As the dust settles after Ric Flair’s Last Match, more details have emerged about last-minute changes that have impacted the show.
According to Wrestling Observer Radio, the Von Erichs (Marshall and Ross Von Erich), who lost by pinfall to the Briscoes (Jay and Mark Briscoe) in a tag team match, had their flight delayed from Hawaii to the event. Dave Meltzer noted that the fight was supposed to take place earlier in the show, but due to the delays, the map was changed to allow the fight to take place later than planned. Meltzer also revealed that MLW (Major League Wrestling)’s Alex Hammerstone was booked for the show but his flight was canceled entirely, meaning he missed the segment he was booked for with Frank the Clown and the segment eventually was with Jacob Fatu.
Regarding the injuries at the event, Meltzer said that Ric Flair, who played alongside Andrade El Idolo against Jeff Jarrett and Jay Lethal for 27 minutes in his last match, was “fine.” The 73-year-old, who pinned WWE Hall of Famer Jarrett to bring the win for his team, obviously struggled and was torn open during the game. Meltzer noted that Flair “didn’t look okay” but understands he’s healthy despite being “blown up” during the fight. On the contrary, Rachel Ellering, who unsuccessfully fought for the Impact Knockouts Championship at the event with champion Jordynne Grace and Deonna Purrazzo, suffered a “severely sprained ankle.”
Meltzer returned to Flair’s final hooray inside the square circle and, based on feedback he received, revealed that fans who caught the main event live at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium thought it was a “fantastic match.” However, those watching at home thought it was “an absolutely horrific game,” ultimately dividing opinions. Meltzer himself called Flair’s latest swan song one of the “saddest things” he’s seen in wrestling in a long time.
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