September 30, 2009

Update on Jeff Hardy's Court Appearances

Steelers Mum About Big Ben's WWE Appearance

If Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is touching a raw nerve with coach Mike Tomlin by appearing at a wrestling show less than 24 hours after Sunday's game against San Diego, the coach isn't saying.

Tomlin offered only a "no comment" when asked about Roethlisberger serving as the guest host at the televised WWE Raw show Monday in Wilkes-Barre, Pa.

NFL players commonly make such appearances during a season only during a bye week, but the Steelers play the following Sunday in Detroit.

Roethlisberger is taking his offensive linemen with him, and left tackle Max Starks said Wednesday the players didn't tell the coaches in advance. The Steelers will hold a team meeting Monday, but Tuesday is the players' weekly day off.

Roethlisberger declined to talk with reporters on Wednesday, the day he usually speaks.

source: associated press

Get Your Head Out of the Game

How should Florida respond to Tim Tebow's concussive brain injury? Click here.

source: slate.com

Vince McMahon Comments on Today's Superstars

Question: What defines today's top Superstars?

Vince McMahon: It's everything that people don't see. It's easy to say from a visual standpoint that bigger is better in reference to past eras of WWF. But take The Warlord, for example. He was enormous — one of the most visually impressive Superstars we've had — but he couldn't sell five tickets. He had no charisma, no "gift of gab," which is what really sets apart today's Superstars, even if they may not be as physically intimidating. Someone like CM Punk, even though he's a good-looking guy, isn't built like that. He probably weighs less than I do. But today's fans are drawn to his confidence and charisma. Those are the things a Superstar exudes, and they translate though the television set.

source: WWE Magazine November 2009

This Day in Wrestling History

Happy Birthday to Chris Von Erich
September 30, 1969

September 29, 2009

Rumor Mill - Incident with New WWE Ring Announcer

Update from Lauren Mayhew's management.

ECW Results: William Regal New Interim GM

In the absence of ECW General Manager Tiffany, none other than William Regal filled in for the injured Diva. As interim General Manager, The British Brawler seized his power to change the ECW on Syfy main event from ECW Champion Christian vs. Zack Ryder to a 4-on-1 Handicap Match pitting Captain Charisma against himself, Ryder, Ezekiel Jackson & Vladimir Kozlov. But before Regal could dream about outnumbering the ECW Champion, WWE’s Board of Directors informed him the main event would be an Eight-Man Tag Team Match also including Yoshi Tatsu, Tommy Dreamer & Goldust on Christian’s side. Full results.

source: wwe.com

Matt Morgan Speaks Out on ADHD



Click here for the article.

An Exploration of the Art of Announcing

Pro wrestling announcers have perhaps the most challenging jobs in the business. They are the only ones required to sit at a desk for two or three hours and work from the minute that little red light on the camera goes on, to the second it goes off.

"I will generally spend several hours the week of the PPV from Wednesday through Saturday preparing and then I lay low the night before the event reading over my notes and of various ways to describe the superstars," Ross told SLAM! Wrestling. "You will rarely see me 'out with the boys' the night before a big event. I have been known as one who perhaps 'over prepares' but I like to be mentally ready to do my job and I approached broadcasting football or any other entity the same way. The viewers deserve the best product possible and that means the broadcasters need to carry their share of the water and not get in the way of the broadcast but enhance it with info that they perceive the fans need or want to know."...More?

source: slam wrestling

Atlanta is Bidding for WrestleMania

Atlanta is seeking to host WrestleMania XXVII in 2011, which could bring 100,000 fans to the Georgia Dome for the wrestling match and its week of activities. Atlanta is going toe-to-toe with Miami to try to pin down the event, which will be held either the last week of March or the first week of April 2011.

Atlanta officials should know by the end of September or early October which city has been selected.

source: albany.bizjournals.com

ROH on HDNet Results 09/28/09

This Day in Wrestling History

Arn Anderson & Tully Blanchard defeated Rick Morton & Robert Gibson for the NWA World Tag Team title.
September 29, 1987

Ric Flair officially disbands the Four Horsemen.
September 29, 1997

Rob Van Dam defeated Christian for the WWE Intercontinental title.
September 29, 2003

September 28, 2009

The Next Guest Host of Raw is.....

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

We've Got Two Words For You . . . S*ck It! - What Inspired It?

"It was about 100 years ago, and Triple H, Kevin Nash, Scott Hall, Sean Waltman and myself were in Europe. Sean started doing that gesture, and then we started saying that phrase to each other. It slowly evolved from there. We were all from that generation where if you beat something over the head long enough, it becomes funny. It started with him doing the gesture to us saying, 's**k It' and then, before you knew it someone was saying 'I got two words for you.' It grew from an inside joke. I am surprised everyday that people still enjoy it. Hunter and I are always waiting for that other shoe to drop, to see people grow tired of it. But now it's like the KISS farewell tour. It's happened 500 times and there's always that one last tour. If not for those two words, I think we would have found something that was equally as offensive. I don't think anything or anyone here became popular because of just one thing certainly not just a catchphrase. If there's a career that's built around just one catchphrase, then that career is not going to last very lone. - Shawn Michaels

source: November 2009 WWE Magazine

Update on RAW Ring Announcer

Justin Roberts has been moved from SmackDown to RAW and will be the ring announcer for tonight's show.

Originally, it was thought that Lauren Mayhew would be replacing Lilian Garcia as RAW ring announcer, however it came out over the weekend that she'll instead take over SmackDown ring announcing duties.

source: wrestlezone.com

This Day in Wrestling History

Bret Hart turns on Sting following his match with Hulk Hogan on Nitro, joining Hogan in the process.
September 27, 1998

September 27, 2009

To Hell and Back - History of the Hell in a Cell Match

WWE.com has listed all the HIAC matches beginning with The Undetaker vs. Shawn Michaels match which was on October 5, 1997. Triple H's matches are as follows:

* Triple H v. Cactus Jack - February 27, 2000
* Kurt Angle vs. The Undetaker vs. Triple H vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Rikiski vs. The Rock - December 10, 2000
* Triple H vs. Chris Jericho - May 19, 2002
* Triple H vs. Kevin Nash - June 15, 2003
* Triple H vs. Shawn Michaels - June 13, 2004
* Batista vs. Triple H - June 26, 2005
* Triple H & Shawn Michaels vs. Vince McMahon, Shane McMahon &
The Big Show - September 17, 2006

Full list

Video: Jim Cornette Returns to ROH

Ring of Honor Glory By Honor VIII Recap

10th Annual Baltimore Comic Con


Jerry "The King" Lawler, who illustrated cover images in Headlocked - The first REAL wrestling comic will be making an appearance. The Bamn Crew will also be there on October 10th. Click here for more.

This Day in Wrestling History

Razor Ramon won a 20 man Battle Royal for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
September 27, 1993

The WWF(E) Heavyweight title declared vacent when Kane and the Undertaker both pin Steve Austin in a three-way match.
September 27, 1998

September 26, 2009

Bodybuilding.com Raided in Criminal Steroid Investigation on Eve of IFBB Olympia Weekend

A nutrition company owned by the same company that owns the Atlanta Braves is selling steroids over the Internet, according to allegations in court papers unsealed Thursday. The nutrition company, BodyBuilding.com, is selling dietary supplements that contain steroids and designer steroids, including a substance found in the raid on the Bay Area Laboratory Co-operative in 2003, the court papers said.

Federal authorities unsealed a search warrant on Thursday after agents raided the headquarters and a warehouse of BodyBuliding.com in the Boise, Idaho, area. In 2008, Liberty Media purchased a controlling stake in BodyBuilding.com for over $100 million. Liberty Media bought the Braves from Time Warner in 2007. Among the other businesses in which Liberty Media has interests are QVC, Ticketmaster and DirectTV.

The raid was part of an ongoing effort by the Food and Drug Administration to target companies that are selling steroids as dietary supplements...More?

source: nytimes.com

Interview with GLOW's Babe the Farmer's Daughter

Lisa Marie Varon - "I feel like I am the next Brock Lesnar"

Lisa Marie Varon, who currently works for Total Nonstop Action wrestling as "Tara," and formerly for WWE as "Victoris" recently announced her intention to make her MMA debut in the near future. And while she has not set a date, the 38-year-old told FanHouse that she would love to fight before the end of the year.

"I feel more than ready now. I mean, if someone said tomorrow, You have to fight tomorrow, I feel I can fight tomorrow," she said.

"I know I have the stigma of being a pro wrestler coming into this industry, but I know I'm not going to go in there just to make a competitive match. I'm there to make a statement and to dominate the fight. I'm not going to be going in there half-ready; I'm going to make a statement. I know that I'm going to be representing Brock Lesnar, Bobby Lashley, but I feel like I am the next Brock Lesnar. He has ridiculous strength and so do I."...More?

This Day in Wrestling History

Triple H defeated The Rock for WWF(E) Title.
September 26, 1999

September 25, 2009

SmackDown Results: To Hell and Back

As CM Punk battled Undertaker in the night’s main event, the thoughts of what transpired at WWE Breaking Point were still fresh in the minds of everyone in the WWE Universe. As both Superstars waged war, the action spilled out onto the arena floor. It looked as if Punk was done for, when The Deadman prepared to slam him onto the announce table. But, The Straightedge Superstar managed to avoid being trounced and pushed Undertaker onto the announce table. As the ref neared the 10-count, Punk slithered back into the ring. The Deadman entered right on Punk’s tail, but it was not quick enough to avoid the ref’s final count of 10. Full results.

source: wwe.com

Austin Aries Comments on Bryan Danielson & Nigel McGuinness Going to the WWE

Raw House Show Results - Guatemala City, Guatemala

Evan Bourne def. Chavo Guerrero

Santino Marella def. Eric Escobar

Mark Henry def. Chris Masters

Jack Swagger def. Primo

WWE Divas Champion Mickie James def. Alicia Fox

MVP def. The Miz

WWE Champion John Cena def. Randy Orton via DQ

WWE Champion John Cena & Triple H def. Legacy

Al Sharpton's Office Addresses WWE's Past Racial Insensitivity

The Steel Cage received this statement from a spokeswoman for Al Sharpton, in response to justifying Sharpton appearing on WWE programming that has a history of racial insensitivity:

"In order to raise awareness and actually do something about the devastating achievement gap in education between kids of color and their white peers the viewership of WWE events is precisely the group of people who need to be reached and involved. Reverend Sharpton has stated repeatedly that all of us must take extraordinary steps to reverse the current trend in education and that unlikely alliances (like with Newt Gingrich) and forums like the WWE should be utilized if they help close the gap.

Reverend Sharpton has led --and will continue to lead-- the fight against the use of the N-word and bigotry of all types, but until we end disparity in education, such conduct will continue. Rev. Sharpton appeared on BET while fighting against the N-word in their videos and there is no difference.

As Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and John McCain did before him, Reverend Sharpton recognizes that WWE events provide an unfettered opportunity to raise important issues to a national audience of Americans.

Rev. Sharpton has talked to Vince McMahon who assured him that they have corrected and will discontinue any racial denigration."...More?

source: newsday.com

Mayweather-Marquez Gets 1 Million PPV Buys

Floyd Mayweather Jr. was once boxing's pound-for-pound champion, and now he's evolving into its pay-per-view king as well.

Mayweather's victory over Juan Manuel Marquez last weekend generated an impressive 1 million pay-per-view buys, HBO Sports announced Friday. The robust result confirms Mayweather's once-debatable superstar status in a sport that thrives on big names in big events.

The bout at the MGM Grand Garden in Las Vegas on Sept. 19 generated $52 million in pay-per-view revenue at its $49.95 suggested price, making it the highest-performing event this year. It's just the fifth non-heavyweight event to generate 1 million buys on a list headed by Mayweather's split-decision victory over Oscar De La Hoya in 2007, which had a record 2.44 million.

"I am truly humbled by the numbers, and I appreciate all of the sports fans who either came to the fight or bought it on pay-per-view," Mayweather said. "It felt great to be back in the ring, and next time I will be even better."...More?

source: associated press

Decade of SmackDown Main Event

DX, John Cena and The Undertaker vs. CM Punk, Randy Orton and Legacy will be the main event for next week's three-hour episode of SmackDown.

Chris Jericho Urges Vince McMahon to Ditch the Company's Old Guard in Favour of Promoting New Talent

Despite himself being a 19 year-veteran, the 38-year-old Canadian claims the world's leading wrestling promotion is in danger of going stale if the likes of Triple H, Undertaker and Shawn Michaels continue to dominate the spotlight.

Jericho insists rising stars like Legacy, Morrison and Jack Swagger can safeguard the long-term future of the company if McMahon gives them the opportunity to do so.

"I think that Morrison is learning more each week, I think Dolph Ziggler is learning more each week, Cryme Tyme have learned a lot over the last few months.

"Legacy is getting there, Jack Swagger, Kofi Kingston and The Miz — those are the guys that are going to have to start becoming more of a presence.

"A couple of guys in ECW, like Evan Bourne... Sheamus is another guy that I think has some potential.

Former world heavyweight champion Jericho said: "Creating new talent, creating new stars, that's the most important thing for any of the brands to do.

"They have to keep the wheels turning — they can't just base it on the same guys year in and year out. That's how business fails — that's how WCW failed."...More?

source: the sun

This Day in Wrestling History

Shawn Michaels & Diesel were stripped of the WWF(E) Tag Team title by WWF(E) President Gorilla Monsoon.
September 25, 1995

WWF(E) RAW is WAR debuts on TNN after making a departure from the USA Network.
September 25, 2000

September 24, 2009

TNA iMPACT! Recap 09/24/09

WWE Superstars Results: Seeing Red

Everyone’s got a limit, and Kane passed his as Matt Hardy evaded everything he threw at him, frustrating The Big Red Monster to the point of ignoring the referee and getting himself disqualified. Hardy fought valiantly against Kane, showing no sign of backing down from his sadistic opponent, but that relentless aggression may have been what caused the massive Superstar to lose himself the match. When Hardy went for the Twist of Fate, Kane blocked it and instead dropped Hardy across the ropes, and despite the ring official’s warnings, he repeated the act two more times prompting the referee to call for the bell. There’s a fury inside of the 7-footer that is always in danger of being unleashed, and unfortunately for Hardy, he was the one who ended up seeing red as Kane made his signature crimson lit exit. Full results.

source: wwe.com

Raw Superstars in El Salvador

Click here.

Video: DX, John Cena & Lilian Garcia

Raw House Show Results - San Salvador, El Salvador

Evan Bourne over Chavo Guerrero
Eric Escobar over Santino Marella
Mark Henry over Chris Masters
Jack Swagger over Primo Colon
Mickie James over Beth Phoenix
MVP over The Miz
John Cena over Randy Orton. Triple H did a run in during the main event. He was treated as a megastar and got by far the biggest reaction of the night. The show drew 4500 fans.

source: The Wrestling Globe Newsletter

Wrestling Goes iWrestling with iPhone Apps

Apple smartly allowed anyone to create Apps for download in their iTunes store, allowing really no parameters. Wrestling was no exception, but the selection is very small. WWE has yet to release an iPhone application of any kind and TNA’s entry created little buzz when introduced. A few websites created Apps to show abbreviated versions of their web sites.

Below are some of the larger and most popular wrestling Apps available for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Click here for some of the larger and most popular wrestling Apps available for the iPhone and iPod Touch.

source: slam wrestling

Score Media and WWE Partner

Score Media Inc. and World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. have partnered once again to give fans a full slate of world-renowned WWE programming.

Shane McMahon, Executive Vice President, Global Media for WWE, said "We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with The Score which would not be possible without the dedication of our WWE fans in Canada. The expansion of our programming on The Score with entertaining television along with our established programs allows viewers more opportunities to enjoy the action-packed excitement of WWE."...More?

source: broadcastermagazine.com

WWE's New Ring Announcer Comments on Her Debut

Bret Hart Comments on The Hart Dynasty

Graham Cawthon asked Bret for his comments about the success of The Hart Dynasty (David Hart Smith, Tyson Kidd, & Natalya Neidhart) on SmackDown, as well as if he feels that the three are progressing in the right fashion. "I think they are all doing a great job. They're getting better & better and more confident. Technically, they are as good as they're gonna get, and they're as good as anybody in the company when it comes to actually working. Their work stands on its own. I'm proud of all three of them."...More?

source: impactwrestling.com

Happy Birthday Stephanie


Stephanie Marie McMahon Levesque
September 24, 1976

This Day in Wrestling History

Greg Valentine defeated Tito Santana for the WWWF(WWE) Intercontinental title.
September 24, 1984

Shawn Michaels & Diesel defeated Owen Hart & Yokozuna for the WWF(E) Tag Team title.
September 24, 1995

September 23, 2009

Rumor Mill - Bret Hart in Talks with WWE

According to a new report by The Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Bret Hart has been in talks with WWE about doing some business and the talks may have played a part in wanting to refresh the whole "1997 Survivor Series incident" in Montreal at the Breaking Point PPV on September 13...More?

Rumor Mill - New WWE Ring Announcer

Lauren Mayhew, who is a singer and an actress, did the ring announcing at last night's Smackdown tapings. Although Lillian Garcia does not do ring announcing on Smackdown, it's being said that having Mayhew do the announcing last night was a way to groom her to be a possible replacement for Lillian on Raw. Since Mayhew is a singer, and WWE was reportedly looking for an announcer who could sing, it seems most likely that Mayhew will replace Garcia. For more information on Mayhew, including photos, visit www.laurenmayhew.com.

source: wrestlezone.com

This Day in Wrestling History

Happy Birthday to Matt Hardy
September 23, 1974

Kurt Angle defeated Steve Austin for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title and Christian defeated Edge for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
September 23, 2001

September 22, 2009

ECW Results: Another Knock on Christian's Door

Captain Charisma could not be stopped by The Zack Attack. With plenty of Peeps cheering him on in the BOK Center, Christian successfully defended the ECW Championship against Zack Ryder. Despite Ryder’s strong efforts, he could not woo the ECW Title away from the Captain. After a devastating Killswitch, Christian pinned the cocky, young Superstar for the win on ECW on Syfy.

Christian’s ECW Championship celebration was quickly soured when William Regal interrupted to say the night’s title defense was a farce. “Sooner or later I’m going to be the No. 1 contender,” The British Brawler said. “So it’s only a matter of time before I become the ECW…” Christian promptly silenced Regal, attacking him with the ECW Championship, sending a message that he’s not about to back down. Full results.

source: wwe.com

Triple H & Cedric the Entertainer

Photos: DX on Raw

Click here for more photos.

More Legal Troubles for The Ultimate Warrior

There's been another setback for the Ultimate Warrior in his legal battle against WWE. Last week, it became clear that Warrior's lawsuit against WWE for defamation related to the "Self Destruction of the Ultimate Warrior" DVD would be thrown out because WWE lawyers were able to demonstrate that Warrior publicly defamed WWE first. On Monday, Judge Roslyn O. Silver ruled that Warrior will now will have to pay $18,967.46 for the legal costs and expenses WWE had to pay to defending themselves against Warrior's lawsuit.

source: pwinsider.com

BG James Comments on his TNA Release

"Yeah. To be very honest, I was caught very much by surprise. They were using me as a road agent for the house shows, TV, and pay-per-views, but what surprised me the most was the house shows. I was really the only agent they had going out on the road for all the house shows they were doing every weekend. So that kind of caught me by surprise because I didn't think they would just call me one day and say, 'You're done. Thanks for all your work.' I kind of thought that maybe if I got let go it would be, you know, they would give me some time or something. So I was caught be surprise for sure."...More?

source: worldwrestlinginsanity.com

DX, Legacy, Orton, Cena & Lillian After Raw

Legacy came out. Then along with Randy Orton they cornered John Cena. A beat down ensued until DX made the save. Legacy bailed and then Orton took all three finishers like he's been doing on other recent shows.

DX and Cena remained in the ring. They did the "Are you ready" thing several times, but kept stopping before actually going through the whole thing. At first Shawn wasn't doing something right, then they got Cena in on the action but he wasn't loose enough and wasn't "crouching" properly. Once the three of them were finally ready, HHH stopped it yet again and said, "Something still doesn't feel right...we're still missing something....on yeah it's Lillian."

Lillian Garcia came into the ring. HHH told her to assume the position, which she did happily. Cena crouched behind her. He made some faces, people laughed, and they all finally did the "Let's get ready to suck it" chant. She also did the "Two words for you" bit as well. She then climbed to the 2nd rope for a loud ovation. She then left the ring. DX and Cena then shook hands with the crowd, signed autographs, and left.

source: prowrestling.net

Linda McMahon Acknowledges Not Voting in Several Elections

"I talk all the time about how important it is for people to vote. And it is. Yet, I haven't always been the best example myself. I missed a general election vote in ‘06. I missed several local elections. I didn't vote in the ’08 presidential primary after John McCain was the presumptive nominee. I regret it, I apologize, and I don't make any excuses for it. I think it’s important that leaders be willing to step up and own their mistakes when they make them. That’s how I plan to run my campaign, and it’s how I intend to represent Connecticut in the U.S. Senate."

source: linda2010.com

This Day in Wrestling History

Owen Hart & Davy Boy Smith defeated the Smokin' Guns for the WWF(E) Tag Team title.
September 22, 1996

ECW interrupts a match at a WWF(E) In Your House PPV. The Sandman, Paul Heyman and Tommy Dreamer bought ring side tickets. The three are escorted out of the building after The Sandman spits beer on Savio Vega.
September 22, 1996

September 21, 2009

Mosley Ruins Mayweather's Win Over Marquez; Triple H Mentioned

Fox Sports has an article at this link looking at the post-fight antics of Shane Mosley following Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s win over Juan Manuel Marquez on Saturday night. The article adds, "As it ended, with Shane Mosley in the ring seizing an unwarranted opportunity to provoke Floyd Mayweather, HBO's $50 pay-per-view felt like WWE's "Monday Night Raw." If only Mosley could've conducted himself with the class of Pretty Boy's valet, Triple H."...More?

Triple H & Stephanie McMahon at the Mayweather Fight

The Reverend Comes to RAW

Left and Right work together to host Raw...and reform schools. Ign.com is reporting that Al Sharpton will be hosting Raw on September 28th...More?

Rumor Mill - TNA Signs New Knockout

Word is that TNA has signed third generation talent and former WWE developmental Diva Lacey Von Erich to a contract. She may start at the iMPACT! tapings this week. Lacey is also booked for Hulk Hogan's upcoming tour of Australia.

source: wrestling observer

This Day in Wrestling History

Happy Birthday to Ricky Morton of the Rock 'n Roll Express.
September 21, 1956

Bill Goldberg defeated Triple H for the World Heavyweight Championship at Unforgiven.
September 21, 2003

September 20, 2009

TNA No Surender Results

AJ Styles is the new TNA World Heavyweight Champion and Taylor Wilde & Sarita beat Velvet Sky & Madison Rayne to become the first ever TNA Knockout Tag Team Champions...More?

Triple H Candid

Floyd Mayweather Jr. v Juan Manuel Marquez
Mayweather vs. Marquez fight

Triple H in the Ring with Floyd Mayweather

Mayweather Dominates Marquez

Judges scored it 118-109, 120-107, 119-108 after 12 rounds for Floyd Jr.

Triple H on Twitter

Triple H was the #2 trending topic on Twitter as of 12:28 this morning.

UFC 103 Results

This Day in Wrestling History

Happy Birthday to Greg "The Hammer" Valentine
September 20, 1951

Happy Birthday to Arn Anderson (Martin Anthony Lunde)
September 20, 1958

Shawn Michaels became the first ever "grand slam" winner in the history of the WWF(E) (Heavyweight, I.C., European, Tag)
September 20, 1997

Shawn Michaels, Triple H and Chyna form D-Generation X.
September 20, 1997

Vince McMahon gave up the WWF(E) Heavyweight title and declared it vacant.
September 20, 1999

September 19, 2009

District Court Throws Out Wrestlers Lawsuit Against WWE... Again

Back in February, a federal court in Connecticut dismissed a lawsuit brought by three former wrestlers who contended, among other things, that they were improperly classified as independent contractors.

The case garnered national attention for a variety of reasons, including the disclosure of the wrestlers contracts. (If you'd like to see the details on the contract, you can view them here.)

But after that, two of the three wrestlers (Scott Levy and Christopher Klucsarits) filed a motion to amend the judgment or otherwise set it aside to allow them an replead (or refile) their claims. Notably, one of the wrestlers --- Michael Sanders -- did not join in this motion.

On July 31, 2009, the District Court denied the wrestlers' motions, finding that even if it allowed the amendments at this late date, such amendments would be "futile". In other words, even if the court allowed the amendment, the wrestlers would STILL lose on the merits. You can download the decision here.

The wrestlers contended that they could still make a claim under the federal law governing benefit plans. But the court said that even that claim would fail...More?

source: ctemploymentlawblog.com

Photos: Mayweather-Marquez Weigh-In

Click here for more.

Dawn Marie: Health Care Program for Wrestlers 'Very Close'

Triple H at the Mayweather-Marquez Weigh-In

September 18, 2009

WWE Tribute to the Troops Update

WWE will once again return to the Middle East to put on the annual Tribute to the Troops show. WWE will travel in early December to tape the special, visit with the troops, and then the special will again air on NBC as a one hour special. The special is currently scheduled for December 19th at 9PM ET. This will be the second year in a row that the special will air on NBC.

source: impactwrestling.com

SmackDown Results: Consumed in Controversy

When interviewed as to why he called for the bell the second CM Punk locked in the Anaconda Vise on Undertaker at WWE Breaking Point, official Scott Armstrong seemed to imply that he made the questionable call because his job was on the line. He said that someone “much higher than him” had told him to do what he did.

WWE Chairman Mr. McMahon seemed to deny any involvement in the incident, demanding to know why SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long "double-crossed Undertaker". As a result, Long was forced to come before the WWE Universe and take responsibility. Long admitted the entire incident was “pre-planned” to prevent Undertaker from becoming champion. The apprehensive GM reminded the fans that Scott Armstrong and CM Punk were also involved, before inferring that his job was on the line as well. He apologized to all, asking for The Deadman’s forgiveness. Full results.

source: wwe.com

TNA Rehires Two Backstage Agents

Prowrestling.net is reporting that TNA Wrestling has rehired Pat Kenney (aka Simon Diamond) and D'Lo Brown as backstage agents. Both men had served as agents in the past for TNA. They are both expected to start at this Sunday's "No Surrender" PPV in Orlando. TNA cut B.G. James and Jim Cornette just a few days ago and both had been previously serving as agents in the company.

Q&A with Shane Douglas

Judge Rules for WWE Against Warrior

According to Pwinsider.com, the lawsuit that Warrior had filed against WWE back in January of 2006, in regards to the Self Destruction of The Ultimate Warrior DVD is over. Judge Douglas L. Rayes ruled that Warrior could not sue for damages over WWE's comments about him on the DVD. Warrior filed the claim stating that the DVD violated a March 2000 Settlement Agreement between WWE and Ultimate Creations Inc, which is Warrior's Arizona corporation. That agreement allowed WWE to use footage of Warrior, but that Warrior owned the rights and trademarks to the Ultimate Warrior character and could use them in any future venue as he decreed. It was also agreed that both parties would "not disparage each other". WWE agreed to pay $890,000 to Warrior's Ultimate Creations as part of the settlement agreement. The case had been dragging on, and during appearances, it was found that Warrior made "publicly disparaging claims" against WWE. It was ruled that Warrior himself breached the deal, and that he was not legally able to receive damages for the same thing he accused WWE of.

Interview with Mike Adamle

This Day in Wrestling History

Fabulous Moolah defeated Judy Grable in a tournament final for the WWF(E) Women's title.
September 18, 1956

AWA Tag Team title declared vacant due to Ken Patera's injury.
September 18, 1989

Ricky Steamboat surrenders the WCW U.S. Heavyweight title to Steve Austin due to injury.
September 18, 1994

America's Most Wanted (Chris Harris & James Storm) defeat Brian Lee & Ron Harris for the NWA World Tag Team Titles, marking their first reign as tag champs in TNA.
September 18, 2002

September 17, 2009

A Conversation with Claudio Castagnoli

TNA iMPACT! Recap 09/17/09

WWE Superstars Results: Point Made, Message Sent

Finlay may like to fight, but it seems like Dolph Ziggler likes to win just that much more. It wasn’t an easy victory by any means for the Hollywood, FL, native, but he withstood The Belfast Brawler’s brutal punishment, and when the moment was right, set the wheels in motion. As the referee discarded of Finlay’s shillelagh that had inadvertently been kicked into the center of the ring, the No. 1 contender to the Intercontinental Title raked The Irishman’s eyes and nailed the Zig Zag for the pin. Full results.

source: wwe.com

Will WWE Be Hurt By CEO's Exit?

Ted DiBiase: Living Legacy

Jon Robinson: The new "WWE Smackdown vs Raw 2010" game lets you create your own storyline. If you could write your own future in the business, what would it be?

Ted DiBiase: I want to defeat The Undertaker at WrestleMania and break his streak. That would be my ultimate storyline.

Jon Robinson: That would take The Undertaker's story full circle since your dad is the one who introduced him back in the day.

Ted DiBiase: Exactly.

source: espn.com

Click here for the full interview.

Muscle Flex to Seek All Infringment Damages Against WWE

This Day in Wrestling History

Happy Birthday to Masa Chrono
September 17, 1963

Ric Flair defeated Dusty Rhodes for the NWA Heavyweight Wrestling title.
September 17, 1981

Nikita Koloff defeated Tully Blanchard for the NWA Television title.
September 17, 1987

Booker T defeated Kevin Nash for the WCW Heavyweight title.
September 17, 2000

Brock Lesnar defeated Kurt Angle for the WWE Smackdown Heavyweight title.
September 17, 2003

September 16, 2009

Triple H to Make Ring Walk with Floyd Mayweather

Triple H, will be accompanying a familiar face to WWE fans to a huge PPV main event this Saturday night.

"The Game" is apparently going to be walking to the ring with Floyd Mayweather Jr. for his fight with Juan Manual Marquez during the main event of Saturday night's HBO boxing PPV, which also features fights from top stars such as Zab Judah and Rocky Juarez.

Mayweather stated, "[Triple H] is one of the greatest guys in the world." The praise continued with, "it'd be an honor to have him by my side."

HHH responded with, "It is an honor to walk the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world back into the ring. Floyd 'Money' Mayweather has shown WWE tremendous support and it is my pleasure to return the favor this Saturday by standing at his side as he defeats Marquez in what I am sure will be boxing's fight of the year."

This isn't the first time this has happened recently, as "The Animal" Batista walked to the ring with Manny Pacquaio for his impressive one-round knockout of Ricky "Hitman" Hatton back in May...More?

source: thesweetscience.com

Linda McMahon's Campaign Video

Linda McMahon has posted her campaign video on her website linda2010.com.

Miami-Dade Finalist to Land WrestleMania in 2011 or 2012

Miami-Dade Sports Commission officials should learn within a month whether they've locked in World Wrestling Entertainment's WrestleMania for 2011 or 2012.

The annual five-day showcase's estimated impact is $50 million in direct spending alone, at marquee venues including the Miami Beach Convention Center, AmericanAirlines Arena and LandShark Stadium.

"There's so much power behind it — it's the size basically of a Super Bowl," said José "Pepe" Diaz, sports...More?

source: miamitodaynews.com

WWE Breaks New Ground But Revisits Old

Borrowing from TNA's hugely successful all-cage match Lockdown event, Vince McMahon's company are starting to introduce shows where the headline bouts are all under variations on a gimmick...More?

source: the sun

Linda McMahon Resigns to Run for the Senate

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. today announced that Linda McMahon has stepped down as Chief Executive Officer after announcing her candidacy for the United States Senate, representing the state of Connecticut. Vince McMahon assumes the duties of Chief Executive Officer in addition to his current position as WWE® Chairman. McMahon will be supported by the seasoned executive management team already in place and led by Chief Operating Officer and board member, Donna Goldsmith.

source: wwe.corporate.com

Maybe A Bit Jealous?

G4's X-Play did an interview wit Matt Hardy where he makes a slight reference to Triple H. He was asked what kind of story he's going to create in the new story creator feature. He said that he'd have his character marry the boss' daughter so he could have full control of the show, and make it the best show possible.

source: wrestlezone.com

September 15, 2009

ECW Results: Zack Ryder No. 1 Contender

Zack Ryder earned his chance at ECW gold Tuesday night, besting nine other Extreme Superstars: Tommy Dreamer, Goldust, Tyler Reks, Yoshi Tatsu, Shelton Benjamin, Ezekiel Jackson, Vladimir Kozlov, Paul Burchill and Sheamus. One by one, Ryder watched as his opponents were tossed over the top rope, oftentimes merely staying out of harm’s way. But as the final four competitors faced off, Ryder eliminated Goldust to whittle his opponents down to two. Then, Dreamer assisted Kozlov over the ropes, leading to Ryder’s chance to capitalize on the situation. The ECW Original’s back was turned and Ryder tossed Dreamer over, becoming the new No. 1 contender to the ECW Championship. Full results.

source: wwe.com

TNA Releases Two Talents

According to PWR, Jim Cornette and Brian "Road Dog" Armstrong have been release from the company as of Tuesday afternoon. Cornette had an on camera role and Armstrong was a backstage agent and House Show agent for the company.

ROH on HDNet Results 09/14/09

Former WWE Superstar to Donate his Brain for Research

Former WWE Superstar “The Promise” Antonio Thomas, is combining brains with brawn—literally. Thomas is the latest professional wrestler to donate his brain to concussion research.

The Sports Legacy Institute (SLI), founded by former WWE wrestler Chris Nowinski and Dr. Robert Cantu, is the recipient of Thomas’s donation, which is part of an effort to further understand concussions and their effect on the brain...More?

Court Date for Jeff Hardy

Jeff Hardy's first court hearing stemming from his September 11th arrest for drug trafficking will take place on Wednesday morning, September 30th. It is believed that the drug trafficking charges brought against Hardy are a result of the sheer quantity of drugs found at his home. Should Hardy be able to provide a legitimate prescription for some or all the painkillers found, those charges could be reduced or dropped entirely.

The day of his arrest, Hardy promised to make a statement regarding the situation, but since then his comments have been limited to thanking his fans for their support on Twitter.

source: sescoops.com

Charges Dropped Against Kurt Angle

Professional wrestler and Olympic gold medalist Kurt Angle has been cleared of charges of violating a protection from abuse order and possession of human growth hormone.

Angle was arrested last month in suburban Pittsburgh. His girlfriend, Trenesha Biggers, had obtained a protection order after the two had fought....More?

source: philly.com

"Hulkamania" Australia Tour with Former WWE Talent

Shannon Moore, Umaga, Ken Anderson and Val Venis have been confirmed for the tour. Ric Flair is in talks with the promotion.

Interview with R-Truth

R-Truth has a unique character that connects with the audience on an intimate level. He makes his way to the ring through the audience performing his own entrance theme: What's up. The entrance allows fans to get up close and personal and feel part of the show, something that can be difficult in an arena or stadium.

"My character is something that a lot of people would love to have. It gives the fans the opportunity to participate and be involved. A lot of people when they see R-Truth they see themselves. They see a normal guy that was hit by circumstances in life, overcame that, got stuff together and went down the right road. A lot of people can relate to that and my support comes from it."...More?

source: slam wrestling

September 14, 2009

The Next Guest Host of Raw is.....

Cedric the Entertainer

NFL Pros to Contribute to Concussion Study

Three NFL players announced Monday they will donate their brains and spinal cord tissue to a Boston University medical school program that studies sports brain injuries.

Even though dozens of former NFL players have agreed to donate their brains after death, Baltimore Ravens center Matt Birk, Seattle Seahawks linebacker Lofa Tatupu and Arizona Cardinals receiver Sean Morey are the first active players to do so.

The goal of the university's Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy, a collaborative venture between BU Medical School and Sports Legacy Institute (SLI), is to better understand the long-term effects of repeated concussions. Former WWE superstar Chris Nowinski is the co-director of SLI...More?

source: associated press

Linda McMahon to Make Senate Run Announcement Soon

World Wrestling Entertainment CEO Linda McMahon appears primed to run for Senate in Connecticut and should make an announcement very soon, according to sources with knowledge of her deliberations.

“A decision is imminent, and she will likely make a decision over the next couple of days,” said a Republican strategist. “It will be made sooner rather than later.”

One well-placed source said McMahon is “99 percent” in. Another said the announcement could come as early as Wednesday...More?

source: thehill.com

Krystal Marshal Speaks Out on Racism in the WWE

In an interview with Diva-Dirt.com, former WWE Diva Krystal Marshall described the "morally degrading" storyline that made her quit WWE and what she feels were racist comments by a top member of WWE's creative team. Marshall said that her path to exiting WWE began with the Teddy Long wedding storyline. Stephanie McMahon assured her the storyline would be done in a tasteful way, but Michael Hayes told her it would be raunchy, which she was very against. Marshall said Hayes didn’t treat her boyfriend Bobby Lashley well and that Hayes actually said he doesn’t like Lashley “or anyone that looks like him.” She said she knew if she didn’t do the storyline she would lose her job, but she was not going to do something she was uncomfortable with. When asked about Bobby Lashley's departure from the company, she said Lashley literally walked away from millions of dollars because the problems in the company outweighed the money. She says Michael Hayes made blatant racist comments to Lashley and told Lashley outright that he didn't like him.

This Day in Wrestling History

Vince McMahon, with help from Stone Cold Steve Austin, defeats Triple H for WWF(E) Title.
September 14, 1999

September 13, 2009

Heartbreaking Results

In a shocking upset, Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase locked Shawn Michaels in a torturous double-team submission maneuver and forced The Heartbreak Kid to tap out in a punishing Submissions Count Anywhere Match that both sides will be feeling the effects of for weeks to come...More?

source: wwe.com