Thanks to Donald Trump’s blockbuster 15-Superstar trade and ECW’s New Superstar Initiative, the Land of the Extreme is a changed place. The New Era of ECW is full of new faces and plenty of hungry ECW Superstars ready to make an Extreme impact on Tuesday nights.
Irish eyes were smiling widely upon Sheamus during his ECW debut. Sheamus – who arrived in ECW as part of the New Superstar Initiative – earned his first Extreme victory over a local competitor Tuesday night. Sheamus comes from Ireland and a long line of tough, Irish Superstars – such as Finlay, who moved to SmackDown in Trump’s trade. It’s clear this new ECW Superstar is poised to make an impact in the Land of the Extreme. Full results.
source: wwe.com
June 30, 2009
ECW Results: Extreme Changes
USA Delivers Best 2Q Ever on Cable, with Help From WWE
USA Network scored the best Second Quarter cable TV ratings ever, according to a press release the company issued. USA averaged 3.17 million viewers in prime time TV during the quarter (April - June) and 1.47 million viewers aged 25-54.
USA claimed it was the first time any cable channel averaged over 3.0 million total viewers in a Second Quarter. In the press release, USA mainly credited other series beside WWE Raw for the ratings victory.
USA was locked in a tight race with TNT for the second quarter ratings battle after TNT's five-week coverage of the NBA Playoffs. USA won among adults 18-49 by a slim 3.4 percent difference.
WWE executive Donna Goldsmith said earlier this month that USA called up WWE to help put them over the top against TNT. USA pointed out in their press release that WWE's Raw ratings in June were a major factor in the Second Quarter victory.
source: pwtorch.com
Results of the Mini-Draft
Donald Trump approved a 15 Superstar trade among the three brands before he was fired last week. The trades are as follows.
Raw: Gail Kim, Alicia Fox, Jack Swagger, Evan Bourne and Mark Henry.
Smackdown: Matt Hardy, Finlay, David Hart Smith, Tyson Kidd and Natalya.
ECW: Shelton Benjamin, Goldust, William Regal and The Bella Twins.
This Day in Wrestling History
Gail Kim wins the WWE Women's Title in a Battle Royal upon her debut in WWE. She would later be released from the company a year later in November of 2004.
June 30, 2003
June 29, 2009
Raw Results: The Animal's Kingdom
One week after purchasing Monday Night Raw back from Donald Trump, Mr. McMahon had two shocking announcements for the WWE Universe. First, the WWE Chairman announced that he would be shaking things up by way of a 15-Superstar trade originally set into motion by former Raw owner Donald Trump, that would see five new ring warriors brought to the Raw roster. Even more shocking, McMahon revealed that the show would henceforth have a series of “special guest hosts,” starting that very night with The Animal, Batista. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Q&A with Andrew Whitaker - WWE President International
From an interview with Indiantelevision.com:
How do you view competition like TNA which airs on another sports channel?
All forms of entertainment are competition for WWE as we compete for the public's attention and entertainment dollar. For any sports or entertainment company, whether you are Manchester United, U2 or WWE, the biggest concern is the enormous proliferation of content in the market.
However, WWE is a significant force within entertainment and pop culture. Within our specific entertainment genre, we clearly are the industry leader. While TNA is pro-wrestling, WWE is entertainment.
In terms of getting in fans at on ground events and driving pay-per-view buys, who are your top three performers at the moment?
The great thing about WWE Superstars and Divas is that they each hold a different appeal for different fans. While one fan will follow Rey Mysterio or John Cena, another will be a Jeff Hardy supporter. WWE offers something for everyone and that diversity comes to life at live events just by observing the amount of different WWE Superstar signs that are being held and merchandise worn by the fans...More?
New Pro Wrestling Documentary - 'Hard Knocks'
Hard Knocks is a 40 minute documentary on Professional Wrestling featuring stars from the WWE, TNA and the international independent circuit. Production began in October 2008 in the United Kingdom, with photography taking place in London, Manchester, Portsmouth and across the Southwest. Post-production was completed on 1st June 2009. The film is due to be screened at numerous prestigious film festivals in the UK, The USA, Canada and Europe, commencing September 2009. All festival dates are to be announced over the coming months via the official Hard Knocks website:
June 28, 2009
The Bash Results
Dark Match
R-Truth defeated Shelton Benjamin
ECW Championship Scramble Match
Winner: Tommy Dreamer
Intercontinental Championship vs. Mask: Chris Jericho vs. Rey Mysterio
Winner: Rey Mysterio - New Intercontinental Champion
The Great Khali vs. Dolph Ziggler
Winner: Dolph Ziggler with help from a returning Kane
Unified Tag Team Champions Carlito & Primo vs. Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase
Teddy Long adds the tag team of Edge and Chris Jericho to the match.
Winners: Edge & Chris Jericho - New Unified Tag Team Champions
Women's Champion Melina vs. Michelle McCool
Winner: Michelle McCool - New Women's Champion
World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk vs. Jeff Hardy
Winner: Jeff Hardy by DQ; CM Punk retains the title
John Cena vs. The Miz
Winner: John Cena
WWE Champion Randy Orton vs. Triple H (Three Stages of Hell)
First Fall: Orton by DQ
Second Fall: Triple H
Third Fall: Orton
Winner: Randy Orton(c)
Lilian Quits WWE
From her official website:
"I hope all of you are doing well! I am writing to address the situation in which WWE is looking for a Female Ring Announcer/Singer. The truth of the matter is that they are looking for someone new because I have given them my notice that I will be leaving at the end of my contract this year. It is with a heavy heart that I have made this decision because WWE has been my family from day one and you, the WWE Universe have always been incredible to me. The fact is that I am getting married later this year and have decided to enter into a new phase of my life but I will truly miss all of you and the WWE tremendously."
This Day in Wrestling History
Chief Jay & Jules Strongbow defeated Mr. Fuji & Mr. Saito for the WWWF(WWE) Tag Team title.
June 28, 1982
Steve Austin defeated the Undertaker for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title.
June 28, 1999
June 27, 2009
Kaliqo's Predictions, Picks & Speculations for The Bash
World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk vs. Jeff Hardy
Since it appears that CM Punk is making a heel turn, I would think he is going to win this match with a lot of physicality from Jeff.
WWE Champion Randy Orton vs. Triple H
This storyline has gotten a little stale. I would like to see some sort of swerve during the match, but not the predictable Legacy run-in.
ECW Championship Scramble Match
Jack Swagger or Christian or we riot.
Women's Champion Melina vs. Michelle McCool (Women's Championship Match)
I would like to see Michelle win the title and then enter a program with Beth Phoenix.
Intercontinental Championship vs. Mask: Chris Jericho vs. Rey Mysterio
Great storyline here but I'm torn. I want Rey to keep his mask because it adds to his mystique, but I want Jericho to win the match. *sigh*
The Great Khali vs. Dolph Ziggler
If Triple H can't make Khali look good, than no one can. Good time for a bathroom break and snack run.
John Cena vs. The Miz
Lots of potential for a descent match. The Miz has improved a lot.
Unified Tag Team Champions Carlito & Primo vs. Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase
Dear God let's hope Legacy wins and the Colons return to Puerto Rico.
TNA's Beer Money, Inc: Order Me Another Round
It's now only natural after someone shouts the word "Beer" you respond with "Money." Total Nonstop Action (TNA), known for it's aging main-event talent pool and overbooked finishes, has done some good. They have given us one of the better tag teams in recent memory in Beer Money, Inc.
So just who are the fellows who are every bartender's favorite patrons? Click here.
source: bleacherreport.com
This Day in Wrestling History
A federal court ruling allows the WWF(E) to move its programming from USA Networks to CBS/Viacom on TNN (now Spike TV).
June 27, 2000
June 26, 2009
SmackDown Results: Rage Before The Bash
With World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk as guest referee, Edge & Chris Jericho went to war with Jeff Hardy & Rey Mysterio in a "Rage in the Cage" Match. In the end, it was “Team Ego” who prevailed when The Rated-R Superstar avoided a Twist of Fate from Hardy and stunned the high-flyer with a hard-hitting spear.
After the match was over, CM Punk, perhaps being sarcastic, offered up his praises for Hardy, saying he fought a good fight despite losing the match. On Sunday, the two will clash for Punk’s World Heavyweight Championship at The Bash. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Bobby Kay Still on Maritime Minds
Bobby Kay, one of the famed Cormier brothers of New Brunswick, finds it hard to believe that his wrestling career, which began more than 40 years ago, is still remembered. "I've been out of wrestling for 20, 21 years now. I'm just surprised that people are still talking about it. It's amazing, I met some people the other day, when they found out who I was, they just went crazy."...More?
source: slam wrestling
Three Stages of Hell History
This Sunday, Randy Orton will defend his WWE Title against Triple H under stipulations the WWE Universe hasn't seen in seven years: A Three Stages of Hell Match. The odds will be stacked against The Viper as this is his first Three Stages of Hell contest, while his opponent, The Game, has not only competed in both of the match type's prior outings, but also walked away the victor. Join WWE.com as we take a look at the history of this devilish competition, and make sure to check out our full preview of Sunday's WWE Championship Match.
This Day in Wrestling History
"The Original Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers dies of a stroke at age 71.
June 26, 1992
Mick Foley is named the new WWF(E) Commissioner by Linda McMahon.
June 26, 2000
June 25, 2009
WWE Superstars Results: Threat Level is High
Since defeating Montel Vontavious Porter for the United States Championship, Kofi Kingston’s in-ring performance has been nothing short of outstanding and tonight was no different. Pitted against two former champions who were eager to regain the United States Championship, the explosive Kingston overcame the odds and held onto his gold in an exciting main event. The Jamaican Superstar may owe some of his victory to the fact that Matt Hardy and MVP could not get past their torrid history and spent as much time battling each other as they did Kingston. While Hardy and The Ballin’ Superstar waged a war of their own, Kingston took the opportunity to capitalize and score the victory. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Tokyo Sports Reports New NOAH President
According to the "Tokyo Sports" newspaper, All Japan legend and Pro Wrestling NOAH talent AKIRA TAUE will be named the new President of Pro Wrestling NOAH at a Press Conference on July 5th...More?
Lucha Libre Game Coming to America
If your thirst for over-the-top brawling wasn't quite quenched by UFC 2009: Undisputed, perhaps you should turn your attention to a fighting style with a bit more Latin flavor -- we speak, of course, of the divine art of Lucha libre, featured in the new project from young publisher Slang, titled AAA: El Videojuego...More?
source: joystiq.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Antonio Inoki and Mohammad Ali fought to a 15 round draw.
June 25, 1976
The Rock defeated Triple H by pinning Vince McMahon in a 6-man match for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title.
June 25, 2000
Chris Benoit, his wife Nancy and son are found dead in their home in Atlanta. The tragedy was later determined a double-murder suicide after WWE ran a two-hour tribute show to Benoit. WWE would later apologize the following night on ECW.
June 25, 2007
June 24, 2009
JR and Lawler at Dragon Gate USA
Highspots will be bringing WWE Hall of Famers Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler to sign autographs and meet fans before the Dragon Gate USA show on September 6th in Chicago at the Congress Theater. Former WWE Diva Dawn Marie will also be signing autographs. Tickets for Ross and Lawler can be purchased through Highspots.com.
Women's Roller Derby Dishes Out Fun, Friendship and Fitness
Amber Mori drives a forklift in a warehouse in Gaithersburg, Maryland. As a working mom, she's on the go 24/7. But twice a week, Amber transforms into "Cykosis," a fishnet-wearing, skatin' diva, who bumps and jabs her way around a roller rink.
Because bashing, bruising and bumping are all part of the game, players also learn how to fall to reduce injury. Amber has been skating for more than a year as a member of the "Mason Dixon Roller Vixens" roller derby team. What started out as a lark has now become a passion for her. "I love it; it's a great way to get out, be invigorated -- and the companionship is wonderful," she says. "And I've got legs as strong as pythons."
Women's roller derby started as a professional sport in the 1920s, when teams criss-crossed the country, jabbing and jostling and duking it out for money and, eventually, the national championship. By the 1970s, roller derby teams (and their fans) started to wane.
But with the resurgence of the extreme sports craze, women's flat track roller derby has made a comeback. Tired of pilates and Jazzercise, a lot of women started looking for more exciting outlets to stay in shape; the campy novelty of the sport piqued interest. Now, nonprofessional groups such as the Vixens are popping up all over the country...More?
source: cnn.com
Bourne to Read in WWE
With parents as schoolteachers, World Wrestling Entertainment star Evan Bourne took education very seriously.
A college graduate, the high-flying Bourne is no airhead as he is helping spearhead the WWE SummerSlam Reading Jam promotion, encouraging reading among today's youth...More?
source: miamiherald.com
Ric Flair Not 'Exclusive' to WWE
The Sun was among a number of outlets that received an email from The Gillespie Agency saying the Nature Boy was very much still available for independent bookings despite recent appearances on Raw.
The statement said: "Will you help us get the word out on Ric Flair's availability for appearances?
"Seems like a lot of people think he is working exclusively for WWE now... but that's just not the case...More?
Triple H's Three Stages of Hell Record
Triple H has a pretty good history in the three stages of hell match.
WWF(E) No Way Out 2001 Three Stages of Hell Match Triple H defeated Steve Austin at 39:27
1st fall: Wrestling Match
2nd fall: Street Fight
3rd fall: Cage match
WWE Armageddon 2002 Three Stages of Hell match for the World Heavyweight Championship Triple H defeated Shawn Michaels at 35:25
1st fall: Street Fight
2nd fall: Cage Match
3rd fall: Ladder Match.
source: wrestlingnewsworld.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Wahoo McDaniel defeated Ricky Steamboat for the NWA U.S. Heavyweight title.
June 24, 1984
TBS aired the final episode of WCW Saturday Night after 27 consecutive years.
June 24, 2000
Bret Hart suffers a bicycle accident and a crippling stroke.
June 24, 2002
June 23, 2009
ECW Results: World's Strongest Clash Before The Bash
Four of the five Superstars competing in the ECW Championship Scramble at The Bash this Sunday squared off in tag team action on Tuesday night. Christian came close to a victory after hitting the Killswitch on Jack Swagger, but WWE Hall of Famer Tony Atlas interfered, continuing the match. ECW Champion Tommy Dreamer then assaulted Atlas outside of the ring, prompting Mark Henry to attack Christian, shoving him into the ring post. Henry then tossed Christian back into the ring, allowing Swagger to hit the Gutwrench Powerbomb on the ailing Captain Charisma for the win.
When Dreamer went to check on his tag team partner after the match, Henry attacked the ECW Champion with a World’s Strongest Slam. Then as Swagger stared down at Dreamer and Christian, his own tag team partner also picked him up and hit him with a World’s Strongest Slam, too. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Matt Hardy Injured
The Wrestling Observer is reporting that Matt Hardy suffered a torn abdominal muscle while taping the main event match for WWE Superstars. The bout will be a triple threat match for The US Title featuring Kofi Kingston vs Matt Hardy vs MVP. It's being reported that Hardy is scheduled for surgery later this week, and there is no word at this point concerning how much time he may be out of action.
Raw Does Huge Rating; Trump vs. McMahon Not Over?
The rating is in for last night's WWE Raw and it appears Donald Trump's one and only show as the owner of Raw was a blockbuster success.
The June 22nd edition of WWE Raw drew a 4.5 rating, way up from last week's "Three-For-All" show, which did a 3.7 (and a 3.9 for the final 2 hours). The first hour did 4.2 rating with 6.3 million viewers, while the second hour shot up to a 4.8 rating with 7.3 million viewers. The last time RAW did a 4.5 rating for a 2-hour show was back in January 2006.
The WWE issued a press release this afternoon stating that while Trump is no longer the owner of Raw, his feud with Vince McMahon is probably not over, probably due tot he high ratings.
Q&A with John Morrison
ESPN: When was the first moment you realized that the John Morrison character was finally getting over?
John Morrison: There's a promo I cut around the time of the number one contender's match that involved Miz, CM Punk, Big Daddy V, and Boogeyman, and I cut around a ten minute promo in the ring on all of them, and it was one of those things where I was really feeling it. I was feeling the character, I was feeling my personality, and it was one of the first times where I felt how they really interwove. That's when it really felt easy for me and the crowd really responded.
ESPN: Where do you get the inspiration for some of your moves? It's like Electric Boogaloo meets Enter the Dragon out there sometimes.
John Morrison: I watch other wrestlers, I watch movies with Jackie Chan and Jet Li and Tony Jaa, then there's breakdancing and Capoeira. Just anything I see that looks awesome that I think I could adapt in the ring. Just your typical Kung Fu, breakdancing, Capoeira moves. [laughs]...More?
source: sports.espn.go.com
Billy Red Lyons Passes Away
Venerable Canadian wrestling personality Billy Red Lyons passed away June 22 at the age of 77.
Born William Snip, the Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, native enjoyed a fair measure of success throughout his in-ring career. Debuting in 1956, Lyons’ career covered such locales as Ontario, California, Minneapolis, Texas, Georgia, and Oklahoma. In 1984, Lyons retired as an active wrestler, and began to work for Toronto’s Maple Leaf Wrestling. Many Canadian fans will remember Lyons as the interviewer for promoting WWE live events throughout Canada from the mid-1980s through early 1990s, with the phrase “don’tcha dare miss it” becoming a signature ending to his promos.
source: wwe.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Bronko Nagurski defeated Lou thesz for the NWA Heavyweight Wrestling title.
June 23, 1939
Ted DiBiase defeated Junkyard Dog for the Mid-South North American Heavyweight title.
June 23, 1982
Stone Cold Steve Austin wins the King of The Ring tournament. The win marks the beginning of Austin's push.
June 23, 1996
Molly Holly defeated Trish Stratus for the WWE Women's title.
June 23, 2002
June 22, 2009
Taz Promo on TNA Facebook Page
TNA has posted footage on their Facebook page that is clearly a promotional video for Taz joining the company. The video features a "13" graphic, and "FTW," which was one of his slogans in ECW. You can watch the video by visiting the TNA Facebook Page.
source: prowrestling.net
Raw Results: Trump Fired; Triple H vs. Orton Ends in Draw
Rankled by Donald Trump's excessive generosity to the WWE Universe (and what may have been an ulterior motive), Mr. McMahon bought Raw back from "The Donald" for twice the selling price, and proceeded to fire his fellow billionaire.
WWE Champion Randy Orton and Triple H's Last Man Standing Match ended in a draw, with both ring warriors unable to answer the count of 10 mere days before they face at The Bash with the WWE Title hanging in the balance. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Pandas and Triple H
Actress and reality TV star Shanna Moakler noted on her Twitter page that some guys at her gym confused a World Wide Fund for Nature t-shirt with a WWF wrestling t-shirt and tried hitting on her. World Wide Fund for Nature is the new name for the World Wildlife Fund company that caused WWE's name to be changed years back. She wrote:
I'm wearing a WWF shirt in gym and a guy trys 2 pick me up tells me he loves wrestling to! Its a panda! Not Triple H! Lol!
source: impactwrestling.com
I'm just glad she knows who Triple H is!
Trump's Big Raw Press Conference Announcement
WWE.com has confirmed that Donald Trump announced during a live press conference today in Green Bay that he is going to give everyone who bought a ticket to Raw tonight a full refund of their money making tonight's show completely free to both live audience members and viewers at home.
Interview with John Cena
Lou Ramirez of KJ97 has a new interview with John Cena. They talk about the Blood Brother's script, finishing a match hurt, the CNN hose-job, HBK, Outlaw Country Music and the fact that he is NOT on Myspace, Facebook or Twitter. Click here to listen.
RAW Excitement Grips Dubuque Family
Donna Gatena went to her first professional wrestling match when she was 12.
Her grandmother, who "was a freak about wrestling," first introduced her to the sport. Back then, she wasn't so into it. Now she has a son and a husband who are both fans, and she has grown to love it.
WWE Raw Live held a pro-wrestling performance Sunday at the Five Flags Center, and the die-hard fans were there hours before the event in the hopes of seeing the wrestlers arrive, and perhaps get an autograph.
Gatena was there for her second live show with her husband, Tony, and their son Brian, who is 13. She said she enjoys watching WWE every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday with her family and her son's friends.
She said that even 21-month-old Brandon, who they are taking care of, likes to watch the wrestlers on their big screen, and can imitate some of professional wrestler John Cena's moves.
"It's exciting. You pick a favorite person and you follow them," she said....More?
source: thonline.com
Trump/McMahon Press Conference
WWE sent out the following press release to fans in Wisconsin who are on their mailing list:
Dear WWE Universe:
The new owner of RAW, Donald Trump, has some exciting news for the WWE Universe in Green Bay. Trump, along with WWE Divas, will be holding a special news conference as soon as his plane touches down at Green Bay Airport on Monday, June 22 at 4 PM. All WWE Fans are invited to the Executive Air Terminal to attend this free event. In addition, Mr. Trump has extended an invitation to former WWE RAW owner Mr. McMahon to also attend the conference. Join Mr. Trump, Mr. McMahon and the WWE Divas, as a special announcement will be made regarding that evening's Monday Night RAW event at the Resch Center that will put the "green back" in Green Bay.
What: Special News Conference with New Owner of RAW, Donald Trump, WWE Divas and Former Owner of RAW, Mr. McMahon.
When: Monday, June 22, 2009 at 4 PM
Where: Executive Air Terminal2131 Airport DriveGreen Bay, WI
June 21, 2009
This Day in Wrestling History - The Debut of 'Tough Enough'
The first episode of WWF(E) Tough Enough airs on MTV. The reality show/competition results in Maven and Nidia winning contracts after beating out 11 other participants.
June 21, 2001
Wrestler's Family Receiving Death Threats after Misawa's Fatal Accident
The family of the wrestler who gave Japanese wrestling legend Mitsuharu Misawa the ill-fated suplex that cost him his life has been receiving death threats according to WWE Hall of Fame announcer Jim Ross.
The wrestler himself has been on "suicide watch" since Misawa's passing as well.
Misawa"Sources out of Japan tell me that the wrestler who was wrestling Misawa when the Japanese legend was accidentally killed in the ring has been essentially under a suicide watch not to mention that the parents of the wrestler have received many death threats," Ross wrote in his latest blog...More?
source: pwnewsnow.com
Philly Roller Girls to Host 2009 WFTDA Nationals Tournament
The Philly Roller Girls are excited to host the 2009 WFTDA Nationals Tournament — Declaration of Derby — November 13-15, 2009. A major transportation hub, the Philadelphia metropolitan area is rich in revolutionary history and cultural excitement, the perfect environment for this tournament pitting the top teams from each of the four North American regions in a battle for flat track roller derby supremacy!
The Philly Roller Girls look forward to sharing the historic culture of the “City of Sisterly Shove” with our roller derby family from all over the world.
June 20, 2009
With Times Tough, Pro Wrestlers Think Small
Local promoters, performers offer low-budget alternative...More?
source: boston.com
Jerry Lynn vs. Sean Waltman
Fan account of the Jerry Lynn vs. Sean "X-Pac" Waltman match:
Sean "X-Pac" Waltman pinned Jerry Lynn. The crowd simply lost it for both these men. Split almost right down the middle in support. Regretfully, this is the first time I've seen these two lock up in person. I first saw them on TV around 1990 in the old GWF in Texas. X-Pac hit the Broncobuster on Lynn in the corner but later Lynn hit an elbowsmash to Pac on a table that saw the crown come unglued.
Lynn nailed the Cradle Piledriver but Pac got his leg on the bottom rope at the last second. Pac hit the X-Factor but Lynn kicked out.Lynn hit a top rope huracanrana but Pac rolled through and pinned Lynn with a jackknife cradle. The locker room emptied to give both a lengthy ovation as Waltman talked of coming home and of his 17-year old son's birthday. Lynn talked of how he and Waltman beat each other up for over years on the Minnesota circuit, trying to get noticed. Waltman got visibly teary-eyed as he and Lynn hugged to send the rabid crowd home happy.
source: prowrestling.net
WWE and the SEC
What started out as just a TV wrestling stunt could have Vince McMahon and World Wrestling Entertainment in a headlock from federal authorities.
The trouble is that both WWE and Raw's parent network (USA) sent out official press releases announcing Trump's "purchase." And, WWE publicly held shares fell nearly 7% the next day.
The releases were fiction. But, federal investigators prefer to use words like "false reporting." The Securities and Exchange Commission generally frowns on deliberately false media reports that affect the stock market. So far, the SEC opted for a "no comment" on whether it's planning to investigate the incident.
WWE and the USA Network issued a joint press release three days later stating that Raw had not been sold to Trump and it was just a storyline...More?
partial source: tvsquad.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Koko B. Ware
June 20, 1957
Magnificent Muraco defeated Pedro Morales for the WWWF(WWE) Intercontinental title.
June 20, 1981
Rikishi defeated Chris Benoit for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
June 20, 2000
June 19, 2009
SmackDown Results: Rampage in Roanoke
Prior to his match with Chris Jericho, The Charismatic No. 1 Contender was confronted by World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk about their World Championship Match at The Bash. Punk voiced no regrets about cashing in his Money in the Bank opportunity at Extreme Rules, nor with his actions in Monday Night Raw’s Triple Threat Match. An intense Hardy expressed his determination to take his title back at the upcoming pay-per-view.
Hardy’s attention then turned to Jericho. In the culmination of their heated battle, as the nine-time Intercontinental Champion was throwing Hardy back into the ring, Rey Mysterio suddenly emerged from a seat in the crowd. He attacked Jericho, driving the stunned Superstar into the ring post before returning to his seat next to two other identically dressed fans. This surprise onslaught led directly to a Hardy victory when Jericho couldn’t answer the 10-count. After the bell, The Charismatic Enigma put the exclamation point on the win, hitting the disoriented Jericho with the Twist of Fate and Swanton Bomb combination. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Indy Wrestler Christopher "Mighty Briggs" Miller Passes Away
Statement from NWL/HoPWF:
June 5, 2009 - FORMER NWL GRADUATE PASSES AWAY AT 38
The NWL/HOUSE of PAIN was informed of the passing of one of our graduates and we would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Christopher "Mighty Biggs" Miller. Chris was dealing with numerous health issues when he suffered a stroke this past December. Along with holding many NWL and HoPWF titles, Chris starred in the Matthew Barney film Cremaster 3 which was shot on location in Scotland and also appeared in the April 2002 edition of Vogue Magazine standing next to Olympic gold medalist Sasha Cohen.
WWE Releases Sim Snuka & Candice Michelle
Standard lines from wwe.com:
World Wrestling Entertainment has come to terms on the release of Raw Superstar Sim Snuka as of today, June 19, 2009. WWE wishes Sim the best in all future endeavors.
World Wrestling Entertainment has come to terms on the release of SmackDown Superstar Candice Michelle as of today, June 19, 2009. WWE wishes Candice the best in all future endeavors.
John Cena on the Cover of Flex Magazine
John Cena is joined by his brother, Matt, on the cover of the latest issue of Flex. The Raw Superstar and the NPC bodybuilder share their workouts in the August 2009 magazine. Get your copy of the Cenas’ issue on newsstands Monday. For more information on Flex, visit flexonline.com.
source: wwe.com
Angle Opens Up on MMA, Drugs and Deaths
Wrestling has had its problem with drug abuse and deaths over the past two decades. Angle is no different, calling himself a "junkie" for abusing pain medication for two years while with the WWE.
"The bumps take a huge toll on people’s bodies." Angle said that pills were an easy way out. "Guys used to take drugs, both recreational and medical, to ease the pain. And the WWE has done a good thing to open up drug rehab for all current and past stars."...More?
source: slam wrestling
Dr. Doughnut and Mr. Referee
It's a safe bet that John Cone is the only person in the country (possibly the world) who could put on his business card the dual title of doughnut store owner and wrestling referee. For the past 10 years, Cone and his wife have been the proprietors of the North Kansas City Donut King and for the past three years he has also traveled more miles than he can count referring WWE matches.
It's a double life of working the night shift at the store one week and appearing in front of more than 10,000 people and countless more on television the next week...More?
source: the pitch
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Wahoo McDaniel
June 19, 1938
The current NWA formed in Waterloo, Iowa.
June 19, 1948
Antonio Inoki defeated Dick Murdoch in a tournament final for the IWGP Heavyweight title.
June 19, 1986
NWA-TNA debuts on PPV
June 19, 2002
Ken Shamrock won a 20 man Battle Royal for the NWA Heavyweight title.
June 19, 2002
June 18, 2009
WWE Superstars Results: Packed to the Brim
The main event on “WWE Superstars” saw three of ECW’s most talented young Superstars fall just short in a battle against former ECW Champion Christian & the Unified Tag Team Champions. Much of the match saw Swagger, Tyson Kidd & David Hart Smith controlling Primo, stop one-half of the Tag Champions from making a tag. Showing themselves to be a truly cohesive unit, Swagger worked well with The Hart Dynasty, but unfortunately, one misstep by Kidd saw the tides change. Primo tagged-in his brother Carlito, and the “cool” Superstar quickly gained control of the match. Both Swagger and Smith attempted to sway the momentum back in their favor, but after some help from Christian & Primo clearing the ring, Carlito used the Backstabber for the win. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Borash Shoots on Bischoff
The latest edition of TNA Spin Cycle has Jeremy Borash playing a clip from a recent interview Eric Bischoff did where he had less than nice things to say about him.
"Best of Smackdown 1999-2009" DVD
For ten years, SmackDown has provided the most unpredictable moments and matches on network television. The Best of SmackDown 1999 – 2009 counts down the 100 greatest moments in the show’s history. Click here for the line up.
Harsh Words From Paul Roma
Paul Roma has an audio show on ClubWWI.com called "Glorious". He has never minced his words and had a few choice things to say about Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair and Mick Foley:
On Shawn Michaels:
"Shawn Michaels, he should have been gone a long time ago. But since he's friends with Triple H, they keep him around. I don't know what kind of money he makes, but I'm sure it's decent. He's a mess. Physically. I look at him and his face looks like he did a Michael Jackson."
On Ric Flair:
"Flair's running around doing these autograph sessions because he's broke. All those years you busted your butt, you travelled, and you have nothing to show for it. You owe the government what? A million dollars in taxes? Dude, you might as well kill yourself. That's the only way you'll ever beat the government. You'll never ever pay them back, unless you hit a Powerball. Even then. Oh. Here's your million dollars."
On Mick Foley:
"Mick Foley can't wrestle – plain and simple. Most wrestlers would agree. Probably even him. So if he's not launching himself off a roof, gouging his head, breaking bones, or spitting blood, it's boring. He can't do anything. What is it he can do?...They expect to see this idiot jeopardize his life, otherwise they don't care because that's what they're used to."
USA Network Clarifies that Donald Trump Buying WWE Raw is Part of a Storyline
"USA Network and WWE issued a press release on June 16 that referred to Monday Night RAW's storyline of a 'sale' of WWE's RAW to Donald Trump. We intended the release to be promotional for that ongoing story arc on the series. There is no such actual 'sale'. We apologize for any confusion."
Truly amazing that they has to do this. But then again, the main-stream media fell for the "McMahon Dies in Limo Explosion" story also.
Congress to Look into Testimony by Sosa
A congressional committee will look into former baseball slugger Sammy Sosa's denial that he used illegal performance-enhancing drugs in light of a report that he tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug in 2003...More?
source: msn.foxsports.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Bruiser Brody
June 18, 1946
Jack & Jerry Brisco defeated Rick Steamboat & Jay Youngblood for the NWA World Tag Team title.
June 18, 1983
June 17, 2009
Jim Cramer on WWE Stock
One of the most visible financial analysts on TV, Jim Cramer, offered a mixed review of WWE's stock on tonight's "Mad Money" broadcast that airs weekly on CNBC.
WWE's stock price has steadily increased the past few months from trading in the low $10-per-share range to $13 in June. Shares closed at $12.71 today.
"Very torn. I need to see a reversal of fortune or some momentum," Cramer said today about WWE's stock. "I am nervous about this one."
Cramer upgraded his previous opinion from March 11 when he said he did not recommend buying WWE shares. At the time, WWE stock's price was down to $9.83 per share and overall down 7.9 percent for the year.
source: pwtorch.com
The Scramble Returns at The Bash
In order to keep his most prized possession as ECW Champion, Tommy Dreamer will not only have to defeat Christian again, but Jack Swagger, Mark Henry and Finlay as well. The five Superstars are poised to square off in an ECW Championship Scramble Match at The Bash to determine who is worthy of touting the title...More?
source: wwe.com
Title Belt Offers Tribe Another Incentive
The Indians have a little something more to play for from here on out.
Jerry "The King" Lawler -- former professional wrestler and current commentator for World Wrestling Entertainment -- delivered, at the request of designated hitter Travis Hafner, a WWE championship belt to the Tribe clubhouse before Tuesday's game. The belt, Lawler said, is an exact replica of the belt given to the WWE's finest, with the notable difference being the gold plate with an "Indians" inscription.
"After every win," Lawler announced, "the Player of the Game will be given the belt. At the end of the year, whoever wins the belt the most will keep it."...More?
source: mlb.com
Q&A with Kofi Kingston
Q: You have a communications degree. Has that ever come in handy?
A: Yeah, I think so. My degree concentrated on advertising, and I took some PR and marketing classes. A big part of the WWE is being able to market yourself. You are your own product. You have to find ways to advertise yourself and make yourself pop with the crowd and basically anyone you come in contact with.
Q: Who was your favorite wrestler growing up?
A: It changes every day. I'll look at a match and think "This guy is my favorite." Right now it's Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat and Owen Hart. I was always into martial arts and high flyers and "The Dragon" is a combo of both. Owen could do some incredible things, things you hadn't seen at the time.
Q: Do you have any rituals before a match?
A: Usually a lot of bouncing around. I usually start warming up about an hour before the show, regardless of where my match is in the show. I like to get my nerves out early, so when I go out I'm relaxed....More?
source: desmoinesregister.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Barry Windham & Mike Rotundo defeated Iron Sheik & Nikolai Volkoff for the WWF(E) Tag Team Titles.
June 17, 1985
June 16, 2009
ECW Results: Ready for a Fight
A retribution-seeking Christian was ready to face David Hart Smith on ECW after his tag teammate, Jack Swagger, turned on him last week causing a loss to The Hart Dynasty. But Captain Charisma was once again defeated by his pink and black-clad foes, this time after Natalya distracted the referee while Tyson Kidd attacked Christian from the ring apron, allowing Hart Smith to get the pin.
After the match, The Dynasty continued their attack on Christian, but they quickly fled the ring when a shillelagh-wielding Finlay charged in. As The Dynasty stared down Finlay, The Fighting Irishman lived up to his moniker and shockingly smashed his shillelagh across Christian’s head, leaving him face down in the ring. Moments later, Finlay – who was out of action for several weeks after sustaining an eye injury while breaking up a fight between Christian and ECW Champion Tommy Dreamer – explained to Gregory Helms: “Where I come from there’s a little saying – an eye for an eye, and that’s what it’ll be.” Full results.
source: wwe.com
Rumor Mill - WWE Looking for New Writers
Stephanie McMahon recently told RAW head writer Brian Gewirtz and SmackDown head writer Michael Hayes that she wants to bring in more creative writers. They started looking for new writers last week and she told Gewirtz to reach out to anyone he knew at MTV. On a related note, the new writer that took over for John Carle is said to be treading on thin ice.
source: f4wonline
Laid Off But Living A Dream
Grown men with potbellies squeezed into spandex crowded inside the boys' locker room, ready to wrestle. The fact that most of the men in this middle school gym in a small West Virginia town would spend more on gas than they'd make this night seemed beside the point.
This is the stuff of dreams -- at least the dreams of Troy Long.
For nine years, Long worked at Volvo's New River Valley plant, helping to build the 18-wheelers that are made there largely by hand. Then, a year ago, he was laid off. The plant, one of the largest employers in southwest Virginia, has lost about 2,400 people, or two-thirds of its workforce, since 2006, when production was at its peak.
With no job, dwindling savings and a son to take care of, Long did what might seem counterintuitive: He walked into Boogie's Wrestling Camp in Shawsville, Va., and signed up. He figured that if the real world no longer had a leash on him, why not run wildly toward what he'd always enjoyed?...More?
source: washingtonpost.com
Update on the DSW vs. WWE Lawsuit
Jody Hamilton and Deep South Wrestling are claiming that WWE breached their contract with DSW.
Hamilton claims he and DSW were "fully compliant" with their contract agreement with WWE where the partnership saw Hamilton paid a salary of $80,000, while DSW as a company was paid $80,000 to provide developmental training. The counter to this argument was that there were many allegations of bullying by trainers of WWE developmental talents which got so bad that filming of the training sessions was required by WWE. Injuries were also said to be common among training sessions as well and the morale among talent was described as being very bad.
Hamilton is claiming that DSW's deal with WWE required the company to provide DSW and himself with at least 90 days notice that the deal was ending, which didn't happen. He is also stating that WWE "arranged through an intentional and calculated method" to time the arrival of their officials at DSW's place of business without giving notice to Hamilton beforehand and that the company did everything in their power to prevent him from knowing they would be arriving as the alleged plan was for them to "remove all personal and computer information" without anyone from DSW being present. The lawsuit further adds that WWE removed "wrestling rings, seating, computer hardware, software, and information belonging to DSW" and that "shared personnel" were informed they would be transferred and have no further business dealings with Hamilton and DSW...More?
source: wrestleview.com
Koko B. Ware Answers Your Questions
WWE Hall of Famer Koko B. Ware set aside a few minutes of his schedule to answer questions from his fans, courtesy of SLAM! Wrestling. The Birdman shares his insight on everything from his early days with Norvell Austin to how he learned to do his bird dance. Click here.
Mr. Kennedy...Injury Prone?
Ken Kennedy answers this question on his official site:
Let's say that you're having a match with a guy who's just supposed to give you a lil' old schoolboy to end the match. Just a nice and easy rollup for the finish. In fact the night before he hit you with his finish and the crowd didn't really react as strongly as you would have liked it to, so the agent (or producer) who's in charge of your match that night has told your opponent specifically NOT to hit his finish. Now keep in mind that having said this, your opponent's finisher is probably the furthest thing from your mind. So as you're waiting for this nice little easy rollup for the finish, the guy leaps into the air, hooks your head tight, causing your right arm to get caught between your two bodies, and drives you chest first into the mat. You go from standing to laying on your stomach with your arm stretched across your chest and your shoulder pops out of it's socket, tearing that muscle about 60% away from the bone. Now again, would an event such as this make you......"injury prone"?...More?
WWE & Big Show Sued by SoBe Entertainment
SoBe Entertainment filed a multi-milllion dollar lawsuit against World Wrestling Entertainment, Paul "Big Show" Wight and his wife Bess in Miami-Dade County Court on Monday.
SoBe claims it advanced Wight $1 million to buy a house, plus $84,000 a month, on Wight's promise that the company could manage him as he trained to become a pro boxer. SoBe says that Wight refused to perform, and failed to disclose he owed the IRS $450,000, and now the IRS has filed a lien on the house. SoBe are demanding $2 million from the Wights and $15 million from WWE for interference for re-signing Wight after he dismissed SoBe.
source: rajah.com
Another Class Act by Triple H After Raw
The following was sent to WrestleZone.com by a fan who attended Monday Night Raw last night in Charlotte:
Wrestlezone,
I have been a fan of wrestling for a long time. I've gone to ever wwe live event within a 100 mile radius of charlotte for the last 5 years. Before that I traveled to the nearest location wherever Raw or smackdown was being held. I can honestly say tonights RAW was the most fun I've had in a long time. I've been a fan since I was little. I'm now 30+ and I still turn into a kid when I go to live events. I saw something tonight in charlotte that made me more of a fan of Triple H than I ever was before.
It had nothing to do with wrestling or politics or simply getting over with the fans. It was pure class. After the matches HHH threw a T-shirt into the stands. As usual a crowd scambled to get the T-shirt. Of course, someone managed to get it. However, there was a small kid around 10-12 that got caught up in the melee. The kid was knocked down and started crying and laying on the floor. The entire time this was happening HHH didn't take his eyes off the situation. He immediately went straight threw the crowd to the little boy, picked him up and took him back into the ring.
He then gave the boy a pep talk and motioned him to pose with him around the ring. They went around the ring posing. The boy was so happy you would have thought it was Christmas. Any pain he may have felt or no matter how upset he may have been, this definitely made up for it. HHH then took the boy back, circled around the ring and then came back to the boy to make sure he was OK. This to me was a class act and made me a fan of the person along with being a fan of the wrestler. Props to HHH! Just my 2 cents. 
Raw Results: Trumping the Competition
Mr. McMahon appeared on Raw, shocking the WWE Universe to the core by announcing the show's new owner, none other than billionaire celebrity, Donald Trump, who announced that the next Raw would be entirely commerical free.
Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase competed in Raw’s 10-Man Battle Royal with their primary goal being to prevent certain people from earning a WWE Title opportunity, one of which was no doubt their mentor Randy Orton’s nemesis, Triple H. The Legacy members and The Game collided in Raw’s main event along with John Cena, Kofi Kingston, MVP, Big Show, Matt Hardy, The Miz and William Regal.
With so many powerful ring warriors present, harboring so much ill will toward one another, the match could have gone anyone’s way. However, Triple H was fighting not only for the WWE Title, but a chance to gain retribution for the torment Orton has wrought on him and his family. That added motivation, coupled with the amazing in-ring abilities of The Game was enough to ensure his victory, and his place at The Bash.
As Triple H celebrated and WWE Champion Randy Orton looked on nervously from the stage, the festivities were interrupted by Raw’s new owner, Donald Trump. The billionaire celebrity congratulated The Game and then announced that the WWE Universe wouldn’t need to wait until The Bash to see The Viper defend the WWE Title against The Cerebral Assassin, as the two would be facing off against one another on the next Raw in a Last Man Standing Match. Full results.
source: wwe.com
This Day in Wrestling History
At WCW's Great American Bash in Baltimore, MD, Scott Hall and Kevin Nash attacked Eric Bischoff. Nash powerbombed him off the stage.
June 16, 1996
