Author: Tyriece Simon

  • West Coast Pro Wrestling: West Coast Best Coast Results

    West Coast Pro Wrestling: West Coast Best Coast Results

    West Coast Pro Wrestling held its live event, West Coast Best Coast, on March 4 at the United Irish Cultural Center in San Francisco, California.

    The event had West Coast Pro Champion Titus Alexander defend his title against Nick Wayne in a Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match. Alexander and Wayne went to a time-limit draw the last time they wrestled against each other. Another match on the card had “Speedball” Mike Bailey taking on Timothy Thatcher. WWE Hall of Famer Lita attended to help crown the new West Coast Pro Women’s Champion as Masha Slamovich faced Sandra Moone.

    For fans that want to watch West Coast Pro Wrestling: West Coast Best Coast, you can subscribe to IWTV for $9.99.

    West Coast Pro Wrestling: West Coast Best Coast Results

    1. Bret The Threat def. Jiah Jewell
    2. Alpha Zo, Juicy Finau & AJ Gray def. Los Suavecitos & Adrian Quest
    3. Masha Slamovich def. Sandra Moone – West Coast Pro Women’s Championship Match
    4. Aramis, Rey Horus & Viento def. Latigo, Toxin & Black Taurus
    5. West Coast Wrecking Crew (Jorel Nelson & Royce Issac) def. Miracle Generation (Dustin Waller & Kylon King)
    6. Vinnie Massaro def. Rickey Shane Page- No DQ Match
    7. “Speedball” Mike Bailey def. Timothy Thatcher
    8. Bryan Keith and Starboy Charlie def. Kevin Blackwood and Alan Angels
    9. (C) Titus Alexander def. Nick Wayne in a Tables, Ladders & Chairs Match for the West Coast Pro Championship
  • Wrestling Revolver: Drip Results

    Wrestling Revolver: Drip Results

    Wrestling Revolver held its live event, Drip, on March 4 at the Horizon Events Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

    The event had a mix of talent from Impact Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling, and other independent promotions. The card saw Revolver World Champion Steve Maclin defending his title against Rich Swann in an Iowa Street Fight. Both wrestlers work for Impact Wrestling but can compete for independent promotions. Another match on the card had The Bullet Club’s Chris Bey and Ace Austin defending their Revolver World Tag Team Championships against The Rascalz’s Trey Miguel and Zachary Wentz and The Second Gear Crew’s Matthew Justice and Mance Warner.

    The event went live on FITE for their subscription service, FITE+, for free. To subscribe, fans wanting to watch the card and other Wrestling Revolver events must pay 7.99.

    Wrestling Revolver: Drip Results

    1. (C) Steve Maclin def. Rich Swann in an Iowa Street Fight Match for the Revolver World Championship
    2. (C) Rocky Romero def. Jake Crist vs. Lince Dorado in a CMLL World Historic Welterweight Championship Match
    3. 1 Called Manders def. Crash Jaxon in a Hoss Match
    4. (C) Alex Shelley def. Matthew Palmer in a Revolver Remix Championship Match
    5. The UNIT (JT Dunn & Infrared w/ Phil Stamper) def. The Death Dollz (Rosemary, Taya Valkyrie, & JesSICKa) in a No DQ Trios Match
    6. Fulton with Matthew Rehwoldt def. Dan the Dad
    7. Johnny Revolver def. Ninja Mack
    8. Kushida def. Jonathan Gresham
    9. The Rascalz (Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz) def. The Second Gear Crew (Matthew Justice & Mance Warner) & (C) The Bullet Club (Chris Bey & Ace Austin) in a Revolver World Tag Team Championship Match
  • Game Changer Wrestling: Holy Smokes Results

    Game Changer Wrestling: Holy Smokes Results

    Game Changer Wrestling held its event Holy Smokes on March 4 at the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

    GCW: Holy Smokes featured Ultraviolent Champion Rina Yamashita defending her title against Kasey Kirk. Her last successful title defense was against Ciclope at GCW Fight Club on Sep. 10, 2022. Another match on the card had Hijo Del Vikingo take on Alex Zayne.

    The event went live on FITE for their subscription service, FITE+, for free. Fans wanting to watch the card on Video on Demand must pay $7.99 to subscribe. The promotion will hold another live event on March 5 for FITE+ members.

    GCW: Holy Smokes Results

    1. Gringo Loco def. Carlos Romo, Jimmy Lloyd, Shane Mercer, Alec Price & Grim Reefer in a 6-Way Scramble Match
    2. (C) Jordan Oliver def. Alex Coughlin- JCW Championship Match
    3. Blake Christian def. Akira
    4. (C) Joey Janela def. Veny- GCW Extreme Championship Match
    5. Effy def. Slade
    6. (C) Los Macizos(Ciclope & Miedo Extremo) def. SAT(Joel Maximo & Jose Maximo)- GCW Tag Team Championship Match
    7. Hijo Del Vikingo def. Alex Zayne
    8. (C) Rina Yamashita def. Kasey Kirk- GCW Ultraviolent Championship Match
    9. Maki Itoh def. LuFisto
    10. John Wayne Murdoch def. Drew Parker
  • Invictus Pro Wrestling: The Get Down Results

    Invictus Pro Wrestling: The Get Down Results

    Invictus Pro Wrestling held their live event, The Get Down, on Independent Wrestling TV on March 3 at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT.

    The event had Invictus Grand Champion Ken Broadway defend his title against MV Young in the main event. Broadway’s last successful title defense was against Adam Brooks at Invictus Pro Wrestling: The Many Saints of Ridgefield Park on Dec. 30, 2022. Another match on the card was Big Game Leroy taking on J Boujii in a Cheat Code match.

    For fans that want to watch Invictus Pro Wrestling: The Get Down, you can subscribe to IWTV for $9.99. If you would like more results for this week’s events in wrestling, please check back on our results section.

    Invictus Pro Wrestling: The Get Down Results

    1. PJ Savage def. JS Hawthorne
    2. (C) Fight Or Die def. Max Zero and Travis Huckabee- Invictus Pro Tag Team Championship
    3. Clara Carreras def. (C) Edith Surreal- Invictus Pro Women’s Championship
    4. J Boujii def. Big Game Leroy- Cheat Code Match
    5. Ben Bishop def. Carlie Bravo
    6. Nicholi White won the Friends Who Fight Rumble match to become the number one contender for the Invictus Grand Championship
    7. (C) Ken Broadway def. MV Young- Invictus Grand Championship
  • Impact Wrestling Results (3/2/23): Trey Miguel vs. PCO, King vs. Knight

    Impact Wrestling Results (3/2/23): Trey Miguel vs. PCO, King vs. Knight

    The March 2 episode of Impact Wrestling aired on AXS TV at 8 PM EST/5 PM PT.

    This week’s episode was promoted as the fallout from their No Surrender event. X Division Champion Trey Miguel faced PCO on the March 2 episode. Another match on the card was Kenny King taking on Kevin Knight.

    Impact Wrestling also aired on their Youtube channel for Impact Insider subscribers. The company offers a monthly subscription to watch weekly episodes on Youtube for $1.49. Unfortunately, it aired at 8:30 PM ET/5:30 PM PT.

    If you would like more results for this week’s events in wrestling, please check back on our results section.

    Impact Wrestling Results (3/2)

    The show started with The Bullet Club (Chris Bey & Ace Austin) opening the show with a promo in the ring. They boasted about their win at No Surrender when they teamed with Kenta to defeat The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley) and Kushida. The Motor City Machine Guns interrupt their promo and challenged The Bullet Club to take them on for their Impact Tag Team Championships tonight. Both Bey and Austin agree and we get a title match tonight.

    We got a backstage interview with Rich Swann. He reflected on his loss against Josh Alexander at No Surrender. Raj Singh and Shera interrupted the interview, which upsets Swann. Swann challenges them to a fight, but Singh leaves with Shera and says another time.

    “Speedball” Mike Bailey vs. Shane Haste

    The match started with Mike Bailey and Shane Haste exchanging holds, with neither wrestler getting the better of the exchange. They locked up again; this time, Haste got the better of Bailey and did a Snapmare into a Dropkick to the back of Bailey’s head. Haste tried to continue his offense, but Bailey returned with multiple kicks to send Haste to the outside.

    Bailey tried to do a Suicide Dive to the outside but got caught with a European Uppercut. Haste followed the move by landing a Back Suplex on Bailey into the ring apron. He rolled his opponent back into the ring and controlled the match for several minutes.

    The match turned when Haste puts Bailey on the top turnbuckle to set up a Superplex, but Bailey knocks Haste down and lands a Missile Dropkick. Bailey tries to maintained control but gets caught with a Back Suplex into a Cutter for a two-count. Bailey countered the Dynamic Bomb into a Backslide but does get the win. He did a Schoolboy to send Haste to the outside and then lands a Moonsault to the outside on Haste. The action gets back to the ring, Bailey tries to land double knee from the middle rope on his opponent, but missed. Haste lands the Dynamic Bomb for a near fall. The finish comes when Bailey lands the Ultimate Weapon on Haste for the win.

    We got a backstage segment with The Design. Alan Angels tried to convince Deaner that Sami Callihan was not a good fit for the faction. Rhino interrupts to tell them to leave Callihan alone. Callihan interrupted and said The Design was not manipulating him and that he wanted to be a member of the faction. Rhino said he is going to have to beat some sense into him. Deaner says that the next stage of Callihan’s training is to beat Rhino.

    Kenny King vs. Kevin Knight

    The match started with Kevin Knight trying to shake Kenny King’s hand but got caught with a jab to the face. King tried to Irish Whip Knight and go for a Hip Toss, but Knight countered and started to take control. The action went to the outside, where Knight and King tried to take action, but both would counter. King threw Knight back into the ring, and when he was not looking, Knight landed a Senton to the outside on King.

    Knight threw King back into the ring and tried to pin for a two count. Knight tried to go for a Springboard, but King kicked the rope to make him fall. After he fell, King landed a big Clothesline to ground Knight. King began to take control of the match until Knight caught King with a Spinning Backbreaker. As Knight tried to gain the advantage, King lands a Spinebuster for a two count. The finish comes when King landed the Royal Flush for the win.

    We get a backstage interview with Alexander. He said he must beat Kushida at Multiverse of Matches to face Steve Maclin at Rebellion. He challenges Kushida to team with the Motor City Machine Guns in a six-man tag match against two partners he will figure out. Maclin interrupted the interview and told Alexander not to lose the title before facing him at Rebellion.

    We got another backstage segment where we have a doctor providing an update on Tommy Dreamer. Bully Ray interrupted and told the doctor that he would finish the job. Bhupinder Gujjar confronts Ray for what he did to Dreamer at No Surrender. Ray Slapped Gujjar as backstage officials held Gujjar back.

    Mickie James Speaks to The Crowd

    Knockout World Champion Mickie James addressed the crowd after her win at No Surrender. She said that she had unfinished business with Jordynne Grace. However, Gisele Shaw with Jai Vidal and Savannah Evans interrupted her. Shaw noted that James was running from her and that this version of her could beat James. The champion responded that Shaw doesn’t have to wait for Grace to get her opportunity first. Gail Kim came out to announce that James will defend the title against Shaw in the near future.

    Moose and Brian Myers have a backstage segment. Moose said he would help him beat Joe Hendry for the Digital Media Championship.

    We got another backstage segment with Santino Marella and Grace. She said she thought she was the next challenger for the Knockouts Championship, but Kim made the announcement. Marella said that she was guaranteed to face the winner.

    Trey Miguel vs. PCO

    The match started with Miguel trying to avoid being cornered up by PCO. Miguel avoided strikes from PCO and landed kicks to his opponent’s leg. He went for a Headlock, but PCO overpowered him. He landed a Clothesline into the corner and followed it up with a Running Clothesline. The action went to the outside. PCO controlled the match until he missed Senton landing on his back outside the ring. We went for a commercial break.

    After the break, PCO caught Miguel with a Pop Up Powerbomb. PCO dominated the match until Eddie Edwards attacked PCO, leading to a DQ win for PCO. PCO turned his attention to Edwards, who got the better of him before security guards came out to stop him. The security guards tried to get Edwards away on the outside, but PCO landed a Moonsault from the top rope on all the security. Edwards managed to escape as PCO stood tall in the ring.

    We got the announcement for next week’s matches. Shaw will challenge James for the Impact Knockouts Championship, Rhino will face Callihan, and Jonathan Gresham will take on Kushida.

    (C) Motor City Machine Guns(Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley) vs. The Bullet Club(Chris Bey & Ace Austin) for Impact World Tag Team Championships

    The match started with Austin and Sabin exchanging wrist holds, which no one got the better of. They attempted to lock up, but Austin landed a kick to the gut of Sabin. Austin used his speed to get the better of Sabin. Shelley blind tagged into the match, and he and his partner got Austin into the ground to land double kicks.

    Austin drove Shelley to his corner for Bey to tag in. Bey puts Shelley in a Headlock, but Shelley shoves him into the ropes to catch him with a Shoulder Block. Shelley tried to capitalize, but Bey used his speed to get the momentum back on his side. Shelley exchanged strikes with Bey before Sabin blind tagged in the match to land a Clothesline on Bey. The Motor City Machine Gun started to control Bey. Sabin tagged Shelley back into the match to do a tag team move, but Bey countered to tag Austin as the The Bullet Club landed Dropkicks on their opponents. The Bullet Club than did a Suicide Dive on the Motor City Machine Guns. Bey and Austin took the action back into the ring as they double team Shelley.

    Austin started to work on his arm of Shelley. Taking a card from his sleeve, he racked Shelley’s hand with it. Austin tagged Bey into the match, dominating Shelley until the champion landed a diving knee drop to Bey’s arm. Sabin tagged in, holding Bey for Shelley to kick his opponent’s arm. Shelley tagged back into the match as they focused on Bey’s arm for several minutes.

    Still legal in the ring, Bey landed a kick to the head of Shelley as they both tagged out. Austin got the better of Sabin by using his speed. The Bullet Club started taking control of the match, using their teamwork and speed against the Motor City Machine Guns. Austin tagged in Bey as they tried for a tag team move, but Shelley took out Austin. They started to work on Bey’s arm again, but Bey landed a Cutter on both of them. Austin comes into to do a tag team move, but he got taken out again. Shelley was the legal man and put Bey in the Border City Stretch. Austin tried to make the save, but Sabin landed the Cradle Shock to take him out. Bey reverse the hold into a pin, but Shelley kicked out. The finish comes when Bey landed the Art of Finesse on Shelley. Austin followed the move with The Fold for Bey to get the pin.

  • Finn Balor Comments on Dominik Mysterio’s Transformation

    Finn Balor Comments on Dominik Mysterio’s Transformation

    WWE superstar Finn Balor shared some encouraging words for Dominik Mysterio’s development in the company.

    Mysterio has risen as one of the biggest heels in the WWE. He made the change at Clash at the Castle on Sep. 3, 2022, when he betrayed his father, Rey, and Edge. Two days later, he would align himself with The Judgement Day(Balor, Rhea Ripley, and Damien Priest) to become a faction member. After several months of working with The Judgement Day, Dominik has started to get out of the shadow of his father.

    In an interview with The Bump’s Kayla Braxton and Matt Camp, Balor spoke highly about Dominik’s transformation as a heel talent. While expressing his thoughts, Balor stayed in character during the interview.

    “You know, it kind of makes me sad a little bit that Dominik hasn’t received the support from his family. The fact that he’s growing and achieving so much in a short time, but without that backbone or family support, it’s quite incredible, said Balor.

    He continued, “…At the same time, you know my family has always supported me, so I take that kind of for granted that people should be supported by their family and the fact that Rey has continuously not shown support, not shown interest in his sons development and career, it’s quite saddening. So myself, Damian(Priest) and Rhea(Ripley) all been a shoulder for Dom to lean on and I think he’s stepped out of his father shadow in such a short time and I think he’s going to make his father pay.”

    Will Dominik Challenge His Father At WrestleMania 39?

    Dominik Mysterio Rey Mysterio
    Photo Credit: WWE

    It seems the WWE is looking to have Dominik face his father at WrestleMania 39, but it’s unclear in what way. Dominik and The Judgement Day have antagonized his father since he joined them. On the Feb. 24 episode of Friday Night Smackdown, Rey came close to attacking his son but chose to walk away. It’s possible WWE could be setting up a father vs. son match at WrestleMania 39. However, the company has also teased that Santos Escobar may assist Rey in dealing with his son.

    During a backstage segment on the Feb. 24 episode, Escobar and Dominik had a brief confrontation about respecting Rey. Before Escobar could do anything to Dominik, Rhea stepped in the way, and the “couple” walked away. It’s possible the WWE can have a tag team match with Escobar and Rey against Dominik and Priest, as Priest is not involved in a match for WrestleMania 39.

    Wrestling fans will have to wait and see how the ongoing story of Rey and Dominik will develop on the road to WrestleMania.

  • Potential Spoiler on WrestleMania 39 Celebrity Appearance

    Potential Spoiler on WrestleMania 39 Celebrity Appearance

    WWE may have revealed a surprise celebrity appearance for WrestleMania 39.

    We’re just one month out from WWE’s biggest show of the year, WrestleMania. It’s all scheduled to go down Saturday, April 1 and Sunday, April 2 at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

    On Wednesday, WWE revealed a new promotional poster for the event. Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes are featured most prominently, with over a dozen Superstars featured below.

    You’ve got Brock Lesnar, John Cena, Charlotte Flair, Seth Rollins, Logan Paul and wait, is that Snoop Dogg? Why yes, it is, that’s WWE Hall of Famer Snoop Dogg. WWE has yet to announce Snoop’s involvement, but something is brewing.

    Celebrity Involvement For WrestleMania 39

    It seems WWE will be looking to have celebrities involved in this year’s WrestleMania. Last year, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter noted that WWE wanted to get several celebrity involvements for the event. However, the report didn’t share who the WWE wanted.

    A celebrity that could appear on the show is Latin superstar Bad Bunny, who has competed in WWE. On the Masked Man Show on Dec. 1, 2022, Kazeem Famuyide shared that he heard that WWE wanted to have Bad Bunny challenge Dominik Mysterio at WrestleMania 39. However, it seems the company is leaning towards a father vs. son match at the event. It’s still possible for Bad Bunny to appear, but he may not wrestle.

    Snoop Dogg WWE Championship

    Regarding Snoop Dogg, fans may remember that he was involved in the WrestleMania 39 Launch Party on Aug. 11, 2022. At the event, WWE gave him a gold WWE Championship, which other celebrities have been seen with the title after he “lost” it. Its possible fans will Snoop Dogg and his title involved at WrestleMania 39.

    What celebrity would you want to appear at this year’s WrestleMania? Let us know in the comments.

  • WWE Told Bryan Danielson He Could Never Be “The Guy” After WrestleMania 30

    WWE Told Bryan Danielson He Could Never Be “The Guy” After WrestleMania 30

    All Elite Wrestling superstar Bryan Danielson has revealed that he was told a disheartening comment about his place in WWE.

    WrestleMania 30 on April 6, 2014, marked a big moment for Danielson as he ended the event as WWE World Heavyweight Champion. While WrestleMania positioned Danielson as the face of WWE, it would be short-lived as he had to lose the title due to an injury on June 9, 2014.

    He would return to in-ring competition for WWE on Jan. 15, 2015, to resume his career. However, he suffered another injury months later that took him out of action and made him retire from wrestling for two years. Danielson would return to wrestle in WWE at WrestleMania 34 on April 8, 2018, and he ended his career with the company on May 5, 2021.

    In an interview with Uproxx, Danielson revealed even after his win at WrestleMania 30, WWE didn’t consider him the face of the WWE. Uproxx’s Raj Prashad transcribed the following quotes.

    “After WrestleMania 30, when I had won the championship and just main evented WrestleMania, they had a meeting with me where it was like, ‘Okay, what we’d really like is to do is to set this other guy up to be the guy,’” he says. “I think the phrase was the next John Cena. And I was like, ‘I would like to be the next John Cena,’ (and they said) nobody can be John Cena.”
    He continued, “I literally just main evented WrestleMania, and you’re already telling me directly — and I actually appreciated that — that you don’t see me as the guy,” he continues. “That’s good for me because (I knew) this is what I have to overcome if I want to be that. I never got there in WWE as far as being the company’s guy. “

    Bryan Danielson

    New Opportunities For Bryan Danielson in AEW

    Bryan Danielson
    (via AEW)

    In AEW, Danielson has earned different opportunities to become the “company guy” he wasn’t in WWE. On March 5 at AEW Revolution, Danielson will challenge MJF for the AEW World Championship. He believes in AEW when you defeat the AEW World Champion, you are considered “the guy” in the company.

    “The AEW World Championship is the centerpiece of the promotion,” said Danielson. He explained, “You can’t say that about every wrestling company in the world, but you can say that about AEW. That’s why guys like Jon Moxley have been considered the man in AEW for the last couple years, Kenny (Omega), a little bit after that. When you’re the champion, you’re the one in charge of carrying the company. And it would be … for really the first time since I was in Ring of Honor that I’d get the opportunity to do that.”

    It’s unclear if AEW will have Danielson remove the title from MJF on March 5. However, AEW presents a chance for Danielson to be considered “The company guy” for a major wrestling promotion.

  • MLW Underground Results (2/28/23), Davey Richards vs. John Hennigan

    MLW Underground Results (2/28/23), Davey Richards vs. John Hennigan

    Major League Wrestling held their weekly episode Underground on Feb. 28 at 10 PM ET/ 7 PM PT on Reelz TV.

    The episode had MLW National Openweight Champion Davey Richards defend his title against John Hennigan. The match was set up last week after Hennigan attacked Richards, and the champion wanted revenge.

    MLW fans can watch Underground if they have select cable providers like Direct TV, Verizon Fios, or Spectrum. For people without cable, you can only watch it on Sling TV or Philo. Reelz TV has a page on its website for where to find the channel, depending on your zip code.

    If you would like more results for this week’s events in wrestling, please check back on our results section.

    MLW Underground Quick Results (2/28)

    The episode starts with a recap from last week’s episode. We get a video package hyping the MLW National Openweight Championship match.

    • After the video package, we see Alex Kane call out Davey Boy Smith Jr. and the Billington Bulldogs on the MLW’s stage ramp. Smith and the Billington Bulldogs come out and get into a quick brawl against Kane and the Bomaye Fight Club. The backstage officials separate them, but Smith lands an elbow to Kane’s face before we start the episode.
    • Lince Dorado & Mircoman def. Delirious & Mini Abismo Negro via a quick pin from Mircoman on Negro. After the match, the lights go off, and a group of masked people enter the ring to attack Dorado and Microman as we go to a commercial break.
    • After the commercial break, we get an off-site segment with MLW World Heavyweight Champion Alex Hammerstone. He speaks about getting the squid from a masked person last week. He believes that Jacob Fatu and The Samoan Swat Team are behind it. He tells Fatu and his faction to do better next time.
    • After the Hammerstone segment, we get another off-site segment with Mance Warner, 1 Called Manders, & Matthew Justice. Justice and Manders bail Warner out of jail for hitting Real1 with a car last week. They tease that the group will start competing in MLW.
    • Billie Starkz def. Kayla Kassidy with a variation of Electric Chair into a piledriver.
    • We get an interview with Taya Valkyrie on the stage ramp. Valkyrie shared her excitement for Hennigan being in MLW and says they will both be champions. Starkz goes to confront Valkyrie, and she respects what she does. However, before Starkz can say anything else, Valkyrie dismisses her and believes she isn’t good enough to wrestle her.
    • We get a backstage segment with Kane. He says that if The Billington Bulldogs defeat Myron Reed and Mr. Thomas, he will accept a challenge against Smith.
    • We cut to a backstage segment with Juicy Finau and E.J. Nduka having a brawl backstage before MLW goes to a commercial break.
    • John Hennigan def. (C) Davey Richards with Valkyrie and Cesar Duran for the National Openweight Championship after Valkyrie hit Richards with the MLW Women’s Featherweight Championship.

    MLW Match Highlights

    John Hennigan def. Davey Richards for the National Openweight Championship

    Billie Starkz def. Kayla Kassidy

    Lince Dorado & Mircoman def. Delirious & Mini Abismo Negro

  • Reelz Channel To Stream On Peacock, Except for MLW Programming

    Reelz Channel To Stream On Peacock, Except for MLW Programming

    The Reelz Channel will have a great opportunity to reach a bigger audience on Peacock. However, Major League Wrestling will lose out.

    MLW has tried to find a bigger audience to compete with wrestling promotions like WWE and All Elite Wrestling. MLW alleged and sued WWE last year with claims that WWE stopped them from reaching a deal with Tubi and interfered with their relationship with Vice TV. On Feb. 13, the judge on the MLW v. WWE antitrust lawsuit case dismissed MLW’s complaint against WWE, which allowed them to amend their complaint. The ruling was because the judge believed MLW lacked sufficient facts to prove their case.

    During their lawsuit with WWE, MLW reached a deal with Reelz. On Tuesday, MLW does their weekly episode of MLW Underground at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT on the Reelz Channel. The deal would benefit MLW, as they could have TV exposure and grow their fanbase. On Feb. 28, Reelz made a deal with Peacock, who has a streaming deal with WWE. This has resulted in MLW losing out on another opportunity.

    MLW New Logo

    Reelz Deal with Peacock, Leaves MLW Out

    NBC’s Universal streaming service Peacock signed an exclusive streaming rights deal with WWE on Jan. 25, 2021. The agreement has worked out successfully for NBCU as they get monthly live events from WWE and the library, which has helped gain subscribers. However, it also means that a competitive wrestling company like MLW couldn’t also air on Peacock.

    The Hollywood Reporter’s Alex Werpin shared details about Reelz’s deal with Peacock and why MLW will not be involved.

    “…While it will include the channel’s live linear feed, it will not stream Tuesdays in the 10 p.m. hour, as Reelz airs Major League Wrestling in that hour. Peacock has a streaming deal with the WWE, which has exclusivity in the category on Peacock,” wrote Werpin.

    The Reelz Channel will still be available for different cable providers like Direct TV and Verizon Fios, so MLW will still have a chance to gain an audience. However, airing on Peacock would’ve benefitted them greatly.

  • Chael Sonnen Reveals WWE’s Million Dollar Offer to Backstab the UFC

    Chael Sonnen Reveals WWE’s Million Dollar Offer to Backstab the UFC

    Former UFC Middleweight Chael Sonnen has shared a crazy story about an offer WWE gave him if he had beat Anderson Silva in 2010.

    Sonnen has spoken publicly about his love for wrestling, which he has used to help influence how he promoted his fights. He’s also shared in the past that he tried out to be a professional wrestler in 1998 at the WCW Power Plant in Atlanta when he was a sophomore in college. He got accepted and wanted to train after he finished college, but WWE bought WCW by the time he graduated.

    While that seemed to end Sonnen’s journey as a professional wrestler, he almost had another opportunity.

    WWE’s Indecent Proposal to Chael Sonnen

    In 2010, Sonnen had a rivalry with former UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva. They would fight at UFC 117 on Aug. 7, 2010, for the middleweight title in the main event. In the fight, Sonnen fought well and could’ve defeated Silva by decision. However, Silva submitted him with a Triangle Armbar in the fifth round to retain his title.

    UFC 117
    Via UFC Youtube Channel

    In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Sonnen shared that WWE discussed with him that if he won, they wanted him to appear on Monday Night Raw for $1 Million under one condition.

    “…I was just getting ready to fight Anderson Silva, and they said if you beat Anderson and you show up on Raw with the belt, we’ll give you a million dollars, but you can’t tell Dana. The whole thing is you can’t tell Dana the million dollars is to stick it in Dana’s a**, said Sonnen. He continued, “Till this day, I would’ve done it. I would’ve taken the belt. I would’ve been on Raw, I just don’t know how I would’ve stuck it to Dana. I don’t understand how Dana would have any problem with that. I never understood that part.”

    WWE hasn’t commented on Sonnen’s claims, and it’s unclear what WWE’s motives would be in trying to offend UFC President Dana White in 2010. Wrestling fans will never know what would’ve happened if Sonnen had appeared on Monday Night Raw.

  • Get To Know: The Black Rasslin Podcast

    Get To Know: The Black Rasslin Podcast

    In the latest installment of our Get to Know series, we bring you a special interview with The Black Rasslin Podcast.

    Wrestling podcasts are becoming a competitive business as content creators try to gain a thriving fanbase. Amid this competitiveness, many content creators try to separate themselves from the pack. However, some creators, like the Black Rasslin Podcast, feel the need to support others and want to unite the community.

    The Black Rasslin Podcast is among the more successful independent wrestling podcasts today. They have not only made a name for themselves but, with their platform, try to promote and help others.

    I spoke with Khal, Fam, and Drip from The Black Rasslin Podcast about how they got started, why they share their platform with others, and their upcoming project that fans should be excited about.

    Here’s the video of our discussion, followed by written highlights.

    How Did The Black Rasslin Podcast Begin?

    Khal started the original concept of The Black Rasslin Podcast in 2011 from his admiration for hip-hop podcasters like Cipha Sounds, Peter Rosenberg, and Combat Jack. Listening to the Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez, he wanted to blend wrestling and hip-hop. Unfortunately, he had to put the podcast on hiatus after a year due to his job. However, the time away from doing The Black Rasslin Podcast led to his meeting Fam and Matth, who did a hip-hop podcast called Where’s Buffy.

    Having the common bond of wrestling and hip-hop, in late 2016, Khal and Fam discussed resurrecting The Black Rasslin Podcast.

    “…One day Fam, the podfather was like, ‘Hey Khal, myself and my cousin, you know Matth, the one that used to rap. We love pro wrestling. We want to talk about pro wrestling, but we can’t do it on the Buffy. So we wanted to ask you a question, would you want to bring back Black Rasslin with us, or would you be cool with us doing it on our own,’” said Khal reflecting on how the podcast started.

    Drip BRP
    Drip from The Black Rasslin Podcast

    He continued, “…I was like, you know what, I don’t have anybody in life to have these conversations with, so I said maybe we can figure it out together and see what goes on. So, the first time I had a conversation with the two of them in real life was the first episode of the Black Rasslin Podcast season two.” They would start their newly formed podcast in January 2017.

    As the podcast gained success and an audience, the crew discovered Drip, who listened to the podcast as a fan and would give feedback. Noticing his talent as a podcaster, The Black Rasslin Podcast added Drip to the team. Last year, the successful podcast brought in Mimi, who gives a different perspective to the great group of creators.

    Mimi BRP
    Mimi from the Black Rasslin Podcast

    Why Do They Help Other Content Creators?

    Although The Black Rasslin Podcast has succeeded, they are still unafraid to work with others. Recently, they worked with wrestling commentator and podcaster Stephanie Hardy for a Black History Month collaboration. They believe the wrestling community works best when everyone is unified and people are given opportunities.

    “…It’s like a game of dodgeball, right where they put the ball, and everybody before the game is all sitting there looking at each other, they put the ball down, and you have to get it, and you have to run for the ball, but then you realize that’s not what we are playing, said Fam. He explained, “…There are enough balls for everybody, you know what I’m saying. Some of us got two, and the fact of the matter is the better that you pod, the better you are able to create these relationships. It’s like if everybody has a ball, then the norm is having a ball.”

    Khal added, “…The only way some people are heard is when other people prop up their voices because when you are on my podcast, a link goes with it. People are going to know where to find you.”

    something else podcast
    Something Else Podcast with Mark Henry

    The Black Rasslin Upcoming Projects

    The next couple of months will be a busy time for them. Alongside their podcast, they added two new shows last year, White Noise, hosted by Drip, and Something Else with Fam and Lovely Laveau. As well as those ongoing weekly shows and more content on Patreon, they have their BRP 50 coming in less than four months.

    The BRP 50 on June 19 celebrates what black wrestlers they believe had a great year the previous year. The Black Rasslin team compiles top 50 list of up-and-coming and established black wrestlers like Carmelo Hayes, Bianca Belair, and Jade Cargill in the same way Pro Wrestling Illustrated makes their list yearly. The point is not necessarily where everyone is listed but to celebrate and acknowledge black wrestlers’ work in wrestling. It also helps spotlight up-and-coming wrestlers, that may not be on the general public radar or are just starting out.

    Khal
    Khal from the Black Rasslin Podcast

    When asked about the creation of the BRP 50, Khal said, “…Matth, Fam, and I had a conversation, and the conversation was like, damn, every black pro wrestling outlet is really, as they should, focusing in Feb. and Black History Month and not to say that we don’t want to do that, but at a certain point everybody drawing from the same black history fact. Every fact is new to somebody at some year; it feels like everyone is doing the same thing.”

    He continued, “…We thought about it, and the idea of doing something around Juneteenth came up. Using a variation of PWI 100, they created a system looking at win/loss records, titles held, etc., to create the BRP 50. This year marks six years since its creation, as they individually will start their list to compare and narrow down what this year’s BRP 50 will be.

    BRP group
    The Black Rasslin Podcast

    The Future of The Black Rasslin Podcast

    The podcast continues to grow as it has become its own media network. While they have projects and shows they are working on, it hasn’t stopped them from wanting to create more content. In the interview, Khal shared that he spoke with Mimi and Laveau about working on their projects for the network. However, he added that nothing is confirmed yet.

    Regardless the future of the podcast is looking very bright. As a podcast that shows love to others, maybe their influence of unity spreads to the wrestling podcast community.

  • The Rock’s Family Wants Him Back in WWE, “Including His Mama”

    The Rock’s Family Wants Him Back in WWE, “Including His Mama”

    WWE fans hope that one day The Rock will return to the company. Now we know that his own family would like to see him make his comeback.

    The Rock is one of the busiest celebrities in Hollywood. When he is not acting in a blockbuster film, he works on projects like running the XFL. However, it hasn’t stopped wrestling fans from wishing he’d work in WWE again.

    For several months, people questioned if The Rock would be involved in WrestleMania 39 in April. WWE would’ve liked him to appear at WrestleMania if he could. Triple H has shared that the door is always open for him to return, but he couldn’t commit this year due to his availability. While fans want to see him compete again, his family also hopes to see The Rock back in wrestling.

    In an interview with Insider, Tamina revealed that she and his entire family are looking forward to one day seeing him entertain wrestling again. Insider’s Alan Dawson transcribed the following quote.

    “All of us, including his mama, want him to come back,” Tamina said. “I feel like everybody wants him to return,” said Tamina. She also added that The Rock could make his comeback and still be in his element as a performer.

    Chances of The Rock Making A Return

    The Rock
    (WWE)

    Although The Rock isn’t able to participate in this year’s WrestleMania, Triple H has shared that there are no hard feelings. WWE has a relationship with him that they ask, but they aren’t pressuring the Hollywood star to say yes or no. It also seems WWE feels confident in its plan for WrestleMania 39 and is already looking forward to a successful event.

    The WWE can contact him for next year’s 40th anniversary of WrestleMania, which will take place at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. According to IMDB, The Rock has two films in production, but their progress is unclear. While it’s not a high chance, his schedule could make his decision easier to make his long-awaited return to WWE.

  • WrestleMania 39: Latest on WWE Reshuffling Plans for Remaining Matches

    WrestleMania 39: Latest on WWE Reshuffling Plans for Remaining Matches

    It seems WWE may have a new match in mind for WrestleMania 39 in April.

    As we get closer to WrestleMania, WWE is making clear decisions on what matches will be on the card. The company has confirmed three matches for WrestleMania 39, including the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes.

    They have also started teasing potential matchups like Brock Lesnar vs. Omos and Logan Paul vs. Seth Rollins. However, it also seems like WWE could be changing their minds on one particular match.

    WrestleMania 39 Match Change

    On Feb. 6, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reported that Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler would challenge Damage CTRL (Dakota Kai and IYO Sky) for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship at WrestleMania 39. Since Rousey’s return, WWE has started to have her and Baszler team up more instead of positioning her as a singles competitor.

    Fans may remember that she lost her Smackdown Women’s Championship to Charlotte Flair on the Dec. 31, 2022 episode of Friday Night Smackdown. WWE has moved on to Flair defending her title against Rhea Ripley at WrestleMania, instead of a rematch with Rousey.

    However, a new report from WON claims that Rousey will in fact have a marquee match at WrestleMania 39.

    Ronda Rousey’s WrestleMania Match

    “Shayna Baszler & Ronda Rousey will challenge for the women’s tag titles. It was originally against Iyo Sky & Dakota Kai, the champions, said the report. It continues, “… Lita & Becky Lynch face Sky & Kai, and WrestleMania is about marquee matches, and Lita & Lynch as a team against Baszler & Rousey is a bigger match.”

    Lita and Becky Lynch will face Damage CTRL on the Feb. 27 episode of Monday Night Raw for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship. If the report is accurate, Lita and Lynch may defeat Damage CTRL to win the tag titles, and WWE could start to build toward Lita and Lynch against Rousey and Baszler. It’s also unclear what the entire Damage CTRL (including Bayley) group will do for WrestleMania 39 if the WON report is accurate.

    It’s important to note that WWE has yet to share the entire card, and while it’s reported, it has yet to happen. Fans must see how this upcoming Monday Night Raw episode will play out for the women’s tag titles.

  • Impact Wrestling Results (2/23/23): Monster’s Ball Match, Beat The Clock Challenges

    Impact Wrestling Results (2/23/23): Monster’s Ball Match, Beat The Clock Challenges

    The Feb. 23 episode of Impact Wrestling aired on AXS TV at 8 PM EST/5 PM PT.

    The episode saw X Division Champion Trey Miguel defend his title against Crazzy Steve in a Monster’s Ball match. Impact Wrestling had built the feud up for several weeks when Steve confronted Miguel on the Jan. 26 episode. The episode also had Bully Ray and Tommy Dreamer compete in Beat the Clock Challenges to determine who would speak first at their live Busted Open show at No Surrender on Feb. 24.

    Impact Wrestling also aired on their Youtube channel for Impact Insider subscribers. The company offers a monthly subscription to watch weekly episodes on Youtube for $1.49. Unfortunately, it aired at 8:30 PM ET/5:30 PM PT.

    If you would like more results for this week’s events in wrestling, please check back on our results section.

    Impact Wrestling Results (2/23)

    We started the episode with Miguel and Steve locked in their rooms as they prepared for Monster’s Ball.

    “Speedball” Mike Bailey & Jonathan Gresham vs. Motor City Machine Guns(Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley)

    The match started with Jonathan Gresham and Alex Shelley. They tried to outpace each other until Gresham caught Shelley in a Dragon Leg Whip in the corner. Gresham brought his opponent to his corner and tagged in Mike Bailey to start working on his leg. Bailey Irish Whipped Shelley on his side, which Chris Sabin blind tagged in to land a Chop Block/Clothesline combo with Shelley.

    Sabin worked over Bailey briefly but tagged Shelley back into the match. Shelley beat down Bailey and tagged Sabin back in. They tried to go for a tag team move, but Bailey counterd to tag in Gresham. Sabin and Gresham exchanged forearm strikes in the middle of the ring until Gresham hit Sabin with a kick to the gut. He Irish Whipped Sabin to a corner, and Shelley tried to help his partner by kicking Gresham. However, Gresham caught the kick and swung it to Sabin and hit him with a Enzugiri, which made Sabin land a Dragon Leg Whip on his partner.

    Gresham tried to pin Sabin, but Shelley stopped him. Bailey tried to help but gets thrown out the ring. Sabin picked up Gresham in a Fireman’s Carry, and Shelley did an assisted neckbreaker. They followed it up with the Magic Killer for a two-count. Sabin tried to go for a Suplex, but Gresham countered with his Suplex on his opponent. Gresham and Sabin tagged out to their partners, but Bailey started to take control of Shelley. Sabin tried to help his partner, but Bailey took care of them. Bailey put Shelley in a Leg Lock and Sabin tried to go after him. Still holding on to Shelley, Bailey caught Sabin and did a Spinning Brainbuster and kept his hold on Shelley.

    Shelley can make it to the ropes to break the hold. The action continued as both teams tried to gain the advantage. The match finished when The Motor City Machine Guns landed the Dirt Bomb on Gresham, and Sabin pinned him for the win.

    We get a video package promoting the Impact World Championship match between Rich Swann and champ Josh Alexander at No Surrender.

    We get a backstage promo with Deanna Purrazzo warning Gisele Shaw, who she faces at No Surrender.

    Tommy Dreamer vs. Jason Hotch- Beat the Clock Challenge

    Jason Hotch started the match by taking advantage of his speed against Dreamer. He hit a neckbreaker on Dreamer for a one-count. Hotch tried to go to the top rope but got stopped by Dreamer. Dreamer hit the Death Valley Driver from the top rope to beat Hotch in 1:15.

    Allysin Kay with Marti Belle vs. Taya Valkyrie with Jessicka & Rosemary

    Allysin Kay tried to go after Taya Valkyrie, but Valkyrie sent her to the corner. They exchanged blows in the corner, but Valkyrie landed a big chop on her opponent. Valkyrie Irish Whipped Kay, but Kay countered with a Clothesline. Kay tried to run the ropes but got caught with a Back Elbow. Valkyrie did a Snapmare into a unique Armbar, but Kay put her foot on the rope. Kay tried to gain momentum on her side but got caught with a Spear for a two-count.

    Valkyrie continued to control the match until we went to a commercial break. However, when we returned from break, Kay controlled the match(We don’t see how she turned things around). It doesn’t last long as Valkyrie rallied back into the match. She landed a Blue Thunder Bomb for a near fall. Valkyrie followed up with an STF submission, but Kay got to the ropes. The finish came when Marti Bells distracted Valkyrie, which lead to Kay landing the AK47 for the win.

    We had a contract signing backstage between Swann and Alexander. The champion tried to walk away with the title. However, Swann stopped him to apologize for accidentally kicking him last week. Alexander said it’s not a problem and that Swann doesn’t have it in him to attack Alexander like that. Swann took offense as he feels Alexander doesn’t think Swann can do what he needs to beat him. Steve Maclin interrupted their talk and told them that he will face the winner after he wins the Fatal Four Way number one contender match at No Surrender. Maclin called Swann a choke arrest, which led to Maclin and Swann getting into a brawl until it’s broken up by backstage officials.

    Deaner & Sami Callihan with The Design(Kon & Alan Angels) vs. Frankie Kazarian & Yuya Uemura

    The match started with Frankie Kazarian and Deaner until Deaner tagged in Sami Callihan. Deaner yelled at Callihan to take him out, which led to Kazarian telling him to shut up. Callihan took the opportunity to hit Kazarian and beat him down briefly. However, Deaner yelled at his partner to tag him back in.

    Deaner started to work over Kazarian until he got caught with three Arm Drags and a big Clothesline from Kazarian. Kazarian tagged Yuya Uemura, and they landed a tag team move on Deaner for a two-count. Uemura started to work on Deaner’s arm, but Deaner grabbed his hair and sent him to the corner to Callihan. After Deaner tagged out, Callihan gouged the eyes of Uemura. Callihan and Deaner tagged in and out to control their opponent. Uemura and Callihan are the legal men in the ring and Uemura caught his opponent with a Pele Kick. Uemura tried to tag out, but Kon hit Kazarian with a Clothesline outside of the ring, while the referee is distracted.

    Callihan tagged Deaner to go to the top rope for a Diving Headbutt. However, Deaner missed, and Uemura tagged in Kazarian. Deaner tagged in Callihan, but Kazarian started to get the better of him. Alan Angels distract Kazarian for Callihan to land an Exploder Suplex. Callihan tagged in Deaner, and they tried to go for a tag team move, but Kazarian countered to tag in his partner.

    Uemura took offense to both of his opponents. He went to the top rope and landed a Crossbody on Deaner for a pin, but Callihan stopped the count. Callihan and Kazarian tagged in the match as both teams struggled to take control of the match. Callihan prepared to go for the Cactus Driver on Kazarian, but Deaner yelled at his partner to tag him in. He went to tag Deaner, but his partner left the ring apron. Kazarian took advantage and put Callihan in the Crossface Chicken Wing for the submission win.

    We get a video package hyping up Impact Knockout Champion Mickie James defending her title against Masha Slamovich at No Surrender.

    We got a backstage segment with Callihan confronting Deaner for leaving him. Deaner told him it’s part of his steps to join The Design. Callihan expressed his loyalty to The Design. Deaner said that Callihan has two more steps left before being a member.

    Bully Ray vs. Bhupinder Gujjar- Beat The Clock Challenge

    The match ended quickly as Hotch and John Skyler distracted the referee and Gujjar. As the referee is distracted, Ray hit his opponent with a steel chain to win in 0:45 to win the Beat the Clock Challenge.

    We get a backstage segment with Gujjar and Dreamer. Dreamer motivated Gujjar and says he won because Ray had to cheat.

    (C) Trey Miguel vs. Crazzy Steve- Monster’s Ball match for the X-Division Championship

    The match started with Steve taking Miguel down with an STO. The challenger fought Miguel outside the ring as we cut to a commercial break. We come back from back to see four chairs set up. Steve lands a Suplex on Miguel through the chairs, but the champion counters, and Steve gets caught with a Drop Toe Hold into the chairs.

    Miguel picked up Steve, who is also busted open. The champion tried to hit Steve with a chair to the face against the ring post, but Steve moved. Miguel tried to run at his opponent but got caught with a Back Body Drop through the chairs. They rolled back into the ring, and before Steve can capitalize, he got caught with a Dropkick by Miguel. The X-Division Champion went outside to get more weapons. He tried to hit his opponent with a trash can, but Steve used a Staple Gun to the groin of Miguel. He followed up his attack by put the trash can over the head of the champion, put him in the corner and landed the cannonball on Miguel. We go to another commercial break.

    We returned from a commercial break with Steve trying to attack Miguel with a fork. The champion stopped him and landed a Neckbreaker. Miguel took the Fork and tried to stab his opponent’s eye unsuccessfully. He settled with landing a Double Foot Stomp. The X-Division Champion went to get thumbtacks and spread them in the center of the ring. He tried to run at Steve in the corner, but his opponent caught him with a strike. Steve landed the Black Hole Slam on Miguel into the thumbtacks and goes for the pin. Before the referee can count three, Steve stopped the pin to punish Miguel more.

    However, Miguel kicked Steve to the point where he was on his knee near the Thumbtacks and landed a double foot stomp to have his opponent land chest first into it. The champion went for the cover but got a two-count. Miguel went to the floor for a table to place the weapon in the corner. They both tried to avoid crashing into the table until they simultaneously landed a Clothesline falling into the thumbtacks.

    They both went outside for a weapon. Miguel got a spike, and Steve got Janice(a spiked wooden object). Steve missed Miguel with Janice but caught him in a Death Valley Driver through the table in the corner for the near fall. Steve went to bring chairs into the ring and positions it near the center of the ring. The champion recovered to hit Steve in the gut with a chair, but Steve fought back. Steve put Miguel on the top rope, but Miguel slid underneath him to hit his opponent with a Superkick and a Tiger Feint Kick. While Steve is down, the champion went to the top rope. However, the challenger recovered and tried to go after Miguel, but the champion jumped and rolled from the top rope into the thumbtacks.

    Steve followed up with a Canadian Destroyer on Miguel into a chair and thumbtacks. While laying in the thumbtacks, Steve briefly did a snow angel and pinned Miguel for a two count. The challenger used Janice to scrape Miguel’s forehead. Steve took the champion to the ring apron as a wooden board with barbed wire is laid on top of chairs. Before Steve could slam Miguel through it, the champion hit Steve in the groin and landed the Roll of the Dice through the wooden board with barbed wire. Miguel put Steve back in the ring to pin for the win.

  • Mustafa Ali Responds to Fan Calling Him Worthless

    Mustafa Ali Responds to Fan Calling Him Worthless

    WWE superstar Mustafa Ali has a nice response to a critical fan who called him worthless.

    Ali has had an interesting career in WWE. He’s worked for the company for almost six years after making his debut participating in the Cruiserweight Classic. In his time with WWE, he has yet to win a championship, despite competing for the Cruiserweight, United States, and Intercontinental Championships.

    Wrestling fans have called out WWE’s issues with finding decent storylines or opportunities for Ali in the past. He also requested his release from the company on Jan. 16, 2022, but it wasn’t granted. Since Triple H took over WWE as Head of Creative, Ali has seen more TV opportunities, and on the Feb. 20 episode of Monday Night Raw, he earned a win against Dolph Ziggler.

    However, it hasn’t stopped some wrestling fans from criticizing his WWE career. After his win over Ziggler, a fan tweeted, “Like a bad penny. Just can’t get rid of this fucking guy. Only a penny has a small amount of value. Ali is still worthless.”

    Ali responded to the tweet with positivity.

    What’s Next for Mustafa Ali?

    It’s unclear if WWE is allowing for Ali to have more opportunities to shine on the main roster. The win against Ziggler was his first on TV since he defeated The Miz on a Monday Night Raw episode on Oct. 31, 2022. During that time, he was working his way to challenging for the United States Championship.

    It doesn’t seem like Ali will be chasing a WWE title anytime soon. The company is preparing for WrestleMania 39, with some men’s title matches, like the United States Championship, already reportedly decided on. Ali may miss out on WrestleMania this year, but WWE could still give him opportunities to build to be a contender for a title after the event.

  • MLW Underground Results (2/21/23): Alex Hammerstone vs. YAMATO, and Much More

    MLW Underground Results (2/21/23): Alex Hammerstone vs. YAMATO, and Much More

    Major League Wrestling held their weekly episode Underground on Feb. 21 at 10 PM ET/ 7 PM PT on Reelz TV.

    The episode saw Yamato challenge MLW Heavyweight Champion Alex Hammerstone in the main event. Another match on the card had Calvin Tankman take on Sam Adonis.

    MLW fans can watch Underground if they have select cable providers like Direct TV, Verizon Fios, or Spectrum. For people without cable, you can only watch it on Sling TV or Philo. Reelz TV has a page on its website for where to find the channel, depending on your zip code.

    If you would like more results for this week’s events in wrestling, please check back on our results section.

    MLW Underground Quick Results (2/21)

    1. The episode starts with Mance Warner hitting Real1 with a car. Warner comes out of the car and tells Real1 that their rivalry isn’t over.
    2. We start with Cesar Duran and Sam Adonis, who cut a promo before Adonis’s match with Calvin Tankman. They talk down to the crowd until Tankman interrupts them to start the match.
    3. Sam Adonis with Cesar Duran def. Calvin Tankman with a low blow followed by a 450 Splash.
    4. After the match, Adonis cuts another promo, talking down to the crowd, and calls out Davey Richards. Richards comes out to confront Adonis but gets beaten down by Adonis and the Azteca Henchman. John Hennigan comes out with a steel chair to act like he’s going save Richards but attacks him with the weapon. Adonis and Hennigan continue to assault Richards while Duran berates the crowd until they decide to leave.
    5. The Billington Bulldogs (Thomas & Mark Billington) def. FBI (Little Guido & Ray Jaz) with a Heart Attack/Dropkick combo.
    6. We get a backstage interview with Alex Hammerstone. He shares that he is ready for Yamato, but also says that he is willing to take on Jacob Fatu, if Fatu tries to go after Hammerstone after the match.
    7. We get an interview on the stage ramp with Richards. He calls out Hennigan to a future match. Duran responds backstage and says that he thinks Richards is scared. Hennigan agrees to face Richards next week on MLW Underground.
    8. MLW airs a video package with Fatu showing how he lost the MLW world title to Hammerstone and his rise back to contention. After the video package, Jacob has a off-site promo segment and challenges Hammerstone to a title match at Superfight.
    9. (C) Alex Hammerstone def. Yamato to retain MLW World Heavyweight Championship match with the Nightmare Pendulum.
    10. After the match, a person in a gas mask confronts Hammerstone and gives him a box. The person walks away, and Hammerstone opens it to find an octopus inside. Disgusted, Hammerstone puts the octopus on the ground and walks up the ramp. However, Fatu comes out to address the crowd and the champion. He says that he is coming for the MLW World Heavyweight Championship and adds that if Hammer wants to fight, they could do it tonight. Fatu and Hammerstone get into a brawl before getting seperated by MLW staff to end the show.

    MLW Underground Match Highlights

    Sam Adonis with Cesar Duran def. Calvin Tankman

    The Billington Bulldogs(Thomas & Mark Billington) def. FBI (Little Guido & Ray Jaz)

    (C) Alex Hammerstone def. YAMATO to Retain the MLW World Heavyweight Championship

  • Mercedes Moné and Naomi Announced For Bar Rescue Premiere

    Mercedes Moné and Naomi Announced For Bar Rescue Premiere

    Free agent Mercedes Moné and WWE talent Naomi will appear on the Bar season premiere of Bar Rescue this weekend.

    Both Moné and Naomi are keeping themselves busy outside of professional wrestling. They stepped away from WWE on May 16 due to reportedly creative differences. Wrestling fans saw both participate in Fashion Week in New York last year in September. They’ve also been seen together for movie premieres and other events. However, they will soon be making their reality TV debut.

    Bar Rescue will have its season 9 premiere on Feb. 26. In a clip to promote their upcoming premiere; the show put out a teaser. Wrestling fans have spotted Moné and Naomi in the episode, watching the host, Jon Taffer, berate a bar owner.

    Why Were Mercedes Moné and Naomi There?

    Since the teaser came out, fans have wondered why Moné and Naomi were in that bar. In response to the Public Enemies Podcast, both superstars shared what led them there. It may be a joke, but they seemingly were there to get some drinks and food. It’s unclear if they will be featured more than what was shown in the teaser.

    Sasha Banks and Naomi
    (via WWE)

    What’s Next for Moné and Naomi?

    Since they departed from WWE, they both have found success. Moné is working as a free agent and looking to compete worldwide. She recently defeated Kairi at NJPW: Battle in the Valley on Feb. 18 to win the IWGP Women’s Championship. Moné has also teased going against Impact Knockout’s Champion Mickie James in the future. She also has Stardom talent AZM is looking to take her title away.

    Naomi’s status is unclear. She is still doing work outside of WWE but is still listed on their website as a Friday Night Smackdown roster member. On Jan. 19, Fightful Select reported that a source within WWE has shared they are confident she will return to the company. However, the report didn’t share when she could return to WWE.

    Both Moné and Naomi seem to be enjoying their time together and pursuing other opportunities. They will appear at the Emerald City Comic Con on March 4 and 5. Wrestling fans can look forward to seeing the two on TV again on Feb. 26 on the Paramount Network channel at 10 PM ET/ 7 PM PT.

  • Matt Riddle’s Girlfriend Addresses Online Harassment

    Matt Riddle’s Girlfriend Addresses Online Harassment

    Adult film actress and girlfriend of WWE superstar Matt Riddle, Misha Montana, has shared her perspective on fans’ online harassment.

    Riddle is currently on hiatus from pro wrestling. He’s been focusing on healthy living and seemingly is doing well with that effort. He recently earned his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has been with his girlfriend, Montana, who Riddle shared has helped him during his time in rehab.

    While Riddle is on the road to recovery and possibly redemption, it hasn’t stopped fans from harassing himself and Montana. He posted a selfie of them both on Twitter, with grills in his mouth, on Feb. 4. The fan’s reception of them together was both met with well wishes and criticism. The criticism and online harassment of Riddle and Montana being together had negatively affected her.

    Montana spoke with the Cheap Heat Production Podcast’s Maurice Shortall about dealing with harassment from wrestling fans from being in a relationship with Riddle.

    “…I never anticipated that it would be what it was, and it’s just like how huge the stories were, and it wasn’t even how big the stories, were they were big, but how consuming it was like in our lives and speaking strictly for myself too that it just consumed my life for months and it was nothing but toxic and negative and just lies and slander and you know, threats and harassment, and it’s just like relentless, and it would escalate, said Montana.

    She also shared, “…It impacted my career. People or an adult had opinions about it, therefore, had opinions about me. Part of the reason why I’m not with XPW is because of this situation. She added that her life has “drastically changed.”

    Matt Riddle
    Matt Riddle

    When Will Riddle Return to WWE?

    Riddle has been taken off WWE TV since Dec. 5, 2022. He got attacked by Solo Sikoa in the storyline so that he could serve his suspension. Since his departure, WWE has yet to mention Riddle very much.

    WWE could try to have Riddle return after WrestleMania 39 in April. The company seems to have a plan for the upcoming event, but it doesn’t look like Riddle is a part of it. However, Riddle is seemingly in a healthy space with his girlfriend, despite the hate from fans.

  • NJPW Battle In The Valley Results: Kairi vs. Mercedes Monè, Loser Leaves NJPW Match

    NJPW Battle In The Valley Results: Kairi vs. Mercedes Monè, Loser Leaves NJPW Match

    New Japan Pro Wrestling held its event, Battle in the Valley, on Feb. 18 at the San Jose Civic in San Jose, California.

    One of the featured matches was IWGP Women’s Champion Kairi defending her title against Mercedes Monè. The event marked Monè’s first wrestling match since leaving the WWE. Another match on the card was Jay White vs. Eddie Kingston in a Loser Leaves NJPW match. It’s rumored that White could leave the company when his contract expires.

    NJPW: Battle in the Valley aired live on FITE TV for $19.99 at 10 PM ET/ 7 PM PT. Fans who missed the event can watch it on replay with an NJPW World subscription.

    NJPW Battle In The Valley Results

    1. Alex Coughlin def. JR Kratos
    2. David Finlay def. Bobby Fish
    3. Kushida, Volador Jr., Kevin Knight & The DKC def. Máscara Dorada, Josh Alexander, Adrian Quest & Rocky Romero
    4. KENTA def. (C) Fred Rosser- Strong Openweight Championship match
    5. (C) The Motor City Machine Guns(Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley) def. West Coast Wrecking Crew (Jorel Nelson and Royce Issacs)- Strong Openweight Tag Team Championship match
    6. Eddie Kingston def. Jay White- Loser Leaves NJPW match
    7. Tom Lawler def. Homicide- Filthy Rules Fight match
    8. (C) Zack Sabre Jr def. Clark Connors- NJPW World TV Championship match
    9. Mercedes Monè def. (C) Kairi- IWGP Women’s Championship match
    10. C) Kazuchika Okada def. Hiroshi Tanahashi- IWGP World Heavyweight Championship match

    NJPW Battle in The Valley Highlights

    Eddie Kingston def. Jay White- Loser Leaves NJPW match

    Mercedes Monè def. (C) Kairi- IWGP Women’s Championship match

  • WWE Sale Update: Vince’s Magic Number, Latest on Potential Buyers

    WWE Sale Update: Vince’s Magic Number, Latest on Potential Buyers

    WWE Chairman Vince McMahon is asking for a steep price for the WWE, according to a new report.

    The company is heading into an interesting situation as they look for a potential buyer. McMahon returned to power last month following his short retirement on July 22, 2022, following allegations of misconduct with female employees. His reason for his comeback to the WWE Board of Directors and Chairman position was to help the company sell or secure a TV deal.

    While the company has yet to be sold, WWE CEO Nick Khan shared on Feb. 3 that fans may expect a sale in possibly three months. In a new update from Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw, McMahon is looking for $9 billion for the WWE.

    “Vince McMahon is looking to get as much as $9 billion in a potential sale of World Wrestling Entertainment Inc., the company he returned to run this year, according to people familiar with his thinking, said the report. It continues, “The company has already received offers, said the people, who requested that they not be identified because the discussions are private. WWE declined to comment. Shares of WWE rose as much as 4.9% to $91.48 Friday in New York. As of the close Thursday, the asking price was 37% greater than the company’s $6.5 billion market value.”

    Potential Buyers For WWE

    The report shares that Endeavor Group Holding Inc. is among the potential buyers looking to acquire WWE. Combat sports fans may recognize Endeavor as the current owner of the UFC. However, it is worth pointing out that the group bought the UFC for close to $6 billion in order to have full control of the company, which they needed numerous private equity firms, according to MMA Fighting’s Damon Martin. The Bloomberg article notes that Endeavor would need financial help in order to make the sell as their market cap value is $10.4 billion.

    Other potential buyers could be the likes of Comcast, Fox, Netflix, Disney, and Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund. The article notes that McMahon “…Built the WWE into an international entertainment powerhouse that packs arenas and airs programs regularly on Fox Corp. and Comcast Corp.’s USA network.” To lose the potential TV rights to the WWE may not be in the best interest of Comcast or Fox. Comcast in particular has WWE’s library on their streaming service Peacock, which has helped them gain subscribers.

    It’s unclear who will buy WWE. However, we know how much McMahon values his company.

  • Impact Wrestling Results (2/16/23): Rich Swann vs. Kenny King, Chris Bey vs. Kushida

    Impact Wrestling Results (2/16/23): Rich Swann vs. Kenny King, Chris Bey vs. Kushida

    The Feb. 16 episode of Impact Wrestling aired on AXS TV at 8 PM EST/5 PM PT.

    This episode of Impact Wrestling saw Rich Swann take on Kenny King. The match was teased on Feb. 9 when Swann confronted King in a backstage segment. Tonight’s show also had Chris Bey vs. Kushida and more qualifying matches to determine who will be in a Fatal-Four-Way match at No Surrender. One of the matches tonight is Steve Maclin vs. Rhino. The winner of the Fatal-Four-Way match will be the number one contender for the Impact World Championship.

    Impact Wrestling also aired on their Youtube channel for Impact Insider subscribers. The company offers a monthly subscription to watch weekly episodes on Youtube for $1.49. However, it aired at 8:30 PM ET/5:30 PM PT.

    If you would like more results for this week’s events in wrestling, please check back on our results section.

    Impact Wrestling Results (2/16)

    The show starts with a tribute to Jerry Jarrett, followed by a video package of last week’s episode.

    Chris Bey vs. Kushida

    The match starts with Kushida and Chris Bey exchanging holds, with Kushida getting the best of his opponent. Bey tricks Kushida in a test of strength and starts to gain offense. However, Bey tried to Irish Whip Kushida into the ropes and got caught with a Springboard Back Elbow, which takes him out of the ring. Kushida follows him outside and jumps from the ring apron with a knee strike onto Bey’s left arm.

    He rolls Bey back into the ring and starts working on Bey’s arm. Kushida starts to dominate the match by focusing on Bey’s arm. Bey rolls to the outside, and Kushida tries to land another knee strike from the ring apron but gets caught with a kick to the gut. Bey tries to capitalize, but they both land a Clothesline simultaneously. They lay on the floor outside the ring and both get into the ring at the count of nine to beat the countout. Back in the ring, they both exchange forearm strikes, until Bey gets the better of Kushida.

    Bey starts to take control of the match and lands a Torture Rack Neck Breaker for a two-count. He tries to go for a Brainbuster on Kushida, but his opponent blocks it. Kushida starts to rally back after he catches Bey with a Rolling Thunder Kick to the face. Bey rolls out of the ring, but Kushida does a Senton dive from the top rope to the floor on Bey.

    Kushida rolls Bey back into the ring and tries to lock in a Guillotine, but his opponent fights out of it. However, Bey got caught with a Dropkick to the left arm. Kushida tries to lock in a Kimura, but Bey gets out of the hold and lands a Springboard Leg Drop to the back of Kushida’s head for a two-count. The finish comes when Kushida puts Bey in the Kimura lock but transitions to a Small Package for the win.

    Tommy Dreamer and Bully Ray to Have Live Busted Open Show at No Surrender

    We get a backstage segment with Bully Ray and Tommy Dreamer, with Santino Marella as the mediator. Marella proposes that Dreamer and Ray have a live episode of Busted Open live at No Surrender. Dreamer says he will let bygones be bygones, but Ray agrees as long as Dreamer leaves Impact Wrestling. They both get into an argument until Marella says they can talk it out at No Surrender. They argue again about who gets to talk first at No Surrender, but Marella says that they will have a beat the clock challenge match next week to determine who will speak first.

    Steve Maclin vs. Rhino No Surrender Qualifying Match

    The match starts with Rhino and Maclin locking up, with Rhino getting the advantage. Rhino holds on to Maclin’s wrist until he gets caught with a back elbow. Maclin lands a Knife Edge Chop to Rhino in the corner, but it makes Rhino mad, and he hits a Shoulder Block on Maclin. Maclin tries to land a Suplex, but Rhino reverses and lands his Suplex, followed by an Arm Drag. Rhino tries to go for the Gore, but Maclin rolls to the outside.

    Rhino tries to follow Maclin outside the ring but gets outsmarted by his opponent. Maclin slams Rhino’s arm into the ring post as we cut to a commercial break. When we return from the commercial break, Maclin completely controls the match in the ring.

    Maclin tries to go for a Top Rope Headbutt on his opponent but misses it. After the mistake, Rhino starts to rally back in the match. He hits Maclin in the gut in the corner, followed by a Belly to Belly Slam for a two-count. Maclin responds by hitting Rhino with several forearm strikes, but Rhino catches him with a Spinebuster. Rhino tries to hit Maclin with a Gore, but misses it. Maclin responds by hitting the Gore on Rhino for a two count. The finish comes when Maclin lands the Wake Up Call(Rhino’s tag team partner Heath Slater finisher) for the win.

    Johnny Swinger With Zicky Dice vs. Barry Horowitz

    The match starts with Zicky Dice distracting Barry Horowitz, so Johnny Swinger attacks his opponent’s left knee. Swinger starts to work beat down Horowitz in the corner until he misses a shoulder strike. Horowitz starts taking offense to Swinger, hitting him with several European Uppercuts in the corner. He lands a Headbutt on Swinger and starts to taunt to the crowd. Swinger rakes his opponents eyes and starts to go for a Neckbreaker, until former WCW talent The Demon comes out to distract Swinger. Horowitz takes advantage and gets the Schoolboy pin for the win.

    We get a backstage interview with Moose. He talks about what happened last week with Joe Hendry and says, “He doesn’t get humiliated; he gets even.” We cut to a commercial break.

    After the commercial break, Moose starts busting a car in the parking lot that he believes is Hendry’s. However, it turns out to be Marella’s car. Marella announces that it will be Moose vs. Hendry for the Digital Media Championship at No Surrender.

    Heath Slater vs. Eddie Edwards No Surrender Qualifying Match

    The match starts with Eddie Edwards putting Heath Slater in a Head Lock until he gets thrown to the ropes and taken down with a Shoulder Block. Slater hits a Clothesline on Edwards to take him outside of the ring. He followed the move by diving on Edwards from the ring apron with a Senton.

    Slater rolls Edwards back into the ring. As he tries to enter the ring, Edwards hits Slater to keep him out of the ring and does Suicide Dive onto Slater. Edwards rolls Slater back into the ring and starts to take control of the match. He beats down Slater for a few minutes until he gets caught with a Leg Lariat. Slater starts rallying back into the match and lands a Powerslam on Edwards for a two-count. He goes for The Wake Up Call, but Edwards blocks it. However, Slater lands a Spinebuster on Edwards for a two-count.

    Slater goes to the top rope but gets stopped by Edwards. Edwards lands a Superplex on Slater, followed by a Tiger Driver for a two-count. The finish comes when Edwards goes for the Die Hard Driver but gets distracted by PCO music. Slater hits his finisher to get the win.

    After the match, PCO comes from behind Edwards in the ring and starts attacking him. PCO lands a Reverse DDT and goes to the top rope, but Edwards rolls out of the ring to escape.

    We get a backstage segment with The Design and Sami Callihan. Deaner says that Yuya Uemura and Frankie Kazarian challenged two members of The Design to match next week. Deaner tells Callihan that they both will go against Uemura and Kazarian on the next episode of Impact Wrestling.

    We get another backstage segment with Father James Mitchell and The Hex. The Hex challenged The Death Dollz to a title match at No Surrender.

    Masha Slamovich vs. Alisha

    Masha Slamovich dominates the match from the start. Alisha would try to get her offense in but would get shut down. The finish comes when Slamovich lands the Snowplow for a quick win.

    After the match, Slamovich puts Alisha in a Rear Naked Choke, but James enters the ring to stop her. James tries to go after Slamovich but gets caught in a Rear Naked Choke. Three Referees enter the ring to get her off of James. Slamovich leaves the ring and watches James as she tries to recover from the attack.

    We get a backstage segment with Crazzy Steve challenging X Division Champion Trey Miguel to a Monster’s Ball match.

    We get another backstage segment with Marella, Jonathan Gresham, Speedball Mike Bailey, and Dirty Dango. Marella announces that Bailey and Gresham will have a match at No Surrender. Dango suggests to Marella that Gresham and Bailey take on the Motor City Machine Guns on next week’s episode of Impact Wrestling. Marella agrees to have the tag match next week.

    Kenny King vs. Rich Swann

    The match starts with both wrestlers trying to get the better of each other with strikes. However, King caught Swann with a back elbow. He tries to run after Swann but misses and goes to the ring apron. King tries to throw a punch and misses, which lead to Swann kicking him in the face. While King is outside the ring, Swann dives from the ring apron onto King.

    Swann rolls King back into the ring and starts to control the match. He Irish Whips King to the corner and does a running elbow strike on him. Swann maintains dominance over the King until he gets caught with Snake Eyes as Swann runs toward King in the corner. King follows up the move with a big Clothesline for a two count. Swann tries to regain momentum, but his opponent catches him in a Spinning Back Breaker. King tries to continue his offense. However, Swann lands a DDT on King as we go to commercial break.

    We return from a commercial break with Swann in control until King lands a Spinebuster for a two-count. They exchange moves as both try to get the upper hand. However, Swann lands a Poison Rana on King for a two count. He follows up the action with three hard Spinning Side Kicks to the stomach of King.

    He goes for a fourth kick, but King catches his opponent in a Single Boston Crab. However, Swann can get to the ropes to break the hold. They both get to their feet and exchange strikes until they simultaneously catch each other with a kick. The match’s finish comes when Swann catches King in a Small Package for the win.

    After the match, King attacks Swann from behind. He goes outside the ring for a steel chair, but Josh Alexander makes the save. The Impact World Champion takes the chair from King. Swann goes for the Superkick to King but accidentally hits Alexander. The show ends with King escaping with Swann looking at Alexander as he is in the corner.

  • Details on ROH’s First TV Tapings & How to Watch

    Details on ROH’s First TV Tapings & How to Watch

    Ring of Honor will make its long-awaited episodic return in March.

    All Elite Wrestling President Tony Khan has teased that ROH will return to TV for a while. Khan bought the company in March. 2, 2022, which he announced on an episode of AEW Dynamite. Since he bought the company, ROH has had two pay-per-view events on Bleacher Report.

    The last ROH event was ROH: Final Battle on Dec. 11, 2022. After the event, Khan shared that ROH will continue to put their pay-per-views on Bleacher Report. However, ROH will air its TV episodes for fans on its revamped subscription service Honor Club for $9.99. Khan didn’t have an exact date for its episodic return until today.

    Tony Khan ROH
    (JJ Williams)

    In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Khan revealed that ROH would start airing new episodes on Honor Club on March. 2. Sports Illustrated’s Justin Barrasso transcribed the following quotes.

    “Ring of Honor TV is coming Thursday, March 2, on HonorClub,” says Khan. “We’ll have our first tapings on Feb. 25 and 26 at Universal Studios in Orlando, and we’re going to put tickets on sale for the inaugural taping on Thursday. Those will be the first-ever tapings of the new Ring of Honor.”

    He added, “We also have the library on the HonorClub with 20 years of matches. All the Briscoes-FTR matches are available, including Final Battle from December, and those matches are going to stand the test of time in wrestling. Ring of Honor has a tremendous history. We have been able to introduce it with a further reach across the world this past year, and I’m excited to finally introduce weekly Ring of Honor shows.”

    Tickets for the first taping are available on AEWTix.com. They are advertising that tickets will be as low as $20, and fans could also attend a taping for AEW Dark and the second taping of ROH on Feb. 26 as a bundle for $45.

    What to Expect for ROH?

    The timing of ROH’s return to airing episodes is interesting, as they have a PPV coming next month. ROH’s Supercard of Honor will take place at the Galen Center in Los Angeles, California, on March 31. Khan’s choice to have the event on that date is intriguing because it’s the day before WrestleMania 39, which will be less than 10 miles away from each.

    The episodes taped starting on Feb. 25 should build matches for Supercard of Honor. The company has yet to announce a match that will take place at the event. Tickets for the event have also yet to be shared with the public.

    Khan may start building anticipation for ROH TV’s return and its next PPV on upcoming AEW Dynamite and Rampage episodes. However, he will have also to convince fans to subscribe to Honor Club for 9.99 and also pay for the PPV on Bleacher Report.

  • Get to Know: “Docta D” Daryl Johnson

    Get to Know: “Docta D” Daryl Johnson

    In the latest installment of the Get to Know series, we bring you an interview with “Docta D” Daryl Johnson,

    The independent wrestling content creator business has grown over the years, with many creators able to prosper financially covering wrestling. However, some creators worked in wrestling media before it became profitable and are instrumental in helping its growth. Among those early wrestling influencers, Johnson has helped inspire current successful independent wrestling creators with his work.

    In celebration of Black History Month, we wanted to spotlight “Docta D.” I recently spoke with him to discuss his career and influence in wrestling media.

    Here’s the video of our discussion, followed by written highlights.

    How Did “Docta D” Daryl Johnson Get Started in Wrestling Media?

    Johnson became a content creator in wrestling because he was a fan. He’s followed wrestling for most of his life, starting in the late 70s. He fell in love with wrestling, admiring guys like Dusty Rhodes, and like any fan, would also pretend to have matches with his friends.

    However, as Johnson got older, he became interested in covering wrestling as a content creator in the early 2000s by publishing on Myspace. In 2007, he started attending events as a fan and as someone covering the wrestling business.

    Dusty Rhodes and Docta D
    Via “Docta D” Daryl Johnson’s Twitter(“Docta D” Daryl Johnson with Dusty Rhodes

    “…Fast Forward, let’s say, the early 2000s when I basically kinda put up a Myspace page and started doing my own thing with creating videos and content creating, as people call it today, going to place to place really starting with 2007 with Cyber Sunday weekend,” said Johnson. He shared that he lived in Prince George’s County, Maryland, where it made it easy to attend Cyber Sunday, which took place at the Verizon Center in Washington, D.C.

    Johnson would attend autograph signing events in the area with Batista and Rey Mysterio, working as an independent beat reporter. His work at Cyber Sunday led to what he does today: going to independent wrestling promotions or conventions to spotlight legends and up-and-coming wrestlers.

    Docta D and Lanny Poffo
    Via “Docta D” Daryl Johnson’s Twitter(“Docta D” Daryl Johnson with “The Genius” Lanny Poffo)

    Johnson’s Work in Spotlighting Up and Coming Wrestlers and Legends

    Johnson’s decision to travel the country to spotlight wrestling legends and up-and-coming kickstarted his ongoing career. He would go to an autograph signing with legends that weren’t in the spotlight like they were in the past and give them a platform on his Youtube channel. He’s interviewed people like Bobby “The Brain” Heenan, “The Genius” Lanny Poffo, Lex Luger, and many more.

    He’s also created the Docta D Wrestling Showcase, a series he created to help spotlight up-and-coming wrestlers he would meet at independent wrestling promotions. Johnson had interviewed today’s stars like Cedric Alexander and The Briscoes before they became famous.

    When speaking on why he traveled to spotlight talent, Johnson said, “…As I looked at how wrestling was being portrayed when social media was just in its infancy, I didn’t do what everyone else was trying to do. That’s where I made it my business to not just sit behind a camera and talk wrestling different than how it is now, I went to the locations. I wanted to get to know the people. I wanted to get to know the talent. I wanted to get to know the fans and that’s pretty much still my formula.”

    Docta D & Wrestling Wrealm
    Via “Docta D” Daryl Johnson’s Twitter(Docta D” Daryl Johnson’s with Wrestling Wrealm Podcast & Corey Saunders)

    How He Has Helped The Wrestling Content Community

    Although Johnson has made a career as a wrestling content creator, he still passes on his knowledge to others. Some of the people Johnson has helped have achieved tremendous success. However, he doesn’t feel bitter or jealous but rather proud that he can help make a difference in other independent wrestling content creators’ lives.

    “…It’s only right because you know that they can take it further. There are so many things that I’m kinda limited to, but I don’t mention that as much. I continue to do what I know and learn to build from there. There is so many that have the presentation, the fanbase, the numbers, and I’m not jealous of that at all. I definitely envy all of them in a good way because they are so doing what they need to do to get to the next level and really be out there in the public and so many have celebrated milestones and anniversaries, hats off to them all,” said Johnson.

    I contacted the co-host of Complex Unsanctioned and Jobber Tears Podcast, Sir Wilkins, for comment about Johnson’s influence. He called Johnson “The godfather of the wrestling community. A hero and inspiration.”

    I also reached out to the Producer of The Ringer Wrestling Show and co-host of Wrestling Wrealm Brian H. Waters, for comment about how Johnson impacted his career. He said, “Docta D has always been someone who has been unapologetic about his love for wrestling. We met in the Spring of 2011 and instantly a friendship was born. He has always supported me and reminded me that it is ok to love being a wrestling fan. Docta D has allowed me to accomplish many goals and live out my wildest dreams which includes being on wrestling panels and meeting Vince McMahon.”

    Docta D & Renegade Twins
    Via “Docta D” Daryl Johnson’s Twitter(“Docta D” Daryl Johnson with The Renegade Twins)

    What is “Docta D” Doing Currently in Wrestling?

    After all these years of traveling the country, Johnson is still active in the independent wrestling scene. In the interview, he shared that he went to four wrestling events this past weekend. Johnson is also helping spotlight talent that wrestling fans may not be familiar with on social media, like the NWA Women Tag Team Champions, The Renegade Twins.

    “Docta D” is well respected in the wrestling community. However, it’s not solely for his career achievements but because he has used to platform and knowledge to help others.

    Docta D and Mick Foley
    Via “Docta D” Daryl Johnson’s Twitter(“Docta D” Daryl Johnson with Mick Foley)

    When asked what he thinks his legacy in wrestling would be, Johnson said, “Someone that just loved showing how much of a fan he is or was, and I always looked to people like, who you have asked about like Brian and Wilkins and so many others that may have given me my flowers per se, and they may have been able to say something that was motivating to me.”

    He continued, “Sometimes I have my moments about things like, when it comes to losing family, losing friends at such early age, it’s like dang it do I need to start my own eulogy of how I want people to really remember me and so forth like that if it makes sense. It’s like in terms of who Docta D was, Docta D was a fan of the fan. Not just a fan of wrestling. Not just a fan of the talent. Not just a fan of the business, but if anything they were the fan of the fan, because it starts there, end of story.”

  • The New Beginning in Osaka Results: Kazuchika Okada vs. Shingo Takagi, Loser Leaves Japan Match

    The New Beginning in Osaka Results: Kazuchika Okada vs. Shingo Takagi, Loser Leaves Japan Match

    New Japan Pro Wrestling held its event The New Beginning in Osaka, on Feb. 11 at the Edion Arena Osaka in Osaka, Japan.

    The event had the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Kazuchika Okada defend his title against Shingo Takagi. Okada’s match also marks the first title defense of his current reign. Another match on the card will have Jay White against Hikuleo in a Loser Leaves Japan match. Both wrestlers are rumored to be leaving NJPW, with the possibility of entering free agency.

    The New Beginning in Osaka aired live on NJPW World. Fans can watch the event on video on demand by subscribing to NJPW World for $9.99.

    If you would like more results for this week’s events in wrestling, please check back on our results section.

    Highlights from The New Beginning In Osaka

    Lio Rush Challenges Hiromu Takahashi for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship

    Hikuleo def. Jay White in Loser Leaves Japan Match

    (C) Tama Tonga def. El Phantasmo- Never Openweight Championship match

    (C) Kazuchika Okada def. Shingo Takagi- IWGP World Heavyweight Championship match

    The New Beginning In Osaka Results

    1. Aaron Henare & Great O Khan def. Oscar Loiwe & Toru Yano
    2. Bushi, Hiromu Takahashi, Sanada & Tetsuya Naito def. Ryusuke Taguchi, Tiger Mask, Shota Unno & Tomoaki Homma
    3. Taiji Ishimori def. Master Wato
    4. Hiroshi Tanahashi def. KENTA
    5. Ren Narita, El Desperado & Minoru Suzuki def. (C) SHO, Yujiro Takahashi & EVIL- Never Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Championship match
    6. Hikuleo def. Jay White- Loser Leaves Japan match
    7. (C) Tama Tonga def. El Phantasmo- Never Openweight Championship match
    8. (C) Kazuchika Okada def. Shingo Takagi- IWGP World Heavyweight Championship match