Chairshot Wrestling Shuffle: AEW/NJPW, TLC, Ranallo and More! (12/2019)

Get caught up to speed with the latest news regarding AEW/NJPW, TLC, Ranallo and More!

AEW/New Japan Relationship A Possibility?

Since the formation of AEW, I have discussed the potential possibility of the company working with New Japan Pro Wrestling. However, it had appeared based on statements from NJPW management that the company had no desire to work with AEW. However, feelings may have changes. NJPW President Harold Meij had the following to say in regards to working with AEW in a recent interview with FOX Sports.

“We’re very open to working with anyone, we don’t exclude anyone. But it does take time to create that trust between companies. And right now AEW is still in the exploratory phase; they’re trying to establish themselves as a brand, what is that brand? They’re about one year in, and we’re starting to see what their brand is all about. Then we’ll have to see if that brand fits our brand of course. At this stage, they still have different styles than we do, and that’s the only thing. We’re looking at what their brand positioning is and whether it complements ours.”

Jason’s Take

Obviously, many of the top stars of NJPW left for AEW. However, if there was the potential to do business and make money, I couldn’t see why AEW and NJPW wouldn’t work together.

Hardy’s Leaving WWE ?

Matt Hardy recently returned to WWE TV while Jeffy Hardy has been struggling with recent legal troubles. According to PWInsider, the Hardy’s contracts are set to expire soon, however the company appears to be close to a deal with Matt Hardy. According to the report, the deal is held up based on how the Matt Hardy character will be used on TV.

Jason’s Take

While Matt Hardy does have some time left in the ring, I think he has a lot to offer in a training or developmental role, working with younger talent to help them develop. However, one shouldn’t rule out the possibility of Matt and Jeff ending up in AEW.

Three Matches Advertised For TLC

In a new commercial airing via the Target Center, the venue which is holding the 2019 TLC pay per view, three matches are being advertised. The three matches are:

– Roman Reigns vs. King Corbin in a Tables Match
– Charlotte Flair & Becky Lynch vs. The Kabuki Warriors in the first-ever Women’s TLC match
– Bobby Lashley vs. Rusev (w/Lana)

New #WWETLC commercial confirms 3 top matches for the show (via @TargetCenterMN) pic.twitter.com/zoKfIekQje

— WrestlingNews.co – WWE/AEW News (@WrestlingNewsCo) December 1, 2019

Jason’s Take

Obviously, TLC is the in between pay per view before we get to Royal Rumble and the road to WrestleMania.

Update On Mauro Ranallo

Dave Meltzer recently provided an update on Maruro Ranallo on his recent edition of Wrestling Observer Radio. Meltzer stated:

“As far as Mauro Ranallo goes, he is doing better and I don’t know if he’s gonna be there Wednesday or not. I know the company has been in touch. I have the impression [that] they’re trying for him to be ready on Wednesday so hopefully he will.”

Jason’s Take

Here is hoping things are ok with Mauro and we see him back on WWE TV soon.