January 31, 2011
Raw Results: It's Good to be "King"
Jerry “The King” Lawler has enjoyed quite a storied career, but he’s about to add yet another chapter. The WWE Hall of Famer prevailed in a seven-man Raw Rumble Match against John Cena, King Sheamus, John Morrison, R-Truth, Randy Orton and CM Punk. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Rumor Mill - Speculation on McMahon Stepping Down
The latest issue of Power Slam features a story on Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque’s official promotion to Senior Advisor to Vince McMahon, which has led many to conclude that “The Game” is now more interested in a career behind the scenes than in the squared circle. Though in no way confirmed, the article notes that McMahon is expected to step down from his post as Chairman and CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment in 2011 or 2012 and hand over the reigns of the company to Levesque. McMahon, however, would remain with the organization in an advisory role.
source: wrestling-edge.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Chris Benoit, Perry Saturn, Eddie Guererro and Dean Malenko show up on RAW. The group would be known as "The Radicalz."
January 31, 2000
January 30, 2011
More Ridicule for TNA...
More TNA rumblings from Mark Madden:
MORE RIDICULE FOR TNA...
...and as usual, the wounds are self-inflicted.
Only the stupidest, most dense idiots in the history of wrestling would head into a re-launch angle without having all the protagonists under contract. Whoever's responsible for letting Nash and Booker slip through the cracks to the Royal Rumble - an event TAILOR-MADE for such a poach - SHOULD BE FIRED.
But they won't be. For one thing, that would entail taking responsibility. Nobody does that in TNA.
For another, this setback won't deter anyone at TNA from being united in their common cause: MILKING THAT DUMB SKIRT AND HER ENABLING FATHER DRY.
Dixie Carter's stupidity is damn near magnificent. Either her top administrators are totally incompetent or they're running a con. Either way, she can't see it.
Why would Nash and Booker go to WWE? A) More money and B) It's the REAL SHOW. Deep down, everybody wants to be on the REAL SHOW.
Did Nash and Booker double-cross TNA? Are you really asking that question with a straight face?
Since TNA is not a legitimate threat to WWE, why would Vince McMahon do this? BECAUSE HE CAN. Kinda fun, too.
source: wrestlezone.com
Royal Rumble Results 2011
World Heavyweight Champion Edge vs. Dolph Ziggler
Winner: Edge (c)
WWE Champion The Miz vs. Randy Orton
Winner: The Miz after interference from The Nexus and CM Punk
Divas Champion Natalya vs. Lay-Cool (2-on-1 Handicap Match)
Winner: Eve - New Diva Champion. Eve was added to match by the Raw GM.
40-Man Royal Rumble Match
Winner: Alberto Del Rio. Kevin Nash (Diesel) and Booker T make appearances in the Rumble.
Triple H Ready to Rumble?
At least that’s what officials at WWE have to be privately saying behind closed doors.
Triple H, son-in-law of WWE owner Vince McMahon and one of the company’s biggest stars, has been out of the spotlight since an injury knocked him out of action last summer.
There’d be no better time to make a return than tonight’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view.
WWE, with stock dipping and pay-per-view buy rates on the decline, desperately needs something — or someone — to shake things up. The return of a familiar face with star power would be a step in the right direction.
Triple H, 41, has said publicly that he’ll only get back in the ring if he’s still able to compete at a high level, and has no plans to be one of those performers who claim to be the greatest long after their main-event days are over.
“If I can’t do this the way I feel like I should be able to, then I want to be done,” he told WWE Magazine. “And I don’t want to come back here and tarnish that. I don’t want to do the nostalgia run where I come out and say I’m the greatest in the world.”
Triple H is expected to take a much more active role in the creative division of the company — even more so than in previous years — now that wife Stephanie has three young children at home.
Surprisingly he said in a recent interview that he was more focused on learning about the company’s other business operations than he was attending creative meetings, calling himself a “special attraction” rather than a full-time wrestling performer.
But the division of the company that needs him now is the one with the ropes and the turnbuckles. Mania is just around the corner, and while WWE has done an admirable job of elevating younger talent this past year, star power is still what sells the product.
So don’t be surprised if Triple H turns out to be the 40th entrant in the newly expanded 40-man Rumble. One possible scenario has Triple H coming in and eliminating Sheamus — the man who allegedly put Trips on the shelf — to win the event.
source: postandcourier.com
Indy Show Outdraws TNA
A Southern All-Star Wrestling independent show at the Nashville Fairgrounds last night headlined by WWE Hall of Famer Jerry Lawler vs. Bill Dundee reportedly drew 1,700 paid fans. In comparison, TNA's recent farewell tribute show at the Fairgrounds only drew 900 fans.
source: f4wonline.com
Rumor Mill - Previous Delays to Triple H's Return
The latest issue of Power Slam reports that Triple H's return to WWE programming has been postponed on multiple occasions dating back to October.
According to WWE creative team sources, his return was originally scheduled for the Bragging Rights pay-per-view on Oct. 24. It was postponed to shortly before the Survivor Series, and again to the pay-per-view itself. He was then scheduled to return at the King of the Ring edition of Monday Night Raw on Nov. 29, then the week after that. He was also tentatively scheduled for the first Raw of 2011.
The magazine adds that there has been talk of him returning at tonight's Royal Rumble pay-per-view.
source: f4wonline.com
This Day in Wrestling History - Joe Stecher vs. Earl Caddock Draws 80,000 at MSG
Joe Stecher defeats Earl Caddock in New York City at Madison Square Garden. The show draws a gate of $80,000. Caddock takes home $15,000 and Stecher $25,000. This match pits Joe Stecher's claim of the World Championship against Caddock who had never truly lost the title and made one Undisputed World Champion in Stecher. The match is the oldest known wrestling match which still survives on film.
January 30, 1920
January 29, 2011
X Years After, Memories of the XFL
If you haven't already done so, get a calendar and circle Feb. 3. It's the 10th anniversary of a sports breakthrough that should not pass unnoticed.
The XFL sprang to life Feb. 3, 2001, with its first game. I know, most of you think that's like commemorating the birth of New Coke or "Rosemary's Baby" -- assuming Rosemary had a girl and dressed her in a G-string.
Sure, the brainchild of rasslin' king Vince McMahon had its flaws. But history shows it deserves some due. For one not-so-glorious spring, the XFL gave us a partial glimpse where football was heading...More?
source: fanhouse.com
January 28, 2011
SmackDown Results: “Spear”-ited Reaction
Following another outspoken Friday night address by The Miz, Rated RKO alumni Edge & Randy Orton reunited to battle The Awesome One & Dolph Ziggler in a Champions and Challengers Tag Team Match.
In the midst of absolute tag team mayhem, Edge defeated his bleach blond adversary with the Spear. However, as the dust cleared, an irate Vickie Guerrero used her authority to ban The Rated-R Superstar’s favorite instrument of destruction until further notice, declaring that if Edge uses the Spear in his Royal Rumble title match (preview), he will be disqualified and lose the World Heavyweight Championship. Following her proclamation, The Ultimate Opportunist hit Ziggler with three defiant Spears both inside and outside the ring. Full results.
source: wwe.com
How WWE Conquered the Social Media Arena
WWE is known for its burly performers, lewd females, outrageous story lines and epic drama, but behind the scenes there’s a serious fight to engage its audience.
At WWE headquarters in Stamford, CT, a group of innovative marketers and strategists are working hard to pump out the content that gets its viewers excited. Social media is a growing part of that process. The team’s social media efforts have even caught the attention of Mashable readers, who voted to award them two Mashable Awards.
We spoke with three key digital leaders at WWE to discuss its social media strategy — Brian Kalinowski (EVP, digital media), Mark Keys (VP, web production) and Corey Clayton (online community leader) weighed in on how the company is using social to engage and learn from its community...More?
source: mashable.com
Rumor Mill - Stone Cold to Host 'Tough Enough'
Entertainment Weekly is reporting that Stone Cold Steve Austin will be the host of the incarnation of Tough Enough when it debuts on the USA Network on 4/4. Obviously, the hope is that he will bring starpower, and viewers, to the project. They have a trial run on USA with the hope being that it will become a full time program.
source: pwinsider.com
WWE Chief Operating Officer Leaving the Company
WWE filed a Form 8-K today with the SEC that stated the following:
Effective February 28, 2011, Donna N. Goldsmith will leave her positions as Director and Chief Operating Officer of WWE and pursue other interests. She will receive severance benefits as described in the Company’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A filed on March 17, 2010.
Goldsmith, along with Michelle Wilson-EVP Marketing and Stephanie McMahon-EVP Creative Development and Operations were touted as the day-to-day driving force of the WWE and were referred to as WWE's "Wonder Women". The trio were featured in Continental Magazine last January.
It will be interesting to see who takes her place.
Scott Hall Returning to Psychiatric Hospital - Thanks McMahon Family
Former WWE Superstar Scott Hall recently told the Miami Herald that he is due to return to the Menninger Clinic in Houston for treatment. He revealed that partying, drugs and alcohol have all taken a toll on his body “I recently had this pacemaker/defibrillator put in my heart,” said Hall, who was also hospitalized for double pneumonia in the summer.
Hall seemed in a good place with the treatment he has been receiving:
“This place is really cool because it’s a psychiatric hospital. A lot the people there don’t have drug and alcohol stuff. Mental illness is real, and I got them. I don’t know if it’s the multiple concussions or the lifestyle choices…I’m going to a place where they can help me.”
He also thanked the McMahon family for picking up his rehab "tab:"
"I have been to about nine rehabs," said Hall. "They were high dollar and some of the best ones around. Vince has picked up the tab the last couple of times. If you ever work or worked for WWE, if you ever need help, he will give it to you. He is really cool. Thank Vince, his wife Linda, Stephanie, Shane, and Paul [Levesque/Triple H]. Thank you for helping me. It’s hard to ask for help. It’s even harder to accept it, when people offer it."...More?
source: miamiherald.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Ric Flair debuts the famous "WWE Desire" video featuring legends of the past and present in an attempt to convince Vince McMahon to stop from bringing the nWo into the WWE.
January 28, 2002
January 27, 2011
WWE Superstars Results: Facing the Truth
The truth hurts. That’s certainly what Tyson Kidd is thinking right now. The arrogant Superstar may believe he is the most talented competitor in the locker-room, but the truth is he lost for the second week in a row tonight. After falling to Yoshi Tatsu last Thursday, the Hart Dungeon-trained grappler locked up with R-Truth tonight and looked very impressive. But just like last week, Kidd’s ego got the better of him and he let his guard down, allowing the rapping Superstar to pull out the victory. The former WWE Tag Team Champion needs to get his head back in the game if he wants to make a serious impact. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Update: Ric Flair Returns to TNA's European Tour
Ric Flair has arrived in Glasgow, Scotland for today's TNA house show event and apologized to the locker room for his outburst in Dublin, Ireland according to Mike Johnson of pwinsider.com.
Updates to 'The Chaperone' Website
The official website for Triple H's new movie, The Chaperone, has been updated with photos (check out the tattoo!) and a list of theaters the movie will be in. Arizona, Texas and California will be happy.
Goldust Speculates on the Winner of the Royal Rumble
Regarding the Royal Rumble and his pick to win, Goldust said:
"You know, I kind of like - if Triple H is coming back, which I think he might be, but I'm not sure. If he does, I would have to pick him. If not him, I would have to say probably Alberto Del Rio."
WWE's New Standard for PPV's
WWE's Senior Vice President of Partner Sales Joe DelGrosso said at the webinar that WWE would not be cutting back from 13 pay-per-view events a year and that is the "new standard." He noted that this will be the "minimum" going forward, implying that more pay-per-view events may be added in the future.
source: pwtorch.com
This Day in Wrestling History - Andre the Giant Passes Away
Andre Rene Roussimoff May 19, 1946 - January 27, 1993
Due to his immense stature it seemed inevitable that Andre would excel in the wrestling world. He had just started to make a name for himself in the ring as "Monster Eiffel Tower" or "Monster Roussimoff" when French-Canadian wrestler Edouard Carpentier first laid eyes on him. Carpentier was impressed with Andre's raw talent and decided to bring him to North America. Andre began wrestling under the name Jean Ferre in Canada for Grand Prix Promotions. In a short time Andre went from the undercard to being a headlining name. Inspired by the movie King Kong he acquired the nickname, "The 8th Wonder of the World," which stayed with him for the rest of his career.
By the time Andre had performed in front of 20,000 wrestling fans in Montreal, his legend had reached Vince McMahon, Sr. at the World Wide Wrestling Federation's (WWWF) headquarters. McMahon would forever alter Andre's life. In 1972, McMahon signed Andre to wrestle for the WWWF and changed his name to capitalize on his colossal size. "Andre the Giant" became one of the most recognizable names in wrestling. Andre performed under his new name at Madison Square Garden, where he easily defeated his opponent Buddy Wolfe without breaking a sweat. Before long, Andre's venues were sold out and wrestlers lined up to perform in his shadow. As Andre's fame grew to stardom, he was featured in Sports Illustrated in the largest feature they had ever published...More?
source: andrethegiant.com
Andre the Giant vs Big John Studd
January 26, 2011
WWE Bringing Back the Diva Search
World Wrestling Entertainment announced during a web conference today that they will be bringing back the annual Diva Search competition. Julie Stenz, the company's Director of Partner Marketing, discolsed that an approximate ten-week competition would take place during "regularly scheduled" WWE programming and that sponsorship opportunities would also be available.
No date for the Diva Search's return has been announced as of yet.
More On The Ric Flair/TNA Tour Situation: Money Problems & Some Talent Doesn't Want Him Back
Ric Flair will be returning to the tour starting with tomorrow's event in Glasgow, Scotland. Some wrestlers rolled their eyes when they heard that he would be returning, but the decision to bring him back to the tour was a financial one. The European shows are sold out events, and with numerous changes having been made, (AJ Styles and Alex Shelley being injured, Kurt Angle returning home for a family emergency) TNA felt it best to get Flair back onto the shows to maintain good relations with the local promoters and the European fans, who kept supporting the company. This is also why Matt Hardy was added to the tour.
Among some of the wrestlers, the decision to bring Flair back will not be popular. Several performers spoke with management over the last 24 hours in an effort to have Flair sent home or even possibly let go from the company. Many performers were harsh in regards to Flair, stating that he had ruined the mood of the tour, which until this happened, was said to be calm and happy. Some are even comparing Flair to Booker T, as Booker fell out of favor with several in the company during the Germany tour last year. This was a factor in his dismissal from the company. Some talents feel sorry for Flair, including the following source…
"The whole thing was stupid but most of us feel more sorry for him than upset. If someone told you everyone is mad, that's a lie. But, there are some pissed because it makes the entire crew look like a**holes and we are certainly tired of his sh**. Flair's asked several of us for money when he's had his credit cards declined. When that happens, the bar tab comes and others get stuck paying for the very drinks he said were on the house in the first place. Everyone loves the "Nature Boy", but when the limousines and party lifestyle is based on bad credit and lies, it suddenly becomes more pathetic than anything else. There is nothing glamorous about a guy who has no concept of money management and then lies to try and get out of it. The fact he has no money should be a lesson every wrestler today should take note on. Don't let this happen to you. If you read the Gorgeous George book that came out and then take an honest look at Ric, you realize, wow, that book is pretty much predicting his future - and that's not a happy ending."
Another source believes that this may have been a good thing, since it may force management to deal with it first-hand and might make TNA a little more leery of continuing to bring in expensive veteran talent when the last year has shown no upside to it based on the current ratings. The source also says that the younger guys in the locker room have united against the veterans, feeling that they do all the work, while the veterans treat the company like a country club. The source had the following to say…
"I respect what the older guys have done, but they aren't making us any money. Nothing reflects that. We would draw the exact same if 99% of them were gone. Sometimes you have to take a step backwards to take a leap forward and I really think more and more that's where TNA is. Obviously, you need some veteran talents but there's a crew here that wants to build a company and we want to focus on that, not paying someone's bar tab and having to wait for him to fight it out with Craig Jenkins [TNA Management] when he doesn't get his way."
source: pwinsider.com
This Day in Wrestling History
WCW president J.J. Dillon bans the use of the powerbomb after Kevin Nash injures The Giant when attempting the move.
January 26, 1988
January 25, 2011
WWE NXT Results: Trading Up
Week eight results:
NXT Rookie Challenge: Howard Finkel won "Out-think The Fink" (no NXT Rookies earned immunity points)
Ted DiBiase def. Daniel Bryan
Brodus Clay def. Derrick Bateman, Johnny Curtis & Byron Saxton
NXT Rookie Records
Brodus Clay: Challenge points: 0, Win/loss record: 3-2
Byron Saxton: Challenge points: 0, Win/loss record: 3-4
Derrick Bateman: Challenge points: 0, Win/loss record: 1-4
Johnny Curtis: Challenge points: 0, Win/loss record: 2-4
Photo: Shane McMahon Candid
source: wrestleview.com
Update on the Ric Flair/TNA Tour Situation
To update on the Ric Flair incident in Dublin, Ireland, it is said that Flair allegedly played hardball, not getting on the bus after his request for a financial advance was refused. As this kind of thing has occured before and with Flair refusing to get on the plane, a decision was made to leave him behind. One source revealed that because of Flair's outburst, members of the roster were in favor of leaving Flair, some even mocking him, using his "signature promo lines" after the bus left without him. There was also talk that Flair's legendary "partying" habits on the tour may have also had something to do with his decision not to get on the bus. Finally, just to clarify, TNA management did not send Flair home. He was simply left behind after "blowing up" and subsequently refusing to travel, and is likely still in Europe.
source: pwinsider.com
Ric Flair Pulls Out of TNA Tour
According to pwinsider.com, sources in TNA have confirmed that Ric Flair missed the TNA event in Germany due to, "Flair refusing to get on the plane to Germany". Those sources have also state that the reason he did not get on the plane was due to a blow up with a member of TNA Management in Dublin, Ireland.
The source went on to say the following…
"He threw a fit. He was playing 'Nature Boy' on the tour and got pissed off and threw a tantrum. As far as we all know, he's in Dublin still. He said he wasn't coming and he wasn't in Berlin."
This is not the first time Flair has been said to have an outburst since signing with TNA, but most of these incidents were after events, and didn't cause a change to scheduled cards. Flair was not advertised to wrestle in Berlin, but he is advertised for the Glasgow, Scotland show on the 27th. For that event, he is scheduled to team with Kazarian against Douglas Williams and Matt Morgan.
When reached for comment, TNA's head of publicity, Steven Godfrey stated "TNA does not comment on personnel matters."
A source close to the situation reports that Flair pulled out of the tour due to money. According to the source, the issue at hand was TNA not giving Flair an advance pay for the remaining dates on the tour.
partial source: pwtorch.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Championship Wrestling from Florida hosted the "Superbowl of Wrestling" at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida, with 12,000 fans attending. The show was given its name because it took place just over a week after Super Bowl XII. It was headlined by a world title unification match between WWWF Champion Superstar Billy Graham and NWA Champion Harley Race.
January 25, 1978
The Dynamite Kid wins the British Welterweight Title in Preston, England, defeating Jim Breaks, ending his fourth reign.
January 25, 1978
The nWo has its first PPV, called Souled Out.
January 25, 1997
January 24, 2011
Shares of WWE Fell 15% On Monday After They Forecast 4th-Quarter Earnings Far Below Wall Street Estimates
The company, known for its wrestling action through franchises such as "Raw" and SmackDown" and athletes such as Triple H and John Cena, on Friday forecast fourth-quarter earnings of 8-10 cents a share.
Analysts on average expect 16 cents a share, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S.
While the company did not provide any reason for the lower-than-expected forecast, Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter said the outlook pointed to a revenue miss.
"I am sure the weakness is due to their pay-per-view and live events businesses being down," Pachter said.
Pay-per-view programing and ticket sales to live events both fall within the company's live and televised entertainment segment, which accounted for 70 percent of 2009 revenue.
The company could have done a better job of communicating its expectations for the quarter earlier so as to avoid Wall Street being taken by surprise, Sterne, Agee & Leach analyst Arvind Bhatia said.
The Stamford, Connecticut-based company, which has struggled against a still sluggish economy and felt the pinch of consumers cutting back on discretionary spending, reported a decline in sales at all its major segments in the third quarter.
The company's shares, which have shed 14 percent of their value over the last six months, were down $1.18, or 9 percent, at $12.32 in midday trade on the New York Stock Exchange. They touched a year low of $11.50 earlier in the session.
source: reuters.com
'WWE All Stars' Box Art Unveils Two Unbelievable Legends
Well, thanks to today's WWE All Stars cover reveal, you can add a couple more names to that ever-expanding list of talent. Hulk Hogan and the Ultimate Warrior are in this game, and that's no small feat considering Hogan currently works for WWE competitor TNA and the Ultimate Warrior has a history of conflict with the WWE...More?
source: ign.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Lou Thesz defeated Buddy Rogers for the NWA Heavyweight Wrestling title.
January 24, 1963
Jacques Rougeau, Sr. defeats Waldo Von Erich in a tournament final for the vacant National Wrestling Federation Heavyweight Title in Buffalo, New York. The title had been stripped from Johnny Valentine.
January 24, 1973
Hacksaw Jim Duggan wins the first ever WWF(E) Royal Rumble match.
January 24, 1988
Chris Jericho defeated Rey Mysterio for the WCW Cruiserweight title.
January 24, 1998
The Rock defeated Mankind for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title.
January 24, 1999
Sid Vicious defeated Kevin Nash for the vacant WCW Heavyweight title.
January 24, 2000
January 23, 2011
Recap of Triple H on 'ESPN Sunday NFL Countdown'
Triple H made an appearance today on ESPN's NFL Sunday Countdown talking about Aaron Rodgers' touchdown celebration. It is known that in Aaron's touchdown celebrations he makes the end zone into his personal wrestling ring by signaling he is going to win the championship with the belt hand gestures that we see in wrestling. They showed a teaser before the main segment of an example of the touchdown celebration with Triple H watching it on a TV. HHH said, "Oo...look at that celebration!" While doing the gestures himself, well made up in a suit. In a 2nd teaser, HHH said "No one does a celebration like me. But, Aaron, you're getting close." They labeled the segment as "The Main Event".
Packer's quarterback Aaron Rodgers' is not boastful. But expect to see the Championship Belt when they score. His teammate's comment on how they love seeing it. Also, how the Green Bay community is embracing it. HHH comments, "This is one of those things that is an in-your-face gesture. For Aaron to score a touchdown, and let people know it is the Packers year. Right to the cameras. Way to go. If he was to critique it, it's a little bit low. And he needs to do it a couple times to get it across."
source: fromheadlockstoheadlines.com
More Trailers From "The Chaperone"
Imdb.com has more trailers from "The Chaperone". You can view them here.
This Day in Wrestling History
Hulk Hogan wins his first WWF(E) World Title defeating The Iron Sheik at Madison Square Garden
January 23, 1984
Road Warriors reunited
January 23, 1996
Eric Bischoff promoted to President of WCW
January 23, 1998
Chris Jericho defeated Chyna and Hardcore Holly for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title
January 23, 2000
January 22, 2011
Sean Waltman Turning Life Around
It was only a few years ago when Sean Waltman, known to pro wrestling fans as the 1-2-3 Kid and X-Pac, reached rock bottom emotionally. The former World Wrestling Entertainment superstar attempted suicide in his hotel apartment in Mexico City. “I was in Mexico for three years. When I was there, things got really bad,” recalls Waltman.
“I got in a heated argument that turned into physicality with my girlfriend [Alicia Webb]. I ended up striking her back. I always told myself that I would die before I would hit a woman. So when I did that, I was overcome with guilt and shame. I had no tools to handle it. The only thing I could think of was take a whole bottle of Valium or what was left of the bottle. It was probably around 400 milligrams of Valium. “I hung myself from the roof of my apartment. It was the darkest moment of my life, or one of them, to get me to do that. It was a lot of build up that I didn’t know how to deal with.”
“Kevin Nash was there the next day. As soon as I got out of the hospital, he was there. I went to a place to the Menninger Clinic in Houston, Texas. I stayed four months.” The Menninger Clinic is a leading psychiatric hospital for treatment, research and education. Waltman got some much needed insight on himself as a person through soul searching. “It was fantastic,” said Waltman...More?
source: miamiherald.com
The Corre Added to the Royal Runble
WWE added all four members of The Corre to the Royal Rumble match. The wrestlers who make up the new faction are Wade Barrett, Ezekiel Jackson, Heath Slater, and Justin Gabriel. There are now 25 wrestlers advertised for next weekend's 40-man Royal Rumble match.
CHIKARA Pre-Show-A-Go-Go Steaming Free
This is it! The epic 10th season of CHIKARA begins with a bang in Philadelphia as the stars of CHIKARA are joined by the likes of Canada's El Generico and Australia's Madison Eagles! In just 2 days - January 23rd - we're back in action with a loaded card of 8 matches in the grand CHIKARA style!
If you can't join us in person, tune into our Ustream channel (http://www.ustream.tv/user/CHIKARAMedia) and watch our free, streaming Pre-Show-A-Go-Go, hosted by Dr. Keith Lipinski, starting around 3:30 pm! You'll be able to call in and chat with the stars of CHIKARA live as the show is in progress!
WWE Shares Slide On Weak 4Q Earnings Target
World Wrestling Entertainment Inc. (WWE) on Friday issued a fourth-quarter earnings outlook that missed analysts' expectations, news that sent the media and development company's shares lower.
WWE's shares slid 6.7% to $12.60 in after-hours trading.
The company, formerly known as World Wrestling Federation Entertainment, projected fourth-quarter earnings of 8 cents to 10 cents, below the 16-cent profit estimated by analysts polled by Thomson Reuters.
WWE has reported a decline in revenue the past two quarters, hurt by continued softness in the economy, as well as changes in the company's talent base. The company's largest segment--the live and televised entertainment--has been especially hurt in recent quarters. WWE in November said that based on its history of developing talent and creating content with broad appeal, it was confident it could address those creative challenges. Full results are due on Feb. 10.
source: online.wsj.com
This Day in Wrestling History
One night after Vader's WWF(E) debut, he attacks WWF(E) President Gorilla Monsoon and is suspended for the incident.
January 22, 1996
January 21, 2011
SmackDown Results: "Corre"-onation
Before the main event between Edge and The Corre’s Justin Gabriel could begin, Vickie Guerrero emerged to inform the WWE Universe that her boyfriend Dolph Ziggler – No. 1 contender to the World Heavyweight Title – would be joining the announce team.
Thanks to interference by his fellow Corre members, Gabriel picked up a huge victory over The Rated-R Superstar. After the match, Edge was treated to the full wrath of the intimidating new faction – an attack that included the "sternum crushing" 450 Splash by Gabriel and Wasteland by Wade Barrett. As SmackDown came to a close, Ziggler took the opportunity to stand over Edge in a symbolic act of triumph. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Triple H Will Appear on ESPN's NFL Countdown
Jim Ross posted the following on his twitter page:
HHH will appear on espn's nfl countdown sun to discuss GB QB Aaron Rodgers WWE like TD celebration.
WrestleMania XXVII Axxess Schedule
Enjoy a fun-filled day of autograph and photo sessions with your favorite WWE Superstars, Divas and Legends. Plus WrestleMania activities including Superstar Snapshots, Superstar Entrance, WWE Memorabilia, live matches and Q&As at the Main Ring, Kid Zone, Undertaker's Graveyard, WWE Shop, and much more!
Location
Georgia World Congress Center, 1 Georgia Dome, Atlanta, GA 30313
Tickets
Available Saturday, January 29 at ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster Outlets, Georgia Dome Box Office and charge-by-phone at 800-745-3000.
General Admission - $35*
VIP - $75* - Includes a special VIP Meet & Greet with Autograph Signing, and more!
VIP Schedule
Thursday, March 31
8:00 - 10 p.m.: Meet WWE Superstar Randy Orton
Friday, April 1
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.: Meet WWE Superstar John Cena
8:30 - 10:00 p.m.: Meet WWE Superstar Edge
Saturday, April 2
Session 1 (10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.): Meet WWE Superstar Triple H
Session 2 (1:10 - 3:00 p.m.): Meet WWE Superstar Rey Mysterio
Session 2 (3:10 - 5:00 p.m.): Meet WWE Superstar The Undertaker
Sunday, April 3
Session 1 (8:30 - 10:30 a.m.): Meet WWE Superstar The Miz with Alex Riley
Session 1 (10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.): Meet 2011 WWE Hall of Fame inductee Shawn Michaels
Shane McMahon's Company Hires Former WWE Employee
Shane McMahon's company, YOU On Demand, issued a press release announcing two new hires to its management team. One of them, Lisa Richards is a former WWE employee:
Lisa Richards has joined the Company as Senior Vice President of Distribution & Marketing. Ms. Richards is a seasoned executive in the cable industry with over 15 years of experience managing distribution and marketing for both the U.S. and international markets. For the past six years, she worked for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), where she managed distribution and marketing for WWE's subscription video-on-demand service, WWE 24/7 and WWE's pay-per-view services. Prior to WWE, Ms. Richards served as a Senior Director at the Starz Encore Group where she managed sales, marketing and point-of-sale activities for the Starz Super Pak, Starz on Demand, and STARZ! HD Premium Movie Services. Before joining Starz Encore Group, Ms. Richards was at In Demand where she oversaw sales distribution and promotional efforts for Pay-Per-View in the United States.
Update on New WWE DX DVD
WWE has changed the title of their upcoming DX DVD that comes out in April. "DX: The Final Conflict" will now be called "D-Generation X: One Last Stand," unless something else changes.
This Day in Wrestling History
Stone Cold Steve Austin becomes the first ever 3 time winner of the WWF(E) Royal Rumble, also winning the event in 1997 and 1998
January 21, 2001
January 20, 2011
WWE Superstars Results: Kidd Gets Played
Since severing his partnership with David Hart Smith many months ago, Tyson Kidd has displayed a mean streak that has put many Superstars on watch. But the Hart Dungeon-trained grappler hasn’t exactly backed up his big talk in the ring. Although technically-gifted, Kidd’s ego can get the better of him and that’s exactly what happened tonight. After punishing The Cardiac Kid for the majority of the match, Kidd took a moment to , taunt his opponent before applying the Sharpshooter and was rolled up for the pin out of nowhere. Maybe the cocky Kidd will think twice before underestimating Tatsu next time. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Jeff Hardy's Case Postponed Again
Champion pro wrestler Jeff Hardy’s court case has been postponed again.
According to his lawyer, Hardy was expected to take a plea bargain today in Superior Court to charges stemming from his 2009 arrest on drug charges.
But at calendar call, Assistant District Attorney Warren McSweeney told Senior Resident Judge James M. Webb they would need more time.
"Subject to Your Honor’s approval,” McSweeney said, “we have agreed to set that over to February the 16th in the morning."...More?
source: thepilot.com
Chris Jericho Comments on TNA's Problems
"I just think a company with that much talent should be doing better than they are. They've had the same ratings for the last three years. It's just unacceptable with the amount of talent they have there, just as a business. I run my own business as well. I run the business of "Fozzy." And if somebody's not performing and we're not getting bigger, than something has to change. So I just wish they would look at it that way, instead of relying on the same old things and the same old people. They've been trying different things and something isn't clicking. They've had the same million and a half viewers for the last three years. Just as an outsider looking in—as any business owner looking in—if you had the same return or the same results after three years, maybe you might want to try something different to make it grow. But maybe that's their ceiling. Maybe that's what they can get. And if they can make a profit with that and have a successful company with one a half million people, they don't care about doing anything differently. It's not my concern. I'm just calling it as I see it as a business owner and as a fan of wrestling. I would love nothing more than for TNA to get 2 million viewers, 3 million viewers, 10 million viewers. Whatever it takes, I'd love to see that happen. I pull for them every time I hear about them."
Triple H on VH1 Rock Docs
On February 11th, Triple H will have an interview featured on the "LEMMY" edition of the VH1 Rock Docs installment.
Rumor Mill - Backstage Update on Triple H, Stephanie McMahon and WWE Creative
There's a belief within WWE that Triple H is going to be winding down his in-ring career and focusing more on working in the office. Triple H is reportedly studying the marketing end of the business hard since he already has a pretty good understanding of things like the creative side.
On a related note, it's said that Stephanie McMahon is traveling less these days as she's taking care of their three kids at home. Stephanie is still on call but isn't in the office as much and isn't attending WWE tapings as much.
It's said that SmackDown writer Michael Hayes and RAW's Brian Gewirtz seem to have more creative power with Stephanie not involved as much as in the past.
source: wrestling observer newsletter
Why 'WWE All Stars' Rock
This Day in Wrestling History - Bobo Brazil Passes Away
Houston Harris was an American professional wrestler, better known by his ring name, Bobo Brazil. Harris was credited with breaking down barriers of racial segregation in professional wrestling. Harris is considered one of the first successful African-American professional wrestlers, and is often referred to as "the Jackie Robinson of professional wrestling." Originally, Houston was to be known as "Boo-Boo Brazil", but a promoter misprinted his first name as "Bobo" in a print advertisement and it stuck.
Early in his career, some wrestling promoters would match Brazil against fellow African-American wrestlers. Fans clamored to see Brazil face opponents of any type and Brazil would have many matches with competitors such as Killer Kowalski, Dick the Bruiser, Johnny Valentine, and The Sheik, who feuded with Bobo over the course of several decades. These and other rivals would all fall victim to Brazil's finishing maneuver, the Coco Butt (which was a headbutt). Brazil also once wrestled André the Giant to a draw, and challenged Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF Championship in a battle of two top babyface competitors. On October 18th, 1962 Bobo Brazil made history by becoming the first Black American to win the NWA World Heavyweight Title by defeating "Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers. (This distinction is often mistakenly given to Ron Simmons, the first recognized African-American world champion after winning the WCW Title). Although Bobo Brazil initially refused the title (because of an "injury" that Rogers had claimed to have), Brazil was awarded the title the next day after doctors had found nothing wrong with Rogers. However, this title change is not recognized by the NWA. Brazil served as a mentor to wrestler "Soulman Rocky Johnson".
Brazil's manager was James Dudley, the first African-American to be in charge of a major arena in the United States. Dudley would run to the ring waving a towel, as Brazil followed behind. Brazil was inducted into the WWF Hall of Fame in 1994.
source: wikipedia.org
Bobo Brazil vs Buddy Rogers
Houston "Bobo Brazil" Harris July 10, 1924 — January 20, 1998
This Day in Wrestling History
Mr. Perfect returns to the WWE for the 2002 Royal Rumble and lasts until the final four.
January 20, 2002
January 19, 2011
Kaval Vows 'I Won't Be Forgotten'
Fans of WWE are used to talent releases by now. While some of the releases are obvious, there are others that seem to come out of left field. Like Kaval.
The winner of the second season of NXT, Kaval had fan support and had been given a push by the company. But Kaval, whose real name is Brandon Silvestry and is best known on the indy circuit as Low Ki, states he actually pushed for his release from the company...More?
source: slam wrestling
20 Year GLOW Reunion
GLOW (the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling) was the first and only exclusively, all women wrestling show to ever appear on free television in the United States. Eventually it was broadcast via satellite to most parts of the world at one time or another. GLOW ran during the mid 1980′s. The GLOW Girls are looking forward to having a mini reunion in conjunction with the annual CAC reunion...More?
source: caulifloweralleyclub.org
Former RAW Guest Host Coming to WrestleMania
Rick Morris, host of The FDH Lounge on SportsTalkNetwork.com, confirmed on Twitter this morning that Bob Barker of Price is Right fame will be at WrestleMania 27 in Atlanta, Georgia this year.
Barker hosted RAW back in December of 2009 and was one of the most well-received hosts WWE had. Barker won a Slammy Award for Best RAW Host.
source: pwinsider.com
Linda McMahon Responds to Sen. Lieberman's Retirement Announcement
"Senator Lieberman announced today that he will not seek re-election. I believe he deserves our respect and appreciation for bringing a strong, independent and principled voice to Washington. Many people have asked me what my plans are. While running for the U.S. Senate in 2012 remains an option for me, I will spend ...the next few months focusing on how I can best serve the people of Connecticut."
This Day in Wrestling History
Hulk Hogan becomes the first ever 2 time winner of the WWF(E) Royal Rumble.
January 19, 1991
Ric Flair wins the Royal Rumble and the WWF(E) Heavyweight title
January 19, 1992
Shawn Michaels defeated Psycho Sid for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title
January 19, 1997
WWF(E) New York Restaurant opened in Times Square
January 19, 2000
January 18, 2011
WWE NXT Results: Ratted Out
Week seven results:
NXT Rookie Challenge: Derrick Bateman won the How Well Do You Know Your WWE Pro? (Four immunity points)
Chris Masters def. Byron Saxton
Derrick Bateman & Daniel Bryan def. Brodus Clay & Ted DiBiase
Ricardo Rodriguez def. Conor O’Brian
Conor O’Brian is eliminated from WWE NXT
NXT Rookie Records
Brodus Clay: Challenge points: 0, Win/loss record: 2-2
Byron Saxton: Challenge points: 0, Win/loss record: 3-3
Conor O’Brian (at the time of his elimination): Challenge points: 0, Win/loss record: 3-1
Derrick Bateman: Challenge points: 8, Win/loss record: 1-3
Johnny Curtis: Challenge points: 0, Win/loss record: 2-3
Rumor Mill - The Latest on the Return of Triple H
Sources within WWE are officially confirming that Triple H is fully healed from the surgery he had on his torn bicep muscle and that nothing else is preventing him from returning.
Incidentally, the details of his return are being "strategically discussed" and are being kept under wraps in order for him to make a big impact.
source: wrestlingnewssource.com
Kimbo Slice Tries Pro Wrestling, Forgoes Boxing
Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson has turned his back on competition entirely to embrace entertainment.
The former backyard brawler-turned-mixed-martial-artist will perform Feb. 5 in Japan during a professional wrestling bout with ex-sumo wrestler Shinichi "Wakakirin" Suzukawa, the Inoki Genome Federation announced Tuesday. Ferguson previously expressed interest in boxing after the Ultimate Fighting Championship released him last year, but his enthusiasm has been lacking, promoter Jared Shaw told MMA Fighting...More?
source: usatoday.com
Lieberman Retiring; McMahon Considering Run
Sen. Joe Lieberman, a former Democrat who angered the party by supporting Republican John McCain's presidential bid, reportedly will not run for re-election next year.
Unnamed Democratic sources in Connecticut told The Huffington Post that Lieberman will not seek a fifth term. The Washington Post also reported that Lieberman plans to retire, citing two Democratic sources familiar to the decision.
Republican Linda McMahon, who ran unsuccessfully for Connecticut's other Senate seat last year, has indicated she is open to running again in 2012. McMahon, former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, spent more than $40 million of her own money. She was defeated by Democrat Richard Blumenthal...More?
source: usatoday.com
Dave Lagana on What Vince McMahon Wants from Wrestling
Former WWE creative writer and current ROH producer/director David Lagana has a new blog post up on his new website IWantWrestling.com detailing what Vince McMahon wants out of wrestling and chronicling his experience with McMahon. Of importance to Vince:
1. Know Your Brand
2. What's Your Finish
3. No Sneezing
Need an explanation? Click here.
Randy Savage Confirmed for 'WWE All Stars' Video Game
IGN.com has confirmed that "Macho Man" Randy Savage will be in the new "WWE All Stars" video game - an arcade style game different from the "Smackdown vs. Raw" franchise.
Jim McMahon On Concussion Dangers: ‘You Think Nothing Can Bother You’
The hits just keep on coming for school age football players and other sports. Those hits can be catastrophic. Now the city of Chicago is taking action to protect young public school athletes and prevent concussions from doing serious damage, CBS 2’s Mike Parker reports.
A high school linebacker can possibly take 6,000 hits to the head during three seasons, and those hits can cause damage. Now a new Chicago law is on the books. Athletes at city schools who show signs of possible concussion cannot return to their sport without a doctor’s permission.
“When you’re young, you think nothing can bother you,” says former Chicago Bears quarterback and Super Bowl champion Jim McMahon. “You can injure your brain for the rest of your life.” He knows better now. McMahon says he noticed that after he retired, his memory started to go.
“I don’t think it’s chronic yet, but it’s frustrating when you walk into a room and you forget why the hell you went in there. You’ve got to start all over again,” he says.
It can get much worse. Boston University has studied the brains of 13 deceased pro football players. Twelve of the 13 had a disease that causes dementia. McMahon is now disclosing that when he dies, his brain will be donated to aid in this research...More?
source: cbs chicago
WWE Confirms 21 Names For The Royal Rumble Match
The following names have been confirmed by WWE.com as participants in this year's Royal Rumble Match:
Alberto Del Rio, CM Punk, "Dashing" Cody Rhodes, Daniel Bryan, Darren Young, David Hart Smith, David Otunga, Husky Harris, John Cena, John Morrison, Mark Henry, Michael McGuillicutty, Primo, R-Truth, Rey Mysterio, Sheamus, Ted DiBiase, Jr., Tyson Kidd, William Regal, Yoshi Tatsu, Zack Ryder
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Ted DiBiase
January 18, 1954
Happy Birthday to Dave Batista
January 18, 1969
Ivan Koloff defeated Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF(WWE) Heavyweight title
January 18, 1971
The Original Sheik passes away. The Sheik is the uncle of Sabu and also the trainer of Rob Van Damn and Sabu.
January 18, 2003
January 17, 2011
Raw Results: Prophet Motive
The main event pitted CM Punk against John Cena when a nameless colossus charged the ring and distracted the Cenation Commander-in-Chief. It would prove a costly diversion. Punk took advantage and hit his opponent with a punishing maneuver. Before Cena could recover, Punk stood before the interloper and sacrificed himself, allowing the oversized stranger to level him.
As a result, the leader of the “new” Nexus won the match by disqualification. When the remaining members of the group charged the ring, though, Punk waved them off. Instead, he pulled out a Nexus armband and slipped it onto the mystery man, who proceeded to genuflect before The Second City Savior. Full results.
source: wwe.com
Isis the Amazon to debut for Lucha Libre USA at TV tapings
Isis the Amazon (Aloisa), the near seven foot tall female wrestler who was released by WWE before her official debut on NXT, is now scheduled to debut at TV tapings for Lucha Libre USA this weekend in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.
source: pwinsider.com
