From Mark Madden's column on wrestlezone.com:
Here's my advice to anyone involved with "The Wrestler," especially Mickey Rourke. If you want to be at WrestleMania, buy a ticket and sit out of camera range...More?
January 31, 2009
Mickey, Don't Do it!
WWE Divas: The Good and the Useless
Many Divas have passed through the WWE in years. From legends like Fabulous Moolah to future Hall of Famer Trish Stratus. We've seen Sable, Lita, and the more prominent Chyna. These women were great performers in the wrestling ring and you could tell they worked hard. Recently, though, we've seen the slow decline of the Divas unit.
Well, we can't blame WWE. Who actually said, "I can't wait for the women's championship match at Wrestlemania"! I can't recall saying that and I'm sure many can agree.
Nevertheless, even though we never talked about those great women wrestlers that much we appreciated them. Mickie James is pretty good and so was Molly Holly. Trish Stratus had fantastic matches with Lita, Molly Holly, and Mickie James. So we fast forward into present and what do we have? A joke...More?
source: bleacherreport.com
Mark Henry and Vladimir Koslov Make Two of the Best Look Bad
Match reviews from iFight365.com:
...The Undertaker beats Mark Henry to qualify for the Elimination Chamber at No Way Out in a terribly slow and plodding match, winning with the Devils Triangle. Taker tried, but Henry is just so lumbering and immobile that it’s really tough even for Taker to get a good match out of him...
...The final Elimination Chamber qualifier was an early contender for Worst Match Of The Year, as Triple H won a triple threat match over Vladimir Kozlov and The Great Khali. Just like their interaction in the Royal Rumble, when Kozlov and Khali were going at it was the kind of action that makes you cringe. Just embarrassingly slow clunky and uncoordinated. HHH, as good as he can be, has never been a guy who can get excellent matches from mediocre opponents and tends to wrestle at the level of the people he’s in the ring with. For all that, I quite liked the finish, as Khali has HHH in the Vice Grip, so Kozlov goes for the running headbutt to the chest, but HHH escaped so Kozlov headbutted Khali. Then Kozlov charged at HHH who avoided him and sent Kozlov crashing to the outside, and the worst pedigree you’ve ever seen won the match for HHH...
I don't agree that Triple H wrestles at the level of his mediocre opponents. I think you can only make someone with no talent look so good. Even The Undertaker and Triple H cannot make these two look good. Hopefully after No Way Out, they will find another program for Triple H. He is wasting his time trying to get a good match out of Kozlov.
Chamber Mates
Undertaker, Big Show and Triple H all qualified for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber Match at No Way Out, and each Superstar made sure their performances were dominating, sending a message to current champion Edge. Full Results.
This Day in Wrestling History
The Radicals (Chris Benoit, Dean Malenko, Eddie Guerrero and Perry Saturn) debut on RAW after leaving WCW
January 31, 2000
January 30, 2009
WWE's Greatest Stars of the 90's DVD
SilverVision has released information regarding the upcoming WWE Greatest Stars of the 90's three-disc DVD set. Fifteen wrestlers are profiled on the DVD including Shawn Michaels, Yokozuna, The Rock, Kevin Nash, Owen Hart, Ric Flair, Mick Foley, Hulk Hogan, Triple H, Bret Hart, Lex Luger, Sting, Razor Ramon, The Undertaker, and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin. It is scheduled to be released in April. Click here for the complete listing.
SmackDown Airing LIVE During WWE's Fan Axxess Weekend
PWInsider.com is reporting that during Wrestlemania's Fan Axxess weekend, Smackdown will air LIVE from Houston, TX on April 3rd, 2009, 2 days before Wrestlemania. Tickets for this event as well as the Axxess weekend will go on sale this Saturday morning through Ticketmaster.
January 29, 2009
Vince Issues Statement Claiming Mickey Rourke will be at WMXXV
WWE honcho Vince McMahon tells E! News that Rourke will still be in Houston, even if he's not in a leotard: "I am pleased that Mickey Rourke will be in attendance at WrestleMania to support the WWE Superstars who support him and the film in which he stars, The Wrestler."
MMA Legend Passes Away
Helio Gracie, legendary patriarch of the Gracie family and father of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, has passed away at the age of 95, according to a report by GracieMag.com.
Gracie passed in his sleep early Thursday in Itaipaiva, Rio de Janeiro, said another report on Sherdog.com, after he had been admitted to a local hospital a few days prior for stomach problems.
Gracie was recognized worldwide for his accomplishments in the sport of jiu-jitsu, as well as crossing over into other formats, while also serving as father to legends like Royce, Rickson, and Rorion Gracie, who helped found the Ultimate Fighting Championship...More?
source: mmaweekly.com
Wrestler Chris Benoit's Doctor Pleads Guilty to Drug Charges
Dr. Phil Astin, 52, from Carrollton has entered a guilty plea to 175 counts, charging him with illegally dispensing prescription drugs from 2002 until his arrest in 2007. The case stems from the investigation in to the murders of wrestler Chris Benoit’s wife and young son as well as his suicide in June 2007. Astin entered the plea in federal court in Newnan Thursday morning.
According to the federal government, a professional wrestler told investigators that it was widely known in the professional wrestling community that Astin would dispense prescriptions without performing a medical examination. “The [wrestler] said that a number of professional wrestlers obtained prescription drugs from Astin for the purpose of abusing drugs, adding that some of these wrestlers were addicted to these drugs.” (according to the United States Attorney’s Office)...More?
source: myfoxatlanta.com
Former AWA celebrity regular battling Lou Gehrig's disease, believes head trauma may have contributed
Former pro boxer and AWA celebrity regular Scott LeDoux is battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (a/k/a Lou Gehrig's disease), according to the St. Pioneer Press. "I thought it was arthritis," LeDoux said in an interview published over the weekend. "Now, it's going to my legs and stomach. Now it's a real issue... "I'm living with ALS; I'm not going to die from ALS. I'm going to fight it till the end."LeDoux also stated that he believes boxing contributed. "It has a lot to do with head trauma and stuff like that," LeDoux said. "They don't know how it works. It varies in speed. I think I'm on a slower pace." To read the full story, visit TwinCities.com.
source: prowrestling.net
Local Trio Produces Comic Book about a Wrestler
The first 100 issues of "Bamn," a chronicle of a down-and-out professional wrestler who decides to mentor a group of high school backyard wrestlers are printed and ready for sale...More?
source: gazette.net
January 28, 2009
Triple H Key to SmackDown Ratings Success
WWE.com has posted another article touting their ratings success since moving to MyNetworkTV. What it didn't mention is that the ratings go up the more Triple H is on the show.
The January 9th edition of SmackDown was the most watched show in MyNetwork TV history with 3.9 million viewers. It was also the night Triple H was a major part of the show - wrestling three times. He beat John Morrison and The Miz and then lost to the Big Show. The rating was a 2.2.
The January 16th edition had Hunter on early in the show to antagonize Vickie Guerrero with her "nude" photos. He then did a run-in to assist MVP with his match against The Big Show. The ratings went down slightly to a 2.1.
The January 23rd edition had Hunter losing to Vladimir Kozlov after Vickie Guerrero added The Big Show to the match. There was a lot of build-up for this match. The ratings went up to a 2.2. In addition, the wwe.com article has these numbers:
1. The January 23rd SmackDown delivered four million viewers to MyNetwork TV and proved to be the most watched telecast in the network’s history among households and total viewers (based on live viewing or DVR viewing until 3 a.m. Friday night).
2. SmackDown has broken the record for the most watched telecast in MyNetwork TV history 11 times in its first 17 weeks on air.
3. The 2.6 million male viewers watching SmackDown on Friday night more than doubled the male audience watching the Winter X Games on ESPN.
All of this has happened since Triple H was drafted to SmackDown and the two highest rated shows (Jan. 9th & 23rd) featured him greatly. This can't be just a coincidence.
Interestingly, the Raw ratings are up since the return of Stephanie and Vince McMahon.
Mickey Rourke won't rumble with WWE superstar
A spokeswoman for actor Mickey Rourke says he won't be taking his role as a professional wrestler into a real-life ring after all. Paula Woods told The Associated Press on Wednesday night that Rourke will not wrestle WWE superstar Chris Jericho at Wrestlemania 25 in April at Houston's Reliant Stadium.
Woods wrote in an e-mail that the Oscar-nominated actor "will not be participating in Wrestlemania. He is focusing entirely on his acting career." Rourke portrays professional wrestler Randy the Ram in the acclaimed movie "The Wrestler." He made a surprise announcement about the wrestling event Sunday night on the red carpet before the Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles.
Rourke had said he was going to toss Jericho "around the ring like tossed salad."
source: associated press
Rumor Mill - Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat in the WWE HOF
According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Ricky Steamboat will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this year. He will be inducted by Ric Flair.
Linda McMahon clarifies college major to Rell
World Wrestling Entertainment head Linda McMahon, who awaits confirmation to the state's school board, on Tuesday clarified to Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell that her college major was French, not education, as she previously stated.
But McMahon added she completed her education course requirements at East Carolina University and, following an internship and testing, was certified to teach in North Carolina. McMahon, CEO of Stamford-based WWE, is a Greenwich resident.
"This discrepancy was brought to my attention today by a reporter from the Stamford Advocate," McMahon wrote to Rell late Tuesday.
McMahon's ECU biography stated in 1969 she obtained her bachelor's degree in French, contrary to the governor's news release and to McMahon's official biography provided by the WWE....More?
source: greenwichtime.com
January 27, 2009
Chris Jericho Appears on Larry King to Confront Mickey Rourke
Mickey Rourke was a guest on Larry King Live on CNN, and interestingly, Chris Jericho appeared on the show live via satellite and furthered what looks to be an ongoing storyline between the two performers. Jericho criticized Rourke for the comments he made on the red carpet of the SAG awards by saying "I think Mickey kinda talked a little out of line...there's a lot of a difference in playing a wrestler in a movie and actually being one in real life, and I think Mickey was given some bad advice in saying my name on the red carpet, and if you get your wish Mr. Rourke you will learn things you never learned in playing a wrestler in a movie."...More?
source: wrestlezone.com
ECW Results: Extreme Changes
Finlay made sure ECW Champion Jack Swagger's celebration would be a party he'd never forget when he avenged "The All-American American's" actions against Hornswoggle.
Full Results.
Brain Damage from Repeated Concussions Now has a Name
Until recently, the best medical definition for concussion was a jarring blow to the head that temporarily stunned the senses, occasionally leading to unconsciousness. It has been considered an invisible injury, impossible to test -- no MRI, no CT scan can detect it.
But today, using tissue from retired NFL athletes culled posthumously, the Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy (CSTE), at the Boston University School of Medicine, is shedding light on what concussions look like in the brain. The findings are stunning. Far from innocuous, invisible injuries, concussions confer tremendous brain damage. That damage has a name: chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
Chris Nowinski knows well the impact of concussions. He was a football star at Harvard before wrestling professionally with World Wrestling Entertainment. In one moment, his dreams of a long career wrestling were dashed by a kick to his chin. That kick, which caused Nowinski to black out and effectively ended his career, capped a career riddled with concussions.
"My world changed," said Nowinski. "I had depression. I had memory problems. My head hurt for five years."...More?
source: cnn.com
You're Not the WWE: How TNA Can Improve in 2009
1) Stop trying to be WWE. There is only one WWE, and it’s owned by Vince McMahon. Trying to be WWE is what got WCW in trouble during the Monday Night Wars; WCW tried to be their competition in order to get their viewers back when they fell behind in the ratings.
2) Stop signing WWE refugees. Remember how shocking and surprising it was to see a cult favorite such as Christian or a huge star like Kurt Angle show up on TNA Impact? These days, it seems that TNA will sign anyone who was once in WWE, even though most of them end up doing nothing.
3) Reestablish the relationship that was once had with Ring of Honor. TNA stopped its relationship with Ring of Honor because, once ROH obtained a Pay-Per-View deal, it didn’t want its talent appearing on another wrestling company’s broadcast.
4) Advertise the product. The reason the WWE is so well known globally is because it advertised like crazy in the '80s and '90s. International tours and promotional appearances all over television, magazines, toy isles and video games ensured everyone knew what the WWE was.
5) Fire Vince Russo.
Click here to read the full article at bleacherreport.com
"The Wrestler" Director Comments on Vince McMahon's Reaction to his Movie
During an interview with NPR, Darren Aronofsky commented on Vince's reaction to The Wrestler:
"Vince McMahon saw the film and he called both me and Mickey (Rourke) and he was really, really touched by it. It happened a week ago. We were very nervous wondering what he would think, but he really, really felt the film was special. Having his support meant a lot to us, especially Mickey."
Click here to listen to the full interview.
Pro wrestling comic headed to the big screen
We’ve long known that wrestling and comic books share a lot of common ground — they’re both overly dramatic, feature bulbous men and women in spandex, there’s plenty of fighting, and their fans are … well, kinda nuts.
So the news today that Death Ray Films and Maya Entertainment will be bringing the supernatural wrestling epic “El Zombo Fantasma” — based on the three-issue miniseries by David Wilkins, Kevin Munroe and Dark Horse Comics — to life as a feature film is pretty much a no-brainer. Monroe will get a shot to write and direct the project, and also co-produce the film along with Wilkins, Chris Patton and Robert Sanchez. Dark Horse head honcho Mike Richardson will serve as an executive producer...More?
source: splashpage.mtv.com
GLOW is returning; Open Casting Call
The 1980's TV sensation is getting ready to cast a new generation of GLOW (Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling) girls to take part in an incredible journey! If you think you have what it takes, show up in person!
Tuesday, January 27th, 2009
Between 4-6 PM
Big Vision Entertainment
14431 Hamlin St.
Van Nuys, CA 91401
818-779-0703
If you have questions, please Email: mikehartsfield@gmail.com (email is quickest and more effective than calling). You do not need experience in professional wrestling to take part. We are looking for a very wide range of types and styles of people.
View GLOW on Myspace: www.myspace.com/glowrestling
This Day in Wrestling History - Andre the Giant passes away
Andre Rene Roussimoff May 19, 1946 - January 27, 1993
Due to his immense stature it seemed inevitable that Andre would excel in the wrestling world. He had just started to make a name for himself in the ring as "Monster Eiffel Tower" or "Monster Roussimoff" when French-Canadian wrestler Edouard Carpentier first laid eyes on him. Carpentier was impressed with Andre's raw talent and decided to bring him to North America. Andre began wrestling under the name Jean Ferre in Canada for Grand Prix Promotions. In a short time Andre went from the undercard to being a headlining name. Inspired by the movie King Kong he acquired the nickname, "The 8th Wonder of the World," which stayed with him for the rest of his career.
By the time Andre had performed in front of 20,000 wrestling fans in Montreal, his legend had reached Vince McMahon, Sr. at the World Wide Wrestling Federation's (WWWF) headquarters. McMahon would forever alter Andre's life. In 1972, McMahon signed Andre to wrestle for the WWWF and changed his name to capitalize on his colossal size. "Andre the Giant" became one of the most recognizable names in wrestling. Andre performed under his new name at Madison Square Garden, where he easily defeated his opponent Buddy Wolfe without breaking a sweat. Before long, Andre's venues were sold out and wrestlers lined up to perform in his shadow. As Andre's fame grew to stardom, he was featured in Sports Illustrated in the largest feature they had ever published...More?
source: andrethegiant.com
Andre the Giant vs Big John Studd
January 26, 2009
Raw Results: The Son Also Rises
Though Randy Orton made it through the night without being fired for his attack on Mr. McMahon, the 2009 Royal Rumble winner received some corporal punishment at the hands of The Chairman's son, Shane. Full Results.
WWE Continues the Cost-Cutting
In WWE's latest cost-cutting move, the company is shutting down its Canadian office with the exception of its sales division. People working with WWE's broadcast partner in Canada, The Score, received memos regarding the news. This makes at least three offices gutted in the past few weeks as WWE recently shut down their offices in Sydney, Australia and China as well.
Some entertainment via Matt Hardy's MySpace page
Matt Hardy's Myspace page has been overrun with many comments since last night's Royal Rumble PPV and some of the reactions by "wrestling fans" are quite entertaining and that might be taking the show a little too seriously. If you are up for a laugh or two you can check out Hardy's page at this link.
Jack Swagger talks about making it to WWE
TheSouthern.com has an article up with WWE star and current ECW Champion Jack Swagger where he talks about getting his opportunity with the company after finishing school and what it has been like to be on the road at this link.
Now It's Orton's Time
Orton has been chosen by McMahon to be WWE's focal point heading into this year's WrestleMania, and bluntly, there isn't a member of the roster who could possibly be a better choice. Randy Orton has stepped up in every way imaginable, and his improvement in just the past month has been spectacular to watch.
This was Vince's first television appearance in six months. Stephanie had the entire crowd eating out of the palm of her hand with her great interaction with Chris Jericho and his "apology to the crowd".
So here's Vince, revelling in the spotlight, and Stephanie, delivering what could be her best performance ever. And yet, when Orton stepped into the ring and started talking, he compelled you to watch him...More?
source: the sun
Boogeyman in new movie
According to IMDB, WWE Superstar The Boogeyman has a role in the upcoming Oliver Stone film "Escobar," about the life of the Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. The Boogeyman will be playing a character named Tony. This is Boogey's third Oliver Stone film I believe as he appeared in Any Given Sunday as well.
Santino's Rumble Status
Santino Marella now holds the record for shortest time in the ring for the Royal Rumble match after being eliminated after just over one second. The Warlord lasted two seconds in 1989 and in 1995, Sir Mo and the late Owen Hart only lasted three seconds.
Julie Hart changes her views on the "Montreal Screwjob"
It seems that Julie Hart has changed her views on the "Montreal Screwjob" that involved her ex-husband Brett Hart. In an interview on the UnholyMatrimonyShow.com show, Julie said this in reference to Vince McMahon:
"I think he had a business to run," Julie said. "I understand Bret's side too... Please don't hate me, wrestling fans."
Ring of Honor Television Deal Announced
HDNet Fights today announced a long term partnership with “Ring of Honor Wrestling.” Coming soon, HDNet will debut a new weekly television series, which will bring “Ring of Honor Wrestling” to a national television audience for the very first time. “Ring of Honor Wrestling” and its stars are prominently featured in the recent, critically acclaimed movie “The Wrestler” starring...More?
source: rohwrestling.com
This Day in Wrestling History
WCW president J.J. Dillon bans the use of the powerbomb after Kevin Nash injures The Giant when attempting the move
January 26, 1988
Mankind defeated the Rock for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title
January 26, 1999
Happy Birthday to Animal (Joe Laurinaitis ) of the Road Warriors
January 26, 1960
January 25, 2009
Royal Rumble Results: Detroit "RKO" City
With some help from his "Legacy," Randy Orton defeated 30 other Superstars in the Royal Rumble Match. The Legend Killer earned himself a title opportunity at WrestleMania 25, but what action will be taken against him on Raw for his assault on Mr. McMahon? Full Results
Order of Entrants & Eliminations
Mickey Rourke to Participate in WMXXV
On the red carpet at the 15th Annual SAG Awards on Sunday night in Hollywood, the actor revealed he’s about to get in the ring in real life. Rourke will be participating in WWE’s “Wrestlemania 25” in Houston on April 5.
“The boys from the WWE called me and asked me to do it,” Rourke told Access Hollywood. “I said, ‘I want to.’ I’m talking with [WWE legend] Rowdy Roddy Piper about it.”
In fact, Rourke, whose role in “The Wrestler” earned him a SAG nomination for Best Actor (as well as an Academy Award nomination and a win at the Golden Globes earlier this month), said the professional wrestling industry has been extremely supportive of his portrayal of the sport.
“The nicest thing has been the whole wrestling community embracing us,” Rourke said on the red carpet. “The movie was about their world.”
And when he does jump into the ring with WWE, it appears the actor may already have his sights set on an opponent.
“Chris Jericho, you better get in shape,” Rourke added. “Because I’m coming after your a**.”
source: accesshollywood.com
Winners from the Royal Rumble
ECW Champion Jack Swagger vs. Matt Hardy
Winner: Jack Swagger retains title
Women's Champion Beth Phoenix vs. Melina
Winner: Melina - New Women's Champion
World Heavyweight Champion John Cena vs. JBL
Winner: John Cena retains title
WWE Championship: Jeff Hardy vs. Edge
Winner: Edge - New WWE Champion
30-Man Royal Rumble Match
Triple H in at #7, RVD in at #25
Winner: Randy Orton
Fan Reports from the SmackDown House Show 01/24
The Best Entrance and Other WWE Awards
The Best Entrance....and the nominees are:
a. Shawn Michaels: He won it 12 years ago, why not again?
b. Triple H: He finally made up his mind and picked a great entrance. If you're a 12-time world heavyweight champion you have to have an awesome entrance
c. The Undertaker : The Deadman's entrance is always awesome to witness.
d. R-Truth: One of the few guys who interacts with the audience.
The Winner: Triple H
...More?
source: bleacherreport.com
Rumor Mill - Friction between Booker T and Jeff Jarrett
Prowrestling.net is reporting that Jeff Jarrett and Booker T got into some sort of a backstage argument over the direction of a storyline at a recent Impact taping. Apparently Booker wanted to make changes to an angle as he was unhappy with the way it was scheduled to play out, however Jarrett wanted the angle to remain the way it was written by creative. In the end, Jarrett reportedly "threw his arms up in the air" and gave up the fight, allowing Booker to implement the changes he wanted. According to the report, this is a further example of Jarrett being somewhat of a pushover when it comes to dealing with big names talents...More?
January 24, 2009
Triple H's Royal Rumble Status Change
Since he lost to Vladimir Koslov on SmackDown, Triple H was to enter the Royal Rumble in the #1 position. That angle has been dropped. The Rumble match has been re-booked his originally scheduled role and storyline in the match has changed.
Kaliqo's Royal Rumble Predictions, Picks & Speculations
WWE Championship: Jeff Hardy vs. Edge
Looking for some sort of swerve here. A run in by Christian? Maybe a jealous Matt Hardy interfering?
Women's Champion Beth Phoenix vs. Melina
I like Beth Phoenix, but I don't have an interest in this match. The only redeeming quality is that both of them can wrestle, not just look good.
World Heavyweight Champion John Cena vs. JBL
I don't expect HBK to just sit there and not interfere in this match. I'm expecting HBK to "inadvertently" cost JBL the match.
ECW Champion Jack Swagger vs. Matt Hardy
If you visit this site with any regularity, you know I am not a fan of ECW. With that said, I don't expect Matt to win the title back. I think he will be involved in the Jeff, Edge, Christian story.
30-Man Royal Rumble Match
It may be somewhat predictable, but Triple H should win this match. He hasn't won a Royal Rumble since 2002 and coming in at #1 and then winning will make a good babyface story.
The Kaliqo Chronicles have been updated.
AC/DC to Perform at WrestleMania XXV
At her recent appearance at the 36th Annual Global Media and Communications Conference, Linda McMahon stated that AC/DC will be performing the theme to WrestleMania XXV.
Vince McMahon is said to be a huge fan of AC/DC, getting his first exposure to the band back in 2000 when they were performing on Saturday Night Live. This was the same night The Rock and Triple H appeared on the show.
Back in November, McMahon and John Cena were spotted at the AC/DC concert at Madison Square Garden.
.
Even With Oscar Nod, Mickey's Humble
With an Oscar nomination under his belt for his gripping performance in 'The Wrestler,' Mickey Rourke's roller-coaster ride back to the top of Hollywood is one for the ages. Now, Rourke is opening up about just how close to the bottom he was to Matt Lauer, and why he was hesitant to take the part that has resurrected his career.
Talking with Lauer on 'Today' on Friday, Rourke said that there "were some parallels there that were a little too close to home" between himself and 'The Wrestler' character Randy 'The Ram' Robinson. Those parallels, for those who haven't seen the movie or followed Rourke's career, include fleeting fame, drug use and family woes...More?
source: popeater.com
During the interview, Mickey says that Vince McMahon "very much supports it (the movie)"
Randy Orton praises Ric Flair and Triple H; "They made me what I am today"
Highlights from an interview Randy Orton did with ESPN:
How did Flair and Triple H help you in your career?
"I have to give props to both Triple H and Ric Flair. When I was a part of Evolution, we rode together from town to town and that was a great experience for me because while my father taught me quite a bit about out-of-the-ring psychology, Flair and Hunter, I really learned a lot from them about how to perform inside the ring. Being involved in tag matches with them and seeing how they react to certain situations that come up in the ring, it became second nature to me. I got to wrestle against people like Shawn Michaels and Goldberg with Flair and Hunter in my ear teaching me right from wrong, pointing out my mistakes. But a big part of that was also me being good enough to correct that mistake and not make it again. Learning from my mistakes at the same time being criticized by Triple H and Ric Flair made me what I am today. Without them, I definitely wouldn't be here right now in this position."
Orton had more to say about Triple H:
"...And of course, Triple H is right there too, giving me all the little tips. He loves this business. He is one of those guys who was a fan growing up, but it's different with him because he got it so quick, the understanding of how everything works and the psychology you need to have in the ring and with the fans."
This Day in Wrestling History
Lou Thesz defeated Buddy Rogers for the NWA Heavyweight Wrestling title
January 24, 1963
Hacksaw Jim Duggan wins the first ever WWF(E) Royal Rumble match
January 24, 1988
Chris Jericho defeated Rey Mysterio for the WCW Cruiserweight title
January 24, 1998
The Rock defeated Mankind for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title
January 24, 1999
Sid Vicious defeated Kevin Nash for the vacant WCW Heavyweight title
January 24, 2000
January 23, 2009
The Rumbling of Foul Play
The Moscow Mauler lives up to his name, pinning The Game on the way to the Royal Rumble. Full Results.
Hulk Hogan Desperate for the WWE Spotlight...and Money
PWinsider is reporting that according to two sources, a yellow Mustang drove up to the parking lot at Florida Championship Wrestling's headquarters in Tampa at 6:00 p.m. just before last night's scheduled show. The car pulled up near the steps to the arena where the fans hang out and the driver rolled down the window to reveal himself as Hulk Hogan. Hogan told the fans to "find someone in there for him to wrestle" and that he would be back. Hogan drove off and never came back.
Brett Hart Compilation Video
A fan made this video and Brett posted it on his official website. It is set to the theme song from The Wrestler by Bruce Springsteen.
Rumor Mill - Ric Flair to Induct Steve Austin into the HOF
It has been reported that Ric Flair has agreed to terms with World Wrestling Entertainment to induct "Stone Cold" Steve Austin into this year's WWE Hall of Fame and be a part of Wrestlemania XXV. Austin requested Flair as the one to induct him into the WWE Hall of Fame.
Gladiator Lands Top TNA Role
After going by his own name on the British Indy scene and then becoming a familiar face to millions as Oblivion on Sky One’s Gladiators, Nick Aldis signed up with TNA Wrestling and made his debut in Manchester on Tuesday night.
Dubbed “the Modern-day Gladiator”, he took on Consequences Creed in a entertaining singles bout and came out on top after hitting a finishing move which resembled a hybrid of John Cena’s FU and a Death Valley Driver...More?
source: the sun
This Day in Wrestling History
Hulk Hogan wins his first WWF(E) World Title defeating The Iron Sheik at Madison Square Garden
January 23, 1984
Road Warriors reunited
January 23, 1996
Eric Bischoff promoted to President of WCW
January 23, 1998
Chris Jericho defeated Chyna and Hardcore Holly for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title
January 23, 2000
January 22, 2009
Article in support of Linda McMahon's appointment to the Connecticut Board of Education
The recent appointment of Linda McMahon of Greenwich to the State Board of Education by Gov. M. Jodi Rell is not as wacky as some seem to think. What would be much worse would be the failure to reappoint the current board chairman, Allan B. Taylor.
Ms. McMahon, a Rell campaign contributor, is chief executive officer of Stamford-based World Wrestling Entertainment, and sometimes takes part in the turnbuckle melodrama. A video circulating on the Internet shows Ms. McMahon in the ring delivering a well-placed knee to a man with whom she was apparently displeased.
But this is show business; primitive, perhaps, but popular. Ms. McMahon is by many accounts a skilled business executive who has nurtured WWE into a major international media and entertainment corporation.
She has also engaged her company in education and literacy programs, among other charitable ventures. She's won a number of awards and honors, and is on the board of Sacred Heart University in Fairfield...More?
source: courant.com
WWE Dominates Latest Billboard DVD Sales
Below is this week's Billboard Recreational Sports DVD sales chart:
1) WWE: Edge: A Decade Of Decadence
2) WWE: Survivor Series 2008
3) MLB: 2008 World Series: Philadelphia Phillies Vs. Tampa Bay Rays
4) WWE: The Twisted, Disturbed Life Of Kane
5) WWE: Hell In A Cell
6) WWE: The History Of The Intercontinental Championship
7) WWE: Viva La Raza: The Legacy Of Eddie Guerrero
8) The Perfect Season: The 2008 Phillies Video Yearbook
9) TNA: Bound For Glory IV
10) Bejing 2008 Olympics Opening Ceremony
Interview with Randy Orton
Randy Orton did an interview ith Lou Ramirez on KJ-97 out of San Antonio, Texas. You can listen to it here. Orton discussed what's it like being on top of the WWE, his anger issues, Stone Cold being inducted into the Hall of Fame, and more. This is what he had to say on his past mistakes:
"I had a couple rough patches early in my career. I think I might have made some bad choices here and there...a little misconduct here and there, but it's made me into who I am today. I've learned from my own mistakes and the company definitely has faith in me and my abilities and it's great to be very busy on Monday nights".
Live Blog with Melina
The challenger for the Women's Title will join WWE Universe for a Q&A session on the Royal Rumble Live Blog. The blog starts at 6:30 p.m. ET Jan. 25, with Melina's Q&A starting at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Interview with Jonathan Coachman
After nine years as a WWE performer, "The Coach" Jonathan Coachman left the promotion last year to pursue another type of announcing career. Coachman is now anchoring segments for ESPN News along with other broadcasting responsibilities for the all-sports network.
"Sportscasting has always been my dream," Coachman said in a recent telephone interview. "I enjoy wrestling and I'm a fan, but I never wanted to spend my whole life in it. This was a no-brainer for me."...More?
source: scrippsnews.com
Vince banged up from Orton's kick on Raw
According to Jim Ross, Vince McMahon got pretty banged up from being punted by Randy Orton Monday night. Ross says Vince may have sustained a concussion (unconfirmed) but he did receive a cut either on or above his ear from RKO's boot laces.
Oscar Nominations for "The Wrestler"
Mickey Rourke has been nominated for Best Actor and Marissa Tomei was nominated for Best Supporting Actress. The Oscar Awards air on February 22, 2009 at 8:00pm EST on ABC.
I'm pissed that they didn't nominate Bruce Springsteen for Best Song.
Royal Rumble to Sell Out
Detroit, the home of this Sunday’s Royal Rumble pay per view, is one of the most depressed markets in the country. However, despite the recession, World Wrestling Entertainment®’s demand remains high as the Rumble at Joe Louis Arena is virtually sold out. For those that are not fortunate enough to attend the Royal Rumble, fans can watch the event on pay per view.
The WWE considers itself “The best value in entertainment,” said Linda McMahon, CEO of WWE. “We give more bang for the buck at live events and pay per views. You’re guaranteed 3 hours of electrifying action. No quick knockouts or submissions as in boxing or mixed martial arts.”...More?
This Day in Wrestling History
One night after Vader's WWF(E) debut, he attacks WWF(E) President Gorilla Monsoon and is suspended for the incident
January 22, 1996
January 21, 2009
Vince & Stephanie Happy with Raw Finisher
Backstage reactions to the final two segments on WWE RAW this week were great. Vince and Stephanie McMahon were said to be very happy and excited after the show was over and felt like everything went just as they had planned. Besides Vince and Stephanie, most everybody else thought things went great this week and they had one of the best RAW episodes in recent memory.
source: nodq.com
Rankings for the top 5 programs on cable networks as compiled by Nielsen Media Research for the week of Jan. 12-18. Day and start time (EST) are in parentheses:
1. (tied) President George W. Bush's Farewell Address (Thursday, 8 p.m.), Fox News Channel, 3.53 million homes, 4.86 million viewers.
1. (tied) "WWE Raw" (Monday, 10 p.m.), USA, 3.53 million homes, 5.41 million viewers.
3. "Monk" (Friday, 9 p.m.), USA, 3.51 million homes, 4.94 million viewers.
4. "WWE Raw" (Monday, 9 p.m.), USA, 3.40 million homes, 5.09 million viewers.
5. Movie: "Another Cinderella Story" (Sunday, 8 p.m.), ABC Family, 3.28 million homes, 5.30 million viewers.
Ric Flair Comments on Missing Pro Wrestling
In a recent interview, Ric Flair admitted that he misses pro wrestling:
"I miss it -- I'm not going to lie. Yeah, I get to talk to the guys, I watch the show, so I keep on top of it. It was time. The company came to me with a suggestion to induct me as an active wrestler, and possibly having my last match. They made it really great, the whole three-day thing -- it was a lot cooler than anything they've ever done at Canton (in the Pro Football Hall of Fame)."...More?
source: pittsburghlive.com
WWE And Telefónica Launch Official Website In Spain
Telecommunications giant Telefónica and World Wrestling Entertainment® (WWE) have jointly launched the official WWE local language website in Spain this month. The Spanish site can be found at: www.wwe.es...More?
Injury Update on Awesome Kong
It has been reported that TNA Women's Knockout Champion Awesome Kong is suffering from a bad back and she also has a bad knee, which will likely need surgery soon. TNA officials are hoping she will be able to wrestle at next week's set of Impact tapings. Kong was pulled from the European tour due to her injuries.
Matt Hardy Responds to Eric Bischoff's Negative Comments
Matt Hardy has responded to Eric Bischoff referring to him as a "friggin' goof" in his current myspace blog. Bischoff made the statement in reaction to Hardy's previous blog in which he reviewed The Wrestler and noted that today's professional wrestlers are "smarter and more responsible.":
"I find it funny that my 'suggestions make him sick,' yet he cares enough about me and my blog to read it and actually comment on it," Hardy wrote. "Because I certainly didn't even know he had a blog or gave a damn about it until someone made me aware of it. So I'm gonna give this individual just what he was looking for by taking a couple of ignorant jabs towards someone he apparently cares about-some publicity on the net...More?
This Day in Wrestling History
Stone Cold Steve Austin becomes the first ever 3 time winner of the WWF(E) Royal Rumble, also winning the event in 1997 and 1998
January 21, 2001
January 20, 2009
ECW Results: Ready to Rumble
World Tag Team Champion John Morrison pinned his partner in a Fatal Four Way Match to give the Tuesday Night Delight a victory against three of his 29 opponents in the Royal Rumble Match. Full results.
MyNetworkTV Eases Past CW
Unlike the other broadcast networks, which are seeing an erosion of ratings, upstart MyNetworkTV has seen ratings grow this season. In fact, MyNetworkTV is the only of the six English-speaking broadcast nets to grow this season...More?
source: mediabuyerplanner.com
MVP: Big things are poppin' again
This past Friday on SmackDown, General Manager Vickie Guerrero thought she had engineered a sure-fire way to kick Triple H out of Sunday’s Royal Rumble. But, Montel Vontavious Porter surprised both Guerrero and the WWE Universe by breaking his 20-week losing streak, beating Big Show in a Last Man Standing Match with a little help from an unlikely ally.
Inside even the most downtrodden WWE Superstar lives the heart of a lion that will never retreat and never surrender. In an absolutely grueling match, the combination of MVP’s straight ballin’ refusal to stay down - no matter what Big Show threw his way – and a hard-hitting shot from the mighty sledgehammer of The Game allowed MVP to literally rise to the occasion as The World’s Largest Athlete failed to beat the 10-count...More?
Complete list of MVP's losing streak.
Box office figures for "The Wrestler"
Fox Searchlight's "The Wrestler" starring Mickey Rourke brought in $1.7 million this weekend at the box office according to Boxofficemojo.com. The film has brought in an estimated $5,387,000 with a release in 144 theaters.
Lashley: 'I Can Match Up with Any Heavyweight Right Now'
Wrestling for the WWE for three years seems to take center stage, but that’s a distinction Lashley hopes will take a backseat after joining American Top Team.
“Coming into MMA, I just wanted to make sure people realize that I’m coming in this for real and I want to be known as a fighter that used to be a professional wrestler as opposed to a professional wrestler that’s now fighting,”...More?
source: sherdog.com
CM Punk now a triple crown winner in WWE
According to PWInsider, CM Punk has now become a triple crown champion in WWE after his Intercontinental Championship win on last night's Raw. Punk has won the triple crown (World Heavyweight Championship, Tag Team Championship and Intercontinental Championship) faster than anyone else in the history of the company in just 203 days. The only person who has reportedly come close is Kevin Nash who become a triple crown champion in 227 days.
Raw Results: Disastrous Return
Mr. McMahon's return to Raw didn't go as well as he would have hoped, as the show ended with Randy Orton refusing to apologize for his actions, and punctuating that refusal with a cruel punt to the Chairman's skull. Full results.
This Day in Wrestling History - Bobo Brazil passes away
Houston Harris was an American professional wrestler, better known by his ring name, Bobo Brazil. Harris was credited with breaking down barriers of racial segregation in professional wrestling. Harris is considered one of the first successful African-American professional wrestlers, and is often referred to as "the Jackie Robinson of professional wrestling." Originally, Houston was to be known as "Boo-Boo Brazil", but a promoter misprinted his first name as "Bobo" in a print advertisement and it stuck.
Early in his career, some wrestling promoters would match Brazil against fellow African-American wrestlers. Fans clamored to see Brazil face opponents of any type and Brazil would have many matches with competitors such as Killer Kowalski, Dick the Bruiser, Johnny Valentine, and The Sheik, who feuded with Bobo over the course of several decades. These and other rivals would all fall victim to Brazil's finishing maneuver, the Coco Butt (which was a headbutt). Brazil also once wrestled André the Giant to a draw, and challenged Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF Championship in a battle of two top babyface competitors. On October 18th, 1962 Bobo Brazil made history by becoming the first Black American to win the NWA World Heavyweight Title by defeating "Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers. (This distinction is often mistakenly given to Ron Simmons, the first recognized African-American world champion after winning the WCW Title). Although Bobo Brazil initially refused the title (because of an "injury" that Rogers had claimed to have), Brazil was awarded the title the next day after doctors had found nothing wrong with Rogers. However, this title change is not recognized by the NWA. Brazil served as a mentor to wrestler "Soulman Rocky Johnson".
Brazil's manager was James Dudley, the first African-American to be in charge of a major arena in the United States. Dudley would run to the ring waving a towel, as Brazil followed behind. Brazil was inducted into the WWF Hall of Fame in 1994.
source: wikipedia.org
Bobo Brazil vs Buddy Rogers
Houston "Bobo Brazil" Harris July 10, 1924 — January 20, 1998
This Day in Wrestling History
Mr. Perfect returns to the WWE for the 2002 Royal Rumble and lasts until the final four
January 20, 2002
January 19, 2009
Another fan altercation involving Randy Orton
It was reported earlier this month that Randy Orton was involved in an altercation with a fan at the Ft. Lauderdale house show. Now there is another report of an incident at the La Crosse, Wisconsin house show:
Randy Orton had an altercation with a fan reports The Wrestling Observer/Figure Four Online. It remains to be seen how it got started, but it appears the fan said something to Orton that upset him. Orton then got in the fans face, used some bad language, lost his cool and shoved the guard railing into the fans legs. One report added that Orton grabbed the fans hat and threw it. Security had to separate the two.
Princess Jasmine took her act to the road
Princess Jasmine owes much of her career -- and her name -- to her mentor, Dick Afflis, better known to wrestling fans as Dick the Bruiser. Originally from Chicago, Cynthia Peretti was a wrestling fan growing up, attending the matches on a regular basis. In 1968, The Bruiser saw something in the 5-foot-9 athletic woman, and suggested that Peretti give wrestling a try. After three months training with Prince Calvin Pullins, she was a pro, forgoing nursing training.
This April, she is being honored by the Cauliflower Alley Club for her contributions to women's wrestling...More?
source: slam wreslting
This Day in Wrestling History
Ric Flair wins the Royal Rumble and the WWF(E) Heavyweight title
January 19, 1992
Shawn Michaels defeated Psycho Sid for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title
January 19, 1997
WWF(E) New York Restaurant opened in Times Square
January 19, 2000
January 18, 2009
Off-The-Chart Reaction for Triple H in Charleston, WV
Fan report of the house show in WV:
Vladimir Kozlov strolled to the ring next to a rain of heavy boos for his street fight match with Triple H. Hunter made his way out to an EXPLOSIVE pop. He was major over with the crowd. Very, very loud reception for him. This match saw the use of the ring steps, a steel chair, and a trash can, but nothing got as big as a pop as when Triple H bought out his sledge hammer (seriously...the second loudest pop of the night). He missed Kozlov with the hammer and wound up getting choked by an electrical cord or what seemed like forever. But Triple H was able to recover and nail the pedegree for the pin. Afterwards, Triple H took several minutes to make his way around ringside and shake hands and give high fives to just about anyone who he could reach. He also made a point to do this up and down both sides of the aisle. I thought this was a pretty nice show of class and appreciation for the fans.
source: f4wonline.com
Interview with Mean Gene Okerlund
"Let me tell you something Mean Gene!" That simple phrase from Hulk Hogan was heard countless times during the 1980's and helped propel Mean Gene Okerlund into a household name. He is one of the most distinctive voices during the past three decades of wrestling. In 2006, Okerlund earned his spot in the WWE Hall of Fame and he continues to work for the company to this day.
The Orlando Sentinel spoke with Mean Gene about his career and also the upcoming Hall of Fame ceremony...More?
This Day in Wrestling History
Ivan Koloff defeated Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF(WWE) Heavyweight title
January 18, 1971
Happy Birthday to:
Ted DiBiase
January 18, 1954
Dave Batista
January 18, 1969
January 17, 2009
WWE Reveal Top 20 Rivalries
The WWE have published a book their best wrestling rivalries of the last 20 years. The company selected a panel of 50 experts to come up with a Top 20 and the final list, as with all releases, was signed off personally by Vince McMahon. The final list, in the historical order of when the rivalries took place, is:
Hulk Hogan v Randy Savage
Mr Perfect v Ric Flair
Bret Hart v Steve Austin
nWo v D-Generation X
Mankind v Shawn Michaels
Shawn Michaels v Bret Hart
Undertaker v Kane
Steve Austin v Vince McMahon
Triple H v The Rock
The Rock v Steve Austin
Edge & Christian v Hardys v Dudleys
Chris Jericho v Stephanie McMahon v Triple H
John Cena v JBL
Randy Orton v Undertaker
Matt Hardy v Edge
Rey Mysterio v Eddie Guerrero
Batista v Triple H
Edge v John Cena
D-Generation X v The McMahons
Undertaker v Batista
source: the sun
Chris Benoit's doctor to change plea in drug case
Phil Astin is scheduled to change his "not guilty" plea on his 175-count indictment that charges him with conspiracy and improperly dispensing drugs, according to the Associated Press...More?
Rumor Mill - Why Manu was kicked out of The Legacy
Several pushed for Manu to be kicked out of The Legacy, most notably, Randy Orton. The feeling is that he isn't in the same league or had the same amount of potential as others in the group, and didn't really fit in as a result. Many believe the group would be better off with Orton, Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase and possibly DH Smith.
source: f4wonline.com