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| (Image Source: Wrestlezone/National Wrestling Alliance/Lightning One Inc.) |
The National Wrestling Alliance introduces Texas Style Wrestling (TSW) as the latest member of recently-announced NWA Texas. The announcement of the expansion was made by NWA's Chief Operating Officer Joe Galli at a TSW live event last December 7, 2024. Unveiled last November 16, 2024, NWA Texas became the sixth recognized NWA territory. TSW joins Dogg Pound Championship Wrestling (DPCW) as founding members of the governing body uniting wrestling promotions across The Lone Star State under the National Wrestling Alliance banner.
“Texas Style Wrestling is excited to become an exclusive NWA Texas territory,” says TSW principle David Horachek. Fellow TSW principle Randy Cline agrees, saying, “We look forward to this partnership and the many advantages it brings to the wrestling fans throughout North Texas and across the Southwest. Combining our brands will strengthen our ability to provide ruff, rugged, and real family-style wrestling entertainment.” Based in the Greater Dallas Area, TSW regularly films live event television tapings at The OC Theatre in Forney, Texas. The all-new, high-tech venue is slated to house NWA Shockwave, an NWA Signature Live Event slated to be held on January 11, 2025. According to NWA National Promoter Bryan Idol, NWA Texas will oversee TSW, San Antonio-centric DPCW and potentially more organizations. He also indicates that once the territory is finalized, titles specific to NWA Texas will be introduced. Idol states, “Texas is a huge state, with so many top-tier promotions filled with awesome athletes and champions. The National Wrestling Alliance brings these companies together as NWA Texas, allowing their wrestlers to compete for sanctioned NWA titles.”
NWA Texas launched exactly two weeks after the November 2, 2024 announcement of the Missouri-based NWA World League Wrestling (WLW), founded by NWA legend Harley Race 25 years ago, as the fifth official National Wrestling Alliance territory under the management of its owner and president William Patrick Corgan. Idol shares in conclusion, “Piece-by-piece, region-by-region, we are rebuilding the legendary territory system that defined the NWA for generations. Now whether it’s in Texas, Chicago, Cleveland, Tennessee or Missouri or at National Wrestling Alliance Signature Live Events in Dothan, AL and Forney. Fans can experience the hard-hitting pro wrestling action of the NWA live!” For more news and updates on the roster and upcoming events of the National Wrestling Alliance, visit its official website at www.NationalWrestlingAlliance.com.
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Salaño, Hallasgo Crowned Champions In National MILO Marathon Finale
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| Army standout and new MILO Marathon King Richard Salaño and reigning MILO Marathon Christine Hallasgo will represent the Philippines in the 2025 Sydney Marathon following their triumph at the 42K event of the National MILO Marathon's finale in Cagayan de Oro City. (Image Source: ABS-CBN News/MILO Philippines) |
Reigning MILO Marathon Queen Christine Hallasgo and Army standout Richard Salaño triumphed in the 42K event of the National MILO Marathon during its final leg in Cagayan de Oro City. In recognition of their extraordinary grit, discipline, and perseverance, the two were awarded the prestigious titles of MILO Marathon Queen and King and secured the honor of representing the Philippines at the 2025 Sydney Marathon.
Determined to defend her crown first claimed in 2020, Southeast Asian (SEA) Games bronze medalist Hallasgo outclassed her fiercest competitors, finishing at 02:59:29, just a minute ahead of Artjoy Torregosa of Agusan del Norte, who clocked in at 3:00:28. Elite runner Maricar Camacho completed the top three in the women’s division with a time of 03:08:21. In the men’s division, Richard Salaño clinched his first MILO Marathon King title with a time of 02:26:29, surpassing top contender Sonny Wagdos who had led the race but finished fourth at 02:29:39. SEA Games gold medalist Arlan Arbois Jr. landed second with 02:26:38 while Eduard Flores of General Santos placed third at 02:27:34. Head of MILO Sports Carlo Sampan expressed immense pride in the champions, saying, “Christine and Richard have shown what true champions are made of. Their sheer grit, unyielding discipline, and remarkable perseverance exemplify the values that MILO stands for. We are thrilled to be part of their journey as they step onto the global stage at the 2025 Sydney Marathon. They have proven that determination and passion can take anyone to greater heights.”
Hallasgo and Salaño are now gearing up to face new challenges on the international stage. For Hallasgo, this milestone represents another opportunity to bring honor to the country and inspire future Filipino athletes. Hallasgo shared, “This win is not just for me, but for everyone who believes in the power of hard work and perseverance. Representing the Philippines in the Sydney Marathon is a dream come true, and I will give my all to make our country proud.” As a first-time MILO Marathon King, Salaño is embracing this new chapter in his career. He remarked, “This title is a testament to the years of training, sacrifice, and unwavering faith in my abilities. I’m excited to compete on the global stage and show the world what Filipino runners can achieve.”
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Chelsea And Ascott Make History With The Famous CFC Event In Singapore
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| Around 250 supporters, including Ascott’s mascot Cubby, gathered at the atrium of Funan to catch the live screening of the football match between Chelsea and Aston Villa last December 1, 2024, celebrating alongside Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola (front row, second from left). On Zola’s right was CapitaLand Investment Group Chief Operating Officer Andrew Lim and on his left were CapitaLand Investment Group Chief Executive Officer Lee Chee Koon and Ascott Chief Commercial Officer Tan Bee Leng. (Image Source: Galveston County Daily News/Chelsea Football Club) |
Chelsea Football Club, in collaboration with Ascott Limited, brought the exhilarating Famous CFC to Singapore, marking a monumental first edition in Southeast Asia. Held last November 30-December 1, 2024, this fan engagement event brought together hundreds of passionate supporters for an unforgettable experience. The event, anchored at lyf Funan Singapore, included a variety of exciting activities such as football coaching clinics, a watch party for Chelsea’s match against Aston Villa, and exclusive meet-and-greets with Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola. As Chelsea’s Official Global Hotels Partner, Ascott played a pivotal role in delivering extraordinary experiences to Chelsea fans and Ascott Star Rewards members.
The Singapore edition of The Famous CFC provided an exceptional opportunity for Chelsea supporters in Southeast Asia to connect with their favorite football club in person. The festivities were spread across iconic locations like lyf Funan Singapore, The Robertson House by The Crest Collection, and Ascott Orchard Singapore, offering fans exclusive interactions with Chelsea’s football icons. Zola, who has long been adored by Chelsea fans, made special appearances at various venues, sharing his love for the fans and reflecting on his celebrated career. During a memorable meet-and-greet at The Robertson House, Zola spent time with Ascott Star Rewards members, taking photos, signing autographs, and even crafting a custom cocktail at Chandu, the hotel’s speakeasy. True to its commitment to community, The Famous CFC kicked off with football coaching clinics at The Ark futsal court, where participants were taught by Chelsea coaches. These clinics were made even more special with a visit from Zola, who inspired young players, including those from SportCares and the Singapore Disability Sports Council.
The event also included a live charity auction during a lively dinner at lyf Funan Singapore, where Chelsea fans had the chance to bid on exclusive memorabilia, including shirts autographed by Zola and rising star Cole Palmer. The auction proceeds were donated to the Goh Chok Tong Enable Fund which supports individuals with disabilities in Singapore. The excitement peaked with a thrilling watch party for Chelsea’s game against Aston Villa. Held at Funan’s atrium, over 250 fans gathered to watch the match live, with Zola celebrating alongside them. Fans were also treated to surprise messages from players like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Marcus Bettinelli, further elevating the event’s festive atmosphere. For Ascott, the success of The Famous CFC reflects its growing influence in the world of football. By blending hospitality, entertainment, and sports, Ascott is strengthening its position as a leader in offering unforgettable experiences for Chelsea’s global fanbase. Plans are already underway to bring this fan-favorite event to other cities in 2025, further cementing the Ascott-Chelsea partnership.
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Revilla, Abos Conquers Galaxy Watch Cebu Half-Marathon
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/RUNRIO) |
Mark Von Revilla and Eva Marie Abos conquered the Galaxy Watch Cebu Half-Marathon, topping their respective categories at City di Mare in Cebu City last November 24, 2024. Revilla was the fastest male in the 21K race, finishing the course in one hour, 21 minutes, and 28 seconds. He bested Lexter Gaine who had a time of 1:22:19 and Jessie Abelgas who had 1:33:46 in this run which traversed the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) organized by RUNRIO and sponsored by Samsung. Abos, meanwhile, topped the female in the same track with her time of one hour, 52 minutes, and 30 seconds. Her mark was better than her closest pursuers Maria Glen Pontanar who clocked in at 2:04:15 and Karyl Clara Sumayao who got 2:11:41 in this race which also had Gatorade as official sports drink, Le Minerale as official hydration partner, and is supported by the Department of Tourism and its Love The Philippines campaign.
Triathlete Nikko Huelgas, one of the 1,600 runners who participated in the event, shared, “Ang saya ng experience ko dito sa Galaxy Watch Cebu Half Marathon. It’s my first time to join the Galaxy Watch event here and I’m very happy because I get to travel to Cebu, I get to stay fit at the same time and I get to tour around the beautiful island of Cebu.” Jhonn Marc Dizon was the fastest male in 10K, timing at 39 minutes and 23 seconds, besting Aldrid Abrasaldo (43:09) and AJ Amamangpang (43:43), while Asia Paraase had the best time among the female with her time of 41 minutes and four seconds, faster than podium finishers Michelle Zamora (41:49) and Jeanly Mata (53:11). In the 5K race, Clint Nino Roma had the best mark among the men finishing the course in 17 minutes and 25 seconds, followed by Mikhann Ochoa (19:49) and Stanley Apat (20:20). Kydie Ashriel Guinto was the fastest among the women with her time of 21 minutes and 35 seconds, with Fritzie Surima (21:40) and Enchantress Pauleen Claudio (28:02) not far behind. The event was also backed by City di Mare, Aerophone, and Olympic Village United, Astrotel as hotel partner, and sponsored by Virginia, Park Access, Grab, and Katinko.
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TNA Wrestling Brings Major 2025 PPV Events To New York City And Los Angeles, California
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| (Image Source: 411Mania.com/Total Nonstop Action Wrestling) |
Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling recently held an online poll where over one million wrestling fans from across the globe were given the choice to decide where it will bring a major PPV event in 2025. The poll results state that there is no overwhelming winner between New York City and Los Angeles, California. It is then confirmed that TNA Wrestling will bring its major PPV events in 2025 to both cities. Its Rebellion pay-per-view will be held on April 27, 2025 at the Galen Center on the Los Angeles campus of the University of Southern California (USC) while its flagship summer spectacular Slammiversary will be on July 20, 2024 at the UBS Arena in Belmont Park in New York.
The Galen Center is home to the USC Trojans basketball and USC volleyball teams, and has played host to concerts, pageants, theatrical performances and more. The annual Kids’ Choice Awards, presented by Nickelodeon, have originated from the Galen Center numerous times. Opened in 2021, the UBS Arena is the home of the New York Islanders of the National Hockey League (NHL). “I am beyond excited to defend the TNA World Championship from coast to coast, in the two of the most iconic cities in the world, Los Angeles and New York City. This is a groundbreaking day for TNA Wrestling. I cannot wait for the ride that TNA will be on in 2025,” said current reigning TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth. Both of these events will be aired live and exclusive worldwide on TNA+, TrillerTV and international broadcast partners.
TNA Wrestling also announced its next set of live events throughout March 2025. The first will be on March 14-15, 2025 in El Paso, Texas where the first night will be the live TNA+ special Sacrifice while the second night is slated to be for the company's flagship weekly television program TNA iMPACT! TNA will then head to St. Joseph (Kansas City), Missouri on March 28-29, 2024 for two nights of TNA iMPACT! tapings. Meanwhile, kicking off the new year for TNA is its first event of 2025, Genesis, which will air live around the world on pay-per-view on January 19, 2025 at the Curtis Culwell Center in Garland, Texas, part of the Dallas Metroplex, marking the first TNA show in Dallas since 2022 followed by the fallout from Genesis on January 23rd as TNA’s flagship weekly TV show iMPACT! will broadcast LIVE in the U.S. on AXS TV and worldwide on TNA+ from the Boeing Center at Tech Port in San Antonio.
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Musical Performance By Nav At 2024 World Championships Mark PFL's Renewed Partnership With Bose
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| (Image Source: Professional Fighters League) |
The Professional Fighters League (PFL), the fastest growing and most innovative sports league, recently announced a renewed partnership with Bose, world renowned premium audio brand, as the official sound partner of the PFL for both the 2024 and 2025 Global Seasons. Through the partnership, the PFL and Bose are connecting their two communities, bringing the power of sound to athletes and fans to truly inspire performance. In celebration of this development, Bose and PFL hosted a special musical performance by multi-platinum Canadian rapper and record producer Nav at the 2024 PFL World Championships last November 29, 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia featuring two songs from the chart topping artist.
Bose also began its partnership with PFL Women’s Flyweight star and No. 1 contender, Dakota Ditcheva who defeated Taila Santos by second round technical knockout (TKO) to become the 2024 PFL Women’s Flyweight World Champion. The daughter of accomplished kickboxing, karate, and Muay Thai star and combat sports world champion Lisa Howarth is the first fighter to win a PFL regional title (2023 PFL Europe Women's Flyweight Champion) and go on to become a PFL World Champion. “The PFL is pleased to have Bose return as the official sound partner for another two seasons. Like the PFL, Bose provides a premium experience to consumers around the world,” said PFL Chief Commercial Officer Bryan Calka. The 2024 PFL World Championships are available on-demand on ESPN + in the U.S. and via DAZN in Canada, Europe and additional premium sports platforms internationally.
PFL is the only organization in MMA with the sports-season format where individual fighters compete in a Regular Season, Playoffs, and Championship each year. The combined roster of PFL and Bellator boasts 30% of its fighters independently world-ranked in the top 25 of their respective weight-class. PFL has an expansive global vision for the sport and is building the “Champions League of MMA” with PFL Europe, PFL MENA, and more international leagues in development. PFL leads in technology and innovation with its proprietary PFL SmartCage, powering fight analytics, real-time betting, AI scoring, and a next-generation viewing experience.
