Figure Four Weekly Online

Mar 17 Observer Radio with Vampiro: AAA and CMLL, drug wars, final matches, more on his career

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:02:25 +0100

Wrestling Observer Radio with Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez returns tonight with special guest Vampiro to talk a number of subjects including AAA angles and business, Rey de Reyes, Latin Lover, his final run as an active wrestler, working his hometown of Thunder Bay Ontario in May, his early days as a megastar, working with the Guardian Angels, villains trying to take his life, crime in Mexico, drug wars, the death of Abismo Negro, TNA, negative things said about him by Chris Jericho and Eric Bischoff, and so much more. A Vampiro show is always something else and this is no exception. Check it out!

TNA schedule change for TV

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:00:13 +0100

After the Impact replay was canceled last week, Spike today has changed directions and there will be an Impact replay at 9 p.m. tomorrow night.

March 17 Five Star Radio: Vera vs. Jones, UFC on Versus 1 preview, Mike's genitals, more

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:34:10 +0100

Mike's back with a brand-spanking new Five Star Radio. Unlike last week, this show is actually pretty good. We have a very detailed look at Brandon Vera and Jon Jones, from what they bring to the table physically, mentally, and spiritually (not really). We talk about the magic of a hot prospect, comparisons between Jones and other past fighters, why Vera is a disappointment, and who wins! Plus, an also detailed look at Gonzaga and Dos Santos: why conventional picking strategies don't apply, why Gonzaga is similar to Vera, and, of course, who wins and why! And we also break down the rest of the card in detail as well. PLUS, Mike's story about his genital warts.

Mania vs. UFC 111, Michaels future, Gorgeous George, Sandy Scott histories

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:18:51 +0100

dave@wrestlingobserver.com

With the biggest weekend of the year coming, with WrestleMania and UFC 111, we look at that weekend including the future of Shawn Michaels, the match with Undertaker, as well as a look at business for both shows. We have some predictions on WrestleMania, as well as notes on last second buildup for both events, Canadian Superstar vs. Canadian Superstar in Canada, and right now what trending and interest patterns are showing for both events.

We have the most complete Monday rundown, including how every segment on both shows gained the lost viewers, and many questions asked as TNA's gets beaten by almost three full ratings points the second week one. We look at live vs. tape, as well as the future of this battle.

The issue is available on the web site today. For those wanting the print edition, there are details here on how to get it delivered to your door each week.

We also have a profile on Gorgeous George and his role in wrestling and life. We look at why he's being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, including a change in philosophy of WWE films, the famous movie that was supposed to be done on his life in the past and what happened, as well as a second movie that at one time was going to be done and fell through. We look at George's heyday and how big wrestling was on television, George's only appearance in Madison Square Garden and how it hardly went as expected, where George stood as far as the most known and highest paid athletes, his role, as well as some of his most famous angles. We also look at the story that George inspired the interviews of Muhammad Ali.

We also have an update on Jim Ross and WWE as well as an interview where he talked about wanting to broadcast MMA as well as his thoughts on mistakes in MMA television broadcasts.

We also look at several Bret Hart interviews from Canada this past week, talking bout why he returned, how wrestling has changed, his relationship with Shawn Michaels and more.

We also look at a WWE Hall of Fame snafu, an update on Dwayne Johnson and Raw, Vince McMahon causes Linda McMahon's campaign some embarrassment, filings that show what the McMahons are worth, as well as WWE responds to media criticism from the McMahon campaign.

We also look at changes made in WWE rules for talent, as well as lots of items regarding WrestleMania plans. We also have an updated look at how many people watch Raw live vs. on tape, a lot of notes on WWE developmental including newcomers, a new stable, lots of second generation wrestlers and a former college football player and a former Gladiator both starting out, as well as a main eventer in a territorial system and first cousin of two current WWE wrestlers who was just signed.

We also look at Tommy Dreamer talking about why he left WWE, as well as WWE signing Gladiator and notes from all the weekend WWE house shows.

We also have a ton of history this week, including a trip back to the 1940s looking at Henry Wittenberg, who passed away this past week, the man George Hackenschmidt called the greatest wrestler who ever lived. We look at someone who was America's best wrestler of the era, and one of the greatest ever, and why he was the most unlikely wrestling legend this country ever produced given his background. We look at his gold medal win, his pro offers, and why promoters thought he could have been one of the biggest stars ever.

We also look at the life and wrestling career of Sandy Scott, including a look at the Flying Scott Brothers and their headline feuds in the 50s and 60s all over the world, but in particular being the top babyface attractions in Western Canada and the Carolinas. We follow their career path, including their breakup in real life, Sandy Scott's role in the heyday of Jim Crockett Promotions, the different tag teams they faced all over the world, the glory era of Stampede Wrestling and more.

We also look at the man of a million names, John Hill, including the many territories he was top heel, his two world title reigns in the biggest promotion in the world at the time and his feud with Bruno Sammartino, how he got his different names including The Destroyer, Guy Mitchell and Jerry Valiant. It's a look back at several territories including the glory days of Australian wrestling, British Columbia, Detroit, Toronto and Indianapolis with the stars and programs such as the heyday of The Sheik, The Bruiser, the beginning of the career of Bobby Heenan and more.

We've also got coverage of AAA's first major show of the year, the Rey de Reyes show, which featured the beginning of the L.A. Park vs. La Parka feud, as well as Mr. Anderson and Hernandez from TNA appearing.

We also have our usual weekly features such as the results of the
biggest matches of the week and rundown of the major television shows.

The Wrestling Observer ranges from 25,000 to 40,000 words covering
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Also in this week's issue:

--Wrestler fired when he refuses to no-show agreed upon dates

--NFL player makes pro wrestling debut this past week

--Major ratings movement for a major foreign office

--Pro Wrestling NOAH starts singles tournament

--Hall of Famer makes NOAH debut on a gimmick oriented show

--Start of the New Japan Cup tournament including debut of new American star

--New Japan honors two legends

--Former WWE Tough Enough winner debuts with New Japan

--College wrestling star makes pro debut

--80s WWF star coming to Japan this week

--A look at the life and career of Corsica Joe aka Francois Miquet, The Corsicans tag team, and Jerry Jarrett's story about meeting up with him early in his career

--A pro wrestling match where the two participants are a combined 122 years old coming in a few weeks

--One of WWE's major stars of a few years ago returns later this year in foreign rings

--One of the biggest indie crowds of the year on a show honoring 50s world champion

--Where Tooth Fairy is finishing up domestically and worldwide projections

--Former WWF champion arrested on airplane

--Son of former NWA champion wins state high school wrestling championship and goes undefeated this season

--TNA ratings reaction

--Update on TNA PPV and thoughts

--Why a TNA angle looked strange on television

--Surprising former TNA wrestler who helped talk RVD into joining the promotion

--Notes on the weekend TNA house shows

--Notes on Sunday's UFC show

--GSP/Olympics update

--UFC filing several lawsuits

--Changes in weigh-in policies in two states to affect future UFC shows, including one next week

--MMA and pro wrestling heyday in South Korea looks in danger

--Several new UFC matches

--Cung Le update

--New promotion starts in April with weekly live national television

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WED. UPDATE: Bret Hart documentary, James out of Mania, McMahon winning poll, Ratings, Johnson

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:17:08 +0100

dave@wrestlingobserver.com

Spike has a ton of UFC on television tonight, including the GSP vs. B.J. Penn fight at 7 p.m., plus Unleashed at 8 p.m. (Matt Hughes vs. Joe Riggs), 9 p.m. (Randy Couture vs. Gabriel Gonzaga) as well as part two of St. Pierre vs. Hardy at 10 p.m. followed by the debut of the Countdown to Mir vs. Carwin at 10:30 p.m. The St. Pierre vs. Hardy episode one will also repeat tonight at midnight.

The issue is available on the web site today. For those wanting the print edition, there are details here on how to get it delivered to your door each week.

We also have an update on Jim Ross and WWE as well as an interview where he talked about wanting to broadcast MMA as well as his thoughts on mistakes in MMA television broadcasts.

We also look at several Bret Hart interviews from Canada this past week, talking bout why he returned, how wrestling has changed, his relationship with Shawn Michaels and more.

We also look at Tommy Dreamer talking about why he left WWE, as well as WWE signing Gladiator and notes from all the weekend WWE house shows.

--Wrestler fired when he refuses to no-show agreed upon dates

--NFL player makes pro wrestling debut this past week

--Major ratings movement for a major foreign office

--Pro Wrestling NOAH starts singles tournament

--Hall of Famer makes NOAH debut on a gimmick oriented show

--Start of the New Japan Cup tournament including debut of new American star

--New Japan honors two legends

--Former WWE Tough Enough winner debuts with New Japan

--College wrestling star makes pro debut

--80s WWF star coming to Japan this week

--A look at the life and career of Corsica Joe aka Francois Miquet, The Corsicans tag team, and Jerry Jarrett's story about meeting up with him early in his career

--A pro wrestling match where the two participants are a combined 122 years old coming in a few weeks

--One of WWE's major stars of a few years ago returns later this year in foreign rings

--One of the biggest indie crowds of the year on a show honoring 50s world champion

--Where Tooth Fairy is finishing up domestically and worldwide projections

--Former WWF champion arrested on airplane

--Son of former NWA champion wins state high school wrestling championship and goes undefeated this season

--TNA ratings reaction

--Update on TNA PPV and thoughts

--Why a TNA angle looked strange on television

--Surprising former TNA wrestler who helped talk RVD into joining the promotion

--Notes on the weekend TNA house shows

--Notes on Sunday's UFC show

--GSP/Olympics update

--UFC filing several lawsuits

--Changes in weigh-in policies in two states to affect future UFC shows, including one next week

--MMA and pro wrestling heyday in South Korea looks in danger

--Several new UFC matches

--Cung Le update

--New promotion starts in April with weekly live national television

--The Fight Network will be airing a two-hour documentary on Bret Hart's return to WWE on Monday night at 7 p.m. and replayed at 11 p.m. Among those interviewed are Bret Hart, Paul Jay (who did Wrestling with Shadows ), Carl DeMarco (former WWE Canada president as well as the former agent for Hart) and members of his family, as well as lawyer Gord Kirke who helped put together the deal. It will also air Tuesday night at 6 p.m.

--Linda McMahon has moved ahead of Rob Simmons in the latest Quinnipiac poll for the Republican nomination for senate, causing the Simmons campaign to send out tons of literature today. She leads 44% to 34%, with 9% for Peter Schiff, reversing two months ago when Simmons was head 37% to 27%. The funny thing is, Schiff smoked both of them in the debate. She's also closed the gap in a prospective race with Richard Blumenthal, although still behind 61% to 28%. Douglas Schwartz, who conducted the rolls, said McMahon's rise is completely predictable because she's the only one doing television commercials this early and she's now as well known and well liked as Simmons. Blumenthal has an 80% approval rating to 38% for Simmons and 36% for McMahon.

--Mickie James' staph infection that required two surgeries is the MRSA infection, which is a nasty form of staph. She was told she's out of WrestleMania. She wrote on the WWE web site that the infection had gotten into her blood stream and if she had waited a few more days to get it treated she could have lost her leg, and it possibly could have been fatal.

--NXT had its fourth straight week of declining numbers, doing an 0.9. For viewership itself, they are now behind what ECW was when it bottomed out. The show did beat Impact, tho.

--Cable ratings overall were low this past week as USA was No. 1, but only with a 1.9 prime time average to 1.8 for Fox News. Syfy was No. 18 at 0.8 and Spike was No. 19, also at 0.8. Raw was No. 4 and No. 5 behind two episodes of Pawn Stars and one of Spongebob. In 18-34, only the second hour of Raw cracked the top ten at No. 8. In 18-49, it was No. 3 and No. 4

--U.K. ratings for the week ending 3/7: Impact did 82,000 for the first show and 70,000 for the replay show. Raw did 51,000 for a Thursday replay. Smackdown did 86,000 for Friday. Supestars did 54,00 on Saturday and NXT did 51,000 on Thursday (thanks to Ian Hamilton)

--There will be a press conference tomorrow where the complete drug testing program will be revealed for the Mayweather-Mosley fight on 5/1, which is expected to beat both WrestleMania and UFC 111 as the biggest PPV event of the year..

--Bobby Lashley talks TNA, Brock Lesnar and Fedor as well as opening his new gym at http://www.fightline.com/fl/news/2010/0317/486202/bobby-lashley/

--Presale of the WWE Over the Limit PPV in Detroit at Joe Louis Arena (5/23 is the show date, Spin the wheel formula), will start tomorrow at 10 a.m. with the code WWEPPV

--The dark match at the end of the Smackdown tapings last night in Los Angeles at the Staples Center saw John Cena Rey Mysterio Edge HHH over C.M. Punk Chris Jericho Batista Sheamus.

--Dwayne Johnson will be appearing tonight on Jay Leno. The trailer for his next movie, Faster, will be released tomorrow. A story on the movie is at http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/news/2010-03-17-faster17_ST_N.htm

--Poll on Monday's TV

Raw was better 50.5%

Impact was better 18.7%

Didn't watch Raw 3.0%

Didn't watch Impact 17.0%

Didn't watch either show 10.8%

--On Raw

Excellent 24.1%

Good 51.2%

Average 15.7%

Fair 3.7%

Poor 5.2%

9.9% of those responding didn't see the show

--On Impact

Excellent 9.2%

Good 21.8%

Average 20.1%

Fair 16.7%

Poor 32.3%

29.3% of those responding didn't see the show

--On ROH

Excellent 48.3%

Good 32.8%

Average 12.1%

Fair 3.4%

Poor 3.4%

76.5% of those responding didn't see the sow

--We are scheduled to have Vampiro as a guest today on Wrestling Observer radio, which should be up on the site later today.

--Similar to TNA, Spike will be doing The Ultimate Fighter Aftermath on the spike.com web site at 11 p.m. every Wednesday after the show debuts on 3/31 with Stephan Bonnar as the host

--Samoa Joe hopes to escape from his captors by Saturday to headline Jersey All Pro Wrestling against Kazuchika Okada on Saturday night in Rahway, NJ at the Rec Center. The show also includes Generation Me vs. Teddy Hart Jack Evans,, plus Dan Maff, The Heavy Hitters and Sara Del Rey all defending their JAPW titles against mystery opponents.

--Wrestler Roy Bevis of Norwich, U.K., pleaded guilty for trashing a pub last May. Bevis was given a 12 month suspended sentence and 18 months community service. Bevis is the son of U.K. woman wrestler Sweet Saraya. When it was announced he wouldn't go to jail, several in the courtroom started applauding, causing them to get admonished by the recorder who said, This is not Celebrity Squares, and told them to show some respect.

--An interview with Tyler Black to build up Friday's ROH show in Dearborn, MI is at http://tinyurl.com/yadnky7 He was asked about the other champions. He said he looks up to and has great respect for A.J. Styles, that Chris Jericho is a pioneer (bet he's never heard that one before) and has had 20 great years in wrestling) and he doesn't think much of Batista. He wouldn't choose between Styles and Jericho as the best.

--There is a story on Bill Goldberg in the USA Weekend at http://whosnews.usaweekend.com/2010/03/ saying he would lose his cool at about 11 hours of work on Celebrity Apprentice, but talked about how nice everyone was on the show. On wrestling: I miss the wrestling. I miss the ability to simply put a smile on a kid's face, and granted, there's no question I miss the ability to just smash somebody and not get put in jail for it. Other than that, I don't miss anything about the politics, the stupidity and the long working hours of professional wrestling.

--Southern States Wrestling on 3/26 in Kingsport, TN at the National Guard Armory

--Amazing Red returns to MCW after an eight year absence on 4/3 at the Green Room in Dundalk, MD, facing Ruckus

--Ross Pearson is going to London today to film stuff for THQ for the next UFC video game (thanks to Ian Hamilton)

--CZW on 4/10 in Philadelphia at the Arena

--Pro Wrestling Respect on 3/14 in Burlington, NJ: Grizzly Redwood b Ernesto Osiris, Marker Dillinger Rob Wolf b Christian Merino Jred Pink, Bobby Dempsey Harlem Lance Bravado b Rhett Titus Ninjas, Shane Hagadorn Orange Cassidy b Alex Payne Mike Sydal, Celso Rivera b Milo Shizo, Rayna Von Tosh Jamila Craft b Daizee Haze MsChif-DQ, Ricky Reyes b Pelle Primeau, Delirious b Andy Ridge.

--IWF sent a message that its March Madness shows in New Jersey are postponed due to weather.

--Bill DeMott and Paul Orndorff have been added to the Promolast Atlanta Reunion Fanfest on 6/4 and 6/4 at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel. Others appearing include Howard Finkel, DDP, Kim Page, Booker T, Lex Luger, Ron Simmons, Ted DiBiase Sr., Chief Jay Strongbow Raven, Molly Holly, Ernest Miller, Glacier, Kevin Sullivan and Nick Patrick. For more info you can go to http://www.promolastevents.com

--Ryan Ford vs. former TUF finalist Tommy Speer headlines a live Canadian PPV for The Fight Club promotion on Friday night from the Shaw Conference Centre in. Former UFC fighters Victor Valimaki and Tim Hague also fight on the show.

--Traditional Championship Wrestling on 4/10 in Fort Smith, AR headlined by VH-1's reality star Matt Riviera vs. Dexter Hardaway, plus Greg Anthony Bobby Eaton vs. Road Dogg Billy Gunn

--Pro Wrestling Ohio on Friday through Sunday will be doing TV tapings and meet and greets at the Cleveland Autorama. Wrestling is free with a ticket to the Autorama. Tapings will be 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Friday, Noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Sunday.

--ISPW on 3/27 at the 3-2 Count Athletic Training Facility in Freehold, NJ with Dutch Mantel vs. Doink the Clown (Matt Borne), plus Bill DeMott, Nunzio, Tony Mamaluke, Samu and Danny Doring

--The Toledo Free Press has a story on April Hunter at http://www.toledofreepress.com/2010/03/16/mcginnis-wrestler-risks-it-all/ She talks a lot about health care around the world based on her own experiences which makes for an interesting article.

--Maximum Fighting Championships returns to Edmonton on 5/7 at the Expo Centre featuring former UFC stars Wilson Gouveia and title contender Thales Leitis

--ROH champion Tyler Black headlines 4/2 in Des Moines for 3XWrestling at the Social Club, facing Jeremy Wyatt

--Monday night CMLL in Puebla before a sellout of 5,500 fans: Lestat Crazy Black King Jaguar b Toro Bill Sr. Espiritu Maligno Centauro de Fuego, Rouge Metro Diamante b Virus Raciel Cancerbero, Averno Mephisto Ephesto b Sagrado La Mascara Blue Panther, Bam Bam b Pequeno Violencia, Mistico Atlantis Rey Bucanero b Volador Jr. Maximo Mr. Niebla

--Tuesday night in Guadalajara before 1,000 fans: Saturno b Meteoro, Metal Blanco Astaroth b Leon Blanco Acertijo, Palacio Negro Hierro b Exterminador Ebola, Rey Cometa Pegasso Extrema b Escandalo Arkangel de la Muerte, Brazo de Oro Brazo de Plata Maximo b Atlantis Ultimo Guerrero Asesino Negro

--Sunday night in Guadalajara before 1,000 fans: Bengala Sensei Molotov b Artillero Super Comando Inquisidor, Starman Leono Fabian el Gitano b Puma King Tiger Kid Bronco-DQ, Bam Bam b Nitrito to keep CMLL super minis championship, Sangre Azteca Ray Mendoza Jr. Vangelis b Rouge Metro Maximo, Volador Jr. La Sombra El Hijo del Fantasma b Averno Mephisto Ephesto (thanks to Steve Dr. Lucha Sims)

--BWO on Friday night in Elmwood Park, NJ at the Elmwood Park American Legion

--NYSWF on Saturday night in New Rochelle, NY at New Rochelle High School featuring Mascarita Dorada vs. Pierrothito, Trevor Murdoch vs. Danny Inferno, Nunzio, Crowbar, Julio Dinero and an appearance by Jimmy Snuka

--APW Gym Wars on Saturday night at the garage in Hayward

--Fire Ant Soldier Ant vs. Ares Claudio Castagnoli headline for CHIKARA on 3/20 in Easton, PA at the Palmer Center

--Dory Funk Jr. Johnny Magnum vs. Elvis Sharp Damien Steele with Jimmy Hart in Funk's corner headlines 3/27 at the Funking Conservatory in Ocala, FL

--NWA DAWG Pound on 4/24 in Ocean, NJ at the Ocean Sports Academy. Ophidian is off the show but Amasis is still on, facing Nunzio in the main event

--New England Championship Wrestling on 3/20 in Quincy, MA at the National Guard Armory has Brandon Locke vs. the winner of a Battle Royal held earlier in the show

WWE Vintage Collection TV report - Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels from WM 12

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:28:37 +0100

‘WWE Vintage Collection: Wrestlemania Road Trip’ TV Report #93 – March 17th, 2010

Shown on Sky Sports in the U.K.

By Stephen Lyon.

This week: The Road to Wrestlemania continued this week, with a one match show: Bret Hart vs Shawn Michaels in an 'Iron Man' match from Wrestlemania 12.

Quick note: This show was pre-empted from its' normal Sunday timeslot this past week, and aired earlier today. A repeat showing of this episode airs tomorrow (Thursday) on Sky Sports 3 at 5pm. The show returns to its' normal timeslot and channel this coming Sunday.

The Show:

Show opened with a short preview video for the Bret Hart vs Shawn Michaels match from Wrestlemania 12.

A recap video aired on Wrestlemania 11, focusing on the celebrities involved - Pamela Anderson, Jenny McCarthy and Salt N' Pepa - and the Lawrence Taylor vs Bam Bam Bigelow match.

This was followed by a newly-produced (perhaps for the new Shawn Michaels DVD) Michael Cole-voiced over video on the Bret vs Shawn match from Wrestlemania 12. The video featured the classic footage of both Michaels and Hart training for the match, with Michaels training with mentor Jose Lothario in the gym, and Hart wrestling with his father Stu Hart in the famed 'dungeon' in Calgary. Comments aired from both men from the WM12 ppv broadcast, taped hours before the match. Michaels was reserved and said everyone knows his story, and now was the time to write the final chapter. Hart was playing subtle heel, saying that 'one man's sunset is another man's dawn' and that he hoped he'd wake up the following morning as the WWF champion.

1) Shawn Michaels (w/Jose Lothario in his corner) defeated Bret Hart in 61:55 of the Iron Man match, to win the WWF title. Announcers for this match were Vince McMahon Jerry Lawler. This match was edited to fit this show's format, so minus the opening videos and commercial breaks, around 35 minutes of the match aired. Both ring entrances were shown, including Shawn's spectacular ring entrance, coming down from the rafters on a zip-wire. WWF President, Gorilla Monsoon was in the ring before the match, and situated at ringside. A clock was situated in the corner of the screen for most of the match, keeping score of any falls and running down the clock. Hart and Michaels mat-wrestled initially, exchanging takedowns. Michaels surprised Hart with his takedowns. After a commercial break, 14 minutes had elapsed. Bret slammed Michaels and went for the sharpshooter, but Shawn grabbed the ropes. Bret then clotheslined him to the outside. Bret followed him to ringside, but Michaels posted him. Bret staggered backwards and landed in the lap of Tony Chimel at ringside. Michaels threw a superkick, but Bret ducked and the hapless Chimel tasted sweet chin music. Back in the ring, Bret grounded Shawn with a chinlock.

An edit took place, and 22 minutes had now elapsed. Michaels threw Bret into the turnbuckles, but Michaels himself took a bump to the outside, landing on a cameraman. In classic immature Michaels style, he shoved the cameraman and cussed him out (resulting in a bleep). Vince on commentary acknowledged that Michaels 'had a temper'. Michaels jumped off the second turnbuckle and nailed Bret with a double axehandle. Michaels' strategy was to work over Bret's left shoulder, which he did to great effect, using a hammerlock slam, then throwing Bret into the turnbuckles 'shoulder-first' several times. Michaels DDT'd Bret on to his shoulder, then hyperextended Bret's shoulder and arm with a leg scissors. Bret managed to break free, and picked Shawn up to drop him throat-first across the second rope. Bret then slingshotted Shawn into the turnbuckles, with Shawn hitting the ring post with his head.

After a commercial break, 31 minutes had now elapsed. Michaels slammed Bret off the top rope, then caught him with a standing huracanrana. Michaels elbowed Bret in the face, then teased a superkick, causing Bret to bail to the outside. Not to be deterred, Michaels climbed the turnbuckles and jumped off the top rope and on to Bret outside the ring. Back inside, Michaels nailed Bret with a crossbody block off the top rope, but Bret rolled through with the move and landed on top, scoring a nearfall. Both scored nearfalls on each other, including Michaels scoring a two count after a perfectplex. Michaels used a sleeperhold on Bret, but after his arm dropped twice, Bret powered out of the move. Michaels attempted a top rope move, but Bret backdropped Shawn over the top rope and to ringside, Michaels taking a spectacular bump in the process.

43 minutes had now elapsed, and we rejoined the action with Bret giving Michaels a Russian legsweep. Bret whipped Michaels into the corner, and Michaels took another bump to ringside, this time landing on Jose Lothario and knocking him down. Lothario was down a second time moments later, when Bret posted Shawn, and Shawn landed on Lothario again. Back in the ring, Bret belly-to-belly suplexed Michaels for a nearfall, and began to work on Michaels' lower back in preparation for the sharpshooter. Michaels fought back, and in desperation, threw chops and punches. Bret attempted a suplex, but Michaels broke free and tried for a roll up, scoring a two count. Michaels was knocked out of the ring, and Bret executed a running a plancha dive through the ropes and on to Michaels outside the ring.

After another break, just three minutes of the match remained. Michaels slammed Bret, then nailed him with a double axe handle blow from the top, a snap suplex and the big elbow, all scoring a two count. Michaels used a gut-wrench suplex into a powerbomb, then pulled out an Asai moonsault for another nearfall. Shawn followed this up with a frankensteiner on Bret. The big turning point came when Shawn jumped off the top rope, and Bret caught both his legs, and with just 33 seconds remaining, locked on the sharpshooter for the first time during the match. Michaels never submitted, and as the crowd counted down the time remaining, the match ended with a no-falls-stalemate between the two. Referee Earl Hebner handed Bret the WWF title belt, and Bret made his way back down the aisle. In the ring, Gorilla Monsoon spoke to both Hebner and ring announcer Howard Finkel, and Finkel then announced that Monsoon had ruled that the match must continue, under sudden death rules - much to the annoyance and frustration of Bret, who thought he'd retained his title on a draw.

After a final commercial break, the sudden death period began. Bret used a backbreaker on Shawn and whipped him into the turnbuckles. Bret charged at Shawn, but Shawn leapfrogged him, then superkicked him. Both men were down, and as Bret rose again, this time Michaels connected again with another superkick, enabling him to pin him to win the match and WWF title. Afterwards, Michaels celebrated his 'boyhood dream come true', as an unhappy Bret stormed back to the locker room.

Closing thoughts: This match is very divisive. Some people claim this to be one of the greatest matches ever, whilst others feel it is overrated. I'm somewhere in between on this. Whilst it wasn't greatest match ever (or even the greatest in Wrestlemania history) in my opinion, presented here, in edited form and in a modern day context nearly 14 years later, this was a fantastic match that has lasted the test of time. Two all-time greats, in their athletic prime, putting on a fantastic showcase of their craft. Famously, a lot of people in the crowd left the Anaheim building where this was held, before and during the match. And there was an alarming lack of crowd heat for a lot of this match, very noticeable on tv. The idea of not having any falls at all during the 60 minutes was, perhaps in hindsight, a mistake and a contributory factor towards the lack of crowd heat. Tellingly, the second 60 minute Iron Man match that the WWF put on, Triple H vs The Rock at the Backlash 2000 ppv four years later, featured 11 falls during the hour, Triple H beating Rock 6-5.

Regardless of the faults, Hart vs Michaels at WM12 was a classic match, and this made for a great tv show today. A wrestler of the calibre of Bret Hart in his prime is missing from today's scene, and it goes without saying that it will be a sad day for the business when Shawn Michaels retires.

Match Results:

1) Shawn Michaels (w/Jose Lothario in his corner) defeated Bret Hart in 61:55 of the Iron Man match, to win the WWF title ('WWF Wrestlemania 12’ pay-per-view event – Anaheim, California: 31/03/96).

Please note: I DO NOT sell DVDs or tapes of any of these shows. Sorry!

I hope you enjoyed this week’s report. For other reports like this one, be sure to check it out my website archive at http://www.classicwrestlingreports.com .

It’s no longer updated, but this website carries all of my previous WWE Classics tv reports that have been featured on the old WrestlingObserver.com website.

As always your questions, comments and thoughts are always welcomed, and you can contact me at slyon10yearsago@hotmail.com.

Until next week, have a good week.

Stephen Lyon,
St Helens, England, U.K.

Mar 17 Figure Four Daily with DR LUCH: AAA and CMLL, Parka vs. Park, Rey de Reyes, Dos Leyendas, etc

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:14:05 +0100

Figure Four Daily with Dr. Lucha Steve Sims returns today to talk all the news south of the border including the AAA Rey de Reyes big show, which was super newsworthy, LA Park vs. La Parka, the new Rey de Reyes and heavyweight title winners, Mistico's heel turn, CMLL and AAA business, Rey Mysterio's mask, Undertaker's status in Mexico, how wrestlers compare to soccer players in popularity, Midget Blue Monkey, and so much more. A fun show as always with Steve so check it out~!

Mar 17 Bryan & Vinny Show: Monday Night Wars segment by segment, new songs, meltdown, tons more

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 02:11:31 +0100

It's the Tuesday edition of the Bryan & Vinny Show~! Meltdown time for Bryan, a meltdown that was nearly deleted except, hey, it's the Bryan and Vinny Show and if you listen you know what you're in for. So then it's a look at the Monday Night Wars, both Raw and Impact in great detail -- yes, segment by segment again due to popular demand. That plus some great new songs, assorted wackiness, and more. This show was therapy for me. Listen now.

Mar 16 Figure Four Daily with Sonjay Dutt: ROH, Cornette, TNA memories, Russo, WAR thoughts, HUSTLE

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 17:07:26 +0100

Figure Four Daily with Bryan Alvarez returns today with special guest Sonjay Dutt~! We'll talk all sorts of subjects including Ring of Honor, Jim Cornette, TNA memories, guys nearly killing themselves in gimmick matches and what management did or did not tell them, the Monday Night Wars, Vince Russo, how to improve Impact, HUSTLE memories, Razor Ramon Hard Gay, working CMLL, being backstage at the Villano vs. Blue Panther match, and so much more. A great show with Sonjay so check it out~!

Mar 16 Wrestling Observer Ratings Report: Dave and Bryan break down the numbers

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:40:21 +0100

Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez return this afternoon with our latest Monday Night War Ratings Recap. Full ratings report for both shows including the demographics, how the main events and big angles did, where there was any movement back and forth, and more. A new weekly feature, so check it out~!

Last night's ratings are in

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:55:40 +0100

Raw 3.7

Impact 0.8

Detailed look at week one of Monday Night Wars,Hall of Famer career in jeopardy,early days of Savage

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:10:53 +0100

dave@wrestlingobserver.com

The most complete look at what the numbers said on Monday night is our lead story in this coming Monday's issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. We look through the spin, look at the pluses and minuses of TNA's full-time move to Monday, promotional mistakes, things that can be done that would immediately, at least for the short-term, increase the ratings significantly, at what went wrong.

We look at why the tapings after Destination X are so important, as well as look at every segment of Raw and Impact on Monday, the gains and losses of viewers, and what that says about people switching channels.

We look at the departure of several people from TNA over the past week.

The issue is available on the web site today. For those wanting the print edition, there are details here on how to get it delivered to your door each week.

We also have a lengthy look at the life and career of Angelo Poffo, including a look at the early days of Randy Savage, and why it took Savage so long to become an international star. We look at one of the most heated promotional wars of all-time, a television battle that makes the Bischoff vs. Vince war seem absolutely tame in comparison, including threats and realities of actual violence between the sides, including the filing of a multimillion dollar lawsuit.

We look at the peak of Angelo's career, Randy Savage's beginnings in pro wrestling, the legend of the ICW/Jarrett feud, the debut in wrestling of Miss Elizabeth. We look at the promoter who started signing away their talent, yet ended up giving what Randy Savage would later say was the career advice that ended up changing his life in giving up an angle that would have been between two of the biggest stars of the 80s.

We look at Poffo setting the sit-up record, how he got started in wrestling, his role in the origination of the popularity of the manager character and his controversial WCW Hall of Fame induction.

We also look at the career of Jens Pulver and his role in establishing lighter weight fighters, his interview that was one of the most memorable in MMA history, as well as his future, along with a rundown of WEC 47, with poll results, details on the show and how much all the fighters got paid.

We also look at a new form of pro wrestling production that took place featuring some of the biggest stars of several different promotions that took place over the weekend.

We also have a look at how the Royal Rumble did, comparisons with UFC 109 held a week later, a look at what the price increase meant and comparisons to how the Rumble has done in the two previous years.

We update the lineup for WrestleMania, looking at where the top talent fits in, have more on Raw guest hosts, WWE web site stats, the return to Madison Square Garden, updates on Steve Austin, Bret Hart thrilled to meet a guest host, several WWE talents released talk about being gone, as well as injury updates. We also have more on senior executives getting major cash for stock selling, cutting of a Playboy model, the story of Chuck Austin and his lawsuit against WWE, update on WWE scouting as well as a look at the house shows over the weekend, with business notes and highlights.

--Lineup for CMLL's first major show of the year with the biggest name in Mexico putting his mask up

--Current NFL star wrestles this week in Mexico

--How WWE is affecting the mentality when it comes to business in Mexico

--Wrestler fired for associating with the wrong wrestler

--TNA makes overseas talent deal

--Updates on Dragon Gate USA business

--Annual King of Gate tournament notes

--One of the all-time greats needs another knee operation and insiders question if this Hall of Famer's career may have ended this week

--Former WWE star debuts in All Japan at Sumo Hall this week

--First cage match in All Japan history features two former MMA headliners against each other

--World champion breaks elbow, out indefinitely

--Lots of news regarding the school named after Tiger Jeet Singh

--The only other known school named after a pro wrestler

--Eric Bischoff's latest pro wrestling show idea

--Wrestling announcer recovers from stroke

--Notes on the recent ROH TV tapings

--Updated lineup for TNA Destination X

--More on TNA roster changes

--What TNA personality credits the dropping of ratings to his not being on TV as much

--Problems with the build to the first Monday show

--A.J. Styles wrestles tag team partner when he first broke in

--Funny story on U.K. reporter doing a story on TNA

--Desmond Wolfe talks his start in TNA

--Funny story from Vince Russo's book

--RVD TV series update

--RVD talks Umaga death

--Scott Steiner update

--TV star looking to get into TNA

--UFC PPV number updates

--Dana White talks weight class change for one of UFC's biggest stars

--UFC gets a network prime time deal overseas and network predicts a 10.0 rating for the debut show

--TV show canceled

--Jens Pulver talks the Miletich camp

--UFC now available in several new countries

--Lots of new UFC matches

--Update on Herschel Walker fighting

TUES. UPDATE: Great TNA action tonight, new site shows, Harts and Mania, Umaga press,GSP UFC lineup

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 13:12:23 +0100

By Bryan Alvarez

Bryan Alvarez: bryan@wrestlingobserver.com
Dave Meltzer: dave@wrestlingobserver.com

We're looking for live reports from the Saturday night Raw show in Fresno.

Tonight will be Smackdown and NXT tapings at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

We look at the departure of several people from TNA over the past week.

The issue is available on the web site today. For those wanting the print edition, there are details here on how to get it delivered to your door each week.

We look at Poffo setting the sit-up record, how he got started in wrestling, his role in the origination of the popularity of the manager character and his controversial WCW Hall of Fame induction.

We also look at a new form of pro wrestling production that took place featuring some of the biggest stars of several different promotions that took place over the weekend.

We also have our usual weekly features such as the results of the biggest matches of the week and rundown of the major television shows.

The Wrestling Observer ranges from 25,000 to 40,000 words covering pro wrestling and MMA all over the world.

Each issue has coverage and analysis of all the major news, plus every issue breaks major news stories before the Internet sites and has the most complete look at the business as a whole anywhere.

The Observer is now in its 28th year of being the leading insider pro wrestling publication in the world. The biggest and most influential names in the pro wrestling industry as well as the MMA industry, from bookers, to promoters to Hall of Fame wrestlers and fighters to the biggest current names, both on camera, and behind the scenes, along with thousands of readers in all 50 states and 30 countries subscribe. Many have subscribed as long as 20 years or more straight. They get the most detailed and inside coverage of what is going on all over the world and an accuracy from having the most inside sources that can't be found on the web. Everyone from Wall Street to the major offices to the TV networks in U.S. and Japan turn to the Observer for what is going on in the business. If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can get one free classic issue of your choice sent to you today. With a 40 issue subscription, you can get two free classic issues sent to you today. Just send your Visa or Master Card order with your name, address, phone number, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to dave@wrestlingobserver.com or you can order by faxing that information to 408-244-3402. You can also subscribe via paypal at www.paypal.com and using the dave@wrestlingobserver.com address or subscribe via check, cash or money order, as well as credit card, by mail, by sending to Wrestling Observer Newsletter, P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228.

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For the United States, it is $12 for 4 issues, $29 for 12, $55 for 24, $91 for 40 and $118 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $13.50 for 4, $33 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 or 52. In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to moonsault@mediaplusint.com. For the rest of the world, rates are $15.50 for 4, $41 for 12, $78 for 24, $126 for 40 issues and $163 for 52 .

If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.

-- TNA Epics is tonight on Spike focusing on great matches in X-Division history. So it'll easily be the best wrestling show of the entire week.

-- As noted on last night's new Observer Radio, Dave and I will be adding a Tuesday afternoon show running down the ratings every Tuesday, since that seems to be the thing generating the most interest on the site these days (Tuesday was actually bigger by a substantial margin than Monday last week, which is a fascinating stat that people are more interested in the ratings than the actual head-to-head war itself).

-- Last night's Observer show is free, by the way. You can download it by clicking on the link on the right-hand side of the main page, under "Latest Free Radio Shows". We post either an Observer Radio or Bryan and Vinny Show for free once a week on Tuesday or Wednesday morning, and also the weekly Sunday Wrestling Observer Live on Sirius, the latter of which usually goes up Monday morning (you can listen to the show live at 3:00 PM Pacific Sunday afternoons). If you're not a member and love the shows, well, the site produces 10-15 new shows per week and we archive everything for members, so the day you sign up you have access to every piece of audio we've ever produced dating back to 2005.

-- We are also very happy to announce that Wrestling Weekly with Doc Young and Les Thatcher will be joining the site starting in April, and the very popular Tough Talk with Mike Sawyer and Oliver Copp will be returning in the next few weeks as well. They join Wrestling Observer Radio, Figure Four Daily, Bryan & Vinny Show, Adam & Mike Big Audio Nightmare, Five Star Radio and the Karl Stern Show already on the site.

-- Dave has a look at MMA light heavyweights here.

-- Sad to report the death of Anthony Aurelio, who wrestled as both Prince Nero and the Black Demon throughout the US and Europe, and who once held a version of the US Heavyweight Title in the early 60s. He was also a US Navy veteran of World War II. He passed away on March 6th after having spent the last decade or so in a nursing home. He was 85. I don't have a copy but I believe his obituary is running in today's print edition of the Boston Herald newspaper. Remembrances in his name may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 311 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA 02472.

-- Although the entire Hart Dynasty is listed as being at WWE AXXESS head-to-head with the Hall of Fame, after Raw last night I would be stunned if they weren't in the audience for Stu's induction.

-- Frank Fronte of Tha O Show will be hosting a WrestleMania Weekend Party at McFadden's in Glendale on Friday, March 26th at 10 PM, so anyone who is going to DGUSA or ROH can make it their afterparty stop. Anyone attending from this website can tell the people at the door that they are there for the Mania party and they will get line by-pass and not have to pay the cover charge.

-- Ed in San Antonio is also arranging a Friday night dinner at Lone Star Steakhouse and Saloon, 10004 N. 26th Drive, Phoenix AZ, 85021-1631. Ph: 602 / 371-8181. This will be before the ROH show on Friday night, from 5-7 PM. Craig and I will both be at this one for sure. I mean, steak is there. So hope to see everyone attending!

-- Luke writes: Just thought you’d be interested to know that TNA’s website for Destination X has a picture of Daniels vs. Red vs. Kendrick in a ladder match, but has billed the match as Daniels vs. Red vs. Kendrick vs. Kazarian. Do they actually know what they’re doing on their website?

-- Brent writes: On Monday night's TOP GEAR on BBC America, the 3 hosts were driving sports cars slowly through a desolate little village in Romania. As they passed a bunch of kids, one of them wrote "JOHN CENA" & a heart in the dust on one of the cars.

-- Dark match for tonight's Smackdown taping is Edge & Rey & Hunter & Cena vs. Batista & Sheamus & Jericho & Punk.

-- Paul writes: Umaga has a 1/4 page with picture in the new GLOBE tabloid. They cover his death report and mention the drugs in his system. Hulk Hogan was mentioned in Monday's NY Post column by Phil Mushnick

-- Denis writes: During last night's Boston Bruins-New Jersey Devils NHL game at The Prudential Center last night, as Boston's Shawn Thornton and the Devils' Pierre-Luc Letourneau-Leblond were involved in a second period fight, Steve Austin's entrance music played.

-- Full official line-up for the March 27th UFC on Mania weekend:
1. GSP vs. Dan Hardy
2. Frank Mir vs. Shane Carwin
3. Ben Saunders vs. Jake Ellenberger
4. Jon Fitch vs. Thiago Avles
5. Jim Miller vs. Mark Bocek
6. Nate Diaz vs. Rory Markham
7. Ricardo Almeida vs. Matt Brown
8. Kurt Pellegrino vs. Fabricio Camoes
9. Rodney Wallace vs. Jared Hamman
10. Rousmiar Palhares vs. Thasz Drwal
11. Matt Riddle vs. Greg Soto

-- Just a quick note to those who have emailed, my Facebook was among those hacked by spammers doing the old "stuck in London and need money" routine. The account was disabled and I have no idea when I'll be able to access it again. I received an email from Facebook (presumably) saying that I should check my email account as well, since apparently many people use the same usernames and passwords for Facebook, Gmail, Hotmail, etc. Luckily I did not. So basically, if you use the same username and password for multiple accounts, including Facebook, email and this website, probably a good idea to change some of them.

-- Phil Strum has an interview with Tommy Dreamer here. He is facing Jerry Lawler at Northeast Wrestling's "WrestleFest XIV" on Saturday night at Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie at 7:30 p.m.

-- Steve Austin was trending on Twitter last night during Raw.

-- Rishi writes: Just wanted to pass along that Rogers Sportsnet will be showing the card live for those in the Ontario and East regions and on a 2 hour delay for those in the Pacific and West regions.

-- Former pro wrestler convicted on tax charges

-- Rourke quits 'Conan' remake. Doesn't say if it's the result of him breaking his arm arm-wrestling recently.

-- Congressman Bobby Rush Confirms That Investigations of WWE Are Dead

-- Ellesmere Port wrestler Buddy Ward to return to the ring at the age of 75. Remind me not to do that. The article also notes that he was married six times and has 30 kids. Remind me not to do that either.

-- Of these opponents, who would you most like to see Chuck Liddell face?
Kimbo Slice 46.1%
Tito Ortiz 19.0%
James Toney 15.2%
Randy Couture 11.1%
Rich Franklin 8.6%

Which of these people do you think is the most popular in the U.S. in 2010?
Brock Lesnar 31.1%
John Cena 27.8%
Georges St. Pierre 9.8%
Hulk Hogan 7.4%
Kimbo Slice 6.0%
Bret Hart 5.2%
Jeff Hardy 4.7%
Rey Mysterio 2.6%
Randy Orton 2.2%
Edge 2.0%
Herschel Walker 0.8%
Batista 0.4%

What do you expect to watch on Sunday?
UFC on Versus 45.7%
TNA on PPV 11.9%
Both 4.0%
Neither 27.7%
Neither, would watch UFC but don't get Versus 10.7%

-- Delirious' Pro Wrestling Respect ROH training school promotion drew 200 for their show Sunday afternoon in Burlington with Grizzly Redwood beating Ernesto Osiris, Mark Dillinger & Rob Wolf d. Christian Merino & Jared Pink, Bobby Dempsey & Harlem & Lance Bravado b Rhett Titus & Ninja & Ninja, Shane Hagadorn & Orange Cassidy d Alex Payne & Mike Sydal, Celso Rivera d. Milo Shizo, Rayna Von Tosh (hot ring girl who has been carrying out the TV Title belt of late) & Jamila Craft d Daizee Haze & MsChif via DQ, Ricky Reyes b Pelle Primeau, and Delirious b Andy Ridge. Third show will be announced soon. They are also airing the shows on gofightlive.tv for $4.95 each.

-- CZW returns to South Philly Saturday, April 10th, 2010, The CZW Arena - South Philly, 7 W. Ritner Street - Philadelphia PA. Belltime 7PM

-- Grapplers Quest, “The World’s Largest Grappling Competition” is hosting the 5th Annual East Coast Submission Wrestling, Grappling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Championships, also known as “The Beast of the East,” Saturday, March 20 at Caldwell College (9 Ryerson Avenue) in Caldwell, New Jersey

-- American Wrestling Federation Comes To The Factory Fitness Complex, 431 W. Valley Forge Road, King of Prussia, Pa. 19406, 484-681-4078. Support Autism Awareness

-- Latest Drunkcast with Ed, Cutrer and BFCraig is up here. Buddy Wayne appears to bury Vinny as well.

-- The CWF will have Caprice Coleman, Chad Parham, Seth Delay (all from NWA Anarchy), and Ron Starr on the March 27th show the CWF Arena in Rockwall.

March 16 Karl Stern Show: 1940s wrestling, intellectual gimmicks, Bullet Bob and Flame, Impact hate

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 01:21:43 +0100

The second Karl Stern Classic Wrestling Audio show this week features talk on 1940s wrestling, odd intellectual gimmicks, Rick Martel, ring's breaking, Bullet Bob & The Flame, more 2nd gen tag teams, good angles gone bad, and more TNA Impact hate.

FREE TODAY! Mar 16 Observer Radio: Dave and Bryan recap the Monday Night Wars, Bret vs. Vince, Hardy

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 01:19:09 +0100

Wrestling Observer Radio with Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez returns tonight with our weekly look at the Monday Night Wars! We'll talk all the big angles on both shows including Bret's big reveal to Vince McMahon, the Jeff Hardy situation and why it's so weird, the road to WrestleMania, TNA's build to their PPV this weekend, and so much more. Best of all it's FREE, so please post the link or file elsewhere and help spread the word about wrestlingobserver.com! And if you like what you hear, consider signing up for a subscription as Dave and I do 3-4 shows per week in addition to the other 10-12 brand new shows, plus members have full access to our thousands of hours of audio and hundreds of new and archived Wrestling Observer and Figure Four Newsletters. It's a steal, so sign up and join the fun! Only at wrestlingobserver.com.