Major League Wrestling action figures are in the works, thanks to a new partnership between MLW and Boss Fight Studio.
Here’s the press release sent in to SEScoops, with additional details on the upcoming line of MLW action figures:
Boss Fight Studio announces MLW action figure line
Licensing deal to bring the world of MLW to action figures, accessories and more
June 24, 2022 – Norwood, MA – Boss Fight Studio, creator of fan favorite action figures, announced today they have acquired the license to make Major League Wrestling action figures. For the first time ever, MLW action figures and collectibles will be available featuring some of the league’s most iconic and popular fighters.
“As a huge wrestling fan myself, I can’t wait to bring the MLW talent to market in action figure form” says Erik Arana, Partner and Creative Art Director at Boss Fight Studio. “I’m extremely excited as a collector and fan at the lineup we’ve put together, including figures, accessories, and entertainment sets – while we’ll reveal more in the coming weeks, I can promise tons of excitement!” says Arana.
“Teaming up with Boss Fight to bring the world of MLW to fans as action figures and collectibles is something the fans have been demanding and we’re delighted to make it happen,” says Court Bauer, CEO and Founder of MLW. “We have a stacked lineup we’ve been working on. Boss Fight’s attention to detail and ability to bring figures to market that are not only incredibly fun to play with but are representative of the talent is key.”
The opening of the MLW catalog of talent is huge with 1:12 scale figures, accessories and entertainment sets all planned. “We have deluxe figures planned alongside some amazing playable sets,” says Arana. Boss Fight Studio is known for their highly articulated figures which translates into wrestling figures that can reach extreme poses for maximum play.
More announcements for specific characters and figure release timing will be shared over the coming months through the Boss Fight Studio social accounts.
Tonight will see Major League Wrestling’s fourth Battle Riot event, which will take place at the Melrose Ballroom, in New York City, New York.
The event will also see a taping of the promotion’s FUSION show with several huge matches announced.
The Battle Riot
The literal biggest match of the night will be the titular MLW Battle Riot match.
Like the WWE Royal Rumble, the match will see new competitors enter every 60 seconds, until all 40 participants have entered the match.
Names announced for the match include
Jacob Fatu
Killer Kross
Davey Richards
Real 1
Mads Krugger
Lince Dorado
EJ Nduka
Calvin Tankman
Alex Kane
Marshall Von Erich
Ross Von Erich
Matt Cross
Myron Reed
La Estrella of Dragon Gate
Lance Anoa’i
Little Guido
Juicy Finau
Ace Romero
KC Navarro
Mini Abismo Negro
The winner will earn a guaranteed shot at the MLW World Heavyweight Championship at any time of their choosing for up to one year.
The Smokeshow’s Debut
Scarlett Bordeaux will make her debut for MLW following her release from WWE last year.
After her release from WWE last year, Scarlett Bordeaux will be making her debut for MLW’s Featherweight Division.
Bordeaux will face off against Clara Carreras in the former’s debut for the promotion.
Championships on the Line
Myron Reed’s World Middleweight Championship is just one of multiple titles being defended tonight.
There’ll be plenty of titles on the line tonight, as MLW Featherweight World Champion Taya Valkyrie will make her first defense on the show, against Brittany Blake.
MLW National Openweight Champion Alex Kane (with Mr. Thomas) will defend against Davey Richards.
World Middleweight Champion Myron Reed will put his title on the line against La Estrella, Arez, and Lince Dorado.
MLW World Heavyweight Champion Alex Hammerstone was scheduled to defend against Bandido, but with the latter injured, it’s unclear what plans there are for the champ.
Other Matches
In addition to being in the Battle Riot, Killer Kross will face Matt Cross, while Real-1 (Enzo Amore) will take on Jacob Fatu.
The Von Erichs will face the Samoan Swat Team in tag-team action.
Former IMPACT and NXT superstar Scarlett Bordeaux is headed to Major League Wrestling.
The one-time DDT-Pro Ironman Heavymetalweight Champion will be making her debut at the promotion’s June 23rd Battle Riot IV pay-per-view from New York City’s legendary Melrose Ballroom. No opponent has been revealed for her as of yet.
Bordeaux was released from WWE, along with former NXT champion Karrion Kross, back in November of 2021 as a part of the company’s “budget cuts” from COVID-19. Outside of wrestling she works as an actress and a model.
Battle Riot serves as MLW’s Royal Rumble, and was won last year by current world champion, Alexander Hammerstone.
MLW has since sent out the following press release regarding Bordeaux’s debut, as well as an updated look at the Battle Riot IV card. Check it out below.
“Major League Wrestling issued the following press release announcing that former NXT and IMPACT superstar Scarlett Bordeaux will be making her debut for the promotion at the June 23rd Battle Riot IV event from the Melrose Ballroom in New York City. Check out the full details below.
Major League Wrestling today announced Scarlett Bordeaux will make her MLW in-ring debut at the Battle Riot when MLW returns to New York City’s Melrose Ballroom on June 23, featuring an MLW Fusion TV taping.
?Limited tickets are available at www.MLWNYC.com and on Eventbrite.
A heat advisory has been issued for the women’s featherweight division as pro wrestling’s smoke show, Scarlett Bordeaux, has officially joined Major League Wrestling.
MLW matchmaker Cesar Duran is meeting today with several potential opponent’s for the silver siren’s debut. A match announcement is forthcoming.”
In the meantime, it may be best to fall and pray to the Perfect 10 as Scarlett Bordeaux has made an ominous warning that all in MLW’s new featherweight division cannot stop the unstoppable.
Known as the doomsday duo, along with her husband Killer Kross, Bordeaux and Kross have left a path of destruction in their wake from Mexico to the US. Now, they have set their eyes on MLW as they look to turn up the heat in New York City June 23.
Promising destruction and domination, what happens when Scarlett Bordeaux makes her in-ring MLW debut?
Find out LIVE in New York City on June 23 at MLW Battle Riot IV!
Who will outlast, outfight and out riot 39 other wrestlers and earn a title shot against the World Champion? Find out June 23 in the Big Apple at the Melrose Ballroom.
Battle Riot Participants: Jacob Fatu Killer Kross Lince Dorado EJ Nduka Calvin Tankman Alex Kane Marshall Von Erich Matt Cross Mini Abismo Negro Plus more to be announced in the days ahead!
Scarlett Bordeaux makes her debut
More talent and matches will be announced in the coming weeks ahead at MLW.com.
WHAT IS THE BATTLE RIOT? 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.
There will be surprises! There will be legends! There will be WTF entries… and there will be no disqualifications!
Elimination is by pinfall, submission or by throwing an individual over the top rope.
Anything is possible in a Battle Riot!
WHAT DOES THE WINNER GET? The winner gets a World Heavyweight Title Shot anywhere, anytime! It could be that night; it could be in 6 months. The challenger has the key to unlock an instant title shot against whoever the champion is!
More athletes and matches will be announced at MLW.com.
Tickets start at $15 at MLWNYC.com and Eventbrite. Tickets will also be available day of show at the box office unless the event sales out in advance.
Major League Wrestling has announced that they have officially signed Lance Anoa’i, the cousin of current WWE Undisputed World champion Roman Reigns.
The wrestling promotion sent out a press release highlighting the heritage of the young star that includes being the grandson of legendary Afa the Wild Samoan:
“Lance Anoa’i, the grandson of the legendary Afa the Wild Samoan, son of Headshrinker Samu and cousin of Roman Reigns has signed with MLW. Lance’s new deal with MLW ensures the new era Samoan SWAT Team will be a force in the league for years to come.”
The 30-year-old made his wrestling debut back in 2010. He has since been wrestling on the independent circuit and has competed for a few known organizations.
This isn’t the first time Lance will be competing for MLW. He made his debut for the promotion back in March 2018. He has made several appearances for them since then.
Lance Anoa’i has also had multiple tryouts with WWE in the late 2010s. He has made several appearances as an enhancement talent for the company as well.
Back in May 2019, he represented the Anoa’i family in a match against Shane McMahon. Lance Anoa’i lost the bout and was saved by Roman Reigns from a post-match beatdown by McMahon and Drew McIntyre.
Major League Wrestling returned to Philadelphia, PA on Friday night for the latest MLW Fusion TV tapings from the 2300 Arena.
Here are the spoiler results from MLW Kings of Colosseum 2022, courtesy of Pro Wrestling.net:
Gangrel defeated Budd Heavy via pinfall.
National Openweight Champion Alex Kane and Davey Richards went to a 20-minute time limit draw. Afterwards, while Kane was attacking Richards, Myron Reed came out for the save but then joined in on the beatdown and aligned with Kane.
Lince Dorado, Taya Valkyrie and Microman defeated Arez, Holidead and Mini Abismo Negro. After the match the heels, the babyfaces were getting beat down which brought out The Blue Meanie and later The Sandman to make the save.
Los Maximos defeated two local wrestlers.
Middleweight Champion Myron Reed defeated KC Navarro and Arez via pinfall.
MLW World Heavyweight Champion Alexander Hammerstone retained against Richard Holliday.
The Samoan Swat Team defeated Los Aztecas via pinfall. Afterward, nZo attacked Fatu, who was at ringside.
Taya Valkyrie beat Holidead via submission to become the inaugural MLW Women’s Featherweight Champion.
“Hustle and Power” Calvin Tankman & EJ Nduka defeated “5150” Rivera & Hernandez and Ross Von Erich & Marshall Von Erich in a three-way via pinfall to retain the MLW Tag Team Championships. After the match, Los Maximos attacked the champs.
Major League Wrestling’s Court Bauer has provided an update on the company’s lawsuit against WWE that was filed back in January.
The lawsuit stated that WWE was tampering with MLW’s business practices, specifically their streaming deals with VICE TV and Tubi. It claimed that WWE intimidated VICE TV out of airing additional MLW content after the network agreed to air their weekly episodic Fusion, and got their potential deal with Tubi completely canceled.
Bauer told Raj Giri on the latest Wrestling Inc. Daily that MLW has “exceptional” evidence against WWE, but wasn’t willing to share it due to the nature of the lawsuit. He does state that the evidence will be available for the public to see in the near future.
“Yeah, it would probably be strategically unwise to spill the beans on that here and now. I’m not trying to blue-ball you here, but all I can share is that we have exceptional, exceptional evidence of tortious interference. And as the legal process plays out, the public will see the evidence. It will come out and it’s pretty damning.”
Later in the interview Giri would press Bauer for more information regarding the case, but Bauer remained tight-lipped.
WWE did respond to the initial lawsuit claim back January. They wrote: “WWE believes these claims have no merit and intends to vigorously defend itself against them.”
Major League Wrestling returns to the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA this Friday for Kings of Colosseum ’22.
This will be an MLW Fusion TV taping. If you’re in the Philadelphia area, limited tickets are still available at MLW2300.com and at the 2300 Arena box office.
The following matches are signed for the event:
World Heavyweight Champion Alex Hammerstone vs. Richard Holliday (with Alicia Atout)
Weapons of Mass Destruction Match: Jacob Fatu vs. Mads Krugger
Inaugural Women’s World Featherweight Championship: Taya Valkyrie vs. Holidead
nZo vs. Lince Dorado
The debut of the Samoan Swat Team vs. Los Aztecas
World Tag Team Championship 3-Way: Hustle & Power vs. Von Erichs vs. 5150
National Openweight Champion Alex Kane vs. a mystery victim/opponent
Matt Cross vs. ACH
World Middleweight Champion Myron Reed vs. Arez vs. KC Navarro
Brittany Blake vs. Zoey Skye
Microman vs. Mini Abismo Negro
Plus, appearances from Davey Richards, Cesar Duran, Gangrel, The Sandman, Blue Meanie and Savio Vega.
MLW sent out a press release announcing that the Blue Meanie will be returning to the promotion.
The ECW alumni is set to appear at the May 13th Kings of Colosseum event, which will also serve as a set of tapings for MLW’s weekly episodic, Fusion. The show takes place from the legendary 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. Full details on the Meanie’s appearance, as well as what the show’s card is looking like, below.
Major League Wrestling (MLW®) today announced the return of The Blue Meanie for Kings of Colosseum ’22 on Friday, May 13 at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, featuring an MLW Fusion TV taping.
Major League Wrestling returns to Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena on Friday, May 13. Buy tickets at http://MLW2300.com.
CARD
World Heavyweight Championship Alex Hammerstone (c) vs. Richard Holliday (with Alicia Atout)
Weapons of Mass Destruction Match Jacob Fatu vs. Mads Krugger
Inaugural Women’s World Featherweight Championship Taya Valkyrie vs. Holidead
nZo vs. Lince Dorado
Microman vs. Mini Abismo Negro
World Tag Team Championship 3-Way: Hustle & Power vs. Von Erichs vs. 5150
THE THRILLA IN PHILA National Openweight Championship Alex Kane vs. TBD Victim
Matt Cross vs. ACH
World Middleweight Championship: Myron Reed (c) vs. Arez vs. KC Navarro
The return of Los Maximos!Some of the athletes and talent signed to compete and appear include: Davey RichardsCesar DuranGangrelThe SandmanThe Blue MeanieSavio VegaPlus MORE wrestlers will be announced soon. More athletes and matches will be announced at MLW.com.
Buy tickets at MLW2300.com. Tickets start at $15. Tickets will also be available day of show at the box office unless the event sales out in advance.
DAY OF EVENT INFO The schedule is as follows:
6:00 p.m.: Early entry for First Row Ticket Holders 6:30 p.m.: Doors open for general public (all ticket holders) 7:25 p.m.: Showtime
MORE ABOUT THE VENUE 2300 Arena (previously named Viking Hall, ECW Arena, New Alhambra Arena, Asylum Arena and The Arena) is a multipurpose indoor arena used primarily for professional wrestling, boxing, mixed martial arts, and concert events.
MLW could be on the verge of a new deal through a cable or streaming partner.
It’s no secret that MLW has been looking to make a splash with a big broadcast deal. The search was seemingly over as they were set to enter a lucrative deal with Tubi, which is a streaming service owned by FOX.
MLW has filed an antitrust lawsuit against WWE, alleging the promotion halted the deal with Tubi. FOX has a deal with WWE, allowing them to air SmackDown every Friday night.
While that case is ongoing, MLW’s Court Bauer appeared on Busted Open Radio to confirm that there have been serious talks with another cable or streaming partner (via Putting You Over).
“I can confirm that we are in deep talks with a possible player either in cable or in streaming. I can’t say anything else, I’ll get into trouble but we’ve been working on something for a bit.”
MLW has been the home of some great talent including MJF, who left the promotion in favor of a full-time deal with AEW. Max last appeared for MLW back in Jan. 2020.
Today, MLW features talent such as the promotion’s current heavyweight champion Alex Hammerstone, Jacob Fatu, and Richard Holliday.
FTR have been invited to walk through another forbidden door that leads to Major League Wrestling (MLW).
Earlier this week, earlier this week, Twitter account “Luchablog” noticed that FTR recently racked up four wins over tag team comprised of brothers:
Dragon Lee and Dralistico
The Gunn Club (Austin & Colten Gunn)
The Briscoes (Jay and Mark Briscoe)
The Young Bucks (Nick and Matt Jackson)
Dax Harwood of FTR asked, “Isn’t there a pair of Von Erich’s running around or something?” In fact, there are. Ross and Marshall Von Erich have been carrying on the family name as they hone their craft in MLW.
Marshall Von Erich saw Harwood’s tweet and replied, “Challenge accepted! My brother and I have never run from a fight and we want to face the best in the world.”
FTR vs. The Von Erichs
The exchange got the attention of MLW CEO Court Bauer, who offered to host this interpromotional tag match at an upcoming show.
Bauer is ready for the Von Erichs to step up against FTR at one of MLW’s upcoming shows, either May 13th from Philadelphia or the next time MLW returns to Dallas (“Von Erich country.”)
FTR has been on a tear as of late. The reigning ROH and AAA World tag team champions are hell-bent on proving they’re the best team in the world. They’ve shown their willingness to wrestle top challengers no matter what promotion they call home.
MLW returns to Philadelphia’s 2300 arena with Kings of Colosseum 2022 on Friday, May 13th. This is an MLW Fusion taping, with a double main event featuring:
MLW World Champion Alex Hammerstone vs. Richard Holliday
Jacob Fatu vs. Mads Krugger in a Weapons of Mass Destruction match
If you’re in the Philly area, tickets are now on sale at MLW2300.com.
Taya Valkyrie returns to MLW on Friday, May 13th at the Kings of Colosseum ’22 event from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA.
The Queen of Lucha’s big return was announced on this week’s MLW Fusion. Valkyrie last competed for MLW in September 2019.
Taya has held championships around the world and will be a contender for the new MLW World Featherweight championship that is being introduced soon.
In a statement released on Thursday, MLW CEO Court Bauer had this to say about Taya Valkyrie:
“Frankly, money is how I’d describe Taya,” said Bauer. “Taya is a world class athlete and force of nature. Taya’s arrival will send shockwaves through the division. The road to winning the featherweight title just got a lot harder for her fellow competitors.”
The following matches have ben announced for MLW Kings of Colosseum ’22 on 5/13:
World Heavyweight Championship Alex Hammerstone (c) vs. Richard Holliday (with Alicia Atout)
Weapons of Mass Destruction Match Jacob Fatu vs. Mads Krugger
Also appearing:
Davey Richards
nZo
Microman with Mister Saint Laurent
World Tag Team Champions Hustle & Power (Calvin Tankman & EJ Nduka)
Ross & Marshall Von Erich
National Openweight Champion Alex Kane (with Mr. Thomas)
Something has got to give in the rivalry involving Hammerstone and Richard Holliday.
On MLW TV, Holliday had been Hammerstone’s friend but sometimes the gold will change people. Holliday betrayed Hammerstone, attacking him in Dallas earlier this year and he made his intentions clear. He wants the MLW World Heavyweight Championship.
With Alicia Atout by his side, it’s safe to say Holliday will go through every nefarious trick he can to take the title home. MLW has announced that Hammerstone vs. Holliday will be contested for the promotion’s top prize on May 13.
The title match will headline MLW’s Kings of Colosseum ’22 event.
The action will be held inside the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Tickets are on sale now.
At the Intimidation Games event in Dallas, Texas, the former MLW Champion Shane Strickland officially made his return.
MLW’s Dallas Tapings
This year’s Intimidation Games was the third event under the Intimidation Games chronology. The event is a television taping for MLW Fusion. Intimidation Games 2022 took place on March 31, 2022, at Gilley’s Dallas in Dallas, Texas. There is also another major MLW event scheduled in Dallas for WrestleMania weekend. The other event is MLW Azteca Underground TV taping that is scheduled for April 1, 2022 at 3:00 PM EST.
Myron Reed’s Title Reign
Back at the January 21, 2022 MLW Tapings, Myron Reed defeated Yoshihiro Tajiri, Matt Cross, and Bandido in a to become a record-setting three time MLW World Middleweight Champion. At this time, Reed has held the championship for 69 days.
Shane “Swerve” Strickland Returns To MLW
Apparently, at these tapings Myron issued an open challenge for the MLW World Middleweight Title which was answered by All Elite Wrestling’s Shane “Swerve” Strickland. It should be noted, this was Swerve’s first match in MLW since the January 18, 2019 episode of MLW Fusion. Swerve was also the first MLW World Champion when the company was rebooted in 2018.
Earlier in the day, on Twitter, Major League Wrestling hinted at a possible entry into their company through the forbidden door which would end up being the former Hit Row member.
Cesar Duran will be stepping in the ring this Friday in Dallas, Texas at Major League Wrestling’s Azteca Underground supercard event.
The company announced the booking of the match, stating that it will have a no holds barred stipulation.
The proprietor of Azteca Underground and MLW matchmaker Cesar Duran will make his in-ring debut for the promotion. Duran has booked himself in a match against the MLW World Heavyweight Champion Alex Hammerstone.
According to the announcement, Duran has stated that Hammerstone will be begging to quit in under 5 minutes as he will showcase his lucha skills in the ring.
Ever since Alex Hammerstone won the World Championship at the Winner takes all match in MLW Fightland in October, Cesar Duran has been after him. Hammerstone has rejected Duran’s offer to be under his control, earning the ire of the MLW matchmaker.
El Jefe has said that this match is not a publicity stunt, and there will be “violent consequences” at the event for Hammerstone.
Alex Hammerstone is already booked in a six-man tag team match on the event, teaming up with The Von Erichs (Marshall Von Erich and Ross Von Erich) going against the team of King Muertes, Mads Krügger, and Richard Holliday.
“Seeing the Von Erichs wrestle in Dallas is a rite of passage; like seeing Elvis in Memphis, if you’re a fan of the sport, this is an experience you can’t afford to miss,” MLW CEO Court Bauer said about the tag-team match. “And what better way than a six-man clash featuring some of MLW’s top-ranked and most dangerous.”
MLW will also hold the Intimidation Games event as a FUSION taping on Thursday, March 31 at Gilley’s Dallas in Dallas, Texas. A triple threat match for the World Heavyweight Championship has been set with the champion Alex Hammerstone defending his title against Jacob Fatu and Mads Krugger. MLW also said that several mystery matches will be revealed on the night of the event. The next day on Friday, April 1, MLW will hold the Azteca Underground event. It is the second event held under the “Azteca” banner. The Azteca/The Crash show from 2021 is the first one.
Wrestling legend Gangrel spoke with SEScoops Ella Jay this week to promote his return to Major League Wrestling (MLW). The Attitude Era star competed on this week’s episode of MLW Fusion, which you can catch on YouTube.
We discussed a wide variety of topics, including his 30+ years in the business, what’s missing from wrestling today, his career coming full circle, his goals in MLW and much more.
Here’s our half-hour interview with Gangrel, with some highlights below:
His Goals in MLW
Gangrel was asked if he is interested in going after a championship or if he simply enjoys working with up-and-coming talent and showing fans that he can still go in the ring.
“Well as my records show in the past, I don’t think I’ve had too many championships in any major company. So that’s not really my number one goal but I do enjoy working with the young talent and most of that locker room I’ve crossed paths with in the ring at some time or another, throughout the early points in their career and stuff like that”.
He continued, “I’ve trained Jacob Fatu – he was one of my students so I trained him, and then I hear rumors Holidead’s coming to MLW, I’ve trained her. Plus I’ve probably wrestled Alexander Hammerstone thirty times, and many of the other guys in the locker room. I enjoy bringing a bit of the old school meeting the new school, and mixing it in the middle and seeing what we come up with.”
Old School vs. New School
Gangrel was asked how he would describe the old school style vs the new school style, and what happens when the two styles meet together.
“The key word is ‘moment’. There’s no wasted moments. There’s no wasted moves to build to great moments. They’re so talented and athletic, there’s so much athletic ability. Also with the luchadors and the international market that MLW is in right now, it’s insane. I’ve travelled the world, probably wrestled more in Europe than I have in the United States and when you start logging in matches, I’ve done eighteen years in Europe. So if you had them up against the full-time schedule in the States, it’s really close and I think Europe might outweigh it working seven days a week there twice a day sometimes.
So with that and then the time I spent in Puerto Rico and then in Calgary and whatnot, so many different styles and I love that MLW has that flavor and that little spark to it – that international flavor. No one match is the same. You watch it, and you can watch other companies and it’s like the same match after the same match but here, they’re all different and I’m really looking forward to adding my bit of ‘hot sauce’ to that ‘stew’.”
Why MLW is a Good Fit for Gangrel
Gangrel in MLW (2022)
Gangrel was also asked what made MLW a good fit for him. He said that he always drifted to MLW whenever he wanted to watch some wrestling while doing cardio, and that’s why he wanted to work in the promotion.
“It’s the flavor of it. It’s just that allure. I just sit down when I’m doing cardio, like a lot, when I watch wrestling. I can’t sit still. I don’t have enough time to sit down at home and watch wrestling. But when I do cardio, I always drift – out of all the companies that you can go find out there – WWE, the AEW, Ring of Honor, Impact – I always drift to MLW. I think it just has something about it, that flavor and something just draws me to it that I just really enjoy. I’ve enjoyed watching that out of all the other companies, now I’m gonna enjoy being a part of that company and hopefully I can add my own little bit of pizzazz and my own little spark to it and and make it a better way.”
His Career Coming Full Circle in Florida
Gangrel trained in Florida in the late ’80s and about 35 years later, it’s kind of a full circle moment for him as he’s training wrestlers in the same state that he trained in. Gangrel was asked what’s it like for him to have his career come full circle like that in Florida:
“Well, it’s home, Florida’s home. Born and raised, so full circle back around. When I was getting into wrestling, I didn’t have a lot of money and whatnot for tuitions and things that go along with the school. The people training me, I said [to them] ‘Listen, I can’t really afford this.’ and I was gonna pull out of it and everything. And they said ‘We’re gonna train you. Don’t worry about it. We’re gonna put you on the books as a trainer, just always give back to professional wrestling.’
“So I’ve just tried to stay true to my word and I’ve always tried to continue on in some type of training somewhere. Whether it was California with KnokX Pro which is a school I opened with Rikishi, or I had my own school for a while, GWA here [Florida]. Now I’m with CCW – Coastal Championship Wrestling and running their facility which is so crazy busy. I’m there Monday through Thursday. It’s crazy, and I’m doing private sessions. I’m doing one-on-one, training Paige VanZant now. Things are crazy so I’m like super super busy, but it’s an honor. I’m honored to be able to give back. It’s a blessing and I love pro wrestling so anytime I get to do what I love, anytime I get to lace a pair of boots up, climb through some ropes and get into that ring… It’s just a blessing and I’m honored. I might be nice and smiling now, but when I get in there, I’m gnarly and nasty. I’m even nastier as a trainer than I am as Gangrel the vampire.”
Today’s Generation of Wrestling Fans
Gangrel also touched on the differences in the wrestling community today compared to the old school days:
“Well, one is the size of the wrestlers has changed. But I don’t know, MLW got Killer Kross there now, Alexander Hammerstone, Jacob Fatu, you got some pretty big guys walking around in MLW, some pretty gnarly dudes too. It’s still wrestling, the objective of it is to win a match. Pin somebody’s shoulders. As for the characters, for a lack of better words, heel and babyface – a good guy or a bad guy. Well now it’s more like, the fans kinda cheer for who they want. The MLW though, I feel that’s another thing that I’m drawn to. There is a clear villain. There’s a clear white hat and black hat. Pick a side and ride it out. I like that a lot about MLW. But with a lot of wrestling, in the sense that’s changed. It’s just like everybody goes out there and does a million moves. There’s a lot of wasted movements and stuff like that. So that’s changed, but it’s still pro wrestling. You’re still trying to pin somebody, get your hand raised for the victory and all that.”
What’s Missing from Wrestling Today
Modern pro wrestling is very different than the pro wrestling of past eras. According to Gangrel, the number one thing missing from wrestling is..
“Magic. Everybody knows the tricks now. Magic made a difference. Everybody wants to believe in something. I think a wrestler’s believability. I believe that Killer Kross could kill somebody, you know? Alexander Hammerstone. I believe that he could pick anybody up and give him the pendulum. Jacob Fatu, I believe is a savage. I trained him so I know he’s a savage. I know if you get on his bad side, it can go all all kinds of sideways. This magic, the mystique, the mystery of a pro wrestler is what I think is missing.”
Gangrel added that MLW is touching base on that and trying to dial that back in, but he thinks the allure is missing from professional wrestling overall. He also thinks the advent of the internet and social media has contributed significantly to this.
“With the internet and social media you can’t really pull the wool over anybody’s eyes. It’s super hard. But one person can make you believe that they’re one bad mofo. That one person can make you believe in him and if next to you a guy across the ring makes you believe, it can be a chain reaction. Slowly, you can at least get people to believe in you and your character, even if they think they know what’s gonna happen and they can research it and go get spoiler alerts. But you can make them believe in you and that’s still magic.”
Freedom of Speech in Wrestling
Conversely, Gangrel wished there was more freedom of speech present in the wrestling business when he started out:
“More freedom of speech. When I broke in, it was more like ‘ears open mouth shut’. Whereas in this generation, they have a lot more input in things. They’re not afraid to put their thoughts out there and personal things in their characters. Back then it was just ‘Shut up kid or we’re gonna break your legs,’ and you’re gone tomorrow. I hate to say it, but it was the ‘Hey brother’ system. Now it’s more open to things and wrestling just in a general is a wide open area now. You can take advantage of more things. It was just all like, black and white back then. I believe in the good guy and a bad guy, a heel and a face. I truly believe in the whole good guy-bad guy thing but I think there was still a whole spectrum of characters missing with people’s individualities and the freedoms to be who they are.”
The Importance of Creative Freedom
Gangrel also talked about how creative freedom is so important, especially when you’re playing a character like Gangrel that needs its own unique style in the ring.
“I was terrified to do the vampire thing. Luna [Vachon] kept telling me ‘That was always okay, you can do it!’ I was like ‘Oh no way!’ Because I broke in ’87, there were no vampires running around with fangs and stuff in the ring. They’d be like ‘Beach up. What’s wrong with you kid? You on drugs? I told you not to take that acid or whatever it is you’re taking.’
“But I did it slowly and then the times just kept changing. I came in during the late ’80s and ’90s and then things evolved and it is where it is today. Now they don’t think twice about it. They go, ‘Yeah, a vampire. At least it doesn’t sparkle’ [referring to the Twilight series].”
How He Keeps up with Wrestling
Gangrel was asked how he manages to stay informed on professional wrestling programming and news with his hectic schedule, to be able to cover it on his podcast Fangin n Bangin.
“Don’t tell anybody, but I just listen to the dirtsheets,” Gangrel said jokingly. “I try to watch it, but it’s very hard. I get so lost, there’s just so much to keep track of in current wrestling. I need to stay current and it’s tough.”
Gangrel explained that he has to keep up to date with current programming to know what his students’ mindframes are. “As far as the results go, I look at it on certain sites and read the results. If something piques my interest then I go watch it. For the most part, I watch a lot of wrestling when I’m doing cardio.”
MLW’s two next shows are scheduled for WrestleMania weekend, at Gilley’s in Dallas, TX. If you’re in town, visit MLWTix.com for ticket information.
AEW has seen exceptional growth for a company that is less than 3 years old. So much so that even WWE has been forced to acknowledge their success.
The Vince McMahon-owned promotion is currently facing a lawsuit from MLW, who have accused the company of trying to monopolize the wrestling market.
In response to the lawsuit, WWE filed a 35-page motion. Dave Meltzer noted how WWE brought up the October 15, 2021 episode of SmackDown to prove that they are not a dominant monopoly.
In the WWE's response to the MLW lawsuit, besides the written response they provided an exhibit. The exhibit was the October 18, 2021 issue of the Observer that covered WWE losing the 30 minutes head-to-head with AEW as evidence they weren't a dominant monopoly.
The episode saw the final 30 minutes of the blue branded show going head-to-head with Rampage. The AEW show beat SmackDown in the 18-49 male demo 0.34 to 0.32.
The response further mentioned how AEW managed to capture an average 0.344 rating in the 18-49 demo in 2020. This was in comparison to Raw’s 0.5075 rating in the same demo.
WWE’s response used AEW’s ‘successful entry and expansion’ to refute claims that substantial barriers to entry exists in the market.
MLW, who have accused WWE of interfering in their deal with Tubi and preventing it from happening, have not responded to this motion yet. We’ll keep you updated on further developments.
WWE has taken the first step to dismiss a lawsuit against them by MLW. Major League Wrestling filed a lawsuit this past January where they alleged attempts to monopolize the wrestling market and undermine the competition.
The center of the case is regarding a potential partnership with streaming service Tubi as MLW accused WWE of not wanting Tubi, owned by FOX, to work with a rival promotion and that the company put a stop to the deal before it could be completed.
WWE’s attorney Jerry McDevitt has publicly stated that MLW shouldn’t be suing WWE, but rather Tubi for breaking the deal. WWE was served with it on January 14th. MLW was granted a motion to seal their financial information.
WWE has filed a motion to dismiss the case as they argued that LLW failed to please “a facially sustainable relevant market, monopoly power or anticompetitive conduct, or antitrust injury.”
They also argued, “MLW’s claim for intentional interference with contractual relations is unsupported by factual allegations, and what allegations MW pleads are entirely implausible.”
Finally, WWE argued the case should be thrown out as neither company is a resident in California, which is where the lawsuit is filed.
WWE has filed a motion today to dismiss MLW's lawsuit in California, which was filed in January, alleging WWE interfered in potential MLW media deals including one with Tubi.
“League officials have been meeting with Cesar Duran as El Jefe looks to rev up the women’s featherweight division in the weeks and months ahead.
In fact, MLW.com has learned that the first women’s featherweight championship is being designed.”
MLW has been beefing up its women’s division since last year. Female competitors listed on the MLW fighters page include Ashley Vox, Delmi Exo and Miranda Gordy.
MLW’s Champions
Here’s a roll call of the current MLW Champions:
World Heavyweight Champion: Alex Hammerstone
World Tag Team Champions 5150: Rivera & Slice Boogie
World Middleweight Champion: Myron Reed
National Openweight Champion: Alex Kane
MLW’s Next Show
MLW’s next events are scheduled for WrestleMania 38 weekend in Dallas, TX. Two shows are scheduled for Thursday, March 31st and Friday, April 1st from Gilley’s Dallas.
If you’re in the Dallas area for WrestleMania weekend, visit Eventbrite.com to check out the MLW shows
Lio Rush is returning to Major League Wrestling. The promotion announced recently that he will return at Kings of the Coliseum held on May 13th from Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena.
Rush is a former World Middleweight Champion in the promotion. He won the title from Myron Reed in January of 2021. He then dropped it back to Reed in May of the same year.
Rush officially became a free agent earlier this week on February 14th after his AEW deal expired.
Coming Up In MLW
The next card for Major League Wrestling takes place February 26th, 2022 from Charlotte, NC in the Grady Cole Center. The following matches have been announced for the show.
MLW World Heavyweight Championship Alexander Hammerstone (c) vs Davey Richards
Stairway to Hell Match Mads Krugger vs Jacob Fatu
Killer Kross Returns
The Von Erichs vs Ricky & Kerry Morton
Ricky Steamboat serves as match-maker.
nZo vs KC Navarro
National Openweight Championship Alex Kane vs Calvin Tankman vs Matt Cross vs ACH
Gino Medina, Mini Abismo Negro, & Ares vs Puma King, Octagon Jr. & TBA
MLW will then be in Gilley’s in Dallas, Texas on March 31st and April 1st, with the latter being an Azteca Underground show.
Major League Wrestling (MLW) is returning to Chicago’s Cicero Stadium this summer.
MLW boss Court Bauer appeared on ESPN Chicago’s Tuesday Wrestling Tuesday with Jonathan Hood to announce the news.
Tickets for this event go on sale Tuesday, March 1st at at MLWgo.com and Eventbrite.com. As part of a ‘fan appreciation’ experience, MLW fans can meet and greet their favorite MLW fighters ahead of the show.
Top stars advertised for the event include World Heavyweight Champion Alex Hammerstone, Los Parks, Jacob Fatu, Davey Richards, King Muertes, EJ Nduka, Calvin Tankman, National Openweight Champion Alex Kane, Richard Holliday with Alicia Atout and more.
Additional details about the card will be announced in the weeks ahead.
Brace yourselves MLW fans, a “major player” was teased and it was Killer Kross.
MLW was streaming its Fusion show for free on YouTube.
Just before Fusion got started, Court Bauer revealed a big talent would be taking the leap to MLW.
“Tonight on MLW Fusion a major player enters MLW. 8pm et streaming worldwide.”
During the show, a vignette was shown and it appeared to indeed be Killer Kross. MLW hadn’t stated that Kross was indeed the “major player” until later in the show.
MLW confirmed that Killer Kross will be making his return on Feb. 26. He’ll be in action inside the Grady Cole Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Speculation had run rampant on social media. Many believed that Killer Kross was the one stepping back into the world of MLW. Kross was released by WWE along with his fiancé Scarlett Bordeaux late last year.
Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat has been booked for MLW’s February 26th, 2022 show in Charlotte, North Carolina. Steamboat will play the role as MLW match-maker for the event as well.
“The legend returns to the hallowed grounds of the Grady Cole Center where “The Dragon” emerged as a main eventer and forever became a part of Charlotte’s rich wrestling history,” reads an MLW press release.
“Celebrated as one of the sport’s all-time greats, Ricky Steamboat has signed on as the matchmaker for MLW’s big Charlotte card.”
MLW’s current match-maker is Cesar Duran. He is the former Dario Cueto from Lucha Underground and plays a very similar role in MLW. The promotion is currently airing episodes of “MLW Azteca”. These episodes feature matches taped during their show in Tijuana, Mexico on December 3rd.
One match already booked for the show in Charlotte will see Alexander Hammerstone defend his MLW World Championship. Hammerstone will face the winner of the 2021 Opera Cup, Davey Richards.
The 68-year-old Steamboat is a 1x NWA World Heavyweight Champion. He was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame Class of 2009. Additionally, Steamboat was a 4x NWA United States Champion, 1x WWE Intercontinental Champion, 2x Mid-Atlantic NWA Heavyweight Champion.
MLW presented Blood and Thunder from Gilley’s in Dallas, Texas last night. The MLW World Middleweight Championship changed hands on the show.
In a triple threat match for the title, defending champion Tajiri took on former champion Myron Reed and Bandido. Reed picked up the victory and won the title for a record 3rd time. Tajiri’s reign ends at 111 days. During his reign, the 51-year-old successfully defended the title on an All Japan show against Atsuki Aoyagi in a match that aired on MLW programming.
Frequent viewers of MLW programming have witnessed a budding romance between Richard Holliday and Alicia Atout, although neither has really admitted to this. It appears there was a big development on their angle during the tapings as the below Tweet indicates.
Unfortunately for MLW, this show was dealt a significant blow when Ross and Marshall Von Erich had to be pulled after testing positive for COVID-19. A major angle had been set up with the Von Erichs attempting to win the tag team titles in Dallas for the first time in 40 years. Other matches scheduled to air as part of these tapings are below:
MLW World Heavyweight Championship Falls Count Anywhere Alexander Hammerstone (c) vs. Pagano
MLW Middleweight World Championship Tajiri (c) vs. Myron Reed vs. TBA
National Openweight Championship Alex Kane (c) vs. Calvin Tankman
TJP vs. Matt Cross
Jacob Fatu vs. Mads Krugger
Miranda Gordy vs. Rok-C
Davey Richards vs. ACH
Aramis, El Dragon & TBA vs. Arez, Gino Medina & Mini Abismo Negro
Buddy Matthews has just been announced for tonight’s Blood and Thunder show in Dallas promoted by MLW. The promotion is stating that Matthews is taking part in MLW’s new “open door” policy for free agents. An opponent for Matthews has yet to be revealed for the show.
Tonight’s show at Gilley’s in Dallas was dealt a blow recently when it was revealed that Ross and Marshall Von Erich both tested positive for COVID-19 and will not be there. Much of the build up to the show focussed on the Von Erichs returning to Dallas and seeking to win a title there for the first time in 40 years. They were scheduled to challenge 5150 (Rivera and Slice Boogie) for the MLW World Tag Team Championships.
Below are the matches officially confirmed for the show:
MLW World Heavyweight Championship Falls Count Anywhere Alexander Hammerstone (c) vs. Pagano
MLW Middleweight World Championship Tajiri (c) vs. Myron Reed vs. TBA
National Openweight Championship Alex Kane (c) vs. Calvin Tankman
TJP vs. Matt Cross
Jacob Fatu vs. Mads Krugger
Miranda Gordy vs. Rok-C
Davey Richards vs. ACH
Aramis, El Dragon & TBA vs. Arez, Gino Medina & Mini Abismo Negro
