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Chris Jericho Talks About The State Of The Industry, Deaths

Former WWE superstar Chris Jericho was interviewed by LeftLion.co.uk to promote his metal band Fozzy. Here are some highlight of what WWE’s first Undisputed champion said about:

His Ability To Come and Go From Wrestling:

“It wasn’t a conscious decision. I’ve always had other things I wanted to do, and I always had an opinion, which can be a dirty word with certain people. I stopped wrestling for no other reason than my contract ended in 2010, and there was a huge glut of Fozzy opportunities, so I moved on to the next thing that was happening for me. Hey, I love wrestling, and I never say never about going back – but right now I wanna see Fozzy as big as we can get it, and that’s my goal.”

Whether He’s Surprised About Shoot Videos:

“Not at all. When you’re a fan, you love hearing insider talk. Personally, I’d never do the three-hour sit-down shoot video; I’d write a book about it instead.”

Many Of His Friends In The Business Dying:

“It sucks. I was watching Raw earlier, and Hunter (HHH) was talking about how lucky he was to have all these friends in the business and he gave a list, and I thought, fuck, my friends died. It’s not happened in recent times, thank God, but there was a period not so long ago where guys were going down one after the other. It is a very tough business, and I feel so lucky that I never got into the drugs and pills. I was always a drinker – I still am to this day, and I can probably drink more than most, but if I want to go a week or two between having those drinks, I can. I don’t know, man. Maybe because of the music side of my life, and because I didn’t have all my eggs in one basket, wrestling wasn’t the be all and end all.”

The State of the Wrestling Industry:

“Its an experience thing. I think my generation of guys was one of the best because we were going around the world learning their craft before we ever got to the WWE. Now there’s a lot of guys there who have less than five years experience. And I don’t think I really, really knew exactly what I was doing until I came back in 2008 when it came to manipulation of a crowd. I had great stuff before that, don’t get me wrong – but it wasn’t until then that I felt on certain nights that I was the best in the world. It takes years to become truly great at anything, and the guys there at the moment haven’t had five years experience, never mind ten or fifteen.”

Check Out: CM Punk Calls Out Chris Jericho Last Week & Jericho Responds

Jim Ross On RAW Next Week, CM Punk’s GTS Pizza Returning

– WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross says he will be returning to television at next Monday’s 3-hour Raw from Boston. After two weeks of delays, Ross willfinally take the Michael Cole Challenge. Ross tweeted during Monday’s RAW:

“I’ll be in Boston next week for the 3 hour Raw & I will take the Michael Cole Challenge whatever it that is. Is it a setup? Does it matter?”

– C.M. Punk’s specialty “Go To Sleep” pizza is will be returning to a Chicago pizzeria around Thanksgiving time, according to the Chicago Tribune..

The “GTS Pizza,” which features smoked turkey leg, sliced potatoes, swiss cheese, and onions, will be available at Ian’s Pizza from November 21-27.

Punk visited Ian’s Pizza over the summer (along with Beth Phoenix and Colt Cabana) and created the pizza himself.

WWE RAW Results From Liverpool, England

Dark Match:

* The Usos defeated Trent Baretta and Derek Bateman.

WWE RAW (Airing Tonight on USA)

John Cena came out to open the show. Cena hyped The Rock’s appearance on RAW next and hyped that this is the first time ever RAW has taped from Liverpool.

The Miz and R-Truth interrupted Cena and talked about how they will defeat him and The Rock at Survivor Series. It was revealed that Awesome Truth will fight Cena and a partner tonight on RAW. Cena bragged that his mystery partner for tonight is a future WWE Hall of Famer.

Miz and R-Truth charged the ring to attack Cena, but Zack Ryder came out and made the save.

John Morrison defeated US Champion Dolph Ziggler in a non-title match.

Mason Ryan defeated JTG in a quick match.

Zack Ryder had a brief exchange with The Bella Twins backstage.

WWE Champion Alberto Del Rio defeated Kofi Kingston with the cross arm breaker. Ricardo Rodriguez introduced Del Rio. After the match, Del Rio put Kofi back in his arm breaker submission holds – which brought out C.M. Punk to a massive pop.

Punk and Del Rio went back and forth on the mic – with Del Rio calling Punk a coward. Del Rio told Punk they should call off their match at Survivor Series – but Punk refused and the two started to brawl. Punk hit Ricardo Rodriguez with a Go To Sleep.

Jack Swagger defeated Santino Marella.

Jerry Lawler came out and introduced Kelly Kelly. Kelly plugs her new Maxim cover and spread (view here). Beth Phoenix and Natalya came out and interrupted her. The Divas of Doom threaten to beat up Kelly Kelly until Alicia Fox made the save. Kelly and Alicia revealed Kelly’s Maxim magazine cover.

John Laurinaitis came out and introduced Kevin Nash, who walked to the ring to the old NWO theme music. Nash talked about how he should have buried Triple H back in 1995, but he let Hunter into the Kliq as a favor to Shawn Michaels.  Nash said Hunter would be nothing without him and complained about his legends contract. Nash said he could be world champion today if he wanted to – and that he showed everyone “how to play the game.”

– John Laurinaitis and David Otunga were shown walking around backstage, when CM Punk bumped into them and said he’ll be the next WWE champion. Punk started to fight with Otunga but was attacked by Alberto Del Rio.

– The Miz and R-Truth defeated John Cena and Zack Ryder in what was said to be a really good match. Awesome Truth got the win after The Miz pinned Cena while R-Truth held Cena’s legs down.

Dark Match Main Event

–  The Miz defeated John Cena after R-Truth held Cena’s feet down while Miz pinned him once again. Dolph Ziggler came out after the match and the heels beat down Cena and Zack Ryder. Out came CM Punk to even the odds. CM Punk and John Cena took turns beating up Dolph Ziggler – with fans cheering for Punk’s attacks and booing Cena’s. Zack Ryder hit Dolph Ziggler with a Rough Ryde and CM Punk hit Ziggler with the Attitude Adjustment to end the show.

United States Title Match Added To Survivor Series (11/20)

This afternoon, we reported that WWE has added a traditional 5-on-5 elimination match to the upcoming Survivor Series pay-per-view.

Now – we’ve got another match that’s been made official: United States champion Dolph Ziggler will defend against New York’s own Zack Ryder.

With those two matches set, here’s the updated card for WWE Survivor Series, which takes place on November 20th from New York City’s Madison Square Garden:

The Rock Returns To The Ring:
John Cena and The Rock vs. The Miz and R-Truth

United States Title Match:
Dolph Ziggler (c) vs. Zack Ryder

WWE Championship Match:
Alberto Del Rio (c) vs. CM Punk

World Heavyweight Title Match:
Mark Henry (c) vs. The Big Show

TEAM ORTON vs. TEAM BARRETT 5-on-5 Match:
Randy Orton, Sheamus, Mason Ryan, Kofi Kingston and Sin Cara vs. Wade Barrett, Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes, Christian, Jack Swagger and Hunico.

Preview For Tonight’s RAW Supershow From The UK

WWE will be taping tonight’s RAW Supershow this afternoon from Liverpool, England.

SEScoops.com will have detailed spoiler results for tonight’s RAW this afternoon, so check back later for those.

Here’s what we’ll see tonight on RAW:

– Kevin Nash will make his return to WWE television after being “re-hired” by interim RAW GM John Laurinaitis.

– Brodus Clay will make his return to WWE television tonight as well.

– The Michael Cole Challenge match between Cole and Jim Ross that was supposed to take place last week was bumped to this week’s show. However, it’s worth noting that Jim Ross wrote on Twitter over the weekend that he is not booked for today’s taping, so we’ll see if that actually occurs.

– Despite an injury angle that will keep him out of action for up to 6 weeks, Triple H is advertised for the dark match main event. He will team with CM Punk against The Miz and R-Truth.

– There are no SmackDown stars advertised for tonight’s RAW “Supershow” – as the SmackDown crew has their own live event scheduled for tonight in Birmingham, England.

Hulk Hogan & DDP Starring In New Thriller Movie (Poster)

Wrestling legends Hulk Hogan and Diamond Dallas Page will be starring in a new thriller movie from Corn Bread films titled, “Black River.”

The film, now in pre-production, will be directed by Joe Eckardt (“Pizza Man”) and is based on a script by Eric Anderson (“Shock”).

Here’s the official synopsis of the movie:

“After losing his son to a tragic accident, Clayton Elies life was destroyed by alcohol abuse and violence that ended his marriage. When he moves to the small Midwestern town of Black River in an attempt to begin again, he finds himself at the center of a series of murders that echo a long dormant secret from the town’s past.”

“After several sleepless nights that lead to a long night of heavy drinking and a subsequent blackout, Clayton awakens the next morning to find his neighbor and her small child brutally murdered and the murder weapon inside his apartment. When he is forced to hide the evidence by the untimely arrival of an FBI profiler, Clayton’s life rapidly deteriorates into a storm of violence, murder and small town intrigue.”

“Is Clayton a cold-blooded killer, or the victim of a malevolent force that has descended upon the town of Black River?”

Here’s the movie poster featuring Hulk Hogan:

Warrior Posts Unedited Footage From TMZ Interview

Last week, TMZ.com caught up with the Ultimate Warrior at an autograph signing in California and asked him about the Occupy Wallstreet protests in New York City.

TMZ framed Warrior’s response as him saying that the protesters were iPad & iPhone-toting hypocrites who are against big corporations but still indulge in the consumer-culture of buying expensive gadgets they don’t need.

Warrior took offense to TMZ reporting that Warrior was calling the protestors hypocrites – and posted his own extended video of his interview with TMZ – and giving more contest to what he said:

Mick Foley Talks About His Return, Who He Wants To Wrestle

Mick Foley appeared on Wrestling Voice Radio this week and spoke about returning to WWE last week at a live event from Dublin, Ireland.

When asked about why Foley chose an overseas house show for his big return, Foley said:

“The basic answer is because I just happened to be flying into Dublin the day they were there and my hotel was literally across the street. I called and asked if I could come hang out and it was a lot of fun.”

Foley was originally advertised November 14th RAW Supershow from Boston featuring The Rock’s return, but says he wasn’t surprised when WWE scrapped the idea and decided to keep the attention on The Rock that night.

Foley also said he probably has one big match left in him and named The Miz as the person he’d want to wrestle against.

Here’s audio of the interview:

WrestleMania 28 Ticket Giveaway Contest

SEScoops.com is giving away 2 tickets to WrestleMania 28 on April 1, 2012 at Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

We’ve got our tickets already – and will be buying 2 more tickets to give away to our loyal readers.

All you have to do to enter is respond to this article with a comment below (using a valid email address, Facebook or Twitter account) and you are entered to win.

Easy enough, right?

Good luck!!

Dixie Carter Talks Impact Going Live & Touring, Heat, X-Division

TNA President Dixie Carter answered fan questions about the following topics on the TNA website:

Impact’s name change: “The show has always been called Impact. But as we grew the TNA corporate brand beyond Impact, we felt it was important (and the time) to let Impact stand on its own. It’s still under the TNA banner, it’s still the TNA World Heavyweight Title, but the show name is Impact Wrestling.”

Taking Impact live: “I would love Impact to be live each week, but it’s a matter of economics. As far as wrestling news sites are concerned, if you want to be surprised then people should not read them. If people choose to, they certainly shouldn’t judge anything based upon one person’s opinion, good or bad. The few times I have seen a spoiler, they always tell a limited, one-dimensional side of a story, and usually a very biased one at that.”

Letting the younger talent do media work: “We work very hard to get as many of the younger talent doing media as possible. If I had to guess, Hulk Hogan has done tens of thousands of interviews and of course, everyone in the media always wants to talk to him. It is a top priority to expose the younger talent in mainstream media and in outside film/tv projects. The more they do, the bigger their profile.”

Taking Impact on the road: “It is our top priority to take the show on the road on a permanent basis. Hopefully we will announce more live event Impact taping dates soon.”

The six-sided ring: “I liked us using the 6-sided ring for our X Division Pay-Per-View, Destination X, this year. We should do that every year, but at this time, there are no plans to bring it back as our permanent ring.”

Dealing with heat: “I think you meant haters. If so, you grow tough skin and know you will never please everyone all the time. You work to please the most people as much of the time as you can.”

The X-Division: “I am a huge X Division fan. In the beginning, we had great talent representing that division, but those top guys have moved on to other opportunities on the roster. Today, we have the best crop of new and upcoming X Division stars and we are going to give them time on the show each week.”

Having a slogan of ‘Wrestling Matters’ yet only having seven minutes of wrestling on a recent show:

The direction of TNA: “I’ve never felt better about every aspect of the company. I think Impact Wrestling is better than it has ever been. So many of the younger talent have stepped up and are earning the spotlight. We are having tremendous international success, and are growing the corporation in many new areas, which are critical to our overall growth. I’m very excited about the upcoming year.”

Video: Bobby Roode’s Post-Title Win Promo

TNA’s new World Champion Bobby Roode speaks out after capturing the gold on Thursday’s Impact Wrestling. Roode says things are about to change in TNA – because it’s his time.

McMahon Endorses Romney, WWE Studios In Trouble & More

– United States Senate candidate Linda McMahon has officially endorsed Rebpulican candidate Mitt Romney for the 2012 Presidential election. For more on Linda’s endorsement of Romney, check out Politico.com.

– At Thursday’s WWE Investor conference call, it was announced that revenues from WWE Studios plummeted a staggering 51% during the third quarter of 2011. Vince McMahon stated on Thursday that WWE plans to “monitor and refine to improve future performance.”  WWE plans to release three films already wrapped over the next six months.

Entertainment publication Variety has an article up looking WWE’s struggling film division, which you can read here.

CTPost.com has an article up looking at the strong performance of WWE’s stock on Thursday despite the company’s Q3 earnings dropping to $10.6 million, down from $14.3 million last year. CTPost wrote:

“Stamford-based WWE reported earnings Thursday and saw shares up 3.4 percent to $10.66 on the New York Stock Exchange. The wrestling entertainment company said earnings fell to $10.6 million, or 14 cents per share in the third quarter, from $14.3 million, or 19 cents a share, over the same period last year.”

“WWE’s film business was a drag on earnings again, but revenue from live and televised events rose nearly $5 million to $78.1 million in the quarter.”

THQ At WWE HQ, New WWE Video Games Planned (Video)

– Representatives from THQ are at WWE headquarters in Stamford, CT today to discuss future WWE video games.

– It was revealed during Thursday’s WWE investor conference call that THQ is currently working on a new WWE game that will be playable exclusively on Facebook.

– THQ is teaming with Trish Stratus for a WWE ’12 give-away contest. Fans can enter at Trish Stratus’ Facebook Page an- with the winner receiving a copy of WWE ’12, Trish’s FitGloves and Stratusphere Yoga DVD.

– WWE’s All Stars video game will be coming to the Nintendo 3DS soon. Here’s the first preview from THQ:

WrestleMania Kickoff Party Tonight In Miami

WWE is hosting a WrestleMania 28 kickoff party tonight in Miami, Florida If you can get to Miami – this is your chance to buy WrestleMania 28 tickets before they are available to the public and meet several WWE Superstars, Divas and Legends.

The staff of SEScoops.com will be there – will you??

Here’s what you need to know:

Tonight:  7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at Miami, Florida’s Bayfront Park

Autograph Sessions with:

  • Rey Mysterio
  • Kelly Kelly
  • The Bella Twins
  • Rosa
  • Sgt. Slaughter
  • Jimmy Hart

Additional Activites

  • Live Entertainment from the All Star Band
  • Family Fun Zone

Rey Mysterio Talks About Returning, Mil Mascaras & More

Injured WWE star Rey Mysterio spoke to The Miami Herald this week to promote WrestleMania 28 tickets going on sale this weekend. Here are some highlights of what Mysterio said about:

Hoping to be Back in Time for WrestleMania 28:

“Especially after the injury that I had, I want to make sure to work hard throughout this therapy so I can go ahead and be back by then.”

Mil Mascaras Entering the WWE Hall of Fame Next Year:

“I think he definitely brought something that was very unique to pro wrestling. You had seen masked wrestlers before but nothing like Mil Mascaras. Not only did he revolutionize the sport in the United States but also in Japan and in Mexico. You would never see that man wear the same outfit twice. His style in the ring, his presence, the designs on his masks, everything was so different every time. I believe he did revolution, to a certain degree, the sport in all three countries.”

The Importance of Luchadores Speaking English in the US:

“I think it’s very important. It’s important to understand the culture, to speak the language, to be able to get around and speak to your teammates. It’s important to be able to express yourself in the ring and on the microphone to the WWE Universe. I think it is a big factor in this industry now.”

John Morrison Talks About His Losing Streak

– The WWE wbsite has an article up looking at the recent losing streak of John Morrison titled, “Has JoMo lost his mojo?”

In case you hadn’t noticed how bad Morrison has been jobbing as of late – the article states that Morrison hasn’t won a match since August and has been “smashed” by Cody Rhodes, “squashed” by Mark Henry, “creamed” by Wade Barrett, “dismantled” by Alberto Del Rio and has been “tasting the bottom of Drew McIntyre’s boot” on WWE Superstars.

There have been various reports that Morrison is in the ‘doghouse’ – but Morrison says his losing streak can be attributed to the fact that he returned to action (following a neck injury) sooner than he should have:

“I came back a little bit too early. Physically, I’m here. Spiritually, I’m out of my mind. I’ve got all these things going on in the periphery.”

“What I need to do is cut everything off and go back to square one. What was it that made me want to get into this business as a little John Morrison? I’ve lost touch with that. And for me to be a success I need to get it back.”

Related News: Melina Says WWE Is Killing John Morrison’s Career

WWE SmackDown Preview For Tonight

The following is a spoiler-free preview for tonight’s episode of WWE SmackDown on SyFy:

  • World Heavyweight Champion Mark Henry vs. Daniel Bryan
  • WWE Intercontinental champion Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton (Street Fight)
  • Ted DiBiase vs. Tyson Kidd
  • Alicia Fox vs. Natalya
  • Sheamus vs. Wade Barrett
  • Epico makes his WWE debut against Sin Cara

Also appearing are Big Show, Christian, Teddy Long and more.

Bobby Roode Wins The TNA World Title On Impact

Bobby Roode came up short at Bound For Glory and failed to capture the TNA World title. Two days later, Roode’s former tag partner James Storm defeated Kurt Angle and won the TNA title himself. Now – we have another new TNA world champion for the second time in a month.

On Thursday’s Impact Wrestling, James Storm dropped the title to Robert Roode. Roode turned heel during their match and hit Storm with a beer bottle to win.

We will have video on the site on Friday – what do you think about our new TNA champion?

WWE Reports Third Quarter 2011 Financial Results

WWE(R) Reports 2011 Third Quarter Results

STAMFORD, Conn., Nov 03, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) — WWE  today announced financial results for its third quarter ended September 30, 2011. Revenues totaled $108.5 million as compared to $109.6 million in the prior year quarter. Operating income was $15.9 million as compared to $20.3 million in the prior year quarter. Net income was $10.6 million, or $0.14 per share, as compared to $14.3 million, or $0.19 per share, in the prior year quarter. Impacting comparability of our year-over-year results were $5.1 million of film impairment charges in the current year quarter. Excluding the impact of the film impairments in the current quarter, Adjusted Operating income was $21.0 million as compared to $20.3 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted Net income was $14.1 million, or $0.19 per share, as compared to $14.3 million, or $0.19 per share.

“In the third quarter, our results reflected the Company’s continued focus on improving business results in a difficult environment,” stated Vince McMahon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Despite the challenging economic headwinds, both domestically and abroad, we generated increased profits across a majority of our businesses, with the main exception being our film business which we continue to monitor and refine to improve future performance. We believe the sluggish economy and our ongoing talent transition were important factors that affected the results of our other businesses. Based on our history of developing talent and creating content with broad appeal, we are confident we can address our creative challenges. Further, by taking advantage of our strategic opportunities, including the anticipated 2012 launch of a WWE network, we can achieve meaningful growth.”

Comparability of Results

The current year quarter results included $5.1 million in film impairment charges related to our films Inside Out, The Chaperone, and Knucklehead. In order to facilitate an analysis of our financial results on a more comparable basis, where noted, we have adjusted our results to exclude these film impairment charges from our third quarter of 2011 results. Adjusted Operating income increased 3% to $21.0 million and Adjusted EBITDA increased 5% to $24.6 million. (See Schedules of Adjustments in Supplemental Information) Please note that our revised film strategy utilizing a self-distribution model also has an impact on the comparability of results but is not adjusted in the aforementioned schedules.

Three Months Ended September 30, 2011 — Results by Business Segment

Total revenues declined 1% to $108.5 million driven primarily by declines in WWE Studios and Consumer Products, partially offset by Live and Televised Entertainment. Revenues from North America increased by 1%, led by growth in our Pay-Per-View and Home Video businesses. Revenues outside North America decreased 6%, primarily due to a decline in our Consumer Products segment, which was partially offset by an increase in Television rights revenue and favorable changes in foreign exchange rates.

The following tables reflect net revenues by segment and by region for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010. (Dollars in millions)

Three Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
Net Revenues 2011 2010
——————————– ——— ———
Live and Televised Entertainment $ 78.1 $ 73.8
Consumer Products 19.8 21.4
Digital Media 6.9 6.8
WWE Studios 3.7 7.6
—– —–
Total $ 108.5 $ 109.6
==== ===== ==== =====

Three Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
Net Revenues by Region 2011 2010
———————————– —– —–
North America $ 79.6 $ 78.9
Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) 14.1 15.0
Asia Pacific (APAC) 12.6 13.3
Latin America 2.2 2.4
—– —–
Total $ 108.5 $ 109.6
==== ===== ==== =====

Live and Televised Entertainment

Revenues from our Live and Televised Entertainment businesses were $78.1 million for the current year quarter as compared to $73.8 million in the prior year quarter, representing a 6% increase.

– Live Event revenues were $23.0 million as compared to $22.8 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting an increase of 1%. — There were 79 events, including 15 international events, during the current year quarter as compared to 78 events, including 16 international events, in the prior year quarter.

– North American events generated $14.2 million of revenues from 64 events as compared to $13.8 million from 62 events in the prior year quarter. North American average attendance decreased 6% to approximately 4,900 from 5,200 in the prior year quarter. The average ticket price for North American events was $41.34 in the current year quarter as compared to $41.07 in the prior year quarter.

– International events generated approximately $8.8 million of revenues from 15 events as compared to $9.0 million from 16 events in the prior year quarter. International average attendance increased 7% to approximately 7,200 from 6,700 in the prior year quarter. In addition, average ticket prices were $80.08 as compared to $86.07 in the prior year quarter, reflecting a 7% decrease, due in part to differences in territory mix that were partially offset by favorable changes in foreign exchange rates.

– Pay-Per-View revenues were $15.8 million as compared to $13.6 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting the impact of buys associated with WrestleMania, a prior period event. There were 65,000 incremental buys for WrestleMania in the quarter, which has a higher retail price than our other events. Buys for the three comparable events in the current and prior year quarter, however, declined 4%, reflecting a 3% increase in domestic buys that was more than offset by a 14% decline in international buys.

The details for the number of buys (in 000s) are as follows:

Broadcast Month Events (in chronological order) Three Months Ended Sept. 30,
————————–
2011 2010
——— —————–
July Money in the Bank(TM) 195 165
August SummerSlam® 296 350
September Night of Champions® 161 165
Prior events 106 55
——— —————–
Total 758 735
========= =================

– Television Rights Fees revenues were $34.0 million as compared to $31.1 million in the prior year quarter. This increase was primarily due to improved terms and contractual increases from our existing programs, partially offset by the absence of rights fees for our NXT(TM) and WWE Superstars programs.

– Venue Merchandise revenues were $3.6 million as compared to $3.9 million in the prior year quarter, as the impact of a 12% decrease in total domestic (U.S.) attendance was partially offset by an 8% increase in domestic per capita merchandise sales to $10.18 in the current year quarter.

Consumer Products

Revenues from our Consumer Products businesses decreased 7% to $19.8 million from $21.4 million in the prior year quarter, primarily due to the performance of our Licensing business.

– Home Video net revenues were $8.3 million as compared to $7.2 million in the prior year quarter, a 15% increase driven by an adjustment to our allowance for returns and an increase in revenue per unit, partially offset by a 17% reduction in shipments to 686,000 units. The reduction in our allowance for returns reflected better than expected sell-through rates for titles released in prior quarters. Average prices increased 4% to $13.18 due to the timing of promotional activity and a reduction in manufacturer’s discounts.

– Licensing revenues were $9.0 million as compared to $10.8 million in the prior year quarter as lower toy, collectible and apparel sales more than offset an increase in video game sales. Revenues related to toys declined 24%, or $0.9 million, reflecting a challenging retail environment for certain toy categories. Revenues from our collectible products declined due to a tough comparison to a successful product launch in the prior year. Revenue from video games, increased by approximately $1.1 million, led by sales of the WWE All Stars video game, which launched earlier this year. Unit shipments of our SmackDown vs. Raw video game decreased 59% to 135,000 units as compared to the prior year quarter.

– Magazine publishing net revenues were $1.9 million as compared to $2.6 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting lower newsstand sales in the current year quarter.

Digital Media

Revenues from our Digital Media related businesses were $6.9 million as compared to $6.8 million in the prior year quarter, representing a 1% increase.

– WWE.com revenues were $3.7 million as compared to $4.0 million in the prior year quarter, primarily reflecting a decline in mobile content revenues.

– WWEShop revenues were $3.2 million as compared to $2.8 million in the prior year quarter. This was driven by a 15% increase in the number of orders to approximately 68,000 and a 2% increase in average revenue per order to $46.94.

WWE Studios

During the quarter, we recorded revenue of $3.7 million as compared to $7.6 million in the prior year quarter, with the decline in revenue driven by the relative performance of our current film releases compared to the prior year quarter release. Film profits declined $5.5 million from the prior year quarter reflecting the performance of recent releases; i.e., Inside Out, The Chaperone, and Knucklehead. Lower home video sales than anticipated contributed to revised ultimate projections, which resulted in a $5.1 million impairment charge for these films. The decline in film profits also reflected lower receipts from our licensed films and the previously disclosed change in our distribution model for films. Under our self-distribution model, we record a film’s advertising costs and distribution expenses in our results as incurred and recognize film receipts as earned.

Profit Contribution (Net revenues less cost of revenues)

Profit contribution decreased to $44.0 million in the current year quarter as compared to $47.8 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting a loss in our WWE Studios segment and lower Licensing profits. Gross profit contribution margin decreased to approximately 41% as compared to 44% in the prior year quarter, primarily driven by the performance of our film business, which reflected the recognition of film impairment charges. Excluding these charges, Adjusted Profit contribution increased to $49.1 million in the current year quarter as compared to $47.8 million in the prior year quarter and Adjusted profit margins increased to 45% as compared to 44% in the prior year quarter.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

SG&A expenses were $24.5 million for the current year quarter as compared to $24.3 million in the prior year quarter, led by increases in salary, severance and benefit costs, as well as higher legal and professional fees, in-part related to the anticipated launch of a WWE Network. These were partially offset by a reduction in accrued management incentive compensation.

Depreciation and amortization

Depreciation and amortization expense was $3.6 million for the current year quarter as compared to $3.2 million in the prior year quarter.

EBITDA

EBITDA was approximately $19.5 million in the current year quarter as compared to $23.5 million in the prior year quarter. The decrease was primarily driven by reduced profits from our film business. Adjusted EBITDA (excluding the film impairment charges in the current year quarter) increased 5% to $24.6 million in the current quarter as compared to $23.5 million in the prior year quarter.

Investment and Other (Expense) Income

Investment income was $0.5 million in both the current year quarter and prior year quarters. Other expense of $0.7 million, as compared to other income of $0.9 million in the prior year quarter, reflects foreign exchange losses of $0.4 million in the current year quarter as compared to foreign exchange gains of $0.9 million in the prior year quarter.

Effective tax rate

In the current year quarter, the effective tax rate was 32% as compared to 34% in the prior year quarter. The prior year rate was negatively impacted by a $0.4 million adjustment relating to differences between our tax returns as filed and our estimated tax provision.

Summary Results for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011

Total revenues through the nine months ended September 30, 2011 were $371.0 million as compared to $355.1 million in the prior year period. Operating income for the current year period was $50.1 million versus $67.8 million in the prior year period. Net income was $33.5 million, or $0.45 per share, as compared to $45.3 million, or $0.60 per share, in the prior year period. EBITDA was $61.0 million for the current nine month period as compared to $76.3 million in the prior year period. The current year period was impacted by $11.2 million in film impairment charges, while the prior year period reflected an infrastructure tax incentive which reduced depreciation and amortization expense by $1.6 million. Adjusting for these items, Adjusted Operating income for the current year period was $61.3 million versus $66.2 million in the prior year period. Adjusted Net Income was $41.1 million, or $0.55 per share, as compared to $44.4 million, or $0.59 per share, in the prior year period.

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011 — Results by Business Segment

Total revenues grew 4% to $371 million driven primarily by an increase in Live and Televised Entertainment, which occurred mostly in North America. Growth in North America also reflected increased revenue from Licensing (within our Consumer Products segment) and from WWE Studios. Revenues from outside North America were essentially flat as growth from Television and WWE Studios and an approximate $3 million favorable impact from changes in foreign exchange rates were offset by a decline in Consumer Products.

The following charts reflect net revenues by segment and by geographical region for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010. (Dollars in millions)

Net Revenues by Segment
——————
Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
Live and Televised Entertainment $ 259.0 $ 249.5
Consumer Products 76.2 75.4
Digital Media 19.2 18.6
WWE Studios 16.6 11.6
—– —–
Total $ 371.0 $ 355.1
==== ===== ==== =====
Net Revenues by Region
——————
Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
North America $ 272.3 $ 256.4
Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) 57.0 55.6
Asia Pacific (APAC) 29.3 29.2
Latin America 12.4 13.9
—– —–
Total $ 371.0 $ 355.1
==== ===== ==== =====

Live and Televised Entertainment

Revenues from our Live and Televised Entertainment businesses were $259.0 million for the current period as compared to $249.5 million in the prior year period, an increase of 4%.

Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
Live Events $ 77.8 $ 78.0
Pay-Per-View $ 63.7 $ 56.4
Venue Merchandise $ 14.4 $ 14.7
Television Rights Fees $ 97.6 $ 91.3
Television Advertising $ 0.7 $ 4.5
WWE Classics On Demand $ 3.4 $ 3.5

Consumer Products

Revenues from our Consumer Products businesses were $76.2 million as compared to $75.4 million in the prior year, an increase of 1%.

Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
Home Video $ 23.9 $ 26.3
Licensing $ 44.9 $ 39.4
Magazine Publishing $ 5.7 $ 7.9

Digital Media

Revenues from our Digital Media related businesses were $19.2 million as compared to $18.6 million in the prior year, an increase of 3%.

Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
WWE.com $ 9.8 $ 10.4
WWEShop $ 9.4 $ 8.2

WWE Studios

During the current year period, WWE Studios recognized revenue of $16.6 million as compared to $11.6 million in the prior year period, with the growth in revenue driven by an increase in the number of film releases (3 in the current year period as compared to 1 in the prior year period). Lower than anticipated performance of several films contributed to revised ultimate projections, which resulted in $11.2 million of impairment charges. Film profits declined $14.6 million from the prior year period driven by the aforementioned impairment charges and the increased distribution expenses associated with the higher number of releases under our self-distribution model in the current period as compared to the prior year period.

Profit Contribution (Net revenues less cost of revenues)

Profit contribution decreased to $144.4 million in the current year period as compared to $156.6 million in the prior year period primarily driven by the performance of our WWE Studios business and the absence of domestic television rights fees for our NXT(TM) and WWE Superstars programs. Adjusted Profit contribution (excluding the film impairment charges in the current year period) of $155.6 million was essentially flat to the prior year period as increased profits from Licensing and Pay-Per-View were offset by the absence of the domestic television rights fees as discussed above. Adjusted Profit contribution margin declined to approximately 42% as compared to 44% in the prior year period, primarily reflecting the resulting change in product mix.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

SG&A expenses were $83.4 million for the current year period as compared to $80.3 million in the prior year period, led by increases in salary, severance and benefit costs, as well as higher legal and professional fees, partially offset by a reduction in accrued management incentive compensation.

EBITDA

EBITDA for the current year period decreased to approximately $61.0 million as compared to $76.3 million in the prior year period, reflecting lower profit contribution and higher SG&A expenses as described above. Adjusted EBITDA (excluding the film impairment charges in the current year period) declined to $72.2 million from $76.3 million in the prior year period.

Investment and Other Income (Expense)

Investment and Other Income (Expense) was essentially unchanged from the prior year period.

Effective tax rate

The effective tax rate was 33% in both the current and prior year periods. The decrease in our current period tax rate from our anticipated rate of 35% was primarily due to a $0.6 million benefit relating to the shutdown of a Canadian subsidiary. Additionally, rates were positively impacted by the recognition of tax benefits previously unrecognized of $0.5 million and $1.3 million for the current year and prior year periods, respectively. These benefits were primarily a result of the statute of limitations expiring in jurisdictions where the Company had previously taken uncertain tax positions.

Cash Flows

Net cash provided by operating activities was $47.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 as compared to $27.9 million in the prior year period. This increase was primarily driven by the timing of feature film production activities.

On September 9th, 2011, WWE entered into a $200 million revolving credit agreement because we believed there was generally a favorable climate in the capital markets for loans of this type. While we do not have specific plans to borrow at this time, we have announced initiatives for which we may borrow going forward. These initiatives include, but are not limited to, the formation of a WWE television network and the expansion and update of our media center as well as initiatives associated with the execution of our strategy.

Additional Information

Additional business metrics are made available to investors on a monthly basis on our corporate website — corporate.wwe.com.

Note: WWE will host a conference call on November 3, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. ET to discuss the Company’s earnings results for the third quarter of 2011. All interested parties can access the conference call by dialing 855-993-1400 (conference id:WWE). Please reserve a line 15 minutes prior to the start time of the conference call. A presentation that will be referenced during the call can be found at the Company web site at corporate.wwe.com. A replay of the call will be available approximately three hours after the conference call concludes, and can be accessed at corporate.wwe.com.

WWE, a publicly traded company WWE +1.26% , is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 500 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo. Additional information on WWE WWE +1.26% can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to https://www.wwe.com/worldwide/ .

Trademarks: All WWE programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans, wrestling moves, trademarks, logos and copyrights are the exclusive property of WWE and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television distribution agreements; the need for continually developing creative and entertaining programming; the continued importance of key performers and the services of Vincent McMahon; the conditions of the markets in which we compete and acceptance of the Company’s brands, media and merchandise within those markets; our exposure to bad debt risk; uncertainties relating to regulatory and litigation matters; risks resulting from the highly competitive nature of our markets; uncertainties associated with international markets; the importance of protecting our intellectual property and complying with the intellectual property rights of others; risks associated with producing and travelling to and from our large live events, both domestically and internationally; the risk of accidents or injuries during our physically demanding events; risks relating to our film business and any new business initiative which we may undertake; risks relating to the large number of shares of common stock controlled by members of the McMahon family and the possibility of the sale of their stock by the McMahons or the perception of the possibility of such sales; the relatively small public float of our stock; and other risks and factors set forth from time to time in Company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results could differ materially from those currently expected or anticipated. In addition, our dividend is dependent on a number of factors, including, among other things, our liquidity and historical and projected cash flow, strategic plan (including alternative uses of capital), our financial results and condition, contractual and legal restrictions on the payment of dividends, general economic and competitive conditions and such other factors as our Board of Directors may consider relevant.

WWE
Consolidated Income Statements
(in thousands, except per share data)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010 2011 2010
——— ——— ——— ———
Net revenues $108,518 $109,564 $ 370,979 $ 355,131
Cost of revenues 64,455 61,763 226,531 198,542
Selling, general and administrative expenses 24,567 24,322 83,485 80,284
Depreciation and amortization 3,593 3,211 10,872 8,461
——— ——— ——— ———
Operating income 15,903 20,268 50,091 67,844
——— ——— ——— ———
Investment income, net 484 524 1,458 1,504
Interest expense (151) (64) (246) (202)
Other (expense) income, net (661) 899 (1,082) (1,173)
——— ——— ——— ———
Income before income taxes 15,575 21,627 50,221 67,973
Provision for income taxes 4,984 7,290 16,760 22,648
——— ——— ——— ———
Net income $ 10,591 $ 14,337 $ 33,461 $ 45,325
========= ========= ========= =========
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic 74,328 74,576 74,142 74,372
========= ========= ========= =========
Diluted 74,707 75,325 74,740 75,263
========= ========= ========= =========
Earnings per share:
Basic $ 0.14 $ 0.19 $ 0.45 $ 0.61
========= ========= ========= =========
Diluted $ 0.14 $ 0.19 $ 0.45 $ 0.60
========= ========= ========= =========

WWE
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
As of As of
Sept. 30, Dec. 31,
2011 2010
————– ————–
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 58,384 $ 69,823
Short-term investments 104,401 97,124
Accounts receivable, net 50,730 52,051
Inventory 2,433 2,087
Deferred income tax assets 14,097 17,128
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 14,858 20,856
Total current assets 244,903 259,069
——– ——–
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET 79,152 80,995
FEATURE FILM PRODUCTION ASSETS, NET 39,920 56,253
INVESTMENT SECURITIES 14,811 15,037
OTHER ASSETS 5,938 4,375
——– ——–
TOTAL ASSETS $ 384,724 $ 415,729
==== ======== ==== ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Current portion of long-term debt $ 1,238 $ 1,169
Accounts payable 14,247 18,441
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 22,063 24,478
Deferred income 17,695 28,323
Total current liabilities 55,243 72,411
——– ——–
LONG-TERM DEBT 684 1,621
NON-CURRENT TAX LIABILITIES 7,534 15,068
NON-CURRENT DEFERRED INCOME 8,646 9,881
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Class A common stock 279 275
Class B common stock 465 465
Additional paid-in capital 338,435 336,592
Accumulated other comprehensive income 3,104 3,144
Accumulated deficit (29,666) (23,728)
——– ——–
Total stockholders’ equity 312,617 316,748
——– ——–
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 384,724 $ 415,729
==== ======== ==== ========

WWE
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010
——— ———
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income $ 33,461 $ 45,325
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Amortization of feature film production assets 23,832 7,014
Revaluation of warrants – (552)
Depreciation and amortization 10,872 8,461
Realized gain on sale of investments (32) (55)
Amortization of investment income 1,958 1,286
Amortization of debt issuance costs 51 –
Stock compensation costs 2,692 6,522
Provision (recovery) for doubtful accounts 17 (37)
Provision for inventory obsolescence 1,504 1,530
(4,348) (8,946)
Benefit from deferred income taxes
Excess tax benefit from stock-based payment arrangements (138) (2,723)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable 2,866 11,008
Inventory (1,851) (1,178)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 1,905 (8,902)
Feature film production assets (7,358) (27,343)
Accounts payable (4,194) 937
Accrued expenses and other liabilities (1,568) (10,882)
Deferred income (11,864) 6,443
——— ———
Net cash provided by operating activities 47,805 27,908
——— ———
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of property and equipment and other assets (10,466) (9,130)
Proceeds from infrastructure incentives – 4,130
Purchase of short-term investments (33.472) (88,343)
Proceeds from sales or maturities of investments 25,314 59,035
——— ———
Net cash used in investing activities (18,624) (34,308)
——— ———
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Repayments of long-term debt (868) (804)
Debt issuance costs (1,844) –
Dividends paid (38,879) (62,598)
Issuance of stock, net 833 961
Proceeds from exercise of stock options – 695
Excess tax benefit from stock-based payment arrangements 138 2,723
——— ———
Net cash used in financing activities (40,620) (59,023)
——— ———
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (11,439) (65,423)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD 69,823 149,784
——— ———
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 58,384 $ 84,361
========= =========

WWE
Supplemental Information – EBITDA
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010 2011 2010
——— ———- ——— ———
Net income reported on U.S. GAAP basis $ 10,591 $ 14,337 $ 33,461 $ 45,325
Provision for income taxes 4,984 7,290 16,760 22,648
Investment, interest and other expense (income), net 328 (1,359) (130) (129)
Depreciation and amortization 3,593 3,211 10,872 8,461
EBITDA $ 19,496 $ 23,479 $ 60,963 $ 76,305
========= ========== ========= =========

Non-GAAP Measure:

EBITDA is defined as net income before investment, interest and other expense/income, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. The Company’s definition of EBITDA does not adjust its U.S. GAAP basis earnings for the amortization of Feature Film production assets. Although it is not a recognized measure of performance under U.S. GAAP, EBITDA is presented because it is a widely accepted financial indicator of a company’s performance. The Company uses EBITDA to measure its own performance and to set goals for operating managers. EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to net income, cash flows from operations or any other indicator of WWE’s performance or liquidity, determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

WWE
Supplemental Information – Schedule of Adjustments
(in millions)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010 2011 2010
———- ———- ———– ———–
Profit contribution $ 44.0 $ 47.8 $ 144.4 $ 156.6
Adjustments (Added back):
Film Impairment Charges 5.1 – 11.2 –
Adjusted Profit contribution $ 49.1 $ 47.8 $ 155.6 $ 156.6
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Selling, general and administrative expenses 24.5 24.3 83.4 80.3
Adjusted Selling, general and administrative expenses $ 24.5 $ 24.3 $ 83.4 $ 80.3
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Depreciation and amortization 3.6 3.2 10.9 8.5
Adjustments (Added back):
Infrastructure tax credit – – – 1.6
Adjusted Depreciation and amortization $ 3.6 $ 3.2 $ 10.9 $ 10.1
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Operating income $ 15.9 $ 20.3 $ 50.1 $ 67.8
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Adjusted Operating income $ 21.0 $ 20.3 $ 61.3 $ 66.2
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Depreciation and amortization (Added back) 3.6 3.2 10.9 8.5
Adjusted Depreciation and amortization (Added back) 3.6 3.2 10.9 10.1
EBITDA $ 19.5 $ 23.5 $ 61.0 $ 76.3
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====
Adjusted EBITDA $ 24.6 $ 23.5 $ 72.2 $ 76.3
==== ==== ==== ==== ==== ===== ==== =====

Non-GAAP Measure:

Adjusted Profit contribution, Adjusted Selling, general and administrative expenses, Adjusted Operating income and Adjusted EBITDA exclude certain material items, which otherwise would impair the comparability of results between periods. These should not be considered as an alternative to net income, cash flows from operations or any other indicator of WWE’s performance or liquidity, determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

WWE
Supplemental Information – Schedule of Adjustments
(in millions, except per share data)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010 2011 2010
———— ———— ———— ————
Operating income $ 15.9 $ 20.3 $ 50.1 $ 67.8
Adjustments (Added back):
Film impairment charges 5.1 – 11.2 –
Infrastructure tax credit – – – (1.6)
Adjusted Operating income $ 21.0 $ 20.3 $ 61.3 $ 66.2
==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ======
Investment, interest and other expense, net (0.3) 1.4 0.1 0.1
Adjusted Income before taxes $ 20.7 $ 21.7 $ 61.4 $ 66.3
==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ======
Adjusted Provision for taxes (6.6) (7.4) (20.3) (21.9)
Adjusted Net income $ 14.1 $ 14.3 $ 41.1 $ 44.4
==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ======
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic 74,328 74,576 74,142 74,372
====== ====== ====== ======
Diluted 74,707 75,325 74,740 75,263
====== ====== ====== ======
Adjusted Earnings per share:
Basic $ 0.19 $ 0.19 $ 0.55 $ 0.60
==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ======
Diluted $ 0.19 $ 0.19 $ 0.55 $ 0.59
==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ====== ==== ======

Non-GAAP Measure:

Adjusted Operating income and Adjusted Net income exclude certain material items, which otherwise would impair the comparability of results between periods. These should not be considered as an alternative to net income, cash flows from operations or any other indicator of WWE’s performance or liquidity, determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

WWE
Supplemental Information – Free Cash Flow
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30, Sept. 30,
2011 2010 2011 2010
——- ——- ——- ——-
Net cash provided by operating activities $ 8,487 $ 2,959 $ 47,805 $ 27,908
Less cash used in capital expenditures:
Purchase of property and equipment (3,587) (2,444) (8,683) (9,070)
Proceeds from infrastructure incentives – – – 4,130
Purchase of other assets (99) – (1,783) (60)
Free Cash Flow $ 4,801 $ 515 $ 37,339 $ 22,908
==== ======= ==== ======= ==== ======= ==== =======

Non-GAAP Measure:

We define Free Cash Flow as net cash provided by operating activities less cash used for capital expenditures. Although it is not a recognized measure of liquidity under U.S. GAAP, Free Cash Flow provides useful information regarding the amount of cash our continuing business is generating after capital expenditures, available for reinvesting in the business and for payment of dividends.

Jersey Shore’s Ronnie Talks TNA, Preview For Tonight’s Impact

– Matches for tonight’s episode of TNA Impact Wrestling include:

  • Bobby Roode vs. James Storm for the TNA World Heavyweight Title.
  • Gail Kim and Madison Rayne vs. Tara & Miss Tessmacher for the Knockouts Titles
  • Austin Aries vs. Jesse Sorensen
  • Jeff Jarrett & Bully Ray vs. Jeff Hardy & Mr. Anderson

– MTV Jersey Shore’s Ronnie Ortiz-Magro tells The New York Post that wrestling was fun but he wants to continue acting and doing Jersey Shore, not pursue a career in the ring. Regarding his experience working with TNA, he said:

“It as really a great experience [working for TNA]. I grew up watching it and now I get to see it firsthand and experience it. You get too see that they really work hard.”

WWE Network News: New Show, Launch Date, Vince-Oprah

– WWE is conducting yet another poll on the company Facebook page asking fans to name a new show for the WWE Network. The names that are being considered for the new countdown show include:

* WWE Your Call
* WWE Countdown
* WWE Settle the Score
* WWE Hit List

– During Thursday morning’s investor conference call, WWE CEO Vince McMahon said that WWE will “soon be making a very big announcement” on WWE Network plans. cMahon said that WWE is on track to launch the network next year and feels confident they “finally turned the corner” to where they can make the “very big announcement.”

– When asked about when the WWE Network will launch, WWE said 6 months is a good estimate.

– They noted they have about 100,000 hours of footage in their tape library – with 30,000 hours digitized.  They are using those 30,000 hours as the first programming for the Network and will continue to digitize the rest of their content. They called their library of footage their most underutilized and unappreciated asset.  WWE owns 100% of the rights to their tape library, although they do license it to partners.- They were asked about WWE’s Network and if would have any partnerships.  Vince said it would be solely owned by WWE.

– Vince McMahon talked about why the network will be a success – and took a shot at Oprah Winfrey’s struggling network, which he called a failure. Vince said Oprah just put her name on the network without giving fans what they want, which is a mistake WWE won’t make.

– Also during the conference call, WWE said that their 4th quarter earnings report will reflect several big expenses related to the upcoming WWE Network. Upcoming WWE Network expenses include $4-6 million for staffing and $10-15 million for additional equipment and construction of a WWE Network Media Center.

Mick Foley Talks About His WWE Return

Mick Foley made his first WWE appearance since 2008 on Wednesday at the WWE live event from Dublin, Ireland.

Photo of Mick Foley’s WWE Return

Foley Mick Foley tweeted the following about his WWE return:

“There’s no place like home. There’s no place like home. There’s no place like home.”

“Thanks to all in Dublin for a great time tonight. I might be stopping by a few @WWE shows on my days off – Nov 5,8,9 on my UK comedy tour.”

Mick Foley Returns To WWE In Ireland (Videos)

Mick Foley made his first WWE appearance since 2008 on Wednesday at the WWE live event from Dublin, Ireland. Foley had a confrontation with Awesome Truth and later refereed a match that saw John Cena & John Morrison team up against Miz & R-Truth.

Check out these videos of Mick Foley’s WWE return on Wednesday night from Dublin:

Detials On Maryse’s WWE Release & Possible Playboy Plans

Former WWE diva Maryse was released from the company on October 28th, a move that was a surprise to many backstage.

As to whether the decision was hers or WWE, a WWE source indicates that it was mutual. Maryse was already looking beyond WWE at getting back into modeling and possibly even posing for Playboy, but it was WWE that made the call to release her. Because the company did not see any issues with her going to TNA (like Gail Kim), they did not have as much of an issue letting her go.

Prior to her getting injured (and undergoing surgery to correct an abdominal hernia), there were plans to start an angle where Hornswoggle had the hots for her.

She was medically cleared to return several weeks ago and she was telling people that she was about to be brought back to television.

She is still dating Miz and currently resides in Southern California.

(Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

Spike TV President Talks About Taking Impact On The Road

Spike TV President Kevin Kay recently commented on the possibility of taking Impact Wrestling on the road more often. He said:

“It was a mutual (Spike & TNA) decision. Dixie and Eric came in and pushed for it. I always wanted to do it. It’s great to have a home, but you don’t get the level of excitement as you do on the road. It adds a another level. We’re continuing discussions.”

“We haven’t seen a (ratings) bump, but you can’t judge ratings week-to-week, some weeks things happen like competition, even though TNA holds up well against sports. As we can afford to continue it or increase it, it’s a financial decision. It adds a lot of excitement and vibrancy to the show.”

Moving forward, it appears TNA will be taping Impact from Orlando the night after pay-per-views and then the tapings prior to the next PPV will be on the road. No new Impact tapings outside of Orlando have been announced at this time.

(Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)