Author: Staff

  • RAW Rating Down, The Fink & Mean Gene On “Old School” RAW

    – Monday’s Last night’s episode of WWE Monday Night RAW drw a 3.1 cable rating, down from last week’s 3.1, and had 4.5 million viewers, down from 4.8 million last week. The show was taped on Monday afternoon from Manchester, England.

    – WWE Hall of Famer Howard Finkel will serve as the ring announcer for next week’s 3-hour “Old School” RAW from Hershey, PA. Mean Gene Okerlund will also be on hand conducting interviews.

    The following names from the past have been confirmed for the show:

    – Rowdy Roddy Piper
    – Jimmy Snuka
    – Dusty Rhodes
    – Ted DiBiase
    – Arn Anderson
    – The Iron Sheik
    – “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan
    – Sgt. Slaughter
    – Nikolai Volkoff
    – Irwin R Shyster

  • JR Blogs MMA: Lesnar vs. Mir 3, Cain Velasquez’ Popularity

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his JRsBarBQ.com blog with some UFC commentary .. Here are some highlights of what he wrote about:

    Frank Mir vs. Brock Lesnar 3? “Man, is Frank Mir lobbying for another shot at Brock Lesnar or what? I don’t expect to see Lesnar back in the Octagon until spring and many seem to want to see Brock fight Roy Nelson. The Mir fight would provide plenty of verbal fireworks in building the fight for UFC and perhaps some fans would pay to either see Lesnar destroy Mir in their ‘rubber match’ or perhaps some Kool Aid drinking, MMA 100% purists would pay to see Lesnar lose his second fight in a row.”

    Cain Velasquez’ Popularity: “UFC’s strategic marketing to the Hispanic audience in Cain Velásquez’s quest to become the first ever Mexican Heavyweight Champion in UFC was a promotional stroke of genius. I’ve talked to many people that were not major MMA fans who emotionally invested in the Lesnar-Carwin fight because of the storyline via the commercials that they saw on TV.”

  • Video: Matt Hardy’s “State Of The Business” Part 1

    Matt Hardy is back with another YouTube video .. The former WWE superstar has begun a new series where he’ll give his candid thoughts on the state of the wrestling industry. Here’s what he posted on YouTube:

    This is Part 1 of “My Take On The State Of The Business.”

    I discuss what I think is good and bad in the pro wrestling business, what the wrestling business could do to become hot again, as well as why it’s in its current state. Please comment and give me your opinions and feedback.. I look forward to reading your comments! Thanks, and I hope you enjoy my thoughts.

  • Lyoto Machida Talks About Training For Rampage

    Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Lyoto Machida returns to the Octagon at UFC 123 when he takes on Rampage Jackson. Machida spoke to Tatame.com this week and said the following about his training for the fight:

    “I don’t underestimate any fighter. I think that, just as I’m prepared for anything during the fight, so are they: the stand-up game, the takedowns and the ground game. Of course we have our game plan set, our strong point is Karate and the exchanges, but if we need to use the other skills, we will do the takedowns and the ground game that I train here with Valter Broca, who’s a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, graduated by De La Riva, who always help me on this area.”

    Final Card For UFC 123: Rampage vs. Machida (11/20)

  • BJ Penn Hypes His Fight With Matt Hughes At UFC 123

    Former UFC welterweight champions B.J. Penn and Matt Hughes will square off for the third time at UFC 123 on November 20th. Penn who won the first fight, said the following about his strategy for the fight:

    “I kind of just feel like I want to train, keep improving, keep adjusting,” he said. “You know I tried some stuff in the Frankie Edgar fight. I didn’t defend the takedowns as hard as I wanted to because I wanted to try a couple sweeps but I didn’t have the condition(ing). It’s always a wake-up call when you lose because you know you’re going to alter something in your training, you know, something has to change in the training.”

    He continued, giving some insight into his strategy for this fight. “I’m going to train pretty traditional. I’m going to do a lot of striking, a lot of grappling, I’m going to run hard and I’m going to do everything I need to do. I think Matt’s looked good in his last three fights. … Anything Matt Hughes does, doesn’t surprise me.”

    Source: Sherdog.com

  • Jeff Hardy Back In Court, Foley On The Daily Show

    – Jeff Hardy is due back in a North Carolina Superior Court on December 8th for another hearing on his drug charges from September 2009. TNA will tape the last four iMPACT episodes of 2010 from December 6th through the 9th, so Hardy might miss those tapings.

    VIEW HERE: Jeff Hardy’s Mugshot Picture From 2009

    – Mick Foley will be returning to Comedy Central’s The Daily Show on Wednesday night.

    – TNA has announced the card for the company’s 11/12 return to “The Asylum” in Nashville, TN. The following matches are scheduled to take place:

    * TNA World Champion Jeff Hardy will be in action

    * AJ Styles vs. Raven

    * The Motor City Machineguns vs. Ink Inc. vs. Beer Money

    * The Pope vs. Abyss, Jeff Jarrett vs. Samoa Joe

    * Madison Rayne vs. Velvet Sky

    Also, Mr. Anderson will be in action

  • TNA Wrestling Introduces New World Title Belt (Picture)

    TNA introduced a new World championship belt at Monday’s iMPACT! tapings from Orlando.

    Hulk Hogan threw the old belt in the trash and presented Jeff Hardy with the one. The segment will air this Thursday night on Spike.

    Unlike the previous traditional black and gold belt, the new belt has a red strap and some very uniquely-shaped metal plates.

    COMMENT BELOW: What do you guys think of the TNA Belt? Unique or Ugly as Hell?

  • Survivor Series Changes, More Legends For Old School RAW

    – Also on RAW, a few changes were announced to two of the top matches at Survivor Series. Randy Orton’s WWE title defense against Wade Barrett with John Cena will be a “pinfall or submission only” match – which means no disqualifications. The Divas Title match will now be a handicap match, with both Lay-Cool members defending against Natalya.

    – On Monday’s RAW, it was announced that “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, Superfly Jimmy Snuka, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Nikolai Volkoff and Iron Sheik will appearing on next week’s 3-hour “Old School” edition of WWE RAW. “Mean” Gene Okerlund will also be on hand to conduct interviews.

    — Randy Orton pinned Wade Barrett in a three way dark match after RAW with Sheamus after Barrett brought the belt in and went for Orton. Orton ducked and hit Sheamus. Orton took the belt and hit Barrett and pinned him.

  • Rey Mysteiro Returns To Action, 2 Matches For SmackDown

    – SmackDown star Rey Mysterio returned to the ring on Monday’s live event from Newcastle, England. Mysterio and Edge defeated Alberto Del Rio and Cody Rhodes in tag team action. Rey was on the sidelines for a few weeks due to an inner ear infection but is now healthy and is expected at Tuesday’s SmackDown tapings.

    – On Monday’s RAW, two matches were announced for Smackdown this Friday:

    * World Heavyweight Champion Kane vs. Big Show

    * Edge vs. David Otunga in a Lumberjack match. If David Otunga loses, he’s out of Nexus.

  • *SPOILERS* For Tonight’s WWE RAW From Manchester, UK

    Tonight’s episode of WWE RAW is being taped on Monday afternoon from Manchester, England.

    Here are full results:

    – The show starts with John Cena coming down to the ring. Cena introduces Wade Barrett for his “homecoming.” Barrett vows to capture the WWE Championship at Survivor series from Randy Orton. Randy Orton comes down to the ring with Cena and Barrett. While all 3 men are in the ring, the Anonymous RAW General Manager sends in an alert, read by Michael Cole. It’s announced that the main event of tonight’s show will be a 10-man tag team match, with Randy Orton and Wade Barrett as opposing team captains. Barrett’s team will be Nexus members and the RAW GM will select Randy Orton’s 4 partners.

    The Bella Twins and Eve defeated Maryse, Tamina and Alicia Fox. The Bella Twins switched places during the match, allowing one of them to get the win for their team.

    – The Uso Brothers defeated The Hart Dynasty with the Snukka Splash. David Hart Smith tried walking out of the match, but Natalya stopped him. The crowd was pretty dead for this one.

    – David Otunga vs. John Cena was announced for later in the show.

    – Santino Marella will host “Tea Team” tonight with his special guest, Sheamus.

    – Randy Orton cut a promo backstage. The Miz walked in and revealed that he is on Team Orton.

    Goldust defeated Ted DiBiase Jr. Maryse tried to steal the million dollor belt during the match, but Aksana stole it back.

    John Cena defeated David Otunga. The rest of Nexus left ringside for the match, continuing the angle that David Otunga is on his way out of Nexus. Cena got the win via submission with the STF.

    – It was announced that David Otunga will face Edge on Friday’s WWE Smackdown show. If Otunga loses the match, he is out of Nexus.

    Sheamus defeated Santino Marella by disqualification. Santino was hosting a “Tea Party” segment with Sheamus as his guest when the Anonymous RAW GM booked them in a match. The finish came after Santino hit Sheamus with a low blow. After the match, Sheamus was beating Santino down until John Morrison made the save.

    – Backstage, Wade Barrett promised John Cena that Nexus will leave him alone if Barrett wins the WWE Championship at Survivor Series.

    – Nexus defeated Randy Orton, The Miz, Daniel Bryan, Mark Henry, and R-Truth. John Cena was the referee. Nexus got the win after The Miz struck Orton with the Money in the Bank briefcase.

  • John Cena & The Rock Considered For New Superman Movie

    The Superman movie franchise is being rebooted in 2012 and casting is already underway for the lead roles of Superman and his mild-mannered alter ego, Clark Kent.

    According to a few entertainment industry publications, both John Cena and Dwayne ‘The Rock” Johnson are being considered for the lead role in Superman: Man Of Steel.

    IMDB.com reports that the film is being executive produced by Christopher Nolan (“The Dark Knight”) and will be directed by Zach Snyder.

    Aside from John Cena and The Rock, actor Joe Manganiello (“Spider Man 3,” “True Blood”) is also being considered for the part.

    (Source: Examiner.com)

  • Update On Fedor’s Negotiations With Strikeforce

    Strikeforce heavyweight fighter Fedor Emelianenko (21-2) currently has one fight left on his current deal. Strikeforce President Scott Coker  recently spoke to the New York Daily News and said he feels “good” that Emelianenko will re-sign:

    “As everybody knows we have a negotiation ongoing with M-1 right now, and I wish I had a simple answer, but it’s an ongoing negotiation. I feel good about it, I feel good about the negotiations. Whether you’re dealing with Dream, or you’re dealing with M-1, or any foreign company there’s always a translation issue, and there’s always a cultural issue, and there’s just a lot of barriers that will come. We’re trying to navigate through the waters and get a fair deal for everybody.”

  • Rampage Says He’s “Not Worried” About Machida (Video)

    Former UFC Light heavyweight champions Quinton “Rampage” Jackson (30-8) and Lyoto “The Dragon” Machida (16-1) will square off later this month at UFC 123 on Saturday, November 20th.

    As you’d expect, Rampage sounds supremely confident for the upcoming showdown:

  • Hulk Hogan Denies Flashing His Junk In Video

    Earlier this week, we posted a link to a video featuring TNA star Hulk Hogan playing the new “Def Jam Rapstar” video game with his daughter Brooke and allegedly exposing himself. Hogan’s private parts were censored in the video with a black box, but it was pretty apparent exactly what Hogan was doing.

    Now, Hogan has gone on Twitter and has responded to the story:

    “Be on the lookout for press, from people apologizing and releases of real footage from the video with nothing but good, clean fun”

    He added:

    “My real friends and fans know what I’m really all about and after 30 years, I’m not about public displays of private parts.”

    Whether or not Hogan’s junk actually was exposed under that black censored box – from the video, it’s pretty clear what they were going for.. Check it out below and judge for yourself:

  • GSP Says He Will KO Or Submit Koscheck At UFC 124

    UFC Welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre is usually not much of a trash talker,  but had the following to say about his upcoming rematch fight with Josh Koscheck at UFC 124 on December 11th ..

    “Yeah, I think he’s going to try to put me down. I also think he’s going to try to knock me out with his big right hand but I know him. I’ve been studying so much tape on him, I’ve got to the point where I know Josh Koscheck probably better than he even knows himself. My coaches have been studying him a lot. Being with him on the Ultimate Fighter for eight weeks was a way for me to know him a little bit better as a person and as a fight”

    GSP continued:

    “I knew how he was before I got there. I think he was like that to get inside my head, and to keep the fans entertained. I don’t think he’s a bad person. In a way, I think that’s his way to motivate himself. He likes to be the bad guy…. [I’ll] win, that’s all I can say. Submission or knockout.”

    (Source: MixedMartialArts.com)

  • Steve Austin Interview: Hosting RAW, The Rock, Lesnar

    WWE Hall of Famer “Stone Cold” Steve Austin appeared on the Wresting Voice podcast this week and spoke about a number of topics. Here are some highlights of what Austin said about:

    Hosting RAW In December: “I heard those rumors. I started hearing them last night and I started hearing them this morning on the computer. Man, I haven’t heard anything about that. I’m getting ready to leave to film a movie in a week. When I get done with that, I’ll be in Texas. Then, I’m coming back to work on another movie. If I’m supposed to be in Albany in December, I was figuring to be in Texas. Nobody has told me anything.”

    The Rock’s Movie Career: “I think I’m about as separated from wrestling as I can get. It seems like I’ve been away forever. I’ll make an appearance every now and then to promote something on Raw, but I think I’m about as far as away from it as I can get. That said, I love the wrestling business and I love my fans, but I’m not in the mix anymore.”

    Undertaker & Lesnar’s Confrontation: “It looked like they were attempting something,” he said. “My opinion, when I look at the UFC and WWE, trying to mix those two is like oil and water. I don’t see anything happening out of it.”

    Austin was there to promote his new action movie, “Hunt To Kill.” You can check out the official trailer for for the movie by clicking here.

  • JR Blog: Austin Hosting RAW? Lita’s Surprise Return

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog, which you can read in its entirety at JRsBarBQ.com. Here are some highlights of what JR said about:

    Steve Austin Not Hosting RAW? “To the best of my knowledge, Steve Austin has not been officially scheduled to appear on an upcoming Raw as has been reported elsewhere. Steve is preparing to film another movie in Vancouver soon that will take him into December. At that time I assume he will head to his Texas ranch for some R&R and to celebrate the holidays. Jan and I hope to visit Steve and his crew at the Broken Skull Ranch in late December or early January. BTW Steve’s latest movie ‘Hunt to Kill’ is out next week on DVD and it’s a cool, kick ass movie that I really enjoyed. I think that you will too especially if you like to see Stone Cold kick the bad guy’s butt. Good storyline/script that makes for some stout action/adventure.”

    Lita Appearing On RAW: “Enjoyed seeing Lita make her cameo on Raw Monday night. She was one of the all time great Divas in WWE and I can still vividly remember her job interview in my WWE office many years ago. I assume she will not come back to WWE full time but, as a fan of her work, it would be nice to see her back for a short run. I think that the team of Trish & Lita vs. Lay Cool, for example, would be a really nice attraction type bout at WM27. Just an idea.”

  • *SPOILERS* WWE SmackDown Tapings Results For Friday

    WWE SmackDown on Syfy

    Credit to reader Nick Fox for sending in this live report of Tuesday’s WWE SmackDown! tapings from Bridgeport, CT:

    *Edge vs. Alberto Del Rio goes to a no contest when The Nexus (except Wade Barrett) hits the ring and attacks both. David Otunga says that Nexus are taking over. Kane, Big Show and Rey Mysterio make the save.

    * Teddy Long announces a ten man tag tonight: The Nexus vs. Edge, Del Rio, Big Show, Rey Mysterio, & Kane.

    * WWE Intercontinental champion Dolph Ziggler defeated JTG. Kaitlyn comes into the ring to celebrate with Dolph but Vickie Guerrero comes out and slaps her. Officials hold the women apart.

    *Backstage, Guerrero storms into Teddy Long’s office and demands revenge against Kaitlyn. Long makes the match.

    *Backstage, The Nexus attack Rey Mysterio and lay him out. David Otunga says that Wade Barrett is in Great Britain, but they attacked Rey because they can.

    *MVP, who had new theme music, defeated Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes in a Three-Way to earn an Intercontinental championship match. The former Dashing Ones worked together early but that didn’t last long.

    * Vickie Guerrero pinned Kaitlyn.

    * Teddy Long announces Kofi Kingston will replace Rey Mysterio tonight.

    * Backstage, Kelly Kelly and Kaval congraulate MVP on his win. The Nexus attack Kaval and MVP.

    * Tyler Reks pinned Chris Masters.

    * Team Smackdown defeated The Nexus.

  • Linda McMahon Formally Thanks Her Campaign Supporters

    Linda McMahon’s campaign issued the following to her mailing list:

    Dear Friend,

    It has been my honor and pleasure to have had the opportunity to run for the United States Senate here in Connecticut.

    I couldn’t have done it without you. Your faith and trust in me during the past 13 months has meant so very much.

    I have thoroughly enjoyed traveling around our beautiful state from the northwest corner, to the quiet corner down along the shoreline and into Fairfield county with points in between. We racked up 52,000 miles on the campaign vehicle but the journey has been a joy.

    I am also very proud of the campaign that we have run. Our ground game was tremendous: hardworking volunteers like you knocked on 100,000 doors, made more than 400,000 phone calls and proudly placed countless yard signs in front of your homes and businesses.

    My campaign’s focus was on economic recovery and job creation, and today, that same focus must remain the top priority of our newly elected officials. Let us all make sure they have our support for the good of our state and our country.

    The United States is the best place to live in and I truly believe we as American’s have a strength and resolve that will pull us through these next few unpredictable years. We must look ahead and bring ourselves to remember as President Ronald Reagan once said, “If you’re afraid of the future, then get out of the way, stand aside. The people of this country are ready to move again.”

    Thank you all for your heartfelt support and encouragement. Sincerely,

    Linda McMahon

  • PPV Buyrates Down For 2010’s SummerSlam, MITB & NOC

    As part of its Third Quarter 2010 financial results that were released on Thursday morning, World Wrestling Entertainment released the official pay-per-view buyrates and revenues for the quarter – and no surprise here, they’re down from last year.

    WWE’s 3 pay-per-view events from July-September generated $13.6 million which is down 6.2% from $14.5 million in same quarter in 2009. PPV buys were down an alarming 16% from the same quarter last year.

    Here is the breakdown:

    • Money in the Bank (July) did 165,000 buys, down from the 267,000 buys that Night of Champions drew in July 2009.
    • SummerSlam (August) did 350,000 buys, down from the 369,000 buys that SummerSlam 2009 drew.
    • Night of Champions (September) did a 165,000 buys, down from the 169,000 buys earned by the Breaking Point in September 2009.

    It’s worth noting that WWE raised the price of pay-per-view events by $5 this year .. One could make the argument that the company would have likely sold more PPV events had the price remained lower, but PPV buyrates and overall PPV revenue are down either way.

    For more details on WWE’s Third Quarter 2010 financial results, click here.

  • WWE Announces Third Quarter 2010 Financial Results

    WWE has released its Third Quarter 2010 Financial Results on Thursday morning …

    It’s quite interesting to note that WWE Chairman Vince McMahon did not take part in the company’s investor conference call, which he was previously scheduled for.

    Here’s the official statement from Corporate.WWE.com:

    STAMFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:WWENews) today announced financial results for its third quarter ended September 30, 2010. Revenues totaled $109.6 million as compared to $111.3 million in the prior year quarter. Operating income was $20.3 million as compared to $14.5 million in the prior year quarter. Net income was $14.3 million, or $0.19 per share, as compared to $8.9 million, or $0.12 per share, in the prior year quarter. Impacting comparability to the prior year quarter are production tax credits recorded in both current and prior year quarters. Excluding the impact of these credits, Adjusted Operating income was $14.2 million as compared to $12.0 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted Net income was $10.3 million, or $0.14 per share, as compared to $7.4 million, or $0.10 per share.

    “In the third quarter, our results reflected the Company’s continued focus on optimizing business results in a difficult environment,” stated Vince McMahon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We generated earnings growth despite a decline in revenue across many of our businesses. We believe our ongoing talent transition and the sluggish economy were important factors in these declines. Based on our history of developing talent and creating content with broad appeal, we are confident we can address these creative challenges. Further, by taking advantage of our strategic opportunities, we can achieve meaningful growth.”

    Comparability of Results

    Excluding the impact of production tax credits, Q3 2010 Adjusted Operating income increased 18% to $14.2 million and Adjusted EBITDA increased 12% to $17.4 million. The Q3 2010 results included approximately $6.1 million of tax credits received related to our television and digital media production activities, which were recorded as a reduction of the direct expense in these areas and in our selling, general and administrative costs. The Q3 2009 results included approximately $2.5 million of such tax credits, which were recorded in the same manner. (See Schedules of Adjustments in Supplemental Information)

    Results by Business Segment

    Revenues from North America decreased by 3%, led by declines in our Live Event and Home Video businesses, while revenues outside North America increased 2%, led by growth in our Television and Licensing businesses. There was no significant impact from changes in foreign exchange rates in the current quarter.

    The following tables reflect net revenues by segment and by region for the three months ended September 30, 2010 and September 30, 2009. (Dollars in millions)

    Three Months Ended
    Net Revenues
    September 30,

    2010
    September 30,

    2009
    Live and Televised Entertainment $
    73.8
    $
    77.9
    Consumer Products 21.4 23.0
    Digital Media 6.8 7.4
    WWE Studios 7.6 3.0
    Total $ 109.6 $ 111.3

    Three Months Ended
    Net Revenues by Region
    September 30,

    2010
    September 30,

    2009
    North America
    $
    78.9
    $
    81.3
    Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) 15.0 14.4
    Asia Pacific (APAC) 13.3 12.5
    Latin America 2.4 3.1
    Total $ 109.6 $ 111.3

    Live and Televised Entertainment

    Revenues from our Live and Televised Entertainment businesses were $73.8 million for the current quarter as compared to $77.9 million in the prior year quarter, representing a 5% decrease.

    • Live Event revenues were $22.8 million as compared to $27.2 million in the prior year quarter. Revenues decreased 16% primarily due to 15 fewer events in North America as lower average attendance, both domestically and internationally, was offset by higher average ticket prices.
      • There were 78 events, including 16 international events, during the current quarter as compared to 94 events, including 17 international events, in the prior year quarter, primarily due to changes in our touring schedule.
      • North American events generated $13.8 million of revenues from 62 events as compared to $16.6 million from 77 events in the prior year quarter. North American average attendance decreased 10% to approximately 5,200 from 5,800 in the prior year quarter. The average ticket price for North American events was $41.07 in the current quarter as compared to $36.26 in the prior year quarter.
      • International events generated approximately $9.0 million of revenues from 16 events as compared to $10.6 million from 17 events in the prior year quarter. International average attendance decreased 26% to approximately 6,700 from 9,100 in the prior year quarter. Average ticket prices were $86.07 as compared to $65.59 in the prior year quarter, a 31% increase, in part due to changes in foreign exchange rates.
    • Pay-Per-View revenues were $13.6 million as compared to $14.5 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting a 12% decline in total pay-per-view buys. Beginning in January 2010, the suggested domestic retail price of non-WrestleMania pay-per-view events increased $5.00 to $44.95.The details for the number of buys (in 000s) are as follows:

    Broadcast Month
    2010 Events (in
    chronological order)
    2009 Events (in
    chronological order)
    Three Months Ended
    September 30,
    2010
    2009
    July
    Money in the Bank
    Night of Champions® 165 267
    August SummerSlam® SummerSlam® 350 369
    September Night of Champions® Breaking Point® 165 169
    Prior events 55 31
    Total 735 836

    • Television Rights Fees revenues were $31.1 million as compared to $28.3 million in the prior year quarter. This increase was primarily due to contractual increases from our existing programs.
    • Venue Merchandise revenues were $3.9 million as compared to $4.3 million in the prior year quarter, as the impact of 15 fewer events in North America was partially offset by an 8% increase in domestic per capita merchandise sales to $9.44 in the current quarter.

    Consumer Products

    Revenues from our Consumer Products businesses decreased 7% to $21.4 million from $23.0 million in the prior year quarter, primarily due to the performance of our Home Video business.

    • Home Video net revenues were $7.2 million as compared to $11.2 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting lower sell-through rates. Shipments increased 2% to approximately 864,000 units in the current period. This increase in units was more than offset by a 6% decline in the average price per unit to approximately $12.17, reflecting discounted sales and promotions.
    • Licensing revenues were $10.8 million as compared to $7.9 million in the prior year quarter, predominantly due to higher toy sales. Revenues related to toys increased by approximately $2.4 million, reflecting improved performance and the strength our new partnership with Mattel. Revenues from video games decreased by approximately $0.5 million as the prior year quarter benefited from the release of an additional video game title, Legends of WrestleMania. Unit shipments of our SmackDown vs. Raw video game increased slightly as compared to the prior year quarter.
    • Magazine publishing net revenues were $2.6 million as compared to $3.4 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting lower newsstand sales in the current quarter.

    Digital Media

    Revenues from our Digital Media related businesses were $6.8 million as compared to $7.4 million in the prior year, representing an 8% decrease.

    • WWE.com revenues were $4.0 million as compared to $4.5 million in the prior year quarter, primarily reflecting a decline in online advertising and mobile content revenues.
    • WWEShop revenues were $2.8 million as compared to $2.9 million in the prior year quarter. The number of orders increased by 7% to approximately 59,000 while the average revenue per order declined to $46.04 as compared to $50.46 in the prior year quarter.

    WWE Studios

    During the current quarter, we recorded revenue of $7.6 million related to all seven of our released films as compared to $3.0 million in the prior year quarter. The current quarter results included $3.8 million of revenue associated with our latest film, Legendary. For our first six film projects, we participate in revenues generated by the distribution of these films after the print, advertising and distribution costs incurred by our partners have been recouped and the results have been reported to us. In September we released our latest film, Legendary, under our revised film strategy. This strategy entails self-distribution and marketing of films. Under this new model, we reflect a film’s gross receipts and its associated distribution and advertising costs in our results. In addition, the change in distribution results in earlier recognition of revenue and expenses relative to initial release of the film as compared to our previous model. As a result of the timing of Legendary’s distribution and advertising expenses, we have recorded a $0.6 million loss for Studios in the current quarter.

    Profit Contribution (Net revenues less cost of revenues)

    Profit contribution decreased to $47.8 million in the current quarter as compared to $51.2 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting lower revenue across our business segments and a loss in our WWE Studios segment, which more than offset a $2.6 million net increase in production tax credits, recorded in cost of revenues. Gross profit contribution margin decreased to approximately 44% as compared to 46% in the prior year quarter, primarily driven by the performance of our film business, which reflected the recognition of marketing costs under our new self-distribution model. Excluding the impact of production tax credits, Adjusted Profit contribution declined to $43.8 million in the current quarter as compared to $49.8 million in the prior year quarter and Adjusted profit margins declined to 40% as compared to 45% in the prior year quarter.

    Selling, general and administrative expenses

    SG&A expenses were $24.3 million for the current quarter as compared to $33.1 million in the prior year quarter, led by decreases in staff-related expenses, predominantly accrued management incentive compensation, and to a lesser extent lower legal and professional fees and reserves for bad debt. Excluding the impact of production tax credits, Adjusted SG&A expenses declined to $26.4 million in the current quarter as compared to $34.2 million in the prior year quarter.

    Depreciation and amortization

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

    EBITDA

    EBITDA was approximately $23.5 million in the current quarter as compared to $18.1 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting a $3.6 million net impact from production tax credits and SG&A cost savings. Excluding the impact of production tax credits, Adjusted EBITDA was approximately $17.4 million in the current quarter as compared to $15.6 million in the prior year quarter.

    Investment and Other (Expense) Income

    The decline in investment income of $0.2 million in the current quarter reflected lower average investment balances and average interest rates. Other income was $0.9 million, as compared to $0.2 million in the prior year quarter, reflecting realized foreign exchange gains and losses and the revaluation of warrants held in certain licensees. During the quarter, we recorded a $0.3 million gain relating to the revaluation of our warrants as compared to a $0.1 million loss in the prior year quarter.

    Effective tax rate

    The current quarter effective tax rate was 34% and reflects benefits due to the increased Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 199 deduction rate on qualified production activity income and the recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits. The prior year effective tax rate was 42% and was negatively impacted by differences between our tax returns and our estimated tax provision.

    Summary Results for the Nine Months Ended

    Total revenues through the nine months ended September 30, 2010 were $355.1 million as compared to $357.9 million in the prior year period. Operating income was $67.8 million as compared to $59.3 million in the prior year period. Net income was $45.3 million, or $0.60 per share, as compared to $39.1 million, or $0.53 per share, in the prior year period. EBITDA was $76.3 million for the current nine month period as compared to $70.3 million in the prior year period. Excluding items that impact comparability, Adjusted Operating income for the current period was $60.1 million as compared $59.0 million in the prior year period. Adjusted Net income was $40.4 million, or $0.54 per share, as compared to $38.7 million, or $0.52 per share, in the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA was $70.2 million for the current nine month period as compared to $70.0 million in the prior year period.

    The following charts reflect net revenues by segment and by geographical region for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and September 30, 2009. (Dollars in millions)

    Revenues from outside North America increased 11% led by our Television and Licensing businesses as well as an approximate $2.8 million favorable impact from foreign exchange rates.

    Net Revenues by Segment
    Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    2010
    September 30,
    2009
    Live and Televised Entertainment $ 249.5 $ 251.2
    Consumer Products 75.4 77.0
    Digital Media 18.6 22.2
    WWE Studios 11.6 7.5
    Total $ 355.1 $ 357.9
    Net Revenues by Region
    Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    2010
    September 30,
    2009
    North America
    $
    256.4
    $
    268.6
    Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) 55.6 55.8
    Asia Pacific (APAC) 29.2 25.1
    Latin America 13.9 8.4
    Total $ 355.1 $ 357.9

    Live and Televised Entertainment

    Revenues from our Live and Televised Entertainment businesses were $249.5 million for the current period as compared to $251.2 million in the prior year period, a decrease of 1%.

    September 30,
    2010
    September 30,
    2009
    Live Events
    $
    78.0
    $
    79.6
    Pay-Per-View $ 56.4 $ 63.7
    Venue Merchandise $ 14.7 $ 15.2
    Television Rights Fees $ 91.3 $ 81.5
    Television Advertising $ 4.5 $ 5.5
    WWE Classics On Demand $ 3.5 $ 4.2

    Consumer Products

    Revenues from our Consumer Products businesses were $75.4 million as compared to $77.0 million in the prior year, a decrease of 2%.

    September 30,
    2010
    September 30,
    2009
    Home Video
    $
    26.3
    $
    29.0
    Licensing $ 39.4 $ 36.7
    Magazine Publishing $ 7.9 $ 9.9

    Digital Media

    Revenues from our Digital Media related businesses were $18.6 million as compared to $22.2 million in the prior year, a decrease of 16%.

    September 30,
    2010
    September 30,
    2009
    WWE.com
    $
    10.4
    $
    12.9
    WWEShop $ 8.2 $ 9.3

    WWE Studios

    We recorded revenue of $11.6 million in the current period related to all seven of our film releases, including $3.8 million associated with our latest film, Legendary, as compared to $7.5 million in the prior year period. In September we released our latest film, Legendary, under our revised film strategy. This strategy entails self-distribution and marketing of films. Under this new model, we reflect a film’s gross receipts and its associated distribution and advertising costs in our results. In addition, the change in distribution results in earlier recognition of revenue and expenses relative to initial release of the film as compared to our previous model.

    Profit Contribution (Net revenues less cost of revenues)

    Profit contribution decreased to $156.6 million in the current period as compared to $165.6 million in the prior year period, reflecting a reduction in revenue across our operations and marketing expenses to support our film business. In addition, total profit contribution margin decreased to approximately 44% as compared to 46% in the prior year period due to the impact of lower effective pricing and sell-through rates in our Consumer Products business. Excluding items that impact comparability, Adjusted Profit contribution decreased to $152.6 million in the current period as compared to $164.2 million in the prior year period.

    Selling, general and administrative expenses

    SG&A expenses were $80.3 million for the current period as compared to $95.3 million in the prior year period, led by decreases in staff-related expenses, including accrued management incentive compensation, as well as lower legal and professional fees and reserves for bad debt. Excluding items that impact comparability, Adjusted SG&A expenses were $82.4 million for the current period as compared to $94.2 million in the prior year period.

    EBITDA

    EBITDA for the current period increased to approximately $76.3 million as compared to $70.3 million in the prior year period, reflecting SG&A cost savings as described above, and a $3.6 million net increase in production tax credits. Excluding items that impact comparability, Adjusted EBITDA was $70.2 million for the current period as compared to $70.0 million in the prior year period.

    Investment and Other Income (Expense)

    The $1.0 million decline in investment income in the current period reflects lower average interest rates and decreases in realized gains on sales of investments. Other expense of $1.2 million in the current period as compared to other income of $0.3 million in the prior year period primarily reflects the impact of realized foreign exchange gains and losses and the revaluations of warrants. In the current year period, we recorded $0.9 million of foreign exchange losses as compared to gains of $1.7 million in the prior year period. In the current year period, we recorded a gain of $0.6 million as compared to a loss of $0.8 million in the prior year period relating to the revaluation of warrants.

    Effective tax rate

    The effective tax rate was 33% in the current period as compared to 37% in the prior year period. The decrease in tax rate in the current period was primarily driven by increased benefits from IRC Section 199 related to qualified domestic production activities and the recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits.

    Cash Flows

    Net cash provided by operating activities was $27.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 as compared to $92.8 million in the prior year period. This $64.9 million decrease was driven primarily by an increase in feature film investments and changes in WWE’s tax position. Our cash investment in films increased by $40.0 million, driven by a $33.5 million increase in film production spending and the absence of $6.5 million in film tax incentives as compared to the prior year period. Related to the current period spending, we anticipate receiving approximately $7.7 million of film tax incentives in future periods. Capital expenditures increased to $9.1 million from $3.6 million in the prior year period primarily due to increased investments in television production initiatives.

    Additional Information

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

    Note: World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. will host a conference call on November 4, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. ET to discuss the Company’s earnings results for the third quarter of 2010. All interested parties can access the conference call by dialing 888-647-2706 (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.

    World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company (NYSE:WWENews), 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, PG content across all of its platforms including television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing. 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, Chicago, London, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo, Toronto and Mexico City. Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:WWENews) 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, copyrights and logos are the exclusive property of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. 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; acceptance of the Company’s brands, media and merchandise within those markets; uncertainties relating to regulatory and litigation matters; risks resulting from the highly competitive nature of our markets; the importance of protecting our intellectual property and complying with the intellectual property rights of others; risks associated with producing live events both domestically and internationally; uncertainties associated with international markets; 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 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 significant and 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, including a waiver by the McMahon family of a portion of the dividends.

    World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
    Consolidated Income Statements
    (in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
    Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
    Sept. 30,
    2010
    Sept. 30,
    2009
    Sept. 30,
    2010
    Sept. 30,
    2009
    Net revenues $ 109,564 $ 111,254 $ 355,131 $ 357,873
    Cost of revenues 61,763 60,077 198,542 192,264
    Selling, general and administrative expenses 24,322 33,108 80,284 95,337
    Depreciation and amortization 3,211 3,578 8,461 10,954
    Operating income 20,268 14,491 67,844 59,318
    Investment income, net 524 704 1,504 2,495
    Interest expense (64 ) (82 ) (202 ) (261 )
    Other income (expense), net 899 168 (1,173 ) 300
    Income before income taxes 21,627 15,281 67,973 61,852
    Provision for income taxes 7,290 6,342 22,648 22,717
    Net income $ 14,337 $ 8,939 $ 45,325 $ 39,135
    Earnings per share:
    Basic $ 0.19 $ 0.12 $ 0.61 $ 0.53
    Diluted $ 0.19 $ 0.12 $ 0.60 $ 0.53
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:
    Basic 74,576 73,944 74,372 73,646
    Diluted 75,325 74,419 75,263 74,207

    World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
    As of
    September 30,
    2010
    As of
    December 31,
    2009
    ASSETS
    CURRENT ASSETS:
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 84,361 $ 149,784
    Short-term investments 95,367 58,440
    Accounts receivable, net 51,761 62,732
    Inventory, net 1,831 2,182
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets 34,039 21,721
    Total current assets 267,359 294,859
    PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET 81,021 84,376
    FEATURE FILM PRODUCTION ASSETS 57,301 37,053
    INVESTMENT SECURITIES 15,107 22,370
    INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET 170 276
    OTHER ASSETS 1,743 1,687
    TOTAL ASSETS $ 422,701 $ 440,621
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
    CURRENT LIABILITIES:
    Current portion of long-term debt $ 1,147 $ 1,082
    Accounts payable 22,218 21,281
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities 25,090 35,164
    Deferred income 22,281 14,603
    Total current liabilities 70,736 72,130
    LONG-TERM DEBT 1,922 2,790
    NON-CURRENT TAX LIABILITIES 11,475 17,152
    NON-CURRENT DEFERRED INCOME 10,293 11,528
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
    Class A common stock 274 257
    Class B common stock 465 477
    Additional paid-in capital 334,632 326,008
    Accumulated other comprehensive income 3,453 2,377
    Retained (deficit) earnings (10,549 ) 7,902
    Total stockholders’ equity 328,275 337,021
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 422,701 $ 440,621

    World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
    Nine Months Ended
    Sept. 30,
    2010
    Sept. 30,
    2009
    OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
    Net income $ 45,325 $ 39,135
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
    operating activities:
    Amortization of feature film production assets 7,014 3,723
    Revaluation of warrants (552 ) 802
    Depreciation and amortization 8,461 10,954
    Realized gain on sale of investments (55 ) (863 )
    Amortization of investment income 1,286 805
    Stock compensation costs 6,522 5,659
    (Recovery) provision for doubtful accounts (37 ) 3,115
    Provision for inventory obsolescence 1,530 1,745
    (Benefit from) provision for deferred income taxes
    (8,946
    )
    6,000
    Excess tax benefit from stock-based payment arrangements (2,723 ) (74 )
    Changes in assets and liabilities:
    Accounts receivable 11,008 (3,596 )
    Inventory (1,178 ) 366
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets (8,902 ) 12,615
    Feature film production assets (27,343 ) (1,496 )
    Accounts payable 937 2,859
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities (10,882 ) 10,025
    Deferred income 6,443 1,033
    Net cash provided by operating activities 27,908 92,807
    INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
    Purchase of property and equipment (9,070 ) (3,640 )
    Proceeds from infrastructure incentives 4,130
    Purchase of other assets (60 ) (92 )
    Purchase of short-term investments (88,343 ) (41,489 )
    Proceeds from sales or maturities of investments 59,035 45,586
    Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities (34,308 ) 365
    FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
    Repayments of long-term debt (804 ) (744 )
    Dividends paid (62,598 ) (61,605 )
    Issuance of common stock, net 961 864
    Proceeds from exercise of stock options 695 1,290
    Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation arrangements 2,723 74
    Net cash used in financing activities (59,023 ) (60,121 )
    NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (65,423 ) 33,051
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD 149,784 119,655
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 84,361 $ 152,706

    World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
    Supplemental Information – EBITDA
    (in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
    Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
    Sept. 30,
    2010
    Sept. 30,
    2009
    Sept. 30,
    2010
    Sept. 30,
    2009
    Net income reported on U.S. GAAP basis $ 14,337 $ 8,939 $ 45,325 $ 39,135
    Provision for income taxes 7,290 6,342 22,648 22,717
    Investment, interest and other income, net (1,359 ) (790 ) (129 ) (2,534 )
    Depreciation and amortization 3,211 3,578 8,461 10,954
    EBITDA $ 23,479 $ 18,069 $ 76,305 $ 70,272

    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 World Wrestling Entertainment Inc.’s performance or liquidity, determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
    Supplemental Information – Schedule of Adjustments
    (in millions)
    (Unaudited)
    Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
    Sep. 30,
    2010
    Sep. 30,
    2009
    Sep. 30,
    2010
    Sep. 30,
    2009
    Profit contribution $ 47.8 $ 51.2 $ 156.6 $ 165.6
    Adjustments (Added back):
    Production tax credits (4.0 ) (1.4 ) (4.0 ) (1.4 )
    Adjusted Profit contribution $ 43.8 $ 49.8 $ 152.6
    $
    164.2
    Selling, general and administrative expenses 24.3 33.1 80.3 95.3
    Adjustments (Added back):
    Production tax credits 2.1 1.1 2.1 1.1
    Restructuring (2.2 )
    Adjusted Selling, general and administrative expenses $ 26.4 $ 34.2 $ 82.4 $ 94.2
    Depreciation and amortization 3.2 3.6 8.5 11.0
    Adjustments (Added back):
    Infrastructure tax credit 1.6
    Adjusted Depreciation and amortization $ 3.2 $ 3.6 $ 10.1 $ 11.0
    Operating income $ 20.3 $ 14.5 $ 67.8 $ 59.3
    Adjusted Operating income $ 14.2 $ 12.0 $ 60.1 $ 59.0
    Depreciation and amortization (Added back) 3.2 3.6 8.5 11.0
    Adjusted Depreciation and amortization (Added back) 3.2 3.6 10.1 11.0
    EBITDA $ 23.5 $ 18.1 $ 76.3 $ 70.3
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 17.4 $ 15.6 $ 70.2 $ 70.0

    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 World Wrestling Entertainment Inc.’s performance or liquidity, determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
    Supplemental Information – Schedule of Adjustments
    (in millions, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
    Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
    Sep. 30,
    2010
    Sep. 30,
    2009
    Sep. 30,
    2010
    Sep. 30,
    2009
    Operating income $ 20.3 $ 14.5 $ 67.8 $ 59.3
    Adjustments (Added back):
    Production tax credits (6.1 ) (2.5 ) (6.1 ) (2.5 )
    Restructuring 2.2
    Infrastructure tax credit (1.6 )
    Adjusted Operating income $ 14.2 $ 12.0 $ 60.1 $ 59.0
    Investment, interest and other expense, net 1.4 0.8 0.2 2.5
    Adjusted Income before taxes $ 15.6 $ 12.8 $ 60.3 $ 61.5
    Adjusted Provision for taxes (5.3 ) (5.4 ) (19.9 ) (22.8 )
    Adjusted Net income $ 10.3 $ 7.4 $ 40.4 $ 38.7
    Adjusted Earnings per share:
    Basic $ 0.14 $ 0.10 $ 0.54 $ 0.53
    Diluted $ 0.14 $ 0.10 $ 0.54 $ 0.52
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:
    Basic 74,576 73,944 74,372 73,646
    Diluted 75,325 74,419 75,263 74,207

    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 World Wrestling Entertainment Inc.’s performance or liquidity, determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
    Supplemental Information- Free Cash Flow
    (in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
    Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
    Sept. 30,
    2010
    Sept. 30,
    2009
    Sept. 30,
    2010
    Sept. 30,
    2009
    Net cash provided by operating activities $ 2,959 $ 17,778 $ 27,908 $ 92,807
    Less cash used in capital expenditures:
    Purchase of property and equipment (2,444 ) (765 ) (9,070 ) (3,640 )
    Proceeds from infrastructure incentives 4,130
    Purchase of other assets (55 ) (60 ) (92 )
    Free Cash Flow $ 515 $ 16,958 $ 22,908 $ 89,075

    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.


  • WWE’s Internal Version Of Tuesday’s NXT Leaks Online

    A “rogue” version of Tuesday’s NXT show has leaked online – and WWE officials are said to be furious about it.

    The leaked episode features WWE’s production channel instead of the “announcer’s commentary” from announcers Josh Matthews and Michael Cole. The producer, believed to be Kevin Dunn, can be heard giving cues to people, using foul language and revealing intimate details as to how the WWE product is put together behind the scenes.

    A similar situation happened several years ago, when a video leaked online of The Undertaker and Paul Bearer rehearsing Paul Bearer being “buried alive” in concrete at the 2004 Great American Bash. The video exposed a side of the business that WWE works very hard to protect.

    The rogue version of Tuesday’s NXT broadcast has hit various video sharing websites, including YouTube, but the videos are quickly taken down at WWE’s request.

  • Barrett & Sheamus To Feud & Main Event Plans For RAW

    With WWE’s creative team working on storyline plans for early 2011, one top feud that’s being discussed is Sheamus vs. Wade Barrett.

    Barrett and Sheamus are two of the real success stories of WWE’s recent youth movement and the two men squaring off presents a fresh match-up that many are excited to see.

    Barrett is said to be “super over” with WWE management and the Nexus leader has been pushed as the RAW brand’s top heel, a spot that was held by Sheamus earlier this year. Barrett has followed in the foot steps of Sheamus, getting over and generating a ton of heat after top programs with John Cena and Randy Orton.

    As we reported here earlier in the week, there are plans for Barrett to continue feuding with John Cena until the end of the year and then move on to a WrestleMania feud with The Undertaker, providing the Dead Man is healthy.

    Internally, Barrett and Sheamus are now considered worthy challengers of Randy Orton and John Cena, an accomplishment WWE is quite pleased with.

    (Partial source: f4wonline.com)

  • Undertaker To Undergo Shoulder Surgery This Weekend

    To follow up on the news that The Undertaker’s shoulder has been causing him a lot of pain in recent months, we can confirm that the Dead Man is scheduled to undergo surgery this weekend to repair a torn rotator cuff.

    At this point, the main concern is that he is healthy and able to work in time for WrestleMania in April – which is far from a guarantee.

    When the injury first happened a few months ago and it became apparent that time off was inevitable, WWE planned for the Undertaker to lose a Buried Alive match against Kane at Survivor Series and then rest up after that. When the pain got worse, the call was made to have the Buried Alive match take place at Bragging Rights and get the surgery over with.

    As recent as last week, there was talk that Taker may continue to wrestle lightly for the next few months, wrestle at WrestleMania 27 and then take the time off but that has changed now that the decision has been made to have surgery.

    We should have a better idea this weekend as to The Undertaker’s recovery time.

    (Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

  • Shane Carwin Recovering From Successful Back Surgery

    UFC heavyweight Shane Carwin (12-1) is recovering from his back surgery, which took place on Tuesday. Carwin’s manager, Jason Genet, posted the following oh Carwin’s Twitter…

    “Carwin is out of surgery and in the recovery room. No complications during surgery.”

    Carwin underwent a foraminotomy — a procedure meant to relieve pressure on compressed and pinched nerves. Dr. Chad Prusmack used the procedure to target Carwin’s C5, C6 and C7 vertebrae.

    Carwin’s manager also posted the following…

    “Surgery went well. It took just under four hours to complete. The nerve damage was worse than the MRI showed, but they cleaned it up.”

    No word yet on how long Carwin will be on the shelf.