David Vaughn knows the adulation of NBA crowds. He also knows the humbling task of maneuvering his 6-foot-9 frame into his Chevy Impala to sleep.
Less than a decade after the end of a four-season NBA career, the former power forward spent six months on the streets of Orlando, Fla., having run through the $2.2 million he earned in the league. These days, the 36-year-old Vaughn is looking for a job in Orlando, where he spent two seasons playing for the Magic...More?
source: foxsports.com
October 31, 2009
Long Fall From Riches to Rags for Ex-NBA Player Vaughn
This Day in Wrestling History
Mitsuharu Misawa defeated Kenta Kobashi for the All-Japan Triple Crown.
October 31, 1998
Ivory defeated Lita for the WWF Women's title.
October 31, 2000
October 30, 2009
SmackDown Results: SmackDown for Survival
Following a controversial victory by The SmackDown Seven this past Sunday, co-captains Jericho and Kane both attempted to collect a golden opportunity from their SmackDown General Manager. As a result, Theodore Long announced that the two Superstars would face each other, with the winner being inserted into the World Title Match at Survivor Series between World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker and Big Show.
When the smoked cleared at the end of the night, it was the first-ever Undisputed WWE Champion who reigned supreme over The Big Red Machine, executing the Codebreaker as Kane was descending from the top rope. The huge victory propelled Jericho into an explosive Triple Threat World Heavyweight Championship Match at Survivor Series. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Sports & Entertainment & More…
Professional Wrestling is not “just” sports/athletic contest to determine who is ultimately “better”, nor “simply” escapist entertainment, (nor a definitive “morality play”). Professional Wrestling presents an epic battle between almost mythical personas, partly human and partly immortal; a battle that is intense and primal, violent and vicious, at times funny and at times tragic – yet ultimately irresolvable and perpetual, stubbornly refusing to provide a simple “answer” as is common in other forms of sports and entertainment – reaching to the depths of our psyches, and our innermost secret fears and desires.
Understanding the power of Wrestling from this vantage point, ring characters such as Triple H, Randy Orton, Sting, Awesome Kong, Beth Phoenix – and their peers and the many who paved the way for them – are much more than athletes and entertainers; they are closer to living depictions of the Greek gods and goddesses (or Jungian archetypes); who may be seen live, on TV or in PPV’s; and are neither limited to seasonal competition nor restricted to a particular television or movie production. They compete, they entertain, and they psychologically entrance week after week, day after day...More?
source: Dr. David Reiss @ caulifloweralleyclub.org
DX Invasion Tour
Nov 5 WWE RAW Presents DX Invasion Tour - Glasgow, Scotland
Nov 6 WWE RAW Presents DX Invasion Tour - Newcastle, England
Nov 7 WWE RAW Presents DX Invasion Tour - Butlins, Minehead
Nov 8 WWE RAW Presents DX Invasion Tour - Liverpool, England
Nov 9 WWE Presents RAW - Sheffield, England
Nov 10 WWE RAW Presents DX Invasion Tour - Cardiff, Wales
Nov 11 WWE RAW Presents DX Invasion Tour - London, England
Nov 12 WWE RAW Presents DX Invasion Tour - Birmingham, England
Talking Evil With Father James Mitchell
ust a day away from Halloween, there is no telling what kind of ghouls and goblins will be lurking in the shadows. But fear not, because many of the world's evil-doers are already preoccupied with their day jobs as pro wrestlers, where they can haunt us year round. James Mitchell can personally attest to this, as he's managed several of them. After all, it takes evil to know evil...More?
source: slam wrestling
Kofi Kingston Explains Why He Lost the Accent
"I was actually born in Ghana, West Africa," Kingston said. "As far as the whole Jamaican thing is actually concerned, growing up I actually loved everything about Jamaica. I loved the food, the culture, the laid-back attitude. When I came to the WWE initially I wanted to come out to something that attributed both my love for wrestling and the Jamaican heritage."
"I wanted to come out to something unique and something people had never seen before. But at a certain point it becomes about being real and true to yourself, as opposed to playing a character. You look at guys like Triple H. When he first started out he was Hunter Hearst Helmsley and before that he was Terra Ryzing - I don't know if a lot of people know that."
"Stone Cold Steve Austin was Stunning Steve Austin before he became Stone Cold. The Rock was Rocky Maivia before he became The Rock. Shawn Michaels was a Rocker before he became the Heartbreak Kid. I think in wrestling and the WWE you see a trend of guys who make transitions. And I think for me I'm in that transition stage into coming into my own."...More?
source: skysports.com
He's not sure if people know that Triple H used to be called Terra Ryzing?...Wow!
Tara vs. Alissa Flash from TNA iMPACT! 10/29/09
What is wrong with TNA? Why won't they let Alissa Flash win a match? Once again they aren't utilizing they talnet that they have.
October 29, 2009
WWE Superstars Results: Can’t Hide the Truth
The Hart Dynasty and R-Truth may have stood together victorious as part of Team SmackDown at WWE Bragging Rights, but on “WWE Superstars,” Friday night’s rapping Superstar denied David Hart Smith & Tyson Kidd the opportunity to achieve victory again. For the last several weeks, Cryme Tyme and The Hart Dynasty have proven to be evenly matched, and it was the variable of their partners that tipped the scales in one team’s favor on this time. In the end, Truth’s speed and agility were too much, allowing him to pick up the pin over Kidd and have his hand raised with Cryme Tyme. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Lenny Montana Was A Wrestler Before He Died So Well in "The Godfather"
A memorable death scene has been a staple of stage and screen through the years, from Hamlet to Darth Vader. And it's not much of a leap to say one of the greatest death scenes ever was hitman Luca Brasi's strangulation in The Godfather. But did you know Brasi was played by ex-wrestler Lenny Montana?
The story of Montana's switch to acting and the death scene are equally fascinating -- far more than his professional wrestling career...More?
source: slam wrestling
New Wrestling Book: "Worker: Last of A Dying Breed"
Brian Logan has just finished his new autobiography, Worker: Last of A Dying Breed, that follows his life from growing up in a small West Virginia town to the ring at Smoky Mountain Wrestling, and the bright lights of WCW & WWF. Brian speaks candidly about Fayette county WV politics, Child hood issues, being shot by his father, and also winning major championships in pro wrestling. Follow his travels through all of the great remaining territories in the 90's and he also covers the complete history of pro wrestling in the state of WV. Worker also compiles many dates and facts about Brian Logan's legal trials. This book Worker is a must read for wrestling fans and West Virginian alike. Forward by Jim Cornette. Logan has also launched a new website logansworldonline.com . Logan's World Online is the new home for everything about Brian Logan. Worker: Last of a Dying Breed can be purchased on logansworldonline.com , and available on amazon.com in December.
source: wrestleview.com
Another Raw Guest Host Confirmed
WWE has confirmed that boxer Ricky Hatton will be the special guest host of the November 9 Raw show in Sheffield, England. Click here for more information.
Let the Hearings Begin
The Congressional hearings on NFL brain injuries that begin today should be fascinating, gruesome, and possibly momentous. Concern about injuries is nearly as old as football itself in this country. Even casual fans likely know that the NCAA was created in 1905 after President Theodore Roosevelt himself declared that the game had become too brutal. The new rules (including legalization of the forward pass) that were instituted for the 1906 season did not in fact make football less dangerous, but the game has survived for more than a century despite periodic outbreaks of concern about injuries...More?
source: washington post
October 28, 2009
Update on WWE Announcers
The new announcer on last night's edition of ECW was Byron Saxton. Saxton is a WWE developmental talent that has been working in Florida Championship Wrestling. While WWE awaits news on the future of Smackdown announcer Jim Ross, the company has decided to replace him for the time being with Matt Striker.
Jim Ross Comments on the So-Called "New Monday Night Wars"
It amazes me that many fans are so obsessed with "Monday Night Wars" and one brand over taking another, etc type discussions. Firstly, I do wholeheartedly agree that competition is great for every business, without question. But every company that spends more time ragging on the "competition" or fixating on putting another company down is not focusing on their own brand. Today's wrestling business needs to simply focus on how THEY can improve what THEY do and not seemingly and endlessly focus on the "other guys" whoever the "other guys" may be...More?
source: jrsbarbq.com
I couldn't agree more. It always amazed me that TNA would waste their airtime talking about or vaguely referencing the WWE. You would never hear TNA mentioned on a WWE broadcast - not intentionally anyway. I also think TNA should put more emphasis on their own talent (AJ Styles, Beer Money, Motor City Machine Guns, etc.) instead of picking up all the scraps from the WWE. Vince has been critized for only backing stars he creates; however if TNA had the same attitude they would be much father ahead then they are now.
This Day in Wrestling History
Arn Anderson and Sid Vicious are involved in a brawl at their hotel which sees Anderson rushed to the hospital for 20 stab wounds from a pair of scissors, and Vicious with four puncture wounds.
October 28, 1993
October 27, 2009
ECW Results: Christian Retains
Despite an excellent showing from his opponent, Yoshi Tatsu, Christian successfully defended his ECW Title. But their mutual show of respect didn't last long before being brutally assaulted by William Regal and his Ruthless Roundtable. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Kofi Kingston Soars to New Heights
Kofi Kingston had a very good night on Monday’s episode of Raw. The high-flyer took a giant leap up the totem pole by first defeating Chris Jericho, and then working an angle with WWE’s top heel, Randy Orton. In the latter, Kingston demonstrated that he has the ability to speak well and project intensity. I see now why WWE had him drop the Jamaican accent.
Judging by Monday’s show, which saw Kingston destroy a new NASCAR car with Orton’s likeness on it that had been given to Orton by Ted DiBiase Jr. and Cody Rhodes, it appears as if Kingston will be wrestling Orton at the Survivor Series pay-per-view in Washington next month.
WWE desperately needs to get new faces in the mix at the top of the card, and Kingston is a great choice. He is easily is the most popular and charismatic of the mid-carders. If Kingston ends up becoming a bona fide main-eventer, this show will be remembered as a turning point in his career.
source: baltimore sun
Triple H Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records
Triple H is listed the new edition of Guinness World Records. The 2010 edition of the book noted the following regarding the WWE Superstar: "One male wrestler has won the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) championship on 8 occasions: Triple H (USA, Paul Levesque) took the title between 1999 and 2008."
Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff are TNA Bound
According to multiply reports, Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff have struck a deal with TNA Wrestling. Hogan plans on making the announcement at his press conference today.
Mickie James Launching a New Career Outside WWE
WWE Diva Mickie James has signed with Nashville management company Skyline Management Group for management of her country music venture. Click here for more info.
This Day in Wrestling History
Tito Santana & Rick Martel defeated the Hart Foundation for the WWF(E) Tag Team title.
October 27, 1987
Brian Pillman defeated Richard Morton in a tournament final to become the first WCW World Light Heavyweight Champion.
October 27, 1991
Shawn Michaels defeated Davy Boy Smith for the WW(E)F Intercontinental title.
October 27, 1992
Scott Hall & Kevin Nash defeated Harlem Heat for the WCW Tag Team title.
October 27, 2001
October 26, 2009
Raw Results: The Fast & The Spurious
After Big Show’s selfish betrayal of Team Raw the night before at WWE Bragging Rights, the Raw roster was only too happy to involve themselves during Show’s match with Triple H – thanks to Raw’s special guest hosts, the bout was now a No Disqualification Lumberjack Match with a special guest referee: WWE Champion John Cena!
Surrounded by a battery of Superstars ready to punish him, Show lashed out and attacked his brand mates. The show of force, however, would prove futile. A barrage of Raw Superstars exploded on Show until finally The Game also unleashed his considerable anger over the events the night before on his opponent, emerging with a satisfying victory.
As Triple H celebrated with Shawn Michaels and The Champ by his side, Raw special guest hosts Kyle Busch and Joey Logano surfaced to throw up a caution flag. The two clued in the WWE Universe on who would face Cena at Survivor Series: The Champ must face Triple H and HBK in a Triple Threat WWE Title Match. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Sheamus Traded to Raw
From wwe.com:
Raw sure knows how to pick ‘em. The brand’s latest acquisition, Sheamus, lived up to his vicious reputation when he tangled with Jamie Noble. The Celtic Warrior downed the Southern Superstar as fast and fierce as a shot of Irish whiskey.
Update on Jim Ross' Medical Condition
"Today's MRI results were not what we had expected and we have more work to do. More tests resume tomorrow morning as the bumps in the road continue. I still remain confident that all these health issues will work out in due time. The road just got a little bumpier, or so it seems, for now, but that's when people roll up their sleeves and fight just a little harder.
It seems that my neurologist and the radiologist who read my MRI of my brain have differing opinions. So we start over to some degree Tuesday and in more intense detail to determine the answers we need to have to move forward."
source: jrsbarbq.com
Update on Cena Bleeding During the Iron Man Match
It's being reported that there was never any intention on WWE's part for John Cena to bleed during last night's Bragging Rights PPV. Cena was legitimately busted open the hard way, and when it happened, it's being said that Vince McMahon began to panic back stage, and he ordered that Cena be cleaned up immediately which is why the clock was stopped during the bout.
Because of WWE's strict "no-blood" policy due to their TV PG rating, Vince made the decision to have Cena treated during the bout as opposed to after so that WWE could avoid any issues with upset fans. Furthermore, it's being said Cena and Orton were supposed to work part of the match in the crowd, however that idea was nixed during the bout as Vince wanted to avoid a situation where Cena could have possibly bled on a fan. If that were to happen, WWE could have faced serious consequences from the state Athletic Commission which could in turn hurt Linda McMahon's senate campaign.
source: pwinsider.com
WrestleMania Makes Close to $50 Million for Host City
World Wrestling Entertainment® announced today that The 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania generated a $49.8 million dollar economic windfall for the greater Houston area, according to a study conducted by the Enigma Research Corporation. Despite one of the biggest economic downturns in recent history, local and state governments collected $5.7 million in taxes. This follows the $51.5 million of economic impact WrestleMania XXIV brought to Orlando...More?
October 25, 2009
WWE Bragging Rights Results
Dark Match
Christian defeated Paul Burchill
United States Champion The Miz vs. Intercontinental Champion John Morrison
Winner: The Miz
SmackDown Divas vs. Raw Divas Tag Team Match
Winners: Team SmackDown
World Heavyweight Champion The Undertaker vs. CM Punk vs. Batista vs. Rey Mysterio (Fatal Four Way Match)
Winner: The Undertaker
SmackDown vs. Raw Tag Team Match
Winners: Team SmackDown
WWE Champion Randy Orton vs. John Cena (One Hour, Anything Goes WWE Iron Man Match)
Winner: John Cena - New WWE Champion
SmackDown Proves Better Than Raw
In the first-ever WWE Bragging Rights Tag Team Match, Team SmackDown emerged victorious when co-captain and Unified Tag Team Champion Chris Jericho pinned Kofi Kingston.
The tag team victory proved to be pivotal for SmackDown, allowing the blue brand to break the 1-1 tie with Raw on the night and take home the coveted WWE Bragging Rights trophy.
But, the tag team victory came via perhaps one of the biggest betrayals in WWE history when Unified Tag Team Champion Big Show turned his back on Team Raw by chokeslamming Kingston, setting him up for the pinfall by Jericho. The World's Largest Athlete also turned the tables on Triple H by dropping him with a brutal punch to the head.
source: wwe.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Ivory defeated The Fabulous Moolah for the WWF(E) Women's title and Bret Hart defeated Goldberg for the WCW US Heavyweight title.
October 25, 1999
October 24, 2009
Stephanie McMahon Comments on Her Direction of the Writing Team
Q. You've taken a lot of flak over the years for the role you play on the WWE writing team. Does it bother you?
A. It used to . . . But I decided that people are going to think whatever they want to think. I try to do the best I can do. I don't read the dirt sheets at all anymore: they used to really bother me. But the numbers - live event attendances, TV ratings -- they tell me what I'm doing right and wrong. We're lucky in that way: we have a focus group in every town we go to every night, so if something's not working, we find out quickly and we can change it. We could be heading in the wrong direction and then completely change it.
source: powerslam magazine
Triple H on Retirement and Backstage Power
Q. You've been on top for a decade. Now 40, you're married with two children. Do thoughts of retirement ever cross your mind?
A. Sure. I've always said that I won't be one of those guys still wrestling at 50 or 60 like (Randy 'The Ram' Robinson) in (The Wrestler). I look at the business now from the other side and, if I was Vince McMahon, I'd know when to tell me to step away. Right now, the talent's not there: there is no depth. But, yeah, I do think about retiring: wrestling isn't the only thing iny my life, like it was when I broke in. If my family asked me to give up wrestling tomorrow, I'd do it in a heartbeat for them, and I'd never look back.
Q. Plenty of people say you use your backstage position and your marriage to your advantage --- even that you abuse the power you have. How do you respond to that? And does criticism bother you?
A. People say the power I have puts me in a position of dominance but, if I lost that power, I'd be quite happy. It's all about what benefits the business for me. As for criticism? I think that if you go through life and no one hates you, then that means you're not good at anything. The critics I listen to are the ones I can hear when I walk into the arena. When people aren't caring about me anymore, I'll know. Not even Vince deems that: fans deem that. Look at John Cena. People say, "Why does Vince push him so much?" He sells so much (merchandise) and he sells out arenas. It's all about what benefits the business.
source: powerslam magazine
It's All About The Game and How You Play It
Dubcnn.com is reporting that the rapper The Game (Jayceon Taylor) has dropped the "The" from his stage name and will now be known as "Game".
The WWE challenged Jayceon Taylor using the moniker "The Game" as they claim they used it first and have the rights to it. Let's review our history:
- 1. Taylor claims that his grandmother gave him the nickname because she said he always had "game".
- 2. As best as my research can tell, the first professional use by Taylor of the moniker The Game is 2004. He apparently had some mix tapes released, but I've found no proof that he was using this moniker. Those tapes were released sometime between 2001 and 2004.
- 3. Taylor has also used the monikers Hurricane Game and Chuck Taylor.
- 4. Hunter has been using The Game as one of his nicknames since 1999.
MWF Issues Statement on the Passing of Shiloh Pepin (Mermaid Girl)
You always hate to get “that phone call.” I’m extremely sorry to report that Shiloh Pepin (known as “Mermaid Girl” from Discovery Channel and TLC documentaries as well as an appearance on Oprah last month) passed away earlier today at ten years of age. Usually, October 23rd is a celebration of sorts for the “vets” of the late Tony Rumble’s Century Wrestling Alliance - it was sixteen years ago today Tony ran his first live event. Shiloh had taken ill earlier in the week. We were looking forward to seeing the entire Pepin family on November 14th at ROAD TO THE GOLD.
The little girl and her family touched many lives here in the Millennium Wrestling Federation...More?
Amazing night for Shiloh Pepin
Mixed Martial Arts Readies for First Legal Event in Maryland
Last summer, Columbia native Ryan Mackin flew to Thailand to find an opponent he could legally punch, kick, elbow and knee.
This month, he'll hardly have to leave home.
"I had to take a 30-hour flight to Thailand for my last fight," said Mackin, who is fighting this weekend in the first legal mixed martial arts event in Maryland history. "It means a great deal to me that I'm able to wake up and take a cab to my next fight."
Mackin, 27, a wrestling coach at Hammond High School, in Columbia, is one of 22 fighters competing Oct. 24 at 1st Mariner Arena, in Baltimore.
The card, promoted by Shogun Fights, is the result of a multiyear struggle to legalize the sport once derided by U.S. Sen. John McCain as "human cockfighting." The sport is now legal and regulated by athletic commissions in 40 states.
Mixed martial arts is banned in New York and West Virginia and unregulated in the other eight.
Baltimore native John Rallo has emerged as the face of mixed martial arts in Maryland. He runs the state's best known school, Ground Control -- which recently opened a new location in Columbia -- and led the charge to get the sport legalized...More?
source: columbia flier
This Day in Wrestling History
Nick Bockwinkel & Ray Stevens defeated Crusher & Billy Robinson for the AWA Tag Team title.
October 24, 1974
Ernie Ladd defeated Magnum T.A. for the Mid-South North American Heavyweight title.
October 24, 1984
Don Muraco defeated Jimmy Snuka for the ECW Heavyweight title.
October 24, 1992
Bill Goldberg defeated Sid to win the WCW U.S. title for the second time.
October 24, 1999
October 23, 2009
SmackDown Results: Battle Before the War
The odds were stacked against World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker from the start. In CM Punk’s corner were referee Scott Armstrong and SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long, setting the stage for a repeat of what transpired at WWE Breaking Point. However, the champion took matters into his own hands to keep his coveted gold. After chokeslamming Armstrong and escaping Punk’s deadly Anaconda Vise, The Phenom locked The Straightedge Superstar in Hell’s Gate, forcing him to submit. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Bull Pain Speaks...Loudly
Bull Pain has over twenty years of ring wars and the scars and bloodshed to prove that he has been here, there and everywhere in between. Pain got his start in wrestling as a young Rick Gantner, martial arts enthusiast and amateur boxer who had his life changed forever after seeing an AWA show that included the likes of The Crusher and "Superstar" Billy Graham. Gantner would quickly become Bull Pain while working in the Global Wrestling Federation and would be forever solidified during a run with Ian Rottens I.W.A. hardcore wrestling federation. Examiner.com talked with Bull about his career, his future and what the future of wrestling holds.
Q. You stated that you think Triple H will be the one to start a new era for wrestling, now that Shane is leaving the WWE, do you think that gives Triple H even more of an advantage to take the business in a new direction?
A. Well, I think in a few years this will happen because by then Paul will be tired of working every night and his body, like all of ours, tells us when it's time to be behind the scenes and not always in front of the curtain. I think that he knows what the business needs and I think that he might actually try and take it back to where it is more of a sporting event than a carnival. Cross your fingers!...More?
Change for Team SmackDown
Matt Hardy, R-Truth, The Hart Dynasty & Finlay beat Drew McIntyre, Eric Escobar, JTG & Dolph Ziggler to take their places on Team SmackDown at Bragging Rights. The new team will join Chris Jericho, Kane & Shad to face Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Big Show, Cody Rhodes, Jack Swagger, Kofi Kingston & Mark Henry, who makeup Team Raw.
Nigel McGuinness Disputes Earlier Reports
The Daily Star in the UK is featuring an interview with former ROH star Nigel McGuinness - now known as Desmond Wolfe in TNA. McGuinness comments on reports that the reason he didn't sign with the WWE is that he failed the medical screening.
"I had a clean bill of health from my orthopaedic guy and my local doctor, so it's not about that. I don’t hold against anything against them, it was a business decision, and they were only doing what they think is best for them. As for me, I am very eager to prove my worth. It means so much to me that Dixie, Terry and Kurt have faith in me, in my vocation and my work. I will repay that faith."
Dolph Ziggler's Assessment of the Triple H vs John Cena Match on Raw
"Well, it's two of the top guys in the business and it's something everyone wants to see," he began. "I think a huge part of that entire match was showing that John Cena can go in a long match with one of the best in the entire business. I think that match really showed two stars that stood out in terms of guys that can go, and it seemed like a warm-up for that 60-minute Iron Man match [between Cena and Randy Orton at Bragging Rights]. I think it was actually a really good move. It established those two top guys that they can go, if they have to go for a while."
source: slam wrestling
Triple H Comments on the Next Wave of WWE Superstars
Who do you regard as the next wave of headline-level talent in WWE?
Well CM Punk is obviously already on his way to becoming a big star. Jack Swagger, I like Sheamus. Evan Bourne is very good. Kofi Kingston. They are all moving up, but slowly, which is the right way.
Finally,are you mentoring any WWE wrestler in particular? And in who, do you see the most of young Triple H?
The closest to me is probably Sheamus, because we always train together on the road. But I try to watch all the young guys' matches and give them advice, if they want to hear it. If they take advice to heart and really want to improve, then I'm willing to help. As for seeing some of myself in someone? That's tough. Sheamus just the other day showed up at a show he didn't have to be at. He does whatever he's asked to do without complaining, he goes to every show and is always wanting to work. He does is all, goes above and beyond. That's what I was like.
source: powerslam magazine
Formula One to the WWE
The next act of Kyle Busch fascination will take place this Monday night when he, and Joe Gibbs Racing team mate Joey Logano, will be the official guest hosts on "Raw": World Wrestling Entertainment's wildly popular television program.
If the show follows its usual guest host format, then expect Busch and Logano to interact with the wrestlers both in and out of the ring. They will, seemingly, be in charge of setting up some special fan pleasing matches that is not expected to be very popular with some of the WWE super stars.
The NASCAR and WWE "Raw" connection is actually a very brilliant marketing move. Both organizations are wildly popular with massive fan bases that easily interacts with each other. There are already reports that states the two drivers will carry WWE logos on their race cars for the upcoming NASCAR Nationwide Series event at the Texas Motor Speedway. Busch's #18 Toyota will be sponsored by Z Line Designs/WWE while Logano's #20 will carry the logo Game Stop/"Raw" Versus "Smackdown" which is the other very popular WWE television program.
You can catch Busch/Logano live and in charge on "Raw" this Monday night at 9 pm eastern time on the USA Network...More?
source: whowon.com
This Day in Wrestling History
WWF(E) Champion Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair wrestle their first match in Dayton, Ohio. Flair wins via count out.
October 23, 1991
Paul Orndorff & Paul Roma defeated the Patriot & Marcus Bagwell for the WCW World Tag Team title.
October 23, 1994
Alundra Blaze defeated Bertha Faye for the WWF(E) Women's title.
October 23, 1995
Rodney "Yokozuna" Anoa'i died of a heart attack at age 34.
October 23, 2000
AJ Styles defeated Syxx-Pac for the NWA-TNA X title.
October 23, 2002
October 22, 2009
WWE Superstars Results: Something to Brag About
Though McIntyre and Escobar are relatively new to the SmackDown roster, the two young Superstars proved why they deserve to be on the Friday night team heading into this Sunday by defeating two notable opponents in Matt Hardy & R-Truth. Despite Hardy & Truth giving it their all, it was a distraction by Vickie Guerrero and a cheap shot by Escobar that made the difference, allowing McIntyre to hit a Double-Arm DDT on Matt and pick up the pin to earn his team the victory. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Jimmy Noonan on Shane McMahon
"The difference with Shane from the rest of the family is first of all, Shane is fearless. He's got a lot of entrepreneur in him, and watch this name...Dana White (UFC President) in him. But the thing about Shane is that Shane has street smarts. No one else in the family has the street smarts that Shane McMahon has." He went onto state that it was assumed that Shane would run the company some day. "Everything you read on the Internet in the last 20 years stated that Shane would eventually run the WWE. In the last five-to-six years, it became obvious that Shane was not going to run the company. Once Vince is gone, a girl named Stephanie & her husband Triple H were going to run the company."...More?
source: wrestleview.com
Shad Gaspard on Missing Smackdown
Shad Gaspard of WWE's Cryme Tyme tag team issued the following statement on his official MySpace page in regards to missing the Smackdown tapings this past Tuesday night in Columbia, SC:
"Ok before this thing gets out of hands let me set the record straight. This past Monday I got sick while traveling from Mexico to the US. On Tuesday my symptoms increased drastically to body pains, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. I tried several over the counter medicines that temporarily worked, but didn’t help in the long run.
Finally I went to or WWE doctor who prescribed to give me a shot of Phenergan, which should have worked. Unforchantly it made me drowsy and brought on cold chills. The office thought it best I leave than try to perform."...More?
Hulk Hogan Talks About Filming Rocky III with Sylvester Stallone, Contemplating Suicide, and Getting Hurt by The Undertaker Back in the 90s
Rumor Mill - AJ Styles & Samoa Joe Frustrated with TNA Booking
TNA Champion A.J. Styles let loose on creative team leader Vince Russo over booking matters. Styles was frustrated over "what he argued was dismal booking of him early in his run as champion," Wade Keller of pwtorch.com reported. Styles feels he's been made to look like a weak champion by Russo.
In related news, pwtorch.com also reports that Samoa Joe blew up at TNA management "for what he felt was a blow-off of a commitment to utilize a friend's business for catering at the pay-per-view over the weekend."...More?
This Day in Wrestling History
Shawn Michaels forfeited the WWF(E) Intercontinental title to Shane Douglas.
October 22, 1995
Kurt Angle defeated the Rock for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title.
October 22, 2000
October 21, 2009
Kevin Nash Breaks Character and Cuts a Promo on Chris Sabin's Injury
TNA wrestler Chris Sabin suffered a concussion at the Impact taping on Wednesday. He was working a tag match with Alex Shelley against Team 3D when he landed awkwardly while taking a move. A source reports that Sabin told people afterward he was out cold during the match, but he quickly regained his composure and somehow finished the match.
Kevin Nash interrupted and told production to edit his comments.He yelled at Team 3D for not aborting the planned finish because he felt Sabin's health should have been the first priority. He felt that as veterans, Brother Ray and Devon should have made that call on the fly. He also felt that someone from production could have given a cue to the referee to end the match.
source: prowrestling.net
Underestimating the Game: Triple H Unappreciated by WWE Fans
A commentary by Darius Brown:
Although Triple H has been in the wrestling business since 1992, it seems that people think that his dues started with a storyline marriage in 1999. They assumed that he slept his way to the top. Forgetting he already jobbed to the likes of Alex Wright, feuded with Duke "The Dumpster" Droese and had an embarrassing 20-second loss to a broken Ultimate Warrior.
Nobody was complaining about him then.
Is it because he has 13 world title victories? Probably, but why is that? Kurt Angle also has thirteen and is seen as a great champion. Triple H just slept his way to the top.
Edge has 12 in a span of 3 or 4 years. But Triple H needs to let others step up be the man now. What's up with this logic used by WWE fans. Although I am not a fan of his, you still have to respect The Game.
Where people think he's in it for himself, the truth is he's in it for the business. He eat, sleeps and breathes pro wrestling and always has what's best in mind. He goes over when it's right for business for him to win. He's not the glory hog people make him out to be.
Here's an image for you, think of WrestleMania the grandest stage of them all. Who's got the undefeated streak? Err no, not Triple H. In fact, he's made careers and added to other's legacy at WrestleMania. Check out his 'Mania history:
Wrestlemania XII - Jobbed to the Ultimate Warrior in 1:36
Wrestlemania XV - Lost to Kane by DQ
Wrestlemania XVII - Lost to Undertaker
Wrestlemania XX - Lost the belt clean to Chris Benoit
Wrestlemania 21 - Lost the belt to Batista
Wrestlemania 22 - Lost title match to John Cena
Wrestlemania XXIV - Lost title match to Randy Orton
The man's got a losing record at the industry's biggest event. What other top star can say that? Hogan, Taker, Cena, Edge? Nope...More?
source: hittheropes.com
Help From Friends and Family Got Gary Hart's Book to Market
For the last three years of his life, wrestling manager and booker Gary Hart labored over an autobiography entitled My Life in Wrestling: With a Little Help from My Friends.
The subtitle was more than appropriate. In the 18 months since Hart died unexpectedly at age 66, his friends -- particularly sons Jason and Chad Williams, and collaborator Philip Varriale -- worked to get his life story into print, and their activity has culminated with publication of the book...More?
source: slam wrestling
Update on Nigel McGuinness & Bryan Danielson
New TNA wrestler Nigel McGuinness told his new coworkers at the TNA Impact tapings that he was able to sign with the company because WWE took too long finalizing the contract. However, prowrestling.net has confirmed reports that he failed WWE's prescreening test. As such, WWE pulled their verbal offer and never offered him an actual contract.
Bryan Danielson will not be joining TNA. He is expected to begin working with WWE shortly. There was speculation in the TNA locker room yesterday that Danielson could be joining the company. However, that was fueled by Nigel McGuiness telling people that he was able to sign with TNA because WWE dragged their feet on signing him.
Recap of Edge on the 'Bubba the Love Sponge Show '
Edge called into the Bubba the Love Sponge Show yesterday and said the Achilles tendon tear he suffered back in July was the most painful injury of his career yet. He added he does not know yet when he will be able to return to the ring.
During his appearance, Bubba asked him when his contract with WWE expires, to which he replied next June. He said while he's a homegrown guy, "he likes competition." However, he then made sure to note that "WWE is the NFL of wrestling."
When asked about Shane McMahon leaving the company, he said he was really surprised. He said it's really hard to work with Vince McMahon and be his son at the same time.
Edge put over Christian, John Cena and Randy Orton. He said watching Orton is like watching a horror show, but in a good way. He also feels Cena is a workhorse and having Christian on ECW was a good move.
When asked to comment on former flame Lita, he simply said she's out of the business.
source: rajah.com
Japanese Veteran Ryuma Go Dead at Age 53
Ryuma Go (Hiroshi Yagi) died on the 18th in a Kanagawa hospital reportedly due to septicimia (blood poisoning). He was 53 years old.
According to Yomiuri Shimbun, a relative discovered Go last week in bad condition at his home. (The relative is believed to his his oldest daughter.) The front door was reportedly locked, so the relative got into the house through a window on the second floor and rushed Go to the hospital after he was discovered in bad condition. Go had reportedly been in an bicycle accident a few days ago (on the 7th) and had fractured his right wrist, with the area getting infected and the infection spreading throughout his body.
A funeral with approximately 30 wrestlers (led by Animal Hamaguchi & Goro Tsurumi) was performed on the 19th in Atsugi city in Kanagawa...More?
source: fightopinion.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Triple H defeated Marc Mero for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
October 21, 1996
Chris Jericho defeated The Rock for the WCW Heavyweight title.
October 21, 2001
Triple H simulated sex with a mannequin while dressed as Kane, in the infamous Katie Vick necrophilia skit.
October 21, 2002
October 20, 2009
ECW Results: Unwelcome Visitor
Yoshi Tatsu’s winning streak continued this week on ECW on Syfy. The Japanese Superstar was victorious over Zack Ryder, earning himself a future ECW Championship Match! Tatsu was overjoyed by his win over the brash, cocky, Long Island, N.Y.-bred Superstar, unabashedly celebrating while the WWE Universe in the Colonial Life Arena cheered. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Rumor Mill - Booker T's TNA Status
TNA will not be renewing Booker T's contract when it expires in November. There had been some talk that Dixie Carter would have a change of heart if Booker said the right things, but all indications are that his fate was sealed when he refused to do a job at the last Impact tapings.
source: prowrestling.net
Snoop Dogg Takes Malice to WWE
As Malice In Wonderland is set to drop December 8, what better of an opportunity and outlet than Raw for the rapper to expose fans to his upcoming project. The night was filled with the sounds of his track “Gangsta Love” featuring The Dream.
Recently, the WWE has broadened its audience and found a new way to appeal to fans by having guest hosts appear on the show. From Bob Barker to Floyd "Money" Mayweather to Al Sharpton, the wrestling universe has covered all aspects of the country.
Monday night exploded as a pink Cadillac rolled into the arena and rapper Snoop Dogg stepped out of the driver's seat as the guest host. Of course, being the Dogg, he was accompanied by a band of “groupies” as the Divas tagged along...More?
source: hiphopwired.com
Rumor Mill - Former ROH Wrestler TNA Bound?
*Possible spoiler*
Prowrestling.net is reporting that former Ring of Honor Champion Nigel McGuinness is backstage at the TNA taping in Orlando, Fla. Although Nigel and ROH officials indicated that he had agreed in principle with WWE, it appears he has opted to sign with TNA instead.
There has also been some buzz that Bryan Danielson might be TNA-bound as well, but nothing is official. The early talk is that WWE dragged its feet on signing the duo, so TNA swooped in and signed Nigel.
If this is true, I'm going to be sick...
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Scott Hall
October 20, 1959
WCW fired Bret Hart due to his incapacitating injury - Hart announced his retirement.
October 20, 2000
Triple H defeated Kane at No Mercy to unify the World Heavyweight Championship & Intercontinental Title. The IC Title would later be re-instated in May of 2003.
October 20, 2002
October 19, 2009
Scams & Shams: The Trouble with Social Networks and Impersonating Triple H
It's hard to understand who in their right mind would want to incur the wrath of "Triple H," the intimidating superstar of professional wrestling. But when a poser created a fraudulent MySpace account in Triple H's name, it wasn't the wrestler that the perpetrator had to contend with.
The smackdown came from someone who was actually watching the wrestler's back -- Lauren Dienes-Middlen. She's vice president of intellectual property at World Wrestling Entertainment, the Stamford, Conn., company that owns the trademark. WWE notified MySpace, which terminated the account immediately.
The growth of social networks has brought a variety of threats that can potentially damage a brand's good name...More?
source: idg
Tyler Reks Gets New Show on WWE Mobile
Tyler Reks is the latest WWE star to get his own show on WWE Mobile. The ECW star wrote the following note on his Twitter account this afternoon:
"Hey my peeps! Just got dialed in with my own show on WWE mobile. It's called "Reks in Effect". Should air this week - check it out!"
Raw Preview: Best of the Best
Two dominant Superstars will face off on the next Raw, as John Cena takes on Triple H less than a week before his One Hour, Anything Goes WWE Iron Man Match against WWE Champion Randy Orton at WWE Bragging Rights.
This Day in Wrestling History
Michael Hegstrand aka Hawk of the Road Warriors/Legion of Doom passed away in his sleep at age 46.
October 19, 2003
October 18, 2009
Kim Couture Confronts Tara at TNA's Bound for Glory; Appears to Be Storyline
Diva Dirt is reporting that MMA fighter and ex-wife of Randy, Kim Couture appeared moments ago at TNA’s Bound for Glory pay per view, interrupting the Knockouts Championship triple threat match.
Couture caught Lisa Marie Varon — TNA’s Tara – off guard during her match and the pair began getting into it near the ramp-way, having to be separated by security. Meanwhile in the ring, ODB and Kong watched on as the match was disrupted.
Pwinsider.com is reporting that it was shoot. This seems to be accurate as Jeremy Borash tweeted moments later "Tara and Kim Couture got into a fight during the Knockouts title match. More about this on Thursday."
J.R. Comments on Shane McMahon Resigning from the WWE
No website has any definitive news on why Shane McMahon resigned from his family's company, WWE, on Friday. Perhaps more news sites will elaborate on this matter come Monday as Friday is always the best day to drop big news as sometimes it gets somewhat lost on the weekend. Nonetheless no one knows why Shane seemingly abruptly decided to leave the family business and I don't feel that any one will know the reason until he declares what his next venture will be...I have always found it amazing when fans cannot understand when someone who is seemingly entrenched in the wrestling business decides to explore other opportunities. Both the Rock and Stone Cold have been dissed because they no longer have the desire to "wrestle" but have both said that they would be interested in making selected appearances at the right place and the right time. For some fans that isn't good enough. I admire "wrestlers" or "wrestling people" who want to explore other opportunities. Life cannot become one dimensional and one cannot allow their own lives to revolve around one, singular entity...More?
Sting Talks About Sunday's PPV and his Son Playing for Azusa Pacific
How much longer do you think you can wrestle?
Right now I honestly don’t know how to answer that question. There are so many things to consider that I haven’t thought about it. Sunday night will factor in.
Who do you see as the face of TNA five years from now?
Certainly my opponent on Sunday (Styles). There is so much talent in the company right now that it could be one of many young guys we have today. I’ve wrestled against guys like Samoa Joe and Matt Morgan who have shown they have what it takes to be at the top...More?
source: latimes.com
October 17, 2009
Chyna on the Warpath Again
Incoherent blog posts by Chyna on her official site:
October 8th
...p.s how do i block and unblock ppl on my cell?im sorry about ur unckle i dont have any family besides of honeysuckle and bambi and last gabi. and you stay in your pyramid when theres 9 call me ok? but shell answer ps in los angeles we do wear binikins. whenever we want to especially if we are not in wendys ok?...
October 12th
...Here are the facts. Yes, we were getting death threats and annoying calls for days and hours on end. yes, i had tried…now for 10 years to come to terms with WWE regarding my name, royalties, if any, etc. I have done more than my best and been very kind. After 10 years in Burbank, i have decided that lthough those that love me are now starting to be engaged because that’s how WWE works. Guess what/ I have no fear, and i don’t like a bully. Especially a corporate bully full of abuse and misuse. Could I have put it any more plainly or do i have to dress up as a blue blazer Sean Waltman DX Missing link ape when my name is punched in on the internet?...
October 13th
...Little did I know till this year while i was stuck inside a cement room in a building in NY with HHH dickhead saying, “hey bay, I’ll be right back to get ya, we’re having a really important meeting!!!!!!!! AT SCORES!!!!!! FUCK THE STRIPPERS OR WHAT YOU WERE DOING FOR OUR!!!! THAT INCLUDED ME TOO IN DX ASSHOLES!!!!!!!! I MISSED MY FAVORITE BAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!...
...LINDA, although you may have political aspirations……..please keep in mind, that as you keep people on the “killing in the name of….payroll” be sure to ask SEAN WALTMAN To drop off your fur coat at the cleaners on the way. (tip from me….) hee heeee, He will probably wash and dry it, wear it himself and spend the rest of his money on some kind of wierd shit I don’t even know...Hey! How about that wrestling reality show? I guess I must have done a suck it act at the Bunny Ranch…..they didn’t even introduce themselves and mr. Hof was such a graciou host to allow them to visit so i could get a job. Rude......and No I am not interested in the suitcase chopping up reality show!.......As A mater a fact you can buy Hollywood Vince...
There is more if you care to read it. It's more of the anti-WWE, anti-Hunter ranting that she has been doing for the past few years. She states at the end of her October 12th post that "the past is the past", but I guess it really isn't.
More on Shane McMahon Leaving WWE
Jerry Jarrett said in a "Torch Talk" years ago that he remembers a time where he had dinner with the entire McMahon family when Shane and Steph were teenagers. A comment was made about Shane taking over the family business some day and Stephanie interjecting, with a sense of entitlement and determination, that she, not Shane, would run WWE some day. I've heard similar stories over the years from others.
In other words, even when they were teenagers, Stephanie had her eye on running WWE some day. Shane, the less dominant personality, has always known he'd have competition for being the "next McMahon" to run WWE.
Maybe Shane wasn't pleased with Stephanie calling him out as being irresponsible, more interested in a night on the town than running WWE, as she recently did on Raw. As has been well-established over the years, a lot of what is said on WWE TV on any given week is an expression of Vince McMahon's feelings at that particular moment. Maybe Vince was sending Shane a message. However, even more likely is that Shane does want to get out from under the shadow of his father and sister. With his mother leaving WWE to pursue a seat in the Senate, it trailblazed the path for Shane to also leave without being branded disloyal to the family business...More?
source: pwtorch.com
More from pwinsider.com
Preview: SmackDown vs. Raw WWE Bragging Rights Tag Match
Joining co-captains Triple H & Shawn Michaels of DX are several of the Monday night brand’s most electrifying Superstars, including Unified Tag Team Champion Big Show, Mark Henry, Cody Rhodes, Jack Swagger and Kofi Kingston.
Team SmackDown co-captain, Unified Tag Team Champion Chris Jericho, must also be feeling confident, however – Kane declared himself co-captain with Jericho, and their squad consists of some of the finest Friday night ring warriors, including Dolph Ziggler, Cryme Tyme’s Shad & JTG, Eric Escobar and Drew McIntyre.
Unlike more traditional matches which are generally decided by each individual combatant’s strength and courage, the outcome of this unprecedented event will rely profoundly on which side can produce a more cohesive combination of team chemistry and tactics...More?
source: wwe.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Chyna becomes the first and only woman to ever win the WWF(E) Intercontinental title. She defeated Jeff Jarrett at No Mercy.
October 17, 1999
