TNA IMPACT! (AIRING THIS THURSDAY):
*Mexican America (Hernandez & Matt Baretta from OVW) defeated Tommy Dreamer and Brother Devon. They had the Mexican flag pulled down again during the match but post match Matt Morgan came and cleaned house.
*Samoa Joe beats Gunner with a choke and stares down Pope Dinero, who was doing commentary.
*TNA Knockouts Tag Team champs Rosita & Sarita defeated Angelina Love & Velvet Sky. Love acted all zoned out from Winter's spell. Winter came out on the stage. Love turned on Sky and left her laying, allowing the champions to get the win.
*Bully Ray defeated Christopher Daniels in a Lumberjack match after Hulk Hogan nailed Daniels with a chain. Daniels had hit the BME on Ray but Ric Flair pulled Earl Hebner out of the ring. Both Lumberjack sides brawl, setting up the referee missing Hulk's interference.
*Inside a Steel Cage, Jeff Jarrett cuts a promo gloating about Kurt Angle getting arrested for violating their restraining order last week. Jarrett said he was going to give Karen a special entrance but Kurt Angle's music starts. Jarrett looks around for him but Angle slides into the Impact Zone on a rope like Suicide does for his entrance. Kurt tries to corner Jeff but Jeff scrambles up and out of the cage and escapes.
*TNA is now taking the cage down. Yes, they put it up just for that.
*Rob Van Dam pinned TNA champion Sting in a non-title match with special referee Mr. Anderson. Anderson calls it right down the middle, only to nail Sting with a Mic Check. That allows RVD to hit the Five Star Frog Splash. Anderson then drills RVD with the TNA title belt and leaves him laying. Immortal comes out and raises Anderson on their shoulders. Hulk Hogan comes out clapping and shakes Anderson's hand.
Monday, March 28, 2011
**SPOILERS** WWE SD! Results For Friday
The following content was taped Monday night at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois for this week's episode of WWE SmackDown on Syfy.
1. Kofi Kingston defeated Wade Barrett by DQ in an Intercontinental Title match. Wade controlled most of the early action. Kofi hit his corner kick and a top rope cross body for a two count. Kofi hit the Boom Drop and went for Trouble in Paradise but was met with a kick to the face for a near fall. Kofi hit a nice move and almost had a two count that was broken up by The Corre. Santino and Kozlov hit the ring but were laid out. Big pyro for Kane and Big Show. The faces cleared the ring and had a stare down with The Corre.
Jerry Lawler out to cut a promo against Michael Cole. Good promo by Lawler. Short and to the point. The King has new music.
2. Cody Rhodes defeated Chris Masters. Taz... er … Kane... No, it's Cody Rhodes under a black towel. Gimmick Infringement!!! Cole returned during this match (he left prior to Jerry's promo). Seemed slightly longer than the recent Cody squashes. In the end, a side headbutt and CrossRhodes later and Cody got the win. Rey Mysterio ran down and tried to hit the 619 three different times, but Cody wasn't having it.
Backstage Report: Michael Cole's Ego Getting 'Out Of Control'
Many within World Wrestling Entertainment feel that Michael Cole's ego has gotten out of control in recent months. There have been reports of "The Voice of WWE" having tremendous heat amongst the locker room. In light of Cole's Twitter miscue over the weekend, one company source gave his opinion on how the lead WWE announcer conducts himself behind the scenes.
"Is Cole getting a big head? HELL YES," the source exclaimed. "Ever since he was reading the GM e-mails he started begging to become GM and walks around like his shit doesn't stink. He has an opinion on everything."
The source also indicated that Cole berates creative writers who hand him scripts, as he feels he can say whatever he wants on television. Many feel Cole's on-screen persona has gone to his head as how he portrays himself on television reflects his behavior behind the scenes.
The source indicated that incidents such as his flagrant remark on Twitter would be cause for termination if Vince McMahon was looking for an excuse to release a talent. However, the organization has too much invested in the Jerry Lawler vs. Michael Cole program to abandon it.
Backstage Update - The Rock's In-Ring WWE Return?
Both WWE and The Rock are very happy with the current Cena-Miz-Rock storyline.
The Rock originally agreed to host WrestleMania 27 back in January but he's so genuinely happy about being back that he's said to be more than willing to get back in the ring for a few more matches.
WWE is being very secretive about any plans for more matches. Most people within WWE expect The Rock to wrestle both John Cena and The Miz at some point. He's also expected to stick around on a part-time basis following WrestleMania 27.
You've got to give the guy credit as he hasn't plugged any movies and seems to be more than willing to stick around.
The Rock originally agreed to host WrestleMania 27 back in January but he's so genuinely happy about being back that he's said to be more than willing to get back in the ring for a few more matches.
WWE is being very secretive about any plans for more matches. Most people within WWE expect The Rock to wrestle both John Cena and The Miz at some point. He's also expected to stick around on a part-time basis following WrestleMania 27.
You've got to give the guy credit as he hasn't plugged any movies and seems to be more than willing to stick around.
Big Randy Savage Announcement Shortly?, Jericho Note
-- As noted earlier here on the website, Chris Jericho wrote a blog for TVSquad.com discussing ABC's Dancing With The Stars. Jericho noted that he was extremely nervous on last week's debut episode. "I've performed in front of crowds of up to 70,000 people for more than two decades, but last week I experienced a whole different animal," he said. "Something so foreign, so terrifying, so intimidating that, beforehand, I was as nervous as a 12-year-old girl meeting Justin Bieber for the first time. Yes, kiddies, I was about to make my ballroom debut on 'Dancing With the Stars'! After rehearsing incessantly for more than three weeks with my partner Cheryl Burke, it was finally time to do the first show. My dress rehearsals had been a bit shaky -- performing my routine in the actual 'DWTS' studio was scary. Suddenly the guy who had a so-called advantage because of years of performing live was behind the eight ball."
-- "The Genuis" Lanny Poffo recently appeared on The Wrestling Minute radio show and revealed some news about his real-life brother, The "Macho Man" Randy Savage. "I'm not going to reveal his big secret because I am afraid of what he'll do to me if I do, but keep watching, in the next month or so Macho Man will be doing something BIG!", said Poffo. We'll keep you posted here on the website.
-- "The Genuis" Lanny Poffo recently appeared on The Wrestling Minute radio show and revealed some news about his real-life brother, The "Macho Man" Randy Savage. "I'm not going to reveal his big secret because I am afraid of what he'll do to me if I do, but keep watching, in the next month or so Macho Man will be doing something BIG!", said Poffo. We'll keep you posted here on the website.
Is The Rock Backstage At RAW?, More Backstage News
-- The Rock is already in Chicago for tonight's RAW broadcast. We're told he arrived last night and stayed at the same hotel as the rest of the WWE crew. He was sad to be approachable by fans who stopped him for photos and he took time out to ask fans what they wanted to see out of his return.
-- As noted earlier, The Rock appears on Piers Morgan Tonight this Thursday night. He will be in studio (the show tapes in Atlanta, GA) and will be promoting WrestleMania 27. The Rock is expected to travel with the WWE crew tonight after RAW and head to Atlanta, GA. He'll be there throughout the week with everyone else.
-- For what it's worth, almost everyone within WWE expects The Rock to wrestle another match. It's just a matter of when and who at this point.
-- As noted earlier, The Rock appears on Piers Morgan Tonight this Thursday night. He will be in studio (the show tapes in Atlanta, GA) and will be promoting WrestleMania 27. The Rock is expected to travel with the WWE crew tonight after RAW and head to Atlanta, GA. He'll be there throughout the week with everyone else.
-- For what it's worth, almost everyone within WWE expects The Rock to wrestle another match. It's just a matter of when and who at this point.
Report: A Not-Yet-Announced WrestleMania 27 Match?
The source code on the front page of WWE.com reveals an Eight-Man Tag Team Match taking place at WrestleMania XXVII with The Corre going up against The Big Show, Kane, Kofi Kingston and Christian.
The page, however, has not been published as it presently reads "Access Denied." It should be noted that this match had been planned as of last week. There were also talks to add Christian to the Del Rio/Edge match but obviously that didn't happen.
We'll see what happens at tonight's TV tapings. They also could announce this during the week via WWE.com. We'll see soon enough!
The page, however, has not been published as it presently reads "Access Denied." It should be noted that this match had been planned as of last week. There were also talks to add Christian to the Del Rio/Edge match but obviously that didn't happen.
We'll see what happens at tonight's TV tapings. They also could announce this during the week via WWE.com. We'll see soon enough!
RAW-HOF **SPOILER** For Tonight Revealed
It is expected that the WWE will announce tonight on RAW that The Road Warriors will be going into the WWE Hall of Fame. Paul Ellering may be inducted with them, but that is not confirmed just yet.
It is expected that Dusty Rhodes will induct them into the hall at Saturday night's ceremony.
Otunga Not Happy w/ J-Hud's Weight Loss, Piper-Miz-Kimmel
-- Roddy Piper and The Miz will be appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live tomorrow night, promoting WrestleMania 27 and the WWE All Stars game. The segment was taped last week.
-- WWE Superstar David Otunga is none too pleased with fiancé Jennifer Hudson's significant weight loss, who has lost a grand total of 80 pounds. The recording artist, actress and Weight Watchers spokesperson appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Friday where she was asked "What does your fiancé think, does he like the new svelte you?" J-Hud responded, "He’s getting adjusted to it. He's not really into change that much so he fusses at me like, "Why do you have to have to get all dressed up to go out and why can’t you just go out like you used to?" And I'm like "I'm a walking billboard now honey."
-- WWE Superstar David Otunga is none too pleased with fiancé Jennifer Hudson's significant weight loss, who has lost a grand total of 80 pounds. The recording artist, actress and Weight Watchers spokesperson appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Friday where she was asked "What does your fiancé think, does he like the new svelte you?" J-Hud responded, "He’s getting adjusted to it. He's not really into change that much so he fusses at me like, "Why do you have to have to get all dressed up to go out and why can’t you just go out like you used to?" And I'm like "I'm a walking billboard now honey."
WWE Tough Enough Cast At WrestleMania?, The Rock Update
-- Celebrating a birthday today is former WWE star The Warlord, who turns 49 years old. Today would have also marked as Curt Hennig's 53rd birthday, as well as Umaga's 38th birthday. Rikishi posted on Twitter, "Thank you WORLD for ALL the shout outs remembering my brother on His Birthday "EKI "UMAGA" FATU", RESPECT."
-- WrestleMania XXVII host Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is scheduled for Piers Morgan Tonight on CNN. His appearance airs this Thursday at 9:00 p.m. In January, the talk show filled the time slot formerly held by Larry King Live.
-- The cast of WWE Tough Enough are scheduled to appear at WrestleMania XXVII in Atlanta, Georgia. They are also scheduled for the following night's Monday Night RAW TV taping.
HBK Thanks The Fans
-- Shawn Michaels posted the following on his Twitter last night… "I cannot thank you all enough 4 helping out. Fact!! It just doesn't happen w/out each & everyone of you. As always, I owe you. Thx. I want 2 let u all know I just got word we grossed close 2 60K on the raffle. THANK YOU!! That money is going 2 do sum GOOD!! Pardon the pandering, but dang it, thank you. I hope u will get how much ur needed!! By me, by somebody, somewhere. Mushy but true. I'll try not 2b sentimental to much, but I can't help it. That is just cool!! And u guys/gals did that. Thank you. OK, I'm done:-)"
Maryse Not Backstage At RAW Today
-- Maryse will not be on hand for tonight's RAW taping in Chicago, Illinois as she will be attending Dancing with the Stars in Hollywood, California to watch former colleague Chris Jericho perform. Fellow WWE Divas The Bella Twins and Alicia Fox attended last week's show.
Will Bret Hart Appear At WrestleMania?, Keri Hilson-WWE, More
-- WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart said he will not be on hand for WrestleMania XXVII this weekend. "I will not be at Mania this year," Hart wrote on Twitter. "Had my fun last year." Hart added that it's Shawn Michaels, Steve Austin, Trish Stratus, The Rock, Jerry Lawler and the other WWE Superstars' "time to shine."
-- For those who may have missed it over the weekend, World Wrestling Entertainment announced Friday that Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum recording artist Keri Hilson will perform "America the Beautiful" kicking-off WrestleMania XXVII live on pay-per-view this Sunday at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia.
-- In the latest edition of "Superstar to Superstar" on WWE.com, former Divas Champion Melina talks to the stars of Sucker Punch — Vanessa Hudgens, Jena Malone and Jamie Chung — about the new action fantasy film.
-- For those who may have missed it over the weekend, World Wrestling Entertainment announced Friday that Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum recording artist Keri Hilson will perform "America the Beautiful" kicking-off WrestleMania XXVII live on pay-per-view this Sunday at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia.
-- In the latest edition of "Superstar to Superstar" on WWE.com, former Divas Champion Melina talks to the stars of Sucker Punch — Vanessa Hudgens, Jena Malone and Jamie Chung — about the new action fantasy film.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Report: Shawn Daivari Re-Signs With TNA
-- Kurt Angle attended a regional wrestling tournament on Saturday in Bemidji, Minnesota. The Olympic Gold Medalist spoke to over 800 children and teens about proper training and education. Video footage is available at TNAWrestling.com.
-- According to SuperLuchas.net, Shawn Daivari (a/k/a Sheik Abdul Bashir) has re-signed with TNA Wrestling. The former X Division Champion is expected to work this week's iMPACT! tapings in Orlando, Florida.
Daivari parted ways with TNA Wrestling in December 2009 after requesting his release from the organization. Since that time he has appeared for Ring of Honor and numerous independent promotions.
-- According to SuperLuchas.net, Shawn Daivari (a/k/a Sheik Abdul Bashir) has re-signed with TNA Wrestling. The former X Division Champion is expected to work this week's iMPACT! tapings in Orlando, Florida.
Daivari parted ways with TNA Wrestling in December 2009 after requesting his release from the organization. Since that time he has appeared for Ring of Honor and numerous independent promotions.
John Cena Is Ready For RAW, Tough Enough Plans, Trish
-- John Cena wrote the following on Twitter regarding his showdown with The Rock and The Miz tomorrow night on RAW: "CeNation. Already gearing up for monday. Rock said it..and I believe it..the time for talk is over."
-- As noted yesterday here on the website, WWE Tough Enough is expected to be added to the USA Network's Video On Demand service. Replays of the show will air late Monday night. The first episode is titled "Get Your Teeth Out of My Ring."
-- Trish Stratus is scheduled to appear on the CBC Television talk show Steven and Chris on Tuesday to demonstrate her workout featured in the latest issue of Oxygen. Speaking of Trish, you can click here to see some recent photos of her without makeup. She's still smokin' hot!
-- As noted yesterday here on the website, WWE Tough Enough is expected to be added to the USA Network's Video On Demand service. Replays of the show will air late Monday night. The first episode is titled "Get Your Teeth Out of My Ring."
-- Trish Stratus is scheduled to appear on the CBC Television talk show Steven and Chris on Tuesday to demonstrate her workout featured in the latest issue of Oxygen. Speaking of Trish, you can click here to see some recent photos of her without makeup. She's still smokin' hot!
Cole Praises Lawler + Cole's Son Working With WWE
As noted earlier this morning here on the website, The Poughkeepsie Journal published an article today on Michael Cole. When asked about his match at WrestleMania XXVII, the Amenia, New York native broke character and said, "The dream's come true. I'm participating in an event against a man who is an absolute legend and Hall of Famer in Jerry Lawler. I'm so honored and privileged just to have the opportunity to participate in a match against this man.
"Plus Stone Cold is our special referee. To be in there with two of the greatest icons, it's like a reality check. It's such a great ride."
He also said that his 24-year-old son Calvin is working for WWE in the television production department and travels with him on the road. The full story can be read at http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/
"Plus Stone Cold is our special referee. To be in there with two of the greatest icons, it's like a reality check. It's such a great ride."
He also said that his 24-year-old son Calvin is working for WWE in the television production department and travels with him on the road. The full story can be read at http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/
Cole's Major Issues
-- As noted earlier here on the website, Michael Cole is in some deep shit as it pertains to his homophobic tweet earlier today. In the "corporate reality world", almost nobody apologizes for things like this unless there is major pressure to do so from the higher-ups. That was indeed the case today as Cole was notified by WWE management to remove the tweet ASAP and issue an apology. WWE isn't happy about it. Also, WWE and GLAAD were just in a major spat over remarks made in several recent John Cena interviews as well as a segment on RAW where he addressed The Rock. WWE pretty much promised them that nothing like this would happen again and now we've got the incident today. Trust me when I tell you this is going to be made into a big deal in the media. Ask Dana White what happened several months ago when he did the same thing. It's not good news for WWE.
TMZ Covers Michael Cole Slur - WWE Responds
TMZ.com has picked up the story on Michael Cole calling fellow WWE announcer Josh Matthews a "faggot" earlier today via Twitter. This is exactly what WWE didn't want to happen. You can expect the story to appear in numerous media outlets now that TMZ has picked it up. It's obviously not good news for WWE, especially with Michael Cole set for a main event match at WrestleMania 27 next Sunday. Here is the TMZ.com article:
Less than two weeks after the WWE and GLAAD teamed up to say they were going to work together to curb homophobic slurs in wrestling, one of the WWE's top announcers tweeted one at a fellow announcer.
Earlier today, Michael Cole simply tweeted one disgusting word towards fellow announcer Josh Mathews. Cole quickly took down the tweet and apologized.
The WWE and GLAAD announced a partnership on March 17 to try and put an end to bullying based on sexual orientation after a series of homophobic taunts was made by wrestler John Cena.
WWE said at the time: "WWE takes this issue very seriously, and has already spoken with our talent about these incidents. We are taking steps and working with GLAAD to ensure that our fans know that WWE is against bullying or discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation."
A rep for the WWE tells TMZ, "WWE has alerted GLAAD to the situation and spoken to Michael Cole about his post. He has removed it and apologized for using hateful language. Michael will be included in the training session being done by GLAAD. WWE takes this very seriously and is against discrimination of any kind based on sexual orientation, gender, race, religion or other."
A rep for GLAAD could not be reached for comment.
TMZ.com has also posted screen caps from Cole's tweet. It should be noted that Cole earlier tweeted that he was not told to issue an apology. WWE's statement to TMZ.com contradicts that statement. Once again, damage control at its finest folks! I can't imagine Vince McMahon is thrilled with this either. Good luck at RAW Monday, Michael!
Less than two weeks after the WWE and GLAAD teamed up to say they were going to work together to curb homophobic slurs in wrestling, one of the WWE's top announcers tweeted one at a fellow announcer.
Earlier today, Michael Cole simply tweeted one disgusting word towards fellow announcer Josh Mathews. Cole quickly took down the tweet and apologized.
The WWE and GLAAD announced a partnership on March 17 to try and put an end to bullying based on sexual orientation after a series of homophobic taunts was made by wrestler John Cena.
WWE said at the time: "WWE takes this issue very seriously, and has already spoken with our talent about these incidents. We are taking steps and working with GLAAD to ensure that our fans know that WWE is against bullying or discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation."
A rep for the WWE tells TMZ, "WWE has alerted GLAAD to the situation and spoken to Michael Cole about his post. He has removed it and apologized for using hateful language. Michael will be included in the training session being done by GLAAD. WWE takes this very seriously and is against discrimination of any kind based on sexual orientation, gender, race, religion or other."
A rep for GLAAD could not be reached for comment.
TMZ.com has also posted screen caps from Cole's tweet. It should be noted that Cole earlier tweeted that he was not told to issue an apology. WWE's statement to TMZ.com contradicts that statement. Once again, damage control at its finest folks! I can't imagine Vince McMahon is thrilled with this either. Good luck at RAW Monday, Michael!
Hulk Hogan On TNA's Lack Of Progress
-- A fan criticized Hulk Hogan on Twitter for TNA Wrestling making little forward progress after joining the organization over a year ago with promises of high expectations. Hogan responded to his criticism. "Have you ever moved a mountain?" he replied. "It moves slow. There's more to this business than you or I will ever understand. "I'm trying, I think I've learned a lot in thirty years, we are on the same page. I've been there a year. That's funny. McMahons have been in it for decades and decades!"
Michael Cole Writes Homophobic Slur On Twitter
Michael Cole posted a homophobic slur this afternoon on his recently launched Twitter account as he called fellow WWE announcer Josh Mathews a 'faggot'. The tweet was in response to Mathews writing "Chicago!", the host city of this Monday's RAW taping.
The one word message was deleted approximately half an hour later and an apology was issued.
"I apologize to any and all who were offended by my tweet toward young Josh Mathews," Cole wrote. "It was obviously not meant the way it was taken."
He later added, "I was not ordered to apologize I said I am sorry because I am. Now can I get back to being a character again please?"
World Wrestling Entertainment recently came under fire from the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), which took issue with the 'homophobic taunts' John Cena directed towards Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson on the February 28 episode of Monday Night RAW. Cena's unsavory verbiage prompted WWE to issue an apology and form a partnership with the organization on an anti-bullying campaign.
WWE subsequently released the following statement:
"WWE takes this issue very seriously, and has already spoken with our talent about these incidents. We are taking steps and working with GLAAD to ensure that our fans know that WWE is against bullying or discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. We strongly value our fans in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, and apologize to them for these incidents."
It was also noted in GLAAD's press release that WWE has invited the organization to conduct training sessions for their staff of writers and editors.
The one word message was deleted approximately half an hour later and an apology was issued.
"I apologize to any and all who were offended by my tweet toward young Josh Mathews," Cole wrote. "It was obviously not meant the way it was taken."
He later added, "I was not ordered to apologize I said I am sorry because I am. Now can I get back to being a character again please?"
World Wrestling Entertainment recently came under fire from the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), which took issue with the 'homophobic taunts' John Cena directed towards Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson on the February 28 episode of Monday Night RAW. Cena's unsavory verbiage prompted WWE to issue an apology and form a partnership with the organization on an anti-bullying campaign.
WWE subsequently released the following statement:
"WWE takes this issue very seriously, and has already spoken with our talent about these incidents. We are taking steps and working with GLAAD to ensure that our fans know that WWE is against bullying or discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. We strongly value our fans in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, and apologize to them for these incidents."
It was also noted in GLAAD's press release that WWE has invited the organization to conduct training sessions for their staff of writers and editors.
Kurt Angle Issues Statement - Says He Wasn't Drunk
Kurt Angle was arrested yesterday in Grand Forks, North Dakota and charged with "being in control of a motor vehicle while intoxicated," after failing a field sobriety test. Contrary to the report, he claims he was not drunk and that the story was blown out of proportion.
"Thank U to my supporters. I was not drunk. I was in ice storm and my car slid into 3 ft of snow median. I called police 4 help. They had other plans. I was stuck and wanted to go to my hotel. I was not passed out drunk. I was coherent. I'm sorry if I let you down. Don't believe everything You read. My life is good and this is a speed bump in the road. The truth will come out. GOD Bless. I take responsibility for this.
My job is to stay clean and never put myself in jeopardy. TMZ blew it out of proportion. After my Hearings, I will give You proper story. GOD Bless. Kurt Angle. I Love You all."
Following the arrest, he worked the evening's TNA Wrestling live event in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Keep in mind that cops arrested him for failing a field sobriety test. This sounds like damage control to us but we'll have to wait and see.
You can click here to see Kurt Angle's new mugshot from yesterday's arrest.
"Thank U to my supporters. I was not drunk. I was in ice storm and my car slid into 3 ft of snow median. I called police 4 help. They had other plans. I was stuck and wanted to go to my hotel. I was not passed out drunk. I was coherent. I'm sorry if I let you down. Don't believe everything You read. My life is good and this is a speed bump in the road. The truth will come out. GOD Bless. I take responsibility for this.
My job is to stay clean and never put myself in jeopardy. TMZ blew it out of proportion. After my Hearings, I will give You proper story. GOD Bless. Kurt Angle. I Love You all."
Following the arrest, he worked the evening's TNA Wrestling live event in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Keep in mind that cops arrested him for failing a field sobriety test. This sounds like damage control to us but we'll have to wait and see.
You can click here to see Kurt Angle's new mugshot from yesterday's arrest.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Report: WWE Talents Jealous Of Sin Cara?
Rumors recently surfaced online indicating that Rey Mysterio asked World Wrestling Entertainment officials to release him from his contract following WrestleMania XXVII. Mysterio, however, shot down the rumors on his Twitter account, saying he did not ask to be released and that he will be around for a while. According to a source, Mysterio did in fact have a 'blow-up' with WWE management back in February.
Former WCW star Konnan, a longtime friend of Mysterio, told a source that the assumption that the SmackDown! star is bothered by the recent signing of Mexican sensation Sin Cara is way off. He said Mysterio isn't the type to be jealous. Rather, he welcomes new talent as potential rivals or teammates.
It would appear that Mysterio and Sin Cara will be kept on opposite WWE brands for the time being as the newcomer is slated to initially work RAW live events. As noted earlier here on the website, he made his first appearance inside a WWE ring at last night's RAW house show in Assembly Hall in Champaign, Illinois, defeating WWE Superstars fixture Primo.
Meanwhile, Alberto Del Rio was asked to comment on WWE signing Sin Cara during an interview published earlier this week on latino.foxnews.com. While the article says he is "pleased" to hear WWE sign a fellow countryman, he doesn't acknowledge Sin Cara in particular. He instead says that he's happy WWE is using a number of Latino wrestlers, before turning the subject back to himself.
"I'm just happy this company uses so many Latino talent," Del Rio said. "There is so much talent out there, from Puerto Rico to Mexico, just to name a few. I hope it continues like that. Because of that, I am here and getting all these opportunities.”
According to another backstage source, the claim of Del Rio being "pleased" about Sin Cara joining WWE is contrary to a behind the scenes story they've heard. We'll have more on that shortly.
For those who have never seen them before, you can click here to view photos of Sin Cara unmasked.
Did Bobby Lashley Win His MMA Fight Last Night?
Last night at Titan Fighting Championships 17, Bobby Lashley (5-1) fought for the first time since his loss to Chad Griggs (10-1) on August 21st, 2010.
Lashley, a heavyweight, fought John Ott (8-6), who was a late replacement, and normally a middleweight (185lb) fighter. Lashley could not finish Ott, but did pick up the unanimous decision victory (29-27 30-27 29-27) in what was described as an "underwhelming performance".
Lashley, a heavyweight, fought John Ott (8-6), who was a late replacement, and normally a middleweight (185lb) fighter. Lashley could not finish Ott, but did pick up the unanimous decision victory (29-27 30-27 29-27) in what was described as an "underwhelming performance".
Sin Cara Makes WWE Debut + New IC Champion Crowned
-- Wade Barrett captured the WWE Intercontinental Championship from Kofi Kingston on this week's episode of WWE SmackDown!.
Just as Kingston was about to hit Trouble in Paradise on Barrett, The Corre member countered with Wasteland. Seconds later, her captured his first championship in WWE. Justin Gabriel hit Kingston with the 450 Splash following the match.
-- Sin Cara made his WWE debut at Friday night's RAW live event at Assembly Hall in Champaign, Illinois, defeating Primo.
A fan in attendance said that while his performance was "solid", he doesn't know how to work a "WWE style" match. He also performed about eight headscissors variations.
For those interested, you can click here to view photos of Sin Cara unmasked.
Just as Kingston was about to hit Trouble in Paradise on Barrett, The Corre member countered with Wasteland. Seconds later, her captured his first championship in WWE. Justin Gabriel hit Kingston with the 450 Splash following the match.
-- Sin Cara made his WWE debut at Friday night's RAW live event at Assembly Hall in Champaign, Illinois, defeating Primo.
A fan in attendance said that while his performance was "solid", he doesn't know how to work a "WWE style" match. He also performed about eight headscissors variations.
For those interested, you can click here to view photos of Sin Cara unmasked.
Shane Douglas Worried For Jeff Hardy, Ric Flair, More
On episode #11 of the WNS Podcast for WrestlingNewsSource.com, Danny Ray, Jordan Landry and Tyler Abear interview former WWE, WCW and ECW Star "The Franchise" Shane Douglas. He opens the interview promoting his upcoming appearance for the TV Taping of The Death Match Tournament which he will be hosting LIVE Sat. April 2nd at NJN Studios 25 South Stockton Street - Trenton, NJ 08608! Here are some interview highlights:
On Ric Flair tarnishing his legacy:
During the interview Douglas revealed that he would have liked to have wrestled The Anderson's, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat and Ric Flair in their prime. He notes he always had something personal to prove with Flair and he never thought he was on the same level as him because he was truly iconic for his time but he said "as a man I am ten times the man he has ever been" when asked for his thoughts on Ric Flair tarnishing he legacy in TNA at the moment Douglas said "I think Ric Flair has been tarnishing his legacy since 1990" he added "he has done more to tarnish his career then anything I could have said or did, then anybody could have said or did."
On Vince McMahon being accountable:
Following on from discussions of Flair being still in the ring at his age Douglas notes that the wrestling business is unkind to older performers unlike football, baseball and basketball that have unions and player associations. He said "Vince McMahon should get pressed a little more about this question as opposed to whatever his daughter, son or wife is running for, he needs to be held accountable for the industry he has monopolized and controlled for over twenty years"
On Jeff Hardy's current situation:
When asked for his opinion on the current Jeff Hardy situation in TNA, Douglas said: "It is not for me to say publicly about his personal life but I will say this I am worried about him, I have seen far too many names walk the path he is walking and end up at the end of an obituary as opposed to the top of the pile" He adds that he is saddened that TNA Wrestling has not done anything about the situation and if they do not do it then nobody will and it will just lead to Hardy going down the wrong path "Objectionable at best, disgusting at worst that an entity like TNA would allow what appears to be by all accounts a train wreck and utilise it just because they can make some money of it, that to me is the real travesty and that to me is the real question people should be asking - Why aren't the powers at TNA holding him accountable?" He adds their might be something going on behind the scenes but he has yet to see any sign of it.
Douglas also pays tribute to Sir Oliver Humperdink, talks about his upcoming book, his relationship with the late Chris Candido and Bam Bam Bigelow, life after wrestling and MORE!
On Ric Flair tarnishing his legacy:
During the interview Douglas revealed that he would have liked to have wrestled The Anderson's, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat and Ric Flair in their prime. He notes he always had something personal to prove with Flair and he never thought he was on the same level as him because he was truly iconic for his time but he said "as a man I am ten times the man he has ever been" when asked for his thoughts on Ric Flair tarnishing he legacy in TNA at the moment Douglas said "I think Ric Flair has been tarnishing his legacy since 1990" he added "he has done more to tarnish his career then anything I could have said or did, then anybody could have said or did."
On Vince McMahon being accountable:
Following on from discussions of Flair being still in the ring at his age Douglas notes that the wrestling business is unkind to older performers unlike football, baseball and basketball that have unions and player associations. He said "Vince McMahon should get pressed a little more about this question as opposed to whatever his daughter, son or wife is running for, he needs to be held accountable for the industry he has monopolized and controlled for over twenty years"
On Jeff Hardy's current situation:
When asked for his opinion on the current Jeff Hardy situation in TNA, Douglas said: "It is not for me to say publicly about his personal life but I will say this I am worried about him, I have seen far too many names walk the path he is walking and end up at the end of an obituary as opposed to the top of the pile" He adds that he is saddened that TNA Wrestling has not done anything about the situation and if they do not do it then nobody will and it will just lead to Hardy going down the wrong path "Objectionable at best, disgusting at worst that an entity like TNA would allow what appears to be by all accounts a train wreck and utilise it just because they can make some money of it, that to me is the real travesty and that to me is the real question people should be asking - Why aren't the powers at TNA holding him accountable?" He adds their might be something going on behind the scenes but he has yet to see any sign of it.
Douglas also pays tribute to Sir Oliver Humperdink, talks about his upcoming book, his relationship with the late Chris Candido and Bam Bam Bigelow, life after wrestling and MORE!
Extensive Backstage Update - Jeff Hardy's Condition
According to multiple sources within TNA Wrestling, there was no indication that Jeff Hardy was in no condition to perform throughout the day of last week's Victory Road pay-per-view event.
"He was fine all day and then no one could find him," according to a company source.
Shortly before Hardy's match with Sting, production managers James Tilquist (a/k/a Big Tilly) and Bruno Sassi found him in or around his trailer. One source told us he was found on his back in a bathroom.
"They had to carry him from his trailer to the gorilla position," stated an observer, whose story was deemed true by other employees.
Concern increased over the way Hardy stumbled during his ring entrance. TNA sources believe Eric Bischoff, who was at the "gorilla position," called the audible with only a matter of seconds to come up with another way of getting around the match. He headed to the ring to deliver the altered match plans to Hardy and Sting while also announcing to the audience that it would be a No Disqualification Match. Many people praised Bischoff as he did the right thing by not allowing Hardy to work a full match. He also had to make a quick decision on what to do.
Following the brief main event match, Sting responded to "bullshit" chants by reportedly saying "I agree." He headed backstage and there were no visible issues with management. Meanwhile, Hardy remained in the ring and played up the "bullshit" chants. He was led back to his trailer after arriving backstage. There was also no visible confrontation between Hardy and management after the show.
The decision to not use Hardy for the week's iMPACT! tapings was made the following day during the morning. It was speculated backstage that Hardy would not be used again until his legal situation is finalized. Additionally, management has yet to address the situation with the wrestlers.
TNA Wrestling President Dixie Carter was backstage at the Monday iMPACT! taping, but was not backstage at Tuesday or Wednesday's shows. She reportedly went on a vacation to Mexico. The feeling amongst some employees was that talk of Hardy was taboo with her on Monday. Some employees were frustrated that she did not address the situation to the locker room.
A number of people within the company strongly feel that Hardy should be fired or at the very least give him the ultimatum that World Wrestling Entertainment officials gave him in 2003 (Hardy declined the request and was fired as a result). Many assume that WWE would cover the cost of Hardy's rehabilitation if he opts for it. WWE has an ongoing offer to cover the expenses of drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs for current and former talent. However, it has not been indicated that TNA made the request as talks between both parties have been kept quiet.
"He was fine all day and then no one could find him," according to a company source.
Shortly before Hardy's match with Sting, production managers James Tilquist (a/k/a Big Tilly) and Bruno Sassi found him in or around his trailer. One source told us he was found on his back in a bathroom.
"They had to carry him from his trailer to the gorilla position," stated an observer, whose story was deemed true by other employees.
Concern increased over the way Hardy stumbled during his ring entrance. TNA sources believe Eric Bischoff, who was at the "gorilla position," called the audible with only a matter of seconds to come up with another way of getting around the match. He headed to the ring to deliver the altered match plans to Hardy and Sting while also announcing to the audience that it would be a No Disqualification Match. Many people praised Bischoff as he did the right thing by not allowing Hardy to work a full match. He also had to make a quick decision on what to do.
Following the brief main event match, Sting responded to "bullshit" chants by reportedly saying "I agree." He headed backstage and there were no visible issues with management. Meanwhile, Hardy remained in the ring and played up the "bullshit" chants. He was led back to his trailer after arriving backstage. There was also no visible confrontation between Hardy and management after the show.
The decision to not use Hardy for the week's iMPACT! tapings was made the following day during the morning. It was speculated backstage that Hardy would not be used again until his legal situation is finalized. Additionally, management has yet to address the situation with the wrestlers.
TNA Wrestling President Dixie Carter was backstage at the Monday iMPACT! taping, but was not backstage at Tuesday or Wednesday's shows. She reportedly went on a vacation to Mexico. The feeling amongst some employees was that talk of Hardy was taboo with her on Monday. Some employees were frustrated that she did not address the situation to the locker room.
A number of people within the company strongly feel that Hardy should be fired or at the very least give him the ultimatum that World Wrestling Entertainment officials gave him in 2003 (Hardy declined the request and was fired as a result). Many assume that WWE would cover the cost of Hardy's rehabilitation if he opts for it. WWE has an ongoing offer to cover the expenses of drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs for current and former talent. However, it has not been indicated that TNA made the request as talks between both parties have been kept quiet.
Randy Orton Speaks Out - Face Turn, Cena/Rock Feud
Randy Orton recently spoke with ESPN.com about his babyface turn, the WWE All-Stars game and more. Check out the highlights:
On his face turn: When you go from being a good guy to a bad guy or vice versa like I did, everyone always tells you, "Don't change, don't change." And in my case, the less change the better because what really happened is the fans turned me. This wasn't some master plan where all of a sudden I was going to be a good guy, I just started getting a lot of fan support. It's a fine line because I wasn't going out there like John Cena high-fiving kids and hugging grandmas and pumping my fist and smiling ... if I would've done that, I would've failed tremendously, kind of like it did back in 2004, when I became the youngest champion in WWE history. That didn't work at all because I changed so much. So it's really about looking at your character, seeing what people like about me, like about my character, and seeing how much I can change without changing too much and walking that fine line. I think I've done a pretty good job. I'm definitely still learning on the job, though. It took me about five years to get really comfortable as a bad guy, as a heel, and I expect to take another couple of years as a good guy to really come into my own, but I'm definitely on the right path."
On The Rock vs. John Cena: "I know them both, and I know Cena a lot better than I know The Rock, obviously, but I've been in the ring with both cutting promos and wrestling. I have to say, though, talking about the whole ring rust thing, John Cena has had about 2,000 matches in the last seven years. The Rock? A big, fat zero. So when it comes to ring rust, I don't care what type of athlete you are, and The Rock is obviously an athletic dude, but Cena has been in the ring. He's been at every show and in every show and making appearances and he has been on the road with the WWE over 300 days a year for the last seven years. The Rock? Virtually non-existent. You see the interviews that The Rock does and he says that he doesn't want to be known as a wrestler. He doesn't want to be known as a sports entertainer or a performer with WWE or a WWE superstar. He wants to be known as an actor. Now all of a sudden he's back in our world telling the fans what they want to hear. He's telling them: "I promise that I will never go away again. I promise that I'm back for good and that I'm here to stay." He said that, what, six or seven weeks ago? Have we even seen him live since then? No. Via satellite. I think Cena will own The Rock. I think Cena is wittier and can go off the cuff. Cena writes his own stuff while The Rock has stuff written for him. It just all comes down to who you are in the ring and what kind of performer you are in the ring, and I think Cena is ten times the performer in the ring that The Rock is. This Monday in Chicago, he'll prove it."
On his face turn: When you go from being a good guy to a bad guy or vice versa like I did, everyone always tells you, "Don't change, don't change." And in my case, the less change the better because what really happened is the fans turned me. This wasn't some master plan where all of a sudden I was going to be a good guy, I just started getting a lot of fan support. It's a fine line because I wasn't going out there like John Cena high-fiving kids and hugging grandmas and pumping my fist and smiling ... if I would've done that, I would've failed tremendously, kind of like it did back in 2004, when I became the youngest champion in WWE history. That didn't work at all because I changed so much. So it's really about looking at your character, seeing what people like about me, like about my character, and seeing how much I can change without changing too much and walking that fine line. I think I've done a pretty good job. I'm definitely still learning on the job, though. It took me about five years to get really comfortable as a bad guy, as a heel, and I expect to take another couple of years as a good guy to really come into my own, but I'm definitely on the right path."
On The Rock vs. John Cena: "I know them both, and I know Cena a lot better than I know The Rock, obviously, but I've been in the ring with both cutting promos and wrestling. I have to say, though, talking about the whole ring rust thing, John Cena has had about 2,000 matches in the last seven years. The Rock? A big, fat zero. So when it comes to ring rust, I don't care what type of athlete you are, and The Rock is obviously an athletic dude, but Cena has been in the ring. He's been at every show and in every show and making appearances and he has been on the road with the WWE over 300 days a year for the last seven years. The Rock? Virtually non-existent. You see the interviews that The Rock does and he says that he doesn't want to be known as a wrestler. He doesn't want to be known as a sports entertainer or a performer with WWE or a WWE superstar. He wants to be known as an actor. Now all of a sudden he's back in our world telling the fans what they want to hear. He's telling them: "I promise that I will never go away again. I promise that I'm back for good and that I'm here to stay." He said that, what, six or seven weeks ago? Have we even seen him live since then? No. Via satellite. I think Cena will own The Rock. I think Cena is wittier and can go off the cuff. Cena writes his own stuff while The Rock has stuff written for him. It just all comes down to who you are in the ring and what kind of performer you are in the ring, and I think Cena is ten times the performer in the ring that The Rock is. This Monday in Chicago, he'll prove it."
This Week's TNA iMPACT! Rating
-- This week's TNA iMPACT! (3/24) drew a 1.22 cable rating, with 1.7 million viewers. This is down slightly from last week's show which drew a 1.27 (1.3) cable rating, with 1.8 million viewers. This week's hours were 1.19 (1.2) and 1.26 (1.3). This is also the second consecutive week that the second hour of the show drew higher ratings than the first hour which is a good trend. The second hour of iMPACT! also went head-to-head with The Jersey Shore season finale as well as the NCAA tournament.
Breaking News: Kurt Angle Arrested
The following is from TMZ.com:
Wrestling superstar Kurt Angle was arrested early this morning in North Dakota ... TMZ has learned.
Law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... highway patrol in Grand Forks found Angle sitting in his car in the median separating lanes. We're told Angle told cops he had hit an icy patch in the road. During the conversation, cops say they smelled alcohol on Angle's breath. He failed a field sobriety test and was arrested.
Since cops didn't see Angle driving, he was arrested and later charged with being in control of a motor vehicle while intoxicated -- which basically means he was allegedly drunk behind the wheel but not actually driving.
You can click here to see Kurt Angle's mugshot.
Wrestling superstar Kurt Angle was arrested early this morning in North Dakota ... TMZ has learned.
Law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... highway patrol in Grand Forks found Angle sitting in his car in the median separating lanes. We're told Angle told cops he had hit an icy patch in the road. During the conversation, cops say they smelled alcohol on Angle's breath. He failed a field sobriety test and was arrested.
Since cops didn't see Angle driving, he was arrested and later charged with being in control of a motor vehicle while intoxicated -- which basically means he was allegedly drunk behind the wheel but not actually driving.
You can click here to see Kurt Angle's mugshot.
Backstage Updates - Awesome Kong/Tyler Black/WWE
-- Former TNA Knockouts champion and current WWE talent Awesome Kong is expected to make her debut shortly after WrestleMania 27, likely within the next month or two. It should be noted that there were plans to have her debut last December but those plans were nixed.
-- As noted earlier here on the website, WWE is looking for a new VP of Talent Relations. This person would work under John Laurinaitis. The spot was formerly held by Ty Bailey. Ty now works for Triple H in a new backstage role.
-- As of this writing, former ROH world champion Tyler Black is slated for the next season of WWE.com's NXT. Of course, things could change.
Backstage Injury Updates - Rey Mysterio & Skip Sheffield
Thanks again for your continued support. You guys kick ass!!
-- Actress Jennifer Hudson recently did an interview with USA Today and noted the following regarding her real-life relationship with WWE star David Otunga yet: "Not yet! I'm engaged. Everything is all ready to go. Originally I wanted the biggest, grandest wedding in the world. Now I don't know."
-- We can report that Rey Mysterio has been receiving cartilage injections in his knee to help him work through an injury that will eventually require surgery. So far, Mysterio has received between 8 and 12 of these shots and says he'll likely get several more following WrestleMania 27.
-- We've also learned that former WWE NXT and Nexus star Skip Sheffield underwent a second surgery to repair a trapped nerve in his injured leg about two months ago. Sheffield is now off crutches and continues to rehab the leg. No word on his return date.
-- Actress Jennifer Hudson recently did an interview with USA Today and noted the following regarding her real-life relationship with WWE star David Otunga yet: "Not yet! I'm engaged. Everything is all ready to go. Originally I wanted the biggest, grandest wedding in the world. Now I don't know."
-- We can report that Rey Mysterio has been receiving cartilage injections in his knee to help him work through an injury that will eventually require surgery. So far, Mysterio has received between 8 and 12 of these shots and says he'll likely get several more following WrestleMania 27.
-- We've also learned that former WWE NXT and Nexus star Skip Sheffield underwent a second surgery to repair a trapped nerve in his injured leg about two months ago. Sheffield is now off crutches and continues to rehab the leg. No word on his return date.
Report: Snooki Causes Major WWE Issues - Drunk
THE FOLLOWING CONTAINS A **SPOILER** FOR THIS MONDAY'S RAW TELECAST:
As noted yesterday here on the website, WWE shot a major angle Wednesday at Miami Mike's Sports Zone in East Hanover, New Jersey involving Nicole "Snooki" Polazzi, Trish Stratus and LayCool for this Monday's RAW. The segment features LayCool searching the bar for Snooki and Stratus. The Jersey Shore star gets into a fight with a "guido" and then LayCool finds her, resulting in a bar-room brawl. Layla and Michelle McCool also went through a table at one point. Fit Finlay and David Kapoor (better known as Ranjin Singh) directed the segment.
In an update on this, filming was delayed from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. because Snooki didn't leave her hotel room until 1:00 p.m. They shot until close to 8:00 p.m.
Snooki was said to have been drinking heavily throughout the day and was rude to people on set. She called the bartender a 'weirdo' and also said she was going to be a full-time WWE Diva once Jersey Shore is finished. She also said she was leaving to go bowling after the segment was finished taping and would return later for more drinks.
CM Punk Says He's A 'Wrestler' - Details
CM Punk wrote the following on Twitter, noting that he is a wrestler…
"No stupid coats. No pyro. No dancers. No bells, no whistles. Never needed it. I am a wrestler."
"No, stupid. Also, to anybody else who said something similar, piss off."
"No stupid coats. No pyro. No dancers. No bells, no whistles. Never needed it. I am a wrestler."
"No, stupid. Also, to anybody else who said something similar, piss off."
Friday, March 25, 2011
Matt Hardy Denies Marriage Rumors + Hogan On A.I Surprise
-- TNA Wrestling Superstar Hulk Hogan made a surprise appearance on tonight's American Idol results show.
Following a segment from the Idol Mansion concerning contestant James Durbin's professional wrestling fanship (which featured the finalist doing an imitation of WWE Superstar The Miz), Hogan appeared in person to inform him and Paul McDonald that they were both safe from elimination. "The Hulkster" then gave a fake punch to host Ryan Seacrest.
-- Matt Hardy is denying that he is engaged to be married to Lucha Libre USA: Masked Warriors personality Reby Sky, a former Playboy model. He claims that it was a joke.
"To set the record straight-6/17 is our 6 month anniversary as a couple & we joked about gettin married-Which some peeps took very serious," he wrote. "And besides, I probably wouldn't ever be able to marry someone as beautiful, lovely, sweet, wonderful, & talented as Reby Sky anyway."
Sky was asked on her Formspring account if she was marrying Hardy and she replied yes (with no hint of joking), including the wedding date. The message has since been deleted and she is now saying that she is not engaged. You can click here to view photos of the couple.
Following a segment from the Idol Mansion concerning contestant James Durbin's professional wrestling fanship (which featured the finalist doing an imitation of WWE Superstar The Miz), Hogan appeared in person to inform him and Paul McDonald that they were both safe from elimination. "The Hulkster" then gave a fake punch to host Ryan Seacrest.
-- Matt Hardy is denying that he is engaged to be married to Lucha Libre USA: Masked Warriors personality Reby Sky, a former Playboy model. He claims that it was a joke.
"To set the record straight-6/17 is our 6 month anniversary as a couple & we joked about gettin married-Which some peeps took very serious," he wrote. "And besides, I probably wouldn't ever be able to marry someone as beautiful, lovely, sweet, wonderful, & talented as Reby Sky anyway."
Sky was asked on her Formspring account if she was marrying Hardy and she replied yes (with no hint of joking), including the wedding date. The message has since been deleted and she is now saying that she is not engaged. You can click here to view photos of the couple.
RAW **SPOILER** - WWE Films Major Angle Yesterday
PopTheCrowd.com reports that WWE shot a major angle yesterday at Miami Mike's Sports Zone in East Hanover, New Jersey involving Nicole "Snooki" Polazzi, Trish Stratus and LayCool for this Monday's RAW.
The segment features LayCool searching the bar for Snooki and Stratus. The Jersey Shore star gets into a fight with a guido and then LayCool finds her, resulting in a brawl. Layla and Michelle McCool also went through a table at one point.
WWE agents/producers Fit Finlay and David Kapoor (better known as Ranjin Singh) directed the segment.
The Rock & John Cena Speak On A Possible Match
Dan Gelston of The Associated Press has an article up hyping WrestleMania 27 and discussing The Rock's WWE return and a possible match. Here are some highlights…
John Cena on The Rock being back: "I can't tell you how much it plugs our product back in. It's like getting hooked up to defibrillators. It's the one little jump-start we needed.
John Cena on a match with The Rock: "I have been willing to do anything for that match. I will do anything for that match. If I have to talk more trash about The Rock, I’m your guy."
John Cena on WrestleMania 27: “WWE will always be the greatest show you’ll ever see.”
The Rock on a possible match: "I've never said never. I'm open to it. For years when I was asked that, I kept my emotions very close to my sleeve. I would say, 'No, I don't see myself wrestling a match,' because I didn't want to leave that open too much. I wanted to make sure I was concentrating solely on my goals in acting. It’s ‘The People’s Era’ that’s getting ready to happen. It’s just beginning.”
John Cena on The Rock being back: "I can't tell you how much it plugs our product back in. It's like getting hooked up to defibrillators. It's the one little jump-start we needed.
John Cena on a match with The Rock: "I have been willing to do anything for that match. I will do anything for that match. If I have to talk more trash about The Rock, I’m your guy."
John Cena on WrestleMania 27: “WWE will always be the greatest show you’ll ever see.”
The Rock on a possible match: "I've never said never. I'm open to it. For years when I was asked that, I kept my emotions very close to my sleeve. I would say, 'No, I don't see myself wrestling a match,' because I didn't want to leave that open too much. I wanted to make sure I was concentrating solely on my goals in acting. It’s ‘The People’s Era’ that’s getting ready to happen. It’s just beginning.”
Backstage Update: Angelina & TNA + RVD Blasts WWE
Partial Source: Pro Wrestling Torch
-- Rob Van Dam stated the following today on Twitter regarding Drew Carey's pending induction into the WWE Hall of Fame: "DREW CAREY GETS INDUCTED INTO THE WWE HALL OF FAME. MAN, I'M GLAD I'M NOT A WWE WRESTLER."
-- Angelina Pivarnick of Jersey Shore fame is training to be a wrestler at the Independent Wrestling Federation (IWF) in Woodland Park, New Jersey. The word within TNA Wrestling is that the company is not paying her to train. Talent are the under impression that she is being trained for free in exchange for the wrestling school receiving notoriety, which is run by Kevin Knight. One TNA source stated that she has been warned to not expect to receiving anything close to the $7,000 payoff she received for appearing at last month's iMPACT! tapings in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
-- Rob Van Dam stated the following today on Twitter regarding Drew Carey's pending induction into the WWE Hall of Fame: "DREW CAREY GETS INDUCTED INTO THE WWE HALL OF FAME. MAN, I'M GLAD I'M NOT A WWE WRESTLER."
-- Angelina Pivarnick of Jersey Shore fame is training to be a wrestler at the Independent Wrestling Federation (IWF) in Woodland Park, New Jersey. The word within TNA Wrestling is that the company is not paying her to train. Talent are the under impression that she is being trained for free in exchange for the wrestling school receiving notoriety, which is run by Kevin Knight. One TNA source stated that she has been warned to not expect to receiving anything close to the $7,000 payoff she received for appearing at last month's iMPACT! tapings in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Matt Hardy Engaged To Be Married
-- Lucha Libre USA: Masked Warriors personality Reby Sky, a former Playboy model, revealed on her Formspring account that she and Matt Hardy are engaged to be married. A wedding is set for June 17. The two have been dating since January. You can click here to view photos of the happy couple together.
Report: WWE Star To Retire Shortly?
-- Mark Henry indicated during an interview with The West Australian that he plans to retire from in-ring competition within the next 18 months despite having "a good three years left."
"The World's Stongest Man" also said there isn't much friendship behind the scenes amongst wrestlers and that when he departs, he hopes someone will take his role of trying to step in to smooth down incidents on the road.
"The World's Stongest Man" also said there isn't much friendship behind the scenes amongst wrestlers and that when he departs, he hopes someone will take his role of trying to step in to smooth down incidents on the road.
Shawn Michaels Speaks Out - WrestleMania & More
Shawn Michaels was recently interviewed by The Score in Canada. Here are the highlights…
On Working WrestleMania 14: "Yeah. Yeah it was. I wasn't in a good place physically, obviously. But also mentally. It was just bad, all around. It was the culmination of a lot of things - a lot of bad things. And I would love to tell everybody that I was faking - and fooling - everybody, but it was a pretty rough day at the office, to say the least. And I guess, because I was in such a horrible place at that time, I never really envisioned people really grasping the fact that - 'holy cow man, I don't care if I don't like him, that dude is beating the heck out of himself and he's not in any shape to be doing it'. Over time, people now get it. But when you're doing it, you don't realize that people are sort of uncomfortable watching you while you're doing it."
On The Lack Of Pressure At WrestleMania 22: "What I really enjoyed about that WrestleMania is that I didn't feel the pressure as I did in every other one. Because that one wasn't so much - 'hey, Shawn Michaels has got to be Mr. WrestleMania and steal the show' - because I was in there with Vince McMahon, I don't think people expect a phenomenal wrestling match. Just from a pressure standpoint, that being off my shoulders allowed me the fact the enjoy that I was out there with my boss and I get to beat the heck out of him."
On Working WrestleMania 14: "Yeah. Yeah it was. I wasn't in a good place physically, obviously. But also mentally. It was just bad, all around. It was the culmination of a lot of things - a lot of bad things. And I would love to tell everybody that I was faking - and fooling - everybody, but it was a pretty rough day at the office, to say the least. And I guess, because I was in such a horrible place at that time, I never really envisioned people really grasping the fact that - 'holy cow man, I don't care if I don't like him, that dude is beating the heck out of himself and he's not in any shape to be doing it'. Over time, people now get it. But when you're doing it, you don't realize that people are sort of uncomfortable watching you while you're doing it."
On The Lack Of Pressure At WrestleMania 22: "What I really enjoyed about that WrestleMania is that I didn't feel the pressure as I did in every other one. Because that one wasn't so much - 'hey, Shawn Michaels has got to be Mr. WrestleMania and steal the show' - because I was in there with Vince McMahon, I don't think people expect a phenomenal wrestling match. Just from a pressure standpoint, that being off my shoulders allowed me the fact the enjoy that I was out there with my boss and I get to beat the heck out of him."
Sin Cara Headed To RAW Next Week, Punk/Cara Feud
Sin Cara will be working Monday's RAW tapings, but it will likely be a dark match.
Sin Cara vs. CM Punk is scheduled for the May tour of Mexico.
Some talents are not happy about Sin Cara being brought up to the main roster right away. More on that shortly.
'Bullet' Bob Armstrong Speaks Out - HOF Induction, Sons
"Bullet" Bob Armstrong was recently on Ringside Talk with Scott Fishman, here are the highlights…
On Going Into The WWE Hall of Fame: "When they called me and told me I was being inducted, I thought they had the wrong number because I really didn't expect this in a million years. It means an awful lot to me. You know what means a lot to me is my sons. All four of my sons are going to present me with that ring and induction plaque. That will mean a lot to me to have my sons there to give it to me."
On His Sons Going Into Wrestling: "I'm just like the other fathers in that I didn't want them to go through the pain and suffering that I did, but I wouldn't change a thing. I'm put together with pins, screws and clamps, but at Andrews Institute every time they have operated on me it's been a success, and I'm still standing. My boys came to me one at a time and I said to them, "Are you sure son? There are a lot easier occupations out there that you could do." They would have nothing else. They would watch it on TV from the time they were small kids. They would try every move. They would drop elbows on each other from the kitchen table. They would suplex on the living room furniture. My wife had to referee that and straighten them out. I understood she had the best wristlock in the business because when she hooked them up to spank that fanny, there was no escape."
On Working With His Sons: "They are all different and have different styles. I took Brad under my wing at 18 when he started and was 210 pounds. He was a pretty tough character, so I figured he do alright with my guidance. Sure enough when he was 19 we won the national [tag team] championships. They had 22 teams from New Zealand, Australia, Japan, South America. They brought them all into the old Omni in Atlanta, and sure enough, we came out on top."
On Going Into The WWE Hall of Fame: "When they called me and told me I was being inducted, I thought they had the wrong number because I really didn't expect this in a million years. It means an awful lot to me. You know what means a lot to me is my sons. All four of my sons are going to present me with that ring and induction plaque. That will mean a lot to me to have my sons there to give it to me."
On His Sons Going Into Wrestling: "I'm just like the other fathers in that I didn't want them to go through the pain and suffering that I did, but I wouldn't change a thing. I'm put together with pins, screws and clamps, but at Andrews Institute every time they have operated on me it's been a success, and I'm still standing. My boys came to me one at a time and I said to them, "Are you sure son? There are a lot easier occupations out there that you could do." They would have nothing else. They would watch it on TV from the time they were small kids. They would try every move. They would drop elbows on each other from the kitchen table. They would suplex on the living room furniture. My wife had to referee that and straighten them out. I understood she had the best wristlock in the business because when she hooked them up to spank that fanny, there was no escape."
On Working With His Sons: "They are all different and have different styles. I took Brad under my wing at 18 when he started and was 210 pounds. He was a pretty tough character, so I figured he do alright with my guidance. Sure enough when he was 19 we won the national [tag team] championships. They had 22 teams from New Zealand, Australia, Japan, South America. They brought them all into the old Omni in Atlanta, and sure enough, we came out on top."
The Rock Speaks Out - Post-WrestleMania Plans, Return
The Rock recently spoke about his WWE return, here is what he had to say….
Why Did He Return?: "This opportunity came along and it felt right and I felt we could do something that's never been done. They've never had a host at Wrestlemania. And as a performer, the adrenaline rush and excitement to host 75-80,000 people, in the Georgia Dome? S—! There's nothing like it."
On The Night He Returned: "When my music hit, going out…. It was f—ing incredible. That night was the greatest Raw moment I've ever experienced. And that's saying a lot. I've had the privilege of working with a lot of icons in the WWE. The goosebumps never left my body during that monologue."
What Is His Role With WWE, Post WM?: "It's all up in the air. It depends on what makes sense to the audience. You always think audience first. Much like this return to wrestling, I'm always looking forward to do big and better. [Laughs]...After Wrestlemania, you'll see what I'm talking about… Coming back into the business, I wanted to partner up with [WWE chairman and CEO] Vince [McMahon] and create something special that's never been done that's big on a global scale. And hosting Wrestlemania answered that. In addition to that, it's not only hosting. It's evolved into me whopping somebody's ass. I'm looking to do something big and special with Vince after Wrestlemania."
Why Did He Return?: "This opportunity came along and it felt right and I felt we could do something that's never been done. They've never had a host at Wrestlemania. And as a performer, the adrenaline rush and excitement to host 75-80,000 people, in the Georgia Dome? S—! There's nothing like it."
On The Night He Returned: "When my music hit, going out…. It was f—ing incredible. That night was the greatest Raw moment I've ever experienced. And that's saying a lot. I've had the privilege of working with a lot of icons in the WWE. The goosebumps never left my body during that monologue."
What Is His Role With WWE, Post WM?: "It's all up in the air. It depends on what makes sense to the audience. You always think audience first. Much like this return to wrestling, I'm always looking forward to do big and better. [Laughs]...After Wrestlemania, you'll see what I'm talking about… Coming back into the business, I wanted to partner up with [WWE chairman and CEO] Vince [McMahon] and create something special that's never been done that's big on a global scale. And hosting Wrestlemania answered that. In addition to that, it's not only hosting. It's evolved into me whopping somebody's ass. I'm looking to do something big and special with Vince after Wrestlemania."
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Kevin Nash Tweets On WCW Past
-- On his Twitter page @RealKevinNash today, Nash commented on the 10 year anniversary of WCW being bought out by the then-WWF.
He said: "I feel I helped make it the number one promotion jn (sic) the world.AOL stock crashing during the dot com crash was the bullet to it's heart"
It's worth nothing that AOL went into their merger with Time Warner on a good deal (which is how they were able to buy out a company bigger than they were), and the stock actually went up after their merger with that company. At that time , AOL only wanted divisions that were assets, and WCW was losing money constantly due to poor creative decisions and large contracts so they were sold before the merger went down.
Ex-WWE Divas Drinking & Partying
-- Former World Wrestling Entertainment Diva, Playboy cover model and Celebrity Apprentice contestant Maria Kanellis proudly announced today the release of her signature perfume line, Maria Kanellis Signature Perfumes. The perfume comes in three unique scents; Sandalwood, Mimosa and Ylang Ylang. The perfume is available for purchase at http://kaponga.com/categories/ It costs $11.95.
-- Speaking of Maria, she was spotted at a nightclub this past Saturday night with ex-WWE Divas Ashley Massaro, Tiffany, Katie Lea Burchill and others. They were drinking and dancing throughout the night. You can click here to view 25 new look photos of all the ex-WWE divas drinking and partying.
WWE's Production Crew Arrives In Atlanta + HOF **SPOILER**
-- The official Twitter account of the Georgia Dome said yesterday that WWE crew members have arrived in Atlanta to begin preparation for WrestleMania XXVII.
-- The Road Warriors, Animal and Hawk, are expected to be announced as inductees into the WWE Hall of Fame 2011 Class during next week's RAW in Chicago, Illinois.
Promoting The Road Warriors: Danger, Death, and the Rush of Wrestling on Monday Night Mayhem, Animal commented on rumors of the duo being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
“I don't know man. Have I envisioned it? Yeah. You always want to be in there, and you want to be recognized for your trade," he said. "I thought I was going in last year. I thought I was going in the year before that and the year before that. I thought 'What are they waiting for here?' But who knows man. Most of the time, the wrestlers are the last ones to find out anything. The thing I know for sure is that I'm going in the Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame in (Amsterdam) New York in May."
-- The Road Warriors, Animal and Hawk, are expected to be announced as inductees into the WWE Hall of Fame 2011 Class during next week's RAW in Chicago, Illinois.
Promoting The Road Warriors: Danger, Death, and the Rush of Wrestling on Monday Night Mayhem, Animal commented on rumors of the duo being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
“I don't know man. Have I envisioned it? Yeah. You always want to be in there, and you want to be recognized for your trade," he said. "I thought I was going in last year. I thought I was going in the year before that and the year before that. I thought 'What are they waiting for here?' But who knows man. Most of the time, the wrestlers are the last ones to find out anything. The thing I know for sure is that I'm going in the Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame in (Amsterdam) New York in May."
Ashley Massaro Update, Piper-WrestleMania, Tomko
-- Former WWE talent Ray Gordy (a/k/a Jesse) turns 32 years old today, while Tyson Tomko turns 35. Also, former WCW talent Midajah turns 38.
-- As we noted yesterday here on the website, WWE Hall of Famer "Rowdy" Roddy Piper has canceled his planned comedy performances on Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2 in Atlanta, Georgia in order to appear for World Wrestling Entertainment functions WrestleMania XXVII weekend. He will, however, still perform on Thursday, March 31 at The Punchline. Piper announced yesterday that Sgt. Slaughter would appear at the event.
-- Former WWE Diva Ashley Massaro has been announced for K & S presents Super Saturday taking place April 9 at the Ramada Philadelphia Airport 76 Industrial Hwy. Essington, Pennsylvania. The one-time Playboy cover girl will also be filming a shoot interview with Highspots.com that weekend in which she discusses her involvement with the professional wrestling industry. Fans can submit questions to Highspots@aol.com.
-- As we noted yesterday here on the website, WWE Hall of Famer "Rowdy" Roddy Piper has canceled his planned comedy performances on Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2 in Atlanta, Georgia in order to appear for World Wrestling Entertainment functions WrestleMania XXVII weekend. He will, however, still perform on Thursday, March 31 at The Punchline. Piper announced yesterday that Sgt. Slaughter would appear at the event.
-- Former WWE Diva Ashley Massaro has been announced for K & S presents Super Saturday taking place April 9 at the Ramada Philadelphia Airport 76 Industrial Hwy. Essington, Pennsylvania. The one-time Playboy cover girl will also be filming a shoot interview with Highspots.com that weekend in which she discusses her involvement with the professional wrestling industry. Fans can submit questions to Highspots@aol.com.
Roddy Piper Speaks Out - WrestleMania Angle, WWE HOF, More
Roddy Piper was recently on Right After Wrestling, here are the highlights…
On His Idea For This Year's WM: "I did shoot an idea to the WWE. I said put Cena & The Rock in Piper's Pit at WrestleMania. Because I knew he wouldn't wrestle but everybody would wanna see him. They should use people who have given to the business - like The Rock, like myself - who are powerful enough to entertain. Instead of just putting in Snooki."
On His WM 2 Boxing Match: "It was one of the worst matches of my life. Why? In that match with Mr. T, they didn't trust me. I had done some boxing. I trained for 5 weeks for this fight. They taped my fists up solid and then put it in the gloves. He was scarred. At the end of the day it was my fault, let's make that clear. Those boxing gloves are thumbless. Mr. T was supposed to throw a left-cross. They asked me for a little show-business. So when he threw the left, I was supposed to go through the ropes to the floor. But when he threw it, he missed. He was all tired. They really protected him. We got an old saying, I would rather you punch my teeth down my throat then throw a popcorn punch!"
On The WWE Hall of Fame: "The acts I did were to further the business. It took a lot of balls to say you're not pinning my shoulders at Wrestlemania. I was protecting the business. You never let somebody come from outside the business, have their way with the business and then leave the next day and laugh at you. How the hell does David Arquette become World Champion. Maybe you can have - in the Hall of fame - the lifetime achievement award. Bob Uecker would fit in right there. It's the way you categorize it I think. Because there were guys who got stabbed 3 times to get into that Hall of Fame!"
On His Idea For This Year's WM: "I did shoot an idea to the WWE. I said put Cena & The Rock in Piper's Pit at WrestleMania. Because I knew he wouldn't wrestle but everybody would wanna see him. They should use people who have given to the business - like The Rock, like myself - who are powerful enough to entertain. Instead of just putting in Snooki."
On His WM 2 Boxing Match: "It was one of the worst matches of my life. Why? In that match with Mr. T, they didn't trust me. I had done some boxing. I trained for 5 weeks for this fight. They taped my fists up solid and then put it in the gloves. He was scarred. At the end of the day it was my fault, let's make that clear. Those boxing gloves are thumbless. Mr. T was supposed to throw a left-cross. They asked me for a little show-business. So when he threw the left, I was supposed to go through the ropes to the floor. But when he threw it, he missed. He was all tired. They really protected him. We got an old saying, I would rather you punch my teeth down my throat then throw a popcorn punch!"
On The WWE Hall of Fame: "The acts I did were to further the business. It took a lot of balls to say you're not pinning my shoulders at Wrestlemania. I was protecting the business. You never let somebody come from outside the business, have their way with the business and then leave the next day and laugh at you. How the hell does David Arquette become World Champion. Maybe you can have - in the Hall of fame - the lifetime achievement award. Bob Uecker would fit in right there. It's the way you categorize it I think. Because there were guys who got stabbed 3 times to get into that Hall of Fame!"
Joey Styles Ridicules WWE For WCW Failure - Details
Ten years ago today, World Wrestling Entertainment announced the purchase of World Championship Wrestling from Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. WWE Director of Digital Media Content Joey Styles took to Twitter to chastise his employer for botching the subsequent "Invasion" storyline.
He wrote, "10 years ago today WWF bought WCW...tried a WCW vs. WWF story without Flair, Sting, Nash, Goldberg, etc...BOMB! Then tried WWECW...BIG BOMB!"
It is widely believed that WWE cost themselves millions of dollars by not utilizing big-name WCW talent for the storyline, such as Hulk Hogan, Bill Goldberg, Sting and Lex Luger.
He wrote, "10 years ago today WWF bought WCW...tried a WCW vs. WWF story without Flair, Sting, Nash, Goldberg, etc...BOMB! Then tried WWECW...BIG BOMB!"
It is widely believed that WWE cost themselves millions of dollars by not utilizing big-name WCW talent for the storyline, such as Hulk Hogan, Bill Goldberg, Sting and Lex Luger.
Y2J Compares DWTS/WWE
-- Chris Jericho recently told Digitalspy.com the following: "It's funny because when there are a lot of things about [dancing and wrestling] that are similar. There's a lot of leverage and weight distribution and balance. Then there's performing in front of a live crowd, your marks, choreography and as a musician, following the beat. It's not that foreign as it seems at first. The training's really hard. It's probably the hardest training I've ever done, but it's not futile. There are moves in dancing that I've never done before - you're turning your knee outwards, your elbow on the side. And hunching over - dancing's very elongated, very regal. Your neck stretches, your shoulders are down. So I'm focusing on getting rid of those bad habits."
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
**SPOILERS** WWE SD! Results For Friday
* Booker T comes out to an amazing pop. Cole comes out to heat.
* Smackdown starts off with a backstage segment where Teddy Long is telling Edge that if he or Alberto Del Rio touch either other before Wrestlemania they will both be banned from the event.
* Rey Mysterio b. CM Punk
- Rey had a quick start to the match then missed a flying cross body allowing CM to control. Punk mainly focusing attacks on the ribs of Rey. Eventually he goes for an attack off the ropes but Rey countered with a dropkick to gain the upper-hand. Rey hit CM with an Asia moonsault. Cody Rhodes comes in as a distraction and the match ends in disqualification. Rey is helped out of the ring by officials.
* Edge and Christian are shown backstage. Edge says he's still going to be in the corner for Christian tonight. He walks away.
* Edge vs. Drew McIntyre
- As soon as the bell ring Edge goes after Drew. Drew quickly gains the upper-hand working on Edge's arm. Edge eventually gains control and wins via his finished. After the match Edge connects with a spear.
* LayCool b. Rosa Mendez & Kelly Kelly
- Layla has the Snooki hair do and they were both fist pumping they are also not even wearing their ring gear. Rosa and Kelly go straight for the attack. Quick match ending when Layla hits a reverse neck breaker for the win. After the match Laycool cut a quick promo saying that their opponents for Wrestlemania are no challenge.
* Wade Barrett b. Kofi Kingston to win the Intercontinental Championship.
- Kofi was going for trouble in paradise but ref got distracted. He connected trouble on heath allowing Wade to hit wasteland following a pinfall. After the match Justin hit a 450 splash.
* Teddy Long & Albero Del Rio are backstage.
* Undertaker is on stage cutting a promo. He says that Triple H has figured out how to win. He then says he can't wait till Monday to tell Triple H what he thinks.
* Jake Swagger b. R-Truth
- R-Truth had a close call... He launched himself over top rope and it looked like Swagger barely caught him. Quick match winner via ankle lock, Swagger.
* Christian w/ Edge b. Alberto Del Rio
- Alberto has Brodus Clay with him. During the match Brodus attacked Edge on the outside. Edge returns the favor with spear then attacks him with a chair. This distracts Alberto allowing Christian to hit the Kill Switch for the win. Edge looks like hes gonna attack Alberto with the chair but Christian stops him. He hits Alberto with the chair instead. That concludes this week's SmackDown.
* Smackdown starts off with a backstage segment where Teddy Long is telling Edge that if he or Alberto Del Rio touch either other before Wrestlemania they will both be banned from the event.
* Rey Mysterio b. CM Punk
- Rey had a quick start to the match then missed a flying cross body allowing CM to control. Punk mainly focusing attacks on the ribs of Rey. Eventually he goes for an attack off the ropes but Rey countered with a dropkick to gain the upper-hand. Rey hit CM with an Asia moonsault. Cody Rhodes comes in as a distraction and the match ends in disqualification. Rey is helped out of the ring by officials.
* Edge and Christian are shown backstage. Edge says he's still going to be in the corner for Christian tonight. He walks away.
* Edge vs. Drew McIntyre
- As soon as the bell ring Edge goes after Drew. Drew quickly gains the upper-hand working on Edge's arm. Edge eventually gains control and wins via his finished. After the match Edge connects with a spear.
* LayCool b. Rosa Mendez & Kelly Kelly
- Layla has the Snooki hair do and they were both fist pumping they are also not even wearing their ring gear. Rosa and Kelly go straight for the attack. Quick match ending when Layla hits a reverse neck breaker for the win. After the match Laycool cut a quick promo saying that their opponents for Wrestlemania are no challenge.
* Wade Barrett b. Kofi Kingston to win the Intercontinental Championship.
- Kofi was going for trouble in paradise but ref got distracted. He connected trouble on heath allowing Wade to hit wasteland following a pinfall. After the match Justin hit a 450 splash.
* Teddy Long & Albero Del Rio are backstage.
* Undertaker is on stage cutting a promo. He says that Triple H has figured out how to win. He then says he can't wait till Monday to tell Triple H what he thinks.
* Jake Swagger b. R-Truth
- R-Truth had a close call... He launched himself over top rope and it looked like Swagger barely caught him. Quick match winner via ankle lock, Swagger.
* Christian w/ Edge b. Alberto Del Rio
- Alberto has Brodus Clay with him. During the match Brodus attacked Edge on the outside. Edge returns the favor with spear then attacks him with a chair. This distracts Alberto allowing Christian to hit the Kill Switch for the win. Edge looks like hes gonna attack Alberto with the chair but Christian stops him. He hits Alberto with the chair instead. That concludes this week's SmackDown.
More On The RAW Rating + The Rock's Next Film?
-- Dwayne Johnson is close to securing a deal to star in the action film Snitch. Johnson would play a father who goes undercover to nab a drug dealer in hopes that the jail sentence for his son gets reduced. It would begin filming this June.
-- As noted earlier here on the website, last night's episode of Monday Night RAW scored a 3.3 cable rating, down from last week's 3.64 and a prior three week average of 3.85. Overall viewership was down 12% from last week as the show drew 5.1 million viewers compared to 5.8. RAW drew hours of 3.28 and 3.41.
John Cena: HBK Didn't Like Me At First, Wife, More
John Cena participated in a sitdown interview with Madison Square Garden correspondent Alex Iglesias prior to Saturday night's RAW live event at the venue. Highlights are as follows:
-- Cena says that while Shawn Michaels is his all-time favorite tag team partner, it took time for the two to become friends.
"He was one of those guys that - when I started - wasn't too fond of me, but we ended up actually becoming really good friends," Cena said. "The fact that I was fortunate enough to hold the Tag Team Championships, even though it was for a short amount of time, was my most memorable."
-- Cena commented on Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's return to WWE.
He said, "I've wanted him to come back for five years now. I'm glad he's finally back. I just hope he sticks around. I guess time will tell."
-- Regarding Nicole "Snooki" Polazzi's involvement at WrestleMania XXVII, he said, "I've seen her get in some crazy situations on that television show. She will be just fine. If she goes out there and is just herself, she will make a WrestleMania Moment."
-- When asked if his wife gets upset with his strenuous road schedule with WWE, Cena said, "She does. But, we've known each other for quite some time. She knows that's the way I'm built."
He added that he prioritizes things as "work first and everything else will sort itself out."
This Week's RAW Rating Is In
-- This week's edition of WWE RAW drew a 3.3 cable rating, with 5.1 million viewers. More shortly.
Stacy Keibler Helping Y2J
-- Chris Jericho recently told Eonline.com that Stacy Keibler has been helping him out with Dancing with the Stars: “Stacy Keibler is a really good friend of mine, and she has kind of helped me out a little bit. Basically, it’s all the same thing: That you have to be in this 100 percent, because it is the most physically and mentally demanding thing you will ever do—and so far she has been right.”
Bret Hart Not A Fan Of RAW
-- The Rock tweeted the following last night following RAW: “Great ending on RAW tonight….I promise RAW in CHICAGO next week will be electrified like you haven’t seen in years…in years.”
-- Bret Hart posted the following on Twitter… "Tried watching Raw. The writing's been sub-par for WM buildup."
-- Bret Hart posted the following on Twitter… "Tried watching Raw. The writing's been sub-par for WM buildup."
Cena Injured
-- WWE RAW is in Chicago, IL next week. In addition to The Rock appearing live on the show, it is expected that the Road Warriors will be announced for the WWE Hall of Fame.
-- John Cena tweeted the following last night following RAW: “CeNation. Fear in the eyes of the miz tonite. He now knows WM will not be a Gimmie. Rock at Raw next mon live. Do not miss it. Yes miz tried to scratch me. A tactic uses mostly in cat fights. he was given a haymaker for his efforts. Then he ran. Dauwsh.”
Eve Torres' RAW Bodyguard, Cena/Rock In The Pit?, More
-- The bodyguard restraining Divas Champion Eve from attacking Michael Cole on RAW was independent wrestler Chad Williams. He appears for Absolute Intense Wrestling, a promotion in Ohio.
-- Michael Cole noted on RAW that he has opened an account on Twitter—which has also been verified. He claims "suits" ordered him to open an account in spite of his hatred for the microblogging service. You can view his Twitter account at http://twitter.com/MichaelCole
-- Roddy Piper posted on Twitter that he wants to host a Piper's Pit with the Rock and John Cena.
-- Rey Mysterio is featured on the cover of the latest issue of WWE Kids Magazine.
-- Michael Cole noted on RAW that he has opened an account on Twitter—which has also been verified. He claims "suits" ordered him to open an account in spite of his hatred for the microblogging service. You can view his Twitter account at http://twitter.com/MichaelCole
-- Roddy Piper posted on Twitter that he wants to host a Piper's Pit with the Rock and John Cena.
-- Rey Mysterio is featured on the cover of the latest issue of WWE Kids Magazine.
JR-Cole-Lawler-RAW
-- Jim Ross wrote a kayfabe response to Michael Cole's remarks concerning Jerry Lawler's family on Raw. "Feel so bad 4 King," he wrote on Twitter. "Both his Mom & Dad have passed. Jerrys Mom a few wks ago. Jerrys Dad was buried on King's 19th B-Day. This is too much."
WWE Divas Watch Y2J Dance
-- Former WWE, WCW and AWA talent Wayne Bloom (a/k/a Beau Beverly) celebrates his 53rd birthday today.
-- Following Chris Jericho's debut performance on ABC's Dancing with the Stars on Monday, WWE Divas Alicia Fox, Brie Bella and Nikki Bella were shown clapping amongst the audience. Obviously they were not at RAW as DWTS airs live.
-- Following Chris Jericho's debut performance on ABC's Dancing with the Stars on Monday, WWE Divas Alicia Fox, Brie Bella and Nikki Bella were shown clapping amongst the audience. Obviously they were not at RAW as DWTS airs live.
Balls Mahoney: The Night I Blew Up At Kevin Thorn
On episode #10 of the WNS Podcast for Wrestling News Source, Danny Ray, Jordan Landry and Tyler Abear interview ECW Original Balls Mahoney. Among the topics discussed are Mahoney's upcoming "fans bring the weapons" match vs. Lenn Oddity at Death Match Tournament LIVE Sat. April 2nd at NJN Studios 25 South Stockton Street - Trenton, NJ 08608!
During the interview Balls Mahoney revealed the last time he got mad at somebody for their in-ring actions was in WWE (ECW) against Kevin Thorn who knocked his tooth out. He notes that after a couple squash matches he was asked to go against Kevin Thorn to put him over - Mahoney said: "He (Thorn) beat the f*ck out of me, from the first time he touched me...I mean physically beat the sh*t out of me". He said that Scott Armstrong the referee for the bout was also concerned about the aggressiveness of Thorn and as the bout continued Thorn went against the planned finished and elbowed Mahoney in the neck and jaw resulting in Balls losing a tooth which left him not being able to breath. The match was brought to a close but not before Thorn press his arm across Mahoney's throat and swished his face.
Mahoney went on to reveal that backstage he blew up at Thorn and gave him a piece of his mind to an onlooking lockeroom including JBL who was looking for Mahoney to fight Thorn but he refrained as he didn't want to lose his job. Concluding Mahoney revealed there is no heat between the two now and that Thorn is a good worker. He did however note one backstage WWE agent took pleasure in the whole situation and said he won't reveal his name but "I'm not Sid Vicious and I am not going to stab this guy with a scissor I will f*cking shoot him", an obvious hint at Arn Anderson.
Balls also talks about crazy bumps, injuries and his most violent matches.
You can listen to the full Ball's Mahoney interview here / Right Click, Save As (.mp3): http://podcast.wrestling-radio.com/
During the interview Balls Mahoney revealed the last time he got mad at somebody for their in-ring actions was in WWE (ECW) against Kevin Thorn who knocked his tooth out. He notes that after a couple squash matches he was asked to go against Kevin Thorn to put him over - Mahoney said: "He (Thorn) beat the f*ck out of me, from the first time he touched me...I mean physically beat the sh*t out of me". He said that Scott Armstrong the referee for the bout was also concerned about the aggressiveness of Thorn and as the bout continued Thorn went against the planned finished and elbowed Mahoney in the neck and jaw resulting in Balls losing a tooth which left him not being able to breath. The match was brought to a close but not before Thorn press his arm across Mahoney's throat and swished his face.
Mahoney went on to reveal that backstage he blew up at Thorn and gave him a piece of his mind to an onlooking lockeroom including JBL who was looking for Mahoney to fight Thorn but he refrained as he didn't want to lose his job. Concluding Mahoney revealed there is no heat between the two now and that Thorn is a good worker. He did however note one backstage WWE agent took pleasure in the whole situation and said he won't reveal his name but "I'm not Sid Vicious and I am not going to stab this guy with a scissor I will f*cking shoot him", an obvious hint at Arn Anderson.
Balls also talks about crazy bumps, injuries and his most violent matches.
You can listen to the full Ball's Mahoney interview here / Right Click, Save As (.mp3): http://podcast.wrestling-radio.com/
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Sunny Tweets On WWE Return
-- As noted earlier here on the website, Sunny made a surprise appearance at Saturday night's RAW live event at Madison Square Garden in New York City as the 2011 WWE Hall of Famer was the special guest referee for a tag team match pitting Kelly Kelly and Eve vs. The Bella Twins. She took to Facebook to comment on her appearance, and is hoping that there is more in store.
"Very big thanks to (Vince McMahon), (John Laurinaitis), and the WWE for having me back at MSG tonight....see you all in 2 weeks at the HOF and WM!!" she wrote last night. "Let's hope it's the start of more great things to come!!"
For those interested, you can click here to view 14 photos of Sunny's WWE return at the Madison Square Garden live event on Saturday night.
"Very big thanks to (Vince McMahon), (John Laurinaitis), and the WWE for having me back at MSG tonight....see you all in 2 weeks at the HOF and WM!!" she wrote last night. "Let's hope it's the start of more great things to come!!"
For those interested, you can click here to view 14 photos of Sunny's WWE return at the Madison Square Garden live event on Saturday night.
Last Week's SD! Rating + Heyman-TNA, Borash-JR, More
-- The March 18 episode of WWE Friday Night SmackDown brought in 3,097,000 viewers and did a 2.06 (2.1) cable rating.
-- The UK newspaper The Sun posted an interview with Jeremy Borash where he spoke about Paul Heyman to TNA, Jim Ross and more. Check out the highlights:
On Jim Ross: "To me, he is the greatest of all time. If you can hear a guy that can bring excitement to a call, adds to the attraction rather than subtracts. "I think he is not given any sort of respect up there (in WWE). At least the respect he deserves. As an announcer, I'm personally offended by it. To me he is the greatest of all time and deserves to be treated that way. If we are going to treat Ric Flair like we treat Ric Flair because he's the greatest of all time then we should do it for Jim Ross too, because to me there has been no-one better. I hear stories about what's going on. Nightmares. To me as an announcer, that pisses me off. Big time."
On Paul Heyman: "When Paul was calling the shots (in ECW) and Paul had everything under control he aged himself about 30 years in the span of five, but he also could do things the way he wanted, and lived by his own rules. Unfortunately today that is impossible. You can't use copywritten music on your television show and get away with any more. You wouldn't see November Rain, great video as it was. You'd be sued and it would never make the air. Believe me, if we didn't have a bank of lawyers and a corporate office to answer to, I'd be running the show just the same way. Renegade, on the fly, go by your own whims. That's how Paul succeeded, when can call the shots and make his own decisions. Now, on the flip side, you don't want him handling your money. His place to shine is creative. In this day and age we have people who handle the money and people who handle the creative. For Paul coming in, if there was ever a political situation where it would have worked, this would have been it. But he has a reputation to protect and I don't think he'd doing anything going in thinking there's a chance he wouldn't succeed. I think in his life he's pretty content where he's at. I would have loved to have been part of a Paul Heyman era in TNA. Maybe someday it will happen."
-- The UK newspaper The Sun posted an interview with Jeremy Borash where he spoke about Paul Heyman to TNA, Jim Ross and more. Check out the highlights:
On Jim Ross: "To me, he is the greatest of all time. If you can hear a guy that can bring excitement to a call, adds to the attraction rather than subtracts. "I think he is not given any sort of respect up there (in WWE). At least the respect he deserves. As an announcer, I'm personally offended by it. To me he is the greatest of all time and deserves to be treated that way. If we are going to treat Ric Flair like we treat Ric Flair because he's the greatest of all time then we should do it for Jim Ross too, because to me there has been no-one better. I hear stories about what's going on. Nightmares. To me as an announcer, that pisses me off. Big time."
On Paul Heyman: "When Paul was calling the shots (in ECW) and Paul had everything under control he aged himself about 30 years in the span of five, but he also could do things the way he wanted, and lived by his own rules. Unfortunately today that is impossible. You can't use copywritten music on your television show and get away with any more. You wouldn't see November Rain, great video as it was. You'd be sued and it would never make the air. Believe me, if we didn't have a bank of lawyers and a corporate office to answer to, I'd be running the show just the same way. Renegade, on the fly, go by your own whims. That's how Paul succeeded, when can call the shots and make his own decisions. Now, on the flip side, you don't want him handling your money. His place to shine is creative. In this day and age we have people who handle the money and people who handle the creative. For Paul coming in, if there was ever a political situation where it would have worked, this would have been it. But he has a reputation to protect and I don't think he'd doing anything going in thinking there's a chance he wouldn't succeed. I think in his life he's pretty content where he's at. I would have loved to have been part of a Paul Heyman era in TNA. Maybe someday it will happen."
Trish Stratus: Chyna Should Be Inducted Into WWE HOF
IGN.com has an interview with multi-time WWE Women's Champion Trish Stratus promoting the USA Network's revival of WWE Tough Enough, who appears as a trainer on the show. She notes that many of the contestants have previous wrestling experience.
"A lot of the contestants have a background," Stratus said. "They come from wrestling backgrounds. They've been doing it for a few years, but it's an entirely different thing to be doing it on the big stage and to do it professionally and to do it with the grind of the big WWE machine."
Stratus said of current WWE talent, Natalya is "untapped."
She explained, "Fans are starting to get to know her more and more and I'm just waiting for the day where she goes out there and really can do her thing because I don't think she's been given the opportunity to really get out there and show everybody what she's got."
In light of Sunny's induction into this year's WWE Hall of Fame class, Stratus suggested that Chyna be enshrined next.
"I think Chyna should be next in because she did a lot of stuff to bring attention to the women's division itself and just presented women as a different thing," Stratus said. "I think fans were conditioned to see women as eye candy for a long, long time and she really broke the mold with that."
Stratus also discusses her favorite opponent, her favorite WrestleMania match, incorporating yoga into the Tough Enough contestants' warming up regimen, as well as the program. The article can be read at http://uk.tv.ign.com/
"A lot of the contestants have a background," Stratus said. "They come from wrestling backgrounds. They've been doing it for a few years, but it's an entirely different thing to be doing it on the big stage and to do it professionally and to do it with the grind of the big WWE machine."
Stratus said of current WWE talent, Natalya is "untapped."
She explained, "Fans are starting to get to know her more and more and I'm just waiting for the day where she goes out there and really can do her thing because I don't think she's been given the opportunity to really get out there and show everybody what she's got."
In light of Sunny's induction into this year's WWE Hall of Fame class, Stratus suggested that Chyna be enshrined next.
"I think Chyna should be next in because she did a lot of stuff to bring attention to the women's division itself and just presented women as a different thing," Stratus said. "I think fans were conditioned to see women as eye candy for a long, long time and she really broke the mold with that."
Stratus also discusses her favorite opponent, her favorite WrestleMania match, incorporating yoga into the Tough Enough contestants' warming up regimen, as well as the program. The article can be read at http://uk.tv.ign.com/
TNA Star Featured In WWE Ad, Brodus Clay-WWE Update
-- The latest issue of WWE Magazine includes a one page advertisement promoting "The Road To WrestleMania XXVII" on WWE Classics On Demand and a large photo of TNA star Hulk Hogan is solely featured. Speaking of the video on demand service, next month's theme is dubbed "Over the Top" as outrageous Superstars and unusual matches will be featured.
-- Brodus Clay, who debuted two weeks ago on RAW as the bodyguard of Alberto Del Rio, is now officially a member of the SmackDown! roster. The NXT Season 4 contestant has been added to the Superstars page on WWE.com.
-- WWE Legends Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake and Greg Valentine have been announced for the Boston Comic Con at the Hynes Convention Center 900 Boylston St. Boston, MA. The event takes place May 1.
-- While Ted DiBiase was indicated as a member of the SmackDown! roster on last Friday's episode of SmackDown!, both he and Maryse worked this weekend's RAW live events.
-- Brodus Clay, who debuted two weeks ago on RAW as the bodyguard of Alberto Del Rio, is now officially a member of the SmackDown! roster. The NXT Season 4 contestant has been added to the Superstars page on WWE.com.
-- WWE Legends Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake and Greg Valentine have been announced for the Boston Comic Con at the Hynes Convention Center 900 Boylston St. Boston, MA. The event takes place May 1.
-- While Ted DiBiase was indicated as a member of the SmackDown! roster on last Friday's episode of SmackDown!, both he and Maryse worked this weekend's RAW live events.
Why Edge Doesn't Use Twitter + WWE Title Reign
The latest issue of WWE Magazine features an interview with Edge and the "Rated-R Superstar" is asked why anyone should care that he's held the World Championship ten times (now eleven).
"I never expected to be able to say that I'm a 10-time World Champion. I was hoping to one day say I was a one-time World Champion," he replied. "Growing up, that number was impossible to reach. It was a different time, place and climate then. Things have changed. It's harder to recreate yourself and stay relevant. I guess I've changed enough to stay relevant, which is one of the hardest things to do. For me, anything past one title is pretty much gravy on top of mashed potatoes."
He also explains why he has yet to join Twitter.
"I will never be on Twitter," he said. "Here's my thing: I really don't want people to know what I'm doing. I'm off the grid by choice. It doesn't mean I have anything against anybody. If I'm out and I see you, let's have a conversation. Cool. But I'm not going to tell you where I am. I'm not the most technological guy in the world, nor will I ever be. I will be in the mountains growing a massive beard at some point and hiking with my dogs and thinking about climbing Mount Everest. This is all ties back into my attack on the Raw GM's computer. There was real frustration there. I'm not a computer guy. I can appreciate what computers do, but all I need is e-mail."
Finally, Edge discusses how he remains inventive after several years inside the squared circle.
He says, "One of the most difficult elements is figuring out how to do new things within our parameters. How can I stop Kane in a Last Man Standing Match? How can I defeat three other guys in a TLC bout? How can I win a match when my signature move has been "outlawed"? Those are problems that I really enjoy solving. I love creative solutions, and I don't like to take the easiest path."
"I never expected to be able to say that I'm a 10-time World Champion. I was hoping to one day say I was a one-time World Champion," he replied. "Growing up, that number was impossible to reach. It was a different time, place and climate then. Things have changed. It's harder to recreate yourself and stay relevant. I guess I've changed enough to stay relevant, which is one of the hardest things to do. For me, anything past one title is pretty much gravy on top of mashed potatoes."
He also explains why he has yet to join Twitter.
"I will never be on Twitter," he said. "Here's my thing: I really don't want people to know what I'm doing. I'm off the grid by choice. It doesn't mean I have anything against anybody. If I'm out and I see you, let's have a conversation. Cool. But I'm not going to tell you where I am. I'm not the most technological guy in the world, nor will I ever be. I will be in the mountains growing a massive beard at some point and hiking with my dogs and thinking about climbing Mount Everest. This is all ties back into my attack on the Raw GM's computer. There was real frustration there. I'm not a computer guy. I can appreciate what computers do, but all I need is e-mail."
Finally, Edge discusses how he remains inventive after several years inside the squared circle.
He says, "One of the most difficult elements is figuring out how to do new things within our parameters. How can I stop Kane in a Last Man Standing Match? How can I defeat three other guys in a TLC bout? How can I win a match when my signature move has been "outlawed"? Those are problems that I really enjoy solving. I love creative solutions, and I don't like to take the easiest path."
Lilian Garcia Speaks Out - The Rock's Influence, WWE
While high school classmates and teachers of Lilian Garcia knew she could sing, it wasn't until Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson found out, that her singing career began to blossom.
"The Rock likes to sing, too, and he found out I could sing,” the former ring announcer of Monday Night RAW told the Miami Herald in an interview.
"I was talking to him one day, and 'The National Anthem' came up as a subject. I said, 'Yea, I sang ‘The National Anthem' at my high school graduation.' There was 600 people in the auditorium. I was in drama in high school, and I always sang in high school. So people there knew me as a singer.
"So he goes, 'Wow. We actually play 'The National Anthem' [at house shows]; it's always an instrumental [recording] that plays, before we go out.' He goes, 'I'm going to talk to the agent, and we should get you to sing 'The National Anthem.'
"It was Feb. 11, 2000, and I was doing my first live event [house show] because I had only done Raw, and we were in Denver. Rock mentioned it to one of the agents, and they had me sing it there that night. It went over so well that the agent had me do it that whole weekend - Friday, Saturday, Sunday.
“By Monday morning, Vince McMahon heard about it, and he mentioned it at the meeting. He said, 'So I hear that someone took the house down and can sing. I've got to see it for myself. So I want you to sing it tonight.' It was in San Jose for Raw on Feb. 14 on Valentine's Day 2000, and I sang it ever since."
Garcia knows all too well that being a ring announcer is a daunting task in WWE.
Garcia said: "I think they've gone through four girls already after me, and some of them talked to me and said, ’Wow. We never knew how hard this job was. You really do have to think on your feet all the time, and you’ve got to know everything.' For me, it was years before. I mean I started getting more and more comfortable. Some of the rules for the matches were so long. When it's rules, it's different than when you're talking to somebody 1-on-1. You can’t deviate from the rules. You can’t adlib the rules. You really have to memorize it.
"It can be they gave you the rules 45 minutes before the match or 15 minutes before the match. Then you have to memorize something really, really fast that's technical. There were times even [near the end of her career] that my stomach was like because I didn’t want to mess up."
The songstress also recalls auditioning for WWE and her first day on the job, which was a rocky experience to say the least. To read the article, go to http://www.miamiherald.com/
Garcia is hoping to release her second music album or at least a single by the end of the year. Visit LilianGarcia.com for the latest on the progress of the album.
"The Rock likes to sing, too, and he found out I could sing,” the former ring announcer of Monday Night RAW told the Miami Herald in an interview.
"I was talking to him one day, and 'The National Anthem' came up as a subject. I said, 'Yea, I sang ‘The National Anthem' at my high school graduation.' There was 600 people in the auditorium. I was in drama in high school, and I always sang in high school. So people there knew me as a singer.
"So he goes, 'Wow. We actually play 'The National Anthem' [at house shows]; it's always an instrumental [recording] that plays, before we go out.' He goes, 'I'm going to talk to the agent, and we should get you to sing 'The National Anthem.'
"It was Feb. 11, 2000, and I was doing my first live event [house show] because I had only done Raw, and we were in Denver. Rock mentioned it to one of the agents, and they had me sing it there that night. It went over so well that the agent had me do it that whole weekend - Friday, Saturday, Sunday.
“By Monday morning, Vince McMahon heard about it, and he mentioned it at the meeting. He said, 'So I hear that someone took the house down and can sing. I've got to see it for myself. So I want you to sing it tonight.' It was in San Jose for Raw on Feb. 14 on Valentine's Day 2000, and I sang it ever since."
Garcia knows all too well that being a ring announcer is a daunting task in WWE.
Garcia said: "I think they've gone through four girls already after me, and some of them talked to me and said, ’Wow. We never knew how hard this job was. You really do have to think on your feet all the time, and you’ve got to know everything.' For me, it was years before. I mean I started getting more and more comfortable. Some of the rules for the matches were so long. When it's rules, it's different than when you're talking to somebody 1-on-1. You can’t deviate from the rules. You can’t adlib the rules. You really have to memorize it.
"It can be they gave you the rules 45 minutes before the match or 15 minutes before the match. Then you have to memorize something really, really fast that's technical. There were times even [near the end of her career] that my stomach was like because I didn’t want to mess up."
The songstress also recalls auditioning for WWE and her first day on the job, which was a rocky experience to say the least. To read the article, go to http://www.miamiherald.com/
Garcia is hoping to release her second music album or at least a single by the end of the year. Visit LilianGarcia.com for the latest on the progress of the album.
Kofi Kingston Speaks Out - IC Title, WrestleMania, More
Kofi Kingston was recently interviewed by thewellversed.com, here are the highlights…
On Defending the IC Title At WrestleMania: "It would be huge. Growing up, I was always a wrestling fan. I use to wrestle with a Bugs Bunny doll. That was my opponent of choice. I would always fantasize about being at Wrestlemania in the main event. Granted, I have the Intercontinental Championship and it won't be the main event match, but if I were to defend that championship at Wrestlemania, it would be a dream come true. It's singles competition, which would be a little bit different than Money In The Bank, which like you said, you have to share the spotlight with nine other guys. It's all speculation at this point. I'm not sure what's going on at Wrestlemania. I do know that I will be there and I will be in the building for sure and it's going to be a night to remember."
On His Character: "It just kind of happened to be honest. It wasn't any kind of decision that was made. For me, when I first came to WWE and I was representing the Jamaican character, what a lot of people don't know is Jamaica had a lot of influence on my life growing up. I was very into Reggae music, listening to guys like Bob Marley, etc. It was just something that was very influential in my life and just the good vibes, the food and the culture really influenced me growing up. So when I came to the WWE, it was kind of my tribute to an area that had a great influence on my life as well as something that had never been done before. As far as evolving into the Ghanaian character, every character in the WWE has some evolution if you think about it. You look at The Rock; he was just Rocky Maivia before he became The Rock. Stone Cold Steve Austin was The Ringmaster. It's all about evolution and storytelling. For me, going from being Jamaican to Ghanaian is just another element of my story and my evolution."
On Defending the IC Title At WrestleMania: "It would be huge. Growing up, I was always a wrestling fan. I use to wrestle with a Bugs Bunny doll. That was my opponent of choice. I would always fantasize about being at Wrestlemania in the main event. Granted, I have the Intercontinental Championship and it won't be the main event match, but if I were to defend that championship at Wrestlemania, it would be a dream come true. It's singles competition, which would be a little bit different than Money In The Bank, which like you said, you have to share the spotlight with nine other guys. It's all speculation at this point. I'm not sure what's going on at Wrestlemania. I do know that I will be there and I will be in the building for sure and it's going to be a night to remember."
On His Character: "It just kind of happened to be honest. It wasn't any kind of decision that was made. For me, when I first came to WWE and I was representing the Jamaican character, what a lot of people don't know is Jamaica had a lot of influence on my life growing up. I was very into Reggae music, listening to guys like Bob Marley, etc. It was just something that was very influential in my life and just the good vibes, the food and the culture really influenced me growing up. So when I came to the WWE, it was kind of my tribute to an area that had a great influence on my life as well as something that had never been done before. As far as evolving into the Ghanaian character, every character in the WWE has some evolution if you think about it. You look at The Rock; he was just Rocky Maivia before he became The Rock. Stone Cold Steve Austin was The Ringmaster. It's all about evolution and storytelling. For me, going from being Jamaican to Ghanaian is just another element of my story and my evolution."
Monday, March 21, 2011
Do Not Call WWE A Wrestling Company - Details
WWE sent a demand to a website that called them a wrestling company to change their wording. TVWeek.com had a headline that ran "'Drew Carey inducted into pro wrestling Hall of Fame." According to the site, they received an email from WWE publicist Kellie Baldyga, ordering them to change the headline because "We are no longer a wrestling company but rather a global entertainment company with a movie studio, international licensing deals, publisher of three magazines, consumer good distributor and more."
The publicist further said "No, we don't do wrestling events. They're entertainments. And we don't call them wrestlers. They're superstars and divas."
TVWeek refused the request and removed the article rather than change the headline.
Major Changes To Two Top WrestleMania Matches
-- According to sources within WWE, a change is expected to be made to a top tier WrestleMania match over the next few days. Many are speculating that Christian will be added to the World Heavyweight Championship Match between Edge and Alberto Del Rio.
-- As of yesterday, creative plans called for Triple H vs. The Undertaker to conclude WrestleMania, with no career ending stipulations.
WWE Star Debuts New Name, Character & Finisher
Husky Harris, who was demoted last month to Florida Championship Wrestling (though officially still listed as a RAW Superstar), recently debuted a masked character in the developmental promotion.
Paying homage to his grandfather, WWE Hall of Famer Blackjack Mulligan, Harris appeared at the March 9 and 16 FCW live events as Axl Mulligan. His appearance appears based on the Lord Humongous character from the 1981 film Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior, which spurned various knock-offs in wrestling. Harris wears jeans and a black Misfits T-shirt to go along with the hockey like mask.
Harris has also changed his in-ring mannerisms and is using the Stone Cold Stunner as his finishing maneuver. He beat Ricardo Rodriguez with the move last Wednesday, and then struck Brodus Clay during a post-match brawl. Photos of that event has surfaced online. You can click here to view photos of the new gimmick.
It is unclear as to whether the character will continue as Harris appeared as himself at last Thursday's FCW live event, one day removed from appearing as the masked persona.
Paying homage to his grandfather, WWE Hall of Famer Blackjack Mulligan, Harris appeared at the March 9 and 16 FCW live events as Axl Mulligan. His appearance appears based on the Lord Humongous character from the 1981 film Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior, which spurned various knock-offs in wrestling. Harris wears jeans and a black Misfits T-shirt to go along with the hockey like mask.
Harris has also changed his in-ring mannerisms and is using the Stone Cold Stunner as his finishing maneuver. He beat Ricardo Rodriguez with the move last Wednesday, and then struck Brodus Clay during a post-match brawl. Photos of that event has surfaced online. You can click here to view photos of the new gimmick.
It is unclear as to whether the character will continue as Harris appeared as himself at last Thursday's FCW live event, one day removed from appearing as the masked persona.
Ted DiBiase Returns To SD!, Percy Watson-WWE
-- Ted DiBiase made his first television appearance since February 24 on Friday's episode of SmackDown!, losing to Rey Mysterio in a quick match. He was not the only RAW Superstar to compete on the show as Sheamus beat Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston in a Non-Title Match earlier in the broadcast. It's interesting to note that a SmackDown! name plate was displayed during DiBiase's ring entrance, whereas a Raw name plate was displayed when Sheamus made his entrance.
-- WWE developmental wrestler Percy Watson is working this weekend's SmackDown! live events. He beat Curt Hawkins last night in Roanoke, Virginia. Vince McMahon is said to be high on Watson these days.
-- WWE developmental wrestler Percy Watson is working this weekend's SmackDown! live events. He beat Curt Hawkins last night in Roanoke, Virginia. Vince McMahon is said to be high on Watson these days.
WWE Roster Cuts Likely On The Way - Details
As noted earlier here on the website, WGN America's cancellation of WWE Superstars is because the Chicago-based superstation didn't feel they were getting what they paid for, which was a program near the level of Monday Night Raw. WGN agreed to carry the show in late 2008 with the hope it would bring ratings to their national feed, which does not have substantial clearance across cable systems in the United States.
While WWE Superstars initially featured top tier talent such as John Cena, Edge and John Morrison, it was clear from the beginning that it was a show of little consequence. For instance, the program sparingly featured storylines. Within a matter of time, it became the modern day equivalent of Sunday Night Heat, a television showcase for the organization's preliminary talent; Zack Ryder, Tyler Reks, Primo and the Uso brothers were regularly featured in starring roles. Meanwhile, the show's lackluster ratings were indicative of how both fans and officials alike saw it as.
Due to last month's poor financial quarters, company officials have discussed cutting ties with a number of bottom level wrestlers following Wrestlemania XXVII as a cost-cutting measure. Roster cuts happen every year following WWE's 'superbowl' of pay-per-views.
Also, a big thanks to those of you who met up with us yesterday in New York City. You guys were all great and we hope to see you again on June 26th prior to the ROH event. Good times guys.
While WWE Superstars initially featured top tier talent such as John Cena, Edge and John Morrison, it was clear from the beginning that it was a show of little consequence. For instance, the program sparingly featured storylines. Within a matter of time, it became the modern day equivalent of Sunday Night Heat, a television showcase for the organization's preliminary talent; Zack Ryder, Tyler Reks, Primo and the Uso brothers were regularly featured in starring roles. Meanwhile, the show's lackluster ratings were indicative of how both fans and officials alike saw it as.
Due to last month's poor financial quarters, company officials have discussed cutting ties with a number of bottom level wrestlers following Wrestlemania XXVII as a cost-cutting measure. Roster cuts happen every year following WWE's 'superbowl' of pay-per-views.
Also, a big thanks to those of you who met up with us yesterday in New York City. You guys were all great and we hope to see you again on June 26th prior to the ROH event. Good times guys.
Ivelisse Velez-Twitter, How Old Is Evan Bourne?, Ziggler
-- Dolph Ziggler revealed on Twitter that an Authentic WWE T-shirt bearing his name is in the works. "Attention DOLPHANS: DOLPH ZIGGLER Authentic WWE T-SHIRT has gone into production!!!" he wrote. "Perfection is on its way!" Ziggler calls his followers Dolphans?! Hah!
-- Evan Bourne celebrated his 28th birthday yesterday. As noted earlier, Bourne was backstage visiting at the ROH show at the Manhattan Center prior to the WWE event across the street at Madison Square Garden.
-- Beginning next Saturday, Galavision in the US will be carrying CMLL at 5 PM and AAA at 7 PM.
-- Tough Enough contestant Ivelisse Velez has launched an account on Twitter at http://twitter.com/prhuntress. She is known on the Chicago independent wrestling scene as Juliet "The Huntress".
TNA Knockout Suffers Injury + How Old Is Sting?
-- TNA World Heavyweight Champion Sting celebrates his 52nd birthday today.
-- It is believed that Mickie James suffered a slightly separated shoulder during a match against Madison Rayne at Friday's TNA Wrestling live event in Jacksonville, Florida. According to an observer, Rayne botched a spot, which led to the injury.
James appeared at last night's show in Savannah, Georgia with her shoulder in a sling. She acknowledged the injury on her Twitter account today, writing, "In a one wing sling and still kicking doing the damn thing! Lol. =)"
-- It is believed that Mickie James suffered a slightly separated shoulder during a match against Madison Rayne at Friday's TNA Wrestling live event in Jacksonville, Florida. According to an observer, Rayne botched a spot, which led to the injury.
James appeared at last night's show in Savannah, Georgia with her shoulder in a sling. She acknowledged the injury on her Twitter account today, writing, "In a one wing sling and still kicking doing the damn thing! Lol. =)"
Shawn Michaels Speaks Out - Retirement, Return?, More
Shawn Michaels spoke in the new issue of WWE Magazine about his post-wrestling life, the Hall of Fame and more. Here are some of the highlights:
On his retirement: "No matter how many times you say, 'I'm not coming back,' someone will always question you. There's always someone out there, especially with the Internet, saying you'll be coming back, or that you have ulterior motives, or whatever. That's just part of the gig."
On whether the Undertaker is a factor in his staying retired: "Again, I'm in a position where I have the luxury of being able to say, 'No, I don't want to do that' if I don't want to do something. And, if I say that, it's not going to happen. I wouldn't have put my career on the line against Undertaker's streak if I wasn't 100 percent ready to accept the consequences. Staying retired is as much about respecting him, and the match, as it is about respecting the promise I made to myself and my family. Sometimes there are moments that you just can't beat."
On Ric Flair's return: "So many people ask me about Ric, and whether his return bothers me. I always say, 'Absolutely not.' One match at Wrestlemania XXIV - that moment - was truly 100 percent real to me. And it was real to him. And that's never going to change. I want Ric to be happy. And to be perfectly honest, I know he's happiest when he's in the ring. That moment will always be very special to me."
On guys who return after retiring: "It's very tough to make a well thought-out decision when you don't have the time to think it out. I had that luxury, I was able to craft the circumstances surrounding my exit to the point that the career-ending stipulation meant something. I understand why people can't stay away. The atmosphere of the business - being around the guys in the locker room or out in the ring - can be very intoxicating."
On his retirement: "No matter how many times you say, 'I'm not coming back,' someone will always question you. There's always someone out there, especially with the Internet, saying you'll be coming back, or that you have ulterior motives, or whatever. That's just part of the gig."
On whether the Undertaker is a factor in his staying retired: "Again, I'm in a position where I have the luxury of being able to say, 'No, I don't want to do that' if I don't want to do something. And, if I say that, it's not going to happen. I wouldn't have put my career on the line against Undertaker's streak if I wasn't 100 percent ready to accept the consequences. Staying retired is as much about respecting him, and the match, as it is about respecting the promise I made to myself and my family. Sometimes there are moments that you just can't beat."
On Ric Flair's return: "So many people ask me about Ric, and whether his return bothers me. I always say, 'Absolutely not.' One match at Wrestlemania XXIV - that moment - was truly 100 percent real to me. And it was real to him. And that's never going to change. I want Ric to be happy. And to be perfectly honest, I know he's happiest when he's in the ring. That moment will always be very special to me."
On guys who return after retiring: "It's very tough to make a well thought-out decision when you don't have the time to think it out. I had that luxury, I was able to craft the circumstances surrounding my exit to the point that the career-ending stipulation meant something. I understand why people can't stay away. The atmosphere of the business - being around the guys in the locker room or out in the ring - can be very intoxicating."
WWE House Show Report (3/19): New York, NY (MSG)
WWE returned to Madison Square Garden on 3/18 with a Raw house show. The crowd was way up from the last several house shows in the venue, but was not a sellout.
The show opened with WWE champion The Miz coming out and cutting a promo demanding his match against Randy Orton start right now because he's the Miz and he's awesome. Orton came out for a hot opening. Miz controlled early but Orton made a comeback. Orton set up Miz for the RKO but CM Punk hit the ring and laid out Orton, putting the boots to him and mocking him. Punk went for the GTS but Orton slipped out. Punk scampered from the ring. Miz tried to attack Orton but was thrown out of the ring. DQ city.
The Raw General Manager emailed and said that due to Punk's actions, he was letting the fans decide the main event tonight: Miz vs. Orton or Orton & Cena vs. Punk & Miz. The fans picked the latter.
Evan Bourne, Vladimir Kozlov and Santino Marella defeated Zack Ryder, Primo and Tyson Kidd when Santino nailed the Cobra followed by a Bourne shooting star press. OK match with Kidd getting a lot of heat on Bourne.
Alex Riley cut a promo saying he may be fired but he's here. He said he's asked the GM for a match on Raw and if he wins he's back working for The Miz. The GM emails and says Riley can prove himself tonight in the world's most famous arena. Out comes Great Khali.
Great Khali pinned Alex Riley in 30 seconds with a chokeslam. Khali was all taped up selling the injuries from Raw. Thanks for coming Alex!
Kelly Kelly and Eve defeated The Bellas. Sunny was a surprise as the special referee and called it down the middle. The Bellas tried twin magic but Sunny caught it. Eve nailed a sunset flip into the ring for the pin. The Bellas attacked Kelly and Eve. Sunny got involved and worked over one of the Bellas. Sunny got a nice reaction. I wouldn't say it was a huge Superstar response but it was a really nice, respectful one.
Vickie Guerrero came to the ring and cut a promo saying she beat Trish Stratus fair and square so now she's on Raw every week. Usual great promo. She then introduced Dolph Ziggler.
John Morrison pinned Dolph Ziggler. They did a false finish where Morrison missed Starship Pain and Ziggler pinned him with his feet on the ropes. The referees came out and restarted the match. Vickie tried to trip Morrison and ended up thrown out. Morrison finally nailed Starship Pain for the pin. Very good match.
R Truth came through the crowd rapping his theme song. He ran a contest for 4 tickets to the Survivor Series. The Raw GM emailed in and made a dance contest. Two of the contestants were from New Jersey and were booed unmercifully from the crowd. The winner was an older man from the Bronx that the crowd loved. The dancing was terrible.
Daniel Bryan defeated Ted DiBiase in a solid match with the Lebell Lock. They did all the Bryan spots like the bow and arrow, kicks, etc. Gail Kim and Maryse were at ringside.
Sheamus attacked Bryan and laid him out. He cut a promo saying he ended a four month undefeated streak (oops!) by winning the United States championship. He says Triple H put him through a table but tonight he will end Triple H's career in a New York City Streetfight.
Triple H pinned Sheamus in a NYC Street Fight. Triple H used a belt on Sheamus. They brawled into the crowd and up into an aisle. Sheamus was backdropped over the rail into the ringside area. Sheamus nailed him with a Singapore Cane. He tossed HHH into the ring and beat him with the Cane. Sheamus nailed an over the knee backbreaker for a two count. He beat HHH with a series of clobbering blows to the chest. He cinched in a rear chinlock but HHH made a comeback. Sheamus took him out with a clothesline. Sheamus brought a set of the ring steps into the ring but HHH hit a droptoehold and Sheamus ate the stairs. HHH grabbed a chair under the ring and nailed Sheamus in the gut and over the back for a two count. They battled back and forth with punches. HHH finally got the better of it and went for the Pedigree. Sheamus backdropped him and nailed the Pump Kick but HHH kicked out. Sheamus called for the High Cross. He picked up HHH but HHH slipped out. Sheamus crotched himself missing a kick and ended up tied up in the ropes. HHH grabbed the cane and beat Sheamus who was hanging upside down. HHH nailed the Pedigree and scored the pin. Triple H looked heavier than he did during his last run. The match was OK but nothing really memorable.
John Cena and Randy Orton defeated CM Punk and WWE champion The Miz. Usual mixed response for Cena. Huge response for Orton, who absolutely received the biggest reaction of the night. Punk and Cena started the tag bout. Cena bulldogged Punk and tagged Orton. Punk ran for the corner and tagged Miz. Miz got the better of Orton early and tagged in Punk. Now that Orton was down, Punk was willing to get in the ring with him. He locked in a rear chinlock. Fans were chanting for Fruity Pebbles. Punk drilled Orton with a series of kicks. Orton came back with a back suplex. He tagged Cena who nailed a slam and mocked Miz before nailing the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Punk and Cena clunked heads. Miz tagged in and stomped away on Cena. Cena rolled out onto the apron. Punk yanked him off and Cena bumped to the floor. Miz covered Cena for a two count. Miz locked in a rear chinlock as Cena struggled to the ropes. Cena finally breaks it and gets to his feet but Miz nails a neckbreaker. Punk and Miz take turns working on Cena. Punk kept beating on Cena and nailed a hangman's neckbreaker. Punk used body scissors to wear Cena down. Cena fought back on Punk and Miz but was overtaken again. Punk and Miz continued the beating. Cena finally made a comeback with a back suplex but Miz tagged in and prevented the hot tag. Cena fired back but was caught with a sitdown slam. Miz mocked the Rock and did the People's Elbow. Punk tagged in and stomped away at Cena. Punk missed a charge in the corner. Cena and Punk clotheslined each other in the center of the ring. Hot tag to Orton. He nailed Miz with the hanging DDT and teased the RKO but Miz slipped out and nailed the Skull Crushing Finale for a two count. Miz went to the top but Orton cut him off and nailed a superplex. Punk tagged in and mocked Orton then went for the GTS. Orton slipped out and sent Punk into the referee. Orton nailed the RKO but no ref. Orton went for the Punt but Miz clotheslined him. Cena went after Miz but Punk caught him with a clothesline. The heels grabbed chairs but missed. Cena and Orton nailed their finishers and scored the pins. Fun main event!
Notes: They were selling signed copies of the John Cena Experience DVD...Although they mentioned the Survivor Series would be the next card here, they never plugged the date, instead pushing tomorrow's house show at the Prudential Center and the June Raw taping....Betty Skaaland, the widow of Arnold Skaaland, was sitting in the front row. Both Triple H and John Cena embraced her when they saw her....Names advertised that did not appear were The Usos....Orton vs. Miz was advertised for months as a Best of Three Falls match. Obviously, that did not happen....Overall, a solid house show.
WWE Tough Enough Filming Finished
-- Steve Austin said this morning on his Twitter account that WWE Tough Enough has concluded filming. "Well...just finished with Tough Enough...it was a helluva lot of fun...thanks to @BillDeMott, @trishstratuscom, and Booker T..great cats."
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