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Champion Challenged To Double-Title Match At All-In

Only two matches have been officially confirmed for All-In so far. Cody will challenge for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship (likely against Nick Aldis) and Marty Scurll will take on Kazuchika Okada.

Another championship match may appear to be in the works. Madison Rayne just challenged Tessa Blanchard to a match which could have title implications for multiple belts.

Rayne sent the following message to Tessa Blanchard recently:

This made Tessa ponder the idea…

https://twitter.com/Tess_Blanchard/status/1018463834737127424

Madison Rayne vs Tessa Blanchard At All-In?

Blanchard captured a title recently for the Crash promotion in Mexico. She is also the RISE champion, WSU champion, PCW women’s champion and the list goes on.

https://twitter.com/Tess_Blanchard/status/1018532782778167297

Madison Rayne and Tessa Blanchard have met twice recently on Impact Wrestling. Both times Rayne used a pinning combination to score the upset victory over Blanchard. Those are the only two losses on Blanchard’s Impact record so far.

Partially as a result of the victories, Rayne has been granted a title shot against Su Yung. She’ll take on the champion July 22nd at Slammiversary. Should Rayne be victorious on that night she’s challenged Blanchard to a champion vs champion match at All-In.

Tessa Blanchard in Impact Wrestling

Blanchard just signed a new deal with Impact reported to be 2-years in length. The contract with Impact will keep her from competing for the second year in a row in the Mae Young Classic. She lost to Kairi Sane in the 1st round of the tournament last year.

On a recent Impact Wrestling media call, Blanchard had this to say about how she’s glad she didn’t sign on with WWE last year or after her initial tryout with the company.

“These life experiences, these personal experiences through wrestling, if I was signed on (with WWE), my entire path would be different,” she said. “I’m very blessed for things to have played out the way they have.”

Sasha Banks Feels Left Out Of WWE Extreme Rules

There are 12 matches scheduled for tonight’s Extreme Rules pay-per-view. You won’t find Sasha Banks on the show, however.

Despite being involved in a storyline with Bayley, Banks is not scheduled for the show tonight. Banks referenced this with the below Tweet:

She has also been mentioning on social media about how it has been 3 years since she’s been on the main roster.

Banks also continues to make vague comments likely directed at Bayley through her social media accounts.

Sasha Banks vs Bayley

There is some speculation the reason Bayley vs Sasha Banks was not added to the Extreme Rules show is that it is being saved for SummerSlam. This also allows WWE to further build the angle through the therapy segments.

In a previous article on the Sasha Banks vs Bayley rivalry, we compiled their head-to-head statistics (not including house shows).

  1. NXT September 12th, 2013: Banks defeated Bayley
  2. NXT January 9th, 2014: Bayley defeated Banks
  3. NXT January 30th, 2014: Bayley defeated Banks
  4. NXT March 13th, 2014: Bayley defeated Banks
  5. NXT April 24th, 2014: Banks defeated Bayley
  6. NXT July 17th, 2014: Bayley defeated banks
  7. NXT July 31st, 2014: Bayley defeated Banks
  8. NXT September 25th, 2014: Banks defeated Bayley
  9. NXT Takeover Brooklyn August 22nd, 2015
    NXT Women’s Championship
    Bayley defeated Banks (c)
  10. NXT Women’s Championship
    30-Minute Ironman
    Bayley (c) defeated Banks (3:2)
  11. Raw March 6th, 2017: Banks defeated Bayley
  12. Raw July 24th, 2017: Bayley defeated Banks
  13. Raw February 12th, 2018: Bayley defeated Banks
  14. Raw April 16th, 2018: No Contest

Sasha Banks A Ronda Rousey Fan

Banks recently commented on Ronda Rousey’s addition to the Raw roster. Rousey has made a fan of the multi-time champion, Banks.

“She has been killing it,” Banks said to CBS. “She has proven all the doubters wrong, and it’s so crazy to see her matches. I’m in shock; I’m in awe. I loved her match at WrestleMania. I loved her match at Money in the Bank, and I definitely think she’s one to watch. I can’t believe Money in the Bank was only her second match. I am so impressed, and I hope that I get to wrestle her in the future. I’m so excited for her career in WWE, and man, she really has been killing it.”

Keith Lee Talks His Chances Of Being At Takeover: Brooklyn IV

Keith Lee bid farewell to the independent scene at the end of May. He is believed to have signed a WWE deal at the beginning of the month, finished up his dates, and then appeared at Takeover: Chicago in June.

Since then, however, Lee has been out of action. He’s yet to have an official match since reporting to NXT. A fan on Twitter asked Lee if there was any chance he’ll find himself on the card for NXT Takeover: Brooklyn IV.

“There are many things to be considered, and many transitions to be made. I cannot make any guarantees at the moment. What I can *promise* you…however, is that I will do everything in power to be active as quickly as possible. And give my all as per usual.”

The show takes place the night before SummerSlam on Saturday, August 18th, 2018.

Keith Lee in WWE

The former PWG Champion has been wrestling since 2005. His career started to hit a real upswing in 2015, however, when he began competing for Ring of Honor. By 2017, he had become one of the most talked about athletes on the independent scene primarily because of the cult-like following he obtained in Pro Wrestling Guerilla.

Lee defeated Kassius Ohno at a WrestleMania Axxess event in April. It was widely believed after that WWE had a strong interest in him. Lee finished up his independent schedule in late May, concluding with a loss to Mia Yim on a Beyond pay-per-view show.

Bianca Belair Injured, Will Miss Mae Young Classic

One of the faster-rising athletes in the NXT women’s division has just been placed on the injured list. Bianca Belair will miss the upcoming Mae Young Classic and a scheduled #1 contenders match with a back injury.

WWE’s Sarah Schreiber broke the news earlier today.

The update only stated that Belair was dealing with a back injury. There is no timetable for her return.

Bianca Belair Injured

Belair was scheduled to face Nikki Cross, Candice LeRae, and Kairi Sane in a fatal 4-way match to determine the new #1 contender for Shayna Baszler’s belt. With Belair removed, the match will now be contested under triple threat rules.

It is also not clear if this injury is legitimate or part of a storyline. Lars Sullivan’s reported broken jaw from Takeover: Chicago has since been reported as only part of a storyline. Belair and Montez Ford were married late last month and the injury angle could be a way to explain Belair’s absence from television due to a honeymoon. That is only speculation, however.

Bianca Belair in the Original Mae Young Classic

Belair defeated Sage Beckett in the first round of the Mae Young Classic last year. She lost to the eventual tournament winner, Kairi Sane, in the second round, however.

She has steadily moved up the rankings in NXT as well. At the moment, Belair is 7-0 in single’s matches on NXT programming. She has defeated Lacey Evans, Latoya Allsopp, Jessix Hill, Miss Drew Renee, Candice LeRae, Aliyah, and Dakota Kai.

Rich Swann Talks Impact Wrestling, Slammiversary, and Supportive Fans

Rich Swann is becoming a major part of Impact Wrestling. Since debuting with the company at the recent television tapings held in Windsor, ON, Swann has become a part of the angle involving the Lucha Brothers, Sami Callihan, and oVe.

He is booked for the upcoming Slammiversary show next weekend as well. Swann will be part of a fatal 4-way with Taiji Ishimori, Fenix, and Johnny Impact. Swann is also a regular for the re-launched Major League Wrestling promotion. He’s booked on the upcoming Battle Riot event on July 19th, 2018 as well.

The former Cruiserweight Champion appeared on Interactive Radio recently and spoke about his run in Impact Wrestling so far, MLW, and the fan support he’s received since returning.

Rich Swann Talks Impact Wrestling Run

While Swann has not signed a long-term deal with Impact, he indicated on a recent media call that they are looking to work out an agreement.

“I think (Impact Wrestling) is an amazing company,” Swann said. “I’ve always followed it ever since I was younger. It has always been the company where you’re going to see pro wrestling. It is not just geared towards the entertainment. You’re going to see what people have been die-harding to see – That fast-paced, fight forever type style. That is what you’re going to get out of Impact. I love that.”

Swann also spoke about the supportive fan response he has received since arriving in Impact. “I’m very surprised, honestly,” he said in regards to the fan response. “When I had made my return to independent wrestling, a lot of people didn’t take too kindly to having me on the shows. I think once I was able to show my talents, people gave me, for lack of a better term, a second chance. I’ve taken that second chance and rolling with it and I’m not going to let anybody stop me no matter what they say and no matter what they do.”

There was an initial backlash against Swann when he returned to the independents following his arrest late last year. Following supportive comments from Su Yung, Impact Management and many of his colleagues, however, response to Swann has been back to positive.

“The people that have jumped on board, I’ve always said I greatly appreciate their support. I’ve grown up with these people, with these fans,” Swann continued. “Wrestling has been in my life since I was 16 years old. These people see that. I grew up with them in their eyes. For them to give me reactions like that means the world… You know?”

In terms of his Slammiversary match, Swann assures fans it will steal the show.

Becky Lynch Talks Pressure To Fit The “WWE Mold”

Unlike many of the athletes Becky Lynch came through the developmental system with, her road to WWE was long and arduous. Lynch began wrestling at just 15 years of age but it wouldn’t be until 11 years into her wrestling career that WWE would sign her. In that time, she began to doubt if she was what the company was looking for.

The 31-year-old recently appeared on the Conversations with Maria Menounos show and spoke about the pressure she felt earlier in her career.

Becky Lynch on Fitting the “WWE Mold”

“I remember hearing from a woman who said, ‘They don’t want girls like us. They want fluff.’ And I remember thinking in my head, ‘Well let’s see about this.’ But, also being like, ‘Oh ok, well what do I got to do?’” Lynch said on the show. “So at that time everybody was just drop dead models, stunning, and looked phenomenal.”

Lynch worked numerous jobs while she chased her WWE dream. She worked as an airline attendant and also did stunt work on the show, Vikings.

“I thought if I looked like a fitness model maybe I’ve got a better chance of getting hired,” Lynch continued. “So that’s why I got into bodybuilding and with that, of course, I didn’t do it properly. I didn’t really know what I was doing….and I just dropped so much weight and I didn’t have the energy and with that your mood changes…everything changes and gets messed up.”

She would continue to say the early frustrations in her career led to depression.

“I was going into depression and lack of self-belief more than anything,” Lynch said. “That lack of self-belief can be so detrimental to anybody in any field…they just throw away their art and what they’re good and what they’re meant to do because they just don’t believe in themselves.”

Lynch would also credit Dusty Rhodes for helping her have more confidence. “If it wasn’t for Dusty Rhodes believing in me a lot of the times, I wouldn’t be here.”

transcriptions via WrestleZone

Daniel Bryan: I’ll Likely Re-Sign With WWE

Much has been made of Daniel Bryan’s WWE contract expiring later this year. September 1st is believed to be the final date on his current deal with the company. Based on comments he made during WWE’s recent stop in Tapei, however, Bryan won’t be leaving the company anytime soon.

“The wrestling world is an interesting world right now,” Bryan said. “But I love working with WWE and my wife (Brie Bella) is a part of WWE and so there’s a good chance I’ll re-sign.”

“The drive is always to do something better,” he continued. “I want to create a performance next that’s better than any performance I’ve ever done. And when you talk about that, you talk about the high points of my career like main-eventing Wrestlemania 30. That’s the highest you can really get. How do you create things that are as creatively, mentally and emotionally satisfying as that? And that is what I am in the pursuit of.”

Daniel Bryan Likely To Re-Sign With WWE

The 37-year-old also spoke about his upcoming title match at Extreme Rules. Bryan will team with Kane to challenge the Bludgeon Brothers for the Smackdown tag-team Championships.

“I love teaming with Kane,” Bryan said. “When we were tag team champions in the past, that was really one of the most fun parts of my career and so I’m looking forward to getting back with him and doing it.”

When asked, however, Bryan said there aren’t too many youngsters on the Smackdown roster for him to pass his knowledge down to.

“It’s weird. We actually don’t have many young guys on SmackDown,” Bryan said. “Most of them are in their 30s. Almost everyone with the exception of Andrade ‘Cien’ Almas are in their 30s and Andrade has been wresting since he was 15 years old. When you wrestle with people, you learn from wrestling with them and when you talk to people, you’re learning without specifically coming up to somebody and saying, ‘Hey, what do you think about this?’ Just within the process of wrestlers talking, we’re learning about each other’s ideas, about what we are doing, and doing matches with each other. I think everyone is constantly learning within our industry.”

Darryl Takahashi Updates Hiromu Takahashi’s Condition

The inanimate toy cat of Hiromu Takahashi’s has sent out an update on the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion’s condition. Hiromu was dropped on his head during the G1 Special in San Fransico. It was reported he collapsed in the back after finishing the match and was taken to hospital.

Updates from New Japan Pro Wrestling on his condition have only stated he was conscious and sitting up in the hospital and has now flown back to Japan.

A Twitter post from Hiromu’s account appears to show Darryl Takahashi holding up a sign with an update from Hiromu.

Darryl Takahashi Updates Hiromu Takahashi’s Condition

While the sign states that Hiromu is fine, it also shows an illustration with his head severed from his body. So, it’s tough to know exactly what they are trying to communicate here.

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter also noted he heard that Hiromu will not require surgery, which is also a positive sign.

IWGP United States Champion, Juice Robinson, also commented on Hiromu’s injury recently. Robinson made his comments during an appearance on Jim Ross’ podcast.

“When you hear broken neck people think (the person is paralyzed) but that’s not with every broken neck,” Juice said. “Hopefully his broken neck is just you know time off. Even though that still sucks but that beats the alternative. After seeing it, this is probably the best case scenario cause that looked like it could’ve been the last bump he ever took.”

Up until his injury, it had been a career year for Hiromu. He won the 2018 Best of the Super Juniors en route to winning the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship for the second time.

transcriptions via Mandatoryhttps://twitter.com/TIMEBOMB1105/status/1018007355957506053

Dolph Ziggler: 11.5 Out Of 12 Years I Was Doing Everything I Could…

Dolph Ziggler recently appeared on Lillian Garcia’s “Chasing Glory” podcast. Some of the more noteworthy comments he made during the appearance had to do with pitching ideas to WWE creative.

The topic of WWE Superstars who are not in angles or major storylines came up. Some feel it’s on Superstars to pitch ideas and angles to creative and not doing so is the reason they aren’t on television. Ziggler disagrees with this point of view.

“That’s not true, not at all,” Ziggler said. “11.5 out of 12 years I was doing everything I could, pitching ideas, having guys like Shawn Michaels tell me how awesome I was. I got to a point where I said to Shawn, ‘I’m going to go out here in this dark match and you tell me why the hell I’m not on TV kicking ass.’ He goes, ‘Ah Ok.’ I had the match, came to the back and he said, ‘Yeah, I don’t know.’ So, I got to a point where I was so fed up and that’s years ago. So, it happens.”

Dolph Ziggler on Lillian Garcia’s Podcast

Ziggler also spoke about how he can only worry about what he puts into something and now what WWE ultimately decides to do.

“I always told myself, ‘Do everything you possibly can. Don’t have something like, ‘I wish I would have told Vince [McMahon] this,” Ziggler said. “I wish I would have represented myself this way. I wish I would have pitched this idea. I wish I would have done this one extra thing where I hit the gym a little harder and look better on TV’…I hit every aspect I could so the frustration is it’s a little on yourself because maybe somebody hates me from eight years ago and they bring it up at every meeting. I have no idea; but, I’ve done everything I can…If you’ve done everything you can and creative has nothing for you sometimes they have nothing for you. Sometimes it’s personal. Sometimes it’s not.”

Fans telling Ziggler it’s his fault he’s not in major angles was also brought up on the show.

“People who tell me that, a couple old timers, even Hall of Famers, they’re like, ‘That’s on you.’ I’m like, ‘No man,’” he continued. “Seven years ago maybe it is on me. Now they know how good I am. I know how good I am. It’s not all in my court there to put myself on the show.”

Tama Tonga Rips Into Kenny Omega At G1 Climax 28 Press Conference

NJPW held a press conference today to promote the G1 Climax 28. The tournament gets started tomorrow.

One of the match-ups that everyone is looking forward to will take place on July 21st, 2018. On that night, Kenny Omega will face Tama Tonga.

Tonga was all confidence when he appeared at the G1 Climax 28 press conference today. He turned his attention to Omega shortly after he began speaking.

“You can just feel the tension right here!” Tonga said before turning to Omega (who was seated to the left of the podium). “Do you blame me for what I did?”

Bullet Club “Firing Squad” versus Bullet Club “the Elite”

“(Kenny Omega) shouldn’t be mad. He should be thanking me,” Tonga said. “I granted him his wish! I cut him away from Bullet Club so he can be the super-Kliq, no wait Golden Lovers, no wait, Golden.. whatever team he’s always wanted. Obviously, he’s never wanted to be Bullet Club. You can just tell that from the very beginning!”

With the Cody vs Omega rivalry over, it now looks as though this version of the Bullet Club civil war angle will play a key role in NJPW storylines.

“As for the G1,” Tonga continued. “I want (Kenny Omega) and he knows that. Everyone here knows that. This G1 I’ll show you how good I am.”

For his part, Omega chose not to comment on Tama Tonga or the Firing Squad. He simply promised the fans that he would put in a good performance at the tournament.

“I promise you, every match will be a best bout,” Omega said. “It will only be a race for a distant second place.”

Hangman Page vs Bad Luck Fale

While Omega vs Tonga might be the most anticipated match of the new rivalry, the first battle takes place tomorrow. The first match between the Elite and the Firing Squad will be between Hangman Page and Bad Luck Fale.

While Fale was not present for the Cow Palace attack, it’s been made clear since that he played a pivotal role in the planning. Fale also sent out the following Tweet which Page took offense to.

Fale then gave the same statement as his pre G1 speech during the press conference.

“Is there more to that?” Page asked Fale. “Is it F*** Me, is it F*** Kenny, is it F*** the Elite? Is that what you are trying to say? You’re not making it very clear, Fale. I guess we’ll find out tomorrow.”

Haku On His Reputation And Teaming With His Sons In NJPW

Last Saturday, Haku and his sons, Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa, attacked Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks. As NJPW heads into the G1 Climax tournament, the big rivalry appears to now be the Bullet Club “Firing Squad” against Bullet Club’s “the Elite.”

Earlier this week, Haku appeared on the 2-Man Power Trip podcast with Shane Douglas and spoke on a variety of topics.

Haku on His Reputation

Haku is often credited with being one of the toughest men ever in the business. When asked, however, Haku admitted some of the stories about him are a little embellished.

“I’ll tell you that some of them are true and some of them they make up,” Haku said on people who tell stories about his toughness. “The beating up the people in bars is again just protecting the business and showing them what this business is all about. So most of them are true and I’m not bragging, I’m just telling you guys that it was just me protecting the business. People just had the wrong timing and had a few beers and would turn around calling the business saying it was fake and sometimes I guess it was jealousy that we were in the bar and that girls saw you on TV and start talking to you and are not talking to those local boys so there was other things that happened.”

Haku on Teaming With His Sons in NJPW

Since early 2016 when he appeared in the New Japan Rumble, Haku has been an occasional presence in Bullet Club. He often gets to team with his sons, Tama Tonga, Tanga Loa, and HIKULEO.

“I always try to give back to the Japanese and for what they have done for me,” Haku said. “I’ve always said that no matter who the promoter is that it is only a job but in Japan, it is showing them that I respect them and am grateful. With New Japan, we’ve gone to New Zealand together and of course, Japan and I hope that my boys understand that. With this new generation, I’m not too sure sometimes if they understand that. I’m not too sure if you know that sometimes history ends and my life is to give back and It is my life to show them the way and I hope they understand that. In Japan, they know our relationship and they give me another chance to go there.”

Haku On Legitimate Tough Guys In Wrestling

When asked about legit tough guy wrestlers such as the Road Warriors or Steiner Brothers, Haku says he was intimidated by them.

“I was afraid of them and I am still away from them. They were all the toughest guys that I knew in the field and I was just a third world country boy that has come into the business and trying to feed my family back home so whatever comes in my way (laughing) you know things happen.”

While others will disagree with him on this point, Haku does not believe he is the toughest man in the history of wrestling.

“I am not the toughest. I am a gentleman (laughing) just doing my job and it was those guys that are tough (Steiners and Road Warriors) and they don’t know how tough they are,” Haku said. “But things happen and in the old days we were taught that with the wrestling we “kayfabe” them and we protect our business inside and outside the ring. So when we weren’t filming it was when I was protecting our business and it was to show respect but things happen just because people showed disrespect and in life there is wrestling and there is no wrestling and for me it was protecting the business.”

Transcription via Wrestling Inc

Low-Ki Defeats Shane Strickland For MLW World Heavyweight Title

MLW was supposed to be “Swerve’s House” but a $60,000 bounty was eventually too much for him. Low-Ki not only cashed-in on the bounty but he took the MLW Heavyweight Championship from Strickland in the process.

The title changed happened last night from the Gilt nightclub in Orlando, FL. As per MLW rules, Low-Ki now must defend the title against any opponents Strickland had been scheduled against.

Low-Ki will defend his newly won title against John Hennigan next Thursday in Queen’s NY.

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1017620820649218048

Low-Ki MLW World Heavyweight Champion

Low-Ki becomes just the second champion since the title was brought back into existence earlier this year. Strickland defeated Matt Riddle in the finals of a tournament on April 12th, 2018 in Orlando.

Low-Ki is now the 6th champion in MLW history. Champions 1-4 in the title’s lineage are Shane Douglas, Satoshi Kojima, Mike Awesome, and Steve Corino.

Other MLW Announcements

MLW Battle Riot July 19th

The promotion also plans to air their upcoming Battle Riot event on July 19 for free on BeIN Sports.

The promotion defines a Battle Riot match as:

“A mash-up of a battle royal, royal rumble and anything goes street fight, this super-sized main event will feature 40 wrestlers with new participants entering the ring every 60 seconds.”

The winner will receive a title shot against the MLW World Heavyweight Champion.

MLW War Games Returns

Earlier this week, MLW announced they will be holding a War Games match at the Fort Lauderdale’s War Memorial Auditorium on Thursday, September 6, 2018. The original inception of the promotion also featured a War Games match between Steve Corino’s Extreme Horsemen and Terry Funk’s “Funkin Army.”

Major League Wrestling owns the trademark to the name War Games for the following purposes:

“Entertainment services in the nature of organizing and arranging professional wrestling exhibitions for entertainment purposes; providing information and news about professional wrestling via a global computer network; presentation of live wrestling show performances.”

Rusev Day Officially Declared In Knoxville

What started as a catch-phrase has turned into an officially celebrated holiday. Rusev Day has been officially declared in Knoxville, TN.

With his first-ever WWE Championship match upcoming this Sunday at Extreme Rules, the declaration couldn’t have come at a better time. Not surprisingly, it was a town with a connection to wrestling which announced the holiday.

Glen Jacobs posted the following to Twitter:

Rusev Day

Rusev spoke with ESPN earlier this year about how “Rusev Day” has taken off.

“I had no idea this was going to happen,” Rusev said to ESPN. “This was supposed to be a one-time ‘Rusev Day’ thing. I never thought in a million years it was going to be what it is today. It was something we planned to do, but just for one day. But it just caught on fire ever since then. Nobody expected that.”

While he might not have expected, Rusev says this has been the greatest part of his career.

“I’ve just been enjoying it,” Rusev said. “I’ve been booed out of the building for the past four years. So finally the people now appreciate me. But I’m just having fun, I’m just doing me. Every bad guy or good guy, we all enjoy the crowd reaction, so I’m just going with it.”

Rusev says he is even enjoying this period of his WWE run more than when he was undefeated and rode a tank to the ring at WrestleMania.

“By far it’s the most fun I’ve had in my career,” Rusev said. “I mean, I loved WrestleMania 31 with the tank — that was amazing, of course. But now I’m showing everybody that you don’t have to be stuck being a foreigner bad guy. Being a foreigner bad guy doesn’t have to be my destiny, and I can be much more than that.”

Rey Mysterio Booked For NJPW Event Next Month

New Japan Pro Wrestling has announced Rey Mysterio will return to the promotion next month. The famous luchador is scheduled to have a match on the final night of the G1 Climax 28 show from the Nippon Budokan on August 12th, 2018.

Mysterio’s opponent for the show has yet to be named, however. His only match for NJPW to date was at last month’s Dominion. On that night, he teamed with Hiroshi Tanahashi and Jushin Liger in a losing effort to Cody, Hangman Page, and Marty Scurll.

Mysterio originally challenged Jushin Liger when he first appeared in NJPW. A match between the two legends for Strong Style Evolved was eventually scrapped last year, however. Mysterio was forced to withdraw from the event due to a torn bicep.

It’s possible Liger is named later as his opponent, however that is only speculation.

Rey Mysterio NJPW

At 43-years-of age, Mysterio has been working hard to keep in shape for what is likely the final few years of his career. Mysterio posted on Instagram recently that he is having stem cell therapy done on his knee (which has been a frequent problem) and his bicep (which he tore last year).

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk6QKaOABBA/?hl=en&taken-by=619iamlucha

Rey Mysterio WWE Contract Update

Yesterday, we reported that Rey Mysterio and WWE were close to a deal. The only remaining sticking points were the remaining commitments Mysterio has left. One of those dates is All-In on September 1st, 2018. Mysterio does have dates booked after then as well.

9 Takeaways From Impact Wrestling 7/12

Impact Wrestling is now just 9 days away from Slammiversary. Last night’s episode of Impact Wrestling added 2 new matches to the card and built towards several others already signed.

Impact Wrestling started off last night with King’s OGZ, so they sound like a good place for us to start too. Here are 9 takeaways from Impact Wrestling’s July 12th show:

5150 Street Fight Scheduled For Slammiversary

After Homicide and Hernandez made short work of some local talent, King challenged Konnan’s LAX for Slammiversary. Even though Santana & Ortiz are the tag-team champions, however, King said they are not interested in titles at this time. They want LAX in a 5150 street fight.

King also explained why Homicide and Hernandez joined him. He said that when Konnan decided to bring back LAX he chose to bring in two new boys he could control rather than Homicide or Hernandez. Now the OGZ want to take out the new LAX.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dpx5j6o9HSM&frags=pl%2Cwn

Shotzi Blackheart Has Arrived In Impact Wrestling

A standout from RISE, Shotzi Blackheart was scouted by Impact management at a seminar run by the Illinois-based developmental promotion. Shotzi is a wild one with quite a lot to say.

Here are some quotes from her backstage interview with Alicia Atout:

  • “Being here has given me a one-track mind and that track is to prove I’m no phony-baloney”
  • “This mango is ready to tango”
  • “My mind is a machine, my body’s the bullets and Allie is my target”

She dropped her debut match to Allie but she was able to get in a fair amount of offense and show what she can do. Don Callis mentioned on commentary that Impact management would be foolish not to sign her.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMhhKHsad7o&frags=pl%2Cwn

Tessa Blanchard Attacks Allie

For the second week in a row, Tessa Blanchard interfered in a match involving Allie. The previous week, Blanchard came out to get revenge on Madison Rayne but was fended off by Allie who was teaming with her. This week it was Allie who was Blanchard’s target.

Following Allie’s victory over Shotzi Blackheart, Blanchard hit the ring and delivered a hammerlock-DDT. Shortly after the segment aired, Impact Wrestling management made the match between the two of them official for Slammiversary.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAomJxid_Ck&frags=pl%2Cwn

Matt Sydal Believes Organic Matter Beats Machines (he also mentioned his 3rd eye…)

Matt Sydal is not worried about having to defend his title at Slammiversary against an opponent so much bigger than he is, he’s been doing that his whole career. Sydal cut a backstage promo this week on Impact where he discussed why he feels he’ll be victorious against Brian Cage.

Sydal said they call Cage a machine but that is the very thing which will be his downfall.

“My opponent is a man who sees things completely mechanical but we live in an organic universe,” Sydal said. “When machines break, they fall apart but organic things they come back to life. No matter how hard you bury me down, I rise back up.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zITq-IUK_Us&frags=pl%2Cwn

Joe Hendry and Katarina May Not Have Grado’s Best Interests In Mind…

It’s starting to look as though Katarina may have ulterior motives as it concerns her relationship with Grado. That Grado has brought his “best friend” Joe Hendry into Impact is also an interesting development.

Josh Matthews noted on commentary that he follows Katarina on social media and she posts a lot of pictures but usually ones which feature only her and Hendry rather than Grado.

Eli Drake disposed of Grado in single’s action this week. After doing so, Drake tried to put the moves on Katarina only to be pushed away. Upon realizing Katarina was not interested in him, Drake attempted to inform Grado that something was going on between Hendry and Katarina.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlJ2TXfgvZq/?utm_source=ig_twitter_share&igshid=scm7tfbmha1x

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llCKL2fSt68&frags=pl%2Cwn

Austin Aries Drops Truth Bombs On DeAngelo Williams

Austin Aries is a guy who doesn’t mince words. When DeAngelo Williams returned to Impact to talk about how his training with Moose is going, Austin Aries couldn’t help but get involved. After Williams called Aries “trash”, the Impact World Champion came out to confront him.

Aries ripped on Williams for not getting signed by an NFL team for next season. Then he ripped on him for never having won a Super Bowl. Finally, Aries knocked him in the head with a microphone and then beat him up with a chair.

Later in the show, Moose would call in to say he will be on the show next week to confront Aries.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCPbFdu0QBg&frags=pl%2Cwn

Madison Rayne Sit-Down Interview Turns Into Horror Film

It was just supposed to be a sit-down interview…

What seemed as though it would be a rather uneventful segment when we mentioned it in our preview for this episode, Madison Rayne’s planned sit-down interview turned into a macabre scene. Rayne’s interview had barely begun when ominous stuff started happening around the studio.

After foolishly stumbling into an open field to escape the paranormal activity, Rayne was surrounded by Yung’s undead brides. The undead brides whispered that her time had come. Then Yung herself appeared before the camera suddenly went black.

Highlight-Filled Main Event

The night’s main event featured Pentagon and Sami Callihan building towards their Slammiversary Mask vs Hair match. It also featured 2 of the 4 wrestlers who will compete in the fatal 4-way.

Fenix and Rich Swann were on the same side in this match but will be in competition with one another at Slammiversary. Some of the highlights of this week’s main event might preview what is in store at Slammiversary when Fenix, Rich Swann, Taiji Ishimori and Johnny Impact face each other.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rH7uW1sfAmY&frags=pl%2Cwn

Can Sami Callihan Be Pinned?

This week’s main event featured a Lucha rules 6-man tag. On one side was oVe and Sami Callihan and on the other was Fenix, Pentagon Jr, and Rich Swann.

During this match, Callihan kicked out from Pentagon’s Fear Factor (package piledriver). Callis noted on commentary that he has never seen anybody kick out of that move. Callihan would also kick out of the spiked-piledriver move the Lucha Brothers use as a finisher.

If Callihan can kick-out of two of Pentagon’s finishers in a row, what will Pentagon have to do to beat him at Slammiversary?

Callihan certainly sounded confident in his chances at Slammiversary when we spoke to him yesterday on the Impact media call.

Impact Wrestling 7/12 Quick Results:
  • OGZ defeated Local Talent
  • Allie defeated Shotzi Blackheart
  • Eli Drake defeated Grado
  • Sami Callihan & oVe defeated Rich Swann, Fenix, & Pentagon

Also on the show:

  • the Desi Hit Squad had a backstage interaction with Fallah Bah and KM which will likely lead to a match.
  • Killer Kross will face Petey Williams next week.
  • Another video for a new Knockout aired. All we know of her so far is that she is somewhat “devilish”
  • A video package recapping the Eddie Edwards vs Tommy Dreamer feud aired.

Slammiversary XVI
July 22nd, 2018
Rebel Entertainment Complex
Toronto, ON, Canada

  • Mask vs Hair
    Pentagon Jr vs Sami Callihan
  • Impact World Championship
    Austin Aries (c) vs Moose
  • Knockouts Championship
    Su Yung (c) vs Madison Rayne
  • X-Division Championship
    Matt Sydal (c) vs Brian Cage
  • House of Hardcore Match
    Tommy Dreamer vs Eddie Edwards
  • 5150 Street Fight
    The OGZ w/King vs LAX w/Konnan
  • Fenix vs Rich Swann vs Taiji Ishimori vs Johnny Impact
  • Allie vs Tessa Blanchard

ROH & NJPW Book Madison Square Garden For April 6th, 2019

In a landmark announcement, ROH and NJPW have just announced a super-card from Madison Square Garden.

“ROH and NJPW are proud to announce that on April 6th, 2019, the companies will join forces to present the ultimate wrestling event,” an ROH press release reads. “G1 Supercard, to fans from around the world, LIVE from Madison Square Garden in New York City!”

It had previously been reported that talks between ROH and the historic venue had broken down.

G1 Supercard Madison Square Garden

“The G1 Supercard is an event that can only represent the absolute best possible matches with both NJPW and ROH stars. Madison Square Garden is the perfect venue for them,” said Greg Gilleland, ROH General Manager

“This is a historic initiative for ROH and New Japan Pro-Wrestling,” Harold Meij, President of NJPW proudly commented. “This gives us a great chance to expose fans to NJPW in the building which housed so many memorable and compelling matches.”

The only confirmed participants so far are Kazuchika Okada, Tetsuya Naito, and Hiroshi Tanahashi.

ROH and NJPW Book Madison Square Garden

“We are thrilled to welcome Ring of Honor Wrestling and New Japan Pro-Wrestling to Madison Square Garden for the much anticipated G1 Supercard,” said Joel Fisher, Executive Vice President, MSG Marquee Events. “We expect April 6th to be another memorable night of wrestling at The World’s Most Famous Arena.”

“This is destined to join a long list of historical wrestling moments and where better to hold it than at Madison Square Garden,” ROH Chief Operating Officer Joe Koff said.

Koff would continue to say that this would not be possible without the tremendous fan support they enjoy.

Tickets will go on sale August 8th, 2017 at 10AM ET for Honor Club VIP subscribers. They will go on sale to the general public August 10th.

Sami Callihan: I’m Starting A Revolution, I’m Changing Pro-Wrestling

Sami Callihan will face Pentagon Jr in a Mask vs Hair match at Slammiversary on July 22nd, 2018. He was this week’s guest on the Impact Wrestling teleconference media call.

Callihan is currently a featured wrestler for 3 different promotions. Impact Wrestling, Lucha Underground, and MLW all have Callihan on their roster. He believes this fact is proof that he is the most revolutionary wrestler going right now.

“I’m making history right now, I’m one of the first people, if not the first person, to work for 3 national television programs at the same time,” Callihan said. “I’m on TV every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Who else in professional wrestling history could ever say that?”

Out of everything he is currently doing, however, there is nothing more important to him than taking Pentagon’s mask at Slammiversary.

“I’m starting a revolution, I’m changing wrestling from the inside out.”  – Sami Callihan

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHL0jwAlvr0&frags=pl%2Cwn

Mask vs Hair Match
Sami Callihan vs Pentagon Jr.
Slammiversary
July 22nd, 2018

Callihan didn’t mince words when talking about his plans for Slammiversary. “Slammiversary I’m going to take Pentagon’s mask once and for all,” Callihan said. “A lot of people outside of Impact’s world don’t realize that me, Pentagon, Fenix, Dave & Jake (Crist, oVe) we’ve been doing this for years all over the world. Now, we get a chance to do it on national television, on live pay-per-view and there’s nothing that’s going to stop me from taking his mask once and for all.”

“(Pentagon) may have the rest of the wrestling world fooled that he’s some undead Mexican Zombie but I know his secret. He is just a really good professional wrestler that wears a mask. I’m going to take that ask from him and he’s not going to be special anymore.”

Should Callihan lose at Slammiversary, however, he’ll have his head shaved bald. In the past, having their heads shaved has caused many wrestlers to spiral into madness. We asked Sami if he was worried that this could be his fate at Slammiversary.

“Well, I’m not going to have my head shaved, that’s the point,” Callihan said. “I’m going to beat Pentagon, I’m going to take his mask. Then I’m going to parade all around the world wearing it. Maybe I’ll become Pentagon. I don’t know if you saw TV a couple of weeks ago (it was last week), I wore his entire outfit and at this point, I’m pretty sure I make a better Pentagon than he does.”

Martha Hart Issues Statement In Response To Bret Hart’s Allegations

Bret Hart has been openly critical of his brother Owen’s widow, Martha. According to the Hitman, Martha Hart’s continued efforts to prevent WWE from using Owen’s image has been detrimental to his legacy.

“I think Martha, Owen’s widow, she’s a very obtuse, square-headed person,” Hart said recently. “I think she’s done more to erase my brother Owen’s memory than she ever did to remember him.”

Martha Hart Responds To Bret Hart

Marth Hart published her response to Bret’s comments on the Owen Hart Foundation website.

“The suggestion by Bret Hart that I am “erasing” the memory of my late husband, Owen Hart, is reckless, irresponsible, and clearly untrue,” Martha’s statement begins.

“Bret’s comments are rooted in the fact that I have steadfastly refused to work with the WWE to exploit Owen’s image for commercial gain. Owen was an incredible entertainer and I know that his many fans around the world enjoyed his wrestling career immensely. I encourage them to continue to do so. But I am firm in my belief that the WWE was responsible for Owen’s death. As a result, I cannot and will not support any efforts by the WWE to profit from Owen’s memory.”

After giving the above statement regarding why Martha refuses to work with WWE, she then spoke on the work the Owen Hart Foundation has done and how that work honors Owen’s memory.

The Owen Hart Foundation

“Instead, I, my son Oje and daughter Athena have worked tirelessly to honor Owen through the good works of The Owen Hart Foundation, which has exceeded $4 million in gift giving and contributions toward scholarships, home owner bursaries, and other special projects that have greatly improved the lives of so many in Canada and around the world. We have always believed that this is the most fitting public tribute to a man of profound integrity; a wonderful human being who just happened to wrestle. I know that Owen would be very proud of the tremendous accomplishments the Foundation has achieved in his name.”

Severed Ties Between Bret Hart and Martha Hart

According to Bret’s book, Bret and Martha were very close in the days following Owen’s death. Over the years, however, the topic of WWE using Owen’s likeness has driven a significant wedge between them.

“Bret Hart’s comments are disrespectful and cruel. It is disappointing that so many in the media have chosen to report them without seeking my perspective. Whatever Bret may believe, the fact is that, far from “erasing” Owen’s memory, I have devoted the last 20 years to celebrating his life in a very public way. I can think of very few people who have been remembered so glowingly by their spouse.”

Impact Wrestling 7/12 Preview: Sami Callihan Goes Mask Hunting

Impact Wrestling is back tonight with an episode taped from Windsor, ON, Canada.  It will be the second last show before Slammiversary on July 22nd, 2018.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pM-7iIhIgA&frags=pl%2Cwn

Impact Wrestling 7/12

The OGZ (King, Homicide & Hernandez) Kick Off Impact

  • The first segment for this week is scheduled to be King, Homicide, and Hernandez.
  • Last week’s episode concluded with LAX in tatters due to a civil war. King admitted being behind the hit on Konnan. He attempted to recruit Santana and Ortiz but when that didn’t work, Homicide and Hernandez took them out.
  • We still don’t have an Impact tag-team championship match at Slammiversary. Perhaps we could see King’s OGZ challenge Konnan’s LAX for the straps.

Austin Aries Speaks The Truth

  • In the build-up to Austin Aries vs Moose at Slammiversary, it’s been a war of words.
  • Aries went on vacation shortly after winning the title back from Pentagon but tonight he will have a chance to say whatever he wants to his upcoming challenger.
  • Aries has been criticizing Moose for being a failed football player trying a second career.
  • Moose, on the other hand, says he left the NFL for pro-wrestling and is here to chase a dream.

DeAngelo Williams Returns To Impact

  • DeAngelo Williams will return to Impact Wrestling tonight. He’s been helping Moose train for his World Title match and will likely have plenty to say regarding his chances against Austin Aries.

Allie In Single’s Action

  • Allie is back and she’ll be involved in a single’s match tonight against an as of yet unnamed opponent.
  • This is a new version of Allie, however, one that is a little darker and not quite as bubbly as before. She’ll need that new attitude too as she has a potential new rival waiting in the wings.
  • Last week, Tessa Blanchard interfered in Allie’s match in which she was teaming with Madison Rayne and facing Su Yung and one of her undead brides. Blanchard wanted at Rayne because of the two straight upset losses Rayne has handed her lately. Perhaps Allie and Blanchard are on a collision course.

Madison Rayne Sit-Down Interview

  • In just 10 days, Madison Rayne will go one-on-one with Su Yung. Tonight, she takes part in a sit-down interview to discuss her career, Slammiversary, and, of course, her opponent on that night, Su Yung.

Pentagon, Fenix, and Rich Swann vs Sami Callihan and oVe

  • Callihan has promised that during this match not only will he take Pentagon and Fenix’s masks but he plans to rip off Rich Swann’s face!
  • We will get a build-up to the Mask vs Hair match between Pentagon and Callihan here.
  • While Fenix and Rich Swann are on the same side in this match, they will be opponents at Slammiversary. They are two of the four competitors (along with Taiji Ishimori and Johnny Impact) involved in the fatal 4-way match.

WWE Announces 2nd Confirmed Mae Young Classic 2018 Participant

WWE has announced the name of the second confirmed wrestler for the 2018 Mae Young Classic. Yesterday, the company announced that former Divas Champion, Kaitlyn, was the first to officially enter the tournament.

Today, WWE unveiled Australia’s Rhea Ripley will be back in the tournament this year. The 21-year-old got her start wrestling in Melbourne’s Riot City Wrestling from 2013 to 2017. After a solid performance at last year’s tournament, WWE signed Ripley and sent her to the Performance Center in Orlando.

Rhea Ripley

In last year’s tournament, Ripley defeated Miranda Salinas in the first round before losing to Dakota Kai in the next.

Since signing with WWE last year, Ripley has been active on the NXT house show circuit. She has only competed once on NXT television, however, participating in a battle royal on the October 4th, 2017 edition of the show.

“The hard-hitting Ripley, who began wrestling as a teenager and competed in Japan before joining NXT, is considered one of the strongest women in the WWE PC weight room” WWE’s press release states. “In addition to a wide arsenal of power moves, Ripley boasts wicked striking ability, which can be traced back her extensive background in soccer.”

2018 Mae Young Classic

This year’s version of the Mae Young Classic will take place on August 8th and 9th from Full Sail University. As was the case with last year’s tournament, the finals will take place at a later date and likely air live on the WWE Network.

Last year’s winner, Kairi Sane, competes in NXT. The other finalist from last year, Shayna Baszler, is now the NXT Women’s Champion.

Abbey Laith (Kimber Lee), Sage Beckett, and Zeda were signed after last year’s tournament but have since been released.

Candice LeRae, Kavita Devi, and Shayna Baszler all signed shortly after the tournament. Serena Deeb would also sign with WWE but as a trainer assigned to the WWE Performance Center.

Reason For Brock Lesnar Not Being Mentioned On Raw Revealed

On Monday night, WWE presented Raw from Boston. Despite Brock Lesnar’s newsworthy appearance at UFC 226 with Daniel Cormier over the weekend, no mention was ever made of Lesnar on the show.

According to a recent report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Vince McMahon gave the direction for him not to be mentioned.

“At the production meeting before Raw, McMahon told everyone that the show in Boston is to focus completely on building Extreme Rules, a show Lesnar isn’t on, so his name wasn’t to be mentioned,” the report reads.

As for when Brock will be mentioned on WWE programming again, McMahon said: “When he’s being offered to our audience and we can capitalize on it.”

Brock Lesnar and WWE

WWE is continuing the angle where Brock is seen as the part-time outsider who doesn’t really care about WWE. Roman Reigns is portraying the company savior, the one who shows up every week. The idea, once again, is to get people to cheer Roman.

Roman Reigns vs Brock Lesnar

Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns have been in 5 matches together not including the 2015 and 2017 Royal Rumbles.

  • WrestleMania 31
    WWE World Heavyweight Championship
    Triple Threat
    Seth Rollins defeated Brock Lesnar (c) and Roman Reigns
  • Fastlane 2016
    #1 Contenders Match
    Triple Threat
    Roman Reigns defeated Dean Ambrose and Brock Lesnar
  • SummerSlam 2017
    WWE Universal Championship
    Fatal 4-way
    Brock Lesnar (c) defeated Braun Strowman, Roman Reigns, and Samo Joe
  • WrestleMania 34
    WWE Universal Championship
    Brock Lesnar (c) defeated Roman Reigns
  • Greatest Royal Rumble
    WWE Universal Championship
    Steel Cage
    Brock Lesnar (c) defeated Roman Reigns

Brock Lesnar is 3-1-1 against Roman Reigns. Reigns is 1-3-1 against Brock.

Lars Sullivan Injury Update

Following his main event NXT title match with Aleister Black at Takeover, WWE announced Lars Sullivan had suffered a broken jaw. The promotion event sent out an X-Ray of Sullivan’s injury through their social media accounts.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter had originally reported the injury as legit. They have now released a correction, however, stating that Sullivan’s broken jaw is just a part of his storyline. He did not actually suffer an injury at Takeover but that is the story WWE wants to tell.

It is not known when NXT will bring back Sullivan. The injury was likely a way to protect Sullivan while still having him lose to Black as it gives his character an excuse as to why he lost.

Sullivan’s loss to Aleister Black was his first loss in a single’s match on NXT programming.

Triple H on Lars Sullivan

Following Takeover: Chicago II, Triple H spoke with Cathy Kelley. He spoke in regards to how Sullivan’s loss to Aleister Black will likely make him stronger.

“Here’s the thing, size, and strength but how long has (Lars) been doing this?” Triple H asked. “That’s really the unknown factor of how good can he become.”

“Lars Sullivan has been here for a cup of coffee, been in the ring for a cup of coffee,” Triple H said on Sullivan’s experience level. “Not someone who has spent years and years doing this.”

Triple H then talked about Lars’ performance in the main event that night.

“I don’t think there was a moment in there where he looked like he didn’t belong,” Triple H said. “To me, that is the ultimate victory. That Lars Sullivan, at this point in his career, was able to go toe-to-toe with Aleister Black.”

“He could be the most dangerous person here and this loss might actually be a blessing for him.”

Update on Rey Mysterio’s Negotiations With WWE

Rey Mysterio and WWE are continuing to engage in contract negotiations but there are a few sticking points which might delay the luchador’s return to the company. Namely, Mysterio has commitments outside of WWE he would like to keep. One of those commitments is Cody and the Young Bucks’ “All-In”.

A recent report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter is stating that the two sides have come close to a deal but Mysterio’s commitments are all that is left to be worked out.

“While Rey Mysterio has not signed with WWE, the discussions are close enough that they’ve talked about what commitments he has and doesn’t have left,” the report reads. “All-In is obviously a key thing.”

The report continues to say WWE would rather Mysterio not work the event.

Rey Mysterio at All-In?

Mysterio was announced as being All-In back in May. He appeared on Jim Ross’ podcast last month and spoke about the Chicago-based event on September 1st. Ross asked him who he thinks his opponent will be on the show.

“I don’t have a clue yet,” said Mysterio. “I’m sure they have something good cooked up because they’ve been doing this very methodical and just the way they announced the show, the way they’ve announced talent little by little. It’s a good strategy, so I’m sure they have a good show lined up.”

Rey added that he’s been in touch with Cody and The Young Bucks, who are giving him input regarding who he works with at the show.

619 Day In San Diego

On June 19th (6/19) the city of San Diego declared a holiday to celebrate one of their most famous residents. Media at the event asked Mysterio what his status with WWE is.

“I’m actually getting ready to go back to possibly a WWE contract, so – we’re talking about another three years if my body hangs tight and holds on.”

Tama Tonga Reveals More About Bullet Club Civil War Angle

On Saturday night from the Cow Palace, the Tongan members of Bullet Club attacked members of the Elite. Bullet Club’s “Firing Squad” is comprised of Tama Tonga, Tanga Loa, Haku, HIKULEO, and Bad Luck Fale. They insist their faction has no leader.

Following the attack, Tonga sat down with Sports Illustrated. He was asked what led to the attack in the closing moments of the G1 Special in San Francisco.

“This has been a long time coming,” said Tonga. “Kenny Omega started a subgroup, ‘The Elite,’ within Bullet Club. No one is the head of Bullet Club, no one ever has been, and we had a self-proclaimed leader focusing on his own ‘Super Kliq’ or whatever else nerd ass name it’s called. This war was sparked the moment ‘The Elite’ was formed.”

“Fale is the one who made the call,” continued Tonga. “You’ll all find that out soon.”

Fale was shown on the Guerillas of Destiny YouTube channel recently phoning other members of the group and saying it was time.

Tama Tonga on Differences Between NJPW Bullet Club vs ROH Bullet Club

“Rank is how Japan is run, and that’s how Bullet Club—true Bullet Club—is run. Not egotistical clowns running around, shouting ‘Look at me!’ True Bullet Club is discipline and order.”

Some NJPW Bullet Club fans have expressed the sentiment that the version of Bullet Club which exists outside of Japan is a little silly. These fans have been calling for a return of the old Bullet Club and Tama Tonga is the guy they place their faith in.

“The ones putting in the work day in and day out in Japan, we were cast away,” said Tonga. “We tried, over time, to give them the benefit of the doubt, but it kept getting worse. The ideals of Bullet Club working together, being a team, and watching each other’s backs was no longer what we stood for. We were a divided club. It was just too much to ignore.”

Tama Tonga on The Firing Squad

“I am not the leader of Bullet Club,” Tonga explained. “Fale, me, and Loa, we are the leaders of Bullet Club and anyone that’s with us. We are not ‘Firing Squad,’ we are Bullet Club, the Bullet Club. ‘Firing Squad’ only arrives when there is bulls— and betrayal.”

Tama Tonga and Kenny Omega are in the same Block in this year’s G1. They will meet in 9 days on Saturday, July 21st, 2018.

The full G1 Climax 28 schedule is available here.

Kota Ibushi Comments On Facing Kenny Omega In The G1

Golden Lovers teammates, Kota Ibushi and Kenny Omega, will face each other in the round-robin of this year’s G1 tournament. The two will meet on Saturday, August 11th, 2018, the final night of the round-robin. The match will take place inside the same venue as their last match did, the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo.

The last time Kenny Omega and Kota Ibushi met, Ibushi was banned from performing in the famed Nippon Budokan again. Ibushi delivered a moonsault from the balcony, causing the venue to state he was not allowed to wrestle there anymore. The venue has since lifted his ban, however.

Author, Chris Charlton, provided a translation of Ibushi’s comments:

Kota Ibushi vs Kenny Omega – August 11th, 2018 – Nippon Budokan – Tokyo, Japan

“I hate it. Hate that I have to face (Kenny Omega). It’s like ‘the time has finally come’. To have Kenny last, that’s a really dangerous scenario. The finals are the very next night, remember. But we have to do it. I don’t have all the time in the world, so we have to do this.”

Ibushi also spoke about his feelings regarding the rest of the B Block this year.

“It’s the more athletic group I think,” Ibushi said. “It’ll be a more athletic, physical style in these matches. People that stand out, of course, Kenny, Naito, SANADA. He’s interesting. I  haven’t wrestled him before. I think there’s something about him he hasn’t shown. I want to get that out of him.”