The Wrestling Guru

Triple H and Myserio Lose Muslce mass

2017-05-09T07:24:00.000-07:00

Rey Mysterio and Triple H were victorious last night in their return matches at SummerSlam. Both men were out for months due to injuries and both returned with noticibly different physiques. Triple H's body had less muscle mass but was as lean and cut as it has been in years. The time off gave him the chance to focus on developing more of an athletic body type and he was not at all "bloated".

Although it was covered in silver paint for most of the match, it clear that Mysterio's body has also changed quite a bit since he was last on television. He now has much less muscle tone and appears to have gained approximately 10-15 pounds. The physique change could be a result of WWE's recent strictness of the Wellness policy, although Mysterio claimed in an interview last week to have never taken any steroids.

UFC 92 fighter payday and salary figures for "2008

2009-01-07T11:37:00.000-08:00

MMAmania.com (www.mmamania.com) has received fighter purses for UFC 92: “The Ultimate 2008,” which was held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, on December 27, from the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC).

Quinton “Rampage” Jackson was the big winner this New Year’s Eve weekend in more ways than one, scoring a devastating knockout of nemesis Wanderlei Silva and bringing home $325,000 in base pay for less than four minute worth of work.

Tack on an additional $60,000 for “Knockout of the Night” and I’d say he fared quite well financially.

Here is the complete list of UFC 92 payouts:

Rashad Evans — $130,000 ($65,000 to show, $65,000 to win)
Forrest Griffin — $100,000
Evans defeated Griffin via technical knockout (strikes) in round three

Frank Mir — $90,000 ($45,000 to show, $45,000 to win)
Antonio Rodrigo “Minotauro” Nogueira — $250,000
Mir defeated Nogueira via technical knockout (strikes) in round two

Quinton “Rampage” Jackson — $325,000 ($225,000 to show, $100,000 to win)
Wanderlei Silva — $200,000
Jackson defeated Silva via knockout in round one

Cheick Kongo — $90,000 ($45,000 to show, $45,000 to win)
Mustafa Al-Turk — $7,000
Kongo defeated Al-Turk via technical knockout (strikes) in round one

CB Dollaway — $20,000 ($10,000 to show, $10,000 to win)
Mike Massenzio — $5,000
Dollaway defeated Massenzio via technical knockout (strikes) in round one

Yushin Okami — $32,000 ($16,000 to show, $16,000 to win)
Dean Lister — $19,000
Okami defeated Lister via unanimous decision

Antoni Hardonk — $28,000 ($14,000 to show, $14,000 to win)
Mike Wessel — $4,000
Hardonk defeated Wessel via technical knockout (strikes) in round two

Matt Hamill — $20,000 ($10,000 to show, $10,000 to win)
Reese Andy — $15,000
Hamill defeated Andy via technical knockout (strikes) in round two

Brad Blackburn — $14,000 ($7,000 to show, $7,000 to win)
Ryo Chonan — $18,000
Blackburn defeated Chonan via unanimous decision

Pat Barry — $10,000 ($5,000 to show, $5,000 to win)
Dan Evensen — $4,000
Barry defeated Evensen via technical knockout (strikes) in round one

Keep in mind the salaries listed above do not include fight bonuses, sponsorships, percentages and other unofficial payments. It also does not include deductions for expenses such as insurance, taxes, etc.

For example, the UFC often hands out extra cash for “Fight of the Night,” “Knockout of the Night” and “Submission of the Night.” To check out these figures for UFC 92 go here.

The total base fighter payroll for the blockbuster pay-per-view (PPV) event, which attracted an unofficial near sellout crowd of 14,103 fans and a gaudy gate of $3.47 million, was a hefty $1,381,000.00. And $1,005,090 of that was all dished out to those who competed in the “big three” fights!

WWE RAW Results (1/5/2009)

2009-01-07T11:18:00.000-08:00

-Hosted by Michael Cole & Jerry "The King" Lawler

-Tonight's show opens with a recap of the Shawn Michaels-JBL angle starting with Armageddon and leading up to last weeks fatal four way which saw Shawn take a dive for JBL sending him to the Royal Rumble to face John Cena for the World Heavyweight Championship.

-Randy Orton and Chris Jericho are in the ring for a joint promo. Jericho states they are here to address the atrocity of last week. Jericho states that the rules clearly state that the rules are every man for himself, but it is clear that JBL and Michaels were working together. As a result they are filing a formal protest. Orton states they feel that JBL should be removed from the title match at the Royal Rumble and Shawn Michaels should not be allowed to compete. Orton states that he and Jericho have agreed to a match tonight with the winner going on to face Cena. Jericho says the fans don't have to like it, but at least they fought an honest match. That brings out JBL and Shawn Michaels together in JBL's limo. JBL says they can protest all they want, but the facts are that he won the match and he will be facing Cena at the Rumble. JBL asks them to lose with a little dignity. He says they have the audacity to cast aspersions at him considering their track records. JBL claims they would have done the same given their track records if they had the resources. Jericho says he always does things on the up and up, and then moves on to Michaels. He says everything he said over the summer has been proven to be true. Shawn retorts that the one thing that keeps him from being completely sickened with himself is knowing he personally cost both of them from fighting for the title. Orton goes for the heart saying that saying that Shawn has taken a turn for the worse. He says not only is he hurting himself, but now Ric Flair's career has been ended by a weak pathetic sellout. Orton states the real shame is that once the protest is heard and the result is overturned it will all be for nothing. That brings out Stephanie McMahon. Stephanie says since Shawn didn't lie down the referees decision stands and the protest is denied. She officially places both Orton and Jericho in the Royal Rumble. Jericho says thats not supposed to be a reward because they should be in anyway. Jericho says that Shawn Michaels should not be in the Royal Rumble based on his actions. JBL says he'll yield to that demand because Shawn's sole function will be to be serve as his cornerman. Stephanie says the easy thing to do now would be to make a tag match between these four, but thats no fun so she instead decides to test Shawn's integrity by making tonights main event Orton and Jericho against Shawn and John Cena. Fantastic opening segment.

Goldust & Melina vs. Santino Marella & Beth Phoenix
Rosa Mendez again gets a front row seat. I guess jumping the rail doesn't even get you a week off. I'll have to remember that the next time I'm at a show. Beth starts with Melina. Beth sends Melina down with a headbutt. After an exchange of firsts Beth again takes Melina down with an elbow. Santino tags in and tries to grab Melina, but a slap allows her to tag Goldust. Goldust hits an armdrag. Santino fights back and gains control after a wristlock. Cover by Santino gets a two count and then he hits a headlock. Goldust fights out of that and hits an inverted atomic drop and follows up with a clothesline. Attempted kiss to Beth is rebuffed. Butt-butt by Goldust gets two as he sends Santino to the floor. Goldust tags in Melina which lets the women go at it again. Beth drives Melina into the corner, but a charge attempt meets Melina's boot. Melina goes to the top rope and hits a face buster. Jacknife rollup finishes abruptly for Melina giving her and Goldust the victory. Rosa Mendez jumps the rail again and security grabs her and takes her through the crowd. Melina goes out through the crowd after her but security keeps them apart. Harmless comedy match mainly to set up the Mendez angle and make Melina seem like a threat heading into the Rumble match.
Winners: Goldust & Melina (Melina pins Phoenix-Rollup *1/4)

-Todd Grisham is with CM Punk. Punk talks about being stoked for a shot at the IC title. Punk brings up the legacy of the Intercontinental Title and adding himself to that elite list. He brings up Regal defeating him in the King of the Ring finals last Spring and also Regal's cheap shot last week. Punk says tonight he's gonna start the new year off with a bang by becoming the new IC Champ.

WWE Intercontinental Championship: CM Punk vs. William Regal (c) (w. Layla)
Punk opens up with a barrage of kicks getting a one count. Snap suplex gets a two count for Punk. Punk hits with a few knees before sending Regal to the floor. Punk goes for a suicide dive, but Regal uses Layla as a shield. Punk tries to go out after Regal, but gets pulled to the floor allowing Regal to slide inside and take control. Regal pounds Punk down with several forearms and a cover gets a one count. Irish whip into the corner by Regal is followed with a big punch for two. Regal locks in a full nelson, but Punk fights out of that. Regal takes a spin kick to the head which gets two for Punk. Into the corner Punk hits a high knee. A bulldog attempt is blocked, but Regal sets up for the GTS. Regal grabs a hold of referee Mike Chioda to block the move which draws the ultra lame DQ. So that entire tournament was for that? Crowd shits all over it. Regal is leaving, but Stephanie shows up on the Titantron to inform Regal that he will give Punk a rematch and if Regal is disqualified he loses the title. Well that somewhat redeems it, but this still sucked given the buildup.
Winner: CM Punk (Disqualification-Regal Retains Championship *)

-JBL is talking to Shawn Michaels. He talks about how well this worked out for him. He tells Shawn all he needs to do is superkick Shawn and force Cena to have to forfeit the belt to him. Shawn stands up possibly to protest, but JBL informs him that this isn't about the Rumble. He was hired to get JBL to Wrestlemania 25 as the conquering hero returning to Texas. He tells Shawn that he'll never have to worry about a bill the rest of his life.

-Randy Orton is with Cody Rhodes and Sim Snuka. He tells them they both won last week and completed phase one. Orton tells them if they want to be apart of his group they have to win their match tonight. He says he wont accept failure. That brings in Manu who asks for another chance to prove himself. Manu informs Randy that no one is perfect and even Randy himself last week. Wrong thing to say pal. Orton states he won the main event of Wrestlemania, and Manu has done nothing. He says his father and him are nothing compared to Randy and his father. Orton says half of these people don't even know his name. He says Manu will never be apart of his group, and he never wants to see his face again.

-Dolph Ziggler introduces himself to Mickie James in the back as Kofi and Rey walk by.

The Miz & John Morrison vs. Kofi Kingston & Rey Mysterio
Miz and Morrison chastise the crowd for booing them. Morrison states that a city that just became the murder capital of the US shouldn't really be judging them. They apologize for being World Tag Team Champs, 2X Slammy Award Winners, Saving the environment one low flow toilet flush at a time, and being the best tag team of the 21st Century. Contrary to prior reports this match appears to be non-title. On screen graphic announces both Rey and Kofi are in the Royal Rumble. Miz starts with Kofi. Crossbody by Kofi is followed by an armdrag which causes Miz to bail to the floor. Kofi threatens a tope but stops himself on the ropes as we head to break. Back from commercial and Miz has Rey in an armbar. Rey fights out and sends Miz into the corner buckle with a hurracanrana. That allows Rey to make the tag to Kofi. Kofi is in with a chop and a dropkick. He slides to the floor to avoid a shot from Morrison and pulls Morrison down with him. Back inside he looks to go up to the top rope, but Morrison sends him crashing allowing Miz to regain control. After a few shots to the knee Miz tags in Morrison who goes to work on the knee some more. To the floor Morrison continues to work the knee driving it into the ring apron. Tag to Miz who continues with the stomps to the knee and wrenches away at it. Miz moves to a front facelock. Kofi tries to power into the corner to tag, but Miz lets go and sends Rey to the floor. He walks into a backdrop at Kofi which would allow Kofi to tag, but Rey is on the floor. Seconds before Rey can get to him Miz pulls him back to the center and tags in Morrison. Morrison continues the assault stomping away and hitting a knee to the face for two. Kofi hits a hurracanrana from his back and again tries to tag but Morrison is able to stop that and tag in Miz. Kofi is placed on the top rope, but is able to fight Miz off and hit a dropkick off the second rope. That finally allows the hot tag to Rey as Miz tags Morrison. Rey hits a hurracanrana and rolls through a sunset flip with a dropkick to the face getting two. Springboard dropkick is blocked by Morrison into a facebuster for two. That gets two. Rey is able to counter into an armdrag flipping of the top but Miz breaks up the count. Miz looks to powerbomb, but Rey falls the apron. Kofi connects with a crossbody sending both him and Morrison to the floor. Dropkick to Morrison sets up the 619 which connects. It should be noted that this was about the lamest 619 set up ever as Morrison literally had to crawl half way across the ring and set himself up on the second rope. Quick distraction from Miz allows Morrison time to spin kick Rey on the springboard attempt which picks up the victory. Afterward Knox attacks Mysterio again this time clotheslining him on the second rope. A big boot by Knox sends Rey crashing to the floor.
Winners: The Miz & John Morrison (Morrison pins Mysterio-Spin Kick **3/4)

-Cena approaches Shawn Michaels and asks him if he's fighting two guys or three guys tonight. Shawn says he's nobodies puppet. As for what to expect, he asks Cena what does history tell him to expect.

Kelly Kelly vs. Jillian Hall
Jillian greets us with a rousing rendition of "When the Saints Go Marching In." Isn't it time to end this wretched gimmick yet? Kelly takes down Jillian and hits a front face lock. Jillian powers out of that sitting Kelly on the apron. She attacks Kelly on the way back in to take control . Pair of snap mares sets up a kick for two. Kick to the back sets up a modified camel clutch, I guess. Jillian hits a biel with the hair and that gets a two count. Next up Jillian locks in a full nelson. Kelly hits what is called a "great counter" by Michael Cole but really just amounted to her standing up and sitting down while Jillian let go. Kelly hits a tilt-a-whirl hurracanrana and follows up with a crossbody off the top for two. Trio of clotheslines gets a one count for Kelly. Kelly tries a victory roll, but Jillian sort of blocks it and gets a two count. Jillian tries to flip into the corner but is met by Kelly's boot. That puts her down to her knees which allows Kelly to hit a legdrop to the back of the neck while standing on Jillian's back which gets the victory. Afterwards Jillian attacks Kelly, and that brings out Kane. Jillian bails which leaves Kelly alone with Kane. Kane calls her out for protecting Orton and asks her if it feels good getting rejected. He says next week he's gonna go back to doing what feels good to him and that's eviscerating people. Next week Kane will face Randy Orton, and tells her she's free to watch. As for that match it was absolutely wretched. Kelly is improving, but Jillian is hardly the woman to have her in the ring with at this point.
Winner: Kelly Kelly (Pinfall-Legdrop DUD)

Cody Rhodes & Sim Snuka vs. Cryme Tyme
So Cody and Sim have to win to be in Orton's group. JTG starts with Snuka. Snuka goes for a rollup which is blocked. Inside cradle attempt by Snuka gets a two count. JTG comes with a shoulder block getting a two count. Tag to Shad sets up another shoulderblock. Back elbow by Shad is followed by a tag to JTG. JTG is thrown into Snuka. Rhodes has seen enough and tries to break things up but gets a right hand for his trouble. The distraction allows Snuka to take control shortly but he again gets taken down with a dropkick. Live event calendar tells us WWE will be in Des Moines, IA on Sunday. Rumor is yours truly will be there. Cody gets the tag after Snuka hits a kick. Cody sends JT to the apron and with the refs back turned a Snuka cheapshot allow the heels to gain control. Bodyslam by Cody sets up a tag to Snuka who comes off the ropes with a fistdrop for two. Snuka hits a chinlock from there proving he is already learning well from his mentor Randy. JTG fights out of that and hits a headlock take down which takes both men out. Snuka tags in Cody, but JTG makes the hot tag to Shad. Huge backdrop from Shad is followed up by a shot for Sim sending him to the floor. Elbow drop to Cody sets up a cover that is broken up by Snuka. Shad tries a corner charge but posts himself. He is able to make the tag to JTG however who comes in with a sunset flip for two. Cody goes for the DDT after a counter sequence, but instead turns it into what appears to be a yet to be named new finisher, a and that picks up the victory and officially gives birth to the Legacy. Fun little match, which is a bit surprising given the players
Winners: Cody Rhodes & Sim Snuka (Cody pins JTG ***)

-JBL is leaving Stephanie McMahon's office with a smile on his face.

-Cody & Snuka meet up with Orton in the back. Orton informs Snuka he's out. Snuka doesn't understand because they won. Orton says he doesn't have time to argue, but tells him Cody won. It was a test to see who the weak link was. Orton asks Cody what he thinks and Cody says all he knows as that he won the match.

-Santino and Beth is in Stephanie's office. Santino asks why Rosa is "banded." Stephanie tells him that she is out of control. Beth thanks him, but Santino says its not her fault. No woman can resist him. Beth again thanks Steph and drags Santino out by his hair. That brings Jericho in. Jericho asks Stephanie if JBL was paying her off? Stephanie asks him if he really thinks she needs JBL's money? Jericho informs Steph that when he filed his protest he not only filed it with her, but he filed it with her father. She tells him her father is now out of the picture, but Jericho says he thought so too. But he got a call from Vince's office and in two weeks Vince McMahon will be back on Raw! Stephanie is stunned.

-CM Punk vs. William Regal for the Intercontinental Title is announced for next week

Randy Orton & Chris Jericho vs. Shawn Michaels & John Cena
Cena starts with Jericho. Jericho quickly takes control with a headlock takedown. Cena comes up out of that but is met with a shoulderblock. Leapfrog by Cena and then he takes Jericho down with a headlock takeover of his own. Michaels makes a blind tag as Cena puts Jericho up for the FU. Michaels comes in and looks to deliver Sweet Chin Music but both Jericho and Cena move. Tension mounts as we don't know who it was intended for. Jericho rolls to the floor as JBL comes out for a closer look. That sends us to commercial.

Back from commercial and HBK and Orton are wrestling in the ring. JBL has gone backstage during the break. HBK tags in Cena, who comes in and hits two shoulders on Orton and an atomic drop. Cena gets the crowd pumped and hits the Five Knuckle Shuffle on Orton. Orton scoops Orton for the FU but Jericho comes in. HBK comes in and clotheslines Jericho. Cena goes for the FU again on Orton but HBK argues with him after Cena had him. Orton decks Cena from the side and takes control. Jericho is tagged in now, using the ropes against Cena.

Jericho picks Cena to his feet and slaps him, taunting him. Jericho distracts the ref so Orton can get some cheap shots in on Cena. Jericho hits a baseball slide on Cena, sending him to the floor. Jericho comes to the floor and slams Cena's face into the announcers table. Back in the ring and Jericho gets a 2 count.

Jericho applies a headlock on Cena as HBK looks on. Cena lifts out of it and picks Jericho up for the FU but he counters and breaks Cena's hold. 2 count by Jericho. Orton is tagged back in for a little bit of double teaming. Orton begins stomping on Cena like he usually does. Big knee by Orton for a 2 count.

Orton backs Cena into the corner and puts the boot to his throat. Jericho is tagged back in now and Cena fights back with him. Jericho locks on a sleeper hold but Cena tries to fight out of it. Cena reaches for a tagand HBK reaches back out. Jericho pulls Cena back to the mat with the sleeper still locked. We see JBL watching on a monitor backstage. Cena finally gets to his feet and breaks the hold. Jericho takes him to the top for a superplex but Cena pushes him off. Cena with a big leg drop from the top.

Cena tries to tag but Orton gets tagged in first and comes in for a 2 count on Cena. Orton drops Cena with right hands. Cena blocks a dropkick by Orton but goes down himself. Cena leaps to tag in HBK. Michaels comes in but looks at Cena in the corner. Jericho comes from behind and HBK decks him. HBK hits his usual series of moves on Jericho. Jericho does the Lionsault but lands on HBK's knees. Scoop slam from HBK and he goes to the top rope. HBK goes for the elbow drop but Jericho puts his knees up and HBK hurts himself. Jericho locks the Walls of Jericho but HBK rolls him for a 2 count. Orton comes in but Cena tries to stop him. Back breaker by Orton on Cena. HBK hits the Sweet Chin Music on Orton, then Jericho. HBK covers Jericho for the pinfall and the win.

Winners: John Cena and Shawn Michaels

After the match, HBK looks confused. Cena nods at him in approval. HBK walks back and looks at Cena. Todd Grisham is backstage with JBL. JBL says he talked with Stephanie and on next week's RAW, HBK will face John Cena in singles action. JBL says he will be in HBK's corner. We cut back to the arena where HBK's music is still playing. Cena tries to get HBK pumped but it's not happening. RAW goes off the air.

Congress EXPOSES Steroid Use in Wrestling; Shocking Facts inside

2009-01-04T00:40:00.000-08:00

It seems as though a fire that appeared to die down for a bit is about to be rekindled in terms of the attention given to steroid use in professional wrestling.

U.S. Senator Henry Waxman submitted a report on the state of steroid use and abuse in wrestling to the Office of National Drug Control Policy's Director, John P. Walters. Along with the report, Waxman provided a letter he wrote, which details somewhat shocking, and most certainly embarrassing facts about steroid use in both WWE and TNA.

To read the complete letter, in pdf format, you can CLICK HERE

Some highlights (or lowlights?) in the letter, pointed out by Mike Johnson of pwinsider.com:

*Chris Benoit tested positive three times for steroids by World Wrestling Entertainment prior to his June 2006 murder/suicide of his family, but was never penalized by the promotion beyond "only a warning."

*40% of WWE talents tested positive for steroids and other drugs despite being aware they would be tested when the company instituted their "Wellness Policy."

*25% of TNA's talent roster tested positive for steroids during the promotion's first baseline test while 11 talents tested positives for other substances. Waxman went on to note that while the company has instituted a policy, there are "significant weaknesses" within the TNA program.

*Waxman was critical of WWE making changes to their Wellness Policy several months after instituting it to allow wrestlers to continue to perform (without pay) on TV and PPV events in order to maintain storyline consistency after they were nailed with suspensions. In an interview with Aegis Science's Dr. Black (who oversees the WWE Wellness program), Black noted that change was instituted, "because it was becoming difficult to deal with the talent who were being suspended". Black also noted he was "unaccustomed to programs that suspend and you're not suspended."

*WWE hired five of eight wrestlers who tested positive for steroids and other drugs during pre-hiring tests, despite their positives. It should be noted that according to material given to the Committee by WWE, those talents were only hired after later receiving negative tests at a later period.

*Waxman noted that WWE was allowing "therapeutic usage" of steroids from talents who were using a "testosterone replacement therapy" to combat issues brought on by previous steroid use in their past.

*Despite being a performer within his own company, Waxman noted WWE's Vince McMahon is not subject to the WWE's Wellness Policy testing procedures. Waxman noted McMahon would not comment on his own steroid use and claimed not to know of the damages brought on by long-term steroid use, claiming he was "not a doctor."

The letter includes transcripts of interviews with Vince and Linda McMahon, Stephanie McMahon-Levesque, Dixie Carter, as well as the doctors who created and oversee the WWE's Wellness Policy. I strongly suggest reading the letter, before everybody else (WWE, TNA, Media Journalists, etc) takes the facts out of context.

Nick Perkins' Personal Opinion

I have to admit, I haven't closely followed every news update about steroid use in wrestling. I guess I consider myself to be ever the optimist, but this letter has made me sick to my stomach. It's made me so sad, and maybe even a little embarrassed.

Wrestling has always been one of my best friends, and I mean that in the most literal way. There have been times when I've been sad, or angry, and I would turn on a wrestling show, and for two hours, I could escape reality. When even my closest friends couldn't make me laugh or smile, The Rock could with one of his multitude of comments about pie or strudel. Wrestling has been one of my favorite things for as long as I can remember.

Just like any relationship, I will immediately jump to the side of who or what I care about. I will defend professional wrestling against anybody. But honestly, it's hard to defend against facts. And the facts say that professional wrestling has, at the very least, been incredibly irresponsible with drug use, specifically steroid use, within it's companies. Lives have been lost because of steroid use, and regardless of whose fault it was, (the individuals, the companies, whatever)that is unacceptable. Plans have been put into effect to help make sure this doesn't happen again, but it still will. And that's a sad fact. I'm sure you, dear reader, will hear dozens upon dozens of opinions, facts, and opinions made out to be facts, but in the end, just know, that though our super heroes may seem invincible, they are not. Though our idols may seem like gods, they are not. They make mistakes. They make decisions that have negative consequences. They are human. Is it our place to judge them? Absolutely not. But we should be aware. And maybe, some day, this industry that you and I love so much can be something that we don't have to defend as strongly as we do now, and will have to do even more in the coming weeks, months, and years.

Jeff Hardy to lose WWE Championship?; Christain's Comeback

2009-01-04T00:38:00.000-08:00

The Wrestling Observer is reporting that the current WWE creative plan heading into Wrestlemania calls for Jeff Hardy to drop the title to Edge. In what most consider to be a lock at this point, former TNA Champion Christian is expected to debut with WWE in the near future to somehow screw Hardy out of the title. He will most likely be revealed as the mystery attacker that struck Jeff Hardy in his hotel room at the Survivor Series PPV, and this will be the catalyst for a grudge match between Hardy and Christian at Wrestlemania. The WWE title, meanwhile, will most likely be defended by Edge against Triple H in one of two Wrestlemania main events. Of course these plans can always change, but as of now this is the direction in which creative seems to be moving heading into the Royal Rumble PPV.

UFC in New York, Madison Square Garden; WWE Repercussions?

2009-01-04T00:31:00.000-08:00

It's being reported by The New York Post that government officials will be voting on a bill soon which will determine whether or not Mixed Martial Arts is legalized in the Empire State. If it's approved, the sport could potentially have a decent sized economic impact on WWE considering Madison Square Garden could become a key venue for companies like UFC. Below are excerpts from the New York Post, and you can read the entire article if you click here.

"Of the 44 states that have athletic commissions, 36 regulate MMA. The New York State Athletic Commission is one of the most thorough and meticulous commissions in the country. It would be just as diligent in regulating MMA, which chairman Melvina Lathan supports.

If the bill is approved and signed by Gov. Patterson, the UFC said it will hold an event at Madison Square Garden in late 2009.

"It's definitely inevitable and the sooner the better," Serra said. "I think they'll be selling out Madison Square Garden in record time. I think it's going to be insane. I know from just walking around Manhattan and Long Island and the e-mails I get, it will be such an historic event."

It's an event that's long overdue."

Joanie 'Chyna' Laurer Almost OD'ed

2008-12-29T03:09:00.000-08:00

The following press release was sent out earlier tonight:

PRESS RELEASE 12/28/2008

Re: CHYNA’s Hospital Visit!

As reported early Saturday morning Chyna was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Burbank, Ca.

Upon finishing the video shoot for Lovechild’s new single, Chyna and a couple of friends including myself, Jeff Bauer AD on the Lovechild shoot, had a few drinks to celebrate her birthday and the end of a great shoot.

Unfortunately, newly prescribed medication she is taking had a very adverse effect combined with the alcohol and Chyna blacked out and fell into her mirrored closet doors. She received minor cuts on her arms and legs.

She spent half the day Saturday at St. Joseph’s emergency and was released by the doctors without being admitted to the hospital.

Chyna is doing fine if not a little embarrassed about forgetting she was on this new medication. The family at Hybrid Culture Entertainment is with her.

Chyna is a delight on the set and we at Hybrid Culture welcome her anytime she is willing to be involved in one of our productions.

Jeff Bauer
Mad Dad Promotions
Assistant Director, Lovechild video shoot
818/536-9337

Laurer was taken to the hospital for a psych evaluation but her blood alcohol level was too high to test her.

In a follow up to an earlier report, it is believed that Joanie "Chyna" Laurer mixed a bottle of prescription pills and vodka together, which sent her to the hospital.

According to a source close to Laurer, she may have been trying to commit suicide. Laurer is still hospitalized, and is waiting on a mental evaluation.

Mike Esterman, Laurer's manager, has stated that once she is released from the hospital, Laurer will go into rehab.

WWE Confiscates Signs, Taking Away Your Freedom of Speech

2008-12-29T03:03:00.000-08:00

At Monday's Raw in Toronto, two anti-Cena signs were quite visible on camera when Cena himself got on the mic to introduce the returning Trish Stratus as his tag team partner for his match with Santino Marella and Beth Phoenix. The signs read "Cuck Fena" and "We've Cena 'Nuff!" - which was held up a few moments later. Both signs were held up by the same person, and quickly confiscated by security.

As recently as a few months ago - and definitely a few years ago when WWE marketed products featuring catchy slogans such as "Ruck Fules!", "Blow me ... Into the Stratusphere!", "APA - Always Pounding Ass", and "Wine me, Dine me, 619 me!" - both signs would have passed through, but that's not the case anymore due to the company's new-found kid-friendly directive, as well as WWE becoming more meticulous over what appears on-air.

As noted earlier, Jim Ross talked about the confiscated fan signs in his most recent blog and said those types of signs are not going to pass through in this day and age. Ross wrote: "As I have said many times, I am all for freedom of speech unless it crosses the line in the form of signs that essentially profanely scream, "please look at me." The "Cuck Fena" sign that was wisely confiscated in Toronto is a good example of crossing the line. It's akin to the "Tuck Fexas" shirt some here in Oklahoma wear. Bad taste...not cool. There was a time when that sort of material was actually encouraged and marketed in the WWE but that attitudinal ship has sailed."

Just to note, there is always a guy on a headset sitting by the announcers, and he is the person in charge of directing security to confiscate questionable fan signs, at least upon hearing from the people in the production truck. Sometimes he'll even get out of his chair and confiscate the questionable fan signs himself.

Maria Bites Back

2008-12-29T02:58:00.000-08:00

SmackDown Diva Maria posted a blog on the WWE Universe site responding to people criticizing her for not being a great wrestler. "I am not a person to respond to anger and cruelty but lately I have had such a hard time even getting on this site," Maria said addressing the criticism. "Mind you I do not claim to be the greatest wrestler or the quickest learner. I work hard, I get in the ring, (and) I try and still can't win. ... Wrestling is hard. I love it and that is what keeps me going. I love what I do." Maria added more on the negative comments. "If you want to be negative that is okay. I just can't read your comments cause negativity breeds negativity. I refuse to get down on myself. I could lose a million times and mess up a thousand things and as long as I love being out there I continue to march on."

Mick Foley Retuns to The Ring

2008-12-29T02:54:00.000-08:00

If you missed iMPACT! last night, Mick Foley announced that he will be returning to the ring at the TNA Genesis PPV. Foley will team with AJ Styles and Devon to battle Kevin Nash, Scott Steiner and Booker T.

WWE Tribute To The Troops Special BOMBS

2008-12-29T02:53:00.000-08:00

The WWE Tribute to the Troops special, which aired on December 20th, scored a 0.9 broadcast rating with 2.9 million viewers overall.

Dana White getting that "UFC Money" at UFC 92

2008-12-29T02:50:00.000-08:00

The UFC ended 2008 with "The Ultimate 2008" which featured three main event caliber fights on its card. UFC 92 drew 14,103 fans in attendance and brought in $3.47 million dollars at the gate.

Brock Lesnar's Next Opponet/Fight Has Been Confirmed

2008-12-29T02:48:00.000-08:00

UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar's next opponent has been confirmed. He will be getting a rematch with Frank Mir sometime in 2009, who defeated him at UFC 81 on February 2, 2008 with a first-round submission. Frank Mir defeated Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira at last night's UFC pay-per-view by TKO in Round 2 at 1:54.

MMAScoops.com is reporting that Dana White and company weren't just collecting money though, they did also issue $60,000 to three fighters for their performances in last night's Pay-Per-View event. Fight of the Night: Rashad Evans & Forrest Griffin were each awarded $60,000 for their three round title fight. Knockout of the Night: Quinton Jackson took home $60,000 for knocking out Wanderlei Silva in the 1st. There wasn't a submission last night, so the submission of the night award was not issued.

Nogueira Addresses KO; Fight Against Couture?

2008-12-29T02:41:00.000-08:00

Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is a true MMA legend. The highly regarded Brazilian jui-jitsu practitioner was the reining PRIDE heavyweight champion from Dec. 2001 to Mar. 2003, when he lost the title to Fedor Emelianenko.

Nogueira was considered by many to be unbeatable from 2000 to 2003 running off an impressive streak of 13 victories before his highly anticipated match up with Emelianenko.

Known primarily for his otherworldly jui-jitsu skills, a big heart, and tremendous chin coming into the UFC, Nogueira cemented all of these traits before the eyes of American fans with two unbelievable comebacks in consecutive fights against Heath Herring and Tim Sylvia.

Nogueira appeared dazed and took a high degree of punishment in both fights, particularly against Silvia, but was able to secure victories due in large part to his impressive recuperative abilities.

Nogueira has fought the world's top strikers and taken their best shots in stride, always pressing forward, always looking for a mistake. And from the vicious ground and pound of Fedor Emelianenko, and stand up prowess of heavy handed Tim Sylvia, to the ferocious leg kicks of K-1 superstars Mirko Filipovic and Semmy Schilt, Nogueira had never once been knocked out until last night.

"It was the first knockout of my career, said the ever-gracious Nogueira at the post fight press conference. "I feel like I didn't fight well tonight; I didn't fight my distance. He had a great fight tonight. He was a great fighter. He had better distance than me, he had some good shots at the beginning of the fight that changed everything I was planning. He's just great, he had a great night tonight and fought very good... he threw some strong hands.

Nogueira was a bit somber, but appeared in good spirits following the fight; stating that he's committed to improving his game and insisting that he'll come back stronger and faster.

As for an upcoming opponent? How about Randy Couture?

"Yep. For sure I would accept this fight against Randy Couture," Nogueira said. "He's a great fighter. He just lost his last match but he's a true legend in this sport and I'd love to fight him. It would be a good promotion; we're both very experienced fighters and it would be a nice match."

Let's hope the UFC is listening.

UFC Headed Back To Chicago In July - Details

2008-12-29T02:39:00.000-08:00

The last time the UFC wss in Chicago, fans were losing their minds after Anderson Silva won a less than stellar match-up against Patrick Cote at UFC 90.

UFC President Dana White is hoping that the UFC's second go around in the windy city will be a more pleasant one for MMA fans.

When asked during a recent chat with AOL Fanhouse about a possible return to Chicago, White responded by simply saying "July."

It's a little early to tell who would be on the card in July. We'll have more details as they arise.

Quinton Jackson Could Face Evans After KO Victory

2008-12-29T02:35:00.000-08:00

With another blazing left hook that left another fighter defenseless on the Octagon mat, Jackson could find himself back in the title picture.

After knocking out Wanderlei Silva and getting his first victory over the Brazilian, UFC President Dana White told the media, "it does make sense for Rampage to get a title shot."

Jackson has made it clear that he would like to get a re-match with Forrest Griffin but a title shot could be calling his name.

White did go on to say that they weren't ready to make any announcements regarding the potential Light Heavyweight title match and that they would sit down and discuss their options.

Countdown To UFC 92 Draws Big Ratings Number

2008-12-29T02:32:00.000-08:00

The premiere of Countdown to UFC 92 on Spike TV drew 733,000 viewers.

Countdown to UFC 91 drew only 537,000, yet went on to become the second highest grossing PPV in UFC history.

Using the countdown show as an indication of potential PPV buyers and general interest in the show, it is safe to assume that UFC 92 will exceed expectations and produce a large number of PPV buys.

UFC 92 Results - Frank MIr Dominates!

2008-12-29T02:24:00.000-08:00

Dan Evensen vs. Patrick Barry
Round 1
K-1 veterans Barry and Evenson enter and look very confident. A very sparse crowd looks on from the seats. Barry circles to his left. Barry throws Evenson down but he gets back up. Hard leg kick from Barry. Evenson clinches and pins him against fence. They are separated by reveree Yves Lavigne. Three thunderous right low kicks by Barry. Evensen takes him down. Barry scrambles back up. Barry lands another huge right low kick. Evensen stumbles to his left. Evensen quits from the low kick. Official time of the TKO is 2:36 of the first.

Ryo Chonan vs. Brad Blackburn
Round 1
Blackburn walks into the Octagon to the perfectly suited "Bad" from Michael Jackson. No moon walk is performed, unfortunately. They exchange kicks to the body. Good combos from Blackburn early; punches and kicks. Loopy left hook glances Chonan's head. Short left hook from Chonan inside. Not much action. Chonan misses a flying knee and falls onto his back. He springs back up. Blackburn with good leg kick, right cross combo. And another. Chonan is pushing the pace but Blackburn is more active. Close round. 10-9 Blackburn.

Round 2
Chonan starts the second round with a head kick but it’s blocked. Chonan slips as he's punched as he falls onto his back. Blackburn pounces. Chonan is let back up after no damage is inflicted. Hard right- and left-handed punches score for Blackburn. Blackburn shoots for a takedown but it’s stuffed. The pace slows considerably. Hard kick to Blackburn's ribs. A leg kick connects for Chonan. And another. The close round goes to Blackburn, 10-9.

Round 3
Left kick to Blackburn's ribs. And another. Blackburn continues to back away to his left. Very little action. Chonan throws a head kick and it’s blocked. And two more, all of which are blocked. Chonan is starting to look desperate. Blackburn is not taking any chances. The crowd is getting restless. Chonan catches a leg but he can't sweep for the takedown. A hard right uppercut rocks Blackburn with 40 seconds left. Blackburn is retreating. A big straight right by Chonan followed by another uppercut. The third frame is all Chonan, 10-9.

All three official judges score the contest 29-28 for Brad Blackburn.

Matt Hamill vs. Reese Andy
Round 1
The fighters trade punches but nothing clean lands. Hamill dumps Andy onto his back. Andy gets up. Left head kick by Hamill but it’s blocked. Good left kick to body from Andy. Andy tries a takedown but is stuffed and caught in a loose guillotine. Hamill lets it go. Left jab by Andy. Gash opens under Hamill's right eye. Very little action. Looping right hand by Andy near bell. 10-9 Hamill.

Round 2
There's a mouse under Andy’s left eye. Good right hand by hamill. A left and right by Hamill. A hard right knee in the clinch from Hamill. Andy is in trouble. Hamill unloads a furious barrage of punches and another knee. Andy takes another knee and falls. Hamill pounces along the fencing, teeing off with punches. Dozens of punches rain down though most are blocked. Hamill takes his opponent’s back and unloads again. Referee Steve Mazzagatti steps in to halt the bout at the 2:19 mark of round two.

Antoni Hardonk vs. Mike Wessel
Round 1
Wessell comes right at Hardonk and pushes him to the floor. Wessell pounces but is sucked into Hardonk's guard. Hardonk secures an armbar. Wessell escapes and scrambles to his feet. They clinch along fence. A series of knees from Hardonk land. Wessell looks tired already. More knees to body and head from Hardonk. Wessell desperately looks for a takedown. Hardonk pulls guard. The action slows considerably and the crowd is booing. Hardonk just misses another armbar. He goes high with his hips in search of a triangle, but the round ends. 10-9 Hardonk.

Round 2
Wessell scores a quick takedown. Hardonk is playing a high offensive guard. Hardonk sneaks out the back door and takes his opponent’s back. He's softening him up with punches. Wessell turtles to avoid the rear-naked choke. Wessell rolls over but is stuck, fully mounted. Hardonk tees off with punches. Wessell rolls back over and eats more punches. Yves Lavigne saves him at 2:09 of the second.

Yushin Okami vs. Dean Lister
Round 1
Lister enters the cage sporting a pre-fight black eye. Lister misses badly with a wild right hook. Lister tries a single-leg, but it is stuffed. Lister is able to pull guard but he can't keep Okami down. Okami lets him up. Okami is dragged to the ground after another single leg. Okami gets back up. A hard left hand by Okami connects. And another. Lister wants the fight down and pulls guard. Lister rolls to rubber guard but nothing unfolds. Okami’s round, 10-9.

Round 2
Head kick by Lister misses and Okami is pinned against the fence. They separate. Left hand by Okami lands. A takedown by Lister is stuffed. Lister lays on his back to try and lure Okami into his guard. The crowd boos. He does it again. More boos. They're up and clinch along fence. Lister pulls guard. Lister applies an omaplata but Okami escapes. Okami lands three hard punches from on top. Lister scrambles out of danger. He tries to pull guard again. Three more hard right hands from Okami connect. The round ends as the arena showers the Octagon with boos. 10-9 Okami.

Round 3
Lister comes out firing, but misses wildly. Lister is trying more takedowns but his shots are telegraphed. Lister tries pulling guard again. Finally he successfully pulls guard, but Okami lands two more right hands. Very tedious fight to watch. The crowd is restless and are begging Referee Herb Dean to stand the fighters. Okami lands a decent right and left. Lister is unable to pull any submissions. Dean stands them. Lister misses badly with looping punches. Lister tries another single leg. It’s stuffed. 10 seconds left and the crowd boos. 10-9 Okami.

All three official judges see the bout 30-27 for Yushin Okami.

Cheick Kongo vs. Mustapha al Turk
Round 1
The fighters exchange jabs to kickoff the heavyweight contest. Kongo catches an al Turk kick and trips him to the canvas. Al Turk drops levels for a takedown, but Kongo defends it well with underhooks. Al Turk switches to a double-leg attempt and then gives it up. The fighters clinch against the fencing and Kongo delivers a knee to the body. Al Turk fires back with a knee, but it’s low. Referee Steve Mazzagatti steps in to give Kongo, who absorbed the strike on his groin protector, a reprieve. Action is resumed and al Turk drops for a single-leg takedown. Kongo stuffs it and blasts al Turk with a knee that lands south of the border. Al Turk is given time to recover. Mazzagatti gathers the fighters and tells them to keep it clean. Kongo drops al Turk with two right hands. Kongo pounces with elbows and punches, opening up a huge gash over the right eye. Referee Steve Mazzagatti finally saves al Turk after a savage beating at 4:37 of the first. The stoppage should have come quicker. The gash is about as bad as anything you’ll see in MMA. Starting from above the eye, it follows a jagged path well into the hairline.

Wanderlei Silva vs. Quinton Jackson
Wanderlei Silva enters the Octagon to the sounds of Darude’s“Sandstorm,” the theme he used for years in the Pride fighting championships. Quinton Jackson follows as WEC bantamweight champion Miguel Torres snaps a picture with his cellphone as “Rampage” passes.

Round 1
Jackson storms forward and takes the center of the cage. Jackson lands a left straight and a right hand. Silva loads up on a right hand that is blocked by Jackson’s left glove. Silva goes to work on Jackson’s lead leg with a low kick. “Rampage” drops down for a takedown, but Silva is game. He sprawls on it and lands two low kicks. Jackson catches a low kick attempt but loses his balance trying to take the Brazilian down. Jackson knocks Silva out cold with a left hook counter punch. Jackson unnecessarily nailed his fallen foe with three right hands to the face as referee Yves Lavigne pulled him off at the 3:21 mark of round one.

CB Dollaway vs. Mike Massenzio
Round 1
Dollaway attacks Massenzio’s body with a kick. Massenzio, whose left knee is heavily bandaged, appears to be slow in his movement around the Ocatgon. Massenzio hurts Dollaway with a right hand. Dollaway is hurt and is forced to fend off a tight guillotine choke.

Dollaway escapes and then has to defend a Massenzio triangle choke attempt. Dollaway gets out of danger and moves to side control. To mount goes Dollaway. He punches the head, forcing Massenzio to give up his back. Dollaway flattens out Massenzio and cracks the head with both hands until referee Yves Lavigne steps in at 3:01 of the opening frame.

Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira vs. Frank Mir
Round 1
Mir fires a head kick that misses. Mir goes to the inside of Nogueira’s front leg with a low kick. Mir is picking Nogueira apart with punches and kicks early. Mir trips Nogueira to the mat and enters his guard. Mir stands and invites “Minotauro” to follow. Mir blasts Nogueira with an uppercut and another low kick. The pace slows a bit as Mir appears to tire. Nogeuria takes the center of the cage looking fresh with his jab. Mir drops Nogueira to the canvas with a right hand. Mir pounces but patiently stands back to his feet once Nogueira had recovered. To the body with a knee and a left kick goes Mir. Nogueira gets off with his hands for the first time in the bout. Mir scores another knockdown with a right hand at the sound of the bell.

Round 2
Mir attacks with a flurry of punches that come up short. Nogueira answers with a stiff low kick to Mir’s right leg. Mir’s lateral movement is good as he bounces on his toes, moving away from Nogueira’s power. Frank Mir steps forward in the pocket and and puts Noqueira down with two left hooks. Mir finishes the Brazilian with punches on the floor.

Forrest Griffin vs. Rashad Evans
Round 1
Griffin stalks the challenger around the cage, but Rashad connects first with a left hand. Grffin misses on a low kick. Griffin loads up a right hand that nearly connects. Griffin lands a low kick and a foot to the body. Evans returns the favor with a hard low kick of his own. The champion throws three jabs but they all fall short of their target. Griffin abandons his jab with a punching flurry and is cracked with a straight right to the ribs and a low kick. The champion again goes at Evans’ left leg with a kick. Evans switches to a southpaw stance to avoid punishment on the leg. He switches back to orthodox and gets the best of a punching exchange. A hard body punch prompts Griffin to take a deep breath.

Round 2
Griffin takes the center of the cage and moves toward Evans. Griffin lands a low kick and a right hand. Griffin gets busy from the Thai clinch with knees to the chin and body. Evans eats a punch and then taunts the champion by blowing a kiss and then touching his athletic cup. Evans, still smiling, absorbs another low kick to his left leg. And two more. Griffin is scoring big with his low kicks. The challenger attempts to kick back but his balance has been affected by the abuse to his legs. Evans connects with a clean straight counter right to the chin. Griffin shakes it off and stays busy with kicks and punches from the outside. A hard right from the champion closes the period.

Round 3
Griffin slips during an exchange and is forced to work from his back. Evans pounds away with punches from both hands as referee Steve Mazzagatti looks on closely. Griffin hangs on and recovers enough to attempt a triangle choke and an omaplata. Evans lands five hard right hands from the top position that hurt the champion. Evans pours it on with left-handed power shots until Griffin taps out from the abuse. Rashad Evans claims the UFC light heavyweight title at 2:46 of the third round.

WWE Offers Bullshit Contracts to Talent

2008-12-29T02:21:00.000-08:00

WWE has started offering long-term contracts to several big stars with clauses strongly favoring the company. WWE has offered a five-year contract to Rey Mysterio and a ten-year contract to Randy Orton. The WWE contracts barely provide any way out for the wrestler, but are filled with out clauses that would let the company out of the deal.

For example, if there is a three-year contract, WWE could break it at any time with just 90 days notice. Some top stars have enough leverage to broker better deals, but the company is still strict about protecting themselves without clauses.

WWE would be protected if Mysterio suffered another injury or Orton had a serious meltdown and the company wanted out of the deals. In case of injury, WWE merely pays the downside guarantee, so there is incentive for wrestlers to continue working. WWE put the policy put in place in response to various wrestlers milking WCW's guaranteed contract system. This leaves the wrestlers with very little leverage.

Basically, if the wrestler is locked in for a long-term deal, the company can opt out at any time they please, so it's basically a no-lose situation for World Wrestling Entertainment.

How Many People Buy TNA PPVs?, Full Numbers inside

2008-12-29T02:05:00.000-08:00

Here are estimated pay-per-view buys figures for TNA pay-per-views in 2008:

- 20,000 for Final Resolution (Kurt Angle vs. Christian Cage I)

- 30,000 for Against All Odds (Kurt Angle vs. Christian Cage II)

- 20,000 for Destination X (Samoa Joe, Kevin Nash and Christian Cage vs. Angle Alliance)

- 55,000 for Lockdown (Samoa Joe vs. Kurt Angle)

- 25,000 for Sacrifice (Samoa Joe vs. Scott Steiner vs. Kaz)

- 20,000 for Slammiversary (King Of The Mountain Match)

- 25,000 for Victory Road (Samoa Joe vs. Booker T I)

- 35,000 for Hard Justice (Samoa Joe vs. Booker T II)

- 20,000 for No Surrender (Samoa Joe vs. Kurt Angle vs. Christian Cage)

- 35,000 for Bound For Glory (Sting vs. Samoa Joe)

- 30,000 for Turning Point (Sting vs. AJ Styles)

The figure for this month's Final Resolution pay-per-view has not been released yet.

As you can see, Lockdown was by far the most purchased TNA pay-per-view of the year.

TNA drew an average of 28,600 buys per pay-per-view in 2008, up from last year's figure of 27,250 (through November 2007).

Also, here are the figures from last year in comparison:

- 35,000 for (2006) Turning Point (Samoa Joe vs. Kurt Angle)

- 34,000 for Final Resolution (Abyss vs. Sting vs. Christian Cage)

- 23,000 for Against All Odds (Christian Cage vs. Kurt Angle)

- 36,000 for Destination X (Christian Cage vs. Kurt Angle)

- 35,000 for Lockdown (Team Angle vs. Team Cage)

- 21,000 for Sacrifice (Kurt Angle vs. Sting vs. Christian Cage)

- 22,000 for Slammiversary (King of the Mountain Match)

- 15,000 for Victory Road (Samoa Joe and Kurt Angle vs. Team 3D)

- 26,000 for Hard Justice (Samoa Joe vs. Kurt Angle)

- 17,000 for No Surrender (Kurt Angle vs. Abyss)

- 36,000 for Bound For Glory (Sting vs. Kurt Angle)

- 27,000 for Genesis (Sting and Booker T vs. Kurt Angle and Kevin Nash)

WWE Makes Changes With Referees

2008-11-23T23:55:00.000-08:00

Starting soon WWE will stop the branding of referees and all refs will wear the same shirts (likely the traditional black & white stripes), and only two refs will be going out on the road for Raw & Smackdown House Shows rather than three.

Whether this will lead to any refs being released is unknown.

Some refs also work on ring crews. Mike Posey & Charles Robinson are examples. It is possible they could be booked on some shows only as ring crew now rather than as ring crew and as refs too, as ref pay falls under the talent budget and ring crew pay falls under a different budget.

Ted DiBiase, Why He Was Written Off Television

2008-11-23T23:52:00.000-08:00

The reason why WWE wrote Ted DiBiase off television is due to him starring in "The Marine 2", WWE's second straight-to-DVD movie.

John Cena will not be apart of the movie outside of a possible cameo appearance.

It's unlikely DiBiase will be returning to television anytime soon.

A.J. Styles Leaving TNA For WWE?

2008-11-23T23:49:00.000-08:00

A contributer for the UK Sun called into the Voice of Wrestling radio show last night claiming that a couple of WWE wrestlers he had interviewed last week, including William Regal, stated that WWE may be interested in A.J. Styles once his contract expires.

WrestleZone.com can now report with relative certainty that although WWE did approach A.J. Styles about coming over, it is most likely Styles will be staying with TNA.

Possible TNA PPV & TV Spoilers

2008-11-23T23:43:00.000-08:00

If you watched the latest TNA Impact Show on Spike you heard Mick Foley announce the Main Event for Final Resolution as Sting, Booker T, Nash & Steiner vs AJ Styles, Samoa Joe & Two partners of their choice with AJ Styles winning the TNA Championship if any of the 4 Mafia Members are pinned.

So who will AJ & Joe pick?

Well if we were being logical we'd say Abyss & Matt Morgan. They faced Nash & Angle on the same episode as the announcement. Abyss is a true TNA original, and Main Event guy. Matt Morgan may have been in WWE, but it can be said he didn't have "opportunity" until he came to TNA, so he's as much an original as anyone.

Except that likely won't be the way it goes. Beer Money got involved in the finish of the match so likely Abyss & Morgan will end up with Beer Money at the PPV. I'd bet they could win the tag titles even.

So that leaves who???? Creed & Lethal? (Beat up by Mafia) Eric Young? (Beat by Booker T) Rhino? (Oh that's right he's facing Angle) A returning Petey Williams??? (He's out a month so likely not so much) Christian Cage (He was buried), maybe LAX (They are in really good Rough Cut segments for a while), Christopher Daniels (MIA but possible), Kaz (Legit recovering from surgery). All clearly are or could be with the TNA "Originals" in this fight, so those not already booked could be the choice.

But I'm betting they won't be.

So who then?

Well Team 3D, of course. Bubba mentioned the Mafia in his promo (BTW, great job by Devon..."testify my brother") Will Team 3D help AJ to win the title, and can they be trusted, or will they join the Mafia and screw the "Originals". I think that's the story or at least it's what I hear it could be.

Stay tuned.......

WWE Edits Eddie Guerrero DVD

2008-11-23T23:41:00.000-08:00

WWE has edited the forthcoming Eddie Guerrero DVD by removing any mention of Chris Benoit from the Guerrero tribute show that aired on Raw. In addition, the storyline between him and Chyna has been removed out of respect to Vickie.