SEScoops

Category: MLW

  • Will Ospreay Set To Make MLW Debut This Fall

    Will Ospreay Set To Make MLW Debut This Fall

    Will Ospreay continues to make his mark in NJPW and RevPro, but now MLW has entered the fray.

    That right, the self-proclaimed “real” IWGP World Heavyweight Champion will be making his debut for MLW. The announcement was made during an MLW Embedded segment on the MLW FIGHTLAND special.

    Will Ospreay will make his MLW debut sometime in the fall.

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1446301806729080850

    MLW boss Court Bauer had teased on social media, “Someone is coming to MLW and it has a certain billionaire tripping over himself to undermine it.”

    Back in August, Ospreay made his surprise return to NJPW. He had been out of action with a neck injury and was even stripped of the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship. Will Ospreay showed up at Resurgence in Los Angeles.

    Ospreay declared himself to be the real IWGP World Heavyweight Champion. This is despite the fact that Shingo Takagi is the actual titleholder. Don’t tell that to the leader of the United Empire, however, as he considers Shingo to be an “interim” champion.

    Ospreay, who also holds the British Heavyweight Championship in RevPro, said he’d make NJPW Strong his home. He vowed not to come back to Japan until NJPW apologizes and recognizes him as the true IWGP World Heavyweight Champion.

    Perhaps the MLW announcement shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. After all, Ospreay did warn fans that you never know where he might show up.

    SEScoops recently interviewed Ospreay, who took shots at AEW stars CM Punk, Bryan Danielson, and Kenny Omega.

    Will Ospreay Ready to Embarrass AEW’s Top Stars (Exclusive)

    The sky is the limit for Ospreay just about anywhere he goes, and MLW is no exception. Who will he target first? Could he be looking to recruit an MLW talent for the United Empire?

  • MLW: FIGHTLAND On Vice TV Preview, Big Talent Acquisition To Be Revealed

    MLW: FIGHTLAND On Vice TV Preview, Big Talent Acquisition To Be Revealed

    Major League Wrestling presents FIGHTLAND tonight at 10 PM est on VICE TV following an all-new episode of Dark Side of the Ring. The show was filmed on October 2nd from Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena.

    Two title matches will air on tonight’s 1-hour special. In a title for title match, MLW World Champion Jacob Fatu will face MLW National Openweight Champion Alexander Hammerstone. MLW is billing this as the biggest fight in league history. SEScoops was on hand for the taping and this match is a must-see. Spoilers from the full show are available here.

    The MLW World Middleweight Championship will also be on the line when champion Myron Reed defends against Yoshihiro Tajiri, Arez, and Aramis in a 4-way bout.

    Court Bauer has also announced that a new big talent acquisition will be revealed on tonight’s show.

    https://twitter.com/courtbauer/status/1446132960357462018

    MLW has been getting mainstream attention ahead of Fightland. The Washington Post also sent a correspondent to the show. Their coverage of the event is available here.

    “We’ve been the best-kept secret in wrestling for a long time,” Alexander Hammerstone said to the Washington Post. “It’s time to get in front of more eyes, and if tonight is any indication of what we’re going to do moving forward, it’s going to be some pretty big things.”

    Court Bauer also spoke to the Washington Post about losing talent to other promotions recently. He noted that his promotion is essentially a “free agent” in terms of a big-league television rights deal.

    “We couldn’t afford to keep them,” Bauer said about departing talent. “But as our rights deals get better, we’ll pay the talent. We always tell the talent, we’ll grow with you. If you believe in the system, trust the process. This is why all the promoters want you, because we’ve got you.”

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1446088322099593223

    ECW original The Blue Meanie took part in the show. He also spoke to the Washington Post about MLW and the promotion’s future.

    “The thing that bums me out is that everyone is so focused on AEW and WWE right now, but here you have MLW, who’s putting on just as good, or maybe even a better product than the two big two,” Meanie said. “I think MLW is definitely more intriguing than WWE right now. Hopefully, this next venture they’re doing with Vice TV leads to more growth.”

    Tonight’s episode of Dark Side of the Ring is on the life and career of Johnny K9.

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1445932137484595205
  • Details On MLW Trying To Sign Braun Strowman And Bo Dallas

    Details On MLW Trying To Sign Braun Strowman And Bo Dallas

    MLW tried to sign both Bo Dallas and Braun Strowman after their release from WWE earlier this year. Though they couldn’t reach a deal with either of them.

    The company CEO Court Bauer hosted a media call to promote their upcoming Fightland special. It’s scheduled to air on Vice TV this Thursday.

    During the talk, Bauer was asked if they have had any discussions with recently released stars such as Bray Wyatt. Replying to it, he revealed that they actually had a conversation with Bray’s real life brother, Bo Dallas:

    “So, we had conversations with Bray’s brother, and I think he seems more interested in farming, I understand having to re-charge, you gotta re-charge for another run, but right now it seems like he’s more interested in doing some farming.”

    In regards of the former Universal champion, the MLW founder revealed that they did talk to the monster among men about a potential deal. Though they couldn’t come to terms with the former Wyatt family member either:

    “And we did talk with Braun Strowman for a little bit, and didn’t come to terms on a deal. I can’t say where they’re gonna be headed or not, I don’t really know.”

    Bo Dallas had already been preparing for his life after wrestling even before his release from WWE. So it’s no surprise that he is more interested in working on the farm he owns with Liv Morgan at the moment.

    Braun Strowman on the other hand has had discussions with multiple promotions. Latest reports on his future indicate that Impact Wrestling is the most likely future destination for the former WWE star.

    Braun Strowman Reveals How He Got His Big Break In WWE
  • MLW: Fightland Spoilers From Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena

    MLW: Fightland Spoilers From Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena

    At MLW: Fightland last night from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, MLW World Champion Jacob Fatu faced MLW National Openweight Champion Alexander Hammerstone in a title vs title match. The show is set to air as a 1-hour special on Vice TV Thursday night after a new episode of Dark Side of the Ring.

    Alexander Hammerstone defeated Jacob Fatu to win the MLW World Title and also retain his MLW National Openweight Championship. The win ends Fatu’s 819 day reign with the title. He originally won the belt at Kings of the Colosseum on July 6th, 2019.

    Yoshihiro Tajiri is the new MLW World Middleweight Champion. He won a 4-way match featuring Arez, Aramis and former champ Myron Reed.

    Los Parks defeated 5150 in tag-team action. Homicide joined the LAX-inspired 5150 faction as well during the event. Currently, 5150 consists of Konnan, Slice Boogie, Danny Rivera, Julius Smokes, and now Homicide.

    Nicole Savoy defeated Holidead on the show but suffered an injury. She was taken to hospital and is believed to have suffered a rib injury.

    Karlee Leilani Perez, aka Catrina from Lucha Underground, debuted for the promotion. She accompanied King Muertes to the ring.

    Opera Cup Results

    Opening round:

    • Calvin Tankman defeated Matt Cross
    • Bobby Fish defeated Lee Moriarty
    • Davey Richards defeated Tom Lawlor
    • TJP defeated Alex Shelley

    ** TJP was injured and replaced in the semi-finals.

    Semi-Finals:

    • Calvin Tankman defeated Alex Kane
    • Davey Richards defeated Bobby Fish

    Calvin Tankman will face Davey Richards in the finals at a later date.

    Other MLW: Fightland results:

    • MLW Caribbean Championship
      Mil Muertes w/Catrina defeated Tom Lawlor
    • Mads Krugger defeated Dr. Dax.
    • Alex Kane defeated Warhorse
    https://twitter.com/SeanRossSapp/status/1444507664852078602

    MLW World Champions

    With the win at MLW: Fightland, Hammerstone becomes the 9th wrestler to ever win the MLW World Championship. No wrestler has ever held the title more than once. Hammerstone earned the right to challenge Fatu for the belt after winning the Battle Riot event this summer.

    MLW 2002-2004

    1. Shane Douglas (90 days, 0 title defenses)
    2. Satoshi Kojima (267 days, 8 title defences)
    3. Mike Awesome (0 full days, 0 title defences)
    4. Steve Corino (265 days, 2 title defences)

    MLW 2018 – Present

    1. Shane Strickland (91 days, 1 title defence)
    2. Low-Ki (205 days, 7 title defences)
    3. Tom Lawlor (154 days, 3 title defences)
    4. Jacob Fatu (819 days, 10 title defences)
  • Warhorse To Make MLW Debut At Fightland

    Warhorse To Make MLW Debut At Fightland

    MLW has announced that Warhorse will make his promotional debut at October 2nd’s Fightland event. The show will take place from Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena. The event will air as a 1-hour special on Vice TV October 7th following a new episode of Dark Side of the Ring.

    “It’s time to bang heads and crack skulls as Warhorse makes his MLW debut Saturday October 2 in Philadelphia at FIGHTLAND,” an MLW press release reads.

    The heavy metal wrestler performs with GCW, Warrior Wrestling and many independent promotions but also wrestled Cody Rhodes for the TNT Championship on an episode of AEW Dynamite last year.

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1440486571489128454

    MLW Fightland Lineup

    Alex Shelley, Tom Lawlor, Bobby Fish, Lee Moriarty Davey Richards, TJP, Matt Cross, and Calvin Tankman have all been announced for the Opera Cup tournament.

    • MLW Heavyweight Championship
      Jacob Fatu (c) vs. Alex Hammerstone
    • MLW Middleweight Championship
      Myron Reed (c) vs. Tajiri vs. Aramis vs. Arez 
    • Nicole Savoy vs. Holidead.
    • Opera Cup Quarter-Finals
    • Opera Cup Semi-Finals

    MLW Fusion Alpha Debuts September 22nd

    MLW returns tonight with a special episode of the miniseries “Fusion Alpha.” The show will focus on Cesar Duran, the former Dario Cueto from Lucha Underground. A lot of mystery surrounds the show.

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1440637962136420368
  • MLW Fightland To Air On Vice TV (10/7) After Dark Side of the Ring

    MLW Fightland To Air On Vice TV (10/7) After Dark Side of the Ring

    MLW Fightland will take place October 2nd from Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena. On October 7th, the event will air as a 1-hour special at 10 PM following a new episode of Dark Side of the Ring that will air at 9 PM.

    “’MLW Fightland’ on Vice TV blows up the tired, old wrestling format. Everyone has played it safe in presenting wrestling the same way for 25 years,” Court Bauer said to theWrap. “‘MLW Fightland’ offers viewers a transparent, unfiltered all access look into the smoke-filled arenas of wrestling. We will present big fights and big stories with investigative reports giving viewers a raw, inside look at the very real world of wrestling.”

    MLW Fightland Lineup

    MLW Fightland will feature the quarter-finals and semi-finals of the 3rd ever Opera Cup tournament. While brackets for the tournament have yet to be released, the 8 wrestlers who will take part in the single elimination tournament are Tom Lawlor, Bobby Fish, Lee Moriarty Davey Richards, TJP, Matt Cross, and Calvin Tankman.

    • MLW Heavyweight Championship
      Jacob Fatu (c) vs. Alex Hammerstone
    • MLW Middleweight Championship
      Myron Reed (c) vs. Tajiri vs. Aramis vs. Arez
    • Nicole Savoy vs. Holidead.
    • Opera Cup Quarter-Finals
    • Opera Cup Semi-Finals

    MLW will also present the first episode of the Fusion: Alpha series on September 22nd.

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1438827575195811843
  • MLW Middleweight Title Match Added to MLW Fightland

    MLW Middleweight Title Match Added to MLW Fightland

    Major League Wrestling Middleweight Champion Myron Reed is defending his title at MLW Fightland. The event will take place on October 2nd at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

    On today’s episode of Busted Open on SiriusXM, MLW CEO Court Bauer shared the news. Reed will defend the MLW Middleweight Championship against Tajiri, Arez, and Aramis in a Four-way match.

    Myron Reed’s Difficult Second MLW Middleweight Title Reign

    Reed will be making his first title defense since winning the MLW Middleweight Championship against Lio Rush. The match happened during the season finale of MLW Fusion on May 5th. The win also earned Reed the accomplishment of being the only two-time Middleweight Champion in MLW history. Unfortunately for Reed, he could not defend it due to MLW being on hiatus.

    The company returned for MLW Battle Riot III on July 10th, where Reed competed in a losing effort in the 40 men battle royal match. He spoke with SEScoops’ Samira about possible opponents he’d like to face after Battle Riot III. In the interview, Reed said, “I see they got Lee Moriarty here. I want the smoke man.”

    However, the company is taking a second hiatus until MLW Fightland. Reed will look to defend the MLW Middleweight Championship against three other competitors successfully.

    MLW FightLand Card

    The main event for MLW Fightland will be MLW Heavyweight Champion Jacob Fatu vs. MLW National Openweight Champion Alexander Hammerstone. The match was made official on September 1st when Hammerstone announced he’d challenge Fatu. The winner of the main event will take the other’s championship.

    Besides the two title matches, MLW hasn’t revealed the complete MLW Fightland Card. The Opera Cup tournament will also start at the event. The participates so far are Moriarty, Tom Lawlor, Bobby Fish, Davey Richards, TJP, Matt Cross, and Calvin Tankman. MLW has shared that they will reveal more information regarding the Opera Cup and the Fightland card soon.

  • Alex Shelley Joins MLW, Set for The Opera Cup (10/2)

    Alex Shelley Joins MLW, Set for The Opera Cup (10/2)

    Alex Shelley is the latest wrestler to sign with MLW. He’ll take part in the Opera Cup tournament on October 2nd when MLW presents Fightland from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

    “Alex is a true fighting artist,” said Court Bauer in a press release. “He’s someone I’ve been dying to bring into MLW and the timing is perfect as the Opera Cup is the definitive stage for the grappling genius that is Alex Shelley.”

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1438161820146098180

    Already confirmed for the Opera Cup will be Tom Lawlor, Bobby Fish, Lee Moriarty Davey Richards, TJP, Matt Cross, and Calvin Tankman. Also confirmed for the October 2nd MLW Fightland show will be Tajiri.

    Fightland will be MLW’s first show since Battle Riot in July. They had a scheduled event in Texas for September but it was cancelled due to rising COVID cases in the state.

    This will be the 3rd time MLW has run a tournament for the Opera Cup trophy. In 2019, Davey Boy Smith Jr. won the cup that had been in the Hart family for decades. In 2020, Tom Lawlor won the trophy.

    Shelley recently returned to the ring for the first time in 2021 at the GCW/Black Label Pro show on September 3rd. He dropped the BLP Midwest title to Tom Lawlor on the show.

  • Bobby Fish Set to Debut for Major League Wrestling

    Bobby Fish Set to Debut for Major League Wrestling

    Bobby Fish is headed to MLW. He will make his debut on October 2nd at the promotion’s Fightland event from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. Fish will be part of the Opera Cup tournament. He spoke to Sports Illustrated about his decision to sign with the company.

    “I’m ready to jump in headfirst into MLW, especially with the Opera Cup,” Fish says. “I welcome this new challenge. I’m in a situation now where I have extra room for creativity with what you see in the ring. That’s what I’m here to push. MLW has some very talented athletes, and I’m excited to see how we mix it up.”

    Already confirmed for the 8-man single-elimination tournament are Tom Lawlor, Davey Richards, TJP, Matt Cross, and Calvin Tankman. Tajiri is also booked for the show on October 2nd.

    Fish recently wrestled his first match outside of WWE since being released yesterday. He wrestled for Pennsylvania Premiere Wrestling at PPW 8. Fish defeated Desean Pratt on the show.

    Bobby Fish On His Time In NXT

    Fish also spoke to Sports Illustrated about his time in NXT with the other members of the Undisputed Era.

    “There were so many positives from time in NXT, and I was able to accomplish that with three of my best friends in the industry,” Fish says, referring to Adam Cole, Kyle O’Reilly and Roderick Strong. “It’s really humbling to think of all we did, and to experience that with them was very special. As for right now, having an extra chip on my shoulder now isn’t necessarily a bad thing for me at all.”

    https://twitter.com/courtbauer/status/1437442622084292609
  • Hammerstone Cashes In MLW Title Shot Against Jacob Fatu On Oct. 2

    Hammerstone Cashes In MLW Title Shot Against Jacob Fatu On Oct. 2

    Alexander Hammerstone has made a major announcement.

    Back in July, Hammerstone won MLW Battle Riot III. This earned him a guaranteed shot at MLW World Heavyweight Champion Jacob Fatu. We now know when Hammerstone is cashing in his title match.

    During an interview with Alicia Atout, the MLW National Openweight Champion made his big reveal.

    “The time is now because I’m announcing that I’m officially gonna cash in that title shot October 2nd in Philadelphia at Fightland.

    “It’s gonna be title for title. There’s nowhere to run anymore, nowhere to hide, no more games. I’m gonna hike that 300-pound Samoan up for the Nightmare Pendulum and swing him down. His reign of terror, Contra’s reign of terror is coming to an end and your boy Hammer is gonna stand tall at Fightland.”

    Fightland will be taking place inside the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA. MLW has announced that Tajiri of All Japan Pro Wrestling will be appearing at the event.

    Here are some other names you can expect at Fightland.

    • World Heavyweight Champion Jacob Fatu
    • National Openweight Champion Alex Hammerstone
    • The Von Erichs
    • King Muertes
    • Azteca Underground
    • Alicia Atout
    • Mads Krügger
    • “Filthy” Tom Lawlor
    • Davey Richards
    • Richard Holliday
    • World Middleweight Champion Myron Reed
    • EJ Nduka
    • Calvin Tankman
    • Gino Medina
    • Ikuro Kwon
    • Jordan Oliver
    • And MORE!
  • Tajiri To Debut at MLW Fightland On October 2nd From Philadelphia

    Tajiri To Debut at MLW Fightland On October 2nd From Philadelphia

    MLW has made a big reveal for its upcoming Fightland event.

    Fightland is scheduled to take place inside the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA on Oct. 2. The event was announced back in June.

    MLW took to its Twitter account to reveal that Tajiri will be making his way to Fightland.

    https://twitter.com/mlw/status/1432506647486861312?s=21

    MLW Fightland

    Here’s what is planned for the event according to the listing on the official 2300 Arena website.

    • Scheduled to appear:
    • World Heavyweight Champion Jacob Fatu
    • National Openweight Champion Alex Hammerstone
    • The Von Erichs
    • King Muertes
    • Azteca Underground
    • Alicia Atout
    • Mads Krügger
    • “Filthy” Tom Lawlor
    • Davey Richards
    • Richard Holliday
    • World Middleweight Champion Myron Reed
    • EJ Nduka
    • Calvin Tankman
    • Gino Medina
    • Ikuro Kwon
    • Jordan Oliver
    • And MORE!

    Of course, you can now add Tajiri to that list.

    Tajiri left WWE back in 2017. He returned to Japan to compete for All Japan Pro Wrestling. During his time with AJPW, Tajiri captured the Gaora TV Championship. He also won the AJPW TV Six-Man Tag Team Championship with Yusuke Kodama and Hokuto Omori. Tajiri is also a former two-time World Junior Heavyweight Championship in AJPW.

    Stick with SEScoops.com for more information on the Oct. 2 MLW Fightland card as more details become available.

  • MLW Announces War Chamber Match For Dallas Event

    MLW Announces War Chamber Match For Dallas Event

    Major League Wrestling is bringing back the War Chamber match when it heads to Dallas next month. On September 11th, the promotion will tape episodes of Fusion from the NYTEX Sports Centre in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area of Texas.

    Ross and Marshall Von Erich’s return to Texas will headline the show. They have challenged Tom Lawlor’s Team Filthy to the War Chamber match. The Von Erichs have been feuding with Team Filthy since Lawlor turned on the brothers nearly 2 years ago.

    “Now the stage is set for what promises to be a memorable final chapter to a bitter falling out between friends that started at the first War Chamber in Dallas in 2019,” an MLW press release reads.

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1424733980302139396

    Rules for the War Chamber Match

    The rules of the War Chamber are very similar to a War Games match. Each team will have 4 members, meaning the Von Erichs will have to choose 2 people to go into battle with them. 2 men start, a coin flip decides which team gets the advantage, and then new competitors enter the match every 2 minutes. Once all 8 competitors have entered the match, it can then be won by submission, surrender or pinfall.

    The big main event announcement comes as MLW is expected to announce a new deal with a popular streaming service soon.

  • MLW Announces Mini-Series “Fusion Alpha” For Next Month

    MLW Announces Mini-Series “Fusion Alpha” For Next Month

    MLW Battle Riot III aired this past weekend weekend on BeIN Sports and YouTube. The show kicked off Cesar Duran (Lucha Underground’s Dario Cueto) announcing that he is MLW’s new match maker.

    “My reputation for super luchas and violence is second to none!” Duran said. “I’ve introduced you to the best luchadores in the sport today and I’ve even created the most imagitive matches of the century.”

    “I’ve reached an agreement with MLW that my company, Azteca Underground, yes, will promote fights for MLW. Yes! But wait, there is more,” he continued. “I’ve made a deal with Court Bauer, you’re matchmaker in MLW!”

    Duran’s Azteca Underground promotion was later featured in a promo for MLW’s new mini-series set to debut next month “MLW Fusion Alpha.”

    “The world has changed. Wrestling is at war! Invasions! Alliances! Raids! Jumps! Beware!! Major League Wrestling is under attack. Who will rise up? An Underground Revolution begins. A deal with the devil?! Who do you trust? A league is shattered? MLW Fusion Alpha. A mini-series. August 2021.”

    The promo for MLW’s new mini-series begins around the 18:20 mark of the below video. Watch MLW’s Battle Riot III in the player below:

  • Calvin Tankman Wants Another Shot At Jacob Fatu (Exclusive)

    Calvin Tankman Wants Another Shot At Jacob Fatu (Exclusive)

    Major League Wrestling returned to live wrestling last Saturday night for their Battle Riot III from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA.

    I was on-hand at the Battle Riot as a correspondent for SEScoops where I spoke with a few MLW wrestlers and one being Calvin Tankman.

    When I asked if he was happy to be at the famous 2300 Arena for his first taping, Tankman answered that it was a dream come true.

    “Definitely. My first taping with fans and it’s in a legendary arena where you know, growing up you watch a lot of matches and moments from this very place and dream of wrestling here. So, definitely a dream come true to finally get the opportunity,” Tankman said.

    The discussion then moved onto me asking Tankman about who he hopes to wrestle with in MLW by the end of 2021. Tankman names Alex Kane, but then goes on to talk about current MLW World Heavyweight Champion, Jacob Fatu.

    “I think I got a little screwed in the title match, so I think there is something to be said with round two with me and Fatu. I mean if anything was proven, it’s that his crown was threatened,” Tankman said.

    Other topics discussed include wanting to wrestle Alex Hammerstone, Rhyno/Rhino giving him advice on which cheesesteak place to go to in Philadelphia, and more.

    You can watch MLW’s Battle III for free on July 24th with beIN SPORTS or on MLW’s YouTube channel at 10 p.m. EST.

    Watch my full interview with Calvin Tankman here:

  • Myron Reed On Lio Rush’s Retirement, Growing with MLW & More

    Myron Reed On Lio Rush’s Retirement, Growing with MLW & More

    Major League Wrestling returned to live wrestling last Saturday night for their Battle Riot III from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA.

    I was on-hand at the Battle Riot as a correspondent for SEScoops where I spoke with a few MLW wrestlers and one being Myron Reed.

    When I asked how he felt when Lio Rush posted about his retirement, Reed answered how Rush was one of the guys he and others looked up to start wrestling at a young age.

    “Lio was one of the guys when I was coming up that we looked up to because when I was younger, he’s a little bit older than me, so like he was making ways when he was really young. So, it made all of the younger guys that was like me, Jordan, like it made us like believe like okay he’s doing it, we can do it too. Like we don’t have to sit here and wait until we’re 30 or however old to start chasing goals and knocking down opportunities,” Reed said.

    The discussion then moved onto me asking Reed what it was like being a part of MLW’s growth since he’s been with the company.

    “It’s cool because not only is the company growing, but like you’re like growing with the company. Like you’re growing as an individual, so like I’m taking this as a learning experience and I’m just trying to become the best wrestler I can possibly become,” Reed said.

    Other topics discussed include his strategies for the Battle Riot, who he hopes to wrestle in MLW by the end of 2021 and more.

    Watch my full interview with Myron Reed here:

    You can watch MLW’s Battle III for free on July 24th with beIN SPORTS or on MLW’s YouTube channel at 10 p.m. EST.

  • EJ Nduka On Why He Signed With MLW, Battle Riot III & More

    EJ Nduka On Why He Signed With MLW, Battle Riot III & More

    Major League Wrestling returned to live wrestling Saturday night for their Battle Riot III from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA.

    I was on-hand at the Battle Riot as a correspondent for SEScoops and I spoke with a few MLW wrestlers. One being MLW’s newest signee, EJ “The Judge” Nduka.

    When I asked why he chose to sign with MLW after becoming a free agent, Nduka answered that he likes what MLW does and feels like he’s a great fit to the company.

    “MLW has been the most transparent and authentic. I love what they’re doing. I love what they continue to do and I just feel like I’m a great fit here,” said Nduka.

    The discussion then moved onto me asking “The Judge” what his strategy was for the Battle Riot. “To shock the world,” Nduka stated.

    Other topics discussed include the famous 2300 Arena, who he would like to wrestle with in MLW, and more.

    You can watch MLW’s Battle Riot III for free on July 24th with beIN SPORTS at 10 p.m. EST.

    Watch my full interview with EJ “The Judge” Nduka here:

  • (Spoilers) MLW Battle Riot III Results & Live Report

    (Spoilers) MLW Battle Riot III Results & Live Report

    Major League Wrestling returned Saturday night live from Philadelphia, PA with MLW Battle Riot. SEScoops correspondent Samira was in attendance at the 2300 Arena and interviewed several MLW fighters. We’ll have videos of those interviews live on the site next week.

    MLW Battle Riot III Results
    Julyl 10, 2021
    Philadelphia, PA (2300 Arena)
    Report by Samira

    MLW kicked off their Battle Riot III show with a moment of silence for the lives that were lost due to COVID-19.

    The first match to start was Anthony Catena vs. Rustin Grundy. The match was very quick with Rustin giving a powerbomb to Catena for the win.

    Next, we had a women’s match. Brittany Blake vs. Delmi Exo with Ashley Vox ringside. Exo picked up the win by giving a buster to Blake.

    Third match was Budd Heavy, who got a loud chant from the crowd, against Alex Kane. Budd received a powerbomb from Kane, which resulted in Kane winning. Budd had given Kane the finger as he was walking up the ramp, which led to Kane running back in the ring and giving Budd many suplexes. Heavy was then helped backstage by referees.

    KC Navarro, making his MLW debut, went up against Gino Medina. However, Medina hit his “Eat Defeat” on Navarro, which resulted with him winning the match.

    Next, Team Filthy came out with Tom Lawlor talking on the microphone about how Kit Osbourne and Kevin Ku were going to defeat the Von Erichs. Marshall and Ross then came out to start the Bunkhouse Brawl Match. The Von Erichs won by pinfall once Marshall did a moonsault from the top rope landing on Ku who was laying on a table.

    Cesar Duran then came out and cut a promo on how he was going to bring Lucha and the Azteca Underground to MLW. Injustice came out asking Duran for a fight when LAX came out, which resulted in a big pop from the crowd. This new LAX consists of Danny Rivera (Limelight) and Slice Boogie. Konnan and Julius Smokes came along with them as well. LAX talked on the microphone for a bit, which then led to a fight between them and Injustice, which led the fight backstage. Cesar then announced there will be a match later and then mentioned the championship match between Jacob Fatu and Matt Cross.

    Next was Lee Moriarty against Calvin Tankman. Tankman picks up the win with his “Tankman Driver.” As he walks up the ramp, he is stopped by Alicia Atout, who is with Alex Kane. Atout asks Tankman if he would join the American Hustle, which he responded with “I’ll think about it,” then walked backstage.

    Alicia comes down to the ring, but not with the American Hustle, but with Cesar Duran. They sit down behind the commentators and enjoy some champagne as they watch the next match of Richard Holliday defending his Caribbean Championship against King Muertes. Muertes becomes the new champion. According to Holliday’s Instagram story, he had to receive stitches in the back of his head after the match.

    National Openweight Champion Alex Hammerstone defended his title against Tom Lawlor. During the match, the crowd had chanted “Daisy Dukes” in reference to the very short jean shorts Lawlor was wearing. Lawlor’s “Daisy Dukes” didn’t help as Hammerstone retained the title.

    The other half of the Sea Stars, Ashley Vox, then went up against Willow Nightingale. Delmi Exo was ringside as the match went on. Nightingale won by pinfall after giving Vox a powerbomb.

    Up next was Davey Richards, making his MLW debut, against TJP. Throughout the whole match, the crowd showed very loudly their dislike for TJP as they had cheered “TJP sucks” and “TJPussy.” Richards wins his debut match after making TJP submit to an ankle lock.

    We then had LAX versus Injustice. Smokes had come to the ring with LAX, but not Konnan. Rivera picked up the victory for LAX with a roll up. LAX then proceeded to beat up Injustice along with a few referees. Danny then spray painted on one of the members of Injustice chest.

    Arez versus Aramis. Both had some nice high flying moves off the top rope that landed outside of the ring. Aramis won after using his “3 Seconds Around The World.” The two shook hands after the match.

    The last singles match of the night was Matt Cross again Jacob Fatu for the MLW World Championship. Fatu retained the title by doing a moonsault off the top rope onto Cross. Cross was then placed in a body bag and taken backstage.

    The last and final match of the evening was the Battle Riot. Among all the 40 entrants, we saw surprises from Savio Vega, Zicky Dice, Kim Chee, and the Blue Meanie. EJ Nduka came in and had eliminated a lot of wrestlers, but then was eliminated by LAX. Fans had believed LA Park had entered, but it turned out to be Tom Lawlor after he was unmasked. He then was eliminated by Marshall Von Erich. Alexander Hammerstone ended up winning the Battle Riot, who then tore up a Contra flag. Jacob Fatu came out wanting to fight, but then walked away. Hammerstone celebrated his victory in the ring.

    MLW Battle Riot will air for free on beIN Sports later this month on July 24th.

  • *Spoiler* Popular Faction Debuts At MLW Battle Riot III

    *Spoiler* Popular Faction Debuts At MLW Battle Riot III

    LAX has arrived in Major League Wrestling.

    During Saturday night’s MLW Battle Riot III event from Philadelphia, PA, Azteca Underground boss Cesar Duran (formerly Dario Cueto) came out. He was interrupted by Myron Reed and Jordan Oliver of Injustice. This brought out LAX, now comprised of Konnan, Danny Limelight and Slice Boogie.

    SEScoops correspondent Samira is live on site and sent in word that LAX got a huge reaction from the Philly crowd.

    Konnan is a founding member of LAX dating back to the early 2000’s. Limelight is a fan favorite who has appeared on AEW Dark and Elevation several times over the past few months. He has also appeared on NJPW Strong.

    SEScoops will have full results from MLW Battle Riot III later tonight.

    Here is footage of Cesar Duran introducing LAX, courtesy of John Siino:

  • Alicia Atout Names Her Pick To Win MLW Battle Riot III

    Alicia Atout Names Her Pick To Win MLW Battle Riot III

    Major League Wrestling returns this Saturday night with MLW Battle Riot III live from the famous 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA.

    I will be on-hand for Battle Riot this weekend as a correspondent for SEScoops and spoke with “Interview Queen” Alicia Atout to discuss MLW’s return, Battle Riot and much more.

    When asked who she thinks will win Battle Riot III, Atout named MLW National Openweight Champion Alex Hammerstone as her favorite.

    “As much as I don’t want to choose someone from this faction, I feel like a lot of eyes are on Hammerstone at the moment,” said Atout.

    She goes on to say that many people were wondering when he will finally go one on one against Fatu and will he hold the Openweight and Heavyweight Championship at the same time.

    Atout added, “Every single day when I’m opening Instagram, I’m seeing him like in the gym 10 times a day. He knows what he’s been working on and I think he’s gonna come in just like swinging. I think it might be Hammer, but I’m not sure.”

    Other topics discussed include the returning to live wrestling, Salina De La Renta’s departure from MLW, her favorite reality TV shows, and more.

    Watch my full interview with Alicia Atout:

    MLW’s Battle Riot III is sold out and will be taking place at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia on July 10th at 7 p.m. EST.

    Check back this weekend for MLW Battle Riot III Results!

  • MLW Launching Women’s Division This Summer

    MLW Launching Women’s Division This Summer

    Major League Wrestling (MLW) is launching a women’s division this summer.

    This announcement comes just days ahead of MLW’s big return to a sold-out 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA this Saturday night.

    According to MLW, legendary promoter Dave Prazak (founder of SHIMMER) will spearhead this new initiative.

    Prazak had this to say about the launch of MLW’s women’s division:

    “During my twenty-five years working in the sport thus far, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in a number of different capacities, for many companies which have focused on different types of professional wrestling. It is that variety of styles, and the right mix of different elements which makes me most excited to join the team at Major League Wrestling.”

    He added, “Having focused greatly on the promotion of women’s wrestling over the years, I value the chance to assist some very deserving SHIMMER athletes in receiving opportunities to grow by entering the MLW ranks.”

  • Davey Richards Reveals Why He Chose MLW Over Other ‘Bigger’ Promotions

    Davey Richards Reveals Why He Chose MLW Over Other ‘Bigger’ Promotions

    New MLW Davey Richards recently spoke to WrestlingINC’s Nick Hausman. The former ROH star discussed a number of topics during the interview, including why he chose to sign with Major League Wrestling over some of the ‘bigger’ name promotions out there.

    “I was blown away, quite frankly, when I announced I was going to return that a lot of the bigger name promotions reached out,” Davey Richards began. “I was very, very humbled by that. I’ve always looked at wrestling as more of a sport than entertainment. I think you should be so good at wrestling that it is entertaining. It’s just my philosophy and my opinion.”

    Davey Richards on MLW

    “MLW was really in line with that way of thinking in how they present their product” Davey Richards admitted. “It’s more sports-oriented. It was a really organic fit. It just clicked right off the bat, more than the other places at this time. It was really an easy decision to be quite frank. I’m really excited for July 10 and beyond.”

    Davey Richards also listed some of the MLW talent that he is interested in facing as he begins his run with the company. “I think it’s gonna be a good fit. Tom Lawlor, Hammerstone, Jacob Fatu, there’s some good stuff there. There’s gonna be some magic, so I’m excited.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oalFqu7tzd8
  • Recently Released NXT Star Ezra Judge Signs for MLW

    Recently Released NXT Star Ezra Judge Signs for MLW

    Former WWE developmental talent Ezra Judge has landed himself a spot on the MLW roster following his release in May. The announcement was made on Twitter by MLW founder Court Bauer. Ezra Judge will be going by his real name in MLW, having adopted the Judge surname in WWE.

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1408206792446906370

    The 6’8 former NFL player signed for WWE in 2019. He never made it to the main roster and was released during the cuts in May 2021.

    Ezra Judge came into wrestling fairly late in life. Having started out playing college football and was eventually drafted into the IFL. Following a short stint in football, Judge turned to bodybuilding. Picking up a few wins on the NPC circuit before turning to the IFBB Pro Tour in 2016. He placed 3rd in the Lou Ferrigno Classic that year, his highest placing in a bodybuilding competition.

    Sports have been in Ezra Judge’s life since childhood, excelling in most disciplines through school, earning double letters in both track and baseball before his football days.

    Signing for WWE was his first experience in wrestling. MLW will certainly offer him a very different working environment, but one a man of his size and build could thrive within.

    The Judge will be a surprise package for many, as his wrestling career is still in its infancy, and at 32 years old, he still has the time needed to craft a character and skillset. Ezra Judge was held in high regard within WWE, and his NXT release was a surprise. He was picked up in the 6th round of the recent MLW draft, and will no doubt be eager to get in the ring and show exactly what he can do.

  • Update On MLW’s Azteca Underground Show

    Update On MLW’s Azteca Underground Show

    Azteca Underground is a faction in MLW but is also set to have its own show. Plans are in place to begin filming episodes of what will be something of an MLW spin-off project that will resemble Lucha Underground. Plans for the show were addressed recently in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

    “They will also be taping content in Los Angeles for Azteca Underground and try and make it look like Lucha Underground,” wrote Dave Meltzer. “The plan is to start the Azteca Underground filming of matches in the fall and doing vignettes during the summer.”

    It was also noted that some filming for the show will take place today in Los Angeles.

    “They are doing some filming with Luis Fernandez-Gil (Cesar Duran, better known as Dario Cueto in Lucha Underground) on 6/18 in Los Angeles,” Meltzer continued.

    Cesar Duran has also been announced as appearing in the 2300 Arena for the upcoming MLW Battle Riot event.

    https://twitter.com/RealCesarDuran/status/1400603952983560193

    Other MLW News

    It was also noted that MLW has opted out of its agreement with DAZN. The deal had once included a plan for live specials. The promotion has also announced they will be in Dallas for an event in September. on the 11th The Von Erichs will likely be featured prominently on that show.

    Round 5 of the MLW Draft also took place last night. TJP and the tag-team of Violence Is Forever (Kevin Ku & Dominic Garrini) were confirmed as returning for the next season.

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1405861853742309376
  • Battle Riot III To Headline MLW’s 2300 Arena Show On July 10th

    Battle Riot III To Headline MLW’s 2300 Arena Show On July 10th

    Major League Wrestling will present the 3rd Battle Riot event on July 10th when it runs its first show in months from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. The signature match features 40 of MLWs top wrestlers entering at intervals of every 60 seconds. Eliminations occur by pinfall, submission, or being tossed over the top rope. The winner will earn a shot at the MLW World Championship currently held by Contra Unit’s Jacob Fatu.

    “You couldn’t ask for a bigger way to kick off the new season than a huge match with BIG stakes,” said MLW CEO Court Bauer. “Philly was set to get the Battle Riot last July before the pandemic hit, so I felt I had to make good on that promise and deliver it this July.”

    Additionally, MLW is stating that the winner of this year’s Battle Riot will be able to cash-in the opportunity at any time.

    “The winner gets a World Heavyweight Title Shot anywhere, anytime!  It could be that night; it could be in 6 months – you just don’t know. The challenger has the key to unlock an instant title shot against whoever the champion is!”

    The news was first revealed by Alicia Atout during MLW’s latest draft. Azteca Underground selected Arez. The former Dario Cueto, now known as Cesar Duran, made the pick.

    https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1403148233241735175

    Tom Lawlor won the first Battle Riot in 2018. He then defeated Low-Ki for the MLW World Championship. LA Park won the 2nd Battle Riot in 2019 but was later defeated by Jacob Fatu.

    https://twitter.com/courtbauer/status/1403328306771075079
  • Mil Muertes Signs New Multi-Year Deal With MLW

    Mil Muertes Signs New Multi-Year Deal With MLW

    Mil Muertes has signed a new contract with MLW. According to MLW boss Court Bauer, the former Lucha Underground champion re-upped with a multi-year deal that runs through at least 2023. Bauer tweeted:

    “One of the most popular wrestlers since The Restart is staying with @MLW for years to come as I have signed @Mesiasaaa to a multi-year deal. Let the body count continue!”

    https://twitter.com/courtbauer/status/1400228584409767936

    Mil Muertes quickly established himself as one of the top stars in MLW. He will have a big role in MLW’s Azteca Underground storyline, which featured a massive cliffhanger ending at MLW Fusion’s recent season finale.

    MLW has discussed a significant roster refresh during this ‘off season’ period. The MLW Open Draft is ongoing, with new signings being announced each week.

    MLW officially returns Saturday, July 10th at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA. Fans will be in attendance for the first time since the pandemic. Tickets are now on sale at MLW2300.com.