SEScoops

Author: Staff

  • What Happened After RAW, Kharma’s Crying Segment, Trending

    – After Monday’s RAW came off the air, The Miz came out and called out Alex Riley. When Riley didn’t come out, John Cena then grabbed the mic and said to The Miz, “So, as much as Portland hates to hear you talk, how about saying those two words again, not I’m awesome, but I Quit.”

    Cena and Miz had a quick scuffle, which led to the Miz receiving an Attitude Adjustment from Cena and then a 619 from Rey Mysterio.

    Cena then locked in the STF on Miz and held the mic to Miz’s face .. Miz screamed “I Quit!” in pain about 5 times, which got a huge pop from the crowd.

    Cena and Mysterio celebrated in the ring to send the crowd home happy.

    – Monday’s RAW featured a strange in-ring segment where Kharma came down to a ring full of WWE divas. Instead of beating the divas down as we’ve seen in recent weeks, Kharma sat down in the middle oft the ring and began to cry, which got a negative reaction from the crowd. Several readers sent in word that the segment continued into the commercial break, with many fans booing and chanting “bullsh*t.”

    – Among the WWE-related topics that were trending on Twitter during RAW were Randy Savage, CM Punk, Bret Hart, Michael Cole, Kofi Kingston, Drew McIntyre and Evan Bourne.

  • Tonight’s WWE Tapings, Miz On Tough Enough Next Week & More

    – WWE will tape this week’s SmackDown and NXT shows tonight from the Spokane Arena in Spokane, Washington.

    Aside from the fallout from Sunday’s Over The Limit pay-per-view, WWE teased on RAW that Christian will face World Heavyweight champion Randy Orton on SmackDown.

    – Sheamus was overseas in Poland over the weekend doing promotional work for WWE. He is back in the states and is expected to be used at tonight’s SmackDown tapings.

    – As announced on RAW, former WWE champion The Miz will be making a special guest appearance on next week’s episode of Tough Enough. Here’s the USA Network’s official preview for the episode:

    “WWE superstar The Miz gives the contestants a taste of what life as a WWE Superstar means outside the ring. And, back in the gym, the competition heats up when the final three battle it out for the opportunity to compete in the Tough Enough finale. In the end, Stone Cold sends one more person home.”

    – On this day back in 1984, Vince McMahon Sr. passed away from pancreatic cancer. He was 69 years old.

  • WWE Legend Talks About The Heat Between Savage & McMahon

    One of  Macho Man Randy Savage’s greatest rivals from the 1980’s, George “The Animal” Steele, was on the Busted Open radio show on Monday and shed some light on the falling out between Savage and WWE Chairman Vince McMahon.

    There has been a ton of speculation over the years as to why Vince McMahon blackballed Savage from WWE – here’s what George Steel said about the situation:

    “That’s been said a lot of different ways, and there’s been a lot of different things said that are not true necessarily.”

    “I think that what happened with Randy, when his career was winding down with the WWF, Vince McMahon just loved Randy,” he continued. “After all everything Randy had done and he took him under his wing, and he wanted Randy after the ring was over with for him, he wanted him to be our spokesperson. He was traveling with Vince all the time. Randy was almost like a son, they were really tight. And then one day, we were at a TV meeting, and we got word that Randy, without calling Vince, had left and jumped to the WCW.”

    “I had never seen Vince McMahon broken before, he was crushed. It hurt him big time and I don’t think he ever got over that. I think that’s the real problem to be honest with you. I heard all this other stuff that I think is garbage when it comes to Randy and relationships with daughters and all that stuff… I don’t think that’s anywhere’s close to the truth.”

    Here’s a clip of Vince McMahon announcing Randy Savage’s departure from the WWE on Monday Night RAW back in 1994. Whatever transpired between Savage and McMahon behind the scenes, Vince gives him a classy sendoff:

  • Jimmy Hart Talks About Savage & Hogan’s Relationship

    Legendary wrestling manager Jimmy Hart appeared on the Busted Open satellite radio show on Monday and of course had a lot to say about the late “Macho Man” Randy Savage.

    Here’s a recap of what Jimmy Hart said about how the Poffo family is holding up following last week’s tragedy and the complicated relationship between Randy and Hulk Hogan:

    Busted Open satellite radio show with Jimmy Hart
    Hosts: Dave LaGreca and Doug Mortman
    Airs Mondays and Wednesdays on Sirius 92 and XM 207 from 2-4 ET
    Visit Facebook.com/bustedopen for more information

    Hart on how is the Poffo family holding up in the wake of Randy’s passing?

    “I think since three days since it happened, pretty darn good. Lanny’s always been great. I think what they decided to do too, because I got so many calls from everybody wondering where the funeral is going to be… I know you know it by now too, going to be cremated of course. His ashes are going to be spread on his property. Now, the reason I’m saying this, and its already out there anyhow… Lanny confirmed it too… where his dog Hercules passed away and was buried.

    “I think just a little private deal is going to be for Randy’s family, I don’t think he wanted something very very big and that’s kind of the way he was. When he did charities, he never went out there and told people about it or anything and I think donations are going to be sent in in his name are going to be in Tampa for one of the children’s foundations here. I think they’re doing pretty well for it just happening three or four days ago.”

    Hart on the relationship between Randy Savage and Hulk Hogan:

    “I don’t think it was as bad as sometimes people make it out to be because in the wrestling business, there’s always a little angle right around the corner where people can work together and make a ton of money. I think it ended up pretty well. I think when Hulk was going in to the hospital for one of his operations with his back, Randy happened to be at the same place. He stepped in to the room, said hello to Hulk and everything else.

    “At the end, everything was pretty well being put back together again. Sometimes people make more of it than what it really is sometimes but being on this end and hearing a little bit of the scuttlebutt here and there, it was almost like a big wrestling angle. Randy was great, there will only be one Macho Man ever ever, colorful and did some great things nobody ever really knew about because he was so private.”

  • VIDEO: WWE’s Emotional Tribute To Randy Savage From RAW

    On Monday’s RAW, WWE paid tribute to one of the most original, charismatic, legendary performers of all time, “Macho Man” Randy Savage.

    Watching this footage brings back a ton of memories, it really is heartbreaking that such a colorful, larger than life figure can be taken from us like this. No matter what led to the falling out between Randy Savage and Vince McMahon all those years ago, it’s a real shame he never got the WWE homecoming that he so rightfully deserved.

    There will never be another Macho Man .. Rest in peace, Randy.

  • Bischoff & Hervey Working With CeeLo Green On New TV Show

    Eric Bischoff & Jason Hervey’s production company will be teaming up with Grammy Award winner CeeLo Green for a new show on Fuse TV called “Talking To Strangers.” Here’s the official press release announcing the show:

    NEW YORK–(EON: Enhanced Online News)–Fuse, the national music television network of The Madison Square Garden Company, today announced that Grammy Award winner CeeLo Green is back on Fuse this summer with his own show, “CeeLo Green * Talking To Strangers.” Premiering June 22nd, the interview and performance show will kick off a summer filled with exciting music programming that viewers can only find on Fuse.

    “I’m excited for the opportunity to return to Fuse to host my show ‘Talking To Strangers’ and have a chance to take fans on a musical journey with some of the artists that I listen to and admire,” said CeeLo Green.

    “CeeLo Green * Talking To Strangers” will be full of surprises that one could only expect from CeeLo, as he brings his own personal style and taste to each episode. The show will feature CeeLo talking with fellow artists about music, their careers, life and more. Viewers will also be treated to performances from each artist as well as special performances from CeeLo.

    The show title was inspired by the “Talking To Strangers” track off of CeeLo’s Stray Bullets mixtape.

    CeeLo is coming back to Fuse after a triumphant year of accolades and chart topping success. His first single, “F**K You,” off his latest album, The Lady Killer, became a viral sensation and garnered him a Grammy Award for “Best Urban/Alternative Performance” as well as critical acclaim. Today he is not only a singer, songwriter, producer and TV host, but also a cultural phenomenon, who continues to push the creative envelope.

    “CeeLo has had an unbelievable year and is one of the biggest and most sought-after artists in the world right now,” said Brad Schwartz, svp of programming and operations, Fuse. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to have him bring his passion, his eccentricities, his cool and all of his fans to Fuse to watch him host his own music show.”

    Grammy Award winner CeeLo Green got his start with Goodie Mob, the Southern-rap pioneers. After finding success with hits such as “Soul Food” and “Dirty South,” CeeLo went on to pursue a solo career. In 2006, he joined forces with Danger Mouse to form Gnarls Barkley whose debut single “Crazy,” went on to top the charts in download sales. Today, CeeLo is enjoying the phenomenal success of his latest album The Lady Killer, which was released in 2010 on Elektra Records. The album’s first single, “F**k You” became an instant viral hit and the second single “Bright Lights Bigger City,” is currently climbing the charts. Recently, CeeLo has also taken on the role of coach on NBC’s “The Voice” and will be on tour with Rihanna this summer.

    For more information, please visit fuse.tv.

    “CeeLo Green * Talking To Strangers” is executive produced by Bischoff/Hervey Entertainment.

  • Ring Of Honor Purchased By Sinclair Broadcast Group

    Sinclair Broadcasting issued the following press release:

    Sinclair Acquires “Ring of Honor” Wrestling Franchise

    BALTIMORE: Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SBGI), the “Company” or “Sinclair,” announced today that it has acquired the “Ring of Honor” wrestling (ROH) franchise. Ring of Honor is the third largest wrestling promotion in the country.

    “We are very excited about this acquisition,” commented Steve Marks, COO of Sinclair’s Television Group. “Television and professional wrestling have a long history of successful partnerships and driving viewership. Unfortunately, the broadcast networks have not protected that relationship, allowing professional wrestling to migrate to cable network distribution. We believe that the powerful promotional platform that our TV stations provide, coupled with our 22% coverage of the U.S. TV households, will allow ROH to achieve name brand recognition and grow its share of the wrestling market. When you consider the make-up of our station mix and the number of CW, MYTV and FOX affiliates we operate, this is a perfect fit for our viewer demographics.”

    Mr. Marks continued, “We believe that ROH will provide us with multiple revenue opportunities. In addition to the advertising component, there are product sponsorships, Internet pay-per-view, live wrestling tour events, and sales of DVDs and other merchandise. Longer-term, we can envision syndicating ROH wrestling to broadcasters in markets where Sinclair does not have a presence and even internationally. We believe there are opportunities to broadcast ROH wrestling on our secondary tier channels or in a mobile environment. The acquisition also means less syndicated product that we will be required to purchase, and since we own the franchise, we control how many times, which dayparts and on which affiliates we want to air the matches without having the limitation on the number of runs or license fee costs.”

    “We have been waiting and working for this opportunity for quite some time,” commented Cary Silkin, owner of ROH. “Of our 9 years in business, there has been no better roster of wrestlers than this one to expose the ROH product to the masses. With Sinclair’s resources and many avenues of distribution, we believe many new fans will be as captivated as those who have followed Ring of Honor over the years.”

    This September, Ring of Honor will debut on Sinclair’s network of broadcast television stations, and with it, will become the only wrestling promotion in the United States with a major, multi-market presence on broadcast TV. “But if you don’t live in a market with a Sinclair station, fear not,” says Mr. Silkin. “Through our website, we will be able to make the TV show available to anyone in the world with internet access.”

    ROH will be headed by Joe Koff, Chief Operating Officer of Ring of Honor. Mr. Koff, who has been with Sinclair since 2003 and most recently served as Director of Sales, has a long established career in television broadcasting sales and management, as well as managing wrestling content. Mr. Koff was responsible for personally creating, producing, marketing, syndicating, and selling barter inventory in what was to become “The Battle of the Belts I, II, III.” “Battle of the Belts,” which ran three consecutive seasons from 1985-1987, was considered breakthrough programming in its time. Mr. Koff syndicated the first ever, live, prime-time wrestling event and negotiated the international rights for the initial programming.

    While the Ring of Honor acquisition includes primarily intellectual property and equipment, several existing ROH employees will be hired including longtime pro wrestling personality and matchmaker, Jim Cornette, who will serve as VP of Creative. Veteran promoter, Gary Juster, will join as VP of Operations, and Cary Silkin will remain in an advisory role. Ring of Honor features such stars as ROH World Champion, Eddie Edwards; World Tag Team Champions, Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin; and top contenders Davey Richards and the Kings of Wrestling. In addition, to Ring of Honor’s “best-in-ring” wrestling talent, ROH fans can expect to see other familiar faces such as longtime wrestling broadcaster Kevin Kelly, already the voice of ROH internet pay-per-views, who will assume the TV play-by-play chair this fall, ring announcer Bobby Cruise and senior referee Todd Sinclair.

    A major press conference, open to the wrestling press and mainstream media alike, is being planned for in Baltimore, Maryland on Friday, June 24th. This event will feature a number of the ROH staff and wrestlers. The press event will kick off a weekend which includes ROH’s next internet pay-per-view event, “Best in the World 2011,” live from the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on Sunday, June 26th at 4PM EDT. In addition to all the top stars on the ROH roster, this event will feature the return of some favorite stars from Ring of Honor’s past, and can be ordered through Gofightlive.tv.

    About Ring of Honor:

    Ring of Honor wrestling, synonymous with best-in-ring action in the sport, organized in 2001 and was most recently syndicated on the cable network, HDNET. ROH is known for its athleticism and professional wrestling style while providing fans an entertaining, hard hitting performance.

    Ring of Honor produces weekly, original 1-hour television wrestling match programs and stages more than two dozen live events in various cities per year. The major live events are also broadcast worldwide via internet pay-per-views. DVDs, T-Shirts and other ROH merchandise are available for sale at each tour venue and through their Internet site, www.rohwrestling.com. Ring of Honor also has a wrestling school to teach existing and new wrestlers of any level.

    About Sinclair:

    Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., one of the largest and most diversified television broadcasting companies, owns and operates, programs or provides sales services to 58 television stations in 35 markets. Sinclair’s television group reaches approximately 22% of U.S. television households and is affiliated with all major networks. Sinclair owns equity interests in various non-broadcast related companies. The Company regularly uses its website as a key source of Company information and can be accessed at www.sbgi.net.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    The matters discussed in this news release, include forward-looking statements regarding, among other things, future operating results. When used in this news release, the words “outlook,” “intends to,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “achieves,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results in the future could differ materially and adversely from those described in the forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including and in addition to the assumptions identified in this release, but not limited to, the impact of changes in national and regional economies, the volatility in the U.S. and global economies and financial credit markets, successful execution of outsourcing agreements, pricing and demand fluctuations in local and national advertising, volatility in programming costs, the market acceptance of new programming, the CW Television Network and MyNetworkTV programming, our news share strategy, our local sales initiatives, the execution of retransmission consent agreements, our ability to identify and consummate investments in attractive non-television assets and to achieve anticipated returns on those investments once consummated, and any other risk factors set forth in the Company’s most recent reports on Form 10-Q, Form 10-K and Form 8-K, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. There can be no assurances that the assumptions and other factors referred to in this release will occur. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements except as required by law.

  • Details On Who John Cena’s Next Feud Will Be

    According to a reliable WWE source, Nexus leader CM Punk is currently slated to be the next challenger to John Cena’s WWE Championship after Cena’s feud with The Miz is over.

    Cena is said to be a big fan of CM Punk and went to WWE Chairman Vince McMahon asking to work with Punk.

    We reported a few weeks ago that CM Punk is said to be unhappy behind the scenes in WWE with his lack of push and is strongly considering leaving WWE when his WWE contract expires at the end of the summer.

    WWE is still hoping to re-sign Punk and a main event feud with John Cena (as well as another possible title run) could be used as a way to show Punk that he is a highly valued member of the WWE roster.

    Even if we do see a program between John Cena and CM Punk, it’s no guarantee that Punk will stick around. Aside from being unhappy with how his character has been booked in recent months, Punk is said to be burned out from the hectic WWE road schedule and might have already made up his mind to take at least a few months off.

  • WWE Issues Statement Regarding Obama On PPV Poster

    As previously reported, the official pay-per-view poster has been released for WWE’s upcoming Capitol Punishment event on June 19th – and it features a cartoon of President Obama standing between John Cena and Rey Mysterio.

    WWE issued the following statement regarding its use of President Obama’s image to promote Capitol Punishment:

    About Capitol Punishment artwork

    The cartoonist artwork portraying President Obama as a referee is intended to publicize WWE’s (World Wrestling Entertainment) pay-per-view event known as Capitol Punishment, which emanates from our Nation’s Capital on Sunday, June 19.

    With President Obama depicted in a referee shirt, WWE likely issued the statement to clarify that he will not actually be appearing at the event.

    VIEW HERE: Capitol Punishment PPV Poster With President Obama

  • VIDEO: Z! True Long Island Story (Episode 14)

    Episode 14 of Zack Ryder’s YouTube series “Z! True Long Island Story” is online – check it out:

  • VIDEO: Ultimate Warrior Pays Tribute To Randy Savage

    Former WWE Champion The Ultimate Warrior posted this video tribute to the late Randy Savage.

    Warrior had arguably his best match ever with Randy Savage at WrestleMania 7 back in 1991 and the two remained good friends in recent years.

  • WWE Over The Limit PPV Results: May 22, 2011

    – The 2011 WWE Over the Limit pay-per-view opens up with a “In Memory Of” graphic for Randy Savage before we go to the standard WWE opening video.

    – We get a promo video for tonight’s top matches at Over the Limit including John Cena vs. The Miz and Randy Orton vs. Christian.

    – We go to the ring and out comes R-Truth with no music. Truth goes to the ring and says it’s all about parking lots. He talks about arriving today and not having a parking spot. Truth says that meant he had to park with the fans. He says he deserves a whole lot better than to be treated like them. Truth says he had to walk in the rain. Truth calls the people of Seattle stinkin’ hippies. Truth says it’s a conspiracy. Truth says he’s danced for the fans and it got him nowhere. He’s not playing games anymore, he says. Truth says Rey Mysterio plays games. Truth goes on until Rey Mysterio’s music hits.

    R-Truth vs. Rey Mysterio

    There are two Ford Mustangs sitting on the stage as a part of the set. Rey Mysterio’s music hits and out he comes to a pop.

    The match starts and they go at it, making their way out to the floor early on. Rey takes Truth from the apron to the floor. Rey brings it back in the ring and goes up top but Truth knocks him down. Rey gets wrapped up in the corner and Truth unloads with kicks. Truth beats Rey into the next corner and works him over. Truth charges but Rey trips him face-first into the corner. Truth runs Rey’s head into the ring post and he falls out to the floor.

    Truth brings it back in the ring and covers Rey for a 2 count. Truth works Rey over on the mat now. Rey fights to his feet and out of the hold. Rey runs the ropes and gets hit by a knee from Truth. Truth suplexes Rey and drops him on his face for another 2 count. Truth with a clutch in the corner now and more stomps for Rey. Truth wraps Rey’s body around the ring post now and stretches it. Truth brings it back in the ring again but only gets 2. They go back up top and Rey bulldogs Truth back into the ring. 2 count for Mysterio.

    Back and forth action until Rey hits a crossbody from the second rope for a 2 count. Rey drops Truth again for another 2 count. Truth catches Rey in the corner but Rey fights to the apron. Rey headbutts Truth and hits a plancha from the top rope. They run the ropes and Truth hits a twisted elbow for a 2 count. Truth misses the axe kick and Rey rolls him up for 1. Rey counters another move and goes for 619 but Truth slides out of the ring. Rey kicks Truth to the floor and goes to the apron. Truth pulls Rey down and the apron gets hung between his legs. Truth clotheslines Rey and brings him back in the ring. Truth drops Rey on his face for the pin and the win.

    Winner: R-Truth

    – After the match, no music plays for Truth and the crowd starts booing him. Truth asks for a bottle of water and walks around the ring. Rey gets up and Truth smacks him in the head with the water before posing on the second rope and leaving the ring. We go to replays.

    – We go backstage with Todd Grisham, The Miz and Alex Riley talking about the WWE Title Match tonight. Miz says he will prove all the naysayers wrong again tonight. Miz says he has never quit at anything in his entire life. He says he has a gameplan for tonight and knows what it takes to win.

    – We go ringside to the announcers. Michael Cole talks trash to Jerry Lawler about their match tonight. They talk about tonight’s Intercontinental Title match and we go to three weeks ago when Ezekiel Jackson was kicked out of The Corre and more highlights from their feud.

    WWE Intercontinental Title Match: Ezekiel Jackson vs. Wade Barrett

    We go to the ring and out comes the WWE Intercontinental Champion Wade Barrett by himself. Out next comes the challenger Ezekiel Jackson.

    The bell rings and they test each other. They finally go at it and Barrett looks to take control early on until Jackson throws him over the top rope and to the floor. Barrett runs back in the ring and Zeke chases him. Barrett tries a big boot when Zeke comes back in but Zeke catches it and goes to work on Barrett. Zeke with big knees and right hands in the corner now. Zeke continues the assault and Barrett gets the ref’s attention in the corner. Out of nowhere Barrett gets up and decks Zeke. Barrett rams Zeke into the ringpost from the corner.

    Barrett with another shot into the ringpost and a 2 count. Barrett mounts Zeke with right hands. Barrett goes to the second rope and hits an elbow drop for another pin attempt. Barrett takes it tot he mat with a headlock. Zeke fights back but Barrett hits him with headbutts. Barrett goes for Wasteland but Zeke slides out and fights back. Barrett with a boot to the gut. Barrett goes for the gutwrench powerbomb and nails it for a 2 count.

    Zeke knocks Barrett out of the ring with a right hand. Barrett comes back to the apron but Zeke runs him into the ring post. Zeke brings Barrett back in and runs him over with big shoulder blocks. Zeke with a huge splash in the corner and a scoop slam. And another scoop slam, and yet another. Barrett hits one more big scoop slam on Barrett, wait, there’s another. Zeke scoops Barrett onto his shoulders nect but Justin Gabriel rushes in and kicks Zeke in the stomach.

    Winner by DQ: Ezekiel Jackson

    – Zeke fights off Gabriel but Heath Slater rushes the ring. He fights him off but The Corre gangs up on Zeke and all three start stomping away. Barrett hits a big running boot while Slater and Gabriel hold Zeke. Zeke is announced as the winner by DQ but The Corre raises Barrett’s arm as we go to replays.

    – We go backstage with Nexus. My feed cut out but comes back on and we see Michael McGillicutty and David Otunga down on the floor hurt. Mason Ryan and CM Punk are having a bit of an argument about their tag team title match tonight. Punk gets Mason to walk off with him for the match but walks back in to make a smart remark to Otunga and McGillicutty.

    Sin Cara vs. Chavo Guerrero

    We go to the ring and out first comes Sin Cara to a decent reaction. Chavo Guerrero is out next.

    The bell rings and they lock up. Chavo with a headlock early on. They go back and forth on the mat. Chavo takes Cara down with a wristlock and pushes his face into the mat. Cara fights out of the hold and hits a big hip toss. More back and forth with Cara taking Guerrero down with a head scissors. Cara flips into the ropes and knocks Chavo to the floor from the apron. Cara runs the ropes and leaps over the top, landing on Chavo on the floor. Cara superkicks Chavo back. He ends up on the apron and uses another head scissors takedown on the floor before bringing it back in the ring.

    Chavo knocks Cara down as he re-enters the ring and goes to work on him in the corner. Cara fights back and Chavo ends up down in the corner now. Cara leaps but Chavo moves and he lands on the second rope. Cara goes to the top and hits a moonsault on Chavo for a 2 count. Chavo backs down in the corner again but Cara superkicks him. Chavo turns it around in the corner and hits a big running knee. Chavo with stomps on Cara now. Chavo gets hit with a dropkick and a botched arm drag takedown. More back and forth action. Chavo works on Cara’s leg now.

    Chavo goes to the top but Cara kicks him down to the floor outside the ring. Cara runs across the ring to the top and leaps off onto Chavo and the floor with a crossbody. Cara brings it back in the ring and hits a springboard hurricanrana. Cara gets pumped up now and hits Chavo with punches and kicks. Cara springboards from the ropes and hits a back elbow into Chavo. Arm drag by Cara and a kick to the head from the apron. Cara goes to the top and hits another crossbody for a 2 count.

    Chavo fights back and goes for a powerbomb but Cara hangs onto his back. Cara escapes with an arm drag. Chavo goes for a back drop but Cara slides out. Cara with another botched head scissors takedown and the pin out of nowhere for the win.

    Winner: Sin Cara

    – WWE airs their new anti-bullying video.

    – We go backstage with Todd Grisham, Randy Orton and Christian. Grisham says they’ve been respectful towards each other going into tonight. Christian says the World Title loss has to eat at him. Christian says he isn’t mad at anybody. He says Randy didn’t do anything he wouldn’t have done himself. Christian is sure he will win the belt back tonight. Christian says Orton knows this deep down. Orton says Christian is one hell of a competitor but he beat him once and if he loses again… Christian says he won’t lose again. Orton says when he fights a feel-good story, there is no happily ever after.

    – We go to the ring and out comes Alberto Del Rio as Ricardo Rodriguez makes the introduction. Del Rio is driving a new Bentley tonight. Del Rio introduces himself. Del Rio wants to talk about destiny. He says the immigration problem in this part of the country is disgusting. Del Rio says thousands of illegal Canadians are crossing the border to America. The crowd boo’s him. Del Rio says he’s not upset that he isn’t in the WWE Title match tonight because he knows he can make either Cena or Miz say “I Quit” with the armbreaker. He says it’s only a matter of time before he’s WWE Champion and there’s nothing you can do because destiny can’t be stopped. Big Show and Kane’s music hit and out come the WWE Tag Team Champions to the ring. Kane tells Del Rio that he’s already angry since the rapture didn’t come yesterday but if Del Rio don’t leave the ring, his destiny is to wind up just like McGillicutty and Otunga did in the back earlier. Show says that’s a punch in the face. They back Del Rio out of the ring and here we go.

    WWE Tag Team Title Match: CM Punk & Mason Ryan vs. Big Show and Kane

    Out next come CM Punk and Mason Ryan. The bell ring and it’s Punk starting off with Kane. Punk immediately tags in Ryan. They lock up and Ryan shoves Kane to the mat. Kane with a headlock but Ryan pushes out and drops him with a shoulder. Kane kicks Ryan in the gut and hits two big right hands. They run the ropes and Ryan catches Kane with a huge slam. Ryan with a big clothesline in the corner and a tag to Punk. Punk runs in but Kane drops him with a right hand and tags in Show.

    Show drops Punk with a huge chop and then walks over top of him. Another chop in the corner. Show goes for another but Punk turns his back so Show chops his back. Show charges in the corner and Punk dropkicks his leg out. Ryan is tagged back in. He drops Show and goes to work on him with kicks and an elbow. Punk is tagged again and comes in for a 2 count. Punk goes for a headlock but Show lifts him up and applies a big bear hug. Show tags in Kane and holds Punk while Kane hits a big boot. Kane with a big splash in the corner and another. Kane hits the big sideslam for a 2 count.

    Kane goes to the top for a big clothesline and comes down. He goes for a chokeslam. Ryan distracts the referee, allowing Punk to take back control. Kane ends up on the floor and gets decked by Punk, who is on longer the legal man. Ryan comes to the floor and rams Kane back into the apron. Ryan brings it back in the ring for a 2 count. Ryan works over Kane and tags back in Punk for some double teaming in the corner. Punk hits the running knee. He goes for the bulldog but Kane pushes him off. Punk dropkicks Kane’s knee and gets a 2 count. Ryan is tagged in for some more double teaming, working on Kane’s leg. Ryan scoops Kane on his shoulder and rams him back in the corner and then slams him on the mat. 2 count for Ryan. Ryan goes from a headlock to a bear hug. They go at it with shots in the middle of the ring now but Ryan scoops Kane up again. Kane pushes back out and hits a big suplex.

    Punk is tagged in and he stops Kane from tagging. Punk goes to work on Kane with kicks now. Punk goes to the top rope but takes too long coming down. Kane takes control for a minute and tags in Show as Ryan comes in. Show runs over Ryan and takes him down with a big shoulder. Show grabs Ryan for a chokeslam. Punk comes off the top and gets grabbed by the throat also. They break the hold but Show clotheslines them. Kane comes in and clotheslines Punk to the floor. Kane and Show chokeslam Mason at the same time and Show covers for the win.

    Winners: Kane and Big Show

    – We go to ringside and the announcers hype next month’s Capitol Punishment pay-per-view. They air a mock video of President Obama at a news conference. Reporters ask Obama different questions about WWE and they’ve put in clips of Obama answering other questions from news conferences.

    WWE Divas Title Match: Kelly Kelly vs. Brie Bella

    We go to the ring and out first comes WWE Divas Champion Brie Bella with her sister Nikki Bella. Out next comes the challenger Kelly Kelly. The bell rings and Brie strikes first. They go to the corner and Kelly wraps Brie over the ropes in a spider like move. Kelly drops Brie on her face on the apron. Kelly goes to the top and hits a crossbody from the top for a 2 count.

    Kelly hits a stinkface but ends up down on the floor, allowing Nikki to get a cheap shot in. Brie stomps on Kelly’s hand as she tries to get back in the ring. Brie brings Kelly up on the apron and drops her over the ropes. Brie drags Kelly in the ring for a 2 count. Brie works on Kelly’s arm and continues the offense. Brie slams Kelly back to the mat and goes back to work on her arm.

    Kelly finally makes a comeback and hits a Thesz Press. Kelly unloads on Brie and slams her face into the mat repeatedly. Kelly with a 2 count. They go at it and the Twins pull the switch out of nowhere. Nikki comes in, lays Kelly out and covers her for the win.

    Winner: Brie Bella

    – After the match, The Bellas make their way up the ramp as Cole exits his cube to go get ready for the Kiss My Foot match.

    – We get a promo video for tonight’s World Heavyweight Title match.

    World Heavyweight Title Match: Christian vs. Randy Orton

    We go to the ring and out first comes Christian. Out next is the World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton to a nice reaction. We get formal introductions before the bell.

    They start the match and the crowd starts chanting. They lock up and Christian rolls Orton up for a 1 count. They lock up again and Orton applies a headlock. Orton takes Christian down with a shoulder and gets a 2 count. Another headlock by Orton now. Orton runs the ropes but Christian takes him down with a forearm. Christian with a dropkick from the second rope for a 2 count. Christian smacks Orton and runs the ropes. Orton drops him with a back elbow. Christian dumps Orton over the top rope and to the floor. Christian runs the ropes and hits a huge dropkick, knocking Orton back into the barrier.

    Christian works Orton over on the floor and brings it back in the ring. Dueling chants for Orton and Christian from the crowd. Christian scoop slams Orton and applies a headlock. Orton fights out and ducks a clothesline. Christian connects with a dropkick for a 2 count. Christian takes Orton down and applies a chinlock from behind. Orton comes back with a standing dropkick. Christian slaps Orton coming out of the corner and goes up top. Orton knocks Christian down on the top and they trade right hands. Orton gets the upperhand and climbs up. Orton superplexes Christian back into the ring and gets a 2 count.

    Orton goes back to work. Christian counters an uppercut with a backslide for a 2 count. Orton comes back with right hands and a kick to the face. Orton wth two clotheslines. Christian catches him with a big spinebuster for another 2 count. They both get up and trade big right hands in the middle of the ring. Christian with slaps and a big flying forearm. Christian with an inverted DDT for a 2 count. Christian goes to the top rope and comes down but Orton catches his legs for a 2 count. They trade pin attempts. Back to their feet until Orton beats Christian down. Orton goes for the Angle slam but Christian counters. Christian goes to the floor for the right hand but Orton blocks it. Orton goes for the second-rope DDT but it’s countered also. Christian knocks Orton back and goes up top. Christian hits a big flying headbutt on Orton for a 2 count.

    Orton gets up first and hits an uppercut and a backbreaker for another 2 count. Orton starts stomping on Christian and kicks him in the ribs. Orton with a big knee drop and another 2 count. Christian goes for the backslide but Orton tries for an RKO. Both countered. Orton applies a backwards Boston crab, a very different looking move, as Christian tries to make it to the ropes. Christian finally makes it and the hold is broken. They go back and forth in the corner. Christian dodges an RKO. Christian with a roll-up from the second rope for a close 2 count. They get up and Christian with a right hand. They counter each other on the ropes until Orton brings Christian in with the second rope DDT for a 2 count. Orton hits the mat and gets ready.

    Orton goes for an RKO but Christian pushes him off. Christian starts calling for a spear and gets ready for it in the corner. Orton gets up and catches Christian, blocking the spear with a powerslam. 2 count by Orton. Orton stands over Christian now and then backs up for a punt kick. Orton charges with the punt but stops in mid-stride. Orton backs up for it again but Christian spears him. Christian covers Orton for a close 2 count. Christian is very frustrated now. Christian motions for the Killswitch but Orton blocks it and eventually hits the RKO for the win.

    Winner: Randy Orton

    – After the match, Orton poses as we go to replays. Orton tries to help Christian up but Christian pushes him off and goes to leave the ring. Christian comes back in and gets in Orton’s face. Christian shakes Orton’s hand and they embrace to a mixed reaction from the crowd.

    – We get a video with recent highlights in the feud between Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler.

    Kiss My Foot Match: Michael Cole vs. Jerry Lawler

    The only way to win this one is by pinfall or submission. The loser must kiss the winners feet. We go to the ring and out first comes Jerry Lawler. Out next comes Michael Cole but he’s limping and dressed in a suit. Cole takes the mic and has a prepared statement. Cole says he can’t compete tonight because he’s medically prohibited. Cole asks for Lawler’s understanding and compassion, as well as the fans. Cole says his doctor won’t let him compete because his athlete’s foot has became infected, making it unsafe for Cole and Lawler. Cole hands the ref his doctor’s note and the ref rips it up, calling for the bell.

    Lawler unloads on Cole with right hands and beats him around the ring. Lawler hits a dropkick and Cole ends up on the floor. Lawler comes out after him but Cole takes a cheap shot and throws Lawler into the steps. Cole throws Lawler into the barrier and begins to take his shoe and sock off. Cole’s foot is brown and horrible looking. Cole waves it in Lawler’s face. Lawler grabs Cole’s leg and punches him. Lawler throws Cole through his Colemine and down it goes.

    Lawler brings it back in the ring and goes to the second rope. Lawler drops a big fist on Cole’s face and covers him for the win.

    Winner: Jerry Lawler

    – After the match, Lawler starts taking his boot off but stops and thinks for a second. Lawler motions to the back and out comes Eve Torres. Eve climbs to the top turnbuckle and hits a moonsault on Cole. Lawler takes his boot off now and the crowd chants for him. Lawler motions to the back again and out comes Jim Ross to a big pop. JR pulls out a bottle of BBQ sauce and pours it all over Cole’s face. Cole escapes from the ring and goes to leave. Lawler wants him to come back and kiss his foot but Cole says no way. Cole takes a mic at the top of the ramp and says it may look like he lost tonight, but he didn’t. Cole says he isn’t a loser. He calls Lawler, JR and Eve losers. Cole says it doesn’t matter what Lawler did, he never did and never will kiss his foot. Bret Hart’s music hits and he comes out. Bret backs Cole down the ramp and towards the ring. Bret tosses Cole back into the ring and follows him in. Bret locks the Sharpshooter on Cole to a big pop from the crowd. As Cole is locked in, Lawler puts his foot in Cole’s mouth. Lawler’s music hits as Cole gags on the mat, still covered in BBQ sauce with his clothes torn. We go to replays. Bret, Lawler and Eve wave to the fans as Bret’s music hits next. JR goes to commentary as Bret shakes hands with fans at ringside. Cole is now crying as he stumbles out of the ring.

    – We get a promo video for tonight’s WWE Title match.

    I Quit Match for the WWE Title: The Miz vs. John Cena

    We go to the ring and out first comes The Miz with Alex Riley right behind him. John Cena’s music is up next and out comes the WWE Champion to a nice reaction from the crowd. We get formal introductions from Justin Roberts and here we go.

    The bell rings and Miz takes the mic. He mentions there are no rules in an I Quit Match except one must say they quit. Miz says he can use weapons on Cena but Riley can also. Riley enters the ring and stands beside Miz, ready to go. Miz lets Cena have the chance to go ahead and quit now. Cena says hell no. Miz charges and Cena ducks. Cena unloads on Miz and Riley, going back and forth between the two. Cena with a big bulldog on Miz and a gutwrench. Cena locks on the STF but Riley breaks it up. Riley goes to work on Cena now.

    Miz and Riley start working Cena over now. Riley charges but Cena dumps him to the floor. Cena unloads on Miz with shoulders and a back drop. Cena hits the Five Knuckle Shuffle on Miz and goes for the Attitude Adjustment but Miz slides out and hits a neckbreaker. Miz goes for the Skull Crushing Finale but Cena counters with an Attitude Adjustment. Riley comes in and decks Cena with the briefcase. Riley starts smacking Cena with the case now.

    Riley and Miz continue the double team now. They hit him with a double powerbomb from the top. The ref checks on Cena but he’s not ready to quit. They throw Cena out to the floor. More double teaming on the floor with Cena being rammed hard back into the barrier. He’s still not ready to quit.

    They continue to beat Cena on the floor but he won’t quit. Riley and Miz take apart the announcer’s table and beat him down with the monitors. Cena still won’t quit. He finally fights back but Miz throws him into the steel steps. Miz drops Cena’s face onto the steel steps with a DDT. Miz puts the mic in Cena’s face this time but he still won’t quit. Riley lifts the steel steps up. Miz tells Cena that Riley is going to slam them into his ribs if he doesn’t quit. Cena tells him to go to hell. Riley slams the steps into Cena’s side. The ref checks on Cena again but he won’t quit. Riley holds Cena’s arms from the ring while he’s on the floor. Miz grabs a kendo stick. He tells Cena to go ahead and quit. Cena tells him he hits like a girl. Miz cracks Cena in the ribs repeatedly with the kendo stick. Cena still won’t quit.

    Miz unloads on Cena’s ribs with the kendo stick again and Cena falls to the floor. Still no quitting from Cena. Another kendo shot from Miz. They go back to double teaming Cena now, beating him up the ramp and towards the cars on stage. Miz suplexes Cena onto the stage. The ref checks on Cena but he won’t quit. Miz hits Cena with a running kick to the face and Cena rolls off the stage and onto the concrete floor. Cena still won’t say it. Riley holds Cena while Miz gets a belt from a production worker. Miz threatens to whip Cena with the strap unless he quits. Cena tells him he has a strap but no nuts. Miz whips Cena in the back repeatedly with the strap. Cena still won’t quit. Miz whips Cena several more times but Cena won’t give up. Miz tells Riley go to get him a chair from the ring. Miz takes Cena back to the ramp. Cena drops him with a right hand and slams Riley into the ringpost. Miz comes up and decks Cena and then hits him with the steel chair.

    Miz brings Cena and the chair in the ring. Cena gets up and fights Miz off. Riley comes in but Cena throws him and he hits the ref. The referee goes down. Miz comes back from behind on Cena and lays him out with a DDT. Miz props the chair up in the ropes and lays Cena’s face into it with a Skull Crushing Finale. Cena still won’t quit. Miz goes to some Cena fans at ringside and asks him if he wants to Cena go through more pain. Miz tells the kid to tell Cena to quit. The kid says never, not any day. Miz tells the kid to look what he’s done to Cena and kicks him. Miz yells at the kid some more now and says he won’t stop until Cena quits. Miz tells the kid to tell Cena to quit again. Another kid tells Miz to quit first. Miz decks Cena in the head with the mic. Miz threatens to beat Cena repeatedly with a chair until he quits. Miz tells him he can’t win this match. Cena tells Miz the kids are smarter than him. As Cena is laying halfway through the barrier, Miz cracks him in the head with a chairshot. Riley holds the mic to Cena’s mouth and says “I quit.” This is supposed to be Cena saying it but it sounded like Riley. The bell rings and the referee goes for the belt at ringside. The referee sees a cell phone at ringside and plays audio on it. The referee says no to the decision and comes back in the ring to argue with Miz and Riley. He plays the audio from Riley’s phone into the mic and exposes their trick. The referee restarts the match.

    Miz holds Cena while Riley charges with the belt. Cena ducks and lays Riley through the announcer table with an Attitude Adjustment. Cena looks at Miz and starts smiling. Cena takes off his own belt and starts whipping Miz over and over with it. Miz runs up the ramp but Cena beats him with the strap the whole way. Miz tries to go backstage but Cena pulls him back. Cena locks on the STF on the stage and Miz says “I Quit” to end the match.

    Winner: John Cena

    – After the match, we get replays. Cena poses with the WWE Title on the stage as they show more replays. Over the Limit goes off the air with Cena saluting the crowd and raising the WWE Title.

  • Jim Ross Blogs About Randy Savage’s Life

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross wrote a really nice article over at JRsBarBQ.com about the life and career of the legendary “Macho Man” Randy Savage. Here are some of the highlights of what JR said about Savage:

    “‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage was a legit star in the world of pro wrestling and one of the most famous wrestlers of any era.”

    “In 1985 Savage roared into the WWE and his star was hung prominently for the entire world to see and did it ever shine brightly!”

    “Randy Savage is arguably one of the top 2-3 wrestlers that helped establish the WWE as the dominate promotion of its kind in the world. Savage deserves to be mentioned in the same sentence as Andre, Hulk, Piper, etc.”

    “Unpredictability and breaking molds is a marketable trait and without question ‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage was one of the most marketable, unforgettable persona’s to ever grace the squared circle.”

    “In my over four decades in the business, I have never encountered anyone who I perceived was as intense, 24X7, as ‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage. He was a gifted athlete,  he played minor league baseball a handful of years, and brought artful athleticism and raw reality to his profession.”

    “One never had to guess where they stood with Savage and he never had any issues expressing himself. He was, seemingly, always on edge or, perhaps more specifically, on point. Randy carried himself as one not to be trifled with and as a man who had great passion for his profession and unmatched intensity.”

    “Fans of the genre of pro wrestling lost one of the most famous and skilled performers of all time this morning in Tampa when the former WWE Champion apparently had a heart attack while driving his vehicle with his wife of one year who was the sole passenger. “

  • New Details On The Death Of Macho Man Randy Savage

    New details are coming regarding the shocking death of WWE legend “Macho Man” Randy Savage .

    According to the Florida Highway patrol, Savage was driving his 2009 Jeep Wrangler when he suffered a heart attack. Savage lost control, veered across a concrete median into oncoming traffic and “collided head-on with a tree.”

    Savage was taken to Largo Medical center, where he died from his injuries.

    Savage’s wife was a passenger during the time of the accident but survived with “minor injuries.”

    COMMENT BELOW and share your memories of Macho Man Randy Savage’s career.

    (Source: TMZ.com)

  • BREAKING NEWS: Macho Man Randy Savage Has Died

    We are in shock right now over this news .. TMZ.com is reporting that WWE legend “Macho Man” Randy Savage has died.

    TMZ spoke with Randy’s brother, Lanny “The Genius” Poffo, who told TMZ that Savage suffered a heart attack while driving at 10am this morning, lost control of his vehicle and crashed.

    Randy Savage was 58.

    This is absolutely heartbreaking news … We’ll have more on this throughout the day.

  • Paul Heyman Knocks WWE For Not Pushing CM Punk

    Paul Heyman is making headlines today with some controversial remarks about how WWE is handling the career of Nexus leader CM Punk.

    Amid reports that CM Punk is unhappy behind the scenes and is considering leaving WWE when his contract expires later this year, Paul Heyman wrote on Twitter (@heymanhustle):

    “I’m sure he will get heat for me saying this, but @CMPunk is STILL the most underutilized talent on the WWE roster. And my apologies to @CMPunk for the heat he’ll get, but come on already. Punk is the best heel in the biz today! WAKE THE F**K UP! It’s amazing to me (and not in a good way) that WWE doesn’t see how @CMPunk has brought out the best in every opponent.”

    CM Punk caught wind of Paul Heyman’s rant and responded with:

    “oh you know me, if I don’t have heat I’m doing something wrong. Keeps me warm.”

    WWE Hall of Fame Steve Austin, who has exchanged words with Punk over Twitter in recent weeks, quoted Paul Heyman’s tweet and added, “Agreed.”

    COMMENT BELOW and tell us what you think about CM Punk’s lack of push in WWE .. Does Punk have what it takes to be pushed ahead of other top young heels like The Miz and Alberto Del Rio?

  • Christian Talks About His Short Title Reign, Edge’s Retirement

    WWE star Christian was interviewed this week on by Brian Fritz of the Between The Ropes radio show. Here are some highlights of what Christian said about:

    Edge’s Retirement: “I knew he was having a little bit of trouble before WrestleMania. I knew that his neck had been bothering him a little bit. Obviously, none of us knew the extent of it… He called me right after he got the news so I knew right away. Obviously, he was pretty shaken by it, taken by surprise, and things like that. We all were. One of the things we discussed is what an amazing career he’s had. You can compare it to some of the best that have ever lived.”

    His Short Reign As World Heavyweight Champion: “Obviously it was overwhelming, surprising, and flattering to an extent. It’s the age that we live in now with the internet and with spoilers and people like that, the show hasn’t even aired yet and people are giving opinions and these other sort of things. You have to take it with a grain of salt. The most important thing is that Randy (Orton) and I put on an amazing match for the fans.”

    Whether He Thought He’d Ever Be Champion: “I did I always believed in my talent. I think it shows every time I step through the ropes. It was always my goal and I was never going to give on it. I always believed it would happen … Obviously, I wanted to hold it longer than five days, but that’s what happens. I look forward to become a two-time World champion.”

    You can listen to the full show here:

  • Picture Of The TNA Billboard Near WWE Headquarters

    As we reported earlier this week, TNA Wrestling has purchased a number of billboard advertisements near WWE headquarters in Stanford, Connecticut as part of their new “Wrestling Matters” ad campaign.

    The editor of WWE’s website Craig Tello posted a picture of the billboard online with the caption:

    “Just saw a #TNA billboard in Stamford on the train to work @WWE. They re-booking the Invasion angle? #IWantWrestling…to stop recycling.”

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross commented on the situation at JRsBarBQ.com, writing:

    “I heard about TNA putting up billboards in Stamford, Ct, which is the world HQ of WWE. Thoughts? A complete waste of money unless obscure mentions such as this one is what TNA is looking for. Silly expenditure of money IMO. One would think that organization would have bigger and more important fish to fry. However, what TNA does isn’t any of my business or concern but the question was asked and has now been addressed. I would guess that many WWE, Stamford based employees learned of TNA for the first time via the local billboards.”

    Here is a picture of the billboard that’s getting so much attention .. What do you think about TNA buying billboards in WWE’s home turf? Is it a clever marketing move, or a waste of resources like Jim Ross says? COMMENT below..

  • Update On Morrison’s Neck Surgery, Uprising, Jericho-DWTS

    – Following recent neck surgery to alleviate pain from a pinched nerve, John Morrison provided this update on Twitter regarding his physical therapy:

    “I appreciate all the great tweets wishing me a speedy recovery… I haven’t been able to do any rehab yet…”

    “…but eventually, I will come back stronger than I’ve ever been (& with more knowledge of medical TV shows than I ever wanted) “

    Shortly after Morrison’s procedure, it was reported by the WWE website and by Jim Ross’s blog that Morrison would be back in the ring in 1-2 months .. Since he has yet to begin physical therapy, chances are his return will be later than sooner, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing coming off neck surgery.

    * Picture of JOHN MORRISON At The Hospital Following Neck Surgery

    – Chris Jericho and his Dancing With The Stars partner Cheryl Burke were eliminated from the competition a few weeks ago, but they’ll be pairing up one more time on the show’s season finale in a few weeks. Jericho tweeted on Thursday:

    “Got the dancing shoes back on and it feels great! @cherylburke and I put together a KILLER routine for the DWTS finale, ur gonna dig it!”

    – Earlier this week, it was announced that WWE is scrapping the RAW vs. SmackDown “Bragging Rights” pay-per-view event and has renamed it “Uprising” … It’s worth noting that Uprising has been used as a PPV title before, by the Dragon Gate USA promotion as well as a small MMA company that ran a show from Australia last year featuring Ken Shamrock.

  • Rap Legend Melle Mel Hypes The Debut Of The UWF

    Grammy award-winning recording artist, hip-hop legend & former WWE developmental wrestler Melle Mel, along with the President of the Urban Wrestling Federation Steve Karel, were two of the featured guests on this week’s live edition of the award-winning Monday Night Mayhem radio show.

    Melle Mel & Steve Karel Discuss The Official Launch Of The Urban Wrestling Federation, The Idea & Concept Of The UWF, The Motivation Mel Had To Get Back into The Wrestling Business After His WWE Developmental Experience, The Forthcoming “First Blood” Pay-Per-View Taping At The Hammerstein Ballroom In New York City, The Importance Of Mixing In Established Veterans & Talents That Have Performed With Name Brands With Regional Independent Talent That Fit The Urban Culture Persona In Making The Urban Wrestling Federation What It’s “Supposed To Be,” What Can Be Brought From The World of Hip-Hop Into Professional Wrestling That Will help The UWF Become Successful, Plus “The Message” That He Wants The Urban Wrestling Federation To Send To The WWE.

    To read highlights about what Melle Mel and Steve Karel said, as well as listen to an MP3 of the entire show, head over to DefSounds.com.

  • WWE Talent Now Required To Buy Their Own Health Insurance

    A major change was recently made to WWE’s talent contracts.

    WWE is now requiring all of its signed talent to purchase and maintain medical insurance for themselves. WWE will not be covering the cost of the insurance, but as independent contractors, the workers would be able to write off the cost of the medical insurance as a business expense.

    The news comes just weeks after the UFC announced that it will be paying for medical insurance for all of its contracted fighters, but it’s not directly related to that situation. WWE has been planning the corporate policy change for quite some time, prior to UFC’s announcement.

    WWE requiring its superstars and divas to buy health insurance is something that we’ve heard was being discussed and it was confirmed earlier this week.

    What do you think about think about WWE mandating its talent have health insurance? Is it a good move? Should WWE be paying for it ?

    (Credit to Pwinsider.com for some of the info used in this report)

  • Who Is Behind TNA’s Rebranding, TNA’s PPV Buyrates, Reality Star

    – While the official numbers are not publicly released, we have approximate data regarding how many people are purchasing TNA’s monthly pay-per-view events.

    While WWE shoots for the big “1 million buys” mark every year for WrestleMania, it puts a lot in perspective to learn that TNA Bound For Glory 2010 drew just over 30,000 buys. The next most-ordered show of 2010 was Hardcore Justice, which did around 20,000 buys. TNA’s other pay-per-views in 2010 did between 8,000 and 15,000 buys.

    – With TNA’s recent image change that included re-branding the Spike TV show and the company’s new “Wrestling Matters” tagline, there has also been a strong push behind the scenes to change the company’s name entirely.

    Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff in particular want the name changed, with Hulk Hogan saying in recent radio interviews that TNA does not get taken seriously in high-level business meetings because most people think “tits and ass” when they hear the letters.

    – Reality TV star Jessie Godderz worked a dark match before Monday night’s TNA tapings in Orlando, losing to Robbie E. Godderz has worked several TNA dark matches in the past and sat ringside with Dixie Carter at several events.

    Check Out:

    (Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

  • Picture Of Hulk Hogan’s New Tattoo, Chyna’s TNA Future & More

    – Former WWE diva Chyna made her TNA debut last week on Impact Wrestling and wrestled her first TNA match at Sunday’s Sacrifice pay-per-view, teaming with Kurt Angle to defeat Jeff and Karen Jarrett.

    As previously reported, Chyna has not yet signed a contract with TNA and is working on a handshake deal at this point. With her spotty track record and TNA’s recent problems involving talent that “like to party” .. company officials are seeing how things go. One of our TNA sources informed us that Chyna has been very easy to work with and there’s a strong chance that she will be making more appearances in the coming weeks.

    Chyna did not appear at this week’s Impact Wrestling tapings.

    – Chris Harris was at Monday and Tuesday’s Impact Wrestling tapings, but was not used on camera.

    – Stan sent word that Sunday’s TNA Sacrifice pay-per-view had 1 hour and 36 minutes of in-ring action. By comparison, April’s Lockdown show had 1 hour and 34 minutes.

    – Hulk Hogan has a new “Immortal” tattoo across the top of his back .. Check it out, brother:

  • Urban Wrestling Federation Holding First Show On 6/3 In NYC

    Pro wrestling has been a favorite past time of hip hop culture for decades – and now, the worlds are colliding with the formation of the Urban Wrestling Federation.

    Melle Mel, Red Café and Cuban Link are among the hip hop artists that have already signed on to be a part of the UWF, which is holding its first live show on Friday June 3rd from the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City – a venue that’s featured dozens of memorable wrestling shows for WWE, ECW, Ring Of Honor and more.

    If you are a fan of hip hop music – we strongly encourage you to check out SEScoops’ new hip hop news affiliate site – DEFSOUNDS.com.

    We are not going to bombard you with hip hop news here on SEScoops, but a few links here and there can’t hurt!

    Check out the official press release sent out on Thursday hyping the debut of the UWF:

    URBAN WRESTLING FEDERATION SLAMS ONTO THE SCENE WITH ‘FIRST BLOOD’ LAUNCH, LIVE IN NEW YORK CITY, AND FILMED FOR NATIONAL RELEASE ON PAY-PER-VIEW

    UWF Combines Hip Hop Music And Professional Wrestling To Present The Feuds Of The Streets As Unprecedented Entertainment

    MAY 18 – NEW YORK – It’s no secret that there’s been an age-old battle for turf domination brewing in America’s urban neighborhoods; a battle that will now be settled inside the ropes. The ring is the new block. On Friday, June 3rd, disputes will boil over and total domination will be the prize, as the latest innovation in sports entertainment, the Urban Wrestling Federation (UWF), debuts live New York City.

    The UWF is kicking off with a star-studded battle between the toughest thugs in the hip-hop community. Rappers such as Melle Mel, Red Café, Big Block, Uncle Murda, Brisco, Billy Blue, Gorilla Zoe, Gun Play and Cuban Link have signed onto the UWF. You can expect a variety of these hip-hop bosses to be in the ring for the fight to own their turf. In addition, these hip-hop ‘shot callers’ have teamed up with the most hardcore “no joke” professional wrestling thugs to ensure that top notch talent will hash out their feuds, leaving the toughest, most legit, ‘fam’ to walk away with full UWF domination.

    By tapping the newest and freshest top wrestling talent, the UWF is set to debut a level of extreme in-ring warfare that guarantees over the top insanity and a never-before-seen experience. Seasoned wrestling veterans including HOMICIDE, RICKY ORTIZ, SCORPIO SKY, and RICKY REYES will join a team of high-flying newcomers, who will deliver ground-breaking wrestling and hood-crazy stunts, changing the game, and setting trends for new world entertainment.

    ‘First Blood’ will go down at the famed NYC Hammerstein Ballroom at 311 West 34th Street in Manhattan. In addition to exploding in front of a packed crowd of thousands, ‘First Blood’ will be filmed for a dynamic national pay-per-view special, which will first air on Sunday, June 26th at 8:00pm edt (5:00pm pdt) with an encore presentation at 11:00pm edt (8pm pdt). Additional airings will occur on national cable and satellite networks including iN DEMAND, DIRECTV, TVN Ent, etc. New episodes of Urban Wrestling Federation will air on Pay Per View in September and November. Tickets for the live event are now available at www.TicketMaster.com and at the Hammerstein Box Office.

    Developed by television and live events icon, Steve ‘The Hustler’ Karel, his leadership ensures that UWF will be like nothing else ever seen in the music or wrestling arenas. Having honed his wrestling skills during his time with Extreme Championship Wrestling, Karel caused widespread controversy when he first cleared on national broadcast insane stunts that included barbed wire, pyrotechnic weapons and over-the-top in-ring-chaos.

    Bob Chiappardi, Concrete Marketing CEO, will be spearheading the music efforts for the federation. He had previously worked with Karel on ECW, which spawned two soundtracks, one of which earned a Grammy nomination. Chiappardi also worked extensively with the WWE as a music supervisor on several soundtracks and music based promotions. “Music, typically heavy metal or rock & roll, has always been a part of wrestling entertainment”, said Chiappardi. “As opposed to matches of the past where music has filled the background, the UWF will bring music to the forefront showcasing established urban stars and rising talent.

    “By combining urban music and professional wrestling, we’ve created the ideal opportunity for dynamic and exciting entertainment while opening an avenue that guarantees higher attendance with new marketing and sponsorship opportunities,” said Karel.

  • Kurt Angle Talks Chyna In TNA, Working With Karen, Lesnar

    Kurt Angle conducted an exclusive hour-long interview with Busted Open, which will aired earlier today on Sirius 92 and XM 207.

    Here are some highlights of what Kurt said about:

    Chyna’s debut with TNA: “She looked good. She looked healthy too. You know what even though we only had 1,400 people there. The response that just came from those fans sent a big message to Hulk Hogan and Dixie Carter and myself as well that Chyna will always be a huge name. It was cool because when they introduced her this “Y” came up. It was a heartbeat. It was a “Y.” All of a sudden there was an “H” and an “N” next to it and there was a heartbeat. And then when there was a “C-H-Y-N-A,” people were like “Holy….” No way. Chyna. She’s coming. Oh my God and then she came out and she looked good. It was like she is back. It was one of the feel good moments for Impact Wrestling. It was cool. I mean, Chyna is going to….shes going to cause a ruckus in Impact Wrestling. I hope they have her wrestle the guys she was, but TNA, I should say Impact Wrestling is very pro-women as far as women wresting women. I remember when Awesome Kong came in and I told Jeff Jarrett I want to wrestle her right now. Let me put me over. He’s like no. She’s going with women. I believe Chyna should go with the guys eventually.”

    Working With His Ex-Wife Karen: “Thank God everything worked out well because I found the right person in my life and Karen would be the first to admit that I was very questionable about the whole marriage. It was a rough marriage, but we kept trying to make it work and we tried to make it work for our kids, but with Jeff it was a trust factor because Jeff and I are really tight and then this happened. It was like I couldn’t have done that to you? God bless him. His wife had cancer and died. She was a wonderful lady. I don’t think I could have done that. For a while there was a trust factor. I had them both written off the show just until my anger dropped. I had some anger towards the both of them. I wanted to be released and they gave me my wishes of what do you want? I wanted them gone. I can’t work with them here, but once I realized the right thing happened. The only downfall to it is my kids live in Tennessee. Other than that everyone is happy. We actually get along really well. My kids we try to keep them…they’re not allowed to watch the show. We’re down with this angle. They were only in the show or they were in the park or my son or my daughter walk into an arena with me, but they didn’t see any of the drama. We’ve protected our kids and a lot of people would differ with that. We have kept our kids out of it completely. I’m happier now then I have ever been and Karen is happy. I love Jeff’s kids like they’re my own kids, so when I see them I treat them like they’re my own kids. If I’m watching them and my kids are there and Jeff’s kids are there I will treat them all the same, great kids, so with that may fiancé Giovanna and my new daughter Juliana I’m just in a good place in my life. When I found the right person with Giovanna it made it easier for me. I knew Karen was a great talent. You have to admit Karen is very talented at what she does. She’s pretty good as a character on TV. I knew that for a long time and she wasn’t real interested. She wanted to get back on the show. I figured she’s going to bring the kids down. I’m going to see the kids more. Thank god I did get to see my kids more, but I think the angle went a little bit too long. We went a little bit too far and other then that I don’t regret it. I saw my kids and because Karen would bring them down during the shows when they come. In that aspect I wouldn’t have seen my kids for the past three months if it weren’t for Karen bringing them down. It’s been a blessing.”

    Did He And Brock Lesnar Wrestle For Real In WWE? “Brock is a very dear friend. He is a beast. To be honest with you me personally right now and there’s a difference between Olympic wrestling and MMA fighting and there are also a lot of similarities, but I do well. Yes I do incredibly well. Have I’ve been offered to do it? Yes I’ve been offered a lot of money to do it, but my focus is more on the Olympics because I have been so good at wrestling my whole life and that’s what I’m best at. I think I have a better shot at making an Olympic team then going and getting beat up doing MMA and having five fights. Those fights, these guys take a beating. You have to train so much and when you fight the fights are the ones that take years off your life because they are brutal. You’re getting banged up and beat up, your joints, your neck, your face, so Brock and I had…the thing is Brock was dodging me for a few months because everyone wanted to see it happened and I kept asking him and asking him and one day he got in a ring with Big Show and he was tossing Big Show around. Big Show was about 520 pounds at the time. Brock was picking him up and slamming him down and I’m going “Wow maybe I shouldn’t get in the ring with him.” I looked at Big Show and Brock back was looking towards me and I said get out and he said “Okay. Okay.” He snuck out of the ring and I go out and I tapped Brock on the back. He turned around and said “Ah s–t.” I said, “Let’s go,” because he said six months before they asked how would he do against me? He said, “Well Kurt is too small. I’m way bigger than him. I’ll kill him, so I took that personally. I wouldn’t let it go until we got in the ring. We got into the ring and I got a good piece of him. I will tell you this: Listen Brock is no joke. I think he is the best heavyweight fighter in the world. I have a lot of respect for him. He’s a good friend of mine. You know him and I did go at it and I did get the best of him, but you know I still have so much respect for him.”