Serena Deeb is back with WWE as a Women's coach at the WWE Performance Center. Deeb, 31, had worked for WWE from 2009 through 2010. During that time, she was a member of The Straight Edge Society with CM Punk and Luke Gallows. She returned to the company last year in the Mae Young Classic where she defeated Vanessa Borne in the first round before losing to Piper Niven in the second. In an interview with WWE.com, she said that her goal it to be teaching her own class at the Performance Center. She also was asked about her goals specifically as a teacher as someone who's just starting out as a coach.
"To really step up into this leadership role, which is a new thing for me," Deeb said. "I'm just looking forward to the set of challenges and rewards that are coming with this responsibility and getting to improve myself personally and professionally. I'm focused on how I can be a better person and a better coach. [I want] to give my best self to them so I can be a reflection of them and receive their best selves back. I think it's so important for the individual, regardless of the role you're in, to always be mindful of where you're at and always take your self-inventory so you can garner the best side of them as well."
February 8, 2018
Serena Deeb Reveals New WWE Role
WWE Earnings Call Highlights: Who Does Vince Credit For Signing Ronda?, How Long Is She Signed For?, WWE Network Updates, More
WWE Promotes George Barrios and Michelle Wilson to Co-President
WWE issued the following press release:
STAMFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– In recognition of their contributions to four years of record revenues and the successful transformation to a multiplatform business model, WWE Chairman & CEO Vince McMahon announced today that George Barrios and Michelle Wilson have been promoted to Co-Presidents and appointed to WWE’s Board of Directors. Barrios and Wilson will continue to report directly to McMahon.
“The successful transformation of our business model has put us in a position to capitalize on all that the changing global media landscape has to offer,” said WWE Chairman & CEO, Vince McMahon. “I am confident that our executive management team, led by Michelle and George, will achieve continued success across key strategic initiatives and ensure our long-term growth.”
February 7, 2018
Vince McMahon Steps Aside And Puts Triple H In Charge Of 'WWE 205 Live'
John Cena Writing a Series of Children's Books
WWE Superstar and 16-time World Champion John Cena is reportedly writing a series of children's books, according to Mashable.com.
The first book from Cena is going to be called Elbow Grease, which is about a family of talking monster trucks. Cena gave the following statement about the book:
“With Elbow Grease and the books to follow, I want to offer kids a fun and engaging way to learn about the power of ambition, dedication, and heart.
“These concepts have been transformative in my life, from my childhood up to now, and it’s so important to me to pass the positivity on and help our youngest generation see that right mindset is key to achievement."
February 4, 2018
Corey Graves Says Triple H Tipped Him Off That Graves' Wrestling Career Was Over
Corey Graves revealed that Triple H tipped him off that Graves would not be cleared to wrestle again, before the officially scheduled meeting where WWE management would tell him the news.
Graves, who retired from in-ring action in 2014 due to concussions and then made a successful transition to commentary for WWE, discussed the circumstances surrounding the end of his wrestling career during an appearance on a recent episode of E&C's Podcast of Awesomeness with Edge and Christian.
"Hunter, to his credit—at the time I hated him for it—a few days earlier kind of gave me a head up in the nicest way he possibly could. I got the initial heartbreak out of the way that day," Graves recalled.
The official meeting happened prior to an NXT taping at Full Sail University, at which Graves was told WWE doctors would not clear him to return to the ring after multiple concussions, he quickly shifted gears determined to find a new role with the company, saying:
"I imagine it must be what people feel like at any job that they put their time into and have a happiness in their life. Even being hurt and banged up and frustrated in NXT … I was still getting paid by WWE to wrestle. It was literally a dream job. So to have that dashed in such a quick period of time, it was hard to deal with but I also looked at it as, I've got a family to take care of. I'm still here. I don't think they're mad at me, I didn't do anything wrong, I didn't screw up. This is a really unfortunate thing. I just started doing anything and everything I could. ... The Monday following, I started working with the guys on production and learning how to play music at live events. I started paying my dues all over again from the ground up. Before the shows, I was running the cables under the ring for the speakers at the NXT live events. ... It was desperation, it was fear but at least if I'm doing nothing but production here [at NXT], I'm still with WWE."
Graves then found his niche on commentary and now finds himself commentating both Raw and Smackdown every week -- the only WWE broadcaster currently pulling that double duty.
January 29, 2018
Ronda Rousey arrives in WWE, crashes Royal Rumble 2018 following first Women’s Royal Rumble Match
Everyone knew the first-ever Women’s Royal Rumble Match would make history. Few knew it would involve iconic mixed martial artist Ronda Rousey.
The former UFC Women's Bantamweight Champion made her presence felt immediately following the 30-woman over-the-top-rope melee, walking to the ring to confront Women’s Royal Rumble Match winner Asuka, SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte and Raw Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss.
Rousey, who was wearing the jacket of her close friend and namesake, the late WWE Hall of Famer "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, did not say anything at first, but pointed directly to the WrestleMania sign hanging in the rafters. When she offered a handshake to Asuka, her hand was slapped away. A few words were exchanged before Rousey pointed to the sign once more. She then waved goodbye to the three Superstars in the ring.
Outside, Rousey shared a handshake with Raw Commissioner Stephanie McMahon and then exited.
According to a story published by ESPN.com following Rousey's appearance, the former MMA star has reportedly come to terms with WWE to be a full-time Superstar.
"This is my life now. First priority on my timeline for the next several years. This is not a smash-and-grab; this is not a publicity stunt," Rousey was quoted as saying. "When I first met with Triple H, I told him, 'There are other things I can do with my time that'll make way more money, but I won't enjoy nearly as much.' "
January 25, 2018
Vince McMahon: XFL to return in 2020 without gimmicks
WWE founder and chairman Vince McMahon announced Thursday he is giving a professional football league another go.
It will be called the XFL, the same name of the league McMahon and NBC tried for one season in 2001, but it won't rely on flashy cheerleaders and antics as its predecessor did, he said.
McMahon said he is the sole funding source for the league, which is slated to begin in January 2020. Its first season will have eight teams around the country playing a 10-week schedule. The initial outlay of money is expected to be around $100 million, the same amount of WWE stock McMahon sold last month and funneled into Alpha Entertainment, the company he founded for the project.
"I wanted to do this since the day we stopped the other one," McMahon told ESPN in an exclusive interview. "A chance to do it with no partners, strictly funded by me, which would allow me to look in the mirror and say, 'You were the one who screwed this up,' or 'You made this thing a success.'"
One mark of the new league, McMahon said, will be faster games. The ideal running time, he said, would be two hours.
As for the timing of the announcement, two years before the league's debut, many might point to McMahon's relationship with President Donald Trump, who this fall criticized the NFL for allowing its players to kneel and sit during the national anthem. McMahon said players in his league will not be given the forum to take a personal stance while on the playing field. McMahon's wife, Linda, heads the Small Business Administration in Trump's Cabinet.
January 24, 2018
Stephanie McMahon Doing Ringside Commentary for Women's Royal Rumble Match
Stephanie McMahon posted the following on twitter :
Announcing the first-ever women's #RoyalRumble match was one of my all-time favorite moments in WWE... And now I'm proud to share that I'll be joining the Announce team for this historic match this Sunday! #RumbleForAll #RoyalRumble
January 23, 2018
Enzo Amore Issues Statement On Rape Allegations Through Attorney
Enzo Amore took to Twitter this evening and issued a statement from his lawyers in response to the rape allegations from Philomena Sheahan, who has accused Enzo of raping her in October 2017. The accusations have led to WWE firing Enzo and an investigation by the Phoenix Police, which has been open since October of last year.
Sheahan went public with TMZ earlier today with details on the alleged incident. You can find that story and video at this link.
Below is the statement from Enzo's lawyer, Timothy J. Eckstein of Osborn Maledon in Phoenix:
STATEMENT FROM COUNSEL FOR ERIC ARNDT
Over the last two days, Philomena Sheahan has made multiple public accusations against Eric Arndt (also known as Enzo Amore with the WWE), including allegations of sexual misconduct concerning an October 2017 incident in Phoenix. Mr. Arndt fully and unequivocally denies those accusations. He is cooperating with the authorities in this matter and looks forward to having it resolved in a timely manner. Neither Mr. Arndt nor his counsel will be making any further public comments on this matter.
WWE Releases Enzo Amore
From WWE.COM:
Enzo Amore released
WWE has come to terms on the release of Eric Arndt (Enzo Amore).
The release comes after Enzo was accused of rape earlier this week. WWE suspended him on Monday, noting that they have zero tolerance for matters involving sexual harassment or sexual assault. Things must have changed between that announcement and today as he has been released.
January 22, 2018
Enzo Amore Suspended By WWE After Recent Sexual Assault Allegations
Pro Wrestling Sheet is reporting WWE has suspended Enzo Amore amidst new allegations that he allegedly raped a woman last October.
According to Twitter user @missgucciwitch, Enzo (Eric Arndt) raped her in a Phoenix area hotel room last October, posting the following text and screenshots:
The original question TOOPOOR asked me was if I would suck Enzo’s dick. I said possibly but if I wasn’t down she said we could all just hang out. Then they got me way fucked up & they left knowing what was about to happen. When Enzo the WWE guy stared coming on to me I was passed out on the couch. I said “I want to get to know you first before doing anything.” He replied, “Bitch I have 1million followers on instagram…you should be begging for this dick.” & then he restrained me & it happened. I never would be this dramatic about something like this but I want you all to know that I would’ve left if I could. I was in psychosis- I had no idea what was going on. I remember bits &pieces & I have constant flashbacks..My mental issues have been the worst ever & i suffer from major PTSD from it.
According to the report, a Phoenix Police Department representative confirmed a report was filed, and the incident remains under investigation, but police are waiting on lab results.
Pro Wrestling Sheet noted one source claimed the incident allegedly took place on October 19th, which would seem to line up with the date included in the accuser’s screenshots. Enzo’s Instagram posts also confirmed he was in the area, attending a Red Hot Chili Peppers concert at the Talking Stick Arena in Phoenix.
When asked about the accusations, WWE also issued the following statement to Wrestlezone:
“WWE has zero tolerance for matters involving sexual harassment or sexual assault. Until this matter is resolved, Eric Arndt (aka Enzo Amore) has been suspended.
January 21, 2018
WWE Issues Brief Statement On Hulk Hogan Possibly Returning
WWE has issued a statement to The Associated Press in regards to Hulk Hogan possibly returning to the company.
Hogan has been speaking with many press publications ahead of Monday's 25th anniversary of Raw in which he has been asked if he will be returning to the company for the big celebrations. Hogan has expressed to many media outlets that he would like to return, possibly for "one more match" but WWE appears committed to their decision in not having Hogan return to the company right now:
"At this time, WWE remains committed to its decision," WWE said in the statement.
WWE fired Hogan in 2015 following racial comments that came to light in which he used the 'n-word' and said: "I guess we're all a little racist."
Roman Reigns Issues Statement About Recent Allegations Involving Steroid Ring
In an update on the story involving Roman Reigns being named as part of a steroid distribution scandal, the current WWE Intercontinental Champion issued the following statement to PWInsider.com:
“I have never heard of Richard Rodriguez or Wellness Fitness Nutrition. I learned from the mistake I made nearly two years ago and paid the penalty for it. Since then, I’ve passed 11 tests as part of WWE’s independent drug testing program.”
Alberto El Patron Says He's Apologized to Triple H And Blames Paige For His Rants
Alberto Del Rio was recently interviewed by Medio Tiempo. He spoke about how he's said sorry to Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, and WWE.
His past rants ripping Triple H on social media:
"As you know, I am a man who knows when he was wrong. In fact I was in contact with them. Like WWE, when they admitted their mistake the first time I left, I also admit my mistake.
"I personally apologized to Triple H for the issues we had when I was in a bad relationship with my ex-partner. She and her entire family made me believe that they affected our relationship. She made me believe that the videos [Paige and Maddox] and all that was happening outside to her was perpetrated by Triple H and the company. At the time I believed her, because she was my partner. I defended her by heart and sword, then things were different. Later I realized how wrong I was to place my trust in that person. I deeply regret my words and apologized to Triple H, his wife and WWE. They understood me."
Triple H Talks to Rolling Stone About Upcoming "Raw 25"
For whatever reason, 25 years on the air of episodic television, storylines, characters, ebbs and flows but yet staying in that number-one [slot] on cable television… it's hard not to look at that and go, "Really?" I think that's what the palpable energy is for everyone here, whether that be in the office or for the talent. Some of our talent weren't even old enough to be watching when Raw started on the air.
When you take 25 years of memorable moments and characters, trying to boil that down to a three-hour Raw episode being simulcast and in two places, how do you whittle that down to certain people and times and events? I was doing an interview the other day, and they put out a list so I could refresh my memory, and it was pages and pages of these moments. As I'm going through them, "Oh my god, that was the coolest thing ever. That was the coolest thing ever. That was even cooler." And then there are the ones that involve me. But there are so many others, and that's been the hardest thing – not forgetting stuff. You can't get everybody, and you're going to get a lot of people who go, "I can't believe they didn't do this and talk about that." It's 25 years. You just can't do it all. I can tell you what it will be: It will be one hell of a celebration.
Talent have certain expectations of things, and then there' what the WWE universe is looking for and wants, and that's who we're creating this show for. It's their show. That's been the secret sauce for 25 years – our fanbase and the show that encourages them to be a part of it. It all started with Raw and went from there, so this is for them. This is in celebration of them. If you said, "What's the hardest thing in this?" it would be getting anything done, because it's going to be like old home day for all these talent who haven't seen each other. And once you get wrestlers telling stories its over. We'll all be telling stories all day long and putting ourselves over. At some point, I gotta remember, "I've got a show to make here."
Yeah, and I also think it's that wink and nod to yourself of things that we did and being able to talk about them now and live in that moment, and you're seeing a different side of a lot of people.
Boy, if you're gonna make a list of the people who aren't here who can't be a part of this, it's a fairly long list. I wish they were, but it's been 25 years, so people who had a big contribution unfortunately are no longer here. But no different than anything else in life, the celebration is for living and now. It's the excitement for what the people who are here now have accomplished. It doesn't mean that the other people didn't contribute in dramatic ways. Again, 25 years, we're gonna miss stuff, and I wish everybody could participate in it and celebrate with us, but it just can't be.
Absolutely. Shawn Michaels was in the first one! We were on a panel, and Miz was talking about how Shawn was one of his heroes and now he gets to work with him now and then and make movies with him and do stuff in the ring with him. That's incredible. Name characters in anything that have that kind of longevity.
We have to. Everybody else doesn't make the noise for us in some ways. I think WWE gets lumped into, "We're not fish, we're not fowl." So is it a sport? Is it theater? Is it a television show? You get in this weird mix, and they don't know where to place it, so it gets overlooked. But I don't care how you break it down. Twenty-five years on weekly television, most of which [has been] live. It's an unbelievable amount of television and content and characters that have in some instances shaped peoples lives. I can't tell you – it's the biggest honor of what you do – how many people come up to you on a daily basis from our generation and go, "Hey man, thank you for making my childhood so cool" or something like that. I look back on my childhood and [Ric] Flair and Dusty [Rhodes] and those guys and feel the same way, so I understand what they're saying. And to do that with that level of longevity and not go off the air while everybody else was like, "Yeah, it's just Raw." And we just kept doing it. It's hard to not say it's an incredible accomplishment, whether we have to toot our own horn for it or not.
Dude, that's every week. A year ago, Vince [McMahon] was at WrestleMania, and WrestleMania got done, and he took his headset off, took a deep breath and was like, "Man, that was good." And one of our writers walked over to him and handed him the script for Monday Night Raw. He goes, "That's it? That's my offseason? Here we go." And that is what we do. Tuesday morning when we wake up, that will be the start of the next 25 years.
UFC President Dana White Says CM Punk Will Fight in UFC Again
Ultimate Fighting Championship President Dana White recently spoke to The New York Post about a variety of subjects related to UFC. When asked about C.M. Punk possibly fighting in UFC again, White says that he plans on giving Punk another chance to redeem himself inside the UFC Octagon:
“I like that guy. He’s a good dude,” White said. “He wants one more. He wants to get another shot. I’m going to give it to him.”
White did say though that as of right now, he doesn't have any particular opponent or a date set in mind for Punk's next fight.
January 20, 2018
Jim Johnston On How Relationship With Vince McMahon Changed, Not Understanding His WWE Departure
On episode 31 of Prime Time with Sean Mooney, the former WWE play-by-play announcer caught up with longtime WWE composer Jim Johnston. Among many other things, Johnston talked about his relationship with WWE Chairman Vince McMahon and how it changed over his WWE tenure, how his WWE run came to a close, and what is next for the legendary entrance theme songwriter.
Johnston claimed that he worked very closely with McMahon early on, but Kevin Dunn became more involved over time.
"Well, early on, he and I spent a lot of time together," Johnston recalled, "I was out on the road and fortunately that stopped, so I could really just concentrate on being in the studio. It was actually necessary. It had to stop because of the demands and the need in the company for music was growing so rapidly that I was working seven days a week to keep up with stuff. But early on it was a very direct relationship where he would tell me about new stuff coming up that was needed and it was real simple. Slowly over time Kevin Dunn became a little bit of a go-between between us as well as having his own contributions. Often, he would have very, very good instincts about music."
Johnston indicated that his relationship with McMahon grew more distant as the company grew and their communication got very bad in the last few years.
"And then, as the company grew, sadly, that grew more and more distant because he got swept away into… well, we all got swept away because everything became more important. And then, towards the last years I was there, communication kind of fell apart. I think that's what really got us on a bad road."
According to Johnston, approximately 3 years ago WWE changed and things became more political. The scribe behind 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin's legendary theme should have taken 'The Rattlesnake''s advice: D.T.A.
"I guess three or so years ago, I'd say three to four years ago, a lot of politics got involved, personal stuff that I don't want to go into." Johnson explained, "but over the years I've had a failing in myself that I'll probably keep doing because I know in my heart that I don't think it's a failing, but it's not a good trait for business. I tend to get a bit Polly Annish to a point where I tend to trust people that unfortunately I've been shown that I shouldn't trust. There were people that really thought were friends that turned out not to be friends."
With respect to how his lengthy WWE career came to an end, Johnston said that he spoke with McMahon briefly. Johnston went on to suggest that the situation should have played out differently.
"I had a brief conversation with Vince and it was over," Johnston explained. "All I'll say is that I think there were a lot of ways to end it and the way that it ended was… I think there were better ways to end it where everyone could have walked away with a much better feeling. And after 32 years, it seems like a lost opportunity to me and I don't really understand it."
Johnston stated that he is starting from scratch in a way because WWE never rolls credits after its programs and he is not very well known in other circles.
"This is what I've been doing and it's a combination of not ever having a credit roll in WWE programming, so while fans have been incredibly kind know me well, they're not the people who are hiring to write music for TV shows and films and I'm sort of lesser known there. And while I have a nice resume, it's still something that I'm kind of starting a new business. People kind of know me once I educate them about who I am."
January 15, 2018
First 2018 WWE Hall Of Famer Confirmed
ESPN has confirmed that Bill Goldberg will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this year.
"At the end of the day, any business, any venture that you embark upon, you want some type of acknowledgement," Goldberg told ESPN. "You always try to make it to a top. There's no reason to do anything unless you want to be the best."
Goldberg will be the headliner for the 2018 Hall of Fame induction ceremony, which takes place on Friday, April 6th from the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, during WrestleMania 34 Weekend. Goldberg commented on the speech.
"It's hard to conceptualize what it's going to be like, just like it was hard to conceptualize what last year was going to be like after being away for 12 years," said Goldberg. "It's another opportunity for me to show how much I appreciate the support and the love I've gotten from the fans. At the end of the day, it's a validation that I've done something right."
The former WWE Universal Champion also kept the door open on another return to the ring for WWE.
"It's going to be tough, I can tell you that," said Goldberg. "It's kind of like bookmarking the end of your career, although it ain't the end of nothing for me. I'm always living and breathing and looking for my next venture -- and who's to say it couldn't happen there again?"
January 13, 2018
Rumor Mill - News On WWE Potentially Moving To FOX And Going Back To Two Hours
Paige Reportedly Done As An In-Ring WWE Performer
PWInsider.com has reportedly confirmed with multiple sources that following her recent injury at a WWE Live event Paige will not be cleared by WWE doctors to return to the company as an in-ring performer.
They are comparing the situation to Edge’s medical disqualification from the ring that led to his retirement.
Their full report can be found HERE, we have included some highlights below.
Paige was informed of the decision by WWE earlier this week.Paige appears to have received a “stinger” in her six-woman tag match on December 28th after being kicked from behind by Sasha BanksPaige immediately fell to the ground, was looked at by medical officials and the match was stoppedDue to the “stinger” Paige could not feel her extremetiesPaige will be replaced in the first-ever Women’s Royal Rumble Match
WWE has yet to confirm this report.
January 12, 2018
David Otunga Cleared In Domestic Violence Incident
January 10, 2018
Naomi On How She Developed Her 'Glow' Character
While Naomi has been on the main roster since January 2012, it wasn't until she embraced "The Glow" that she finally broke out in WWE. In an interview with TV Insider, Naomi talked about how the character came to be and more. Highlights from the interview are as follows:
Developing her character:
"I think that is why I struggled in the beginning, because I feel like I was put in storylines that weren't me.
"I did the heel stuff. When I first came to NXT, I was wearing the neon stuff. Then I got away from it and ended up being a Funkadactyl dancer, which was awesome. Then I ended up being with Tamina and Team B.A.D. Then I was with the Usos for a little while. I just felt like I needed an opportunity to be on my own. I knew that once I got that moment the 'Glow' was what I wanted to do. That's who I was. I really believe in the 'Glow' and live my life that way. It's about being positive inside and out, and being the best version of yourself possible. I really wanted to incorporate that into wrestling. That was my way of doing it."
Getting the character off the ground after Team B.A.D. split in May 2016:
"I went and had one of the many talks with Vince [McMahon]. I went to him with the idea and he was like, 'Well, we will give it a try.' It was an at a point where they weren't doing anything with me. Thanks to Vince and Triple H and Road Dogg, they really helped me get everything off the ground. It was rough trying to get the gear, trying to get the lighting. I just had to stay on them on that, because this is a machine. There is so much going on each day."
Getting the look right for television:
"We couldn't get it to translate right on TV. It looked cool. It glowed in person, but for some reason on TV, the glow in the dark fabric wouldn't translate on TV. I literally had to charge it backstage with the bright lights. Let it charge and go out. It was just too much. It wasn't going to work. Then we ended up doing the UV reactive stuff, which is where we are now. All of my gear has to be certain fabric that glows. Not all neon things glow. That was tricky, too.
"I would find all this stuff off of rave sites and trying everything. I would get to TV and the stuff wouldn't glow. I got it down now. I have a closet, a whole room of glow stuff that never made it on TV yet or didn't work. Money I've spent on all this stuff."
Gabe Sapolsky To Sign WWE Deal Soon, Backstage News On His Role, The WWN - WWE Relationship
WWN Live's Gabe Sapolsky will be signing a contract with WWE soon, according to PWInsider. The former ROH booker will be working for WWE as a consultant.
Sapolsky has been working for WWE on a handshake agreement for several months, specifically helping out backstage at WWE NXT TV tapings. Sapolsky will continue working with WWN and EVOLVE as this is a continuation of the working relationship between WWE and WWN.
Triple H spoke about Sapolsky during a NXT conference call back in the summer of 2017. He said:
"I like Gabe. I like what he does. I think he's a smart guy that helps to get talent going in their careers. ... It's an opportunity. ... When I have an opportunity for him to be around us and learn from us and I can bring him in and see how his mind works, it's good for everybody.
"I want to work with guys or groups or organizations who are in the business of cultivating talent and not just putting on shows and not just putting on an event, selling some tickets and moving on. ... People that are interested in cultivating talent and helping to push their careers along and to move them along."
Triple H On If WWE Will Make An Exception For Daniel Bryan's Ring Return
The Wrap asked Triple H if there's some sort of exception in WWE's strict policy that might allow SmackDown General Manager Daniel Bryan to return to the ring. Triple H said:
"There can be no exception medically," Triple H said. "If the belief is that he's not healthy enough and there's a risk [for him] to perform, then I don't know why you'd allow him to step into the ring unless it can be proven otherwise. There will be no exceptions. We have some of the best medical people in the world that work for us. Our wellness policy, our concussion programming, our protocols — I'll put them up there against any on the planet.
"That is a new science in a way, too. So we're gonna look at it from all aspects, but the medical experts will make the determination as to whether he can ever step into that ring or not. Look, personally for him, I know it would be something he would love to do, and part of me feels like I hope he has that opportunity. But at the same point in time, he's married and has a child. Certainly, [we put] the human being first."
Bryan has not wrestled since April of 2015. He announced his retirement in February of 2016, but has since said that he plans to wrestle again this year unless doctors advice him otherwise. His WWE contract expires in September.
January 1, 2018
Kevin Nash On What Vince McMahon Recently Told Him Regarding Current WWE Talent
During a recent episode of the The Ross Report, Jim Ross spoke highly of the potential XFL relaunch, stating that he believes that Vince and company have done significant research to make sure that they will not have another unsuccessful run. Ross also asked his guest, WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash, about his thoughts on the matter.
"Vince doesn't like to have a black mark anywhere on his dossier," said Nash. "At the beginning [of the XFL], the numbers were great, and it wasn't the right place at the right time."
Nash and Ross also discussed whether WWE will hurt from McMahon not completely focusing on the product, and both agreed that Triple H is next in line to steer the company creatively, and the WWE will be just fine with him at the helm. However, the landscape of WWE has changed regarding the grit of the talent.
"I remember one time I was talking to Vince – it wasn't the last WrestleMania, I think it was the one before – and I just asked him how things were," said Nash. "And he goes, 'The thing that's changed more than anything, [is] back when you broke in here in the fed, it was a shark tank. Like, everybody went after that top prize, and it was a battle. Now, [wrestlers] wait for him to come around with a sword and anoint them.' It's just not the same anymore."
December 21, 2017
Vince McMahon Files Five Trademarks For ‘XFL'
As we noted moments ago, Vince McMahon has sold 3.34 million shares of WWE stock with the primary reason being for funding his new Alpha Entertainment LLC.
ESPN’s Darren Rovell is reporting McMahon has also applied for five different trademarks for the term ‘XFL’ through his new Alpha Entertainment LLC. It was said that the filings just came into the trademark office, and it was filed on December 16th.
Talk about Vince McMahon’s revival of the XFL first surfaced after journalist Brad Shepard broke the news that McMahon was looking to bring back the league, and an announcement could come as soon as January.
Rovell noted previous XFL trademarks were abandoned over a period of time from 2002 to 2005.
Vince McMahon Sells 3.34 Million Shares Of WWE Stock To Fund His Alpha Entertainment LLC Company
According to a recent SEC filing, Vince McMahon has just sold 3.34 million shares of WWE stock (valued at about $105 million currently) to fund his new Alpha Entertainment LLC company.
The filing stated:
“On December 21, 2017, Vincent K. McMahon (“Mr. McMahon”), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (the “Company”), sold 3,340,000 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock in a block trade made in accordance with the provisions of Rule 144 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Mr. McMahon executed the sale primarily to fund a separate entity from the Company, Alpha Entertainment LLC, which Mr. McMahon established to explore investment opportunities across the sports and entertainment landscapes, including professional football. Mr. McMahon has informed the Company that he has no current plan to sell additional shares of the Company’s stock and that he intends to continue in his capacity as the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for the foreseeable future.
The shares sold by Mr. McMahon represent approximately 4.3% of the Company’s total outstanding shares of Class A and Class B common stock. After the sale, Mr. McMahon beneficially owns 32,193,375 shares of the Company’s Class B common stock, which represents approximately 82.8% of the Company’s total voting power and approximately 41.8% of the Company’s total outstanding shares of common stock.”
As noted in the report, McMahon is exploring options in the sports and entertainment worlds with the new LLC. It’s been speculated that McMahon was also looking to bring back the XFL, with wrestling journalist Brad Shepard reporting this is the case, and that an announcement could come as soon as January 25th, 2018.
December 19, 2017
WWE Announces First All-Female Royal Rumble
The historic first-ever Women's Royal Rumble Match announced for Jan. 28
History will be made at the 30th Anniversary of the Royal Rumble when the WWE Universe witnesses the first-ever Women's Royal Rumble Match.
Raw Commissioner Stephanie McMahon made the massive announcement on the Dec. 18 edition of Raw, declaring that female WWE Superstars will compete for a championship opportunity at WrestleMania 34.
The much-anticipated contest could not be coming at a more pivotal moment for the ground-breaking women of each brand. In addition to the elite competitors who continue to make the Women's Evolution the cutting-edge phenomenon that it is, the main roster has experienced an influx of talented new Superstars over the past several months, including Raw's undefeated Asuka, the returning Paige and her destructive Absolution cohorts, as well as SmackDown LIVE's Riott Squad. This surge of talent will undoubtedly help make the first-ever Women's Royal Rumble a can't-miss contest.
Who will seize the moment and book a ticket to WrestleMania 34 in New Orleans by winning the monumental bout? Find out when the women of Raw and SmackDown LIVE make history at the Royal Rumble, streaming live on WWE Network on Sunday, Jan. 28!
December 16, 2017
Rumor Mill - XFL Trademark Filed, WWE Responds On Whether It Will Be Returning
From the very beginning, the XFL was quite a bizarre concept. Intentionally trying to go against the grain of what NFL fans view American football to look like, Vince McMahon sought out to create a league that was extreme and over-the-top.
Here were some rules that the XFL enforced to distinguish them from the NFL:
- Instead of a coin toss, players were placed on the 50-yard line to recover the ball. Whoever recovers had the choice whether they wanted to kick or receive.
- The receiving team had to run kickoffs out of the endzone, unless the ball was kicked through the endzone.
- Defensive players can use bump-and-run tactics down the entire field.
- There was no kicker for the point after touchdown (PAT). It had to be either via pass or run.
- There was no fair catch rule.
While the initial hype of the XFL generated a strong audience, diehard fans of the NFL began to heavily criticize the league, and numbers started to reflect the dissatisfaction. As a result, the XFL lasted only one season, and never returned again. On the ESPN 30 for 30 "This Was the XFL" documentary, the conclusion saw Vince McMahon discuss the ups and downs of the league with former NBC Sports Chairman Dick Ebersol. Interestingly, during the discussion, the idea of revitalizing the company after a 15-year absence was suggested. In fact, the idea was not adamantly rejected by either party.
Based on new information, the XFL could be returning. On Wednesday, June 28, 2017, the XFL trademark was filed by WWE under the category of "Education and Entertainment Services." WWE has until 12/28 before the foreign filing deadline is expired.
Here is the description provided to the United States Patent and Trademark Office for the filing.
"Entertainment services, namely, an ongoing series featuring wrestling exhibitions and performances by professional wrestlers and entertainers provided through broadcast media, namely, television and radio, and via the Internet or online service; Entertainment services, namely, production of sports and sports related programs provided through broadcast media, namely, television and radio, cable, satellite and via the Internet or online service; Sports entertainment, namely, conducting of sports competitions; Providing information in the fields of sports and entertainment via an online community portal; Providing a website featuring information in the fields of sports and entertainment."
Deadspin reached out to WWE regarding the resurrection of XFL. Although the spokesperson did not confirm or deny, it was revealed that Vince McMahon has started Alpha Entertainment, which will personally be funded by him to "explore investment opportunities across the sports and entertainment landscapes, including football."
December 15, 2017
How Was WWE NXT On The USA Network Viewership?
The broadcast debut for WWE NXT on the USA Network drew 841,000 viewers. This was a special airing for WWE Week on USA. The show ranked #22 on the Cable Top 150.
To compare, this week's RAW drew 2.684 million viewers (down from last week's 2.813 million viewers), this week's SmackDown drew 2.481 million viewers (down from last week's 2.493 million viewers) and last week's Impact Wrestling drew 226,000 viewers (down from 255,000 viewers).
December 10, 2017
WWE Gives Statement On Rich Swann's Arrest
WWE issued the following statement on Rich Swann's arrest, earlier today.
"WWE has zero tolerance for matters involving domestic violence, and per our policy, Rich Swann has been indefinitely suspended following his arrest."
As noted, earlier this morning at 12:09am in Gainesville, Florida, 205 Live Star Rich Swann was arrested and charged with Kidnapping and False Imprisonment: Adult, a third-degree felony in Florida that is punishable with up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine, if convicted. Swann was also charged with Battery (touching or strike), a first degree misdemeanor that is punishable with up to one year in jail or 12 months probation and a $1,000 fine, if convicted.
The Gainesville Police tweeted out Swann's mugshot and the police report, due to the numerous national media requests. According to the report, the victim was pro wrestler, Su Yung (Vannarah Riggs). Swann was driving a car and apparently began critiquing Riggs' performance at a wrestling show, earlier in the night. Swann was said to get angry and Riggs "got scared that the argument was going to escalate" and eventually jumped out of the car. The report continues Swann stopped the car in traffic, yelled for her to return, ended up putting her in a headlock and dragged her back to the vehicle.
SEE ALSO
