Category: Independent Promotions

WWE Hall Of Famer Jimmy Valiant Set for Final Match at 83, Closing the Curtain on a 60+ Year Career

It’s often said in wrestling that retirement rarely sticks—and for many legends, the pull of the ring never fully fades. That sentiment rings especially true for WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Valiant, who is preparing to lace up his boots one last time at the age of 83.

The iconic “Boogie Woogie Man” has announced that his upcoming match on April 25 will officially be his final appearance inside the squared circle. The bout is scheduled to take place at a NAWA Championship Wrestling event in Lancaster, South Carolina, marking what’s being billed as a historic night for the promotion.

While Valiant has been officially retired, he hasn’t been completely absent from in-ring action in recent years. Since 2022, he’s made sporadic appearances, with his most recent outing coming in a six-man tag team match for NAWA. As of now, his opponent for this farewell performance hasn’t been revealed.

In a statement addressing the milestone, Valiant made it clear that this time, he means it when he says goodbye. After decades of stepping away and returning, he emphasized that this match will truly be his “final dance.” Reflecting on his incredible journey, Valiant noted he has competed in over 15,000 matches across a staggering 62-year career, traveling millions of miles to entertain fans around the world.

What makes this moment even more special is the timeline it represents. Valiant pointed out that this match will allow him to say he performed across seven different decades, dating back to his debut in 1964. He also shared his desire to make one last walk to the ring to his classic entrance theme, “Boy From New York City,” soaking in the atmosphere one final time.

NAWA promoter Michael Elliott didn’t downplay the significance of the occasion, calling it an honor for the company to host such a legendary sendoff. For a regional promotion, being part of a moment tied to wrestling history is no small feat.

Valiant’s career résumé speaks for itself. Over the years, he captured numerous championships, including the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship and multiple regional titles across the NWA and AWA territories. Known for his charisma and connection with audiences, he was a standout figure during the territorial era, including memorable rivalries like his feud with Jerry Lawler in Memphis.

Beyond his own accomplishments, Valiant has also left his mark on future generations. He played a role in training current stars, including former AEW World Champion “Hangman” Adam Page, extending his influence far beyond his own time in the spotlight.

Now, fans will have one final chance to witness the “Boogie Woogie Man” in action. Tickets for the event are currently on sale, as Valiant prepares to close the book on one of the longest and most unique careers in professional wrestling history.

Shotzi Shares Update After Brother Reported Missing, Says He Has Been Found Safe

Former WWE star Shotzi Blackheart recently experienced a frightening situation involving her family, but thankfully the story now has a positive update.

On Tuesday, March 10, Shotzi took to social media to alert fans that her brother, Dean Urbanski, had gone missing. In the now-deleted post, she explained that Urbanski had been involved in a car crash near Fort Mason in California. According to CCTV footage referenced in the post, he was seen leaving the crash site on foot shortly afterward and was believed to be disoriented.

The situation quickly spread across social media as fans and members of the wrestling community helped share the message in hopes of locating him.

Not long after the initial post, Shotzi returned with good news. She revealed that her brother had been located and taken to a hospital for care. In her update, she thanked everyone who helped circulate the information during the search.

Writing

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who shared the post, reached out, and helped spread the word. The support and kindness from so many people truly means the world to our family. Thank you all so much.

Shotzi has previously spoken about the important role her brother played in her path to professional wrestling. While she wasn’t initially a big wrestling fan herself, Urbanski was deeply into it. She has recalled spending time watching wrestling with him and playing wrestling video games together growing up.

Years later, Shotzi began watching WWE again with her sister. What started as a joke about potentially getting involved in wrestling eventually turned into something much more serious for Shotzi, who ultimately pursued a career inside the ring and made a name for herself on the independent scene before signing with WWE.

Family has always been a significant part of Shotzi’s story. In 2021, she shared a heartfelt tribute following the passing of her father. In that emotional message, she spoke about how fortunate she felt to have strong relationships with both her biological father and her stepfather. She described her dad as someone who brought energy and joy to every gathering and was often the one organizing family holidays and trips.

Shotzi also reflected on the many lessons he taught her throughout her life and the memories she will always cherish.

While the past few days have undoubtedly been stressful for Shotzi and her family, the positive outcome regarding her brother has brought relief — and plenty of gratitude toward those who helped spread the word. 🙏

Mercedes Moné’s Championship Empire Under Threat Amid Recent Losing Streak, Has 3 Upcoming Title Defenses 

After a historic run of collecting championships across the world, AEW’s Mercedes Moné has hit a skid after failing to defeat Kris Statlander for the AEW Women’s World Championship at Full Gear. Since then, Moné has lost the Ring of Honor Women’s Television Championship to Red Velvet, the RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship to Alex Windsor, the AEW TBS Championship to Willow Nightingale, the CMLL World Women’s Championship to Persephone, and the Bestya Women’s Championship to Swan.

Unfortunately, the hits may keep on coming for Moné over the next 10 days. On X Wednesday morning, Revolution Pro Wrestling announced that Moné would be taking on UK star Alexxis Falcon at RevPro High Stakes on March 21. But this will not be any ordinary singles match, as Moné will be putting both the BODYSLAM Scandinavian and Discovery Scotland Women’s Championships on the line. The match comes a week after Moné is scheduled to be in Paris, where she’ll wrestle Ophelie in a match for Moné’s EWA Women’s Championship and Ophelie’s Rixe Women’s Championship.

As a result of these two shows, all part of Moné’s March tour outside of AEW, the CEO could be leaving Europe with either one more belt added to her arsenal, or continued diminishing returns, as losses to Ophelie and Falcon could leave her with just three championships remaining. The hits could keep on coming after as well, as Mone is scheduled to wrestle for Prime Time Wrestling in Poland on March 28, where she’s expected to defend the PTW Women’s Championship, and Winnipeg Pro Wrestling on March 31, where she’ll defend the WPW Women’s Championship. Losses in those matches, and in Europe, would see Mone end March having lost all but one of her titles.

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Multi-Promotional Slam Fest Announced For WrestleMania Week In Vegas (5/15-5/18)

WrestleMania Week in Las Vegas just got even more stacked.

Former WWE Superstar Dean Muhtadi (Mojo Rawley), in partnership with Paragon Talent Group, has officially unveiled Slam Fest Las Vegas — a multi-promotional wrestling showcase set to take over the Palms Casino Resort this April.

The wrestling series will run April 15–18 at the Pearl Concert Theater and feature five live events across multiple international promotions. Confirmed participants include CMLL, Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling (TJPW), STARDOM, House of Glory (HOG), and Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling (MLP).

And yes — there’s history involved.

CMLL’s event during Slam Fest will mark the first standalone show held outside of Mexico in the legendary promotion’s 92-year history, a significant milestone for one of wrestling’s oldest and most respected organizations.

Full Slam Fest Wrestling Schedule

Thursday, April 16 – Pearl Concert Theater

  • TJPW: 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. PT
  • CMLL: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. PT
  • House of Glory: 8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. PT

Friday, April 17 – Pearl Concert Theater

  • TJPW Fan Fest Meet & Greet: 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. PT
  • STARDOM: 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. PT
  • Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling: 9:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. PT

The lineup gives fans a rare opportunity to experience major Japanese, Mexican, Canadian, and U.S.-based promotions all under one roof during wrestling’s biggest week of the year.

Major Live Experiences Announced

Slam Fest isn’t stopping at in-ring action.

Several marquee events will also take place at the Ghostbar inside the Palms:

  • Wednesday, April 15: Mick Foley presents “40 Years of Mick Foley,” a comedy and storytelling show featuring behind-the-scenes tales from his legendary career.
  • Friday, April 17: Saraya hosts a live episode of Rulebreakers with Saraya, promising unfiltered conversation and special guests.
  • Saturday, April 18: Matt and Jeff Hardy bring the Hardy Party to Vegas. Matt will share stories from his three-decade career during The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy experience, followed by a fan Q&A — and Jeff Hardy will perform live in concert afterward.

Poolside Finale With Major Names

The weekend will wrap up with a high-profile poolside celebration at the Palms on Saturday, April 18. Confirmed appearances include:

  • Matt & Jeff Hardy
  • Mick Foley
  • Saraya
  • The Hurt Syndicate (Bobby Lashley, MVP, Shelton Benjamin)
  • Elayna Black
  • Ash by Elegance
  • Mojo Muhtadi
  • And additional celebrity guests

WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair is also scheduled to make a special appearance.

Between the international wrestling showcase, live podcasts, comedy shows, concerts, and celebrity meet-and-greets, Slam Fest Las Vegas is positioning itself as one of the most ambitious WrestleMania Week experiences in recent memory.

Tickets officially go on sale Friday, February 27 at 10 a.m., and with this kind of lineup, they may not last long.

Nixon Newell Reveals 2026 Likely Her Final Year as an In-Ring Competitor

Another familiar name from the modern wrestling era is preparing to step away from active competition. Former WWE star Nixon Newell, best known to many fans as Tegan Nox, has confirmed that she’s likely entering the final year of her in-ring wrestling career.

Speaking recently on Casual Conversations with The Classic, Newell explained that this timeline has been on her mind since her WWE release in 2024. At the time, she gave herself a rough two-year window, and with one year already gone, she now sees the end of her full-time wrestling run coming into focus.

According to Newell, the decision isn’t rooted in burnout or frustration with wrestling itself. Instead, her passion has simply shifted. These days, she finds far more fulfillment behind the scenes — producing matches, training talent, and helping others grow within the industry.

Newell has already begun embracing that role. She’s been producing shows alongside Miranda Alize and assisting with training at Evolution Dojo in Houston, experiences she described as genuinely rewarding. Helping others succeed, she said, has always come naturally to her, and that mindset has only grown stronger as her career has progressed.

After spending more than a decade wrestling across the globe — including stints in Japan, Europe, Canada, the UK, and several years inside WWE — Newell feels she’s reached a point where lifting others up means more to her than chasing personal accolades.

Her future plans extend beyond wrestling production as well. Newell is actively studying personal training and massage therapy, with a focus on injury recovery for athletes. That path is deeply personal, given her own well-documented history with major injuries.

During her WWE run, Newell suffered multiple devastating setbacks, including an ACL tear just weeks before the inaugural Mae Young Classic and a horrific injury during the 2018 tournament that saw her fracture her tibia while tearing her ACL, MCL, and meniscus. Those experiences, she says, shaped her desire to help others navigate the long and difficult road back from serious injuries.

While she hasn’t completely closed the door on wrestling opportunities that may arise in the next year, Newell made it clear that her priorities have changed. Her focus is now firmly on education, licensing, and building a future centered around coaching, rehabilitation, and mentorship.

Newell’s most recent match took place in December 2025 for Riot Cabaret Pro Wrestling in London. Whether or not fans see her step into the ring again, it’s clear her impact on the wrestling world is far from over — it’s simply entering a new chapter.

Sting’s Son Steven Borden Preparing for First Wrestling Match This October

The Borden family legacy looks set to continue inside the squared circle. Steven Borden, the son of WWE Hall of Famer Sting, is reportedly preparing to make his in-ring debut this October.

Fans last saw Steven earlier this year at AEW Revolution 2024, where he and his brother Garrett paid tribute to their father during Sting’s emotional retirement match. Dressed in one of Sting’s classic looks, Steven even got physical, hitting the Young Bucks with his dad’s iconic Stinger Splashes in a memorable moment that had the wrestling world buzzing.

Now, according to PWInsider Elite, Steven is moving beyond cameos and stepping fully into the ring. His debut is scheduled for shows at New York’s 52 Walker gallery space on October 3 and October 10.

Training Under Darby Allin

What makes this debut even more fitting is who’s helping Steven prepare — none other than Darby Allin, Sting’s final tag team partner and one of the men most influenced by The Icon’s legendary career.

Allin reportedly began working with Steven shortly after Revolution, easing him into wrestling after the younger Borden had been reluctant to follow in his father’s footsteps. Earlier this year, Allin noted that Steven “has big shoes to fill” but emphasized that their training journey has been about respect, legacy, and giving back to Sting, who became both a mentor and friend to him in AEW.

A New Chapter for the Bordens

While Steven Borden made his mark as a football player at the University of Kentucky, his decision to step into the wrestling world is a significant moment. It’s not just about carrying the Sting name — it’s about seeing if the next generation can carve its own path.

With Darby Allin guiding him and the wrestling world watching closely, Steven’s debut this October will be one of the most intriguing stories to follow this fall.

Matt Riddle Explodes on Social Media After No-Show Allegations, Insults Fans Over 2020 “Speaking Out” movement Accusations

Matt Riddle’s name has been making plenty of headlines yesterday, and not for the best of reasons. The former WWE star and current MLW World Heavyweight Champion was called out over the weekend for reportedly no-showing a charity wrestling event in the UK. On top of that, the organizers claimed he refused to return the deposit he had already been paid.

Riddle initially addressed the situation with a video on X, attempting to give his side of the story. But instead of cooling things down, the “Original Bro” poured gasoline on the fire with a second video that quickly went viral for all the wrong reasons.

In the profanity-laced clip, Riddle unloaded on critics and fans who have questioned him in recent years. Much of his anger was directed toward those who believed the accusations made against him during the 2020 “Speaking Out” movement. Riddle was accused at the time by independent wrestler Candy Cartwright, who later filed a lawsuit against him, WWE, EVOLVE, and Gabe Sapolsky. WWE, EVOLVE, and Sapolsky were dismissed from the case in 2021, and Cartwright voluntarily dropped the suit entirely soon after.

In his rant, Riddle dismissed those allegations as “bulls***” and took aim at fans who supported them. He bragged about continuing to get booked, teased a possible return to fighting, and even promoted his OnlyFans account, making sure to emphasize he wasn’t worried about backlash. His message was blunt: those who don’t like him should unfollow him, because he doesn’t care.

While Riddle insisted “the cream rises to the top,” this latest outburst has left many wondering if he’s doing more harm than good to his own career. MLW has not yet commented on the controversy, but it remains to be seen if Riddle’s unfiltered social media presence will impact his standing with the promotion—or future opportunities elsewhere.

Luke Gallows’ Lariato Pro Wrestling Lands Broadcasting Deal, Announces “HEATWAVE” TV Debut Event

Big things are brewing in the world of independent wrestling, as Lariato Pro Wrestling, the Georgia-based promotion founded by former WWE and NJPW stars Luke Gallows (aka Doc Gallows) and Karl Anderson, has officially signed its first-ever broadcasting deal with STGN 49 Media Group.

After nearly a decade of steady growth and grassroots momentum, Lariato Pro is leveling up in a major way. The promotion will now air live events, pay-per-views, and original content across STGN 49’s global platforms, which include ROKU, Amazon Firestick, and Turkish Television, reaching audiences in 33 countries including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the UAE.

According to Gallows and Anderson — collectively known as The Good Brothers, one of the most decorated tag teams in the business — the partnership couldn’t have come at a better time. “We don’t take no for an answer,” the duo emphasized in a statement, calling STGN 49 their “forever home.”

The move is seen as a major win for both sides. STGN 49 Program Director Veronica J. Woodard, along with Lariato’s own talent and event coordinators Chris and Jessica Johnson, will oversee production of the promotion’s upcoming programming slate. Television executive Eric Mitchell praised the deal as an ideal match for STGN’s rebranded direction and family-friendly expansion goals.

First Stop: HEATWAVE

The new era officially kicks off this Saturday, June 14th, with “HEATWAVE” — Lariato Pro’s first televised event under the STGN 49 banner. Set to take place in Dublin, Georgia, the card is headlined by a Triple Threat Match for the LPWG Heavyweight Championship, featuring:

Bryce Cannon (c) vs. Matt Hardy vs. QT Marshall

The champ Cannon faces a tall task defending against two veterans with major company experience — will he survive the heat, or will Hardy or Marshall walk out with the gold?

Also scheduled to appear:

  • The Good Brothers
  • John Skyler
  • Fry Daddy
  • Dax Anthony
  • And more surprises in store

Bell time is 7:30 PM, and tickets are still available at www.theLPWG.com.

With a TV deal now in hand and star power like Matt Hardy and QT Marshall in the mix, Lariato Pro Wrestling Guild is proving it’s ready to take the next step — bringing southern wrestling grit and high-caliber talent to a worldwide stage.

Shotzi Blackheart Announces Multiple GCW Appearances, Plans To Direct Horror Flicks

Shotzi Blackheart is back—and she’s not just bringing chaos to the ring, but also plotting a future behind the camera.

The former WWE star and self-declared “Indy God” has confirmed a string of appearances for GameChanger Wrestling (GCW) in what looks to be a major independent resurgence. Shotzi will step back into the spotlight at multiple events this summer, spanning the U.S. and Japan, all set to stream live on TrillerTV.

Here’s where fans can catch Shotzi in action:

  • June 20 – GCW Bangin’ in Little Rock at The Hall in Little Rock, Arkansas
  • July 11 – GCW Boss of All Bosses in Dallas, Texas
  • July 28 – GCW Tokyo Event at Shinjuku Face, Kabukicho
  • July 29 – GCW Tokyo Event at Itabashi Green Hall, Itabashi City
  • July 30 – GCW Tokyo Event at Korakuen Hall, Bunkyo

Shotzi’s return kicks off with a bang—literally—as she faces off against Atticus Cogar in what’s sure to be a wild encounter at Bangin’ in Little Rock on June 20.

Fresh off her hardcore showdown at GCW Tournament of Survival X—a brutal three-way deathmatch against Matt Tremont and Jimmy Lloyd—Shotzi is once again embracing the gritty chaos that made her a standout in the indie scene before her WWE run.

But wrestling isn’t her only ambition.

During a recent appearance on Daria Berenato’s Unwrapped podcast, Shotzi revealed her dream career path once her days in the ring are over: horror movie director.

“Honestly, after wrestling, when my body just can’t take it anymore, I would love to be a horror movie director. That is the dream,” Shotzi said. “Obviously, be in them also—I just want to get my head chopped off a bunch.”

It’s not a surprising direction for the green-haired wildcard, who has always blended punk-rock attitude with spooky, horror-inspired flair. From her tank-riding entrances to her Halloween Havoc hosting duties, Shotzi has never shied away from theatrics—and it sounds like she’s ready to turn that passion into full-blown filmmaking.

For now, though, she’s got some skulls to crack and some blood to spill—figuratively and maybe literally—on the GCW circuit.

Chris Bey Walks to the Ring and Shares Emotional Message at Benefit Show Following Injury Recovery

TNA Wrestling star Chris Bey took center stage at FSW Mecca X in Las Vegas this past Sunday, delivering an emotional speech to the fans who supported him through his difficult recovery. The event, which aired on TrillerTV, served as a benefit show for Bey, who has been sidelined since October due to a serious neck injury.

A Night of Love and Gratitude

Accompanied by his girlfriend, Brittnie Brooks, Bey walked to the ring to a warm reception. Once inside, he embraced Karrion Kross and Hammerstone, who had just competed in the main event. He then called for his long-time tag team partner, Ace Austin, to join him in the ring before addressing the crowd.

In an emotional speech, Bey expressed his deep appreciation for the wrestling community, emphasizing the support he has received from fans, fellow wrestlers, and everyone behind the scenes.

“I’d be lying if I said I did it by myself because I truly and honestly believe that because of each and every one of you, and everybody in the back, that’s the reason why I’m standing here right now.”

Bey spoke about his lifelong love for wrestling, his gratitude for the opportunity to live his dream, and how much the overwhelming support has meant to him during this time.

“Love is a real thing, and all my life, all I’ve ever truly, truly, truly loved—until I met her [Brittnie]—was professional wrestling.”

The TNA star encouraged everyone in attendance to cherish the moment, embrace their emotions, and appreciate the significance of the night.

The Injury That Changed Everything

Bey’s injury occurred last October during a TNA Tag Team Title match against Matt and Jeff Hardy at an IMPACT taping in Detroit following Bound for Glory. A botched move resulted in a broken neck, forcing him to undergo surgery and take an indefinite hiatus from the ring.

While his in-ring return remains uncertain, Bey’s heartfelt words at FSW Mecca X made it clear that he hasn’t lost his passion for wrestling—or the fans who have stood by him. His speech was a powerful reminder of the bond between wrestlers and their supporters, proving that even in the toughest moments, the love for the business remains unshaken.

With an unforgettable night in the books, the question now remains: When will Chris Bey make his return to the ring?