Morning Daily News Update: May 13, 2026 – Barry Blaustein, Beyond The Mat Director, Dies At 71

Morning everyone!

It’s Wednesday! And it’s time for the Morning Daily News Update!

We’ve also got some new blog posts:

Phrederic has reviewed AJPW: Champion Carnival from April 18
Niz reviewed last night’s episode of WWE NXT

“Beyond The Mat” Director Barry Blaustein Dies At 71

Barry Blaustein has died at the age of 71 following battles with Parkinson’s disease and stage four pancreatic cancer. Blaustein was best known in wrestling for directing the 1999 documentary Beyond the Mat, which followed the lives and careers of wrestlers including Mick Foley, Terry Funk, and Jake Roberts. The film gained attention for its behind-the-scenes look at the wrestling business, particularly Foley’s brutal Royal Rumble 1999 match with The Rock. Although WWE initially cooperated with filming, Vince McMahon reportedly disliked the final version and distanced the company from its release.

Hulk Hogan’s Former Accountant Indicted On Embezzlement Charges

Hulk Hogan’s former accountant has been indicted on multiple wire fraud charges after allegedly embezzling nearly $900,000 from a “public figure” client between 2017 and 2021. TMZ Sports reported that Melissia Gauthreaux worked for Hogan during that period, although authorities have not officially identified the victim. Federal prosecutors claim Gauthreaux used her accounting business and access to the client’s bank accounts to remove $894,274.26 without consent. She faces six wire fraud charges, each carrying a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in prison if convicted. Hogan passed away in July 2025 at the age of 71.

Stephanie Vaquer To Appeal El Cuatrero’s Sentencing

Stephanie Vaquer’s former partner, Rogelio “El Cuatrero” Reyes, has reportedly been sentenced to 12 years and 8 months in prison after being found guilty of attempted femicide and domestic violence in Mexico. Reyes, who has already spent two years in prison awaiting sentencing, could potentially seek a reduced sentence based on good behaviour, although Vaquer’s legal team is reportedly appealing for a longer term. Vaquer originally accused Reyes of assaulting and strangling her at her home, and he was found guilty on both charges on May 5.

London Mayor’s Office Addresses Speculation About The City Hosting WWE WrestleMania In 2028

The Mayor of London’s office has confirmed there are currently no specific negotiations underway to bring WrestleMania to the city in 2028, despite ongoing general discussions with WWE. A spokesperson stated that Mayor Sadiq Khan remains interested in attracting major WWE events to London, but no formal WrestleMania 2028 bid is currently in progress. Nashville is reportedly further along in discussions with WWE regarding a future WrestleMania, while Ireland has also recently emerged as a potential long-term candidate. WrestleMania 43 is currently scheduled for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2027.