April 30, 2009
WWE Superstars Results: Divas Make 'Superstars' Debut
This week's “WWE Superstars” on WGN America showed off the results of WWE's recent Draft. Raw newcomer and Unified Tag Team Champion Carlito faced The Legacy's Ted DiBiase, while some of SmackDown's newest Divas met some of the Sexiest Women of Friday nights. Also, the rivalry between Evan Bourne and the Burchills got even more Extreme...More?
source: wwe.com
Potential Booms and Busts of the WWE Draft
Two weeks after announcing roster changes, WWE officially unveiled new talent lineups on all three of its television brands ("Raw," "Smackdown" and "Extreme Championship Wrestling"). A whopping 36 performers were swapped, the highest total since the WWE began conducting its annual draft in 2002.
In theory, the draft's main purpose is to create new headline matches and give up-and-coming wrestlers the chance to climb WWE's talent ladder.
Unlike with NFL draft picks, it doesn't take several years to judge whether grapplers will flourish in their new WWE surroundings. After the first week of programming, here's a look at this draft's potential booms and busts:
Boom
The Miz, MVP & Carlito and Primo Colon
Busts
The Brian Kendrick, Mr. Kennedy, Zack Ryder, Curt Hawkins, Jesse and Festus
...More?
source: scrippsnews.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Superstar Billy Graham defeated Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF(WWE) Heavyweight title.
April 30, 1977
Greg Valentine defeated Roddy Piper for the NWA U.S. Heavyweight title
April 30, 1983
Chris Benoit defeated Booker T for the WCW Television title.
April 30, 1998
The Rock defeated Triple H for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title at Backlash at the MCI Center, Washington, DC.
April 30, 2000
Craig Sinclair Robbins
Today is the fourth anniversary of my friend's death.
March 1962 - April 30, 2005 RIP
April 29, 2009
"Sureshot" Derek Wayne, Indy Wrestler Passes Away
Maryland indy wrestler "Sureshot" Derek Wayne was found dead in his parents home today. He wrestled for local indys such as MCW and MEWF and gave it his all each time he stepped in the ring.
Derek's sister, Megan, posted the following on her myspace blog:
I'm not even sure where to start. i just felt i needed to write about it so what better place than here to share it with my family and friends. last night my brother took his own life. i know he had alot of problems and alot of demons within himself i just wish he would have came and talked to me instead of thinking that was the only option he had left. he thought so bad about himself and he thought he was a failure i just wish he was still here so i could tell him how wonderful of a person he was. derek and i were always so close growin up and we did everything together. i looked up to him. he was my hero. me having to be the one to find him has definatly takin its toll on me right now my head is just so fucked up. i just wish i could get the image of finding him like that out of my head. right now i just feel so mad at him for what he did for being so selfish and takin himself away from us and the i feel worse about myself for bein mad at him. i just wanna say for those of us who were lucky enough to have known him we know how great of a person he was and for those of u who didn't have the pleasure to have met him believe me when i say u missed out on knowin one of the greatest men who ever walked this earth. last night while sayin good bye to my brother at the hospital i promised him that i would look after his 4 beautiful children for him and i will make sure i keep that promise i just wished that one day when i have children they could have known there uncle derek but the stories and memories of him will always carry on i promise that. i miss u and love u so much derek and i'm so sorry i couldn't save u i tried so hard. i love u derek R.I.P.
Update on Hurricane Helms
From Jim Ross' blog:
Gregory "Hurricane" Helms is now doing backstage interviews for ECW and he should bring added entertainment value to the program. Helms isn't 100% physically and this assignment can keep the North Carolinian on TV and in the publics eye. His wrestling future is unknown.
Jeff Hardy Contract Update, Shopping a Reality Show to MTV
Jeff Hardy is giving the impression to friends that he will re-sign with WWE before his contract expires this summer. He's said to be burned out with the schedule and additional time off will likely be something he requests in contract negotiations.
In related news, Hardy has had talks with MTV regarding a reality television project. It's said to be tied to "The Hardy Show" that he and his brother produce together online. The MTV talks are simply at the discussion level, but Jeff is said to be very excited about the idea of having his a reality show on the network.
source: prowrestling.net
Playboy Buddy Rose Passes Away
Former AWA, Portland Wrestling, and WWF(E) star Playboy Buddy Rose (Paul Perschmann) was found dead by his wife on Tuesday afternoon. Rose had been dealing with diabetic issues in recent years...More?
www.playboybuddyrose.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Stone Cold Steve Austin & Triple H defeated The Undertaker & Kane to win the WWF(E) Tag Team Titles.
April 29, 2001
April 28, 2009
ECW Results: Championship Interrupted
Despite confirmation that he’ll receive an ECW Championship rematch at Judgment Day, a vengeful Jack Swagger refused to let Tommy Dreamer get his chance at Christian’s title on ECW on Sci Fi. After attacking the ECW Champion and the ECW Original and sending a strong message that he wants reclaim the Extreme Title, Swagger got his swagger back. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Rumor Mill - How Long Will Triple H Be Out?
Following the injury angle at the Backlash pay-per-view on Sunday night, former WWE Champion Triple H is expected to be out of action until the summer. He will be back in time for a revenge angle this summer as the early plan for the main event at SummerSlam is Triple H vs. Randy Orton.
Rumor Mill - Two TNA Stars Suspended
TNA Knockouts Rhaka Khan and Roxxi are currently serving unofficial 60 day suspensions as punishment for their involvement in a backstage altercation at an iMPACT taping last month, that we reported on shortly after it happened. Roxxi reportedly felt Khan had worked too stiff with her during their match earlier that day, resulting in her getting a black eye.
source: f4wonline.com
Does the WWE finally realize it is time to make new stars?
Sunday's Backlash pay-per-view produced matches and finishes that many felt should have taken place at WrestleMania 25. Most notably, Triple H and John Cena lost their matches (and their championships). On top of that, they were both taken out of the arena on stretchers. I would never wish for someone to get injured, but the "Goodbye song" chants directed at Triple H should have woken up the brass in WWE.
Triple H is a valuable member of the roster. However, while he does deserve his spot on the card, he could be used so much more effectively than he is...More?
source: prowrestling.net
Details on Ric Flair's Ring of Honor Debut on May 2nd
Ric Flair will serve as the Ambassador of "Ring of Honor Wrestling" on HDNet. New ROH World Champion Jerry Lynn is ready to back up his promise to be a fighting champion, but with a number of worthy challengers, it's up to "The Nature Boy" to determine who will have the honor of taking on Lynn in the first ROH World Title match on HDNet...More?
This Day in Wrestling History
Owen Hart defeated Rocky Maivia(The Rock) for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
April 28, 1997
Wrestling legend, Lou Thesz, passes away at the age of 86.
April 28, 2002
April 27, 2009
"Kardinal Sinners" Docu-Drama - A Peek into the Rollercoaster Ride of Indy Wrestling
Keep your eyes peeled for a new wrestling series that documents the struggles of earning a living and achieving recognition on the indy circuit, all the while maintaining family and friendships.
Kardinal Sinners, a Canadian East Coast production that premiers April 27 on the RUSH HD specialty channel, follows a troop of heels wrestling on a six-date tour from Cape Breton to Ottawa...More?
source: slam wrestling
Matt Hardy Suffers Broken Hand
WWE.com has learned that Matt Hardy suffered a broken hand in his loss to his brother, Jeff, last night at Backlash during the siblings' "I Quit" Match.
According to WWE physician Dr. Amman, Matt broke his second metacarpal in his right hand, requiring that the Raw Superstar wear a cast.
source: wwe.com
Reid Flair Arrested Again: Felony DUI, Heroin Found In His Car
WSOC TV in Charlotte, NC is reporting that Reid Flair, son of Ric Flair, was arrested again on Sunday and is facing felony charges after Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said they found heroin inside his car. Flair has also been charged with driving while impaired and driving with a revoked license. Click here for the full story.
Lance Hoyt Announces He Has Signed with WWE
Former TNA wrestler Lance Hoyt announced at last night's Professional Championship Wrestling event in Arlington, Texas that he has signed a contract with WWE. The promotion aired a tribute video for him at the end of the show as all of the wrestlers gave Hoyt a farewell celebration.
source: pwinsider.com
Christian, Triple H & Edge Title News
Christian became the first wrestler to win TNA's top title and then return to WWE and win a brand's top title. Edge's win last night gives him a total of 9 top WWE Title reigns, second only to Triple H who has 13. This was Edge's 5th time winning the World Heavyweight Title, tying him with Triple H for most times holding that belt. Backlash 2009 was the first time since WWE has had a major title on all three brands that the top title for each brand has changed hands in one night, not including the interim champions in the Championship Scramble matches at Unforgiven last year.
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Frank Gotch
April 27, 1878 - December 16, 1917
Frank Gotch is truly one of the original pioneers of professional wrestling. Long before the money, fame, and glitz of modern wrestling, long before the post WWII boom of Gorgeous George and "TV wrestling," before Lou Thesz, before Ed "Strangler" Lewis, before there was even a such thing as a "federation" in wrestling, there was Frank Gotch.
During this fleeting time of legitimacy in wrestling, Gotch was renowned for his great skill and power, despite his deceivingly small stature, and became perhaps wrestling's first true box-office attraction. As crafty and ruthless as he was skilled, Gotch held the undisputed World Title until he retired, undefeated as champion. His professional record was an impressive 132 victories out of 140 total matches...with several of his losses coming in handicapped matches. His bouts with Hackenschmidt, Jenkins, Stanislaus Zbysko and others were truly legendary...and can be traced back to the earliest days of what we now know as professional wrestling...More?
source: wrestlingmuseum.com
April 26, 2009
Punter's Quarry
With such heated, personal rivalries in play, it should come as no surprise that the match dissolved into chaos, with fights spilling out of the ring. As Batista prepared to clobber DiBiase with a steel chair, Triple H intervened, taking the chair from his opponent. As decreed by Raw’s General Manager Vickie Guerrero, if The Game’s team were to become disqualified, it would result in Orton leaving Backlash as the new WWE Champion. This brief distraction was all The Legend Killer needed to strike, leveling his nemesis with a RKO. To the amazement of Orton and the WWE Universe alike, Triple H managed to kick out of the subsequent pin. Refusing to accept defeat, “The Viper” lashed out once again, striking The Game in the temple with a sadistic punt.
As The Legacy made their way up the ramp, with Orton clutching the WWE Title, the fans in attendance kept their eyes glued on the ring, where Triple H lay motionless after “The Viper’s” attack. Suffering from the same maneuver that has put so many Superstars out of commission – some permanently – The Game was loaded onto a stretcher, quickly removed from the ring and taken from the Dunkin Donuts Center in an ambulance as his partners and the WWE Universe looked on in grave concern. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Backlash Results
ECW Champion Jack Swagger (c) vs. Christian
Winner: Christian - New ECW Champion
Chris Jericho vs. WWE Hall of Famer Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat
Winner: Chris Jericho
CM Punk vs. Kane
Winner: Kane
Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy ("I Quit" Match)
Winner: Matt Hardy
WWE Champion Triple H, Batista & Shane McMahon vs. Randy Orton & The Legacy
Winner: Randy Orton - New WWE Champion
After the match, Orton and Legacy head to the back. Triple H is laid out in the ring after the punt kick. Batista and Shane sit in the ring around him as WWE officials and medics come down. They put Triple H in a stretcher and on a neck brace. We go to replays of the punt kick. Triple H is taken to the back on a stretcher as we go to a break.
World Heavyweight Champion John Cena vs. Edge (Last Man Standing Match)
Winner: Edge - New World Heavyweight Champion
Triple H Donates Items for Silent Auction at The World School
Earlier this month, Triple H donated several items for a silent auction at The World School to benefit their Tuition Assistance Program. The World School is located in Nashua, NH and their Director is Lynn Ouellette, Hunter's sister. She is also a member of the Advisory Board. The items Hunter donated have been sold, but you can view them here.
Rumor Mill - Shawn Michaels Taking Much-Needed Break
Very few performers in the business today have the ability to single-handedly affect the quality of a pro wrestling show and the quality of a pro wrestling company.
Shawn Michaels is one of them, and he looks to be out of action for the next few months.
Reports have surfaced that Michaels, who has not appeared on WWE television since his Wrestlemania 25 match against The Undertaker three weeks ago, is taking some time off...More?
source: postandcourier.com
Poll Results - Who will turn on Hunter at Backlash?
Stephanie
1 - vote (14%)
Shane
3 - votes (42%)
Batista
1 - vote (14%)
No One
2 - votes (28%)
This Day in Wrestling History
Sting defeated Diamond Dallas Page for the WCW Title. That same night, DDP regained the title defeating Sting, Bill Goldberg and Hulk Hogan.
April 26, 1999
Happy Birthday to Kane (Glen Jacobs)
April 26, 1967
April 25, 2009
Kaliqo's Backlash Predictions, Picks & Speculations
World Heavyweight Champion John Cena vs. Edge (Last Man Standing Match)
With both Championship titles on Raw, I would expect Edge to win and take the title to SmackDown.
ECW Champion Jack Swagger vs. Christian
I'm not sure how long Vince wants to punish Christian for leaving the WWE and going to TNA, but I hope he gets the title. I could see him in a feud with Hurricane Helms or Vladimir Kozlov. Kozlov needs all the help he can get.
WWE Champion Triple H, Batista & Shane McMahon vs. Randy Orton & The Legacy
I think we should expect a swerve here. Shane should turn on Hunter and cost him the title. Creative has yet to address Shane's response to Stephanie slapping him back in January and he could take out his revenge against her husband.
Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy ("I Quit" Match)
If the rumors are true, I think the outcome of the match depends on Jeff Hardy's contract status.
Chris Jericho vs. WWE Hall of Famer Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat
This match has great potential. Steamboat still has it, but I don't want to see him return full time to the ring. Jericho should win and let this be Steamboat's swansong.
CM Punk vs. Kane
I'm not interested in this match at all.
Khali and Santina to lock up
Are they serious? This is such a joke. First they had "Santina" win the Diva Battle Royal at WM25, then this Khali kiss-cam bullsh*t. I can't believe they are wasting time on a pay-per-view with this crap. I wonder who Santino pissed off to get booked this way.
Rival Angels Webcomic Blurs Reality/Kayfabe Lines
Reality TV meets women's wrestling in a webcomic about a girls-only mega promotion.
Rival Angels, the name of the comic and its fictional WWE-like wrestling federation, centres around rookie Sabrina "Ultragirl" Mancini and her three roommates as they try to climb the pro ranks. It is a mix of storyline and kayfabe, for the wrestlers actually compete to win in the ring, and yet at the same time, the owner of the federation talks about who she wants to "push."
"The story lines of pro wrestling but the reality of, for example, mixed martial arts," explained creator and artist Alan Evans. "The description I like to use is, 'Reality TV meets women's wrestling.'...More?
source: slam wrestling
Rival Angels website
SmackDown/ECW House Show Results - Geneva, Switzerland
Triple H & The Undertaker beat Priceless (Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase) with a Pedigree/Tombstone double finish.
After the match, Triple H spent almost 5 minutes going around the ring to shake everyone's hand and spreading his sweat all over our hands and shirts. He also went specifically to the sector reserved for the disabled, shook their hands, and showed them the WWE Championship belt. Nice gesture!
Special mention for the biggest single crowd reaction of the night - Triple H gesturing for the whole crowd to cheer at once...More?
source: prowrestling.net
TNA iMPACT! Rating Breakdown
The April 23rd episode of TNA iMPACT did a 1.23 rating, with an average audience of 1.8 million viewers. This is the fifth largest audience ever. TNA fell from the #1 spot last week to the #2 spot this week in the males 18-49 demographic, beaten once again by the NBA playoffs on TNT...More?
source: pwpix.net
This Day in Wrestling History
In a very surprising move by WCW, David Arquette pinned Eric Bischoff in a tag team match to become the new WCW Champion that saw Arquette team with DDP against Bischoff & Jeff Jarrett. He vacated the title six days later on May 1.
April 25, 2000
VCW Pro Wrestling TV Taping
Saturday, May 02, 2009
7:30 PM to 10:00 PM EDT
Kings Fork Recreation Center
350 Kings Fork Road
Suffolk, VA 23434
This event is a television taping for Fox 43, and features a VCW Heavyweight Title Main Event, and a special Ladies Match.
Vanguard Championship Wrestling
April 24, 2009
SmackDown Results: Bedlam Beckons Backlash
Despite Batista’s misdirected spear on Monday Night Raw, The Animal roared back, catching Cody Rhodes with a high-impact spinebuster as The Legacy Superstar was leaping from the top rope. Shane McMahon picked up the pin, transferring invaluable momentum away from Legacy as they head into this Sunday’s pay-per-view. Full results.
source: wwe.com
TNA Slammiversary News
TNA will be holding this year's Slammiversary pay-per-view at The Palace of Auburn Hills in Detroit, Michigan. Tickets for the June 21st event go on sale Friday, May 8th. The arena holds up to 24,276 seats for a center-stage concert, not to mention 23,000 for an end-stage concert. This will be by far the biggest arena TNA has ever held an event in stateside.
Jakks Pacific Blames WWE for 17 Percent First Quarter Decline in Revenue
WWE's official toy manufacturer, Jakks Pacific, blamed WWE, Pokemon, and Hannah Montana for a 17 percent decline in revenue from the first quarter 2008 to the similar January - March period this year.
Jakks reported a first quarter loss of $10.8 million compared to a profit of $877,000 in the prior year quarter. The company blamed declining sales of WWE's toy line for contributing to the profit loss...More?
source: associated press
Glamour, Glitz & Divas - The Untold Story of American Women's Wrestling
Dedicated to the late Sherri Martel, this DVD focuses a great deal on women breaking into a male-dominated business and the history of women's roles in pro wrestling. Many of the interviews look to have come from previous RF Video spots.
One of the first interviews is with The Fabulous Moolah and Mae Young and as if we didn't know how old Mae Young is, she discusses seeing Ed "Strangler" Lewis back in her Oklahoma childhood. Good stuff here and, sorry Vince, but she doesn't lose her top. Bummer.
Moolah says she either wanted to be like Mildred Burke or the next Amelia Earhart. Pretty sure she made the right choice...More?
source: slam wrestling
This Day in Wrestling History - Johnny Valentine passes away
Buddy Rogers vs. Johnny Valentine - 1953
Johnny Valentine (born John Theodore Wisniski, September 22, 1928–April 24, 2001) was a professional wrestler with a career spanning almost three decades. He has been inducted into four halls of fame for his achievements in wrestling. Wisniski is the father of professional wrestler Greg "The Hammer" Valentine.
He held numerous world champion and regional titles, including the NWA United States Championship and the World Heavyweight title. He had long running rivalries with Bobo Brazil, Pat O'Connor, Buddy Rogers, Antonio Rocca, Lou Thesz, Harley Race, The Sheik, Wahoo McDaniel, Fritz von Erich, Bruno Sammartino, Johnny Powers, Antonio Inoki and Jack & Jerry Brisco. He alternated between being a villain and a hero during the Golden Era in the 1940s through 1960s of wrestling.
In 1975, he was injured in a plane crash; he suffered a broken back and was forced to retire from wrestling. He worked briefly as a manager before retiring altogether. He suffered from several health problems during his career, which worsened considerably after a fall in 2000. He died the following year.
source: wikipedia.org
April 23, 2009
WWE Superstars Results: Edge Stands Tall
Mere days before he meets World Heavyweight Champion John Cena in a Last Man Standing Match at this Sunday’s Backlash, Edge went one-on-one with the explosive Kofi Kingston. The Jamaican Superstar may have been seeking a measure of retribution against The Ultimate Opportunist. At February’s No Way Out, the sadistic Edge savagely attacked Kingston and stole his spot in the Elimination Chamber Match, robbing the high-flyer of his first World Title opportunity. While Kingston utilized his speed and agility in the contest, he ultimately came up short, falling victim to a ferocious spear from The R-Rated Superstar. Full results.
source: wwe.com
AJ Styles to be a Presenter at the
Dove Awards
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles will be appearing live tonight as a presenter at the 40th Annual GMA Dove Awards at 8 p.m. ET on the Gospel Music Channel...More?
source: tnawrestling.com
Wrestlers Rescue Thanks WWE for Help
Wrestlers Rescue (wrestlersrescue.org) thanks WWE for its generous contribution of an encased replica World Title Championship belt, signed by Chris Jericho, Rey Mysterio, John Cena, The Nature Boy Ric Flair and The American Dream Dusty Rhodes with a letter of authenticity. This unique, rare item will sell for charitable auction on April 24 at shop.ebay.com/merchant/dr.deathcampaign, and the starting bid will be $200, plus shipping and handling...More?
source: miamiherald.com
Just Blame Vince McMahon: An Assessment of the Media Treatment of Pro Wrestling
Steroid scandals. Liability lawsuits. Predatory condemnations by the Parents Television Council. Cold, hard statistics on the number of professional wrestlers who have died are referenced and exploited by media sharks honing in on the bloodied eye of a profitable branch of the entertainment industry.
The easy response to the latest tragedy is to censure Vincent Kennedy McMahon, World Wrestling Entertainment Chairman; to decry the so-called barbaric schedule that the business demands from its performers and deplore the content of professional wrestling. Yet, it is questionable as to how the blame and the criticism can be laid solely at the feet of one man.
Provided facts, statistics, and context, can Vince McMahon truly be convicted as the perpetrator of the ills and misfortunes of professional wrestling? Further, is professional wrestling an island unto itself in the tumultuous sea of immoral content and tragic losses?...More?
source: bleacherreport.com
Response to ESPN Writer's Heavy, Uninformed Criticism of Bobby Lashley for Joining TNA
Jake Rossen, editor of Real Fighting magazine and contributor to Sherdog.com, made some pretty bold and abrasive statements on ESPN.com regarding Bobby Lashley's participation in TNA's Lockdown PPV.
He degraded Lashley for appearing on what he called an "embarrassment to the human race" and referred to pro wrestling as "some poorly performed theater for the hygiene-challenged." He then went on to describe wrestling as "a deranged spectacle full of drug-addled performers taxing their adrenal glands in a poorly scripted imitation of athletics."
Tell us how you really feel, Mr. Rossen. Or better yet, tell us what you really know...about pro wrestling, that is. I'd place a safe bet that your knowledge of pro wrestling would not come close to filling a thimble. Now, I'm not going to deride you for your lack of pro wrestling knowledge, but I will question your decision to publicly insult Bobby Lashley and millions of wrestling fans around the world by commenting on a subject you obviously know nothing about. Your comments were not only uncalled for, but very offensive to the performers, the fans, and everyone involved in wrestling...More?
source: pwtorch.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Curt Hennig defeated Tito Santana in a tournament final for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
April 23, 1990
Happy Birthday to:
Tony Atlas
April 23, 1956
Terry Gordy
April, 23, 1961
John Cena
April 23, 1977
April 22, 2009
SmackDown/ECW House Show Results - Birmingham, England
Triple H & Undertaker defeat Randy Orton, Ted DiBiase & Cody Rhodes
HUGE pop for HHH, MONUMENTAL pop for Taker, and good cheer/boos for Orton and Co. Orton went for HHH at start, HHH quickly got advantage and brawled why Taker scarred others away. Orton bolted making it a tag. Orton eventually returned and he and Cody started the usual headlock fest (lots of 'ANOTHER headlock Randy?/Cody?' from me and a few other people).
Randy hit the RKO before HHH took him outside and he ran off backstage again. Taker sat up, DiBiase and Rhodes went to double team him, but HHH slid in behind them and set up a stereo Tombstone and Pedigree. Very good main event. Taker lapped it up first, giving the crowd the usual in ring pose and the raised arm at top of the ramp, before HHH got his cheers in and did a few laps of the ring for the fans before leaving...More?
source: prowrestling.netm
MCW Backlash Viewing Party
Loafers Bar & Grill
6518 Baltimore National Pike
Catonsville, MD 21228
410-719-2121
April 26th @ 7pm
Jim Cornette Comments on Stephanie McMahon Levesque as Head of Creative
For years, the head of the creative team has been Stephanie McMahon, the boss’ daughter. While an intelligent, college-educated woman, her credentials qualifying her to be the head “writer” of a wrestling promotion remain the three words “the boss’ daughter.” Her knowledge of wrestling history, especially of how her father put the territories out of business, is nil, as evidenced by her testimony before Congress. Her experience as a performer has been limited to what she wrote for herself. It’s not her fault entirely, as until she came to work at the WWE after college, she attended the matches sporadically, and certainly no one was going to teach the boss’ daughter anything that might be politically imprudent. Her husband, Triple H, a student of the game, is certainly not going to rock his marriage boat, and much more important to him, his position as the heir to the throne, by telling her any of the negative effects her father has had on the pro wrestling industry in general while building his personal empire.
So Stephanie, as head of creative, hires people like her.Young people with college degrees in writing, many with experience writing scripted television, comedy shows in particular, with little or no respect for wrestling, and little if any experience performing ANYTHING. As a matter of fact, being a fan of wrestling is not even a requirement for the job, and God forbid if you DO admit to being a wrestling fan, and having watched any other wrestling besides WWE, you will at best be viewed as a “mark” and your days numbered.
source: jimcornette.com
Although Jim Cornette has an axe to grind with Vince, which makes his opinions biased, I do agree that at some point WWE Creative needs to put the emphasis back on the wrestling and hire people with wrestling experience. Quite frankly, I think that is why Triple H sits in on production meetings.
And would it hurt if that writer was also a fan?
Diva Receiving Heat for Draft Complaints
There was some backstage heat on WWE Women's Champion Melina for openly complaining about being drafted to SmackDown last week, reports prowrestling.net. Her complaints about being moved to the blue brand have generally drawn eye-rolling and laughter from the wrestlers, who feel she had to know it was a possibility to be drafted just like everyone else.
The three-time WWE Women's Champion has worked hard to improve her reputation in the locker room in the last year or so, but she is once again upsetting people with her behavior.
Hall of Famer Released from his Contract
In a cost-cutting measure, World Wrestling Entertainment released "Superstar" Billy Graham, 65, from his $2,000 per month level consulting contract this past week — saving $24,000 annually.
The WWE Hall of Famer was given 90 days notice that the company was canceling the contract with one year remaining on it.
source: wrestling observer
WWE Hall of Famer in Serious Condition
Former Chicago Bears defensive lineman William "The Refrigerator" Perry was in serious condition at a South Carolina hospital, a spokeswoman said on Tuesday.
Perry was involved in WrestleMania 2 and is a member of the WWE Hall of Fame.
Perry, 46, was hospitalized to deal with complications from Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a chronic inflammation disorder of the peripheral nerves, the Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Tribune reported...More?
April 21, 2009
ECW Results: Tabled
The official contract signing for the ECW Championship Match at Backlash turned into a brawl in Great Britain on this week’s ECW on Sci Fi. After Christian and ECW Champion Jack Swagger inked their contract for this Sunday’s match, The All-American American Gutwrench Powerbombed Captain Charisma, sending a strong statement just days before Backlash. But the Extreme action didn’t end there – ECW kicked off with an unexpected battle between a Diva and a leprechaun! Full results.
source: wwe.com
Shad Gaspard Rips Internet Sites For False Rumors
In quite a heated Myspace Q&A Cryme Tyme’s Shad Gaspard ripped several wrestling news sites and a reporter by name...More?
source: wrestlingtruth.com
"The Wrestler" Out on DVD and Blu-Ray with Extras
The Academy Award nominated film The Wrestler is officially out on DVD today. Here are the DVD extras for the film:
* "Making of" Documentary
* The Wrestler music video featuring Bruce Springsteen
* Wrestler Round Table featuring Lex Luger, Rowdy Roddy Roddy Piper, Diamond Dallas Page, Brutus Beefcake and Greg Valentine in a discussion following the Hollywood premiere (only available on the Blu-Ray version)
Bobby Lasley Explains Why He Signed With TNA
“With the WWE, I was on the road nonstop; it was my entire life. With TNA, I’m only working four days a month. And with the extra income from wrestling, I can take care of my family and afford to fully dedicate myself to my MMA training. I’m no different than so many young fighters: I still need a day job, because MMA training is expensive – especially when you want to travel to different camps and learn from the top minds in the game. And TNA has been great to work with.”...More?
source: mmaxfc.com
Ric Flair on Triple H, Nigel McGuinness, Steve Austin and Others
On Triple H:
"He's wonderful," Flair said. "He's one of the top three guys in the company. He's a phenomenal performer. He's a great human being and a wonderful guy."
"He has an unbelievable work ethic. He reminds me of me. On the road and on house shows, He never...not ever...takes a shortcut. He's very smart."
On who he was impressed by at the ROH tapings.
"Nigel," Flair said, referring to former ROH champion Nigel McGuinness. "I hadn't seen him before. He's a great speaker and he has a lot of skill. I was impressed with a lot of the workers there. Nigel works hard in the ring and is a really phenomenal speaker
On Stone Cold Steve Austin:
"At the Hall of Fame, I said that the biggest star in the history of pro wrestling was Steve Austin. I wasn't just blowing smoke. It wasn't Hulk in the 80s. Steve clearly set a standard, I thought."
Click here for more.
source: pojoslam.blogspot.com
WWE sells outs in Dublin back-to-back nights
As reported on TheSun.co.uk April 17, WWE Superstars made their return to Dublin as part of the WrestleMania Revenge Tour and sold out the new O2 Arena for two nights in a row. Each night, 11,000 members of the WWE Universe filled the seats to watch their favorite WWE Superstars in action live. To read more about WWE’s back-to-back sell-out nights, click here.
source: wwe.com
Rumor Mill - WWE Struggling to Re-Sign Jeff Hardy to a new contract
Jeff Hardy's WWE contract expires within the next two-to-four months and the company has yet to re-sign him to a new deal, according to Mike Johnson of PWInsider.com. The company has offered him a one-year deal in hopes of keeping him under contract while they negotiate a longer deal, but Hardy has yet to sign.
Other rumors floating around is that Hardy has handed in his resignation and wants to explore other options.
God Save The King (of Kings)
In a WrestleMania rematch, WWE Champion Triple H had a chance to take out all his frustrations prior to Backlash as he competed in a No Disqualification Match against Randy Orton. Both Superstars set out to use every tool and weapon at their disposal and eventually the match turned in The Game’s favor as he repeatedly worked on his opponent’s knee. As he prepared to deliver the coup de grace to Orton’s wounded limb, he was distracted by The Legacy, with Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase rushing to the ring and attacking The King of Kings. The match turned into a massive brawl as Batista & Shane McMahon also entered the fray, but “The Viper,” Orton thrived on the chaos and Triple H’s allies’ lack of cohesion, picking his moment to level The Game with a victory-sealing RKO. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Poll Results - How Would You Grade the First WWE Superstars Show?
A - 1 vote (20%)
B - 2 votes (40%)
C - 1 vote (20%)
D - 0 votes (0%)
Didn't Watch It - 1 vote (20%)
This Day in Wrestling History
Ken Patera defeated Pat Patterson for the WWWF(WWE) Intercontinental title.
April 21, 1980
Hulk Hogan defeated Triple H for the WWF(E) Unified Heavyweight title.
April 21, 2002
Happy Birthday to Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake
April 21, 1958
Ted Grizzly dead at 65
Ted Grizzly, who died today in a Hamilton hospital, carved a name out for himself while on the losing end of countless WWF matches in the 1980s, mostly taped in Brantford, Ontario. Yet his life was a colourful, and controversial, as any main eventer.
Portraying a country bumpkin with his ratty overalls, unkempt beard and less-than-stellar physique, Grizzly was a competent worker who battled the likes of Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant and Paul Orndorff over the years. His sheer size -- a balloon-like 320 pounds or so -- made him believable cannon fodder for the WWF giants...More?
source: slam wrestling
April 20, 2009
ESPN Slams Bobby Lashley's Re-Entry to Pro Wrestling
ESPN has published an article by Sherdog.com writer Jake Rossen in which he slams Bobby Lashley for his decision to sign with TNA Wrestling while still being an active MMA fighter. After calling "professional wrestling" slang for "embarrassment to the human race," Rossen said, "Lashley can obviously do as he pleases to earn a buck, but I don't think his hybrid career will do the sport of MMA in the States any favors." Click here for the entire article.
TV Ratings of the Debut Edition of
WWE Superstars
The debut edition of WWE Superstars on WGN America did an 0.9 cable rating last Thursday night. The replay at 11PM EST did an 0.32 cable rating. Superstars was the highest rated show on WGN that day, beating an 11AM airing of In The Heat of The Night which did an 0.67.
Larry Sweeney Quits Ring of Honor
Larry Sweeney announced that he officially quit Ring of Honor Monday on his Facebook account.
"Alex Whybrow (Larry Sweeney's real name) quit Ring of Honor this morning. For real. I don't need to take this sh** anymore and will be appearing back again for ian rotten starting veeeeeery soon. F** it, I love it," his message read.
Sweeney had been estranged from the company since WrestleMania weekend when ROH officials escorted him out of the company's pay per view taping. ROH officials had previously stated that they did not expect to see Sweeney back with the company until he had cleared up his personal issues.
This Day in Wrestling History
Triple H defeated Taz in the first match between a WWF(E) heavyweight Champion and an ECW Heavyweight Champion
April 20, 2000
This Day in Wrestling History - Rick Rude Passes Away
Rick Rude of dies of a heart attack at age 40.
April 20, 1999
Richard Erwin Rood
December 7, 1958 – April 20, 1999
April 19, 2009
Bobby Lashley Debuts at TNA's Lockdown
After the Lethal Lockdown match with Kurt Angle, Scott Steiner, Kevin Nash and Booker T vs. Jeff Jarrett, Samoa Joe, Christopher Daniels and AJ Styles, the lights went out and a motorcycle was heard revving up. Out comes former WWE star Bobby Lashley to a huge pop! Lashley raises his hands in the air and acknowledges a smiling Kurt Angle. The Main Event Mafia won the match.
SmackDown/ECW House Show Results - Vienna, Austria
Triple H came in to the second loudest pop of the night, followed by Taker whose pop was even louder (everybody loves Taker). Legacy came in second, which was kind of strange, since as over as HHH/Taker were, you would have thought they would have wanted those pops last. The entrances alone took about ten minutes. Anyway, Legacy stalled getting into the ring and when they did, Hunter immediately speared Orton and ran after him to the back. He returned shortly after and it was a regular tag-match for a while...More?
source: darkguy.pycoos.com
Raw Preview: 'Mania Rematch
Last Monday, Raw Draftee and WWE Champion Triple H led Batista & Shane McMahon to victory over Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase to earn the right to face Randy Orton in a No Disqualification Match on Raw, mere weeks before they meet at Backlash with the WWE Title on the line.
Chuck Liddell Retiring?
Dana White comments on Chuck Liddell's loss at UFC 97 and possible retirement:
"He's a huge superstar, and we could still sell lots of tickets (with Liddell). But I don't care about that. I care about him. I care about his health, and it's over, man. It's over. How we built this company – using boxing as the blueprint – (and we) don't let guys hang around longer than they should, I was pushing for retirement. He's my friend, I love him, and I care about him. We sat down (prior to UFC 97). We had a two-hour talk. He wanted to do this (fight). I said, 'If you take this seriously – if I hear you're in one [expletive] nightclub, if you're not training, if you're not doing this, doing that – it's over. That's it. He said, 'No, I'm taking this seriously.' And he did. He kept his word. He was in great shape. He came out guns slinging like he does, but that was it. If that (fight) was a toe-to-toe war and he got flashed (knocked down) a couple times and it went to decision, he'd still be retiring too. He'd still be retiring."
From Jim Ross:
"It was tough watching Chuck Liddell get TKO'ed in the first round Saturday night in Montreal on the UFC PPV. I have huge respect for Liddell who was one of the primary individuals who motivated me to want to watch MMA from the early days. Chuck is a true warrior and I hope that he doesn't put himself back in the octagon for "one more fight" so he can end his career "the right way." Chuck's legacy is in tact and fighting again and either losing again or not fighting like the old, Chuck Liddell won't do Chuck any favors. My hats off to Chuck Liddell and I thank him for helping make me a huge UFC/MMA fan."
Liddell also spoke on the possibility of retirement, saying:
"Yeah, that's probably the case, I'm not going to make any decisions until I go home to talk to everybody, talk to my people and my friends. But it's probably safe to say I'm retired."
SmackDown/ECW House Show Results - Salzburg, Austria
Main Event: HHH & Undertaker vs Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase and Orton
Very slow match. Hunter and Taker got many, loud pops...More?
April 18, 2009
"The Creation of Adam” - WWE Style
The Undertaker reaching out for The Game's tag.
Photos from Cologne, Germany
Photos form Strasbourg, France
Photo of The Creation of Adam by Michaelangelo
SmackDown/ECW House Show Results - Strasbourg, France
Main Event: HHH & Undertaker vs Rhodes, DiBiase and Orton
Huge huge pops for HHH and Taker. Orton, as a great coward, escapes from the match for several minutes. He came back to viciously attack his opponents. Nice stuff. Crazy crowd, Undertaker hits a double chokeslam on DiBiase and Rhodes. Orton hides and then its a vicious RKO on Undertaker. Later, he tries to escape again but HHH follows him and then the faces hits a combo Pedigree/Tombstone for the victory. Great and long match...More?
source: impactwrestling.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to "The Brooklyn Brawler" Steve Lombardi.
April 18, 1961
Wahoo McDaniel passes away due to a stroke at the age of 63.
April 18, 2002
April 17, 2009
SmackDown Results: Raging to Backlash
Batista dropped Legacy member Ted DiBiase with a hard-hitting spear, followed by a thunderous Batista Bomb for the win on SmackDown. They will meet again on the battle grounds at Backlash in a Six-Man Tag Team Match. Full results.
Women Watching the WWE
According to Michelle Wilson, WWE's Executive Vice President of Marketing, 40% of the WWE audience is women. F4Wonline.com is reporting that depending on which show it is and the week, the female audience usually ranges from 29% to 34%. When dealing with live event business, women are closer to 20-25% of the audience.
Maxim Interview with Bret Hart
Pink-wearing, ex-WWE wrestling champ Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart discusses forehead licking and elbows off the top turnbuckle…
You used to wrestle in a pink leotard. Please explain…
Originally I was a bad guy, and it made the crowds hate me even more. Then people accepted it as part of my ‘cool’ image. It wasn’t like I was tied into any gay thing. Still, looking back, maybe I should’ve switched to blue or something...
Did the less skilled wrestlers ever seriously injure others?
Yeah, Bill Goldberg did right at the end of my career. He kicked me in the head the way somebody might kick a crash test dummy. You’re talking big, powerful men here, a lot of them on steroids. And when these guys don’t have the skills or the understanding of the limitations of the human body, you get cases like mine. Bill’s a sweetheart, but he got pushed to the top too quick...More?
Taz Issues Statment about Leaving the WWE
Taz (He hates the second "Z") issued a statment on his Facebook account about leaving the WWE:
"I want to clear up some "true & false" for all of you," Taz wrote on his Facebook page:
"True
My contract expired the end of March and I had given my notice several weeks prior.
I ask WWE for my release to pursue other interest.
I offered to call Wrestlemania while I was not contractually obligated....and offered to call the show for free to the company.
I have fulfilled EVERY obligation to the WWE, and pride myself on leaving the proper/professional way.
On my way out, from Vince McMahon, Kevin Dunn and Stephanie ALL treated me great...which was cool.
I APPRECIATE all of the offers for appearances but right now I'm just doing very few appearances (if any). I'm gonna chill out and watch my kid hit baseballs.
I am done wrestling. At 41 years old, several neck and shoulder issues...not happening. I would be a former shell of myself.
I too have hated the extra "Z"
FALSE
Burnout (If anything, I'm more inspired & motivated now than ever)"
Click here to read the full statement.
The Four Superstars that Keep the WWE a Great Experience
Jack Swagger
Shelton Benjamin
John Morrison
Maryse
Click here for the full article at Bleacher Report.
Rumor Mill - The Undertaker Retiring
in 2010?
WWE ring announcer Tony Chimel made an announcement at the 04/16 Dublin, Ireland show that The Undertaker's retirement tour would be taking place next year in April when the company returns overseas for the next big tour.
SmackDown/ECW is Coming to
Roanoke, VA
WWE presents SmackDown/ECW
Date: June 16, 2009
Time: 6:45 p.m.
Venue: The Roanoke Civic Center
City/State: Roanoke, Va.
On-Sale Date: Saturday, April 18th at 10:00am
Ticket Information: Get your tickets at the box office and www.tickets.com , Starting at $15
Charge by Phone: 888-397-3100
Prices: $60, $40, $30, $20 and $15
This Day in Wrestling History
Adrian Adonis & Dick Murdoch defeated Tony Atlas & Rocky Johnson for the WWWF(WWE) Tag Team title
April 17, 1984
WCW filed suit in Fulton County Superior Court against Ric Flair for breech of contract
April 17, 1998
Happy Birthday to Rowdy Roddy Piper (Roderick George Toombs)
April 17, 1951
April 16, 2009
Poll Results - Are You Going to Watch the New WWE Show, WWE Superstars?
Yes - 8 votes (80%)
No - 0 votes (0%)
Maybe - 0 votes (0%)
I don't have WGN - 2 votes (20%)
WWE Superstars Results: Pulse-Pounding Premiere
The debut episode of WWE Superstars made history by playing host to three massive matches, showcasing ring warriors from SmackDown, Raw and ECW. Not only did the night feature the first ever match between Undertaker and Matt Hardy, but Christian also became the No. 1 contender to Jack Swagger’s ECW Title by winning the Elimination