated Raju with the Border Toss.
Major League Wrestling won’t be running any live events until there is no risk to wrestlers, employees, or the general public from doing so. In a recent interview with Entrepreneur, MLW’s Court Bauer referred to other promotions filming content at this time as “grotesque.”
“I’ll say this succinctly: That my competitors are putting on events in empty arenas and exposing their talent, crews, staffs and families to the potential [of] contracting the coronavirus I think is, frankly, grotesque,” Bauer said during the interview.
Asked about his call not to run events during the pandemic, Bauer stated it was not a difficult decision.
“I have to do the right thing for the people in my company. It’s kind of the easiest decision I’ve ever made managing this company. There’s no discussion. This is what you do. And I sleep great at night.”
Currently on MLW Fusion, the promotion is airing matches filmed in Tijuana on March 13th. The company has no plans to produce more content until it is safe to do so.
Bauer also said during the interview that MLW has a 16-month strategy for programming mapped out. He would continue to say that his company has produced 3-models based on when they could return.
“We have three models: one that would have us return in the summer, one in the fall and one 18 months from now,” Bauer said.
“I have an incredible team with a financial background that helps us navigate this. We don’t have the substantial overhead that a lot of companies have, and our revenue’s very strong and steady.”
Bauer would continue to talk about how the ongoing situation will likely change the landscape of pro-wrestling. Live events might not be as essential to wrestling companies as they once were.
“Live TV is exciting, but is it essential and necessary to operate in 2020 and beyond? I think people should rethink that. And if you’re a company built on promoting events weekly, this kind of disruption might cause you to pause and think: What if this happens again?”
The full interview with Entrepreneur Media can be found here.
The Undertaker is auctioning off a one-of-a-kind experience to help raise money for charity. Proceeds from the auction will go to Feeding America, Meals On Wheels, World Central Kitchen and No Kid Hungry. The winning bid will be awarded a trip to Austin, Texas to enjoy a private dinner with Taker. The person will also be gifted a ring-worn Undertaker jacket.
“WWE legend The Undertaker wants to fly you and a friend out to Austin, Texas, for a private dinner. The night will consist of amazing food and the can’t miss opportunity to reminisce with The Phenom over your favorite matches and moments throughout his career,” a description of the auction reads.
As of this writing, the current leading bid is $4,700.00 after 8 bids have been made.
Undertaker announced he was taking part in the “All In Challenge” through his social media channels:
“You know when I was first starting out in the wrestling business there were times where I didn’t know where my next meal was coming from,” Taker says in the video. “There were a lot of times where I didn’t have enough money for that meal. So on a small scale, I can understand what a lot of these people are going through and are going to go through. So, it’s up to us to reach back and pull some people forward.”
“What I’m going to bring to the table is dinner with the Undertaker. We can talk all things wrestling and along with that dinner I’m going to bring one of my iconic ring jackets that I’ve worn at one of the PPVs that I’ve performed in.”
Taker then nominated Post Malone and Jesse James from West Coast Choppers to also take part in the challenge. You can submit your bid for Taker’s charity auction through the Fanatics website here.
AEW has released its weekly rankings for April 15th, 2020. The promotion releases new top-5 rankings every Wednesday for its men’s, women’s and tag team divisions.
AEW Men’s Division
World Champion: Jon Moxley (8-0)
Jake Hager (4-0)
Cody Rhodes (6-1) (+1)
Chris Jericho (0-1) (-1)
Kenny Omega (3-0)
Darby Allin (4-2)
The only movement in the men’s single’s rankings this week was Cody moving ahead of Chris Jericho. Cody defeated Shawn Spears in the 1st round of the TNT Championship tournament this week while Chris Jericho worked the commentary booth with Tony Schiavone.
Jake Hager and Jon Moxley were each featured in videos building up their title match on this week’s Dynamite. Darby Allin didn’t wrestle and Kenny Omega teamed with Michael Nakazawa in a loss to the Best Friends.
AEW Women’s Division
Champion: Nyla Rose (4-1)
Hikaru Shida (7-1)
Kris Statlander (2-3)
Yuka Sakazaki (1-1)
Riho (3-3) (+1)
Britt Baker (2-3) (-1)
There was just one match in the women’s division this week but it was an important one. #1 ranked Hikaru Shida once again retained her top-ranking in the division. She defeated Britt Baker who went into the match ranked #4 but with the loss drops below former champion Riho. Shida is really on fire as of late. In addition to beating Baker this week and Anna Jay last week, she won a fatal 4-way match against Kris Statlander, Penelope Ford, and Riho on March 18th. She also won a fatal 4-way against Big Swole, Shanna, and Yuka Sakazaki on February 26th.
AEW Tag Team Division
Champions: Kenny Omega & Hangman Page (6-0)
The Dark Order (5-0)
The Young Bucks (2-2)
Best Friends (4-3) (+2)
SCU (2-3)
Lucha Bros (1-2)
The Best Friends move up two spots in the rankings this week after defeating Kenny Omega and Michael Nakazawa. There was a lot on the line in the match, as the winning team would carry the “Best Friends” name moving forward. There was no other movement in the tag division this week.
All Elite Wrestling has provided an update on its upcoming AEW Double or Nothing pay-per-view.
There has been some uncertainty surrounding the event due to the Coronavirus pandemic. According to AEW, the show will still take place on Saturday, May 23rd. However, it will no longer take place from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. A new location has yet to be announced, but there will be no fans in attendance.
The new location will be revealed in the weeks ahead, with the specifics to be determined using the latest guidance of national and global health authorities.
AEW Double or Double or Nothing will be available for purchase via BR Live, iN DEMAND cable operators, DirecTV, DISH. AEW fans outside the United States can order via the FITE streaming service.
Refunds are being issued for people who purchased tickets to Double or Nothing and the AEW Dynamite taping scheduled for the following Wednesday.
A statement issued by AEW reads:
“As illustrated in our mission statement, the safety and well-being of our fans and talent is always our top priority. AEW is grateful to MGM Grand Hotel and Resorts and everyone close to and within the AEW family – including fans – for their patience and understanding, and sends thanks around the world to healthcare and other frontline workers who are answering the call to protect and serve their communities.”
The MGM Grand website lists AEW Double or Nothing as being postponed to May 29, 2021.
Double or Nothing Impacted
As of this writing, the only match announced for AEW Double or Nothing is the finals of the AEW TNT Championship tournament.
AEW has not revealed the next challengers to its top champions. As of this writing, Jake Hager (4-0 this year) is the #1 contender to Jon Moxley’s AEW World Championship. Hikaru Shida (7-1) is the top ranked female, while The Dark Order (5-0) are the top-seeded tag team.
Many of AEW’s storylines have been up-ended due to the Coronavirus situation. The Blood and Guts double cage match scheduled for last month was postponed indefinitely. The consequences of that battle between The Elite and The Inner Circle would have certainly impacted AEW storylines in the build to Double or Nothing.
AEW recently held Dynamite TV tapings from Georgia. The company has many more weeks of shows ready to air, however, they worked with a skeleton crew. This also certainly impacted what was originally planned for the pay-per-view.
AEW on-air personality and former WWE agent Arn Anderson recently answered questions from fans on the ARN podcast. One of the queries centered on a potential film adaption of the Four Horseman. Co-host of the podcast Conrad Thompson asked Arn Anderson who would play Ric Flair in the film, and Arn replied with Joe Exotic. If you haven’t been following the hype about Exotic? He is the ‘star’ of the recent Tiger King series on Netflix.
Anderson would then compare the series to pro wrestling. There have been points where the eclectic nature of the big cat owners and the ‘carny’ sensibilities of old-school ‘wrasslin’ promotors have maybe intermeshed.
Arn Anderson on The Tiger King
“You know what’s what’s hilarious about that series is?” Arn Anderson began. “I mean this thing has blown up. People are stuck at home and they’re looking for a different alternative viewing and all that and this. We heard about it and heard about it before we decided to watch it. That’s Erin and I, we watched that. We watched the whole series over, you know, a couple, three days, whatever it was.”
Arn would then hilariously reveal that his wife Erin didn’t think that the personalities in the series were all that weird. “She said, you know what horrifies me? I don’t think all those people are that weird!? Now she’s grown up in the wrestling business, right? She’s seen some, some crazy stuff being around Ric [Flair] all these years. She is so jaded just like me that, that whole thing just didn’t come across as being that out of bounds! Now once you see the whole series and you go back and look at it you go ‘well something was really quirky about everybody in that show. Then it starts to pile on you a little bit but, it was it was entertaining, that’s for sure.”
In case you missed it, we had some further information on Joe Exotic’s foray below:
The former NWA World Heavyweight Champion recently spoke about his experience working with Joe Exotic. He noted that he was shocked by what he was charged and convicted of in a video posted to the NWA YouTube channel.
Vice recently spoke to promoter Robert Langdon from Texoma Pro Wrestling who worked with Joe to promote multiple shows. The events served as a fundraiser for Joe’s zoos. Joe Exotic served as the color commentator for the shows which were streamed on his official YouTube channel. Check out the full story here.
New Japan Pro Wrestling star Will Ospreay recently addressed CM Punk’s comments on the ‘Aerial Assassin’ being a potential match up he would consider. In a recent interview, CM Punk stated that if the “conditions were right” then he would consider discussing potential matches against John Cena, Daniel Bryan, Rey Mysterio and Will Ospreay.
CM Punk on potential opponents if all the conditions were right:
Obviously, Ospreay is the only name on that list that does not currently work for WWE. This has lead many to believe that not only does Punk keep up with New Japan Pro Wrestling, but that it might be a consideration.
Will Ospreay vs CM Punk?
Whilst there’s no confirmation of this whatsoever, Will Ospreay has publicly stated that he would like the match at Wrestle Kingdom in January next year. Appearing recently on the Chris Van Vliet podcast; Ospreay said that the ball is completely in Punk’s court when it comes to the potential match.
“It can happen and the only person that can make it happen is him” Ospreay began. “We live in this world of possibility. Anything is possible and the whole ‘Never Say Never’ thing? But like whenever someone goes ‘Will are you ever going to go to WWE?’ like my natural reaction is to go like ‘no.’ But the reality is it IS never say never.”
Punk Has Left Wrestling?
Will Ospreay would elaborate further, saying how he really never considered facing CM Punk a possibility, due to the way he left WWE initially. “But like, Punk? I didn’t really consider this a possibility at all. Because the way he talked in the Colt Cabana interview? He was DONE with wrestling. And when he showed up in the UFC it was ‘all right so this is him just pretty much done with wrestling.’ It was only when I saw that (aforementioned) interview.”
“Because my phone just went off on a random day, my phone just started going off. And when Punk did that interview and he said like, ‘I would listen to your idea if it was John Cena, Rey Mysterio, Daniel Bryan or Will Ospreay!?’ and I was like, ‘dude those three are legends right there. That’s the cream of the crop stuff. So no matter what you say about my confidence in ability or whatever? Like, they’re there (up in the echelons). I’m here, I’m not even on the screen down here (laughs).”
The Pipebomb
Ospreay also mentioned that whilst he was taken aback by the suggestion, he knows that Punk is at least aware of what is happening in Japan. “I thought, If he’s coming back he’s going to WWE. But then I always remember that promo where he sat cross legged, and he was like, ‘maybe when I’m done here I could go to New Japan Pro Wrestling, maybe I could go to Ring of Honor.’ So he does watch. And that was back in 2011. He’s still watching (New Japan), because I wasn’t around in 2011.”
Do you think that we could see Punk vs Ospreay at Wrestle Kingdom? Let us know in the comments
Also Check Out:
CM Punk Says It’s Impossible To Watch Wrestling Without An Audience
