April 30, 2011
WWE Working With Beer Company
WWE has a new beer sponsorship with Miller and will be doing a promotion with their Keystone Light brand. WWE is looking to use some of their talents in the ads.
source: f4wonline.com
Photo: Triple H and Stephanie McMahon at the Launch of the Anti-Bullying Alliance Campaign “Be a STAR” in Washington, DC
This Day in Wrestling History
Superstar Billy Graham defeated Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF(WWE) Heavyweight title.
April 30, 1977
Greg Valentine defeated Roddy Piper for the NWA U.S. Heavyweight title
April 30, 1983
Chris Benoit defeated Booker T for the WCW Television title.
April 30, 1998
The Rock defeated Triple H for the WWF(E) Heavyweight title at Backlash at the MCI Center, Washington, DC.
April 30, 2000
April 29, 2011
Vince McMahon Asked By A Shareholder About Buying TNA
Vince was asked when he was going to "buy that company based in Nashville, TN because they have the wrong people running it. Please save the business from Dixie Carter." McMahon laughed. The stockholder said, "Stephanie has more brains than Dixie Carter has." They showed Triple H and Stephanie laughing at this development. The stockholder said that if WWE bought TNA now, there "was a shot at fixing that company." Vince said, "I don't know they are for sale." The stockholder said, "It's a 50/50 shot, they know you are loaded with money." McMahon said, "Maybe."
Rumor Mill - Michelle McCool Leaving WWE
PWInsider.com is reorting that Michelle McCool is finishing up with WWE, as she will participate in a Loser Leaves Smackdown Match against former Lay-Cool partner Layla El. Based on conversations with several wrestlers and a key WWE insider, this move has a lot to do with the fact The Undertaker is not scheduled for TV anytime soon.
McCool's tenure on Smackdown has been somewhat controversial, as she has not appeared on house shows, and only works TV tapings and pay per views. This preferential treatment rubbed a lot of the full time wrestlers the wrong way, especially since so many "part-timers" were in featured roles for WrestleMania (Michael Cole, Jerry Lawler, Trish Stratus, Vickie Guerrero, Snooki). To make matters worse, the Cole vs Lawler match went very long at WrestleMania, taking up valuable time that others could have used to put more of a spotlight on their own match. Agent - Producer Dean Malenko was the one who laid out the Lawler vs Cole match, and that touched off a whole locker room discussion about the part timers who get so much air time, when the house shows are hurting and pay checks are down because of it.
McCool is said to leave in WWE Chairman Vince McMahon's good graces, and is expected to return to television about the same time Undertaker appears again.
Vince, Stephanie & Triple H at the WWE Shareholders Meeting
Vince McMahon stressed that Triple H, who was labeled "Senior Advisor in the Chairman's office," heading up the new talent initiative will aim to draw in more international stars. The regular question about global expansion was brought up, but McMahon said they don't plan to have regional/global territories around the world because it would be difficult to set up.
WWE also stressed talent being the "lifeline" of the product and noted Hunter has been put in charge of "re-focusing on talent development," which WWE hopes will position the company for long-term growth.
source: pwtorch.com
Click here for more highlights. Click here to view the video of the meeting.
The Creative Coalition and WWE Launch Anti-Bullying Alliance
The Creative Coalition and WWE, announced today the launch of “be a STAR,” a multi-platform, nationwide anti-bullying alliance, in conjunction with the National Education Association Health Information Network (NEA HIN), GLAAD, True Educator Inc., Ad Council, Island Def Jam Music Group, Close Up Foundation and others...More?
WWE Pins 1 Million WrestleMania PPV Buys
Helped by some heavy hype from Dwayne ''The Rock'' Johnson and ''Jersey Shore's'' Snooki, WWE has reached its goal of 1 million pay-per-view buys again for WrestleMania.
Although final numbers are still being tallied, this year's live four-hour event, hosted April 3, in Atlanta, is already up 30% in North America and up to 15% overseas, according to the company...More?
source: variety.com
Karen Jarrett Allegedly a Victim of Sexual Harassment in TNA
Former WWE Intercontinental Champion The Honky Tonk Man posted the following Tweet on Monday: "Anyone who missed HTM's announcement on TNA tonight. Karen Angle vs Dixie Carter's husband is the sexual harassment lawsuit going down! That's why Dixie is off TV and Karen is now back with the company as part of the settlement."
His Tweet was in reference to statements he made during his weekly podcast this past Monday night where he claimed that Karen Jarrett is the victim of a sexual harassment lawsuit which she filed against TNA Wrestling.
According to Honky Tonk Man, Jarrett was sexually harassed by TNA President Dixie Carter's husband Serge Salinas, and part of the lawsuit settlement was that Jarrett be given her TNA job back, which is why she rejoined the company and returned to TV. Furthermore, HTM claimed that Dixie Carter was taken off TNA TV earlier this year due to the lawsuit. You can check out HTM's podcast if you click here.
source: wrestlezone.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Steve Austin & Triple H defeated Undertaker & Kane to win the WWF(E) Tag Team Titles.
April 29, 2001
Former AWA, Portland Wrestling, and WWF(E) star Playboy Buddy Rose (Paul Perschmann) died.
April 29, 2009
April 28, 2011
Triple H to Make an Appearance at World Academy in Nashua, NH
World Academy, the school that Paul Levesque's sister Lynn Ouellette is a director at, issued the following press release:
STREETER AND LEVESQUE PARTNER to BENEFIT GBO AND WORLD ACADEMY
World Academy, formerly known as The World Schools, in conjunction with The Gordon B. Ouellette Memorial Fund, will host the first annual GBO Memorial Fund Spring Gala on Friday, May 6th 2011 from 7pm to 11pm at the Nashua Radisson’s Ashwood Court off Spit Brook Road in South Nashua. The GBO Fund exists, in loving memory of the late Gordon Ouellette of Nashua, to ensure that access to the exceptional educational experience offered at World Academy is available to all students and families who improve the quality of the community at World Academy, regardless of financial circumstances.
The evening is planned as a fun and festive celebration, with light appetizers, music and dancing, and will mark the first-ever live culmination to the school’s annual Silent Auction. Nashua’s own Bernie Streeter and NH native Paul Levesque of the WWE will be in attendance as Auctioneers, providing what World Academy’s Marketing Manager Jenny Smith envisions as a fun and entertaining finale to the fundraising effort...More?
WWE Announces Revised Dividend Policy
WWE today announced a revised dividend policy to enhance the Company’s financial flexibility and support the “New WWE” initiative. Beginning in June of 2011, the Company’s quarterly dividend will be adjusted to $0.12 per share of common stock held by the Company’s Class A public shareholders. Members of the McMahon family will also receive dividends in the revised per share amount and, as a result, all Class A and Class B shares will receive dividends in the amount of $0.12 per share.
“Our Board of Directors has determined that an adjustment to the current dividend is both prudent and appropriate,” stated Vince McMahon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We believe this change strikes the right balance between returning capital to shareholders and investing in our future. We are confident that WWE is ideally positioned to create long term value for our shareholders.”
“The Company’s revised quarterly dividend was set based on targeted ranges for payout ratios and liquidity levels,” stated George Barrios, Chief Financial Officer. “Aligning payouts with our current level of earnings and cash flow will significantly enhance our financial flexibility, support our current growth initiatives, and enable us to take advantage of important strategic opportunities in a quickly changing media landscape, including executing on our ‘New WWE’ initiative.”
WWE’s management and Board remain committed to delivering value for the Company’s shareholders, and the revised dividend will continue to return significant cash to its investors. The revised quarterly payout of $0.12 per share provides a yield of 4.2% based on the April 28 stock price, representing an approximate 130% premium to the S&P 500. Further, the Board will continue to review the Company’s dividend policy on an ongoing basis, including the appropriateness of one-time returns of capital.
Details on WWE Cable Network
The planned WWE cable network is going to be a big part of the company re-branding that is going on. The idea is that they are doing their own network and don't want it seen as a pro wrestling TV channel.
WWE is looking to air scripted programming and other programming that they can use their marketing concepts with. This would include marketing the characters and even touring with the new shows. The Harlem Globetrotters would be a perfect fit for this new concept but they aren't doing sports right now. The concept was described as something like High School Musical or Dora the Explorer where you have a program, you merchandise the characters and go on tour.
WWE is also looking at using people like Drew Carey to come up with programming ideas.
The WWE network will feature a lot of wrestling still, with a lot of old footage airing. WWE is currently digitizing some of their footage and trying to upgrade it to HD for the network. The network will also show programs like NXT, Superstars and some of the recap shows that air internationally.
source: wrestling observer newsletter
Media Moguls With Pay Compensation NOT Out-Of-Whack
3. World Wrestling Entertainment: Kevin Dunn. Talk about a smackdown. The company still doesn’t appear to have a distributor for the WWE Network cable channel it’s been talking about launching for more than a year. The company’s stock price declined 7.5%. And Connecticut’s Attorney General, Democrat Richard Blumenthal, defeated former WWE CEO Linda McMahon, the Republican candidate, in their contest to replace Chris Dodd in the U.S. Senate. Dunn, the EVP for Television Production, saw his salary decline 9.8% to $1.8 million ($746,154 salary, $680,400 stock awards, $351,000 cash equity, and $8,000 in other compensation). That's just 1.5 times higher than the average for WWE’s 4 other top executives.
Click here for the full list.
source: deadline.com
More on TNA Re-Branding and Possible Name Change
In a further update to the news that TNA Wrestling was possibly looking to re-brand their company in some form, it has been announced that the company has filed a trademark on the term "Impact Wrestling".
The wrestling news site Impactwrestling.com had their domain name acquired by TNA Wresting. Impactwrestling.com is now AllWrestling.com.
partial source: wrestlingnewssource.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Owen Hart defeated Rocky Maivia(The Rock) for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
April 28, 1997
Wrestling legend, Lou Thesz, passes away at the age of 86.
April 28, 2002
April 27, 2011
World Wrestling Grapples With Competitive Threat
WWEs Unsustainable Dividends
Boasting a ravishing 12% yield, WWE's Class A dividend may be cut as early as the Q1 report on May 5. WWE earned 71 cents per share for all of 2010, while paying out a 36 cent dividend per quarter. Unless profit grows or the controlling McMahon family waives their Class B shares, the dividend must be cut and the shares will tumble further.
Several operational factors are making WWE an unattractive accidental high yielder. In fourth quarter of 2011, operating income declined by 22% and earnings fell as live event attendance dropped 15% in North America. Like WWE, Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE:LYV) is another company that depends on gate revenues, which experienced a difficult 2010. That might mean it was simply a down year for most companies that host live events. Unfortunately, a business that is closely related to WWE battled its way to a great year - and that doesn't speak well for WWE.
UFC Slams Wrestling
WWE dominates a very niche segment of the entertainment market, but professional wrestling is grappling with privately held Ultimate Fighting Championship's growing shadow. Some argue that the two companies don't compete with each other; that one is sports (UFC) and the other is sports entertainment (WWE). This is not true. Fans are clearly crossing over from the WWE's ring to the UFC's octagon
Here We Go Again
In addition to competitive pressures from the UFC, investors need to be concerned about WWE's intentions to diversify away from the ring. On April 7, World Wrestling Entertainment officially rebranded itself as "WWE." The new company will be a diversified entertainment company, featuring a TV network with scripted and reality shows, and animated programs, along with wrestling events. The concern for investors is that WWE has a dubious history of businesses outside core wrestling operations. The failed XFL football league and wrestling-themed restaurant in New York City do not portend well for WWE's latest attempt at reincarnation.
The Bottom Line
The impact of WWE's rebranding won't be fully realized until the details of a potential TV deal are released. In the meantime, investors should prepare themselves right away for a shock when the dividend gets slammed...More?
source: investopedia.com
Kevin Nash Gives Update On Scott Hall's Condition
Kevin Nash posted the following on his official Twitter: "BTW: just talked to Scott. He was watching the Bulls game and sounded ok to me."
Scott Hall's ex-wife, Dana, has still been very vocal on her own Twitter page and had a different opinion of Scott's condition after a recent phone call: "We finally got him 2 answer phone, NOT a nice call, basically he could care less about kids/getting well- he was drinking".
Dana has even been sending links of her recent open letter printed in the Post and Courier to Dog the Bounty Hunter, Dr. Drew, Shawn Michaels, Kevin Nash, Sean Waltman and even TMZ, begging for their help with the situation.
source: wrestlezone.com
Chris Jericho Eliminated from DWTS
Chris Jericho and his dance partner Cheryl Burke were eliminated from ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" earlier tonight. Jericho wrote on Twitter:
"Had an amazing time on DWTS! Thx @cherylburke for being a great teacher and friend and Thx to all of u for voting-6 weeks ain't too shabby!"
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Frank Gotch
April 27, 1878 - December 16, 1917
Frank Gotch is truly one of the original pioneers of professional wrestling. Long before the money, fame, and glitz of modern wrestling, long before the post WWII boom of Gorgeous George and "TV wrestling," before Lou Thesz, before Ed "Strangler" Lewis, before there was even a such thing as a "federation" in wrestling, there was Frank Gotch.
During this fleeting time of legitimacy in wrestling, Gotch was renowned for his great skill and power, despite his deceivingly small stature, and became perhaps wrestling's first true box-office attraction. As crafty and ruthless as he was skilled, Gotch held the undisputed World Title until he retired, undefeated as champion. His professional record was an impressive 132 victories out of 140 total matches...with several of his losses coming in handicapped matches. His bouts with Hackenschmidt, Jenkins, Stanislaus Zbysko and others were truly legendary...and can be traced back to the earliest days of what we now know as professional wrestling...More?
source: wrestlingmuseum.com
April 26, 2011
WWE 2011 Supplemental Draft
1. Daniel Bryan to SmackDown
2. Jack Swagger to Raw
3. The Great Khali to SmackDown
4. Ranjin Singh to SmackDown
5. Jimmy Uso to SmackDown
6. Kelly Kelly to Raw
7. JTG to Raw
8. Alicia Fox to SmackDown
9. William Regal to SmackDown
10. Yoshi Tatsu to SmackDown
11. Drew McIntyre to Raw
12. Curt Hawkins to Raw
13. Chris Masters to Raw
14. Natalya to SmackDown
15. Jey Uso to SmackDown
16. Kofi Kingston to Raw
17. Ted DiBiase to SmackDown
18. Tyler Reks to Raw
19. Tyson Kidd to SmackDown
20. Tamina to SmackDown
21. Alex Riley to SmackDown
22. Beth Phoenix to Raw
23. Sheamus to SmackDown
John Cena Sidesteps WWE Draft Move
John Cena was moved to SmackDown in a fascinating WWE draft special — but returned to Raw within two hours.
The nine-time world champion was the first name announced as shifting from the red brand to its blue counterpart after Smackdown's Big Show and Kofi Kingston won a battle royal to open this week's Raw.
However, in the main event — a match Cena actually competed in for SmackDown — the red team of The Miz, CM Punk and newly-drafted Alberto Del Rio emerged victorious, earning another pick.
This turned out to be Cena, who destroyed the heels and celebrated to close the show...More?
source: the sun
WWE Changes Autograph Policy
WWE recently issued a memo to talents, notifying them that they can no longer sign autographs on money, clothing or people's skin. This comes after a top WWE star recently signed a fans' expensive leather jacket. The next day, an angry parent called WWE officials and complained that the jacket was ruined, forcing WWE to reimburse the parent for the jacket.
source: pwinsider.com
Rumor Mill - CM Punk Leaving WWE?
Apparently Punk has also been telling people close to him that he's interested in taking some time off. He is burnt out from being on the road and may not re-sign when his contract is up.
Jim Ross Injured at Raw
WWE announcer Jim Ross commented on his hand injury suffered during his match against Michael Cole on Monday's Raw episode.
"Hand's throbbing. Xrays tues. Cole's tooth went to the bone on my fist. Not an artistic masterpiece. Dropping bombs. Leather straps sun. Ugh," Ross posted on his Twitter page following Raw.
source: pwtorch.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Ed "Strangler" Lewis goes to a two hour draw with Joe Stecher at Madison Square Garden.
April 26, 1918
Happy Birthday to Kane (Glen Jacobs)
April 26, 1967
Sting defeated Diamond Dallas Page for the WCW Title. That same night, DDP regained the title defeating Sting, Bill Goldberg and Hulk Hogan.
April 26, 1999
April 25, 2011
WWE 2011 Draft Results
1. John Cena to SmackDown
2. Rey Mysterio to Raw
3. Randy Orton to SmackDown
4. Mark Henry to SmackDown
5. Sin Cara to SmackDown
6. Big Show to Raw
7. Alberto Del Rio to Raw
8. John Cena drafted back to Raw
The Supplemental Draft will take place tomorrow afternoon at Noon ET (11:00 a.m. CT).
Theme for the May 2nd Raw; The Rock's Birthday Celebration
The following was released by WWE.com:
"Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, "The Most Electrifying Man In All of Entertainment," finally returns to his hometown of Miami. One week from tonight on May 2, The Rock will celebrate his birthday with celebrities, thousands of WWE fans and all of WWE's Superstars and Divas at the American Airlines Arena for Monday Night Raw.
WWE promises this will be the most raucous, entertaining and electrifying birthday celebration in the history of Miami. And what is a birthday without a few special surprises? The WWE Divas promise to give The Rock a birthday present he will never forget. Will The Miz spoil the celebration and blow out the Rock's candles? Who will pop out of the cake? Who will sing "Happy Birthday"? Will John Cena give The Rock a present, if so what could it be?"
Batista's MMA Deal with Strikeforce is Dead
Ex-WWE superstar Batista WON'T be crushing anyone's face in an MMA ring anytime soon -- because the human freak show says his deal with Strikeforce is officially kaput.
The 6'6", 290-pounder was lumbering through LAX this weekend when he explained that his deal fell through the cracks when the UFC bought out Strikeforce before they could schedule his first fight.
Batista told our guy he's "real disappointed" with the way things turned out ... adding, "I really had my heart set on Strikeforce."
source: tmz.com
Wrestler Comments on No 'Wrestling' in WWE
WWE developmental star Seth Rollins, the former Tyler Black, was asked by a fan what he thinks about WWE not wanting to be referred to as a professional wrestling company. Rollins replied with the following:
"I think you have to understand the idea of it. I was skeptical at first too, but it's all a marketing scheme. When push comes to shove WWE will always be professional wrestling, but they are branching out and doing so much more nowadays that the word "wrestling" really pigeonholes the brand...so eliminating the word expands the brand and creates many new avenues to go down."
Glad somebody else gets it...
Rumor Mill - Medical Status of Desmond Wolfe
Randy Ricci, a former production manager for TNA Wrestling, claimed in a blog post on Friday that he heard the reason Desmond Wolfe has not been wrestling in recent months is because he has Hepatitis C—a viral disease that leads to inflammation of the liver. He added that he hopes it's not true.
Ricci says he heard the former ROH World Champion will be offered an office job.
Wolfe last wrestled for the organization in August. He and Magnus were scheduled to receive a shot at the TNA World Tag Team Championship against The Motor City Machine Guns at No Surrender, but were pulled from the event at the last minute, with TNA citing a "personal issue" as the reason. It was later reported that Wolfe was pulled from the event due to an undisclosed medical situation that would sideline him indefinitely.
Hulk Hogan is the only TNA Wrestling employee to publicly address Wolfe's status with the organization. When asked recently on Twitter about Wolfe returning to television, Hogan responded, "Desmond's situation is beyond TNA's control, the ball is completely in his court."
source: allwrestling.com
GA Lobbyists Spend Close to $1 Million During Session Including WrestleMania Tickets
It was a year of tough budget cuts at the Capitol this year. So some lawmakers early this month blew off steam with a little Wrestlemania, courtesy of a couple well-connected lobbyists.
Financing the Wrestlemania tickets were lobbyists for the Georgia World Congress Center and Comcast. The cable provider was deeply interested in a tax overhaul that would have slapped a tax on cable TV bills. The bill died...More?
source: daltondailycitizen.com
Top Twenty Moments in Baltimore Wrestling History
Top Moments 1-10
Top Moments 11-20
16. ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER LAYS THE SMACK DOWN ON TRIPLE H (1999): Schwarzenegger, who was at SmackDown to promote his latest movie, sat in on commentary during the eight-man tag team main event that pitted The Rock, Test, Kane and Shane McMahon against DX (Triple H, The Road Dogg, Billy Gunn and X-Pac), with “Stone Cold” Steve Austin as the special enforcer referee. Schwarzenegger got involved in the finish. He handed a chair to Austin, who blasted Triple H over the head with it, allowing Test to score the winning pinfall. After the match, Triple H took a swing at Schwarzenegger, who ducked and then proceeded to beat down “The Game.”
To watch the end of the match and the post-match angle, click here.
source: ring posts
This Day in Wrestling History
In a very surprising move by WCW, David Arquette pinned Eric Bischoff in a tag team match to become the new WCW Champion that saw Arquette team with DDP against Bischoff & Jeff Jarrett. He vacated the title six days later on May 1.
April 25, 2000
April 24, 2011
Wrestling Legends to Attend PWHF-X
The PWHF is pleased to welcome the following wrestling legends who will be joining us for the PWHF-X Induction:
Rob Van Dam, Mick Foley, Jeff Jarrett, Tommy Dreamer, Road Warrior Animal, Paul Ellering, J.J. Dillon, Doink Ray Apollo, Ivan Koloff, Billy Robinson, Nick Bockwinkel, The Destroyer, Dominic DeNucci, Mae Young, Donna Christenello, Larry Sharpe, Little Tokyo, Pistol Pete Sanchez, Irish Davey O'Hannon, Hillbilly Luke, Danny Hodge, Referee Dick Whoerle, Butcher Paul Vachon, Bugsy Mc Graw, Joyce Grable, Mark Lewin,Samoa Joe, Mr. Anderson, Mickie James, Matt Morgan, Pope D'Angelo Dinero.
Click here for more info on the PWHF Induction Weekend Events
Abdullah the Butcher Fires Back at Superstar Billy Graham on WWE HOF
In a recent interview with The Ottawa Sun, Abdullah the Butcher discussed recent comments by "Superstar" Billy Graham that he didn't belong in the WWE Hall of Fame.
"I helped Superstar Billy Graham when he was in Calgary. I loaned him money. For him to say I shouldn't be in the Hall of Fame is wrong. I still think he's a nice guy, but he doesn't know what he's talking about. What shouldn't I be in the Hall. They put Drew Carey in. What's wrong with me? I drew money all over the world?"
This Day in Wrestling History
April 24, 1922
Better known as Blue Demon (Demonio Azul in Spanish), Munoz was a Mexican luchador Enmascarado (Masked professional wrestler) who was widely considered to be one of the greatest Mexican wrestlers of his time. He was affectionately referred to as "Blue" and was known for his signature blue wrestling mask.
Johnny Valentine passes away.
April 24, 2001
Buddy Rogers vs. Johnny Valentine - 1953
Johnny Valentine (born John Theodore Wisniski, September 22, 1928–April 24, 2001) was a professional wrestler with a career spanning almost three decades. He has been inducted into four halls of fame for his achievements in wrestling. Wisniski is the father of professional wrestler Greg "The Hammer" Valentine.
He held numerous world champion and regional titles, including the NWA United States Championship and the World Heavyweight title. He had long running rivalries with Bobo Brazil, Pat O'Connor, Buddy Rogers, Antonio Rocca, Lou Thesz, Harley Race, The Sheik, Wahoo McDaniel, Fritz von Erich, Bruno Sammartino, Johnny Powers, Antonio Inoki and Jack & Jerry Brisco. He alternated between being a villain and a hero during the Golden Era in the 1940s through 1960s of wrestling.
In 1975, he was injured in a plane crash; he suffered a broken back and was forced to retire from wrestling. He worked briefly as a manager before retiring altogether. He suffered from several health problems during his career, which worsened considerably after a fall in 2000. He died the following year.
source: wikipedia.org
April 23, 2011
Senator that defeated Linda McMahon says he is working on "Worker Misclassification" legislation
U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal says he's supporting legislation in Washington that would curb the practice of worker misclassification in hopes of creating a level playing field for workers and businesses.
Worker misclassification came up during Blumenthal's 2010 Senate campaign when it was revealed World Wrestling Entertainment was being investigated by the state for possible violations. Linda McMahon, the Republican candidate, is the former CEO of WWE. McMahon at the time questioned whether the audit was politically motivated...More?
source: newstimes.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to:
Tony Atlas
April 23, 1956
Terry Gordy
April, 23, 1961
John Cena
April 23, 1977
Sting & Lex Luger, managed by Magnum T.A., win the third, and final, Jim Crockett Sr. Memorial Cup tag team tournament in Greensboro, North Carolina by defeating Tully Blanchard & Arn Anderson.
April 23, 1988
Curt Hennig defeated Tito Santana in a tournament final for his first WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
April 23, 1990
April 22, 2011
Scott Hall's Ex-Wife Dana Says She's Done
The following was posted on WrestleZone.com's Facebook page by Scott Hall's ex-wife and mother of his two children, Dana:
"Kevin [Nash] has so kindly offered to take over running the "insane asylum" and his friend now, and to take care of some unfinished business concerning our children legally...he saw his son, so at least a little bit of my goal in this got accomplished. There is ALOT to do, and pray Kev can pull it off? My "rose-colored" glasses were smashed along time ago, and been fooled by Scott's big smile ALOT of times before. I was hoping for more of a tough love intervention to happen and thought that was what was desperately needed by his best friend and son, but Kevin felt it "wasn't the time" so I will have to trust he's right?
Kevin Nash Gives An Update On Scott Hall
Kevin Kevin Nash posted the following on his twitter page:
"Spent the night with Scott tonight at the hospital,along with his son,He's lost a lot of weight,but the smile on his face was priceless"
April 21, 2011
Kevin Nash's Blog About Scott Hall
Remember Wrestlers are People, JUST Like YOU
Over the last few weeks, since the horrifying New England appearance of Scott Hall, my Twitter page has blown up with plea’s to help Scott. First of all, nobody has to ASK me to help Scott Hall. I consider Scott like a brother. He’s much more than a friend. I have spent more time with Scott Hall in the last 18 years than I have with my wife in the 23 years we’ve been married. We have no secrets between each other. This is ‘real life’. Nobody knows what Scott has gone thru since early childhood to what he has gone thru up unto this point, except for me. I can tell you Scott Hall has neither a drug or alcohol addiction, Scott’s problem is he suffer’s from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Drugs and alcohol aren’t the problem, to Scott they are the solution. He is a fragile and broken human being...More?
source: kevinnash.tumblr.com
Dana Lee Hall's tweets
This Day in Wrestling History
Ken Patera defeated Pat Patterson for the WWWF(WWE) Intercontinental title.
April 21, 1980
Hulk Hogan defeated Triple H for the WWF(E) Unified Heavyweight title.
April 21, 2002
April 20, 2011
Video: Triple H at the O2 Arena
Triple H talks about his new film, 'The Chaperone' outside the O2 Arena, London, England
The World School Preparing for the Gordon B. Ouellette Memorial Spring Gala
Lynn Ouellette, Paul Levesque's sister, is a Director at The World School in Nashua, NH. They are preparing for a spring gala in memory of her late husband, Gordon B. Ouellette. The following is from their facebook page:
Come and dance the night away! Join the Faculty and Staff of World Academy at The Gordon B. Ouellette Memorial Spring Gala. The gala, to be held Friday, May 6th from 7pm to 11pm at the Radisson Hotel just down the street, will be a unique opportunity to celebrate the incredible adult community of World Academy and share in fun and lighthearted evening!
The Gordon B. Ouellette Memorial Fund is named in memory of the late Gordon B. Ouellette, father of former student Peter and current student, Neysa Ouellette. This fund was set up in his name to provide financial assistance for deserving students who demonstrate high academic achievement, character, financial need and a family commitment to The World Schools. The Fund was started in 2008 after his sudden passing due to heart illness.
The World School
Jeff Hardy's Drug Possession Case Has Been Continued...Again
TNA Wrestling star Jeff Hardy was scheduled to appear in court to face charges stemming from his September 2009 arrest, however the case was once again continued.
The case was continued because the defense attorney had been trying to get in contact with the county's Sentencing Services Program. The Sentencing Services Program reviews cases and makes a recommendation of rehab instead of jail time if appropriate. It appears as though he'll either face limited jail time or probation/rehab no matter what.
The case has been continued until June 27th
Kurt Angle Sentenced For Recent Reckless Driving Arrest
The pro wrestler found apparently intoxicated behind the wheel of his vehicle in a ditch south of Grand Forks last month has been sentenced for reckless driving. Angle didn't appear in the courtroom before the judge who sentenced him Friday to a year of probation and fines and 10 days, all suspended, in jail...More?
source: twincities.com
Bret Hart: WWE Will Always Be About Wrestling
WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart has admitted he is confused at the company's decision to distance themselves from the term 'wrestling'.
Last week WWE chairman Vince McMahon ruled that the group's name no longer stands for World Wrestling Entertainment and instructed all employees not to use the W word again.
However, in the second part of SunSport's world exclusive interview with Hart, The Hitman says he can't see why the change has been made.
Hart told us: "I'm kind of scratching my head about that. I don't know that it makes any difference. Wrestling is wrestling. Call it whatever name you want, it's still wrestling.
"I think WWE is synonymous with wrestling. If WWE doesn't stand for World Wrestling Entertainment then what does it stand for? It may be a case of Vince trying to monopolise wrestling even more than he has...More?
And that's a bad thing? I don't understand the logic of criticizing someone for trying to expand their business.
I also don't see what the big deal is about this "re-branding". Vince McMahon has been saying since 1988 that he is in the entertainment business. That's how he responded to Ted Turner when Turner informed him that he was getting in to the wrestling business. This is simply an attempt at adding revenue streams. WWE has added the Talent Development department so they are obviously aware that wrestling is their core business.
This Day in Wrestling History - Rick Rude Passes Away
Rick Rude of dies of a heart attack at age 40.
April 20, 1999
Richard Erwin Rood
December 7, 1958 – April 20, 1999
This Day in Wrestling History
Triple H defeated Taz in the first match between a WWF(E) heavyweight Champion and an ECW Heavyweight Champion
April 20, 2000
April 19, 2011
WWE Magazine Offered in Digital Format
"WWE Magazine” enters the digital age. Get exclusive wallpapers, vintage vignettes, an interactive quiz and a real-time fan poll! Be a part of history and download "WWE Magazine's" first-ever digital issue today for only 99 cents! Click here.
www.wwe.com
Anti-Smoking Advocate Demands Apology From R-Truth; WWE Responds
The executive director of TobaccoFree.org is demanding an apology from R-Truth after the angle on Monday's WWE Raw episode where Truth lit up a cigarette, according to a report by TMZ.
Executive director Patrick Reynolds told TMZ: "For him to smoke in front of (children) is irresponsible. At best, it's thoughtless, and at worst, if he calculated appealing to kids by posing as a bad-boy outlaw, it's evil."
WWE issued a statement to TMZ in response: "The negative effect smoking has on one’s health and physical performance was a part of a storyline on last night’s Monday Night Raw. Negative depictions of tobacco use on television are not unusual and can be seen on other TV-PG shows."
source: pwtorch.com
This is beyond ridiculous.
This Day in Wrestling History
The first Jim Crockett Sr. Memorial Cup tag team tournament is held. The Road Warriors win the one million dollar prize.
April 19, 1986
April 18, 2011
Weicker to Leave WWE Board of Directors
Lowell Weicker Jr. is leaving his cushy post on the corporate board of Vince and Linda McMahon's wrestling empire.
"I'm not standing for re-election," Weicker told Greenwich Time Monday of ending his longtime tenure on the board. "I think that's just a mutual decision."
A former Republican three-term senator who went on to become Connecticut's governor as an independent from 1991 to 1995, Weicker initially would not comment on whether politics precipitated his breakup with WWE.
Weicker, 79, endorsed Democrat Christopher Dodd in last year's Senate race, which was eventually won by Democrat Richard Blumenthal over Republican Linda McMahon after the incumbent opted to forgo re-election.
"The two things are entirely separate," Weicker later answered. "Being on the board and politics are entirely separate matters. I wouldn't sit on its board of directors unless I was proud of the company, and I am."...More?
source: greenwichtime.com
Rumor Mill - Awesome Kong's WWE Persona
According to a report by PWInsider.com, former TNA Knockouts Champion Awesome Kong will go under the name "Kharma" when she officially debuts for WWE. The company filed a trademark for the name last week on April 12.
Japanese Promotions Team Up for Earthquake Fund
New Japan, All Japan, and NOAH to host their first ever joint show on August 27th at Tokyo Nippon Budokan called "ALL TOGETHER"! All proceeds from the event will go to the Japan earthquake fund, and we will see wrestlers from the top three promotions of Japan together, reports Stuart Marshall.
2011 WWE Draft Set for Next Monday
The entire roster of WWE Superstars and Divas will take part in the 2011 WWE Draft next week, April 25, on MONDAY NIGHT RAW live on USA Network at 9/8c.
In a thrilling night of television, all WWE Superstars and Divas, including WWE Champion The Miz, John Cena, Randy Orton, Rey Mysterio, Big Show, Alberto Del Rio and SinCara along with WWE Divas Champion Brie Bella, Eve and Kelly Kelly could be drafted to either RAW or SmackDown.
After Monday Night's momentous draft, John Cena could be on "Friday Night Smackdown," which airs each week on Syfy at 8/7c and Rey Mysterio could be coming to MONDAY NIGHT RAW.
The Annual WWE Draft is a chance to renew old rivalries or have WWE Superstars face off against each other for the very first time, bringing a new and fresh feel to each show.
Mickie James Becomes Triple Crown Champion
Mickie James defeated Madison Rayne at last night's TNA Lockdown PPV to become the new Knockouts champion. Mickie James is now a "triple crown champion" by winning the WWE Women's Championship, WWE Divas Championship and TNA Knockouts Championship.
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to "The Brooklyn Brawler" Steve Lombardi.
April 18, 1961
Wahoo McDaniel passes away due to a stroke at the age of 63.
April 18, 2002
April 17, 2011
Wrestler Spurned By WWE Still Wrestling
The phone call hit Devon Nicholson like a folding chair to the side of the head.
Bleary-eyed and behind the wheel of his green 1997 Toyota Tercel, he had just completed a 15-hour drive from Ottawa to Edmundston, N.B., where he was putting up posters for a future wrestling show, the first week of September in 2009.
Two months after shocking news that Nicholson had tested positive for Hepatitis C, the voice on the other end of the cellphone told him a three-year WWE contract offer had been yanked off the table. Devon Nicholson claims to have gotten Hepatitis C from Abdullah the Butcher, but he is still wrestling...More?
source: slam wrestling
WWE Hire Popular Soap Opera Writer As Part Of Creative Team
Tom Casiello, mostly known for his writing on the popular soap opera, The Young and the Restless, announced on his twitter account that he would be heading to the WWE:
“Folks, I’ll spill. Going to the WWE. A TREMENDOUS opportunity, where I get to write,travel, produce, direct & work in LIVE TV. SOOO excited! I am beyond ecstatic. It’s a whole new world, that I never envisioned for myself, but makes sense: the best of soaps & comic books combined”.
Casiello has also had time as a writer for As the World Turns, Days of Our Lives and One Life to Live. He won the 2001 and 2002 Daytime Emmy Award for Best Writing on As the World Turns, was nominated in 2005 for a Writers Guild of America Award for his work on One Life to Live and was nominated once again in 2006 at the Daytime Emmy Awards for Best Writing for his work on One Life to Live.
Casiello is set to link up with the WWE crew this Monday in London, England as the company tape WWE Monday Night RAW from the o2 Arena in London, England. Casiello will also be present at the WWE Friday Night SmackDown TV tapings on Tuesday, also held at the o2 Arena in London, England.
source: wrestlingpronews.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Rowdy Roddy Piper (Roderick George Toombs)
April 17, 1951
Adrian Adonis & Dick Murdoch defeated Tony Atlas & Rocky Johnson for the WWWF(WWE) Tag Team title
April 17, 1984
WCW filed suit in Fulton County Superior Court against Ric Flair for breech of contract
April 17, 1998
Mickie James becomes a "triple crown champion" by winning the TNA Knockouts Championship at the Lockdown ppv. She had previously won the WWE Women's Championship and the WWE Divas Championship.
April 17, 2011
April 16, 2011
National Geographic Channel Filming At Next EVOLVE iPPV
NatGeo, The National Geographic cable network will be filming at this Tuesday's EVOLVE iPPV. They will be following several of the talents featured. The filming is part of an upcoming story on independent wrestlers trying to make it in the business.
The full lineup for the ppv, which takes place at BB Kings in New York City, is below:
Austin Aries vs. Jon Moxley in Moxley's final independent appearance
Chuck Taylor vs. Akira Tozawa
Jimmy Jacobs vs. Shiima Xion
Johnny Gargano vs. Jon Davis
Jigsaw & Frightmare vs. Facade & Jason Gory
Sami Callihan vs. Zack Sabre Jr
AR Fox vs. Rich Swann
Silas Young vs. Tony Nese
source: pwinsider.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Joe Stecher defeats Ed "Strangler" Lewis to retain the world title in just over three hours.
April 16, 1920
Chris Benoit wins the first ever "Super J Cup" junior heavyweight tournament in New Japan Pro Wrestling
April 16, 1994
Triple H defeated Jeff Hardy for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title
April 16, 2001
April 15, 2011
SmackDown Results: Opportunity Lost and Found
Four days after World Heavyweight Champion Edge announced his shocking retirement from WWE, The Rated-R Superstar officially surrendered the World Heavyweight Championship. And Christian honored his lifelong friend by capturing the opportunity to face No. 1 contender Alberto Del Rio for the vacant World Title at Extreme Rules. Full results.
This Day in Wrestling History
Stanislaus Zbyszko defeats Wayne "Big" Munn for the World championship in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania when promoter Tony Stecher double crosses promoters Billy Sandow and Ed White. Zbyszko shoots on Munn to take the title. The referee, who was on the Sandow-White-Lewis payroll, is forced to count two falls after Zbyszko pins Munn several times in the match, just to keep the crowd from rioting. Munn remains recognized in some areas as champion.
April 15, 1925
Did Andre the Giant Once Try Out for the Washington Redskins?
The late André René Roussimoff was best known as the stage name he worked under as a professional wrestler - Andre the Giant. The French-born legend was one of the early stars of the World Wide Wrestling Federation/World Wrestling Federation (WWWF/WWF) in the late 1970s and early 1980s, preceding Hulk Hogan as the main "babyface" wrestler (wrestling term for the "good guy" wrestlers) for the WWF. He gained even more fame when he appeared in the 1987 classic hit film The Princess Bride as the gentle giant, Fezzik. At seven feet four inches and nearly five hundred pounds (a result of gigantism), Roussimoff was an imposing and surprisingly athletic figure who marveled fans for years before his untimely death in 1993 at the age of 46 due to congestive heart failure.
His athleticism (and size) has led to a persistent legend that Roussimoff tried out for the Washington Redskins and their coach, George Allen, offered him a contract to play in the National Football League (NFL) in 1975.
As the story goes, after the tryout, Roussimoff ultimately decided to pass on the deal, changing not only his professional legacy but perhaps NFL history, as well.
Is that true, though? Click here.
source: latimes.com
April 14, 2011
Update on TNA Re-Branding and Possible Name Change
TNA officials have been discussing re-branding the company which will focus more on the word "impact". This doesn't necessarily mean they will be changing their name but they will be pushing the "impact" brand of the show harder and will have a bit of a different look for TV. TNA changing their name has been discussed for months but Dixie Carter has always been against it because they have spent so many years marketing the name.
source: wrestling observer newsletter
Rumor Mill - Jeff Hardy to Enter Rehab?
Several wrestling sites are reporting that TNA and Spike TV officials are urging Jeff Hardy to enter rehab.
New Home for WWE Superstars Television Show
WWE Superstars will air on wwe.com, Thursdays at 4:00pm CT. The show lost their timeslot on the WGN network earlier this month.
More on Triple H's Changes for WWE
F4WOnline.com reports that one of Triple H’s first goals as the head of WWE’s new talent development initiative is to assure wrestlers are given momentum prior to their introductions on live television.
The feeling is that names like Mason Ryan, who had the potential to get over big stars, fell flat with audiences due to the fact that they were rushed to television before they were ready and without ample promotion.
Awesome Kong, for example, is receiving the introductory vignettes to build anticipation for her debut. Triple H is said to be a big supporter of the idea to hype debuting talent in this manner.
The F4W story adds that Triple H has other ideas for improving talent development, all of which are expected to be implemented imminently.
