June 4, 2013
June 3, 2013
All Upcoming CHIKARA Dates Cancelled
PWInsider.com is reporting that all upcoming CHIKARA dates have been officially canceled according to their website.
As we noted, it appears the satellite "Wrestling Is..." promotions and Kaiju Big Battel will eventually replace the existing dates, although not necessarily in the same markets that were announced.
Update on Triple H's Upcoming DVD
WWE will release a new Triple H biography on Tuesday, September 24th.
Promising to delve into The Game’s entire career with an in-depth documentary, the new feature is coming on both DVD and Blu-ray formats. We can now exclusively reveal the official synopsis for the set and first details of what to expect.
Triple H continues to build upon his enduring legacy. From 13-time World Champion to COO, Triple H has played multiple roles spanning decades. Packed with over 3 hours of documentary footage, all-new interviews and matches, this compilation profiles Triple H’s entire career as well as his current executive role with the WWE.
Although the synopsis mentions 3 hours of documentary material, our information tells us that the main feature will in fact have an approximate 2 hour runtime. Therefore the extra hour referred to above may well be Blu-ray exclusive content.
Expect to see around 7 hours of footage in total contained on the DVD version, 5 hours of which will be devoted to extra matches and special features.
The release has not yet been given an official name, but you’ll be able to pre-order the new Triple H DVD or Blu-ray on major retail sites in the coming weeks.
June 2, 2013
Kurt Angle 2nd Inductee into the TNA Hall of Fame
Dixie Carter announced that Kurt Angle will be the second inductee to enter the TNA Hall of Fame at Bound for Glory 2013. Angle joins Sting, who was inducted last year. TNA Bound for Glory 2013 will take place Sunday, October 20, 2013 from the Viejas Arena in San Diego, California.
June 1, 2013
Randy Orton Comments on New WWE Talents
Randy Orton was interviewed by IGN.com to promote the new 12 Rounds 2: Reloaded film. When the subject of new talents making their way to the main roster came up, Orton commented, "Well, I'm used to calling him 'Husky,' but Bray's vignettes are awesome. And the other two guys down there in FCW, who are part of his team, are talented. That little group there looks great. I have no idea what we're in for but those vignettes have everyone's heads turning backstage. And wrestling is in Bray's blood. He's the son of Mike Rotunda - I.R.S. But Curtis Axel is third generation too. And so I think there's been a lot of pressure on Joe [Hennig] just being the son of 'Mr. Perfect' Curt Hennig. I mean, how can there not be a lot of pressure? No disrespect to my father, but Mr. Perfect was around a little more and maybe had more of a following. So people might be more aware of who his father was and because of that I think he has a lot more to live up to. And that whole 'Michael McGillicutty' thing? That was just career suicide. But he made it through that. And I think anyone who can make it through having a name like 'McGillicutty' for however many years he had it is a survivor. The fact that he made it through shows you that the kid's got some staying power. And now with Paul Heyman in his back pocket? golden. Give him a couple weeks, a couple months, and he'll make a big impact."
Creative Changes on the Way at WWE
WWE is looking for a Lead Writer for Raw and SmackDown, an On-Air Promotions Producer, Vice President, WWE Kids Entertainment, Coordinating Producer, Creative Writing and Vice President, Development. You can see the listings here.
May 31, 2013
May 30, 2013
WWE Lawsuit Updates
Some updates on different WWE legal lawsuits that are currently ongoing.
James Papa vs. WWE, etc.: The lawsuit over Papa's WCW theme songs being used by WWE and credit and royalties for them being erroneously credited instead to WWE's James Johnston will remain in Texas despite WWE attempting to have it removed to Connecticut where they are headquartered. Johnston and Michael "Hayes" Seitz were dismissed as defendants as the court ruled they had a lack of personal jurisdiction over them, leaving WWE and their music publishing company, Stephanie Music as Defendants. A claim of infringement was also dismissed as the court ruled that WWE did not knowingly infringe on Papas' copyrights. Papas still has the right to attempt to recover damages in the suit. Court documents indicate Papas will file an updated lawsuit with the court in an attempt to get some of his claims reinstated. If Papas does not enter an updated claim, WWE has until 6/28 to answer the remaining lawsuit claims.
Andrew Green vs. Paul "Big Show" White, WWE, etc. - Since the lawsuit from the former WWE Digital Producer against the company and Big Show was moved to federal court, a Judge has been assigned to the case. WWE has until 6/17 to officially respond to the lawsuit. Green is alleging that WWE put him into a dangerous situation with Big Show by demanding he film an interview backstage where Show lost his temper and forced Green to film it over again. Green alleges he had to quit because he was too scared to continue working for the company and that he was not paid for his own involvement in the video that aired on WWE.com.
Brian Jack vs. Steve Keirn, WWE, etc. After filing a new lawsuit in Florida against WWE, FCW head Steve Keirn and others alleging that he was injured in a faulty ring at WWE developmental in Tampa, there has been absolutely no movement. The lawsuit was filed but there's no record of anyone ever actually being served, so the case hasn't moved forward in any regard.
WWE vs. John & Jane Does in New Jersey: After seizing bootlegged materials over Wrestlemania weekend, there has been no real movement in the WWE lawsuit against those who had materials taken from them. One person who had material taken from them noted that WWE has been working with defendants towards finalizing a settlement, as opposed to dragging it out in court, although obviously that will be dependent on the individuals. No one appeared at an April hearing attempting to have their materials returned.
Landmark Technologies vs. WWE: A lawsuit was filed several weeks ago by a company named Landmark Technology, LLC against WWE, alleging that programming used by WWE on their online store was infringing on Landmark's patented software. WWE has not yet responded to the lawsuit and may not have even been served yet. The suit is filed in Texas.
WWE vs. Solar Entertainment Corp: There's been no major movement in the lawsuit against Solar, who were WWE's international TV partner in The Philippines. In the original suit, WWE claimed they were owed $981,707.84 for non-payment for TV programming and PPV events, plus interest and penalties Solar agreed they would pay contractually if they made said payments to WWE late.
source: pwinsider.com
Stephanie McMahon Announces a Tournament for the 1st NXT Women's Championship
At NXT Wrestling, Stephanie McMahon announced a tournament will begin next week to crown the first ever NXT Women's Champion.
Rumor Mill - Another Triple H Developmental Change
WWE officials are now interested in recruiting more international talents. This is another Triple H change.
Officials have had discussions about whether or not it would be in WWE’s best interest to try and reach a developmental deal with an overseas wrestling promotion or if it would be better to just scout some of the bigger companies in Japan and Mexico.
source: dailywrestlingnews.com
May 29, 2013
New Details Behind WWE Network Programming Revealed
WWE's Chief Financial Officer George Barrios took part in a presentation at the Citi Global Consumer Conference in New York City today and he took questions regarding the long awaited WWE Network.
"The program grid for the network will center around our monthly Pay-Per-View [Mike: the current plan is for all PPVs except Wrestlemania to migrate to the Network], so those will become the culminating events of storylines and so on. We are also going to create retrospective content from our library. So that's not just running library footage. That's creating kind of compelling stories around past areas of WWE. So for example one of the series that we've created is called the Monday Night War, so it's takes a look back at both what's happened inside the ring and outside the ring when Vince McMahon and Ted Turner were battling in the late 90s, so that will be a 15 episode series thereabouts and it's tested really well. So that's an example of content of mining our library. What we are also going to do in the original content, I mean for example we announced a reality series with E! recently called Total Divas, it's a reality series anchored around our Diva superstars, so we know we can create reality series. I think you would see things like that on the network. So it will be a different flavor than RAW and Smackdown, which will be our anchored program and broadcast lively. The network will be for those hard core casual may be some less fans to get that little bit extra at a price front that we think is just a lot more interesting than that $45 or $55 monthly [PPV price], which we think is just tougher for big player to consume."
WWE CFO Talks How The Network Can Transform WWE, New Stars, Take Two, New 15-Part Series
WWE Chief Financial Officer George Barrios participated in the Citi Global Consumer Conference for investors earlier today in New York, NY. He took questions after his presentation, here are some highlights from the Q&A:
They recently stated that they hope to triple earnings by 2015. This is driven by three factors, which consume 80% of his time: the launch of the network, four key content agreements and monetizing their digital products.
The Network is "somewhat of a game changer" at a price point of $12.99 - $14.99 with 2 million subscribers. At 3-4 million, it will "completely transform the company."
Their two most profitable assets, RAW and SmackDown, have four agreements coming up: two in the U.S., one in the UK and one in India. They have delivered a lot of value to their partners in those markets and believe there is an opportunity there.
He said that their digital audience is engaged with them and they are finding ways to monetize that.
They will be vocal about achievements, and will announce new deals, renewals and partnerships. Under 18 months, they will be under new content agreements for RAW and SmackDown.
As for the Network, he said it's up to them announcing carriage agreements. They have been working with carriers for the last 12-18 months and are making progress on tough discussions with them. They are also looking at potential launches internationally. The numbers mentioned earlier (2 million subscribers) are based on a fully distributed system in the U.S.
Update on Financial Status of Shane McMahon's Company - YOU On Demand
Growing Stock Report expands its NASDAQ Decliners Weekly Watch List adding YOU On Demand Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:YOD):
YOU On Demand Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:YOD) a company that through its subsidiaries, provides integrated value-added service solution and platform for the delivery of pay-per-view, video on demand, and enhanced premium content for cable providers in the People's Republic of China closed down in its previous session (-11.53%) on 439,323 shares traded. YOU On Demand Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:YOD) is currently down (-69.38%) from its recent 52-week high which has prompted Growing Stock Report to add the stock to their NASDAQ Decliners Watch List.
WWE and Warner Bros. Head to Bedrock
Warner Bros. and WWE Studios (NYSE:WWE) today announced they are once again teaming up; this time to co-produce a Flintstones animated movie to be released in early 2015.
Fred, Barney and the whole Bedrock gang join up with Vince McMagma (Vince McMahon), and WWE Superstars and Divas including John Cenastone (John Cena®) and CM Punkrock (CM Punk®) as part of the very first WWE main event.
“WWE is family-friendly entertainment, so partnering with Warner Bros. on a Flintstones/WWE project was a natural extension of our Scooby Doo deal,” said Michael Luisi, President, WWE Studios. “This new, animated feature allows us to showcase our brand with young fans and loyal Flintstones enthusiasts alike.”
“Warner Bros. is thrilled to continue our partnership with WWE Studios as we begin production of the latest Flintstones animated feature,” said Jeff Brown. “Our recent production collaborations have proven successful and we have the utmost confidence that the latest tag team between the WWE Superstars and The Flintstones will deliver the same results.”
Warner Bros. Home Entertainment will handle worldwide distribution on Blu-ray, DVD, VOD and digital download. The film will be co-produced by Warner Bros. Animation and WWE Studios. WWE will utilize its extensive global reach through its television, digital media and print assets to market the release of the film.
May 28, 2013
Jim Ross Comments on The Wyatt Family & NXT
WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog. Check out some of the highlights below:
Bray Wyatt & Family: "The Bray Wyatt Family vignette was spot on and after seeing them perform as much as I have in NXT I can attest that they will, without question, contribute positively to WWE once they arrive on RAW and/or Smackdown. Wyatt has success and athleticism in his blood and has that rare, second gear that most big men do not possess. I can't stress how important that is. Luke Harper and Erick Rowan are big, rugged dudes who, at times, remind me of a young Mick Foley or Bruiser Brody inasmuch as they are 'brawlers' who move well for being such big men."
Former NXT Stars Stepping Up In WWE: "NXT is doing its work as many new faces from developmental are beginning to to occupy key, roster spots on RAW and Smackdown. Some incumbent talents on the main roster who are 'peculating' might want to glance over their shoulder. More, outstanding NXT prospects are pushing to be "next" on the call up list. Competition is on going and good for all. It will take time for all the 'new' to be facilitated which means that it will take patience of which many fans and some talents don't have in an abundance. I see much of 1013 being a 'transition year,' of sort, which means fresh, new, and exciting times on WWE TV programming."
You can read the full blog here.
Mick Foley Comments On Triple H & Curtis Axel, TNA, Nixed Dean Ambrose Feud, Ziggler's Future, More
WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley joined Busted Open with Dave Lagreca and Doug Mortman and discussed Curtis Axel, his Hall of Fame speech, Dolph Ziggler cashing in, his nixed angle with Dean Ambrose (which you can watch in the video above) and much more. You can hear Busted Open on Sirius 92, XM 208 and on the app on Sports Zone. Here are some highlights:
On if Triple H squashed Curti Axel's debut: "This is not a knock on Triple H, but Triple H talked about retiring me after I already came back three times. At that point it was a big deal in 2000 for Triple H to talk about retiring me. If Triple H has had his last match, which is a good possibility, then I see Paul Heyman bragging for the next three years that Curtis Axel retired Triple H. Which is much bigger than beating him and much more meaningful or whether or not he was slapped or made to look weak momentarily.
"For people who ask me if I think this guy has a chance. Not only is he talented and waited his turn and lived through the Michael McGillicutty indignity. I asked him about that and obviously he didn't want to say anything bad about the company, but he said ,'It hurt a little, it stung when you get your name and it's Michael McGillicutty. Short term you can say, 'well why didn't he beat Triple H?' But like I said, me being on the outside looking in, depending how this thing plays out, never underestimate the verbal skills of Paul Heyman or the skills of Michael McGillicutty. As a fan it has me hooked. Even if you're not saying Curtis Axel right now, I believe that Paul is the master. I call him the master gardener. He knows how much water and sunshine to give his project and then they have to grow on their own."
On his Hall of Fame speech: "I think they intentionally had a smaller class this year and the only guideline Vince McMahon gave us was to have fun and enjoy it. That was the only critique of me when I came back to the WWE because I had left with the words 'You'll never speak to me this way again.' Then I came back with the words 'can I come back now?' So I was a little tentative. Vince even said to me, 'Mick, you look like you're not enjoying yourself' and I wasn't.
"I did throw a minor little fit over the rumor that Donald Trump's speech was going to air and not mine on television. I specifically remembered that I had told Stephanie McMahon a week or two earlier. I said, 'Stephanie, the moment you guys mentioned my book on the air Countdown to Lockdown, I said at that moment I promised myself that if I was ever asked to be in the Hall of Fame that I would say yes unconditionally. I wouldn't ask to be on at a certain point, it would be unconditionally. Then all of a sudden I hear about Donald Trump and I'm placing conditions on it. I said that's not the way I feel. This is going to be a great night. I really apologized in front of the entire McMahon family. Because I did feel it wasn't my place to say that and most importantly, now I was lying to what I had said to Stephanie. This came from the heart. It was supposed to be unconditional. Now I'm actually thinking about going out there and throwing my ring in the audience. These were the thoughts going through my head. By the time I got to the Garden, I'm just going to enjoy this. I went out on stage and realized I would probably never have the opportunity to address 17,000 people in THAT arena. The most important one in the country to me. I consider it maybe the best highlight of my career because I was able to recognize it."
May 27, 2013
WWE.com Posts "Injury" Update on Triple H
WWE has published a storyline update to Triple H’s medical condition on their website. According to their report, Triple H will not be on tonight’s episode of RAW.
Dr. Chris Amann has advised the Cerebral Assassin that he should not be traveling under his current condition and that he should stay at home and continue to rest until he is medically cleared to wrestle, which should be sometime in the middle of this week.
Interview with Roman Reigns
One-half of the WWE Tag Team Champions Roman Reigns recently spoke to EdmontonJournal.com to promote this week's SmackDown tapings. Here are a few highlights:
Playing the role of a heel: "If people want to boo me, that's great. As long as they're making noise and they're into it … when I'm out there, I want people to show if they're mad, they're happy, just some kind of emotion. They paid money to come out and cut loose a little bit, so that's what I intend on doing. I come out and cut loose and I let it all hang out. If I can elicit some kind of a response, that makes me happy, I know that. It doesn't bother me at all to have people boo me."
Comparing his football days with The Shield: "I've always been a physical athlete, so getting in the ring and being, in a sense, in-character is not me. It's always been an extension of myself. Being a part of The Shield, it's right up my alley to be an enforcer, to be the muscle of the group, almost like the D-linemen. A lot of times, that's how it looks. I'm the D-lineman and (Shield members) Seth (Rollins) and Dean (Ambrose) are like linebackers running free. I can free them up to do whatever they want and back up anything they feel or say, so it's a good feeling to be a part of the team again. I often think of it as it's third-and-long and I'm turning the corner and I have a free shot at a quarterback. Any time I have that opportunity, I'm going to bring it."
Jim Ross comments on meeting with the NFLPA on behalf of WWE
"I flew to Washington , D.C. Tuesday evening and met with the NFLPA on Wednesday morning. It was a productive meeting as the NFLPA group is in contact with literally hundreds of high level athletes who become detached from the NFL and are looking for their next career opportunity. Obviously, not every former football player will fit into WWE Developmental but some will and those that do have a chance to use their God given athleticism and their extroverted personalities to fit into the system and hopefully become WWE stars some day... Time will tell how this potential arrangement works out for all involved but WWE will continue to look far and wide for potential WWE talents including other sports groups and organizations worldwide, the independent wrestling circuit, and beyond."
May 26, 2013
Paul Heyman on Why He Thinks Vince McMahon Keeps Him Around
In the latest issue of the WWE Magazine, Paul Heyman talked about why he believes Vince McMahon has kept him around despite their tumultuous relationship.
"I would suggest that Mr. McMahon is, at the core, a businessman, through and through," Heyman said. "And my assessment of his feelings toward me is simply this: That The Chairman holds me in less contempt than he does others who can't generate the kind of revenue that Paul Heyman can deliver."
Heyman was the manager in two of three WrestleMania 29 Main Events. Heyman said he never envisioned this occurring one year ago.
"If you had asked Mr. McMahon a year ago if Paul Heyman would be associated with WrestleMania 29, he wouldn't have said, 'I don't even want him watching WrestleMania. If he buys the pay-per-view, send him his money back and block his cable!' Heyman said. "Brock Lesnar was never supposed to come back. And no one wanted C.M. Punk from the moment he arrived here."
May 25, 2013
HBK Honored In Salt Lake City
May 24, 2013
