Shinsuke Nakamura
Photo Credit: Getty Images

Backstage News On Local Reception For The WWE Japan Tour, Note On Expected 7/4 RAW Rating, Reason For Cruiserweight Classic Rescheduling

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WWE Japan

Source: The Wrestling Observer Newsletter 

The announced matches for WWE’s upcoming Japan tour were reportedly received with a bit of disappointment in Japan, even though both shows sold out immediately. 

The thought was that Shinsuke Nakamura, who is facing Bray Wyatt on the tour, might be featured in a single match in the main event, which is occupied by Roman Reigns defending in a triple threat match. Nakamura’s match will be very meaningful, but he has the same opponent both nights, and it was also booked as the fourth highest match on the card. 

Additionally, the Japanese wrestling markets usually frown upon triple threat title matches, and two consecutive nights didn’t make things easier, making it look like WWE is booking for themselves, not the Japanese audience. 

It was also noted that Charlotte and Asuka will be kept apart as far as this tour goes, possibly giving room for future plans. 

Related: Cards Announced For WWE Live Shows In Japan

WWE RAW

The WWE RAW on July 4th is expected to be the lowest rated show of the modern TV era, if not lowest ever, considering it falls on Independence Day, but the final numbers won’t mean much considering the day it will air. 

WWE Cruiserweight Classic

According to reports, the WWE Cruiserweight Classic is being taped on separate nights through the summer instead of during one week likely due to cost cutting mesaures. The Classic matches will now be taped on the same nights as scheduled NXT tapings on 6/23, 7/14, 8/26 and 9/14.

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