More About Me

Since the, "About Me" section of this blog is limited to a specific amount of characters, I decided to write a post that discusses more about what I have done in the pro-wrestling industry, beginning with when I first started in it and leading up to now.

Technically, I started back in the 1990s, contributing to, "Pro Wrestling Illustrated" and then, "Pro Wrestling Torch". In 1997, I contributed to The Official Website of the NWO. That same year, I briefly published my own newsletter, "The Wrestling Express".

In 1998, I taught myself how to design websites, and served as a consultant for various independent promotions. That next year, I worked as a website designer/maintainer for Dylan Summers (Necro Butcher) who was running the Texas-based Power Pro Wrestling Federation, and later was involved with Texas Outlaw Promotions.

During the period of 2000-2002, I was involved in many different projects at once. I was working as a website designer/publicist for talent, contributing to WCW.com, writing columns for independent promotions and the website of former WCW star The Stro, and writing for a variety of pro-wrestling media sites (including WrestlingObserver.com and PWTorch.com). In 2003, I began running my own website, World Wrestling Optimum, which consisted of news, articles, and interviews.

In 2004, I started working for the Michigan-based Ultimate Championship Wrestling as a publicist/columnist. They were an affiliate of American Wrestling Association Superstars Of Wrestling, and I soon became the publicist/columnist of the main governing body of AWA as well. During my time working for UCW, I played a major role in bringing in new talent, due to over the years my having had come into contact with many talents being underused and going unnoticed in the industry. Also, attendance increased by a significant amount.

In 2005, I started doing a column for 3PW. With DVDs sold nationwide, they had the potential to become much bigger than they already were at the time, and were very open to my ideas. I pushed for many changes behind-the-scenes. I had encouraged management to improve the production quality of their DVDs, which led to them dealing with a different production company. 3PW management had planned on waiting for its fan base to increase before getting TV for 3PW. I explained how getting TV for 3PW is what would increase its fan base, and I was then given the green light to find networks that were interested. Two networks were very interested, and I encouraged 3PW management to meet with them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the owner of the company instead opted to shut 3PW down, due to losing interest. Working for 3PW put me in connection with the UK-based 1PW, who I worked as a columnist for.

After 3PW shut down, I began working as a publicist for independent promotions, including CHIKARA. I also worked as a columnist for CZW. Interestingly though, it was 2006 at this point yet I was still most recognized for the work that I had done for 3PW and AWA/UCW.

In 2007 I started working as a columnist for XCW, a promotion that was seen nationally on MAVTV, had a national DVD deal, and also had PPV events. Working for a promotion of national status was my biggest achievement at that point, and two years later I reached a bigger achievement- Big Japan Pro-Wrestling. Along with working for them as a columnist and an Administrator for their Facebook page, I helped bring Big Japan Pro-Wrestling together with Combat Zone Wrestling to form a working relationship after a previous working relationship between the two promotions had fallen apart. This new working relationship led to Big Japan Pro-Wrestling having its first event in the United States.

In October 2009 I assisted publicity & promotions company MGM Management with the HULKAMANIA- Let the Battle Begin tour by distributing their press release to pro-wrestling news sites that are popular with Australian fans, and conducting an interview with Solofa Fatu Jr. (better known as, "Rikishi"). Also, in 2012 I wrote a number of columns for Women Superstars United.

In May 2018 I did social media for Great North Wrestling.

In April and May 2021, I did blogging and social media for Kyushu Pro Wrestling. During that time, the promotion gained 220 new subscribers and 52,746 new views on its official YouTube channel.

Recently, I have done blogging and social media for Yanagase Pro Wrestling. Since the time I began writing for them, Yanagase Pro Wrestling has their anniversary events at a venue where they have had 300 fans. All previous Yanagase Pro Wrestling events took place at a 50-seat venue.

I have also recently written for the China-based Middle Kingdom Wrestling in a Publicist capacity. My work is an essential piece in the multilingual activation, with it being adapted to traditional Chinese for readers in China. I am the first native English writer who has written for a Chinese wrestling organization in history.

In 2019 I began writing for Michinoku Pro Wrestling, in charge of international wrestling. Since the time that I began writing for them, Michinoku Pro stopped choosing Shin-Kiba 1st Ring for its Tokyo events and began focusing on the much larger Korakuen Hall for its Tokyo appearances. The Korakuen Hall is known as a place where many historical moments in the Japanese pro-wrestling scene have occurred. It's to Japan what Madison Square Garden is to the pro-wrestling scene in the United States. Michinoku Pro had a sellout, standing-room-only event on December 13, 2019 at the Korakuen Hall. The event had an attendance of 1,890. That was the highest reported attendance at the Korakuen Hall to date for a pro-wrestling event since April 2015.

I am open to new writing opportunities, from event previews & results reports to wrestler spotlights & social media. I offer sponsored content and an international audience. This blog is now included in Google News, which has over 11 million visits every day, giving your product the opportunity to be promoted in front of millions. Check out my samples and see how I can take your brand to the next level:
https://harold-williams.com/2012/05/samples-of-my-work.html


info@harold-williams.com

Google has created a knowledge panel about me and my work: https://g.co/kgs/x4pMxp1

If you run a small wrestling promotion or wrestling news website and are looking to take your content to the next level in an affordable way- I am offering affordable rates starting at $110 / ¥16,000 per blog post/article.

I graduated from university with a major in Business and a minor in Computer Applications, which makes me an asset not only as a writer but in a business and technological capacity as well.

I am also a Technical Writer specializing in AI, VR, AR, NFTs, 5G, Web3, and the metaverse in the context of wrestling-and a subject matter expert in the business side of Japan's MMA scene and other sports.

The Ethical Implications of AI in Wrestling

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized numerous industries, and the world of professional wrestling is no exception, as AI rapidly becomes an essential part of the industry. It offers new tools for fan engagement and training- by analyzing vast amounts of data, AI can personalize fan experiences, and optimize wrestler performance. However, the integration of AI also raises significant ethical concerns that must be carefully considered.

One of the primary ethical implications of AI in wrestling is the potential for privacy violations. AI systems often require very large amounts of data to function effectively. This data can include personal information about wrestlers, such as their health records, training routines, and even their personal lives. If this data is mishandled or falls into the wrong hands, it could have serious outcomes for the wrestlers involved.

Another ethical concern is the potential for AI to displace human jobs within the wrestling industry. As AI technology becomes more advanced, it is possible that it could automate tasks traditionally performed by human workers, such as simulating matches for training or fan engagement, managing social media accounts, predicting ticket sales, doing commentary, creating match ideas, writing storylines, booking matches, or even creating wrestling characters. This could lead to job losses and economic hardship for those working in the industry. And on a side note, AI could never truly replace writers, bookers, and producers. Relying on AI could lead to predictable matches and spots, causing fans to become bored and dissatisfied with the product. While AI can be a valuable tool, it is important to understand that human creativity and intuition remain essential for creating compelling storylines and engaging fans. Human writers can craft complex storylines that resonate with audiences, while human bookers can create interesting characters that fans connect with.

It should also be noted that wrestlers bring their own unique styles, charisma, and athleticism to the ring, which cannot be duplicated by AI. Wrestling is about athleticism, but it's also about showmanship, storytelling, human connection, action, and drama. AI can crunch numbers and generate algorithms better than people, but it can't replicate the chemistry of two professional wrestlers who are at the top of their games as they make magic in the ring, the impressive way that a talented performer quickly recovers from a botched spot, or the true emotion displayed when a wrestler wins a championship. AI is able to assist with tasks like analyzing data, but it cannot replicate the human touch that makes wrestling as special as it is.

AI systems are only as good as the data they are trained on. If that data is biased, then the AI system will also be biased. This could lead to unfair treatment of wrestlers based on factors such as race, gender, or other demographic characteristics. For example, an AI system trained on historical wrestling data that is dominated by wrestlers of a specific race and gender may be more likely to favor wrestlers of that race and gender in future simulations. Also, AI bias can pose significant risks in the industry. For example, facial recognition systems may misidentify people of color, hiring algorithms can be biased against women, and language models can perpetuate harmful stereotypes. In wrestling, an AI system trained on a dataset of wrestlers predominantly of a specific race and gender may be more likely to generate character ideas that conform to those stereotypes. These examples illustrate the importance of ensuring that AI systems are developed and used in a fair and unbiased manner. Wrestling companies can reduce AI bias by ensuring diverse training data, conducting regular audits, being transparent about AI use, maintaining human oversight, and developing ethical guidelines. These strategies can help ensure that AI is used ethically and responsibly in the industry.

The ethical implications of AI in wrestling are complex and complicated. While AI offers many potential benefits to the industry, it is necessary to approach its integration with caution and consideration. By addressing these ethical concerns in advance, the wrestling industry can ensure that AI is used in a way that benefits both fans and wrestlers alike.

As the use of AI in wrestling continues to grow, it is mandatory that the industry engages in open and honest discussions about the ethical implications of this technology. By doing so, we can help to guarantee that AI is used responsibly and for the advancement of the industry. Wrestling organizations can prioritize ethical considerations in their AI initiatives by conducting ethical impact assessments, involving stakeholders, and staying informed about AI developments. This approach can help ensure that AI is used in a way that benefits the industry and avoids negative consequences.

While focusing on the ethical concerns, it's important to acknowledge the potential benefits of AI in wrestling. It offers numerous potential benefits to the industry, including improved wrestler safety, enhanced fan engagement, and streamlined operations. For example, AI can analyze match data to identify potential risks and injuries, and it can personalize fan experiences by recommending matches or events based on their preferences. Additionally, AI can automate tasks such as ticket sales and merchandise management, freeing up human resources for other tasks. By leveraging AI, wrestling organizations can increase efficiency, enhance wrestler safety, and improve the overall fan experience. However, the collection and use of fan data to personalize experiences can raise privacy concerns. Fans may not be aware of the extent of data being collected about them or how it is being used. There is a risk of data sharing and data breaches, which could lead to the exposure of sensitive fan information. To lessen these risks, wrestling organizations should be clear about their data collection practices, obtain definite consent from fans, and implement powerful security measures to protect fan data.

As AI is used in wrestling long-term, the implications could be across the board, with notable changes in the nature of the industry and altered fan-wrestler relationships. For example, excessive reliance on AI could lead to a decline in creativity and unpredictability, while AI could shift the focus of wrestling away from in-ring action and storytelling. Also, while AI could create more personalized fan experiences, it might also limit exposure to different perspectives. New forms of fan-wrestler interaction could happen because of AI, but privacy and authenticity concerns may arise.

The psychological impact of AI on wrestling can be noteworthy for both wrestlers and fans. For wrestlers, AI-powered analytics and simulations could create increased pressure to perform, leading to anxiety and burnout. Additionally, AI-generated content may lead to a loss of individuality and raise ethical concerns regarding the use of AI to make decisions about a wrestler's career or compensation. For fans, AI-generated content may be less able to evoke emotional responses and could lead them to stop caring about the product. Ethical concerns also arise regarding the use of AI to collect and analyze fan data.

It is important to carefully consider psychological implications and potential long-term effects, then proactively address any negative consequences to make sure that AI is used in a way that benefits both fans and wrestlers, as well as take steps to alleviate any undesirable results that could still happen. This is why a regulatory framework is essential to govern the use of AI in wrestling and ensure that ethical standards are met. Such a framework could include creating oversight bodies, implementing enforcement mechanisms, and encouraging international cooperation. By doing so, the wrestling industry can create a more predictable and ethical environment for the use of AI, protecting the interests of fans, wrestlers, and other stakeholders.

Along with potential negatives of long-term use of AI in wrestling it could also lead the creation of new forms of wrestling entertainment, such as interactive experiences or virtual reality simulations. This could result in a new diversification of the industry and attract new audiences.

AI can also have a meaningful impact on the business side of wrestling in the industry's current form. For example, AI can be used to dynamically adjust ticket prices and optimize merchandise sales. By using AI, wrestling organizations can improve their business operations, increase revenue, and better meet the needs of their fans.

AI can play a valuable role in talent development in wrestling as well. By analyzing performance data and identifying potential risks, AI can help organizations improve their talent development processes, and ensure that wrestlers have the resources and support they need to succeed.

[Michinoku Pro] Ticket Information for Michinoku Pro's 11/16/24 event in Yahaba Town!

Join Michinoku Pro on November 16th (6:00 PM start time) at Yahaba Town Citizens General Gymnasium in Yahaba Town, Iwate! You can read a preview of the event here.

Tickets are available at Lawson, Ticket Pia, e +, and via Michinoku Pro Wrestling Telephone Reservation- 019 (687) 2431.

[The Deck] Motor City Machine Guns to Appear in WWE?

Are the Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin), one of the greatest tag teams of all time, going to appear in WWE? In my article on The Deck, I analyze a recent teaser than was shown on WWE SmackDown that appears to indicate this. Click here to read the article!: https://thedeck.news/motor-city-machine-guns-to-appear-in-wwe/

How Web3 Will Mark a New Era for Wrestling Promoters and Wrestlers

Web3 is a decentralized internet that offers groundbreaking potential for the wrestling industry. By leveraging blockchain technology, promoters and wrestlers can benefit from increased transparency, efficiency, control over their careers, and financial opportunities. This new model can create a more sustainable environment for all stakeholders, along with creating new revenue streams and driving innovation.

Web3 can enable smart contracts for wrestler contracts, ensuring fair and transparent terms. These contracts can be automatically executed, reducing the risk of disputes and delays. Also, blockchain technology can provide a transparent record of payments and transactions, enhancing trust and accountability.

Promoters can explore innovative revenue-sharing models based on blockchain, allowing wrestlers to participate directly in the financial success of their matches and events. For example, wrestlers could receive a percentage of ticket sales or merchandise revenue based on their performance or popularity. The more money the wrestler brings in, the more money they will make. This would motivate the wrestler to put in more effort, improve their skills, and strive for more memorable matches.

Wrestlers can use crowdfunding platforms built on Web3 to raise funds for their own projects, such as merchandise, independent events that they produce themselves, or training. This can empower wrestlers to take control of their careers and pursue their passions without relying solely on traditional funding sources.

Wrestlers can establish their digital identities on the blockchain, giving them greater control over their personal and professional information. This can help protect their brand, prevent unauthorized use of their likeness, and facilitate licensing deals.

Wrestlers can directly sell their merchandise and manage licensing agreements through decentralized marketplaces, reducing the need for a middleman. This can increase their revenue and give them more control over their brand.

Web3 can provide tools for wrestlers to track their performance metrics, build their brand, and connect with fans directly. For example, wrestlers could use blockchain-based platforms to create digital collectibles, engage with fans through social media, or analyze their match data. The metaverse also offers unique opportunities for wrestlers to relate with fans on a deeper level. Wrestlers could host virtual meet-and-greets, offer personalized training sessions, and release exclusive merchandise within the metaverse. By utilizing these interactive features, wrestlers can create memorable experiences for their fans and foster stronger connections with their fanbase.

Of course, along with the promising potential of Web3, there are also challenges to address. Implementing Web3 solutions can be complex and require specialized knowledge. Ensuring that Web3 applications can handle the large number of transactions and users in the wrestling industry is a significant challenge. Also, the regulatory environment for Web3 is still evolving, and promoters and wrestlers must navigate potential legal and compliance issues.

The successful implementation of Web3 in wrestling requires overcoming technical challenges such as scalability and interoperability. Additionally, the evolving regulatory landscape presents uncertainties for promotions navigating legal requirements. To address these challenges, the industry can explore scalable blockchain solutions, foster interoperability, and stay informed about regulatory developments. By addressing these issues in advance, wrestling promotions can harness the full potential of Web3 while mitigating risks and ensuring a sustainable future.

Wrestling promotions must also address in advance challenges such as as hate speech, harassment, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content, in order to ensure a positive and inclusive environment within the wrestling metaverse, a digital realm where virtual worlds converge and interact. By implementing powerful moderation systems, clear community guidelines, and educational campaigns, promotions can create a safe and welcoming space for all fans. Also, addressing discrimination and bias through inclusive guidelines and initiatives is crucial for fostering a diverse and welcoming community within the metaverse.

Web3 offers a groundbreaking potential for the wrestling industry, empowering promoters and wrestlers with greater control, transparency, and financial opportunities. By addressing the challenges and embracing the opportunities presented by this new technology, the wrestling industry can create a more sustainable environment for all stakeholders. This potential is exiting, as Web3 can mark a new era of innovation and opportunity for the industry.

News: AJ Styles Injured! Get the Latest Updates on The Deck

AJ Styles is one of the most popular and talented wrestlers in the world, and if you are looking for information regarding his recent injury and potential recovery timeline, you can find it in my article on The Deck. I go into detail regarding the specifics and cause of the injury, potential treatment options, and I also take a look at Styles' future. Click here to read the article!: https://thedeck.news/update-on-aj-styles-injury-and-a-look-at-his-future/

The Metaverse and Wrestling

The metaverse, a digital realm where virtual worlds converge and interact, is rapidly becoming a reality. Its potential to revolutionize various industries, including entertainment, has captured the imagination of many. And wrestling, with its exciting action and passionate fanbase, is a natural fit for the immersive experiences the metaverse can offer. It will be a groundbreaking opportunity for the wrestling industry to redefine fan experiences, enhance training, create new revenue streams, and more. By leveraging technology, wrestling promotions can connect with fans in new ways and drive innovation within the industry.

The metaverse could provide fans with unprecedented access to events and their favorite wrestlers. Imagine being able to attend a virtual wrestling match from the comfort of your own home, feeling the excitement and energy of the crowd. Fans could also participate in virtual meet-and-greets.

Beyond the individual fan experience, a wrestling metaverse could foster a stronger sense of community among fans by providing dedicated spaces for discussion, virtual fan clubs, and role-playing games. Social gatherings such as watch parties and live events could create opportunities for fans to connect and share experiences, and collaborative features like fan-created content and community-driven initiatives could empower fans to contribute to the metaverse and feel a greater sense of ownership and involvement.

Wrestlers could use the metaverse to train in a safe and controlled environment as they perfect techniques. Also, the metaverse could be used to create virtual arenas for wrestlers to experiment with new styles, characters, and entrances, with advanced computer graphics and artificial intelligence being used to create a realistic and immersive experience. Although it would not 100% be the same as the energy and excitement of a live audience, it would be a powerful tool that could capture a similar, motivating simulation.

Virtual arenas could also provide customizable environments and immersive crowd experiences, enabling wrestling promotions to host global events that cater to fans from all over the world. And the metaverse could also offer unique training opportunities for wrestlers, such as personalized drills and AI-powered training partners. These are just a couple of examples of how the metaverse could change the way wrestling is experienced and produced.

Wrestling could seamlessly integrate with the world of esports and gaming. Fans could compete against each other in virtual wrestling matches, participate in tournaments and interactive storylines, and even create their own custom characters or become virtual wrestlers themselves. By offering these interactive features, wrestling promotions can create a more immersive and personalized experience for fans, fostering a deeper connection to the business and its characters.

Successful metaverse implementations in gaming (Fortnite and Roblox), social media (Horizon Worlds), retail (Gucci Garden), and education (Spatial) demonstrate the potential for this technology to create immersive and appealing experiences. By drawing inspiration from these examples, the wrestling industry can explore innovative ways to leverage the metaverse to enhance fan experiences, generate new revenue streams, and drive growth.





Other revenue streams that can be generated are selling digital collectibles, partnering with brands for sponsored experiences, and offering paid access to exclusive content.

However, it should be noted the current state of technology may limit the level of immersion and realism that can be achieved in the metaverse. Also, it should be ensured that the metaverse will be accessible to all fans, regardless of their technical skills or financial resources. And issues such as safety and privacy need to be addressed to create a positive and inclusive experience.

Protecting fan data is crucial in the metaverse to ensure privacy and build trust. Wrestling promotions must implement strong data security measures to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and the misuse of personal information. Also, transparent data privacy policies should be communicated to fans, outlining how their data is collected, used, and protected. By prioritizing data privacy, wrestling promotions can create a safe and secure environment for fans to enjoy the metaverse.

It is also necessary for wrestling promotions to proactively address challenges such as hate speech, harassment, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content in the metaverse. Powerful moderation systems, clear community guidelines, and educational campaigns can help promotions create a friendly and protected space for all fans. Furthermore, addressing discrimination and bias through inclusive guidelines and initiatives is significant for fostering a diverse and warm community within the metaverse.

In addition, wrestling promotions must make sure that the metaverse is accessible to all fans. This includes implementing features that accommodate fans with disabilities, such as closed captions, audio descriptions, and customizable controls. Also, efforts should be made to bridge the digital divide by providing affordable access to metaverse technology and offering training or support for those who may be new to virtual environments. By focusing on accessibility, wrestling promotions will create a metaverse that welcomes and includes fans of all backgrounds.

While the metaverse can offer unique and engaging experiences, it's important to recognize that live wrestling events have their own irreplaceable appeal. The enthusiasm of the crowd, the social experience of attending a live event with friends and family, being in a venue with people who love the entertainment value of professional wrestling as much as you do, and the opportunity to see your favorite wrestlers perform in person are factors that cannot be fully duplicated in a virtual environment. Ultimately, the metaverse and traditional live events can coexist, with each offering distinct advantages to fans. The metaverse can provide a complementary experience, offering unique content, virtual interactions, and global accessibility, while live events continue to offer the unmatched emotion and passion of a live crowd.

The metaverse is an opportunity for the wrestling industry to innovate and connect with fans in new and exciting ways. By embracing the potential of this technology as the metaverse continues to develop, it is likely that we will see even more groundbreaking applications in the world of wrestling as it evolves.