December 31, 2009
WWE Superstars Results: Ring in the New Year
In the main event of “WWE Superstars,” MVP joined with Chris Masters to take on their Raw brandmates, Jack Swagger & Carlito. Though The Ballin’ Superstar & The Masterpiece were fortunate enough to have the lovely Eve cheering them on from ringside, her support wasn’t enough to spur them onto victory. Carlito proved to be too much for Masters to handle as The Southpaw from San Juan pinned his opponent for the win. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Top 100 Most-Watched Telecasts on Basic Cable for 2009; June 22nd Raw # 70
Recap of the June 22nd episode - Triathlon of Terror.
source: tvbythenumbers.com
Deadline Looms for FOX and Time Warner Cable Dispute, SmackDown May Not Air in Several Major Markets
SmackDown vs. Raw iPhone Game
A new SmackDown vs. RAW game for the iPhone has been released. The game features Batista, Rey Mysterio, Chris Jericho, Randy Orton, John Cena, Triple H, Big Show, Edge, The Undertaker, Matt Hardy and Vladimir Kozlov.
source: impactwrestling.com
December 30, 2009
Interview with Batista
If there is one thing that Batista regrets, it is that he believes that the other wrestlers of his generation are a dying breed.
“We’re dinosaurs in this age of instant gratification. We are not just athletes, we are also storytellers and I don’t see that in the newcomers,”...More?
source: manilastandardtoday.com
Steve "Dr. Death" Williams Dead at Age 49
Pro wrestling great Steve "Dr. Death" Williams died on Tuesday night at age 49. He had been battling cancer in recent years. Williams held numerous wrestling titles in North America and Japan throughout his career. He achieved All-American status as a football player at the University of Oklahoma.
source: prowrestling.net
December 29, 2009
ECW Results: An Original Goodbye
Tired of listening to taunts from Zack Ryder, Tommy Dreamer vowed that if he couldn’t defeat Ryder Tuesday night, he’d leave ECW forever, a strong statement from a Superstar who joined ECW in 1993. With all of his heart, soul and strength, Dreamer – a former two-time ECW Champion – fought the cocky youngster from Long Island, N.Y., but ultimately lost the night his career was on the line.
After a DDT from Dreamer, Ryder snuck his leg under the rope, stopping WWE Official Scott Armstrong’s three-count. Ryder was lucky to find himself in the right place at the right time. Moments later, Ryder countered Dreamer’s back suplex and pinned him, sealing the ECW Original’s fate.
Dreamer’s initial shock turned into emotion as he addressed the WWE Universe, recalling his first time in the Izod Center years ago, watching his second-ever WWE event – featuring a live Piper’s Pit – with his best friend and his father.
“This has been my dream since I was 9 years old and I think it totally proves if you have passion for what you do, you can make it anywhere. And I made it in ECW and I made it in WWE,” he said.
Dreamer went on to thank the old and the new ECW, and told the WWE Universe they are his family – a family he’ll miss.
“Thank you so much. I love you all so much,” he said, shedding a few tears.
With the loss, Dreamer – the final ECW Original on the WWE roster – left Tuesday nights, leaving his prized ECW T-shirt in the ring. Amid “E-C-Dub” chants from the WWE Universe, Dreamer paused to hug his wife at ringside and carried his daughters up the ramp as he said goodbye to the Land of the Extreme one final time. Full results.
source: wwe.com
WWE Has Lucha Libre on the Ropes
It was fight night, and the souvenir vendors were out in force around the Arena Mexico, mecca for the Mexican style of pro wrestling known as lucha libre.
There were satin lucha libre masks for sale, posters of Mexican legends, such as Blue Demon and El Santo, and action figures of current Mexican wrestlers, such as MÃstico.
Jorge RodrÃguez, 5, wanted none of those. His eye was on a T-shirt featuring Jeff Hardy, an American star from World Wrestling Entertainment, the U.S. league. "I like them better. I'm going to have a WWE birthday party!" he gushed. Then a vendor walked by carrying a tiny WWE wrestling ring. "Oooooh! Mom!" RodrÃguez shouted.
In a country intensely proud of its wrestling tradition, the WWE is making an unprecedented push to win over Mexican fans, signing new television contracts, striking merchandising deals, launching a magazine and bringing its muscle-bound stars south of the border for live events.
"We've been working quite diligently (in Mexico) over the last couple of years," said Andrew Whitaker, president of WWE International. "It's a sea change in our brands and story lines."...More?
source: usatoday.com
This Day in Wrestling History
The Monday Night Wars continued, WCW Monday Nitro's 4.6 rating defeated WWF Monday Night RAW's 3.6 rating. RAW in Uniondale, New York featured Owen Hart defeating WWF Champion Shawn Michaels by disqualification when Triple H broke one of his crutches over Hart's head while he had Michaels in the sharpshooter. Nitro was just over 200 miles away in Baltimore, Maryland, and featured Ultimo Dragon defeating WCW Cruiserweight Champion Eddie Guerrero by submission to win the title for the second time, Booker T winning his first of a record six WCW World Television Titles from Disco Inferno, and a main event of WCW World Champion Sting defeating Hollywood Hulk Hogan.
December 29, 1997
Mick Foley (as Mankind) defeated The Rock for his first WWF Title after Stone Cold Steve Austin returned knocking out The Rock with a steel chair. D-Generation X celebrated with Foley after the match.
December 29, 1998
December 28, 2009
Raw Results: Pink and Black is Back
Never say never. Mr. McMahon accepted Bret “Hit Man” Hart’s request to serve as special guest host of the first Raw in 2010! While The Chairman initially declined the WWE Hall of Famer’s appeal, the goading of Shawn Michaels, of all people, appeared to change Mr. McMahon’s mind.
Michaels had interrupted The Chairman to ask for a rematch between himself and The Undertaker at WrestleMania XXVI. Mr. McMahon informed Michaels that not even he can impose his will upon The Deadman. At that point, HBK turned his attention to Hart, who he insisted he would be more than happy to see host Raw. After sharing a furtive glance with Michaels, The Chairman appeared to have a change of heart and gleefully granted Hart’s request. Full results.
source: wwe.com
The Next Guest Host of Raw is.....
Bret "The Hitman" Hart.
"If you do, I promise you good things will happen." - Shawn Michaels to Vince McMahon
Brain Damage Found in Hockey Player
A deceased professional hockey player has been found to have had brain damage associated with repeated head trauma, connecting hockey for the first time to health risks linked to boxers and, most recently, football players.
Reggie Fleming, a defenseman and left wing known for fighting as much as scoring in a long career from 1959 to 1974, was found by Boston University researchers to have chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a neurodegenerative disease known to cause cognitive decline, behavioral abnormalities and ultimately dementia. Fleming died in July at age 73 and was the first hockey player known to have been tested for the disease, known as C.T.E...More?
source: nytimes.com
Raw Preview: Rumors Addressed
Tonight on Monday Night Raw, WWE Chairman Mr. McMahon will address the rumor of WWE Hall of Famer Bret "Hit Man” Hart's return to WWE. Is The Excellence of Execution bound for Raw after a 12-year absence from WWE?
source: wwe.com
Kizarny Speaks on WWE Backstage Politics
Former WWE wrestling star, Kizarny (Nick Cvjetkovich) has launched a stinging attack on the company's stars, claiming there is backstabbing within the organization.
Speaking about his experience for the first time, he told the wrestling101 website: " Working with WWE was awesome and awful all at once...More?
This Day in Wrestling History
Sting defeated Hulk Hogan for the WCW World Title at Starrcade in Washington, DC.
December 28, 1997
December 27, 2009
December 26, 2009
Most Hated Wrestler of the Decade
He's played the role of a fan favorite for the last several years, there are still no shortage of wrestling fans who despise Triple H as much as they ever did. A lot of that has little to do with the tactics he employs in the ring, and everything to do with the tactics he employs backstage. Many feel his relationship wit the McMahon family through his marriage to Stephanie gives him and unfair advantage. But that's not quite fair. Triple H was well on his way to being an all-time great long before Stephanie became part of his life.
source: pro wrestling illustrated february 2010
TNA Signs Tag Team
TNA president Dixie Carter posted the following message on Twitter:
"Proud to report TNA has signed the Young Bucks. Thanks to all of you for the input on them. They show great potential."
Carl DeMarco Gets to the Poynt
Carl DeMarco wants to clear something up. WWE's former global president, with a chunk of his job in Canada (he was named WWE Canada president in 1995), didn't quit because of a rift with WWE. He says there was no issue with his boss, Vince McMahon.
It was just time to move on and DeMarco, still living in Toronto, is happy to have landed on the board of directors for Multiplied Media, a Calgary-based provider of mobile local search services. Front and centre is Poynt, a piping-hot Blackberry app that points users to local retailers, business and events. You can get driving directions, see showtimes, watch trailers, buy movie tickets and much more.
DeMarco says it was just time for a change and it was coincidence that it came not long after there were layoffs at WWE Canada...More?
source: slam wrestling
This Day in Wrestling History
"Gorgeous George" Wagner died of a heart attack at 48
March 24, 1915 - December 26, 1963
Muhammad Ali acknowledged that his own approach to flamboyant self-promotion was influenced by George. A 19-year old Ali met a 46-year old George at a Las Vegas radio station. During George's radio interview, the wrestler's promo caught the attention of the future heavyweight champion. If George lost to Classy Freddie Blassie, George exclaimed, "I'll crawl across the ring and cut my hair off! But that's not gonna happen because I'm the greatest wrestler in the world!" Ali recalled, "I saw 15,000 people comin' to see this man get beat. And his talking did it. I said, 'This is a gooood idea!'" In the locker room afterwards, the seasoned wrestler gave the future legend some invaluable advice: "A lot of people will pay to see someone shut your mouth. So keep on bragging, keep on sassing and always be outrageous." - wikipedia.org
Gorgeous George vs Larry Moquin
December 25, 2009
SmackDown Results: DX-Mas Night SmackDown
In their first title defense since winning the Unified Tag Team Championship, DX came to SmackDown to take on The Hart Dynasty. The champions were looking to continue the Christmas cheer they spread on Monday Night Raw (Raw recap). After a competitive contest, it was DX who reigned supreme when HBK hit David Hart Smith with some holiday Sweet Chin Music, followed up by a devastating pedigree from Triple H. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Indy Wrestling Spotlight
Indy Wrestlers that would like to be featured in the "Indy Spotlight" may send me a video of their work. It will be featured for one week. Please send it in an embeddable version, i.e. YouTube. Click here for the submission form.
This Day in Wrestling History
Ric Flair wins his first World title. Flair teams with Greg Valentine to beat Gene and Ole Anderson for the NWA World Tag Team Championship
December 25, 1976
Kevin Von Erich defeated Bruiser Brody to win the NWA American Title and Ernie Ladd defeated Ray Candy by forfeit to win his 4th Mid-South North American title
December 25, 1978
Magnum T.A. & Mr. Wrestling II defeated Butch Reed & Jim Neidhart to win the Mid-South Tag Team Title
December 25, 1983
The Rock 'N' Roll Express defeated Ted DiBiase & Hercules Hernandez to win their 3rd Mid-South Tag Team Title
December 25, 1984
December 24, 2009
WWE Superstars Results: Holiday Hostility
One wouldn’t think The Big Red Monster would be celebrating on Christmas Eve, but after defeating the very vicious Mike Knox, it seems that Kane has a reason to embrace the holiday spirit. It wasn’t easy, but that didn’t seem to bother SmackDown’s resident Red Monster, and in the end, after connecting with a devastating chokeslam, Kane got the 1-2-3. It seems only appropriate that the sadistic one’s trademark red be met with green envy after his win this holiday season. Full results.
source: wwe.com
The Gangsta Rapper Tully Blanchard
An article relating hip hop to wrestling:
I watched Ric Flair and The Four Horsemen with the boy the other night, and it really struck me how Bad Boy/Death Row these dudes were. The whole aesthetic--"private jets...finest women...most expensive cars...biggest house"--is basically what popular hip-hop became as it matured. And then of course emphasis on mike skills (someone in the doc literally called it that, I think it was Triple H) the ability to be able to talk, almost off the dome, and expound on the character your playing.
Likewise, there were all these moments where wall of reality came down. If you listen to Arn Anderson talk, it's really not clear when he's talking himself or when he's talking about the character he's playing. Less interesting, but still with on the same theme, is the Flair v. Bischoff beef. You have a guy basically cursing out his boss in front of millions of viewers, except he means it. Of course a lot of the similarities boil down to the respective target audience for wrestling and hip-hop--young boys. Hip-hop pulls from the post-pubescent angst, and wrestling pulls from post-pubescent fantasies. Of course the "rapping" in wrestling is ultimately centered around an actual fight, and is a little less meta. But while I loved watching, say, the Road Warriors do work, I think I liked listening to Ric Flair rap at least as much as I liked watching him wrestle.
A shout out to Triple-H, Ric Flair and Dusty Rhodes. They all had some really sharp points about wrestling and what the Four Horsemen meant. Triple H had a great breakdown on how the Horsemen fit into the whole psychology of the 80s. He talked about how Dusty Rhodes, the son of the plumber, represented the common man going to war against Horsemen, on the representation of villainous, capitalist excess. And capitalist excess almost always won...More?
source: the atlantic.com
George Michael, Famed D.C. Sportscaster, Dies
George Michael, a high-rated and hyperanimated Washington sportscaster whose use of game highlights on his syndicated sports program became the model for successful broadcasters like ESPN, died Thursday morning at Sibley Hospital, according to a statement issued by his former employer, WRC-TV (Channel 4).
Mr. Michael, who became the dean of Washington sportscasters during a 28-year career at the station, had cancer...More?
source: washingtonpost.com
Wrestling's 10 Best Hidden Gems of the Decade
2000: The Rock vs. Triple H (Iron Man Match)
Make no mistake: 2000 was Triple H's year. While his more famous battles with Mick Foley stand out in most people's minds as the cream of the crop that year, his often forgotten classic with The Rock at Judgment Day was about as much fun as a wrestling fan could have in Y2K.
Going into the match, fans were wondering whether two guys with limited ring skill and no experience wrestling past the 40 minute mark could bring the goods the way HBK and Bret Hart has done so four years prior.
They did, delivering a match chocked with enough old school wrestling psychology to make Gordon Solie blush. After 58 minutes, with the pinfalls tied at 5 apiece, the "sports entertainment" beast reared its ugly head in the form of run-ins galore.
Triple H scored the fluke victory over The Rock, 6-5, after a returning Undertaker earned HHH the DQ decision at the bell. Minor blemishes aside, this is the match that both solidified HHH as a main event player, and gave The Rock the instant credibility he'd been lacking from the dwindling "wrestling purist" base. Nine years later, this match is still lacking the love from a DVD release.
Click here for the rest of the list.
source: bleacherreport.com
The final 10 minutes of the iron man match between The Rock and Triple H.
December 23, 2009
UFC & WWE Target Online Piracy
Lorenzo Fertitta, the co-owner of UFC, recently went to Capitol Hill to discuss the problems facing UFC with respect to online piracy. He told the House Judiciary Committee that some 140,000 people watched UFC 106, the company’s November pay-per-view event headline by Tito Ortiz vs. Forrest Grifin, online using various streaming sites. UFC had identified 271 unauthorized streams, which is where the 140,000-person estimate comes from.
The WWE started going after illegal online streams earlier this year. The WWE claimed, like Fertitta, that online streams were damaging its bottom line...More?
source: crunchgear.com
Guest of Iron
Very familiar with being the center of attention inside the squared circle, Mike Tyson is ready to return to the ring. Unlike old times, however, the former heavyweight championship boxer will not be slipping on the gloves and delivering knockout punches (maybe). He will, on the other hand, be delegating responsibility to WWE Superstars as Monday Night Raw’s special guest host on Jan. 11 from Minneapolis.
The self-proclaimed “Baddest Man on the Planet” has never been one to hide his feelings or shy away from the spotlight. One of the most newsworthy and notorious sports celebrities in American history, Tyson will surely be prepared for all challenges on Raw...More?
source: wwe.com
Jim Ross: "Too Many Wrestlers Who Failed to Save Their Money Find it Awfully Convenient to Put the Blame on the Companies That They Worked For..."
I have read so much about the unionizing of pro wrestling, which will never happen by the way in my view, and improving the working conditions for all the talents of which I wholeheartedly endorse by the way. Nonetheless, I know many wrestlers who were toward the end of their careers when I first got in the business in the 70's who were smart enough independent contractors to acquire the info they needed to prepare for their future being independent contractors much like non union carpenters, plumbers, etc. Would I like to see wrestlers with more traditional benefits, etc? Of course. Is it impossible for independent contractors to not be able to establish a quality life because they are independent contractors? Absolutely not.
Yes, in a "perfect world" all performers working for any company being full time employees with the traditional benefits would be ideal but the thought that individuals who are independent contractors cannot create their own benefits and take advantage of independent contractor status is not accurate.
Too many wrestlers who failed to save their money when they were earning good cash, that did not plan for their futures, and never bothered to file their income tax returns find it awfully convenient to put the blame on the companies that they worked for or, more specifically, the WWE because they are still in business after all these decades instead of accepting any responsibility for their own misdeeds and irresponsible lack of planning...More?
Sheamus Comments on Sudden Rise, Triple H, More
"Yes, there are a few stories going around about Triple H, but the deal is that Trip has been fantastic. He's one of the most successful WWE champions of all time. If you are going to learn, then learn from the best."...More?
source: pwtorch.com
Wrestlers Try to Instill Mexican Tradition
If you look as you drive around town, you may see signs for something called, "Lucha Libre." It's a movement driven by Jesus Hernandez to show people that professional wrestling is more than just body slams and karate chops. "It's just a package of entertainment for the Hispanic community," said Hernandez.
Over the past year, hundreds (sometimes thousands) pack into venues like the National Western Complex to see masked men throw each other around the ring. "That's what we do for fun," said Hernandez. "We try to do as many shows as we can."
When Hernandez was growing up in Mexico, he learned the trade of Lucha Libre from some of the best wrestlers of his time. Now, he's teaching a new generation of wrestlers in a ring put together inside of a storage unit in Commerce City.
Hernandez wants to start something in Denver that he says is part of Mexican pop culture...More?
source: 9news.com
Batista and Randy Orton Appearances in Washington, DC
Batista will be appearing at the Washington DC Auto Show on Wednesday, January 27th from 6-8PM. The next day, January 28th, Randy Orton will be appearing at the same show from 6-8PM.
source: impactwrestling.com
December 22, 2009
ECW Results: Losing his Swagger
Former ECW Champion Jack Swagger returned to the Land of the Extreme Tuesday night to participate in the ECW Homecoming. “The All-American American” took on one of ECW’s newest and brightest stars, Yoshi Tatsu.
Despite Swagger’s strong, and dominating effort, he fell to a final buzzsaw kick by the Japanese Superstar, and returns to Raw without a future chance to reclaim the ECW Championship. The exciting young Tatsu celebrated his monumental victory and has qualified for the Homecoming Finale along with Kane, Vance Archer and Ezekiel Jackson, the latter who faces Vladimir Kozlov on “WWE Superstars” Thursday night. Full results.
source: wwe.com
THQ, Jakks, WWE Settle Lawsuit Over Joint Venture
The settlement calls for THQ and Jakks to dissolve their joint venture at year's end, and for THQ to enter into a new, 8-year licensing agreement directly with WWE starting January 1, 2010, the companies said in a press release.
Under the settlement, THQ will pay WWE $13.2 million, and pay Jakks Pacific $20 million over the next four years in addition to royalties due for the period ending December 31.
The three companies had sued each other over enforcement of the contract, which began in 1999 and was set to expire on December 31.
The settlement calls for the companies to withdraw all claims and end all litigation without any party admitting to wrongdoing, the companies said.
Analysts estimated that THQ and Jakks each made about $20 million a year from the WWE deal.
source: reuters.com
2009 WWE Magazine Awards
Triple H's awards:
Finisher of the Year:
Cody Rhodes On Being Sent Face-First Into Triple H's Sledgehammer via Shawn Michaels' Sweet Chin Music at Hell in a Cell
Best Mic Skills:
Triple H - The Game knows how to walk the walk, but he's just as skilled at talking the talk. Whether he's calling out Orton with sledgehammer in hand or dialing HBK, Triple H commands our attention week in, week out as we cling to his every word
source: wwe magazine january 2010
The WWE vs. TNA vs. ROH
The pro wrestling business is in an odd place right now. While everybody has their own opinion of each company's product, the general consensus from those within the industry and those that report on it is that the business of pro wrestling seems to be in a bit of trouble. While company's like the WWE aren't going away any time soon, the lack of forethought and preparing for the next generation has made ripples across the business as a whole, and drastic changes need to be made...More?
source: tv.ign.com
Future Raw Guest Host Revealed
Mike Tyson will be hosting the January 11, 2010 edition of Monday Night Raw.
December 21, 2009
Rumor Mill - Tommy Dreamer Reportedly Gives Notice to Leave WWE
ECW wrestler Tommy Dreamer has given his notice to leave WWE, according to PWInsider.com.
Dreamer wrestled at last night's Smackdown TV taping in Orlando and he will be on Tuesday's night ECW TV show against Zack Ryder. (Read the ECW spoiler report.)
WWE built a storyline around Tommy Dreamer leaving the company this past June, but Dreamer re-signed a long-term contract with WWE and was given a near-two-month run with the ECW Title.
Lately, Dreamer has been used as an enhancement talent on ECW TV. He was booked to lose to Vance Archer the last two weeks on WWE TV.
addiitonal source: pwtorch.com
Another Bush-League TNA Move
TNA had a street team at WWE's show in Orlando on Sunday night. The street team was promoting the January 4th iMPACT! special. WWE's security eventually ejected them from the venue.
source: 411mania.com
And they wonder why they are perceived as amateurs. Perception is reality.
‘The Pope’ Speaks on his TNA Signing
“I have absolutely nothing but positive thoughts about coming here. This is literally a stress-free environment. Everyone is just like a big family. This is my first time experiencing that. The funny part is that it seems (WWE) can only push one black wrestler at a time. God forbid you push two black guys at the same time. They’ve always had this problem. It’s something I’ve been in discussion about with Dixie Carter because it’s something I feel TNA needs to tackle even though I think they do a great job with diversity. Why it didn’t happen in WWE? I have no idea.”
source: scrippsnews.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Del Wilkes (aka The Patriot and The Trooper).
December 21, 1961
December 20, 2009
NFL to Ask Players to Donate Brains for Study
The league is going to encourage current and former NFL players to agree to donate their brains to the Boston University Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy...More?
source: foxnews.com
The Definitive History of the WBF
As the final moments of the annual Mr. Olympia competition played out, there was nothing particularly memorable about the scene. What was going on in the lobby of the Arie Crown Theatre in those final few minutes was anything but however. A carefully calculated all-out ambush was about to occur. The man behind it was Vince McMahon, and the intentions were hostile.
Spectators sat restless in the Arie Crown Theatre while sponsors gave their pitches as the 1990 Mr. Olympia was coming to an end. What everyone was confronted with next was a total shock, even to Joe Weider and the competing athletes themselves. Vince McMahon spent $5,000 to secure a promotional booth for Bodybuilding Lifestyles, his new bodybuilding magazine. Tom Platz, the magazine's spokesman, stepped to the stage to promote the publication in front of the 4,600 bodybuilding fans in attendance . Platz began to speak: "I have a very important announcement to make. We at Titan Sports are proud to announce the formation of the World Bodybuilding Federation. And we are going to kick the IFBB's ass!"...More?
source: pwchronicle.blogspot.com
MVP: 'Wrestling Saved My Life'
Being in Iraq earlier this month as part of WWE’s Tribute to the Troops was something wrestling superstar MVP says he’ll never forget. It was a humbling experience, he says, to have been in the midst of heroes who risk their lives each and every day to secure our freedom.
But, as he stood with a group of Marines in a war zone, he gazed at the fences topped with razor wire and the towers that dotted the landscape. The memory gave him chills.
“You guys would be surprised at how much I can relate to what you’re going through,” he told the soldiers. “The uniforms, the housing barracks, being told what to do, the razor wire. I can relate to that. But I didn’t have to worry about anybody trying to blow me up.”...More?
source: postandcourier.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Bret Hart defeated Bill Goldberg for the WCW World Heavyweight Title and Chris Jericho and Chyna pinned each other to become co-holders of the WWF(E) Intercontinental title
December 20, 1999
December 19, 2009
ESPN Columnists on Deaths in Wrestling
ESPN's Bill Simmons and Malcolm Gladwell have a discussion at this link about the recent death of Eddie "Umaga" Fatu, Roddy Piper's reaction to it and the wrestling business as a whole.
Sheamus vs Hulk Hogan Would be the Ultimate WWE Irish Fight
Lets call it 'Erin go Brawl' – Hogan, who is a fake Irishman, fighting a real one, Hogan showing the new Irish kid on the block a trick or two, and Sheamus eventually prevailing because – well, he's Sheamus...More?
source: irishcentral.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Madusa defeats Evan Karagias to win the Cruiserweight Championship at Starrcade. This was the first time a woman was crowned with this title.
December 19, 1999
December 18, 2009
SmackDown Results: From Here to Christmas
Friday night began in a fury of Animalistic rage as Batista interrupted SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long, demanding a rematch with World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker following the GM’s controversial actions at WWE TLC. However, when Rey Mysterio emerged to challenge the irate Animal, Teddy Long declared that the two former comrades-in-arms would face each other, with the winner becoming the No. 1 Contender to the World Title, challenging The Demon of Death Valley Christmas Night.
No matter what punishment Batista threw Mysterio’s way in the grueling main event, The Master of the 619 with the heart of a lion simply refused to be beaten. Then, from out of nowhere, the WWE Universe erupted into a mad frenzy as the masked Superstar overcame the odds, using a sudden small package to snatch the win from his bewildered adversary.
As a result of his huge triumph, Rey Mysterio will challenge The Undertaker for the World Heavyweight Championship on Christmas Night. Full results.
source: wwe.com
UFC Vs. WWE – Can Dana White Out McMahon Vince?
A few years back no-one would dare make this comparison, but these days it seems to be something that maybe needs to be discussed a little more. The UFC scene has long looked down its nose at the professional wrestling world, at least in the sense of the much hyped athleticism. Wrestlers are workers, for sure, but in terms of how dangerous they would be in the octagon – forget it. No matter how many tables Cactus Jack has been thrown through, he's still gonna tap on a well executed armbar, or get pounded defenseless against the right striker. Forget how much he loves the pain, his brain loves oxygen and a well set rear naked choke is going to take his ability to operate a sock puppet away – quickly...More?
source: tvovermind.com
ROH Champ Austin Aries Says Wrestlers Need Union Protection in WWE and TNA
Ring of Honor champion Austin Aries presented a strong argument that wrestlers in WWE and TNA should have union protection as actors since they're being slotted for roles in a TV show. Aries based his argument on WWE and TNA changing the characters and personalities of wrestlers coming from Ring of Honor or the independent scene to fit a certain role.
"This new idea that you’re going to come into our company and we’re going to change everything about you – I guess that’s the mentality that we’re all just kind of actors and we’re playing a part," Aries told Alfonso Castillo of Newsday. "I’ll follow that, but if that’s the way we’re going to do the business, let’s do it across the board. If we’re actors, then let’s be actors – and get the benefits of actors and be taken care of like actors. They kind of found this crack. I don’t know. It’s really interesting."
Aries added that it bothers him that WWE and TNA "discount" wrestlers coming up from the independent ranks as if what they do prior to joining the Big Two promotions "didn't mean anything."
"We (referring to himself, Bryan Danielson, and Nigel McGuinness) busted our a-- to make our names mean something, to be recognized in the wrestling business. And for them to just try to erase it so that they can feel like they’re the creator, it doesn’t much make much sense to me," Aries said. "Just because we’re on TV for another promotion doesn’t mean all the stuff we did here didn’t mean anything. Then why do they want me?"
reported by: pwtorch.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to:
"Stone Cold" Steve Austin
December 18, 1964
Rob Van Dam
December 18, 1971
Trish Stratus
December 18, 1975
December 17, 2009
WWE Superstars Results: Evening the Score
Fans of Raw are well familiar with the enmity between MVP and Jack Swagger, as the two have frequently found themselves circling one another like junkyard dogs. On the last “WWE Superstars,” the two ring warriors squared off with “The All-American American” leaving with his hand raised in victory. The previous week’s loss must have given The Ballin’ Superstar the motivation he needed however, as he took the fight to Swagger, ending the match with a decisive pin...More?
source: wwe.com
CM Punk Shoots on Hulk Hogan
CM Punk had some strong words regarding TNA Wrestling, and Hulk Hogan on the KISW radio show:
"I have a lot of friends that work there, and I do watch the show, but I seem to watch it on perpetual fast forward. I really hope something comes of it, but honestly I have zero faith in Hulk Hogan as a man who’s 60 years old and tries to dress like he’s 18 and lives on the Jersey Shore. And for a guy I’ve never met, I’ve formulated enough opinion about him just from being around him and his business acumen, and I really trust he’s not in this for TNA, he’s in this for himself, and you know, Hulk Hogan I hope you prove me wrong, I hope, because with this competition, we step up, everybody makes more money, and I think it makes the business healthier...and that’s what I’m looking forward to, but I don’t have much hope"
source: kisw.com
2010 Royal Rumble Theme Songs
The theme songs for WWE's 2010 Royal Rumble pay-per-view will be Martyr No More by Chris Jericho's band Fozzy and Hero by Skillet.
Rumor Mill - TNA Wants to Tell Stories
There was a half hour meeting at an Impact taping a few weeks ago where the wrestlers were told to go back to working holds and telling stories with their matches as opposed to the assorted "highspots" accustomed with the product.
source: wrestling observer newsletter
According to Dixie Carter, TNA is wrestling, not sports entertainment. I find this switch very surprising.
Obama Tribute 'Not for WWE'
President Barack Obama has denied taping a special message for WWE's Tribute to the Troops TV show. The WWE sent out a press release earlier this week announcing that Obama would be delivering a pre-recorded speech on the show, which airs on NBC. It was seen by many as a boost not only for the WWE, but also Vince's wife Linda's campaign for a US Senate seat.
However a White House spokesman insists Obama did NOT tape his message exclusively for the wrestling programme. Instead, the spokesman revealed the President taped a general greeting that was made available to any media outlet who wanted to air it...More?
source: the sun
Loved to be Hated
Twenty-five years after Andy Kaufman's death, Mike Edison ponders whether the comedian was the greatest wrestler of all time...More?
source: nypress.com
Dutch Mantell Discusses New Book
Wrestling bears, brawling in dressing rooms, fighting through riots, being pulled over at gunpoint. Those read like scenes from a movie, but actually it's a few days in the life of professional wrestling veteran Dutch Mantell. He shares a number of his favorite road stories in his new book The World According to Dutch...More?
source: miamiherald.com
December 16, 2009
Update on TNA Drug Testing
The Figure Four Weekly Newsletter has confirmed, and wrestlezone.com reported several weeks ago, that TNA recently conducted another round of drug testing. However, according to one source within TNA, he apparently took the test, failed it, was notified by TNA management that he failed, and nothing was done about it.
Bret Hart Signs a Talent Deal With WWE
The Wrestling Observer is reporting that Bret Hart has signed a short-term talent contract with WWE that will go into effect on January 1st, 2010, and expire a couple weeks after WrestleMania 26. This makes it very possible that he will be guest hosting the January 4th edition of WWE Raw when it goes head-to-head with TNA Impact. Additionally, Bret could feasibly make further appearances for WWE if his contract is in fact as long as the report indicates.
Q&A with WWE Comics Creators
Comics and Wrestling have been together since Valiant produced WWF Battlemania in 1991. Wrestling and comics' long relationship were recently detailed in Russell Ray's article here on Newsarama. This time out the new WWE Comic is produced by the Titans Publishing and features veteran creators Keith Champagne and Andy Smith. Keith and Andy stopped by to chat about their new comic...More?
source: newsarama.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Scott Steiner makes his return to RAW for the first time in 8 years and challenges Triple H for the World title.
December 16, 2002
December 15, 2009
ECW Results: Ryder Sees Red
Tiffany announced an exciting, new concept that will determine who receives the next ECW Championship Match. Throughout the next four weeks, the ECW General Manager will invite former ECW Superstars to compete with current ECW Superstars in The ECW Homecoming. Sixteen Superstars will compete one-on-one and eight will advance to The Homecoming Finale, featuring an Over-the-Top Rope Challenge on the Jan. 12 edition of ECW on Syfy. The winner of the Challenge will receive an ECW Title Match against Christian at Royal Rumble! Full results.
source: wwe.com
Triple H & Shawn Michaels at The Slammys
Triple H showed once again why he is a class act with this compliment to his buddy Shawn Michaels after HBK and The Undertaker won the Match of the Year Award at the Slammys:
"I just want to say one thing, if you haven't seen this match - you need to see it. You need to go out and get the WrestleMania XXV DVD and watch it, because it was a classic. And I can vouch for how good it was because I had to follow it and I didn't stand a chance."
Vince McMahon Named One of the Top 100 People in the Cable Industry
WWE Chairman Vince McMahon has been named one of the Top 100 People in the cable industry by CableFax magazine. To see the full list, click here.
Obama, Wrestlers Pay Holiday Tribute to US Troops
A holiday message from President Barack Obama is part of World Wrestling Entertainment's "WWE Tribute to the Troops" special airing this weekend.
The program, set for 9 p.m. EST Saturday on NBC, chronicles a Mideast trip by WWE wrestlers that included base visits and a performance for the troops. Along with the taped remarks from the president, Gen. David Petraeus also delivers holiday wishes.
The NBC special marks the WWE's seventh annual Mideast trip.
source: associated press
