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

Could AI Replace Wrestling Promoters?

A wrestling promoter's responsibilities range from organizing shows, and overseeing advertising (where working with a skilled wrestling writer can be very beneficial), ticket distribution, and venue preparation. A promoter also shapes the overall style of the wrestling promotion. But what if all of that control shifted from human hands to artificial intelligence? Could AI algorithms one day replace wrestling promoters?

The idea might seem impossible, but the increasing sophistication of AI in various creative fields raises some interesting questions. AI is already being used in music composition, scriptwriting, and video game development. In fact, in 2023, Colombian rum brand Dictador made an AI robot the CEO of the company. Could the same principles be applied to professional wrestling?



AI could be used to scout and evaluate new talent, identify potential breakout stars, and even manage wrestler schedules and contracts. In a marketing and promotion capacity, AI could analyze market trends, identify target audiences, and create targeted marketing campaigns to promote wrestling events and merchandise.

Also, with an AI pro-wrestling promoter at the helm, efficiency would increase. AI could automate many of the time-consuming tasks involved in promotion, freeing up the human promoter to focus on other aspects of the business.

However, along with the benefits of an AI wrestling promoter running a promotion, there would also be drawbacks. Professional wrestling is a business, and a business is an art form- planning and strategy is used to succeed, like how a painter uses paint and canvas to create a masterpiece. The passion, emotion, and understanding of human psychology that a human promoter can bring to the table and create that art cannot be replicated with AI.

Also, while AI can generate new content based on existing data, it would struggle to create compelling storylines and promote wrestling events effectively, both which require creativity. And when it comes to making good creative decisions, industry experience and understanding crowd psychology are vital. Also, in order for a story to resonate with fans, making an emotional connection with fans is necessary,

If AI pro-wrestling promoters ever exist, many ethical concerns would be raised- Who is responsible if an AI-generated storyline is offensive or harmful? How is it verified that AI is used morally in a wrestling promotion?

And the most important concern is the potential for job displacement. If AI performs the responsibilities of a pro-wrestling promoter, what happens to the human promoters who currently hold those positions? In general, it's safe to assume that there will be an impact of AI on wrestling jobs in the future.

Meanwhile, keep in mind that there will be times that the impact of AI on wrestling jobs will lead to new opportunities. For example, AI could create new job opportunities in areas like managing and maintaining AI systems.

AI is already being used in the movie industry to create more realistic and believable special effects. For example, AI reportedly was used to generate the realistic appearance of the dinosaurs in Jurassic World, and was used to create the de-aged versions of Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci in The Irishman.

In the future, AI will likely play a large role in many aspects of the pro-wrestling industry, from streaming, to creating the next wrestling superstars, to live events, to broadcasting, to even training and performance. Therefore, it's reasonable to expect it to be involved in the management of a wrestling company as well.

However, it's very unlikely that AI will completely replace human promoters. Instead, it's possible that AI could become a valuable tool, assisting with various tasks and providing data-driven insights. The future of management in wrestling might involve a combined approach, where humans and AI work together to create a good product in the best possible working environment. If you're looking for someone with a deep understanding of both the wrestling industry and technology to help your promotion navigate this exciting new era, I'd love to connect.

Wrestling Against Bullying: Outside and Inside of the Ring

Professional wrestling is known for its larger-than-life personas, thrilling athleticism, and drama. But beyond the spectacle, wrestling has also become a powerful force for positive social change, particularly in the fight against bullying. Several initiatives, from national partnerships to local events, demonstrate the commitment of the wrestling world to creating a safer and more cooperative environment for young people. In this post, I will spotlight two of them.

WWE and Boys & Girls Clubs of America: Be a STAR

In 2016, WWE and Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) began a multi-year national partnership to empower youth across the country. This collaboration has led to numerous programs, including the Be a STAR (Show Tolerance and Respect) bully prevention program.

Be a STAR was created with the goal of promoting positive behaviour and preventing bullying by providing resources and education to young people. WWE Superstars, due to being seen as role models by many young fans, were quickly utilized as a key part of the initiative. WWE Superstars visited Boys & Girls Club locations nationwide, offering a unique opportunity for young people to connect and interact with their heroes and learn about the importance of respect, tolerance, and standing up to bullying, as the Superstars share their personal stories and provide valuable resources for individual clubs. Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods, Naomi, and Titus O’Neil have even been inducted into the Boys & Girls Club Hall of Fame, highlighting the dedication that they have shown to the cause.

Other WWE Superstars, like Sheamus, have also been vocal advocates against bullying. In 2011, Sheamus visited a school in Bridgeport, Connecticut to spread awareness about the issue.

Yanagase Pro Wrestling: Eliminating Bullying and Creating Energy

On a local level, Yanagase Pro Wrestling (YPW), based in Gifu, Japan, has been making a significant impact on its community for 17 years with its annual "Eliminating Bullying and Creating Energy" event. YPW events are a source of local pride, drawing fans from all walks of life to cheer on wrestlers from Gifu and surrounding areas. The promotion not only provides a platform for local talent but also contributes to local businesses and tourism by attracting fans from across the Chubu and Kansai regions.

The "Eliminating Bullying and Creating Energy" event is a testament to Yanagase Pro Wrestling's commitment to social responsibility. By using the excitement and drama of professional wrestling, the event raises awareness about the important issue of bullying. It demonstrates how wrestling can be more than just entertainment; it can be a powerful tool for social change and positive community impact.

These initiatives, while different in scale, share a common goal: to empower young people to stand up against bullying. Whether through national partnerships like Be a STAR or local events like those held by Yanagase Pro Wrestling, the wrestling world is demonstrating its commitment to creating a safer and more supportive environment both inside and outside the ring.

How AI is Fighting Online Harassment of Wrestlers

Feeling the energy of the crowd, thriving in the spotlight, and the connection with fans- these are some of the positives of being a professional wrestler. However, for many performers, the online world can be a very different story. Social media, while offering a platform for engagement, has also become a breeding ground for online abuse. And the more successful they are, the more likely that the wrestler is a target, being that there are people who feel envious or resentful of the success of others. Thankfully, artificial intelligence is making the save for wrestlers.

Wrestlers, like many public figures, are often victims of a constant stream of negativity online. Examples are racist or sexist remarks directed at their character or personal life, threats of violence or physical harm, and personal attacks on the wrestler's appearance, family, or personal relationships. This online abuse can have an overwhelming impact on wrestlers' careers, mental health, and well-being.

The devastating consequences of online harassment are tragically demonstrated by the situation of Hana Kimura, a Japanese professional wrestler who took her own life in 2020 after experiencing a never-ending campaign of cyberbullying. Her story is a reminder of the potential impact of online abuse and the urgent need for effective solutions.

Artificial intelligence defends against online harassment in a number of ways. It can scan very large amounts of text, images, and videos on social media platforms, identifying and flagging potentially harmful content, using natural language processing (NLP) to understand the context and meaning of words that allows it to detect sly forms of abuse that might be missed by human moderators. While social media companies rarely make public the specifics of their AI moderation systems, it's widely known that they are heavily reliant on them. These systems are used to filter out spam and bot accounts, detect and remove hate speech, and prioritize human review.

Some AI systems can predict potential harassment before it happens by analyzing user behavior and recognizing patterns associated with abusive language, which allows platforms to take proactive steps to prevent harassment from increasing. AI can analyze the overall attitude of online conversations, identifying trends and patterns of negativity directed at specific wrestlers, and this information can be used to understand the scope of the problem and develop targeted interventions. Also, modern AI is getting better at understanding context, sarcasm, and coded language, which is key in detecting online harassment- for example, a simple word might be harmless in one context but strongly offensive in another, and AI is improving at making these distinctions.

AI represents a significant step forward in the fight against online harassment. As its technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more sophisticated tools being developed to protect wrestlers and other individuals from online abuse.

While AI is helping on the technical side, fans also have a major role to play. If they see someone being harassed online, fans should report it to the platform. They should spread positive messages and support their favorite wrestlers. Fans should also avoid responding to or engaging with abusive comments from trolls in defense of the wrestler, as this usually adds fuel to the situation. In addition, they should support positive initiatives and campaigns. Responsible online behavior would help create a safer and more beneficial environment for wrestlers and everyone else.

Meanwhile, beyond powerful AI solutions and responsible fan behavior, wrestlers themselves can take preventative steps to lessen the extent of online harassment. This includes utilizing platform tools like blocking, muting, filtering, reporting, and adjusting privacy settings to manage their online presence and limit unwanted interactions.

It's important for wrestlers to set clear boundaries between their public and private lives online, avoid engaging with trolls, and, while continuing to promote themselves on social media, prioritize their mental health by taking breaks from social media when necessary. Seeking support from trusted individuals, professional help, or support organizations can provide valuable coping mechanisms. In severe cases involving threats, consulting legal professionals is advised.

Furthermore, wrestlers can leverage their platform to advocate for change by raising awareness about online harassment and advocating for stronger measures to combat it, and supporting organizations and initiatives that are working to create a safer online environment. Examples of such initivates are the Be a STAR program by WWE and Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and anti-bullying events like those held by Yanagase Pro Wrestling. For a more in-depth look at anti-bullying initiatives within the wrestling community, check out this post.

4 Ways AI Will Make Your Life Easier in 2025

With artificial intelligence rapidly becoming a very important part of our daily lives as it quietly works behind the scenes to make things smoother, more convenient, and incredibly personalized, in this blog post I will look ahead to 2025 at what notable advancements we can expect. They will further transform how we live, work, and interact with the world.

4- Your Home Will Become Smart

In 2025, your home will anticipate your needs and adapt to your preferences. Imagine your home automatically adjusting the lighting, temperature, and music based on your mood and activity. AI-energized home robots will handle household tasks, from cleaning and cooking to home maintenance and security. These systems will learn your habits and preferences over time, creating a unique and comfortable living environment.

3- Transportation Will Become Simpler

Navigating crowded cities and managing complex commutes will become much simpler in 2025 thanks to advancements in AI-charged transportation. Self-driving cars will become more common, navigating complex urban environments with greater safety and ability. AI-upgraded traffic management systems will reduce congestion and improve traffic flow, making commutes faster and less stressful. Personalized transportation recommendations will take into account your schedule, preferences, and real-time conditions to suggest the most efficient and convenient travel options.

2- Your Online Life Will Become More Secure

Although AI will always have a dark side, AI will go to another level in 2025 to protect you from itself. Imagine AI systems that can not only block spam but also detect and prevent advanced phishing attacks, identify deepfakes and misinformation, and even provide real-time warnings about potential online scams. These AI-powered security systems will learn and adapt to evolving threats, providing a much more customized and powerful defense against online dangers.

1- Digital Assistants Will Anticipate and Become Proactive

In 2025, not only will digital assistants respond to your commands, but they will also predict your needs. Imagine your AI assistant proactively reminding you of appointments based on real-time traffic conditions, automatically ordering groceries when you’re running low, or even suggesting personalized learning resources based on your interests and learning style. These assistants will be perfectly merged across all your devices, creating a more unified and personalized digital experience.

As we look towards 2025, it’s clear that AI will continue to transform our lives in extensive ways. These four examples offer a sneak preview of the possibilities that lie ahead, as AI continues to use technology to make our lives easier and more convenient.

Fact vs. Fiction: Understanding the Truths About AI

When many people hear the term "artificial intelligence", they think of living robots who will rule the world. The Sentinels from 'X-Men: Days of Future Past' represent a common fear: that AI will lead to a dark future. The movie's storyline presents a hopeless tomorrow where the Sentinels have almost completely eliminated both mutants and humans. This powerful image of AI-driven destruction perfectly captures the myth that AI will eventually lead to world domination and the downfall of humans.

But remember- it's just a movie, created by the imagination of filmmakers. Current AI technology is nowhere near this level of complexity or self-rule. Today's AI is designed for specific tasks and lacks the general intelligence and consciousness that would be required to take over the world. In this post, I will disprove some of the most common AI myths, separating fact from fiction and providing a clearer understanding of this technology.

But first, let's establish a basic definition. Artificial intelligence refers to the ability of computers or machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. Today's AI is mainly based on algorithms and data analysis, not consciousness or independent thought. Hence the name, "artificial".

Myth #1: AI Will Take Over the World

As mentioned earlier, this is the most common myth, which is fueled by many movies. And the same could be said for television shows, with one of the earliest examples being presented in 1960. In The Twilight Zone's, 'A Thing About Machines' episode, a man's own appliances turn against him, with incidents including a car chasing him, and a razor attempting to cut him.

Although the episode exaggerates the abilities and intentions of current AI technology, it is no less dramatic. 'A Thing About Machines' capitalizes on a deep fear that many people have of losing control over technology and the fear that technology will ultimately rob us of our own personalities. As we increasingly become more reliant on electronics, and AI (either directly or indirectly), it's a valid concern. However, it's important to remember that AI does not have the powers to turn this fear into a reality.

Myth #2: AI is Alive and Has Feelings

Closely related to the first myth is the idea that AI has feelings or consciousness. While AI can simulate human-like behavior, it's based on algorithms and data. AI doesn't experience emotions, have desires, or possess a sense of self. It's a complex machine, as opposed to a living entity.

Myth #3: AI Will Lead to Widespread Unemployment

The fear of job displacement due to automation is another valid concern. There is no doubt that AI will transform the job market, with some jobs becoming automated. However, it's important to remember that AI will also create new jobs in fields like AI development, data science, and AI maintenance, as humans will still be needed to understand, create, and repair AI. Also, many jobs require human skills like creativity (such as writing), critical thinking (such as judging), and emotional intelligence (such as marketing), which AI cannot replicate.

Myth #4: You Need to Be an Engineer or It Specialist to Use AI

While AI development does require specialized skills, using AI tools and benefiting from AI applications is accessible to everyone. From using voice assistants on your phone to receiving personalized recommendations on streaming services, AI is already blended into our daily lives.

Myth #5: All AI is the Same

The term "AI" is an umbrella term that covers a variety of categories, each with its own specific techniques and applications. Some key types of AI include machine learning (algorithms that allow computers to learn from data without detailed programming), deep learning (a category of machine learning that uses artificial neural networks with multiple layers to analyze complex data), Natural Language Processing (NLP) (AI that enables computers to understand and process human language), and computer vision (AI that enables computers to see and understand images & videos).

While a work of science fiction with creative writers and talented actors can make us suspend disbelief at times, it's important to mentally separate them from the reality of what AI is. Today's AI is a powerful tool with the potential to benefit society in many ways, not a living entity preparing to take over the world. By understanding the facts about AI, informed discussions can take place regarding its future and its impact on our lives.

How AI is Revolutionizing Wrestling Training and Performance

Professional wrestling is a demanding art form, requiring a unique blend of athleticism, showmanship, and storytelling. For decades, training has relied on traditional rigorous and demanding workouts, repetitive drills, and the guidance of experienced coaches who teach the fundamentals of wrestling, such as how to bump, and how to take & perform wrestling moves. But what if technology could unlock a new style of performance enhancement? Artificial intelligence (AI), can be used as a tool to shake up how wrestlers train, recover, and even perform in the ring. It could utilized regardless of if they want to be successful on the independent wrestling scene or they aspire to be one of the next wrestling superstars.

AI is already being used in sports such as baseball and basketball to improve training and performance of athletes, with STATSports using it to analyze data from wearable devices to create personalized training programs for athletes, AI analyzing video footage of athletes' performances to identify areas for improvement, and AI predicting athletes' risk of injury and developing strategies to prevent injuries. And many more innovations are on the way, which will be showcased at Expo 2025. Check out my article in The Deck to get a glimpse into the future of sports.

Imagine an AI system that can analyze a wrestler's every move, providing detailed feedback on their power, speed, and technique. This might sound like science fiction, but AI-powered performance analysis tools can track motion and biometrics, analyze match footage, and provide personalized feedback.

Imagine practicing complex sequences and dangerous maneuvers without the risk of injury. AI-driven virtual training partners can provide a safe and controlled environment for wrestlers to hone their skills.

Injuries during a match are an unfortunate reality in professional wrestling, and even the best talents can get injured in such a high-risk business. AI can play an important role in preventing injuries and accelerating recovery- by analyzing biometric data and training patterns, AI can identify wrestlers who are at risk of injury and recommend preventive measures. In the event that an injury occurs, AI can create personalized recovery plans based on the specific type of injury and the individual wrestler's physiology. During the recovery process, AI can track a wrestler's progress and adjust their rehab program as needed.

Based on current research, it's reasonable to expect that AI will upgrade injury prevention in sports. By analyzing movement patterns and biometric data, AI algorithms can identify slight indicators of potential injury risk that might be missed by the human eye. This allows for targeted involvements and personalized training programs to help athletes stay healthy and perform at their best.

While still in its early stages, the potential for AI to enhance in-ring performance is also being explored- AI could be used to create match choreography, taking into account the wrestlers' strengths and weaknesses. With that said, some might worry that utilizing AI frequently could diminish the human element of wrestling that makes it exciting- the creativity of the individual wrestlers, the calling matches on the fly, and the input from producers who have had years of ring experience and are passionate about the business. These are the ingredients of unpredictable matches and spots and they will always be at the heart of professional wrestling. Therefore, it's important to see AI as a tool to enhance human performance, not replace it.

The stage is being set for AI to transform the world of professional wrestling, offering new ways for wrestlers to train, perform, and stay healthy. By embracing these technologies, the wrestling industry can present athleticism and entertainment in a safer, innovative way.