Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that WWE announcing international legend Jushin “Thunder” Liger for the August 22nd NXT Takeover event in Brooklyn has opened up a “political hornets nest” due to Liger being a New Japan Pro Wrestling talent and NJPW being a partner of Ring of Honor, which runs head-to-head with NXT in the same city that night, with a show also features NJPW stars.
ROH reportedly sold 1,100 tickets for their Field of Honor show that night, a number they were happy with. They were expecting 2,000 tickets sold but The Observer notes that ticket sales stalled once WWE announced Takeover. Ticket sales also reportedly stalled for Jim Ross’ “Ringside” one-man show, which takes place in nearby Manhattan. It was noted that any talks there would have been about moving shows to the afternoon to avoid head-to-head competition were decided against, but it wasn’t specified which company decided against making a move. WWE actually canceled a live event in White Plains, NY that night to avoid splitting their audience.
We’ve noted how there are moves being made behind-the-scenes in WWE that relate to ROH. WWE has reportedly contacted at least one venue that ROH uses with the idea that WWE will run them if they no longer book ROH.
WWE booking Liger could be the start of a relationship between NJPW and WWE, who hasn’t officially worked with any groups in Japan for years. ROH was not aware of Liger being booked for Takeover until the news broke and The Observer notes that even by pro wrestling standards, the booking is a major double-cross. It should be noted that Liger is able to book himself anywhere but NJPW is promoting the NXT appearance.
