Welcome to F4WOnline.com’s live coverage of UFC Fight Night 99: Mousasi vs. Hall 2, eminating from The SSE Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

This is the first of two UFC events today and the first time the Octagon has visited Northern Ireland since UFC 72 in June 2007. The event is headlined by a five-round middleweight bout as Gegard Mousasi and Uriah Hall meet in a rematch. Mousasi and Hall fought in September 2015, a fight dominated in the opening round by Mousasi. However, in the second round, Hall knocked out Mousasi with a spinning back kick in one of the biggest upsets in MMA in 2015. Mousasi has won three straight since then and is looking for revenge.

This event airs entirely on UFC Fight Pass and features a host of European fighters, including a co-main event pitting England’s Ross Pearson against Scotland’s Stevie Ray. Also on the main card is the UFC debut of former Bellator Heavyweight Champion Alexander Volkov, who takes on Timothy Johnson. In a strong preliminary card bout, it is a pair of former flyweight title challengers as Kyoji Horiguchi takes on Ali Bagautinov.

Follow along with our live coverage of the event beginning at 12:30 PM eastern time with preliminary action all the way thru the main card.

Some additional coverage:
– UFC Fight Night 99 DFS Playbook

UFC FIGHT PASS PRELIMS | 12:30 PM ET/9:30 AM PT

> Charlie Ward (3-1, 0-0 UFC) vs. Abdul Razak Alhassan (6-0, 0-0 UFC)
Welterweights

Both men were making their UFC debuts. This didn’t last long. They were throwing big fists early and Alhassan dropped Ward several times and then dropped him with a big right hand and finished it early as the referee stepped in. It was quite a slugfest and went less than a minute.

Official Result: Abdul Razak Alhassan def. Charlie Ward by knockout (punches) at :53 of Round 1

> Brett Johns (12-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. Kwan Ho Kwak (9-0, 0-0 UFC)
Bantamweights

Another fight with two men making their UFC debuts. Johns made the first round a grind, scoring six takedowns in the opening five minutes. Kwak had no answer for them and he couldn’t get up from the bottom. There wasn’t much action on the feet and a clear round for Johns. Johns rocked Kwak early in the second round, but instead of going for a finish, went back to the grinding takedown gameplan. It allowed Kwak to recover and they were trading. Johns threw a flying knee in while Kwak threw a spin kick. Johns rocked him again and took him down again. It was another round for Johns. Kwak came out firing in the third knowing he had to score a finish. Johns was eating punches but then went right back to taking Kwak down. Johns was just hitting him all over with punches from the top and Kwak had no answer. Kwak did tee off late on Johns but they survived the fight. Johns looked really good here and this was a good fight. I had it 30-27 Johns.

Johns won all three rounds on all three scorecards. All were good scores.

Official Result: Brett Johns def. Kwan Ho Kwak by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> Marion Reneau (#15, 6-3, 2-2 UFC) vs. Milana Dudieva (11-4, 1-1 UFC)
Women’s Bantamweights

This is Dudieva’s first fight since giving birth. It was primarily a striking battle early until Dudieva got a takedown off a kick. They got back to their feet and Reneau landed some punches late. Reneau landing better gave her the round. Reneau came out pressuring Dudieva against the fence and took the back in the second. Dudieva got a judo throw. Reneau got up and hurt Dudieva against the fence with elbows and knees. Reneau almost finished Dudieva late. It was another round for Reneau. Reneau was pressuring in the third and got a takedown into mount. Reneau trapped her arms and was landing big punches until the fight was finally stopped. Reneau looked impressive in the third round. She called out Bethe Correia after the fight.

Official Result: Marion Reneau def. Milana Dudieva by TKO (punches) at 3:03 of Round 3

> Zak Cummings (19-5, 4-2 UFC) vs. Alexander Yakovlev (23-7-1, 2-3 UFC)
Welterweights (Cummings missed weight coming in at 172.8 pounds)

Neither man did a whole lot in the first as it was a lot of circling around and Cummings controlling the center of the Octagon. Cummings landed more but Yakovlev landed harder punches. It was close but I had it for Cummings. Not a whole lot happened in the second round as Cummings was landing. Yakovlev wasn’t returning a lot of strikes and was more eating punches. Cummings threw off a takedown attempt from Yakovlev. Cummings then grabbed an arm and got in an armbar and Yakovlev quickly tapped out.

Official Result: Zak Cummings def. Alexander Yakovlev by submission (armbar) at 4:02 of Round 2

> Justin Ledet (7-0 1 NC, 1-0 UFC) vs. Mark Godbeer (11-2, 0-0 UFC)
Heavyweights

They were trading early and Ledet got a takedown. They got up and went back down as Godbeer drug it down to the mat by grabbing a leg. Ledet jumped on the back and locked in a rear-naked choke and Godbeer tapped out.

Official Result: Justin Ledet def. Mark Godbeer by submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:16 of Round 1

> Anna Elmose (3-1, 0-1 UFC) vs. Amanda Cooper (1-2, 0-1 UFC)
Women’s Strawweights

The first round was all striking on the feet until late. Cooper was more aggressive but Elmose did drop her as she was coming forward. Elmose landed some elbows from the top and cut Cooper open. Close until the end which got Elmose the round. They traded and Elmose slipped and Cooper almost capitalized but ended on her back. Cooper got a takedown and was controlling the top and landing punches. Cooper almost got an armbar late. It’s even after two rounds. They were trading in the third with Cooper landing the better shots, mixing in kicks. Neither lady was making it a clear round for them when they were needing to. Cooper was mixing more and got a takedown late and that should seal her the fight. Solid fight from both, I had it 29-28 Cooper.

Cooper got the decision. One judge gave her all three rounds, which I don’t see how that is possible with that first round.

Official Result: Amanda Cooper def. Anna Elmose by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

> Kevin Lee (13-2, 6-2 UFC) vs. Magomed Mustafaev (14-1, 2-0 UFC)
Lightweights

Mustafaev came out strong early but Lee got a takedown. Mustafaev threatened with a choke but Lee got out after another takedown. Mustafaev landed all kinds of spinning stuff and Lee got a takedown. Lee got a big slam late and the first round was his on the strength of takedowns. Lee got some more takedowns in the second. Mustafaev threatened with submissions but Lee would get positioning back when he found himself in trouble. Lee making it a grind but not really going for a finish. Then he got Mustafaev’s back and locked in a choke and tapped him out. Strong showing by Lee against a tough opponent. Lee cut a passionate and colorful promo after the fight saying he’s the best lightweight and he’d put Conor McGregor down. The crowd didn’t like that, and McGregor is in attendance.

Official Result: Kevin Lee def. Magomed Mustafaev by submission (rear-naked choke) at 4:31 of Round 2

> Kyoji Horiguchi (#4, 17-2, 6-1 UFC) vs. Ali Bagautinov (#8, 14-4, 4-2 UFC)
Flyweights

They traded early and Bagautinov got a brief takedown. Horiguchi got up and took the fight to the mat and had Bagautinov’s back and was landing. Bagautinov got up and scored a big takedown. They got up and Horiguchi landed a big punch. Close round I had for Horiguchi. Both men were looking for an opening in the second and Horiguchi found it by stunning Bagautinov with a left hand. Horiguchi landed follow punches and forced the fight into a grind. Horiguchi took the fight down and landed more and landed more on the feet. I had the second round a little more clear for Horiguchi. They came out swinging in close range. Horiguchi was getting the better of the striking and Bagautinov went for the takedown but it was defended. He went for it again but again it was stuffed. Horiguchi separated and landed some good punches at the end. Solid fight and I had it 30-27 Horiguchi.

Straight 30-27 scores for Horiguchi.

Official Result: Kyoji Horiguchi def. Ali Bagautinov by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> Magnus Cedenblad (14-4, 4-1 UFC) vs. Jack Marshman (20-5, 0-0 UFC)
Middleweights

Marshman dropped Cedenblad early with a left hand. Cedenblad recovered and scored a big takedown. Cedenblad controlled with big punches from the top, opening a cut on Marshman’s eye. Marshman had no answer to getting up from the bottom. Nice comeback in the round from being rocked for Cedenblad as he took round one. Marshman came out and landed another big left hand that hurt Cedenblad. Marshman is getting the better of the striking battle. Marshman landed a big right hand and then dropped Cedenblad with another and swarmed on him with a bunch of punches before the referee stepped in and stopped the fight. Impressive finish by Marshman as he was in trouble in the first.

Official Result: Jack Marshman def. Magnus Cedenblad by TKO (strikes) at 3:32 of Round 2

UFC FIGHT PASS MAIN CARD | 4 PM ET/1 PM PT

> Artem Lobov (12-12-1 1 NC, 1-2 UFC) vs. Teruto Ishihara (9-2-2, 2-0-1 UFC)
Featherweights

They were trading and Ishihara got a brief takedown. Lobov landed a big right hand and then another. Ishihara was mixing his strikes while Lobov was primarily punching. Ishihara landed a couple of kicks. Lobov landed a big right hand and a left hook that rocked Ishihara. Lobov hurt him again late with a kick and punches. Lobov got the first round. Lobov rocked Ishihara again with some punches. They were trading kicks and Lobov was landing his punches. Ishihara slowing down a lot. Ishihara landed a big left hand. Lobov landing at will and Ishihara started to run away. Both men starting to land solid shot. Lobov has more volume. Lobov’s leg kicks making the difference and he’s controlling the center better. Lobov got the second round as well. Ishihara visibly tired. Lobov landing the left hand and front leg kick at will. Ishihara then rocked Lobov with a left hand and dropped Lobov. Ishihara right into the guard and landed some punches. They got back to their feet. Lobov stuffed a takedown and then got a takedown himself late in the fight. Lobov ended the fight strong on top. I give Ishihara the last round though. Overall, I have it 29-28 Lobov. Good fight, Conor McGregor came into the cage to congratulate Lobov.

Lobov got the decision winning on all scorecards.

Official Result: Artem Lobov def. Teruto Ishihara by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

> Tim Johnson (#14, 10-2, 2-1 UFC) vs. Alexander Volkov (26-6, 0-0 UFC)
Heavyweights

Volkov is a former Bellator champ making his UFC debut. They traded early and Volkov rocked Johnson with several right hands and pushed him into a clinch. Johnson then rocked Volkov with a big right hand uppercut and is looking for the finish. Johnson giving Volkov a lot of time to recover. Johnson landing big from the top. Volkov got to his feet and Johnson is bleeding badly from his nose. They survived the round, which I give to Johnson. Johnson landed some big punches to start the second but Volkov answered back. Johnson got a brief takedown but they got up. Johnson is landing short punches and Volkov isn’t doing much. Johnson landed a big right hand on a break of a clinch. Both men are tired. Johnson got the second round. The third starts off with both landing and landing knees in a clinch. The fight has slowed considerably. Volkov landed a big knee to the gut. This fight has turned into a very boring one. Johnson went for a takedown but Volkov landed a knee. Third round to Volkov. I have it 29-28 Johnson.

Volkov got the decision, winning two rounds on two scorecards. Johnson won all three rounds on the other scorecard. I’m not so sure about this decision at all.

Official Result: Alexander Volkov def. Tim Johnson by split decision (29-28, 27-30, 29-28)

> Ross Pearson (19-12 1 NC, 11-9 1 NC UFC) vs. Stevie Ray (19-6, 3-1 UFC)
Lightweights

Pearson is on his fifth UFC fight this year. Ray getting the better of the striking through the first 90 seconds. They traded leg kicks. Pearson landed an uppercut and Ray followed with a leg kick. They traded big leg kicks. A lot of circling around and Pearson with a body kick. They traded body kicks. Ray got a big slam late and grabbed the back and landed a knee. I think that got him the round. Ray with the first on my scorecard. Ray came out landing kicks. Pearson has been unable to really get a groove going. Ray doing a good job of circling around and he shot for a takedown. They trade leg kicks. Ray definitely using his range well. They’re just trading with neither man having a clear power edge. Ray has just a little more volume and connection on his strikes. Ray landed a big body kick. Close round but I had it for Ray with him winning both. The pace slowed down and Ray was keeping Pearson off balance with his movement. Ray landed some big body kicks. Ray landed a glancing head kick. Pearson having trouble connecting. Ray landing big leg kicks. They traded kicks late. This one will be interesting as rounds were close but I had it 30-27 Ray.

Two judges had the same score, 30-27 for Ray. One judge had it 30-27 for Pearson. I don’t see how that score is possible.

Official Result: Stevie Ray def. Ross Pearson by split decision (27-30, 30-27, 30-27)

> Gegard Mousasi (#5, 40-6-2, 7-3 UFC) vs. Uriah Hall (#10, 12-7, 5-5 UFC)
Middleweights

Hall was landing leg kicks early and Mousasi landed a nice jab that snapped Hall’s head back. Hall landed a spin kick right to the chin, much like their first fight. Hall missed another spin kick attempt. Mousasi got a takedown and started landing a lot of punches. Hall was eating them and the referee stepped in and stopped the fight. First round finish and win for Mousasi. Mousasi then said he’s coming for the title. This is his last fight on his current UFC contract.

Official Result: Gegard Mousasi def. Uriah Hall by TKO (punches) at 4:37 of Round 1

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

Donald Trump picks Linda McMahon for a cabinet-level position
WWE SmackDown video highlights: The Miz vs. Dean Ambrose  
WWE 205 Live results: Brian Kendrick gets a rematch for the title   
WWE SmackDown live results: AJ Styles vs. James Ellsworth  
Raw ratings drop a bit for this week’s episode  
UFC TUF finale cracks 1 million viewers; Bellator MMA holds its own despite competition   
WWE removes Jerry Lawler & Lita from regular TV duties 
Sasha Banks to face Charlotte in an Iron Man match at WWE Roadblock

AUDIO

B&V&C: DX plays strip poker, Vince vs. Austin, Starrcade build 12/6
WOL: RAW Monday, Roadblock END OF THE LINE, WWE Network, more! 12/6
Big Audio Nightmare: Amazing AJPW; NOAH’s new look, DDT, more 12/6
WOR: RAW report, AJ Styles injury update, New Japan and NOAH notes, more! 12/6

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 11/28/2016 Buddy Rose investigated by CSAC for getting too much heat 

When we last left you, “Playboy” Buddy Rose, real name Paul Perschmann, was in the middle of a mess with the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC). While he had already been able to get out from under a case where he got in trouble over a match that had a referee bump, the latest issue in that went on from late 1978 through 1979 was a bit more complicated…

Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: December 5, 2016 Wrestling Observer Hall of Fame with 4 inductees

What is traditionally the most talked about issue of the year, the 2016 Hall of Fame Observer issue is now out with the full balloting, stories on both the people now in as well as notes on many not in, plus how candidates did when broken down by reports, historians, active wrestler and former wrestlers. Also, look at who is on next year’s ballot who is being dropped from next year’s ballot and others in danger of being dropped.

Take a look at what UFC is expecting with its next television deal, notes on the timing of the deal, why the deal is so important, the landscape of television in general, how cutting the cord affects revenues and what stations can afford, and who has expressed interest in UFC.

There are some very interesting things going on behind the scenes in wrestling regarding contract offers, moves being made by television and streaming services. Find out how this will affect the pro wrestling business over the next year and for time to come.

Read about the announcement of the new Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Association, what they are looking for, what is and isn’t accurate, and how they are looking to get the concessions from UFC.

Finally, get an update on the situation with Daniel Cormier and how his injury led to Conor McGregor being stripped of the featherweight title, updates on UFC 206 and predictions on it, plus the injuries at AKA…

Subscribers click here to continue.

ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer, or by using PayPal directing funds to [email protected]. 
 
Rates in the United States are $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52. In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to [email protected]. For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52. If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.)

If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can choose one free classic issue, or two free classic issues with a 40-issue subscription.

WON BACK ISSUE: November 15, 1999: ECW November to Remember review, Dynamite Kid book, more – The most publicized story ever in North American pro wrestling, the tragic death of Owen Hart on 5/23, is brought vividly back to life with the documentary “The life and death of Owen Hart.” The one-hour piece, debuted in Ontario on TVO on 11/3, in the rest of Canada on 11/6 on the A Channel and will be part of A&E’s bio week on pro wrestling, with an 11/16 showing… click here to continue.

WEDNESDAY NEWS UPDATE
WWE

You can’t see… LIVE from New York it’s Saturday night!
Saturday Night Live released a promo video featuring John Cena for his upcoming hosting appearance this Saturday. Cena did an interview talking about hosting the show and why he isn’t afraid to make fun of himself.
Linda McMahon tweeted about being appointed as head of the Small Business Administration by President-elect Donald Trump: “Honored to be appointed by President-Elect @realDonaldTrump to serve as head of @SBAgov advocating for our small businesses & entrepreneurs!”
Vince McMahon, Stephanie McMahon, Shane McMahon, and Triple H also posted about the news.
Last night’s scheduled SmackDown main event didn’t happen with AJ Styles unable to defend his title against James Ellsworth because of the ankle injury he suffered at TLC. The Miz defending the Intercontinental Championship against Dean Ambrose was the new main event, with the storyline between Ambrose and Ellsworth continuing as Ellsworth inadvertently cost Ambrose the match.
There was an angle with Heath Slater and Rhyno on last night’s Talking Smack with Rhyno walking out on Slater after blaming him for their recent losses.
Shinsuke Nakamura’s title win against Samoa Joe from last Saturday in Osaka airs on tonight’s episode of NXT.
USA Network is advertising next week as “WWE Week” with Raw, SmackDown, and Tribute to the Troops airing on successive nights.
Today is Dean Ambrose’s 31st birthday.
A video on WWE’s YouTube account looks at the history of the List of Jericho.
WWE is eyeing an expansion into China.
WWE is scouting Canadian Freestyle wrestling Olympic gold medalist Erica Wiebe.
PRO WRESTLING

Matt Riddle will no longer wrestle for AIW. The promotion posted the news on Twitter today: “We regret to inform you Matt Riddle will no longer be appearing on 12/30 or any dates going forward as he did not like how he was booked.” Riddle then tweeted: “Just wanna apologize to all of my @aiwrestling fans after texting with @JohnThorneAIW we decided my future with #aiw is over #kingofbros”
Colt Cabana reacted to Linda McMahon’s appointment as head of the Small Business Administration.
On Saturday, March 4th, Ring of Honor’s MANHATTAN MAYHEM returns to the Manhattan Center’s Hammerstein Ballroom. ROH also returns to Milwaukee on Friday April 28th at the Turner Hall Ballroom.
Hardcore legend The Sandman is still living the dream.
Here is an article looking at what TNA can do in 2017 to get back on the right track and why 2016 was such a whirlwind.
UFC

Dana White commented on the UFC firing Chuck Liddell and Matt Hughes: “The Chuck Liddell, Matt Hughes thing, during the ZUFFA era, those were my guys. I wanted them to retire, I respected these guys. They helped build this company when I was growing it and I told them both, I said, ‘Unless I drop dead or it comes to a position sometime where I’m not controlling how much money is being spent and all that stuff, you guys will get a paycheck until that day.’ And that day came. The thing with Matt and Chuck, it was a loyalty thing for me. It was my gift to them or being the guys that they were when me, Frank and Lorenzo, when it was our money.”
Donald Cerrone spoke about his involvement in the Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Association: “As far as the Association goes man, Georges and Tim called me and asked me to be part of it. I didn’t know I was sitting on a board. That kind of took me by surprise, sitting there like, oh wow. I spoke to Dana today on the phone. He’s coming to town, and we’re going to go out to dinner and talk. There’s a lot of things I think this sport needs, you know, retirement pension, health care, things I think we need.”
TJ Dillashaw said he has mixed emotions about Urijah Faber retiring.
Valentina Shevchenko vs. Julianna Pena will headline UFC’s January 28th show in Denver.
Ariel Helwani reports that Nick Diaz has reached an agreement with the Nevada Athletic Commission to participate in all fight-related activities again.
VARIETY
Combat Zone Wrestling’s largest event of the year, “Cage of Death”, takes place Saturday, December 10 at Flyers Skate Zone, 601 Laurel Oak RD in Voorhees, NJ! Help us in our annual collection for #ToysForTots! Make this the best year EVER!
FIST Combat on Friday night, 12/9 in Watsonville at Appleton Grill 730p doors.
FIST Combat on Saturday night, 12/10 in Santa Cruz at Garfield Park CC 8p doors.
You can still purchase tickets for this weekend’s EVOLVE 74 in Queens, NY and EVOLVE 75 in Melrose, MA at TicketFly.com. You have the option to print the tickets at home with TicketFly.
Barrie Wrestling: SuperBowl Bash Saturday, January 28, 2017 at 5 PM – 7:30 PM, 49 Ferris Ln, Barrie, ON L4M 2Y1, Canada.
We would like to wish a happy belated B-day week to the F4W Empire’s co-executive vice-president partial-coordinator of events sometimes, Eddie “from San Antonio” Loredo. It’s a very prestigious role.
Today in Professional Wrestling History (12/7): WWF In Your House: D-Generation X

CONTACT INFORMATION

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While returning to WWE television for the first time in over two months, John Cena once again set his sights on the WWE Championship on tonight’s year-end edition of SmackDown.

Cena opened the show with a promo and received a big reaction from the Chicago crowd. After taking some time to get to his point, Cena referenced tonight’s WWE title match between AJ Styles, Dolph Ziggler, and Baron Corbin. He went on to mention 2016 not being a great year for him, bringing up that he’s been criticized for being a part-timer and having one foot out the door.

But Cena said that he’s not leaving. He said that it’s not the new era, it’s the “my time is now era.” To conclude the promo, Cena challenged whoever wins tonight’s triple threat main event to a WWE Championship match at the Royal Rumble.

It seems likely that Cena’s challenge sets up him challenging Styles for the WWE title at the Royal Rumble on January 29th in San Antonio, Texas. Styles owns two singles wins over Cena on pay-per-view from earlier this year.

UPDATE: Styles successfully defended the WWE Championship against Ziggler and Corbin, leading Cena to come out and officially set up his title match with Styles at the Royal Rumble.

Dana White just announced today an Anderson Silva vs. Derek Brunson match for the February 11th show at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

The bout will take place at UFC 208, which is headlined by Holly Holm fighting Germaine de Randamie for the women’s featherweight title. The winner of that fight will be the division’s inaugural champion. The show is also scheduled to feature Jacare Souza vs. Tim Boetsch, Glover Teixeira vs. Jared Cannonier, and Travis Browne vs. Derrick Lewis.

The 41-year-old Silva hasn’t fought since last July and is coming off back-to-back losses to Michael Bisping and Daniel Cormier, the latter in a fight he took at the last minute with virtually no training as a replacement when Jon Jones failed a drug test and was pulled from UFC 200.

It’s a golden opportunity for Brunson to make a name after losing in a spectacular short fight with Robert Whittaker on November 26th in Melbourne, Australia.

A probe has been launched into the mysterious death of an Australian Instagram influencer, whose body was found aboard a Mexican billionaire’s luxury yacht in Greece over the weekend. 

Sinead McNamara, 20, had been working on the £108-million Mayan Queen IV superyacht for four months when she was discovered on Friday. 

The 92-metre yacht owned by Alberto Baillères, an 87-year-old mining magnate, has been ordered by the Hellenic Coast Guard to remain docked at the port of Argostoli, on the Ionian island of Kefalonia, while detectives interview crew members and forensic tests are carried out. 

An autopsy has been ordered to determine the cause of Ms McNamara’s death.  

Originally from Port Macquarie in New South Wales, Ms McNamara was a Sydney-based social media influencer who had been working on the vessel as it sailed around Europe over the summer.  

It is unclear what type of work Ms McNamara was doing on the yacht. She had been promoting swimwear, underwear and skincare brands to her 14,000 Instagram followers over the last year while travelling to some of the world’s most exclusive resorts. 

All members of the Baillères family on the trip had left the yacht on Tuesday and returned to Mexico, according to reports, and it had not been established on Sunday whether Mr Baillères was on the holiday. 

The coast guard confirmed that only crew members were left on board. 

The Ballières family owns one of the world’s largest silver mines and Mexico’s second largest mining company.

A crew member reportedly found Ms McNamara hanging from the rear deck of the boat in the early hours of Friday morning and alerted port authorities. 

Attempts were made to revive her at the scene, but she fell into a coma and died while being airlifted from the island hospital at Argostoli to a larger hospital in Athens. 

Her death prompted an outpouring of grief, with family, friends and fans commenting under her final post – a picture of a secluded, wild stretch of northeast Kefalonia coastline. 

“Thanks Sinead for photos of things I have not seen,” her grandmother wrote, while a friend congratulated her on “living the dream.”

Days before her death, Ms McNamara created a Facebook album of memories with her older sister, Lauren McNamara, saying “excitement was an understatement” for how much she was looking forward to seeing Lauren, who was scheduled to join her in Greece today.  

Her brother, Jake McNamara, described hearing about her death as "the worst news of my life".

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to the family as the investigation continues. 

THE ROUND-UP

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

WWE NXT results: Corey Graves says goodbye to NXT
NXT TV taping spoilers: Kassius Ohno sets his sights on what’s next
WWE advertising Brock Lesnar vs. Kevin Owens for MSG house show
SmackDown ratings get a big bump for post-Royal Rumble episode
Seth Rollins suffers an injury during his brawl with Samoa Joe on Raw
WWE SmackDown video highlights: Dean Ambrose vs. AJ Styles 

AUDIO

Wrestling Weekly: Rollins goes down, battle royal stories, keeping kayfabe 2/2
WOL: Raw ratings clarification, WrestleMania card with Dave Meltzer, more! 2/2
WOR: Rollins update, John Cena Mania match, NXT tapings, Rousey future, more! 2/2
F4D: Seth Rollins, Royal Rumble, Smackdown, Impact, more! 2/1

TNA IMPACT ON POP TV AT 8 P.M. EASTERN TIME

Bobby Lashley vs. Jeff Hardy for TNA title
Drew Galloway vs. Moose for the Grand championship
Ethan Carter III vs. Eli Drake

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 1/30/2017: Recapping the 2017 Royal Rumble 

Given the star power in the match, Randy Orton winning the 2017 Royal Rumble was always going to be underwhelming to some. It was only who he eliminated last that redeemed the moment to most who were disappointed. Orton capped off a solid Rumble match at the Alamodome by last eliminating Roman Reigns, who entered at #30 after interference from Braun Strowman cost him his shot at the Universal Championship earlier in the night… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 6, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Royal Rumble review, Ronda Rousey retired, more

An update on the lineups for WrestleMania, Fast Lane and Elimination Chamber, the direction of WWE and how they are getting there, the title situation and why the matches are taking place is the lead story in the new issue of the Observer.

Have a look at the situation with Seth Rollins and his injury, the current WrestleMania lineup, as well as how the next two PPVs will set up WrestleMania.

There is full coverage of the Royal Rumble, with a look at how everyone did, notes on Royal rumble records, match-by-match coverage with star ratings, poll results, and more.

This issue looks at the John Cena title win, examine how many world title reigns Ric Flair really had and the ones WWE pretends didn’t happen, ticket sales as compared to the 1997 show in the same building, problems with the setup and more.

Examine the probable retirement of Ronda Rousey and her legacy, both good and bad.

Inside has an update on the situation with Conor McGregor and UFC and WWE, as well as the proposed Mayweather fight and the impending battles over contracts that fighters and UFC are likely to be having.

There is full coverage of the San Antonio Takeover show, the NXT awards, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and business notes.

Coverage of the UFC on FOX show as well as examining what lessons can be learned from the ratings, and what’s next for the fighters, is inside.

Look at plans for the 2018 Royal Rumble weekend, Mick Foley update regarding his position as General Manager, Paul Levesque talks working with outside promoters and Matt Riddle, plus we look at Riddle’s pro wrestling background. Plus, also look at the directions planned for upcoming house shows, what types of talent WWE has been contacting for WrestleMania and tournaments, Finn Balor update, notes on this coming weekend’s house shows, plus coverage from the NXT & WWE weekend events, with match highlights and business notes from the shows.

Finally, check out the coverage of the first U.K. prime time live television wrestling event since 1968.

Subscribers click here to continue.

ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer, or by using PayPal directing funds to [email protected]. 
 
Rates in the United States are $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52. In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to [email protected]. For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52. If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.)

If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can choose one free classic issue, or two free classic issues with a 40-issue subscription.

WON BACK ISSUE: January 10, 2000 NJPW Tokyo Dome reviewed, 1999 in revenue for promotions, more 

The mixed promotional angle, the very thing that New Japan has specialized in for nearly three decades, looks back in the forefront as representatives from WCW (J.J. Dillon and Paul Orndorff) and RINGS (Akira Maeda) along with Nobuhiko Takada all met with New Japan management in conjunction with the company’s biggest show of the year 1/4 at the Tokyo Dome… Subscribers click here to continue.

THURSDAY NEWS UPDATE

THE ROUND-UP

(Image: @JJWilliamsWON)

The Latest from the F4W Staff

NEWS

SmackDown does third-best ratings number since brand split
WWE NXT results: Kassius Ohno returns to TV
NXT TV taping spoilers: Roode vs. Ohno; Finn Balor appears
WWE Raw ratings up slightly this week
WWE SmackDown video highlights: Main event ends in controversy
Zack Sabre Jr. debuting for NJPW at 45th anniversary show
WWE 205 Live results: Jack Gallagher vs. Tony Nese

AUDIO

WOL: Raw and Smackdown ratings, New Japan and ROH, Dave Meltzer, more! 2/23
WOR: Smackdown, NXT spoilers, 205 Live, death of Johnny K-9, more! 2/23
F4D: Smackdown, Impact, Total Divas, Tom’s pro-wrestling debut, more! 2/22
FREE WOL! Smackdown battle royal, women’s title change, news, tons more! 2/22
FREE B&V&C! Retro Raw and Nitro flashback from 19 years ago this week! 2/21

IMPACT TONIGHT AT 8 P.M. ON POP TV

Jessie Godderz vs Bram
Tyrus vs. Eli Drake
Bobby Lashley vs. Josh Barnett for TNA title
Wedding of Laurel Van Ness and Braxton Sutter

We’re looking for reports on today’s WWE house show Nurnberg, Germany and tomorrow’s show in Hannover to [email protected].

We’ll be doing polls on both Sunday and Monday’s ROH/New Japan shows at Korakuen Hall to [email protected].

FIGURE FOUR WEEKLY: 2/20/2017, Looking at pro wrestling’s steller start to 2017

While making judgments about a year less than two full months into it probably isn’t a good idea, it’s clear that 2017 is already on pace to surpass its predecessor in terms of match quality. That’s not entirely unexpected. The stellar in-ring work that defined professional wrestling in 2016 didn’t come out of nowhere. It was the result of there being more qualified workers, more opportunities for them to work, and a wider variety of promotions for them to work for than there have been in many years… Subscribers click here to continue.

WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: February 27, 2017, Massive Ivan Koloff bio, death of George “The Animal” Steele, tons more

A huge feature on the life and career of Ivan Koloff is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, which is available right now. Plus, there are also features on George Steele, Nicole Bass, Johnny K-9, Diamond Dallas Page and Teddy Long.

The Koloff story talks about the most famous match of the 1970s in the U.S., his win over Bruno Sammartino, as well as his loss to Pedro Morales in WWWF title matches, the birth of Ivan Koloff, his days as Red McNulty, his first match with Sammartino, how he got the Koloff gimmick and who he was named after. This issue also looks at his title run with Sammartino the first time in Pittsburgh and then the WWWF, the most one-sided trade in sports history, the return of Koloff for his title win, the angle done to cover Sammartino, and the two big nights in Madison Square Garden.

Have a look at the creation of Ivan Koloff in Quebec and how he first made his name as a major drawing card, and look at his run in Australia where Gary Hart managed him. Plus look at his days in the AWA, Hawaii, St. Louis, Georgia, Florida, the second WWWF run, the role as top heel for the opposition, the tag team with Ole Anderson, his feud with Dusty Rhodes, and the emergence of Nikita Koloff and the other Russians in the 80s.

Examine the career of George Steele, the life and times of Johnny K-9, the strange world of Nicole Bass, and the WWE Hall of Fame inductions of DDP and Teddy Long.

Click Here: Kangaroos Rugby League Jersey

Plus, details about the filming of “Fighting with My Family” after Raw and Smackdown this past week, notes on the movie, the phone calls to C.M. Punk in front of the fans, the Naomi injury, an update on Fast Lane, return of Finn Balor notes, a look at plans for a show after WrestleMania, the busy Raw brand schedule, WWE working with Indies on WWE Network update, WWE market value, most watched shows on WWE Network, plus details of all the WWE & NXT house shows over the past week along with business notes.

ORDERING INFO: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to Dave Meltzer, or by using PayPal directing funds to [email protected]. 
 
Rates in the United States are $13 for 4 issues, $32 for 12, $61 for 24, $101 for 40 and $131 for 52. In Canada and Mexico, rates are $14.50 for 4, $35 for 12, $67 for 24, $111 for 40 and $144 or 52. In Europe, you can get the fastest delivery and best rates by sending to [email protected]. For the rest of the world, rates are $16.50 for 4, $44 for 12, $85 for 24, $141 for 40 issues and $183 for 52. If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order (P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228), you can get $1 off in every price range.)

If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can choose one free classic issue, or two free classic issues with a 40-issue subscription.

WON BACK ISSUE: January 31, 2000, WCW departures, WWF Royal Rumble review, more 

The soap opera surrounding WCW and the group of wrestlers who vowed to stick together got even stranger over the past week, with the company mired in even more uncertainty and friends who stuck together breaking apart. WCW sent unconditional release letters to Chris Benoit, Dean Simon (Malenko), Carlos Ashenoff (Konnan), Troy Martin (Shane Douglas), Eddy Guerrero and Perry Satullo (Perry Saturn) on 1/19, thus cancelling the planned meeting Bill Busch had agreed two days later to have with the group that same day, and allowing all of them to start with Titan Sports on 2/1 provided they agreed not to say anything publicly disparaging about WCW and agreed not to sue WCW… Subscribers click here to continue.

THURSDAY NEWS UPDATE

Thanks everyone for the response to this week’s issue and the story on Ivan Koloff. 

The sexual assault trial for Jon (War Machine) Koppenhaver for his alleged attack and mutilation of former girlfriend and porn star Christy Mack in 2014 goes to trial on Monday. Jury selection begins at 1:30 p.m. Koppenhaver is facing 34 felony counts including attempted murder. 

Bellator filed a lawsuit yesterday to quash subpoenas that UFC asked for related to UFC’s defense in its antitrust case, looking for copies of all Bellator contracts with fighters and detailed financial records of the company. Bellator in the lawsuit said that releasing the information would be giving away trade secrets. Scott Coker said in court documents that Bellator was not a party to the lawsuit (the Cung Le, Jon Fitch, Nate Quarry antitrust suit against UFC) and should not have to produce confidential documents, because it would lead to gave harm to the company, saying it would give UFC a significant advantage that would negatively harm Bellator and stifle competition in the industry.

There was an interesting note in the Las Vegas Review-Journal earlier this week that betting on the Mayweather vs. McGregor fight, with Mayweather as the 25-to-1 favorite, has been nonexistent.

An article with Bruno Sammartino talking about George Steele and Ivan Koloff is here. (thanks to Chris Cruise) 

The WWE is booking Tyler Bate, Pete Dunne, Trent Seven, Wolfgang, Joseph Conners, T-Bone, Mark Andrews, James Drake, Dan Moloney Sean Gradwell, Saxon Huxley, Tucker and Jordan Devlin on its May tour of the U.K.

WWE
Finn Balor returned last night at the NXT tapings doing a run-in to save Shinsuke Nakamura from a double-team attack from Bobby Roode and Andrade Cien Almas. This was likely just done for the live house in Orlando. Balor said he wasn’t fully cleared, but he’s expected back within two weeks.
The Raw crew is currently in Germany, with today being the second of four days there.
Heidi Lovelace debuted at the NXT tapings using the name Ruby Riot. It looks like she’ll feud with Nikki Cross. 
The WWE Network sent out a survey asking how interested people were in each match at Fastlane, if they were going to watch Fastlane and their overall opinion of the lineup.
UFC
They announced a show on 6/17 in Kallang, Singapore at Singapore Indoor Stadium.
The UFC has added two more fight to the 3/4 show in Las Vegas. Albert Morales will face Andre Soukamthath, the CES bantamweight champion, debuting in UFC. Cynthia Calvillo debuts facing Amanda Cooper in a strawweight fight.
MISCELLANEOUS
An interview with Joe Koff of ROH is here.
Rob Terry & Kazushi Miyamoto won the NWA world tag team titles over Rob Conway & Matt Riviera earlier today in Tokyo. Road Warrior Animal was in Terry & Miyamoto’s corner while Bruce Tharpe was in the corner of the champions. The title change happened at a Diamond Star Wrestling show.
Road Warrior Animal and Rikishi make appearances for River City Wrestling on 3/10 in San Antonio at the Ratama Park Horse Race Track. Tatanka will also face The Barbarian on the show headlined by Rikishi vs. Michael Faith.
A story on the long buildup for the debut of Glacier in WCW and how it turned out is here.
MCW on 3/3 in Joppa, MD at the MCW Arena features Brian Cage vs. Lio Rush. They also run 3/11 in Hollywood, MD at the Volunteer Fire Department with Ryback as the headliner.
Shannon Moore is taking wrestling and appearance bookings through Bill Behrens at [email protected]. He is based in Orlando, FL. Silas Young is also available for bookings outside the U.S. and Ontario, based out of Milwaukee, at the same address. Other names listed are Chase Stevens our of Nashville, Sean Waltman (for appearances, he won’t be wrestling after April), Mike Posey, DDP, Kevin Nash, Drew Galloway, Tommy Dreamer, Scott Hall, Al Snow, Shane Helms, Christopher Daniels (outside U.S. & Ontario), Frankie Kazarian (outside U.S. & Ontario), Young Bucks (outside U.S. & Ontario), Jay Lethal (outside U.S. & Ontario), Ricochet, Matt Sydal and Tessa Blanchard.
Tommy Dreamer will be doing a seminar on 3/18 in Martselle, AL at the House of New South Wrestling. For more info you can call 256-684-5435.
Rosemary of TNA headlines on Sunday at 5 p.m. in East York, ONT at the Detroit Eatery at 1083 Pape Avenue.
CWE on 3/18 in Winnipeg at Rookie’s Sports Bar for the 2017 King of Transcona tournament. 
wXw from Sunday in Waldkraiburg, Germany: Absolute Andy b Hakeem Waqur, Robert Dreissker b Blaze, Michael Dante b Bobby Gunns, David Starr b Alexander James to keep the Shotgun title, Jurn Simmons b Chris Colen, Absolute Andy & Marius Al-Ani & Gunter Schmid b Axel Dieter Jr. & Timothy Thatcher & Walter. (thanks to Markus Gronemann)
WCWF on 5/11 in Yuba City, CA at the Yuba-Sutter Fairgrounds headlined by Nathan Brick vs. Reggie Bright.
Anthony Bennett, who was in the WWE cruiserweight tournament, has been added to the ECWA Super 8 lineup for the tournament on 4/29 in Woodbury Heights, NJ at the Community Center.
Superkick’d tomorrow night in Toronto at the Longboat Hall at the Great Hall.
PWA from Sunday in Calgary at the Century Casino before 300 fans: Cody & Brandi Rhodes b Michael Richard Blaze & Connie Lynn, Brett Moran b Brandn Van Danielson, Alexander Pryme & Shaun Moore b Millennial Rebels, Fury (Kenneth Anthony) b Fabirn Ribeiro-DQ, Andrew Hawks & Richie Rage b Duke Durrango & Chris Steele, Omen Gabriel b Sheik Shabaz (Gama Singh Jr.-)-DQ, Giselle b Michael Allen Richard Clark in an intergender match, Kenny Stryker kept the PWA Mayhem title over Frantico & Aiden Adams. (thanks to Ross Hart)
C4 Wrestling on 3/18 in Ottawa, ONT at the Vanier Columbus Club.
Rock Solid Wrestling on Saturday at 4 p.m. in Sudbury, ONT at the Chelsmford Valley District Composite School
EVOLVE has announced the Keith Lee trial series with matches on 2/24 in Joppa, MD against Zack Sabre Jr., 2/25 in Queens, NY against Tracy Williams, 3/30 in Orlando against Ricochet and 3/31 in Orlando against Donovan Dijak.
Absolute Intense Wrestling Girls Night Out on 3/11 in Cleveland at Our Lady of Mt Carmel with Shayna Baszler vs. Allysin Kay (Sienna) for the AIW women’s title, Gail Kim vs. Britt Baker, Sonya Strong vs Lufisto, Angeldust vs. Shotzi Blackheart, Veda Scott vs Penelope Ford, Ray Lyn vs. Faye Jackson and more.
CMLL from Tuesday night in Guadalajara: Divino & Gallo b Evola & Exterminador, Electrico & Fugaz & Shockercito b Mercurio & Pequeno Nitro & Relampago, Amapola & Dallys & Metalica b Vaquerita & Marcela & Silueta, Dragon Lee & Esfinge & Stuka Jr. b Bobby Villa & Hechicero & Polvora, Pierroth & Rush & Yoshitatsu b Atlantis & Diamante Azul & Valiente.
A group called Welterweight Wrestling debuts on 5/7 for shows with wrestlers only under 185 pounds. The show will take place in Cleveland. 
Legacy Fighting Alliance tomorrow night on AXS TV from Broomfield, CO with Marcus Edwards vs. Adam Townsend as the main event. 
FEW on 3/31 in Orlando at the Downtown Rec Complex with an all-women’s show with Santana Garrett, Lindsay Snow, Marti Bell, Rebel, Faye Jackson and more. The show is at 3 p.m. over Mania weekend.
Alpha 1 Wrestling on 3/5 in Hamilton, ONT featuring ACH, Kikutaro and Ethan Page.
An almost all-women’s show (one men’s match is on it) called Girls Gone Wrestling takes place on Saturday in Surrey, BC at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds Alice McKay Building with Nicole Matthews, Holidead, Malia Hosaka, Chelsea Green (Laurel Van Ness) and more. 
Chaotic Wrestling on Friday night in Woburn, MA at the Elks Hall with a main event of Elia Markorpolous vs JT Dunn vs Adam Booker vs. Christian Casanova.
Christopher Daniels talks his tenure in ROH, Samoa Joe and other topics here:

You’ve been wrestling for a long time and were with Ring of Honor at its inception. Do you feel like you’ve paid your dues, and a title reign is overdue?
I think I paid enough dues a long time ago. But circumstances are what they are, and sometimes matches don’t go the way you want them to go. Certainly going into the 15th Anniversary Show I feel like there’s a lot of momentum on my side right now. If the fans’ feelings are that it’s about time I’ve had the championship, I’m not going to argue with that. It remains to be seen what happens…

Have you been frustrated that you haven’t been elevated to the top position in ROH?
Not specifically frustrated. Things go the way they go. It’s not up to me to say this is a good direction or a bad direction. It’s just the way it was. All of us as pro wrestlers try to put ourselves out there as the best product we can be. It falls to people above us to decide that’s the best direction for the company to go…

Are you surprised that it took so long for Samoa Joe to wind up on WWE’s main roster?
Not so much surprised, I’m just happy that it finally happened. I feel like one of the reasons that it took so long is that they were waiting for the right moment… I’m certainly interested to see where this goes. Coming off the Royal Rumble to go toward WrestleMania, I would think that would mean Joe is in a prime position to have a high-profile match at his first WrestleMania.

TNA has been undergoing a massive overhaul in recent months with turnover and new ownership. Did you have the feeling that this was something that’s been on the cusp of happening for years and you’re surprised it took so long?
I can’t really comment on it with any sort of intelligence because all I know is the same thing that everyone else has seen and read. … I know when I left that I felt like there was some upheaval in management. But I couldn’t tell you everything that’s gone on. I’ve seen what everyone else has with the ratings and mishaps that have gone on.

On the comic book cover you look like a nefarious character. You’re robbing a bank and Kazarian is saying you must be stopped. What’s going on?
I don’t want to give too much away. I’m not 100 percent ready to retire, so am I looking to add a couple of zeros to the end of my bank account? You’ll have to pick up the book to find out exactly what’s going on. It’s worth picking up to check out.

Growing up, you’re either a DC Comics guy or a Marvel guy. Which were you?
I was Marvel, 100 percent. I grew up reading Marvel comics. The first comic that really got me hooked was Uncanny X-Men.

Pro Wrestling Tees is now carrying our latest line of F4W shirts. Support the Empire~! Grab yours today!

F4W / WO EMPIRE WRESTLEMANIA GROUP INFO

BUS INFO:

The Empire bus to WrestleMania will cost $50.00 and will be round trip from Rosen Inn at 9000 International Drive 32819 (a few blocks away from Wrestlcon). THERE ARE ONLY 5 SEATS LEFT!
The bus will leave at 4pm (time subject to change) for WrestleMania and will leave WrestleMania no later then one hour after the show. If you would like a seat email Ed at [email protected] or message him on the BOARD~! for Paypal payment instructions.

DINNER INFO:

WHAT: Dinner at Texas de Brazil
WHEN: Friday March 31st
WHERE: 5259 International Dr Ste F1, Orlando, FL 32819 at 5 p.m. (they may open at 4:30 for us)
WHO: All your best empire buddies, including BIG DAVE MELTZER
DETAILS: The cost of the dinner will be $68.00 which includes the dinner, salad bar, soft drinks and tea, and dessert, tax and tip. This is a pre pay dinner and you can send payment to paypal at [email protected] (please send as a gift to a friend). Payments must be made by March 24th (if you wait until after that, Ed will charge an extra $5.00 for being a pain).

Today in professional wrestling history (2/23): WWE Elimination Chamber 2014

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A court in Sweden ruled that a Palestinian man found guilty of throwing a Molotov cocktail at a synagogue cannot be deported to the Occupied Palestinian Territories, prompting a sharp rebuke from Israel.  

The Court of Appeal for Western Sweden ruled that Feras Alnadim’s “fundamental human rights” would be threatened because he would be at risk of reprisals. 

The court cited Israel’s “potential interest in the case” and “the insecure situation at the border and in the territory”. 

Alnadim, 22, was sentenced to two years in prison in June, as one of three men, two Palestinian and one Syrian, found guilty of firebombing a synagogue in Gothenburg on December 9.

Some 20 Jewish teenagers were celebrating together in the building when the firebomb was thrown, but no one was injured. The three men were identified from security camera footage and arrested shortly afterwards. 

In its judgement, the appeal court said that as the attack had taken place only a few days after Donald Trump, the US president, announced the US embassy’s move to Jerusalem, saying it was clearly “intended as a revenge attack against Israel”. 

It could also, it ruled, be considered “a serious political crime directed at other Jews”. 

“We are not a country that hunts people down at the airport and retaliates,” she said. “We are a democratic country with the rule of law and this verdict ignores that.”

Unlike the other two attackers, Alnadim has no right of residency in Sweden, as his asylum application had been rejected before he carried out the attack. In June, the court ruled that he should therefore be deported after completing his sentence. 

The Court of Appeal on Wednesday reversed this decision, citing Sweden’s law on foreign nationals, which specifies that no one should be deported if there is sufficient reason to believe that they would be in danger of “inhumane or humiliating treatment or punishment”. 

Ms Hochstetler was also critical of the way the verdict treated Alnadim’s claim that while he was opposed to Israel, he was not hostile to Jewish people. 

“Having that in the verdict is a legitimisation of violent antisemitism,” she said. “I think that if someone firebombs a synagogue then this shows that there is hostility towards Jews that has nothing to do with Israel.”