MLW will continue to make company history in 2025 as the promotion will be Los Angeles bound in 2025.

Major League Wrestling announced today that for the first time ever the company will go Hollywood with one of its tentpole events in the Battle Riot. Battle Riot VII will go down on April 5, 2025 from the Commerce Casino & Hotel with tickets set to go on sale December 9.

Battle Riot VI took place at the pro wrestling popular Center Stage in Atlanta with Matt Riddle winning the 40-man fight, but per usual, the event had its fair share of surprises. The full announcement from MLW is below.

Los Angeles, CA – Major League Wrestling (MLW) is bringing its most anticipated event of the year, Battle RIOT VII, to Los Angeles for the first time ever! On Saturday, April 5, 2025, MLW will take over the Commerce Casino & Hotel as 40 combatants riot in the biggest match in MLW.

Tickets go on sale Monday, December 9 at 10 a.m. PT at www.MLWLA.com and Eventbrite, starting at just $10. This is an all-ages event, so all fans are welcome to experience the thrill live and in person.

The Commerce Casino & Hotel will host MLW’s Los Angeles debut. The majestic nine-story hotel is located within minutes of downtown Los Angeles, and just an elevator ride away from its iconic card room, boasting the most table and casino card games in Southern California.? The Commerce Casino & Hotel in Los Angeles features luxurious rooms and suites, popular poker games and tournaments, 24/7 table-side services, and more. 

Battle RIOT VII will showcase 40 competitors in a no-holds-barred extravaganza, as they fight for a chance to challenge the MLW World Heavyweight Champion. A unique mash-up of a battle royal and an anything-goes street fight, this super-sized main event features new participants entering the ring every 60 seconds.

Expect surprises, legends, and jaw-dropping moments as the best from MLW, CMLL, and New Japan Pro Wrestling collide to secure a title shot anytime, anywhere. Eliminations occur by pinfall, submission, or by tossing competitors over the top rope—anything can happen in the Battle RIOT!

Bring your signs and be part of the MLW experience as MLW TV trucks will be rolling up for this premium live special.

Don’t miss your chance to witness history as Major League Wrestling makes its long-awaited debut in Los Angeles with Battle RIOT VII!

TICKETS: On sale Monday, December 9 at 10 a.m. PT at www.MLWLA.com and Eventbrite.

Major League Wrestling has had a historic run in 2024 as the company had a full plate of sell-outs for their streaming events with Battle Riot VI being one of them. They also announced that PowerTown Wrestling will create a Galoob-style figure line for the company in 2025.

Major League Wrestling has established itself in the world of wrestling with a roster of talented individuals and tag teams from all walks of life. Now, MLW is stepping in the ring with the iconic Galoob brand to bring fans brand-new action figures.

According to Lan Pitts of Gamespot, MLW is now re-entering the toy market, teaming up with Power Town through the “revitalized” Galoob brand. MLW has stated that this new line will be “the biggest offering” of their roster to date and while no release date is currently confirmed, Pitts reports that the figures are expected to be released in 2025.

Major League Wrestling previously partnered with Boss Fight Studios to release action figures, but the line faced heavy criticism. Reports of in-house issues led to some figures being delayed, with the figure of Killer Kross (now WWE Superstar Karrion Kross) only hitting shelves after he’d already parted ways with MLW.

Galoob Action Figures

In the world of wrestling, Galoob is best known for its release of WCW figures in the early 1990s with top names like Ric Flair, Sting, and Arn Anderson being immortalized in plastic. As the figures were made of a solid, molded plastic, there was no mobility or articulation with the figures, though each figure came with its own championship.

Galoob also released accessories, including a ‘Slam Action Wrestling Arena’ and matching ‘Action Ring.’ Now, fans of Major League Wrestling can look forward to a burst of nostalgia, courtesy of these figures that will prove to be popular when they release next year.

MLW is making sure to look out for the safety of its talent and fans as Court Bauer has made the decision to cancel it’s Oct. 4 show due to the danger surrounding Hurricane Helene.

Major League Wrestling was set to put on MLW Slaughterhouse in St. Petersburg on October 4 at the famous Coliseum, a venue the company sold out earlier this year for their War Chamber event. The official announcement from the company is as follows.

MLW St. Petersburg Show Cancelled Due to Hurricane Helene:
All ticket holders will receive full refunds

Due to the severe impact of Hurricane Helene in St. Petersburg, we have made the decision to cancel the upcoming show at the Coliseum. The safety of our staff, talent, crew, and fans in the Tampa/St Pete area is our top priority, and we believe this is the most responsible course of action given the current conditions.

We will keep everyone updated with further details, including rescheduling information if available.

All ticket holders will receive full refunds effective immediately.

Please stay safe and take care.

The event was stacking itself up for a big card as Satoshi Kojima was going to defend his MLW World Heavyweight Championship against Ultimo Guerrero in an international title fight. CONTRA Unit were going to defend their World Tag Team Championships against The Bomaye Fight Club and Trevor Lee was going to make his MLW debut against Donovan Dijak.

This past Thursday, the promotion put on a special Pit-Fighters event that is currently available to watch on YouTube which is headlined by Matt Riddle taking on “Filthy” Tom Lawlor.

Brock Anderson remains dedicated to professional wrestling and continuing the legacy his dad Arn made within the industry. He has gained valuable experience teaming with veteran CW Anderson as the duo already found success as the AML World Tag Team Champions. They look to add more gold working for MLW.

The old school meets new school duo faces Bomaye Fight Club at Fightland on September 14. Anderson has only heard good things about MLW. 

“A couple of guys came through and managed to turn it around for themselves,” he said of the platform the promotion provides. “Parlay that into something pretty good for themselves…I think I fell into a perfect scenario. I’m tagging with someone who has been in the business for 30 years. 

“He can tell me things that my old man can’t because you can be a father or a coach. Sometimes he tips around some areas. I usually know when there is something he wants to say because of that father-son bond. CW is one who can tell me this sucked, that was good, do this, do that. That experience I’m experiencing through osmosis, I’m glad it panned out the way it did. I told him, ‘You know you’re the Ole in this. You’ve turned into Ole Anderson.’  I think he has embraced it, to be honest with you.”  

Anderson gained valuable experience in AEW. However, he reached a crossroads. 

“After I left AEW I didn’t know where my path was going to be,” he said.”…AEW was great. I have nothing but great things to say about the people who worked there. Tony [Khan] was great to a whole industry when nobody else was working. He kept people working. It was a trying time in the business and around the world. I appreciated the experience. 

“I just didn’t think I could get better there because I didn’t know if they had plans for me. There weren’t enough reps. It came down to getting reps. So, they sent something, which was a similar deal I was on.  I just said, ‘I think I’ll take my chances.’ When I go out and travel, I know I’m going to wrestle and get better. That was kind of my approach to the thing. Every time I leave the house, I know I’m going to have a match.” 

The 27-year-old decided to bet on himself. A difficult decision, but one that fuels his motivation. Anderson is excited to cross another legendary venue off the bucket list in Center Stage thanks to MLW. Anderson’s dad Arn retired when he was six months old. By 1997, those Center Stage days for WCW were largely in the rearview. Though the next generation talent has since caught up on Arn’s body of work and went to WWE shows while he was a producer. 

“I popped in these grainy VHS tapes and there is your dad 20 years younger wrestling,” he said. “It was kind of a trip. I started to watch more of those and realized he was pretty good at this. Then I saw how the boys in the back treated him. Things started to click.” 

Anderson can trace when he knew he wanted to follow in his dad’s footsteps. A milestone showdown between two Hall of Famers in Houston. 

“It was WrestleMania 25,” Anderson recalled. “WWE would always have their employees have their families. It was like a vacation treat for the year. We’re in the box. It was when the cards got to about six or seven hours. There was a lot of preshow and all that. It was a long night and I was already tired. 

“Then all of a sudden you see the smoke come, all this white light and a guy descends from teh ceiling, white robe, white hat. You can’t see his face and all of a sudden HBK’s music hits. He was wrestling Undertaker. It was HBK and Undertaker 1. They went 40 minutes. Two legends going at it. They had the crowd in the palm of their hands with what they did. There was no wasted movement. Everything clicked. I thought, ‘This is what I want to do.’”

When Anderson told Arn about his career aspirations, the response wasn’t a flat no. Just an, “Ask your mom.” Then it was a hard no at the time. The parents wanted him to go to college and have a backup plan. He graduated on December 19, 2019, and started on the pro wrestling journey in January 2020. Then came the AEW opportunity. 

“I want to be where is best for me,” Anderson answered when asked if his ultimate goal was a WWE run. “Personally, professionally, all that. I don’t have to pigeonhole it to one company. Wherever I feel is best for me.” 

And right now that place is venturing through the independent scene and seeing what happens with MLW. The question is will we see Arn walk that aisle with his son, possibly at Fightland? 

“He could show up at any time. But always keep it in the back of your head he might wonder into the building somehow or sneak down,” he said. “There is always that possibility. We always have that card up our sleeve.” 

Watch MLW Fightland at 9 p.m. ET on September 14 on YouTube. 

It’s a come full circle moment for Paul London as he returns to Major League Wrestling for the first time in 21 years at Summer of the Beasts ‘24. The live event streaming worldwide on the company’s YouTube will see the revolutionary veteran square off with emerging talent BRG. London remembers stepping foot in an MLW ring at a similar career stage as his upcoming opponent in 2003. 

“I remember that I was really excited about working with Jerry Lynn like I always am,” London reminisced. “I’m always happy to see him. He is probably the most lovable person in wrestling or one of them at least. I know [Christopher] Daniels was there as well. I think I was most excited about the caliber of talent that Court [Bauer] amassed. I was freshly 22 or 23. It was pretty cool.” 

The now-44-year-old calls the experience of returning to the promotion after so much time surreal. “The fact it has been more than 20 years,” London added. “I really am old.”

London had one hell of a run since his first appearance in MLW. He went on to Ring of Honor followed by multiple years in WWE before his release in 2008. From there, he continued entertaining crowds around the world and made a stop back on regular television in the form of Lucha Underground. London is excited about facing BRG.  

“It’s an exciting opportunity, especially for him. I got to see what he is all about. He has a lot of talent but a big mouth,” London concluded. “He has long hair. I’m sure it’s his natural hair color. I’m curious which Ryan Gosling is actually his favorite. I’m a curious guy. I also think about other famous people Mark Paul Gosselaar. Maybe he and I will have something in common after I give him a wrestling lesson.” 

After all this time London has enjoyed the journey. He remains grateful that people still responding to him after all this time.

“I don’t want people to respond for some nostalgia nonsense though,” he said. “I want them to respond because they didn’t have a choice. That’s always the challenge for me is how can I either not become stale and give the audience something else. It’s intimidating. New York City is a place I’ve always had a lot of good matches there. The one-year anniversary of Ring of Honor we had there. I had a lot of good moments and friends there… have a lot on my plate and none of it is soft food.” 

Returning to Wrestling Full-Time

Working in various places throughout the year is something London has always enjoyed. However, he doesn’t rule out signing a contract with another major company.

“I think about it every now and then,” he said. “Sure, if the money is right, but there are other things to consider. I think at this stage of where I’m at so much has to do with if I like this. Am I into this? Is this creative? Am I in a position where I feel I’m going to look stupid or this is bad? It’s very similar to acting where if you get handed a terrible script. What is the point? Then it doesn’t matter what the movie is. I have to like what I’m doing. 

“There are projects that don’t pan out. That’s fine. I’m not saying I haven’t taken jobs because of a payday either. It can be a crippling decision-maker if that’s what you base your value on. To me, to sign a contract with a wrestling company would be a matter of who is on the roster, who is in the office, what kind of responsibilities they are looking for in me, and traveling. Will I go to a place where I’ll get devoured by mosquitos? Those kinds of things.”

Giving Back

London enjoys guiding the next generation along. It’s something he aims to do in this current aspect of his career. 

“If I can help someone preserve their body or avoid mistakes I made,” he said. “If I can help someone avoid that stuff, I’m happy to do that. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the lightbulb go off. I like to help those who do want this for the right reasons.”

His Former Partner Brian Kendrick

In this world of reunions, one we shouldn’t expect any time soon is London to get back into a tag team with Brian Kendrick. The dynamic duo of high flyers turned heads with a strong run in WWE, evening winning the tag team titles. 

“No. We don’t talk,” London answered on the potential of a reunion. “He is doing his own thing and I’m doing mine. It has been mentioned in the past, but I’m just not interested at all. I’m not saying it will never happen. If some money mark wants to come in and say, I’ll give you $50,000 for this one match.” I’m interested now. That’s not going to happen. Who knows? As of now, there is no interest in my book. I wish him well though. I hope he is a happy man.” 

The State of Pro Wrestling

Given how ahead of their time the popular team was, Kendrick and London certainly would have made waves together in 2024. However, London doesn’t live in this line of thinking. 

“Anyone can be a wrestler now. The standards and integrity have been lost in the wrestling business. That really bothers me,” London said. “I like seeing what creative people do with wrestling now. The athleticism is there and better than it has ever been. It’s outstanding and spectacular, but I don’t buy in the way I used to. I don’t feel the way I used to. We’re all marks at the end of the day. There are varying degrees of mark-ism. We all want to be led along a great story. I want to believe. Wrestling is overly planned, choreographed, and overly produced. It takes a lot of the soul out of the wrestlers.

“I don’t know. Trust your talent and see what happens. There is something thrilling and exciting about not knowing what will happen. That’s as real as it gets. I do love wrestling. I really love it. Thank god for YouTube because I get to watch all these things.” 

Despite his hot takes, London still genuinely enjoys what he does for a living. He even has some favorites that happen to be under the MLW umbrella. 

“I’m a big Matt Riddle fan. I met him in Germany years ago before he went up to Stamford,” London recalled. “We got along. He is a real dude and I really like the guy. Then I watch his work and i reminds me a lot of Kevin Von Erich. It’s not because of being barefoot. He has a really organic way of how he moves. He was a fighter so he gets it. I’m excited to see his match with Matthew Justice, who I know is a wild one.

There are so many guys I think highly of. TJP is another one. He is an encyclopedia of wrestling holds and moves and combinations. There are so many that impress me.” 

There is another London that also admires and will be in action at the big show – and he happens to wear a mask. 

“Buying generic toys meant to be The Rock or someone has been fun for me,” London explained. “I recently bought this crapy little ring with luchadors in it and I think it was like $3. One of the figures is Mistico. I was like, ‘Should I bring that? Should I have him take a picture with it?’ I know it’s weird, but I’m such a fan. I love wrestling.” 

MLW Summer of the Beasts ‘24 airs live at 7:30 p.m. ET on YouTube. 

MLW is looking to continue to soar like the Falcons or the Hawks down in Atlanta after a sold out event this past weekend.

Major League Wrestling presented Battle Riot VI at the historic Center Stage down in the ATL and the place was packed to the gills for one of the promotion premier events. Now MLW has announced that another tentpole shows in Fightland will be making its way back to Atlanta on September 14. Tickets are set to go on sale this Wednesday, June 5 at 10 AM ET, and if Battle Riot is any indication, Major League Wrestling will have some surprises in store.

• Mark Henry & Teddy Long Appear At MLW Battle Riot VI

Battle Riot VI featured promoted acts such as Ernest “The Cat” Miller, Jimmy Yang and Violent J as participants in the 40-man match, but the real shining star of the show was Paul Walter Hauser. Hauser elminated several people in the match, including former World Champion Tom Lawlor before being eliminated by Sami Callihan. However, it was Matt Riddle winning the whole bout after tossing Callihan with the two being the final two entrants.

Primarily having a residence in the northeast, MLW has finally spread its wings after the pandemic and now have two consecutive sold out shows, one in Chicago and now in Atlanta. However, the company recently returned back to its roots when it returned to Tampa Bay back in March for their War Chamber event.

Currently advertised for Fightland is Riddle, Alex Kane and World Champion Satoshi Kojima who retained his title against the aforementioned Lawlor.

MLW is making waves in the Windy City following a five-year hiatus from the great wrestling city of Chicago.

Major League Wrestling announced yesterday that tickets for its upcoming AZTECA Lucha event on May 11 is sold out and it did so in historic fashion. The event has smashed the company’s all-time box office gate record. The league’s website did tell its fanbase to keep tabs in case the production set-up offers more space, but as of now there are no tickets available.

MLW CEO Court Bauer expressed his excitement for the news, noting that 2024 has been a good start for the promotion.

“Thank you, Chicago. To sell out the biggest arena we run is a huge triumph. This is a big milestone as MLW’s best year of business to date in the history of the league. From our Boss Fight Studios action figures selling out to arenas selling out, this is an unprecedented era for MLW. None of this happens without the fans’ support, the wrestlers’ work in and away from the ring, and the grind of our production team and front office. We’re all pumped to now bring it on May 11. Chicago and fans watching on TrillerTV+ are in for a very special night.”

If the name of the event didn’t give you the hint, the card for AZTECA Lucha is extremely lucha libre focused as Cesar Duran (formerly Dario Cueto of Lucha Underground) is in the middle of a power struggle with Salina de la Renta. The two promoters are waging war with lucha talent and up for grabs is a mysterious key that Duran currently holds possession of.

The headline match for the show is Mistico defending the MLW World Middleweight Championship against Barbaro Cavernario. Matt Riddle will also be taking on Joshua Bishop and Rickey Shane Page will put his National Openweight Championship on the line against Bad Dude Tito.

ECW legend Raven found himself in-between the ropes once again and it happened to be a violent battle put on by Major League Wrestling.

MLW continued to air their tapings that took place in St. Petersburg at the end of March and the card that was presented free on YouTube was War Chamber 2. The main fight featured the heel faction of The Calling taking on The Death Fighters, two groups that Raven is very familiar with.

The Calling was created over a year ago by Raven and it showcased Rickey Shane Page and AKIRA along with supporting names like Cannonball and Dr. Cornwallace (aka Doctor Dax). However, the group became fractured and Rickey ultimately backstabbed AKIRA, effectively kicking him out of the group.

However, AKIRA happened to find an ally in Jake Crist and then the rebel group really came together when Raven joined the fold, ready to take on the faction he created. That violent fight happened to air this past Saturday.

Raven Returns To The Ring

The War Chamber 2 match is very much like WarGames, complete with two rings, but instead of a top on the cage, there’s barbed wire around the top.

Raven happened to enter later in the foray and took everyone out via a kendo stick. He then joined forces with Crist to deliver his patented drop toe hold on a steel chair to Cannonball.

The Death Fighters came out victorious as AKIRA caught Rickey Shane Page in a crossface with barbed wire, forcing his former partner to submit.

Post-match, Raven got on the mic and put AKIRA over as the future of pro wrestling.

Don’t expect Raven’s physicality to be a trend, however. This was all but likely a one-off for the veteran. Aside from an appearance in MLW’s Battle Riot in 2023, this was Raven’s first match in nearly five years.

Major League Wrestling is off to a hot start after hosting six pay-per-view events to kick off the year. They are set to have their annual War Chamber PPV card on March 28 at The Coliseum in St. Petersburg, Florida. In a press release, the company revealed that it would return to the same venue for MLW Blood & Thunder later this year. 

MLW shared that Blood & Thunder will be held at The Coliseum on July 12, and tickets go on sale on April 2. The press release notes that the lowest ticket price will be $15. The official card has yet to be announced, but fans who attend will have a chance to have a special meet-and-greet at the event. 

In the press release, MLW also discussed the importance of holding events at The Coliseum and why they like it. 

“The historic Coliseum was built in 1924 and purchased by the City of St. Petersburg in 1989. It has undergone extensive renovations, and the architecture and ambiance creates a flexible space to host a variety of events, making it one of the Tampa Bay area’s most unique multi-use facilities,” wrote MLW.

For fans who can’t attend the show, MLW confirmed that the event will stream live with a $7.99 subscription to TrillerTV+. Although the event is still months away, the company is showing that they are trying to get as many fans as they can to want to be a part of their live PPV schedule. 

MLW War Chamber Preview

MLW War Chamber is another big event that the company hopes will succeed. The card will have five matches, including two championship bouts. The main event will also have CozyMAX (Satoshi Kojima & Shigeo Okumura) & The Second Gear Crew (1 Called Manders & Matthew Justice) taking on World Titan Federation (Davey Boy Smith Jr., Josh Bishop, Richard Holliday & Tom Lawlor). 

Tickets for the event are still on sale for as low as $15 on Eventbrite. MLW War Chamber will also be available to stream with a subscription to TrillerTV+. 

MLW War Chamber Match Card

(Match Card Is Subject to Change)

• Alex Kane vs. AJ Francis
• Bad Man Tito vs. TBA
• (C) Janai Kai with Jesus Rodriguez & Salina de la Renta vs. Unagi Sayaka-MLW Women’s World Featherweight Championship Match
• (C) Matt Riddle vs. Kosei Fujita-NJPW World Television Championship Match
• CozyMAX (Satoshi Kojima & Shigeo Okumura) & The Second Gear Crew (1 Called Manders & Matthew Justice) vs. World Titan Federation (Davey Boy Smith Jr., Josh Bishop, Richard Holliday & Tom Lawlor) with Saint Laurent-War Chamber Match

This recap was originally written by SEScoops’ staff writer Dominic DeAngelo on MLW.com. 

It’s a big weekend as MLW presents Once Upon A Time In New York! Who is the first person to welcome the Melrose Ballroom but Cesar Duran! He promises some intense lucha action and makes the challenge to Salina de la Renta to bring her best luchadores to Azteca Lucha on May 11 in Chicago to challenge his roster. He also promises a female luchadora to challenge Janai Kai but who comes in but Zayda Steel and Brett Ryan Gosselin. They take exception to Duran thinking he’s going to step in front of the line for a Featherweight title shot and Zayda eventually asks him why lucha libre promoters are so shady. Up pops Salina de la Renta on the screen. She disparages the intellect of BRG & Zayda (combined) and she accepts Duran’s challenge for Chicago as Rocky Romero unleashes shots on an Azteca henchmen.

BRG calls Rocky John Stamos and makes his way to the ring for the opening match.

MATCH 1
Scramble Match
Brett Ryan Gosselin vs. Love, Doug vs. Ichiban vs. Marcus Mathers vs. Dyln McCay vs. Cannonball

Before Cannonball can even make it to the entryway, AKIRA and Jake Crist jump him which causes an all-out brawl between The Calling & The Response. Cannonball is left laying but the match is underway.

Big highlights from the likes of Marcus Mathers & McCay as both use their tag team synergy to control a good deal of the bout. Love, Doug proves that love is a battlefield in this one, but does get caught with a beautiful tornado DDT by McCay. Cannonball does come to and dominates as expected. However, BRG proves himself to be the opportunist when he downs Doug and puts his feet on the ropes for the 1-2-3.

WINNER: Brett Ryan Gosselin

MATCH 2
Bad Dude Tito (presented by Salina de la Renta) vs. Azteca 66

What a major signing by Salina de la Renta and Promociones Dorado as Bad Dude Tito walks out to the ring and he’s sure to make short work of Azteca 66. A massive lariat followed up by a Scott Steiner-esque screwdriver gets him the easy 1-2-3.

WINNER: Bad Dude Tito

Next up, out comes Mister Saint Laurent to introduce WTF’s latest signing in AJ Francis. Francis goes down to the ring to rip apart New York City which prompts Alex Kane, Faye Jackson and Mr. Thomas to come out. Kane makes clear that BOMAYE is for the people and NYC is the people. Francis says that Kane let down their elders by losing the World Title to in Black History Month. That prompts Mr. Thomas to handle business and the fight begins.

MATCH 3
AJ Francis vs. Mr. Thomas (with Alex Kane & Faye Jackson)

What a straight up FIGHT this match starts out as and both men clearly have the power to topple one another. Mr. Thomas has a bit more speed but gets caught by Francis who pulls Thomas up for a massive powerbomb.

However, Thomas later catches Francis off-guard with a leaping hurricanrana! He then splashes Francis in the corner. MSL gets on the apron for a quick distraction and Francis picks Thomas up for the Cash Out! 1-2-3!

WINNER: AJ Francis

The feed is cut by CONTRA and Mads Krule Krugger and he promises a new army of new soldiers in the Sentai Death Squad. “A reckoning is coming.”

MATCH 4
Zayda Steel vs. Delmi Exo

Salina de la Renta is on commentary as Zayda and Delmi are well aware of the stakes in this match. There’s some good grappling in this match and the momentum teeters back and forth in the favor of both Featherweights.

Zayda has an impressive flurry and channels Steve Blackman by sweeping Delmi’s leg. Eventually, an Azteca henchman hops on the ring apron which stops Zayda from hitting the Killswitch. Exo shows her savvy and catches Zayda with a Delmi Driver for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: Delmi Exo

Post-fight, out comes Cesar Duran who offers his hand to Delmi and she accepts. Zayda begins to talk trash to Salina on stage and she gets a hard shot from Janai Kai! All out chaos ensues! Cesar wants Janai to put her title right now on the line, but Salina says that he doesn’t control the show.

MATCH 5
Davey Boy Smith Jr. (with MSL & Joshua Bishop) vs. Matt Riddle

Riddle is beginning the feel like Public Enemy #1 for the World Titan Federation and him and Davey Boy Smith Jr. are going to be a battle for ages. It sure is as submissions are applied and power strikes are unleashed. DBS channels moves from his Hart Dungeon legacy including a Crippler Crossface and Uncle Bret’s Sharpshooter!

However, Riddle’s resiliency and MMA background comes in great handy. DBS seems to have the win with a sitdown pin, but it’s Riddle who rolls him over for the 1-2-3!

WINNER: Matt Riddle

You know it’s a big night in Major League Wrestling when Court Bauer comes out for a big announcement and being from NYC, Court is ready to go, but the feed cuts and Mads Krugger has a target in sight: it’s Bauer. A legion of the Sentai Death Squad comes out and begins ambushing Bauer and the roster! So many fighters are laid out and sure enough, CONTRA had their clutches on Court. Thankfully, SGC and league officials come out to attend to Bauer and the victims from CONTRA.

MATCH 6
Magnus (with Cesar Duran) vs. Star Jr. (presented by Salina de la Renta)

This is a much different type of lucha fight as Magnus and Star Jr. do a great deal of brawling on the outside. Both men do utilize their high-flying including an amazing over-the-top senton flip over the ring post to the outside by Star Jr.!

Magnus fights on, but does get caught with a MASSIVE superplex. Star Jr. gets to the apron and does a springboard double stomp for the pinfall finish! A big win for Promociones Dorado and Salina’s bid for Mistico’s Middleweight gold!

WINNER: Star Jr.

Duran soon gets his retribution. Cesar is seen whistling and happens to walk up on a fallen Rocky Romero. He puts coins over his eyes and it seems like El Jefe has taken out Salina’s Numero Uno!

It’s main event time.

MAIN EVENT
Alex Kane & CozyMax vs. WTF (Tom Lawlor, Richard Holliday & Joshua Bishop)

Okumura and Holliday duke it out, but eventually reach a stand-off. Okumura tags in Alex Kane and Holliday turns in Lawlor. These two have the grapple game down. However Lawlor utilizes his kicking strength but it’s not long before Lawlor gets caught with a CRISP belly-to-belly suplex. It’s a near fall for the former World Champ.

Big double suplex by Kane and Okumura as they get another two count. Lawlor soon manages to roll Okumura over to his corner and one half of CozyMax is isolated.

Holliday and Okumura are the two to go at it for a bit and then it’s back to Lawlor and Kane. Bishop finally gets in the mix and shows his pure strength against Kane, but it was Kojima who made a blind tag to Kane’s back while in the corner. Kojima may have an injured MCL, but that doesn’t stop him from hitting a beauty of a Lariato! He covers: 1-2-3!

WINNERS: CozyMax & Alex Kane

Post-fight, the celebration is about to begin, but in comes Davey Boy Smith to tip the scales. WTF takes over the ring as they beat down their three opponents. Suddenly backstage catches word of a brawl between The Calling & The Response. It’s just all-out unruliness as it’s ultimately the World Titan Federation who stand tall!

Major League Wrestling fans will be in for a special treat this Thursday. The company will have their pay-per-view MLW Intimidation Games at the Melrose Ballroom in New York City, New York. 

One of the featured matchups announced had Matt Riddle taking on Big Bad Tito. However, MLW has raised the stakes with Riddle putting his New Japan Pro Wrestling World Television Championship on the line. 

A press release from MLW shared that ‘The King Of Bros’ will have his first title defense against Tito. MLW CEO Court Bauer also acknowledged that the new championship match was possible thanks to the business relationship between MLW and NJPW. 

“The alliance between New Japan Pro Wrestling and MLW has resulted in this blockbuster title fight,” said Bauer. He continued, “I wish to thank Mr. Naoki Sugabayashi, Mr. Hiroshi Tanahashi, and Mr. Rocky Romero for brokering this title fight and allowing MLW and New York City the honor of hosting this world championship match. This cross-promotional championship clash signifies an era of exciting collaboration and competition in the world of professional wrestling.”

Riddle won the title by defeating Hiroshi Tanahashi at NJPW The New Beginning In Sapporo on February 23. The short-notice defense gives Tito an excellent opportunity to compete for his first NJPW championship in his MLW debut. However, the match style has also changed. 

Preview Of Matt Riddle vs. Big Bad Tito At MLW Intimidation Games

Longtime NJPW fans may recall that NJPW World TV Championship matches have a time limit of 15 minutes. This rule adds a new dynamic to Riddle’s match against Tito. 

MLW commented on the new match format and its uniqueness to the MLW Intimidation Games card. 

 “Adding a layer of intrigue to this highly anticipated bout is the unique stipulation attached to the NJPW World Television Championship,” said MLW. They continue, “With a time limit of 15 minutes imposed on all NJPW World Television title matches, both Riddle and Big Bad Tito will be under immense pressure to seize victory within the allotted time frame.”

Tickets for MLW Intimidation Games are still on sale for as low as 19.81 on Eventbrite. However, the new match stipulation could help lead to a sold-out show soon. 

In 2024, Major League Wrestling (MLW) is undergoing changes to its programming. The promotion aims to broaden its schedule by presenting one premium live event and one free signature event each month.

The monthly premium live events will be broadcast as part of Trille TV+. For viewers interested in MLW’s free signature events, they can catch them on TV through BeIN Sports and online via MLW’s YouTube channel.

MLW expands 2024 schedule: https://t.co/xsBiWdJ3sH

— MLW (@MLW) January 18, 2024

Recently, MLW made an announcement about returning to its origins in Florida, where the promotion first began over two decades ago. In the upcoming spring, MLW is set to make a comeback with War Chamber, one of its key PLEs, at the Coliseum in St. Petersburg, FL.

In addition to its return to Florida, the company is also marking a comeback to Chicago with its Aztecha Lucha event on Saturday, May 11. This marks MLW’s return to the city for the first time since 2019.

SEScoops had reported back in December 2023 that MLW was gearing up for substantial changes, and this included a comprehensive overhaul of its front office.

On the flip side, MLW was engaged in a legal dispute with WWE in the form of an antitrust lawsuit. The two companies recently settled the lawsuit last month, with the details of the settlement remaining undisclosed.

With the upcoming programming schedule changes, 2024 appears to be an exciting year for MLW. The promotion has added notable names back to its roster such as Matt Riddle, Richard Holliday, Salina de la Renta, Tom Lawlor, and Satoshi Kojima. However, the company experienced a setback as Alex Hammerstone became a free agent. 

MLW Reload

MLW’s inaugural event under the new schedule is Reload, scheduled to air on Saturday, January 20, on both YouTube and BeIN Sports.

MLW fans in Chicago would be very happy to know that the promotion recently announced a new event for 2024.

Major League Wrestling announced that they are making a massive return to Chicago in 2024 with their AZTECA LUCHA event on Saturday, May 11. Tickets go on sale on Friday, December 15 at 10 a.m. It will be available online at http://www.luchatickets.com and Eventbrite.com. It has also come to light that the event will stream live on FITE+.

The announcement also noted that as a thank you to Chicago fans, this event will be a special fan appreciation event with tickets starting at $10. Tickets will also be available day of show at the box office unless the event gets sold out in advance.

Matches and fighters will be announced MLW’s official website.  A Special Meet & Greet has been also scheduled for the event.. 

Schedule for the MLW event in Chicago 

5:30 p.m.: Early entry for front row ticket holders
6:00 p.m.: Doors open for general public (all ticket holders)
7:00 p.m : Showtime

MEET AND GREETS
There will be several meet and greet opportunities featuring Major League Wrestling wrestlers and personalities.

REFUNDS
Refunds or exchanges are on a case by case basis.

PARKING
There are parking lots across the street as well as street parking readily available.

🚨MLW returns to Chicago May 11, tickets on sale Friday

Major League Wrestling is returning to #Chicago for the first time since 2019 on Saturday, May 11 for AZTECA LUCHA, live on @FITETV+ from Cicero Stadium.

Tickets go on sale this Friday, December 15 at 10am at… pic.twitter.com/dQH2Vw8kw4

— MLW (@MLW) December 12, 2023

Last year in January, MLW initiated a lawsuit against WWE, and alleged anticompetitive practices and interference in MLW’s business operations. 

It came to light that the lawsuit claimed that WWE, under Vince McMahon’s leadership, used its influence to refrain MLW from securing a television deal with a major network.

This hindered their growth and violated antitrust laws. Recently, it has been revealed that MLW and WWE have reached a settlement. This marks the end of their legal dispute. You can read about the matter in details below:

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.

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.

In January 2022, MLW filed a lawsuit against WWE for violating the Sherman Antitrust Act. The promotion claims that WWE stopped VICE from working them in 2021. They also allege that Tubi ended their deal with MLW after a call from a WWE executive. Today a judge dismissed MLW’s complaint against WWE, but is allowing them to amend their complaint.

“WWE has been wrongfully depriving its competitors of critical opportunities for many years, but its latest conduct has been even more unconscionable,” said MLW CEO Court Bauer. “I think we speak for the rest of the professional wrestling world when we say that this anti-competitive behavior has to stop.”

Judge Will Allow MLW to Amend Complaint

MLW Underground debuted on REELZ last Tuesday night. They also have a deal with Pro Wrestling TV.

Brandon Thurston of Wrestlenomics tweeted that “the judge in MLW v. WWE antitrust lawsuit dismissed MLW’s initial complaint today, allowing MLW 21 days to submit an amended complaint. WWE has been seeking to avoid the case going to discovery.”

He also tweeted “The Court finds that MLW has not included sufficient facts to plausibly allege a relevant antitrust product market.” The judge wants to hear an argument for why other kinds of content aren’t acceptable substitutes for wrestling content, citing ongoing UFC lawsuit, Le v. Zuffa.”

Thurston further pointed out that “the judge notes MLW’s claims that WWE has monopoly power and has caused MLW antitrust injury, are unlikely to survive unless improved in the amended complaint.”

• ‘Iron Claw’ Von Erich Biopic Wraps Up Filming

The judge’s order can be read in full here.

Court Bauer, MLW’s founder, has provided a statement to Fightful:

“Our legal team is already at work on amending the complaint. We have every intention to continue pursuing our case against WWE.”

WWE hopes to secure a protective order for its anti-trust lawsuit with Major League Wrestling.

On Jan. 11, 2022, MLW filed a lawsuit against the WWE. The lawsuit alleges that WWE tried to halt MLW from finalizing media deals with Tubi and Vice TV. MLW also claims that WWE tried to poach talent away from the company.

When the anti-lawsuit was filed, MLW CEO Court Baurer said, “WWE has been wrongfully depriving its competitors of critical opportunities for many years, but its latest conduct has been even more unconscionable.” He continued, “I think we speak for the rest of the professional wrestling world when we say that this anti-competitive behavior has to stop.”

WWE has attempted to dismiss the lawsuit but hasn’t succeeded. On Dec. 14, 2022, it was reported that the case is expected to move forward. The week prior, our’s Andrew Ravens reported that “MLW laid out the materials they were seeking in discovery.”

PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reports that WWE has requested a protective order to prevent the company from providing discovery material.

“World Wrestling Entertainment filed a motion with the United States District Court, Northern District of California, San Jose Division on January 5th, seeking a protective order from the court that would suspend WWE’s obligation to search for and produce materials requested by MLW in regard to the lawsuit Major League Wrestling brought against them last year,” said the report.

WWE Reason for Requesting a Protective Order

WWE believes the company should wait to provide material for discovery as it’s still being determined if the court will have jurisdiction over the case. Johnson also reports that “…WWE’s stance is that if the Court decides they are not dismissing MLW’s antitrust allegations against the company, the remaining allegations would likely land in State Court, which could require WWE to begin the discovery process anew, at an additional cost to the company.”

The report also shared that MLW wants documents from WWE regarding”…all lawsuits, claims, or complaints, threatened or actual,” made by WWE’s employees (not just professional wrestlers) in connection with WWE employment or contractor agreements.”

It’s unclear if WWE’s request to get a protective order will be granted. WWE could also try to settle the matter out of court, especially with hopes of potentially selling the company.

Davey Boy Smith, Jr. is returning to MLW for FIGHTLAND ’22. They made the announcement via Twitter after hyping a big announcement earlier in the day.

Smith has been a champion since leaving MLW

Smith left the promotion in December 2020 after losing to Low Ki in the first round of the Opera Cup.

After leaving MLW, WWE announced that Smith was signed in July 2021. He was later released that November without appearing on TV.

This past March, he debuted in NWA as Doug Williams’s partner in the Crockett Cup. In June, they would win the NWA Tag Team Championships from La Rebellion.

• MLW Inks Partnership With Hot Topic

FIGHTLAND ’22 is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 23 at a Fusion taping at the famed 2300 Arena.

Major League Wrestling has filed a lawsuit against the WWE.

MLW claims that the WWE is continuingly interfering with their business prospects and contracts. Courthouse news was able to obtain the full lawsuit statement. The lawsuit alleges that the WWE attempted to prevent Vice TV from working with MLW in early 2021.

It also claims that a former WWE executive called Vice TV to tell them that WWE Chairman Vince McMahon was “pissed” that Vice TV started airing MLW programs and wanted them to stop working with MLW. The Wrap’s Tim Baysinger and Tony Maglio report that the former WWE Executive is Susan Levinson.

The report also says that MLW claims WWE prevented MLW from getting a deal with the streaming service Tubi. According to the MLW, the failure to secure a deal with Tubi resulted in “substantial losses” like not reaching a broader fan base and event cancellations. It also states that the failed deal caused a MLW 40% drop in tickets sales. MLW CEO Court Bauer spoke out against the WWE in a press release. Baysinger and Maglio transcribed Bauer statement.

“WWE has been wrongfully depriving its competitors of critical opportunities for many years, but its latest conduct has been even more unconscionable,” said MLW CEO Court Bauer. “I think we speak for the rest of the professional wrestling world when we say that this anti-competitive behavior has to stop.”

MLW Deal with Vice TV

MLW signed its deal with Vice TV on April 19, 2021. Based on the lawsuit, it’s unclear if MLW alleges that WWE requested Vice TV to stop working with them before the deal. However, the lawsuit says that a Vice TV Executive responded that “WWE’s conduct was illegal and an antitrust violation.” The lawsuit also states that Levinson couldn’t control McMahon from interfering with MLW and Vice TV’s relationship.

What’s Next for WWE and MLW

The WWE has responded to the MLW lawsuit. Baysinger and Maglio received a statement from WWE Spokesperson that believes MLW claims have no merit. The spokesperson also shared WWE will defend itself against MLW. MLW seeks compensation for losses they suffered due to WWE interference and wants to prevent future interferences. It’s unclear when MLW and WWE will go to court or if they will settle.

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.

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.

Major League Wrestling (MLW) could be gearing up to get back to running live events again.

It’s no secret that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has delivered a huge blow to the professional wrestling industry, along with the rest of the world. Several promotions have been forced to hold off on hosting events, MLW included. The company hasn’t put on a show since March, when the pandemic began to get out of control.

However, that could all change very soon. MLW’s official Twitter account Tweeted out a photo of their production set, captioning it with a ticking clock. This has led many to believe that MLW is teasing the return of live shows soon.

Promotions such as WWE and AEW have been running empty arena shows for the past several months. They have also used their own talents to serve as audience members, placing them in the crowd where fans would usually be in an attempt to liven the shows up a bit.

• MLW Partners With WAVE.tv For Social Media Content Distribution

Now would be a great time for MLW to get back to work. Especially with the recent news of the promotion partnering up with WAVE.tv for social media content distribution. The partnership will allow for more of MLW’s content to be seen by the likes of Gen Z and Millennial sports fans through WAVE.tv’s combat sports media brand “HAYMAKERS.”

Major League Wrestling has signed AJ Kirsch to join Rich Bocchini and Tony Shiavone in its broadcast team, the company announced.

The news was initially broken by SI.com, which Kirsch confirmed on his Twitter:

Kirsch first began his career as a professional wrestler in 2005 and competed on the west coast wrestling circuit. He was cast as a contestant on WWE’s Tough Enough season five.

In October 2011, he participated in the TNA Gut Check contest in Sacramento, California.

Kirsch was also the winner of The Rock’s “Rock the Promo”, a ten-episode promo competition series on The Rock’s YouTube channel. He recently voiced Buzz, the lead protagonist in the MyCAREER mode of WWE2K19.

The company has revealed that AJ will be broadcasting for the first time in Tijuana this Saturday for the MLW x The Crash Lucha Libre event.

MLW CEO Court Bauer said that he wanted to “add some youthful exuberance on the headset”, and that’s why Kirsch was picked.

The company will be holding their first-ever PPV on November 2, dubbed MLW Saturday Night SuperFight. It will will take place at the Cicero Stadium in Cicero, Illinois. Jacob Fatu (c) vs. LA Park for the MLW World Heavyweight Championship has been confirmed so far.

Jim Cornette will continue as a color commentator for MLW, according to the company’s website.

Cornette made a surprise appearance at the MLW: Intimidation Games event earlier this month, and served as an analyst for that event.

He will continue to serve in that capacity at the MLW events in New York on April 4th and 5th, as well as at the company’s first Milwaukee show on June 1st, and when they revisit Chicago on July 6th.

Cornette appeared as a guest on this week’s Jim Ross Report to discuss the continuation of his new MLW gig.

“I’m a failure. I can’t do retirement,” Cornette said. “Suddenly, I’ve been thrown into the jaws of the lion again with MLW as rotating color man.”

Cornette also clarified that his position is still a part-time role.

“Not full-time, as has been reported,” said Cornette. “They are running some events that are outside my travel range.”

Cornette also addressed how his association with MLW came to be. When the company switched it’s Fusion tapings from Thursdays to Saturdays, Tony Schiavone was no longer available. And so, MLW CEO Court Bauer called Cornette.

In a statement on the MLW website, Bauer says that he is happy that Cornette is sticking around.

“Jim is very talented and we’re very happy he’ll be staying on with us,” said Bauer.

Last night on the Major League Wrestling tapings, Jim Cornette made his début in the promotion by joining the broadcast team alongside Rich Bocchini as a color commentator in Chicago, Illinois.

MLW CEO Court Bauer commented on Jim Cornette joining MLW. “The breadth and depth of our commentator pool sets the bar. Each commentator or analyst excels at bringing a passion for the sport which is a key driving force behind MLW’s programming.”

Jim Cornette joins Rich Bocchini, Tony Schiavone and Matt Striker as part of MLW’s English commentary team. MLW will make announcements regarding their broadcast assignments on a case-by-case basis.

PWInsider reports that Cornette will also be working behind the scenes as a producer. He is reportedly scheduled to be part of MLW’s back-to-back shows next month in NYC during WrestleMania 35 weekend.

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1102011749836996608

Cornette has worked with the wrestling industry since he was 14 when he served as a photographer, ring announcer, timekeeper, and a magazine correspondent in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky.

He made his début as a manager in 1982 with Jerry Jarrett and Jerry Lawler‘s Continental Wrestling Association (CWA). He would go on to work with the WWE in many roles starting from 1993 to 2005. Cornette then worked for TNA/Impact Wrestling from 2006 through 2009. His last appearance in the WWE was at the Hall of Fame where he inducted The Rock ‘n’ Roll Express into the Class of 2017.

On Saturday night in the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, “Filthy” Tom Lawlor defeated Low Ki in the main event to become the new World Heavyweight Champion on Major League Wrestling’s SuperFight show.

This marked the end of not only the six-month old reign, but Low Ki’s 15-year MLW undefeated streak.

The early portions of the match saw the competitors go back and forth against each other, however, things took a turn when Low Ki brought a wooden door into the match from underneath the ring. Low Ki tried to put Lawlor through the door but it backfired as Lawlor sent Low Ki through the door instead.

• Also Read: MLW SuperFight: Hart Foundation Score Tag Team Gold

Towards the end of the match, Low Ki used the dragon sleeper to make Lawlor tap out but Lawlor was too aware to fall for it and reversed it into a rear naked choke to make Low Ki submit.

You can check out Lawlor’s reaction after the match:

https://twitter.com/mlw/status/1091880848339668992?s=12

At Major League Wrestling’s Superfight event from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania last Saturday night, The Hart Foundation (Teddy Hart and Davey Boy Smith Jr.) were able to secure victory over the Lucha Brothers (Pentagon Jr. & Fenix) to win the MLW World Tag Team Championship.

The Foundation is riding high as this is their second reign of the tag team championship and Teddy already holds the MLW World Middleweight Championship.

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1091871757370298368

After the match was over, the Lucha Brothers stormed out of the building in frustration over their loss. MLW said that they have no comment on the Lucha Brothers actions.

“MLW has no comment at this time about @PENTAELZEROM and @ReyFenixMx storming out of @2300Arena following their World Tag Team Championship loss to the #HartFoundation

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1091904690466549760

If you are unaware, the Lucha Brothers agreed to sign with AEW at the Come Hell or High Water PPV on Friday night via a handshake deal with the Young Bucks.