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NXT Eliminations, Another SmackDown Taping Tonight

– “Showtime” Percy Watson and Husky Harris were eliminated on NXT this week. Remaining are Michael McGillicutty, Alex Riley and Kaval, all of whom have been viewed as the ‘favorites’ for several weeks.

-WWE is taping next week’s Smackdown television show tonight in Fresno, California at the Save Mart Center. The dark match main event is once again Kane vs. Jack Swagger vs. Rey Mysterio in a Triple Threat cage match for the World Hvt. Championship.

– The WWE Raw crew will be in Honolulu, Hawaii tonight for a house show event. No matches are announced for the live event, but John Cena and Sheamus are advertised to appear.

– Last week’s episode of WWE Smackdown did a 1.6 broadcast rating and averaged 2,686,000 viewers.

– Luke Gallows wrote on Twitter yesterday that CM Punk will not Tweet anything until he has one million followers. Punk’s Twitter page “2ndcitysavior” only has around 8,400 followers, so don’t expect to hear from the Straight Edge Society leader any time soon.

WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2011 Videogame Preview (Pictures)

SmackDown vs. RAW 2011

THQ sent out a press release this week announcing several new features for this year’s installment of the WWE SmackDown vs. RAW video game franchise. SvR2011 is due out on October 26th.

THQ Announces Additional Key Features and Franchise Updates for WWE(R) SmackDown(R) vs. Raw(R) 2011

Simulation-Based Cornerstone of the Company’s WWE Videogame Portfolio Set to Deliver Destiny-Defining Moments, Best-in-Class Creation Tools and Ultimate Virtual Control of WWE

AGOURA HILLS, Calif., Aug 18, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — THQ Inc. today announced new gameplay details surrounding WWE(R) SmackDown(R) vs. Raw(R) 2011, the renowned simulation-based experience in the company’s World Wrestling Entertainment(R) videogame portfolio. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 will return to action with destiny-defining moments, best-in-class creation tools and the ability for players to have ultimate virtual control of WWE. The game is currently in development for the Xbox 360(R) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation(R)3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system and the Wii(TM) system from Nintendo, with a scheduled release date of October 26, 2010.

“WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 is on track to deliver the most incredible WWE simulation experience to date in our storied franchise,” said Danny Bilson, Executive Vice President, Core Games, THQ. “This year’s game will offer players a variety of intuitive new gameplay features, impactful upgrades, industry-leading creation and customization tools, as well as unparalleled freedom to experience their own virtual WWE moments in line with those seen weekly in WWE.”

Here are some screenshots from IGN.com:


About WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011

Having shipped more than 50 million units worldwide, the renowned WWE simulation experience and annual centerpiece in THQ’s expanding WWE videogame portfolio returns to define players’ ultimate WWE moments and give players even greater creative and decision-making freedom throughout their storied journeys within WWE.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 will empower players more than ever to define their gameplay experiences in a dynamic and ever-changing WWE. In WWE Universe Mode, a new addition to the franchise, gameplay scenarios will change based on player decisions, allowing for new rivalries, alliances, championship matches and more spontaneous WWE action in and out of the ring. Additionally, the popular, story-driven Road to WrestleMania(R) mode will return with significant updates and new storylines, including the ability to freely roam through locker room areas, select opponents, break into impromptu matches and fulfill destinies based on player choices.

A hallmark of the franchise, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 will deliver its largest offering to date of best-in-class creation and customization features. Players will have more creative tools than ever to customize their created Superstars, finishing moves, story designs, paint tool creations and more. Searching and sharing content will be greatly simplified through improvements to the highly regarded WWE Community Creations feature, which generated nearly 10 million downloads in its franchise debut.

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 will also boast one of the largest rosters in franchise history with more than 70 of today’s prominent WWE Superstars and WWE Divas. Each in-game model will feature new skin textures and movement technology, delivering the most authentic looking and moving WWE Superstars and WWE Divas ever seen in a WWE videogame. In addition, players will round out their virtual WWE experience with more than 100 match types, including Tables, Ladders & Chairs (TLC), Hell in a Cell and Money in the Bank, as well as an extensive number of new playable arenas. A brand new physics system will ensure all matches and object interactions look and feel unique, dynamic and unpredictable to capture the full essence and authenticity of WWE.

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 will also boast the franchise’s largest online feature set to date, including a robust downloadable content (DLC) plan slated to include playable WWE Superstars, WWE Divas, alternate ring gear and new arenas. Online access and the game’s first DLC package, which is scheduled to include WWE Superstar Chris Masters(R) (playable character), WWE Superstar Rey Mysterio(R) (“Dia de los Muertos” Halloween-themed attire) and WWE Diva Kelly Kelly(R) (“Devil” Halloween-themed attire), will be free of charge with the videogame through a back of manual code for first-time purchasers. Second-time buyers can also purchase the content via Xbox LIVE(R) Marketplace for Xbox 360 at an anticipated cost of 800 Microsoft Points, as well as on PlayStation(R)Network for an anticipated cost of $9.99. Additional DLC packages, as well as their suggested price points, will be revealed later this year.

For more information on WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011, please visit wwe.thq.com, facebook.com/WWEgames and twitter.com/WWEgames.

About World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company , 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, Tokyo and Toronto. Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. /quotes/comstock/13*!wwe/quotes/nls/wwe (WWE 14.02, -0.02, -0.14%) can be found at corporate.wwe.com. For information on global activities, go to https://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.

About THQ Inc.

THQ Inc. is a leading worldwide developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software. The company develops its products for all popular game systems, personal computers and wireless devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles County, California, THQ sells product through its global network of offices located throughout North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. More information about THQ and its products may be found at www.thq.com. THQ and the THQ logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of THQ Inc.

Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox Live, the Xbox logos, and the Xbox Live logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.

“PlayStation” is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Wii is a registered trademark of Nintendo.

THQ Forward-Looking Statements: The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the business of THQ Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as “THQ”), including, but not limited to, expectations and projections related to the release and features of the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 videogame, and are based upon management’s current beliefs and certain assumptions made by management. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, business, competitive, economic, legal, political and technological factors affecting our industry, operations, markets, products or pricing. Readers should carefully review the risk factors and the information that could materially affect THQ’s financial results, described in other documents that THQ files from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal period ended March 31, 2010, and particularly the discussion of risk factors set forth therein. Unless otherwise required by law, THQ disclaims any obligation to update its view on any such risks or uncertainties or to revise or publicly release the results of any revision to these forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. 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

WWE 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 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.

Daniel Bryan Blogs About His WWE Return & Independents

In his latest blog update, WWE superstar Daniel Bryan discusses his surprise return to WWE at SummerSlam.

“Even though I love the independent scene, being the surprise 7th member of Team WWE at SummerSlam was by far the biggest opportunity of my career. Coming out in the Staples Center and walking past The Miz to go fight with Nexus was an amazing experience and something I’ll never forget. And though I always feel I can do better, I was thrilled to be able to tap out two Nexus members before I was eliminated.”

He continued:

“I know I still have a long way to go to reach my dream and I still have many naysayers (mainly The Miz and Michael Cole, but there are others), but I’m thankful for all of you who have had my back during an uncertain period in my life.  The WWE Universe is unreal and I will work my hardest to try to entertain some of the most loyal people on the planet.  See you at the arenas!”

Daniel Bryan also urged fans to support their local independent wrestling promotions, where you can see the Superstars of tomorrow learning their craft.

Daniel Bryan will begin working RAW live events on August 28th in Wildwood, New Jersey in a match with John Cena and Chris Jericho vs. Nexus. He was originally booked for a NYWC independent show on that date in Long Island, New York. Before returning to WWE at SummerSlam, Bryan had been booked for several independent shows in the coming weeks. He will be fulfilling the obligations that do not conflict with his new WWE schedule, but won’t make that NYWC show.

Bryan has changed his Twitter name once again to Twitter.com/WWEDanielBryan.

Linda McMahon Comments On Lance Cade’s Death

While it seems a bit morbid to think this way, many wrestling and political analysts have questioned how Lance Cade’s death last week might effect the United States Senate campaign of former WWE CEO Linda McMahon.

According to The Connecticut Post newspaper, Linda McMahon was quick to distance herself from the tragedy.

McMahon told reporters, “I might have met him once.”

Linda said WWE can no more be held accountable for deaths of talents “than a studio could have prevented Heath Ledger’s death.”

“Who knows what causes people to have addictions and do what they do?” she said.

What do you guys think? Will Lance Cade death affect Linda’s campaign in any way? Should it?

RVD & Samoa Joe Updates, iMPACT! Preview, Styles Rips TNA

– As we reported here last week, Rob Van Dam will be taking some time off from TNA due to the company using up most of his contracted appearances. It’s worth noting that RVD is still advertised for the September 23rd TNA house show event in New York City’s Hammerstein Ballroom. Aside from that show, RVD is not booked for any other live events or television tapings.

– After being kept of television for a few weeks following a recent backstage blowup a TNA iMPACT! taping, Samoa Joe is set to return to TNA at Monday’s iMPACT! tapings. Joe was sent home several weeks ago after going on rampage backstage at an iMPACT! taping. Joe reportedly flipped out after Jeremy Borash announced that there was 30 seconds remaining in his match with Jeff Hardy. The match ended in a time limit draw and Joe felt the “time remaining” announcement gave away the finish for the match. (Source: PWInsider.com)

– WWE announcer and ECW original Joey Styles was recently asked his thoughts on TNA’s Whole F’N Show edition of iMPACT. Styles said:

“I watched the Whole F’N show highlights online. I’ve seen wood chipper victims who were less of a mess than RVD. Who books that crap?”

– Here’s a video preview for Thursday’s TNA iMPACT!:

Tonight’s Tapings, Celebs At RAW & Lots More News

– WWE will tape this week’s SmackDown and shoot tonight’s NXT live from the Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield, California.

Confirmed for tonight’s NXT is two Rookie eliminations.

No matches have been announced for SmackDown yet but the Undertaker will be appearing on the show and  Kane vs. Jack Swagger vs. Rey Mysterio in a steel cage is being advertised locally as the dark match main event.

– Celebrities at last night’s RAW included Joe Manganiello from True Blood, actor Raini Rodriguez and Jon Lovitz.

– Former WWE announcer Lauren C. Mayhew, who worked for the company briefly in 2009, was visiting friends at last night’s RAW in Los Angeles.

– The new issue of FHM in the UK has a story on Steve Austin. He says that he wants to do more action movies but would also like to try his hand at comedies. He also said he had a PhD in his other job and is looking to get to that level in his new one, but isn’t there yet. Regarding the talent level in wrestling today, he says it is fine but there is nowhere to go and learn.

– Announced for WWE’s Supershow on October 23rd in Winnipeg, Manitoba is Edge vs. Sheamus for the WWE Title, Kane vs. Big Show for the World Title and Nexus vs. Rey Mysterio & Randy Orton.

– Beth Phoenix will be appearing at the WWE developmental show on Friday, August 20th in Plant City, Florida. The main event that night will be a Texas Bull Rope match. Beth will also be appearing at the FCW show on August 18th.

Partial source: f4wonline.com

Cena Wins Battle Royal After RAW, War Games News & More

– The dark main event after last night’s RAW tapings in Los Angeles saw John Cena win a battle royal with Nexus, Team RAW and Team SmackDown. RAW and SmackDown eliminated Nexus first and the final three were CM Punk, Edge and John Cena. Punk threw out Edge and Cena eliminated Punk to win.

– For what it’s worth, WWE Magazine is currently running a poll on Twitter asking fans which pay-per-view they would like to see return. The options are King of the Ring, War Games, Halloween Havoc and “Other.”

On a related note, WWE is currently running a poll on their website asking fans what their opinions are on triple threat matches.

– WWE has once again added Daniel Bryan to the RAW roster page. Despite being kicked out of Nexus last night, Darren Young is still listed on the RAW roster.

– John Cena will be signing copies of his Legendary DVD on Sunday, October 3rd at Blockbuster in Dallas, Texas on Greenville Avenue. Cena will appear from 11am until 1pm.

*Spoiler* WWE Title Match For Night Of Champions

Warning: The following contains a *Spoiler* for next week’s RAW:

It was announced at Monday’s RAW tapings for next week that the WWE Title will be defended in a Six Pack Challenge at September’s Night of Champions pay-per-view.

The match will be WWE Champion Sheamus vs. Wade Barrett vs. Randy Orton vs. Chris Jericho vs. John Cena vs. Edge.

Here’s the official event synopsis from PPV provider iNDEMAND:

“On Sunday, September 19th, WWE brings you the one night of the year when every championship is on the line! Don¹t miss John Cena, Sheamus, Kofi Kingston, R-Truth, Randy Orton, Edge, Rey Mysterio, and all your favorite WWE Superstars as they battle for championship gold! Don’t miss “WWE: Night of Champions” on Sunday, September 19th, live on Pay-Per-View!”

… and the commercial:

WWE Introduces New Tag Team Title Belts (Pictures)

WWE has done away with the Unified Tag Team Titles and has introduced a new set of WWE Tag Team Titles after using the previous belt design for over 20 years.

On RAW,  Bret Hart presented The Hart Dynasty with new belts. Tag team champions will no longer carry around 2 sets of titles.

Check ’em out:

JR SummerSlam Blog: Bryan, Bret, Undertaker, Nexus

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog at JRsBarBQ.com with his thoughts on last night’s SummerSlam pay-per-view. Here are some highlights of what JR said about:

Daniel Bryan’s Return: “The return of Daniel Bryan was both a shocker and a very pleasant development on the PPV. The much traveled and highly skilled veteran made an impact on his few weeks of TV time prior to his release from the company. The MMA aficionado showed definitive signs of brilliance during his in ring time at Summer Slam. A very strategic maneuver by WWE to bring Bryan back into the fold and I’m anxious to see how Bryan evolves.”

The Undertaker’s Return: “The return of the Undertaker was a boost to the PPV. The Undertaker is one of the few, long term, incumbent stars WWE has on its roster and whenever the ‘Deadman’ is on a show it is a plus in my eyes as it relates to legit, ‘star power.'”

Bret Hart’s In-Ring Work: “Bret Hart kicking it up a notch was an eye opener. I don’t ever expect to see Bret on the road much or even back in the ring as a wrestler that often but what I saw in Los Angeles Sunday night really surprised me and in a very favorable way. Bret’s physicality and spring in his step was surprisingly good and I really enjoyed his time in the ring.”

Nexus: “Nexus is still extremely relevant in my eyes contrary to what some fans have said in emails to this site. Too many people are taking for granted the fact that these 7 are essentially rookies in WWE, have miles to travel before they sleep….as main event stars, and were placed into an extraordinary position being thrust into the main event at Summer Slam. I did think that Nexus would pull it out and upset Team WWE going into the show. I was wrong. But I do think that this faction has healthy ‘legs’ and can do just fine going forward. It’s easy for any of us to be a Monday morning quarterback but I like what Nexus has represented thus far and their upside. Nexus is in a marathon and not a sprint as the process to achieve resident, main event status still remains a multi year procedure.”

Visit JRsBarBQ.com for Jim Ross’ full blog and his great line of BBQ products.

Paul Heyman Says TNA Isn’t Ready For Him

In an interview with MMA Hour Live, Paul Heyman talked about the possibility of working with TNA Wrestling:

“They’re not ready for me. They’re not there yet. I kind of have self-justified my own interest in TNA as a network of stock and ownership. I left pro wrestling in December 2006 and I haven’t done one shoot DVD, one convention appearance, one cameo. I haven’t done anything on wrestling.”

Heyman confirmed that TNA has reached out to him many times in the last year but he didn’t take it seriously until Dixie Carter contacted him and offered him potential ownership points and stock, as well as potential side projects with Spike TV. He concluded though that they weren’t ready for his ideas, particularly using things from MMA to influence wrestling. He also said that TNA is not looking long term and only wants short term solutions and that they don’t have their own vision for what they want to be.

Heyman added that he would get rid of everyone over 40 in TNA if he was in charge, saying their place is to be used for promotional events, autograph signings, and video games, but not as the core, noting that TNA’s focus seems to be on former ECW guys in their 40s, Hulk Hogan, and Ric Flair.

“If you were over 40, I’d chop your f***ing head off. I want a guy who is entering the prime of his career and shape him and mold him.”

“Imagine if all they did the entire show was promote the Beer Money vs. Motor City Machineguns match and had Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan and the ECW guys saying they needed to see that match and said these guys are the future now. Then, if you put that match in the main event – as opposed to the middle of the card with no follow-up – and produce and present them as the main event. Then, if ‘you buy this product, this is the progressive type of presentation we are going to present to you.’ Instead, you have Hulk Hogan in his 50s thanking ECW guys in their 40s before the ECW guys are beat up by a group led by Ric Flair in his 60s.”

Melina Injury Scare, Triple H Talks About 2005 Brawl, WWE-BK

– New WWE Divas champion Melina, who just returned from injury, had a scare last night at SummerSlam where it appeared she had injured her knee. She wrote on Twitter today:

“Im still overwhelmed. Reading all these tweets from all of u. Thank u! U guys r the best. My knee is ok. Just a tweak. Thank U 4 ur concern.”

– TMZ.com caught up with Triple H over the weekend in Los Angeles at an event for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, which he is now working with. Triple H told TMZ that back in 2005 when WWE was overseas in England, the WWE crew got into a big brawl with a group of drunken kickboxers. Triple H says when the WWE superstars got back to their hotel, the kickboxers were waiting for them and wanted to fight. Local newspapers reported on the story in the days after the incident and wrote that the WWE superstars destroyed the kickboxers – which Triple H says is absolutely true.

– WWE sent out the following press release on Monday announcing that it has teamed up with Burger King for an in-restaurant promotion, beginning Monday, August 23 through Sunday, September 12 in close to 10,000 Burger King locations across the world.  Triple H, John Cena and the Undertaker will be featured on more than five million exclusive Superstar plush toys inside BK(R) Kids Meals.

“WWE is very excited to team with BURGER KING, a globally recognized brand that reaches millions around the world,” said Michelle D. Wilson, WWE Executive Vice President, Marketing. “WWE’s family-friendly product, which is seen in 145 countries, is a great fit with the BURGER KING brand.”

Adam Pierce Confirms He’s Done Booking ROH

Ring of Honor star Adam Pierce sent out the following statement on Monday, confirming that he is indeed stepping down as the head booker of ROH:

Oil and water don’t mix.

Cary Silkin gave me the chance to live a lifelong dream two years ago, and I will forever be grateful to him for having the faith in me to give me that opportunity.  I’ve never had a better boss, probably never will, and I’m glad to be able to call him my friend.  I’ve certainly never met a more generous person, and I wish him personally nothing but the prosperity that I believe he deserves.

Ring of Honor has always represented to me what the “future” of professional wrestling could be, and it is my sincere hope that through the continued tremendous partnership with HDNet that that “future” may one day be realized.

I have never been more proud to be part of a locker room, and I want to publicly thank each and every member of the ROH roster, contracted and otherwise, for working so hard with me to make this year a huge creative success.  You all allowed me to grow into a position that I was unqualified for, stayed with me every step of the way – low and high, and at the end of the day made the stories in my head come to life better than anyone else ever could have.  You are the most creative and hardest working locker room in the industry, and you all deserve more than what is available to you now.  I’m happy to have spoken to all of you in the last 24 hours or so, and I terribly wish that I was going to be with you all at TV this weekend.

I want to publicly acknowledge and applaud the efforts of David Lagana, who in my opinion deserves more credit and praise for his contributions to the company than he has ever received, and it is my hope that he continues to work with HDNet to produce the television product that he and I have worked so hard on since it began.  I give thanks to Adam Swift and Andrew Simon at HDNet for their network support during my tenure, as well as to Scott Ferrier and Andy Edwards – the unknown magicians that make our TV world go ‘round.  Thanks to all of our camera and lighting crews and everyone else that brought ROH to the television stage.  I will always appreciate the hard work you’ve done and what you’ve all made possible for me.

So many people deserve thanks now that this chapter of my life has come to an end.  Guys like Chris Maurer for all of his work on the creative end of things.  His written word helped to bring my stories to life, and his hard work in so many of the ‘not-so-glamorous’ areas of the company need to be acknowledged.  Bobby Cruise is more important to the ROH production than anyone really knows and I thank him for being my ‘right hand man’.  Wayne Fitzgerald and Mary Gage deserve credit for their stalwart efforts, making the music and lights do what we need.  Thank you both.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t publicly thank Jimmy Cornette for being the best mentor I could have ever asked for, and an even better friend.  If any man could have upstaged me and went over my head to do things his way, it was him, but to his credit he NEVER once did.  He stood by me and allowed me to be the boss, for better or worse, and I’ll always remember that.  I hope he can be the same for Delirious, who now finds himself in that very scary and exciting spot.  I wish them both nothing but the best; I’m sure we’ll cross paths again.

I’ve loved nearly every single second of my time with Ring of Honor, regardless of the capacity.  Perhaps one day I’ll be back again.  But if not, I am humbled and appreciate all that my time in the company has taught and afforded me.

The wrestling in Ring of Honor always has been (and in my opinion, always will be) second to none, and if/when the end truly does come for the company, the wrestling won’t be the reason why.  The way I see it there are two sides to the Ring of Honor coin:  The ‘creative/in-ring’ side, and the ‘business’ side.

The ‘water’ and the ‘oil’.

No matter how long and no matter whom does the stirring, they don’t ever seem to truly mix the right way.

Adam Pearce .

Tiffany Update: Her WWE Future, Partying At Playboy Mansion

WWE Diva Tiffany and Drew McIntyre were partying at the Midsummers Eve Party at the Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles last Saturday night before their argument at a Los Angeles hotel that led to Tiffany being arrested and later suspended by the company. Tiffany was hanging out with Playboy Playmate Roxanne Dawn.

The belief is that WWE won’t bring back Tiffany as long as her legal charges are hanging over her heard. Tiffany’s attorney has told WWE officials that he will get her off.

Here’s a picture of Tiffany partying at the Playboy mansion just hours before the domestic disturbance incident:

Celebs At SummerSlam, WWE Confiscates Signs, Daniel Bryan

– Some of the celebrities at WWE’s SummerSlam Kickoff party this weekend included Lou Ferrigno, Verne Troyer, Lauren Storm, Joe Manganiello of True Blood fame, former RAW host Clark Duke, Carmen Electra and Booboo Stewart of Twilight fame, who is also a TNA website columnist. Rapper and producer Jermaine Dupri was the DJ for the party.

– WWE was taking signs from fans as they entered the Staples Center for last night’s SummerSlam event. WWE usually takes signs before the show goes on the air in the crowd. WWE confiscated all Daniel Bryan or Bryan Danielson signs and had pre-made signs to give to fans in exchange for any signs they had that WWE didn’t want in the crowd. Fans noted that there was a big stack of Daniel Bryan signs that were taken at the door.

– According to our sources, the decision to bring Daniel Bryan back for SummerSlam was made a few days ago. The talk backstage last night is that Bryan will get a United States Title shot against The Miz at WWE’s Night of Champions pay-per-view.

– As of Monday morning, Daniel Bryan is the 6th most searched term on Google.com. (Google’s Hot Trends)

– Former WWE Diva Candice Michelle was backstage at SummerSlam visiting friends.

WWE Taping 2 Episodes of RAW Tonight From Los Angeles

Tonight’s episode of WWE RAW takes place from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.

Due to the fact that the WWE crew will be overseas in Japan next week for a live events tour, the company will tape next week’s episode of RAW after tonight’s show goes off the air.

While no matches have been announced for tonight’s RAW, NXT Season 2 rookie Alex Riley will be appearing tonight after winning a challenge on last week’s NXT episode.

We’ll likely get plenty of fallout from SummerSlam as well as some build towards WWE’s next pay-per-view event,  Night of Champions on September 19.

There’s a big 21-man battle royal being advertised locally as the dark match main event. The battle royal will feature the “Top 7 RAW Superstars,” the “Top 7 SmackDown Superstars” as well as the Nexus crew.  The SmackDown stars being advertised include Big Show, Jack Swagger, Kane and CM Punk.

WWE Website Spoils Daniel Bryan’s Return

The official WWE website spoiled a surprise set for tonight’s SummerSlam pay-per-view event as an article titled “Daniel Bryan Returns at Summerslam!” was posted before the NXT season one rookie’s return took place.

Here is the article in its entirety:

Daniel Bryan returns!
Written: August 15, 2010

LOS ANGELES – The Miz really milked it. The United States Champion and Mr. Money in the Bank thought that he had Team WWE by the short and curlies. Before the 7-on-7 Tag Team Elimination Match, Miz even insisted on John Cena and Bret Hart begging him to join them.

While Cena did appear on the TitanTron to address Miz, he wasn’t there to stroke The Cleveland Screamer’s ego. Instead, he informed the entire WWE Universe that Team WWE’s seventh man would be none other than a former member of The Nexus, Daniel Bryan.

A humiliated Miz, Bryan’s former WWE Pro on season one of WWE NXT, went apoplectic at being slighted and let everyone within earshot know of his dissatisfaction. As for Bryan, he had one word to describe the development: Awesome

Details On Bryan’s WWE Return, SummerSlam Dark Match

– The dark match before WWE SummerSlam in Los Angeles saw Evan Bourne defeat Zack Ryder with Air Bourne.

– Melina is the new WWE Divas Champion after defeating Alicia Fox at SummerSlam.

– Daniel Bryan made his return at SummerSlam, being the seventh member of Team RAW in the main event. Bryan replaced The Miz, who said earlier that he would join the team. Bryan was the last RAW member before Cena to be eliminated after Miz interfered in the match.

WWE did the best they could in keeping his return a surprise. Several people who were backstage at SummerSlam all afternoon had no idea Bryan was even there until he showed up. The first word about Bryan being there leaked around 8pm EST.

WWE has added Bryan back on the RAW roster so it looks like he’s back full-time now. Shortly after his appearance, the name “Bryan Danielson” was one of the top trending topics on Twitter.

WWE SummerSlam PPV Results (8/15)

WWE SUMMERSLAM Live Coveage
Sunday, August 15th, 2010

Welcome to our Live Coverage of WWE SummerSlam 2010 from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.

The pyro goes off. Michael Cole says the future direction of WWE is at stake tonight as he welcomes us to a packed house for SummerSlam. Cole has Jerry Lawler and Matt Striker at ringside with him.

We go right to the ring for tonight’s first match. Out comes the WWE Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler, with Vickie Guerrero at his side.

WWE Intercontinental Title Match: Kofi Kingston vs. Dolph Ziggler

We go right to the ring for tonight’s first match. Out comes the WWE Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler, with Vickie Guerrero at his side. Vickie takes the mic and tells everyone to excuse her. Vickie repeats herself but the music of Kofi Kingston interrupts her. Out comes Kofi to the ring.

The bell rings and Kingston wastes no time. Kingston punches and kicks at Ziggler before clotheslining him over the rope. Kofi tries for a suicide dive, but Vickie pulls Ziggler out of the way and Kofi crashes into the barricade.

Kofi is able to make it back into the ring where Ziggler brings the attack right to him with a big neckbreaker that’s good for a near fall. Ziggler locks in a sleeper hold, but Kofi is able to fight back up to his feet. Ziggler hits Kingston with a boot to the stomach and chokes him on the bottom rope, but Kofi is able to mount a comeback with a series of kicks. Ziggler is able to send Kofi face first into the middle turnbuckle for another near fall. Ziggler locks in a rear chin lock, continuing to work Kofi over.

Kofi tries to fight out, but Ziggler continues to put on the pressure, not letting up with the rear chin lock. Kofi fights up to his feet and pounds at Ziggler’s midsection, making his way out of the hold. Ziggler also missed a splash in the corner, allowing Kofi to catch his breath. Kofi hits Ziggler with a series of strikes before hitting a big dropkick. Kingston hits a Thesz press and punches away at Ziggler before going for the boom drop.

A series of pinfalls leads to a series of near falls, and Ziggler is able to connect with a rocker dropper to put Kingston down. Ziggler goes for the pin, but he still only scores a two count. Kofi goes to the top rope and connects with a single axe handle smash. Kingston goes for Trouble in Paradise, but he misses and Ziggler is able to lock in a sleeper hold. The Nexus make their way out to the ring and take out both Ziggler and Kingston.

Ziggler is sent out of the ring and the Nexus surround Kingston. Kingston tries to fight his way out, but the Nexus just lay waste to Kofi, taking him down and just continuing to beat on him. Young hits his weird full nelson slam, and Barret picks up Kingston for the fireman’s carry slam. Nexus lays out Kofi and stand over him.

– After the beatdown, Wade Barrett takes the mic and says that was just a preview of the beatdown they have for Team WWE later tonight. Barrett says they are currently looking for their 7th member but it won’t matter who they get. Wade says the RAW roster is so messed up they can’t compete with Nexus. Barrett says Nexus is the most destructive force in WWE history. Barrett says they are united behind a common purpose. Barrett says the WWE and the rest of the world needs to know, you’re either Nexus or you’re against us. Barrett drops the mic and Nexus leaves the ring as we go to replays.

Chris Jericho is backstage with the Miz. He says it pains him to say it, but they need Miz on their team, because of his unique talents. Edge is also there, he says Miz is the MITB winner, and he can appreciate that, but tonight is not about cashing in, it’s about seizing the opportunity. Jericho says if they accept their offer, it could be the biggest blockbuster announcement. Miz says he appreciates their offer, but he’s not sure he wants to make Nexus a priority, but he’ll let them know. Jericho and Edge wonder what Miz will do.

WWE Divas Champion Alicia Fox vs. Melina

Alicia Fox is the first woman out to the ring to almost no reaction, like pretty much almost all other women’s matches these days. Melina is out next, and she gets a much more favorable reaction, although she’s wearing a pretty goofy costume to the ring.

The bell rings, and both women stare each other down. They lock up and Melina is able to back Fox up into the corner. Another lock up and this time Fox locks in a headlock. Fox utilizes a headlock takeover and grounds her by holding on to said headlock. Melina is able to fight up to her feet and into the ropes to break the hold. Fox pushes Melina off and Melina responds with a single leg takedown. Melina puts Fox in between the second and third rope and comes down on her with a double knee drop.

Fox charges Melina and ends up driven face first into the mat. Fox charge Melina into the corner and Melina jumps up and over, looking to injure her knee, but she stops selling it pretty immediately with a big kick to Fox’s face. Fox works on Melina’s arm with a big knee drop to the shoulder before locking in an arm bar. Melina fights back up to her feet, but Fox is able to send her into the corner. Fox charges and she eats a boot to the stomach. a quick roll up leads to a one count for Melina. Melina hits Fox with a couple of strikes, screams, and hits a double knees to Fox’s back before connecting with a big facebuster. Melina covers Fox, and gets the three count.

Winner and NEW WWE Diva’s Champion: Melina

Josh Matthews is in the ring with Melina, who looks to be in tears. Matthews starts to ask a question, but LayCool is out to interrupt. McCool says Melina must be so proud of herself, and she also says Melina looks good, Not. Layla says they’ve knocked off every Smackdown diva, so tonight they wanted to come out and share in her special moment. LayCool make their way into the ring, and McCool says people will want to capture this moment because there are three champions in the ring. McCool says they have to Twitter this, but when they try to take a picture, Layla pushes them both away. She fights off both members of LayCool for a bit, but the double team advantage rears its head, and McCool and Layla are able to take down Melina. Fox tries to join in, but she’s thrown to the outside by McCool. Melina is thrown to the outside as well, where McCool kicks her head into the announce table.

CM Punk vs. Straight Edge Society

We get an update of the last few weeks and the events leading up to this match, starting with Show unmaking Punk and exposing his bald head.

The Straight Edge Society is out to the ring first, accompanied by Serena. Punk is wearing a shirt that says ‘I Broke Big Show’s Hand’.

Big Show is out to the ring next, and he’s got a big smile on his face, despite the heavily bandages right hand of Show.

The SES is outside of the ring as the Big Show gets in. Show gets the trainer to hop up on the ring apron and snip off the bandages from his hand. Show flexes his hand to show the SES how he’s doing. Punk lets Gallows and Mercury gets in the ring first, and Mercury charges Big Show, but gets swatted away. Gallows tries and the same happens. Punk regroups his troops, and apparently this match requires tags, but that isn’t enforced. Gallows and Mercury try a double team attack, but Show fights them right off. Punk is staying in the corner grabbing the tag rope. Show picks up Mercury and tosses him over the top rope and out to the floor on top of Gallows.

Punk tries his luck with the Big Show, and he catches a right hand and a big chop across the chest for his troubles. Punk rolls to the outside and Show follows him. Punk catches Show with a throat chop and tries to stomp on Show’s hand, but Show avoids it. Show tries to chop Punk again, but Show connects with the ring steps. The SES uses the opportunity to swarm Show, just laying into him and punching and stomping away before sending him back into the ring.

In the ring they go to work on both of Show’s hands before Gallows hits a big splash on Show. Mercury an Gallows hit elbow drops and Punk follows up with a leg drop. Punk lays into Show with forearms and boots and Gallows launches Mercury into Show before Punk does the same with Gallows. Punk tries to splash Show, but Show comes alive, fighting off all three members of the SES, splashing Mercury and Gallows in the corner before hitting a double clothesline. Show tries for a chokeslam, but Punk kicks Show in the face. Punk hits three high knees in a row, and he calls in Mercury, the two go to the second rope and hit a double bulldog. Mercury covers Show and is launched off at two.

Punk pounds away at Show, but Show is able to get to his feet and get Punk over his shoulders. He catches Mercury in chokeslam position, and Gallows comes in kicking Show in the face. Show dumps Punk over the top ropes. Slams Gallows down, and hits Mercury with a chokeslam, planting him on top of Gallows, while Punk makes his way to the top of the ramp with Serena.

Show pins Gallows and Mercury and gets the three count.

Winner: Big Show

Kane is shown backstage with a casket while melodramatic music plays. He says tonight he’ll shut Mysterio in the casket and end his existence. The camera pans over to Sheamus. Kane asks what he wants. Sheamus says the casket is far to large for Rey Mysterio, but it’s big enough for who he’s facing, because tonight just like St. Patrick driving snakes out of Ireland, he’ll be driving the Viper out of the WWE. Kane says no. Sheamus says that’s too bad, because if they were on the same page they’d be unstoppable. Sheamus says he’ll take Kane’s nickname instead, because he’s the real ‘Big Red Monster’. Kane laughs and says Sheamus has guts, which will be spilled on the floor if he ever interrupts him again. Kane stares off into the distance to end the segment.

Michael Cole begins to recap the events leading up to this match and the Miz’s music hits and he makes his way down to the ring with a mic in hand. Miz says the question is whether or not he should join Team WWE. He asks the crowd, and gets a bit of a mixed reaction. Miz says he could care less, because the opinion in the locker room is that he’s the missing link in the chain that’ll lead Team WWE to victory. Last week both Bret Hart and John Cena asked him to be on their team, and today John Cena came up to him and got down on his knees and begged him to be a part of Team WWE. He said that Cena said Miz is the only person that can see him. Bret Hart said he’s the real excellence of execution. Chris Jericho gave him a Fozzy CD, which he threw in the trash. John Morrison finally admitted to being the Marty Janetty of their tag team. Edge gave him Slim Jims, and R-Truth wrote him a crappy rap. Everyone admitted they needed him except the WWE Universe. He says the fans need to realize that he’s the only hope. He’s the future. He’s the US Champion, and a future WWE Champion. Miz says he needs to get to the decision, and it’s bigger than LeBron James’ spectacle on ESPN which will ultimately lead to the Laker’s losing the NBA Championship. Will he join Team WWE? The answer is…’Yes’. He will join Team WWE, and he will lead them to victory. The WWE Universe won’t be buzzing about the Nexus, or looking up to John Cena, they’ll be admitting to what Miz has been saying all along, that he’s the Miz, and he’s, no, no, no. He tells the fans they can’t say his catchphrase, they have to wait their turns, raise their hands and wait to be called upon. He asks for complete silence. He does the whole, I’m awesome thing again, and his music hits.

WWE Champion Sheamus vs. Randy Orton

We get the video package that we were promised a few minutes ago, as the hype machine for Orton/Sheamus begins.

Sheamus’ music hits, and the champion is the first man to make his way to the ring, to a bit of an apathetic reaction.”

Orton’s music hits, and the Viper gets a really nice pop as he makes his way out to the ring.

After formal ring introductions, and the bell, we’re ready for this one to begin. Both men lock up, and Sheamus is able to take Orton into the corner. Sheamus backs out and pounds on his chest. Another lock up and Sheamus pushes Orton into the corner again. Sheamus goes to pose again, and Orton kicks him in the gut, taking him into the corner and continuing to work over the midsection with kicks. Sheamus tries to fight back, but Orton takes him right back down to the mat with a big clothesline. Orton stomps away at Sheamus. Sheamus gets back up and tries to fight again, but he eats another clothesline, and another this time to the outside. Orton follows to the outside and he slams Sheamus’ head into the announce table before clotheslining Sheamus into the crowd over the barricade.

Orton breaks the count, and he tries to send Sheamus shoulder first into the ring steps, but Sheamus is able to reverse the Irish whip and turn it around on Orton. Orton rolls back into the ring where Sheamus meets him with a vicious series of stomps before pounding his head. Sheamus goes for a pin, but he’s only able to get a two count. Sheamus brings Orton up to his feet where he hits a wuick short arm clothesline. Sheamus hits a knee drop and goes for another cover and gets another near fall. Sheamus locks in a rear chin lock, but Orton is quick to fight back up to his feet. Sheamus goes for a suplex but Orton blocks and reverses it.

Sheamus rolls out to the apron, but when he comes in, Orton gets him in position for his rope assisted DDT. Sheamus is able to get out of it though, and toss Orton over the top rope to the outside. Sheamus follows and he stomps away at Orton before picking him up and slamming him back first into the barricade. Sheamus picks him right back up and slams him again. Sheamus rolls Orton into the ring and goes right for the pin but only gets two.

Sheamus lets Orton get back to his feet and he hits a big running forearm to Orton’s head. He goes for another pin and gets another two count. Sheamus locks in a modified rear chin lock, with what looks to be an arm bar, and he takes Orton down to the mat. Orton is able to fight his way back up to his feet where he fights out of the submission, only to eat a drop toe hold into the middle turnbuckle. Sheamus gets Orton in position for a reverse DDT and he brings Orton down over his knee. Sheamus goes for two covers, but gets two two counts. Sheamus connects with the Irish Hammer to put Orton down.

Sheamus goes back to work with another rear chin lock, but Orton is able to fight up to his feet. Orton connects with a back body drop to break things up and both men are down.

Both men are back up and Sheamus connects with a urunage backbreaker that’s good for a two count. Sheamus gets back to his feet and tries to psych himself up while waiting for Orton to get up. Sheamus goes for the bicycle kick, but Orton ducks it and Sheamus gets hung up in the ropes and falls to the outside.

Sheamus gets back to the ring apron and Orton springs into action with the rope assisted DDT. Orton goes for the RKO, but it looks like Sheamus pushes him off to avoid most of the impact. Sheamus gets to his feet and he goes for the Irish curse, but Orton fights out of it. An attempted RKO is fought off, and Sheamus is able to hit the bicycle kick, but Orton kicks out at two. Sheamus throws a tantrum.

Sheamus goes to the outside where he grabs a chair. He rolls into the ring with chair in hand, but the referee is quick to grab it. Sheamus and the ref fight over the chair, and Sheamus ends up pushing the ref to the outside. The ref calls for the bell.

Winner by DQ: Randy Orton

When Orton gets back to his feet, Sheamus tries to hit him with the chair, but Orton ducks it and responds with a low blow. Orton looks down at the chair and picks it up, to the approval of the crowd. Orton decides against it though, and he pulls Sheamus to the outside instead. Orton tears apart the announce table, slamming Sheamus head first into the table. Orton climbs on the table with Sheamus and once the Irishman gets to his feet, Orton smiles and hits an RKO, but the table doesn’t break. Orton looks pissed, as Sheamus rolls off the table.

World Heavyweight Champion Kane vs. Rey Mysterio

We get a video package to recap of the events leading up to this match.

Mysterio’s music hits, and he makes his way out to the ring to a large pop from this Los Angeles crowd.

Kane is out next, and the champion makes his way to the ring pushing a casket.

Kane opens up the lid of the casket to show that it’s empty, like some sort of magic trick, before closing it again.

The bell rings and Kane tries to attack Mysterio, but Mysterio kicks Kane in the leg. Kane responds by pounding on Mysterio in the corner, but he misses a splash. Kane is able to connect with a slam, but he misses a leg drop and Mysterio tries to mount an offensive. Kane puts him right back down with a couple of right hands, but Mysterio ducks through Kane’s leg and hits a low dropkick. Mysterio goes for a 619, but Kane avoids it and tosses Mysterio to the outside. Mysterio lands on his feet and baits Kane to the outside. Mysterio rolls to the ring, and then hits a dropkick and a senton taking Kane down to the arena floor. Back in the ring, Mysterio goes for the top and Kane grabs him around the throat, but Mysterio rakes his arm over the top rope. Kane catches Mysterio and swats him down to the mat before throwing him down and into the ring post before following up with a low dropkick.

Mysterio rolls to the outside and Kane follows, slamming him twice into the ring post before sending him back into the ring. Kane suplexes Mysterio into the top rope and he hits a big boot that sends him to the outside. Kane quickly rolls Rey into the ring and goes for the cover but he only gets a two count. Kane sends Mysterio into the corner hard, and Mysterio goes down. Kane goes for the cover, but again only gets two. Kane picks Mysterio up into a bear hug and works over Mysterio’s ribs.

Mysterio fights out of the submission with a couple of strikes to Kane’s head, but he jumps right back into another bear hug. Rey elbows Kane in the head, and he’s able to get into sunset flip position, but Kane doesn’t budge. He picks Mysterio up and eats a dropkick. Mysterio is able to hit a headscissors, and goes for another 619, but Kane retaliates with a clothesline that’s good for a near fall. Kane tosses Mysterio out to the floor where he lands with a pretty sick thud.

Mysterio is able to beat the count and get to the apron, but when he tries to springboard into the ring, Kane catches him with a big boot that sends him right back out to the floor. Kane follows to the outside, but he eats a drop toe hold that sends him face first into the barricade. Both men head back into the ring and Mysterio heads to the top where he hits a diving head butt from the top. Kane comes right back with a big tilt a whirl backbreaker that’s good for a near fall.

Another backbreaker from Kane, and this time he stretches Mysterio across his knee. Mysterio fights out of it with knee’s to Kane’s head, but he runs right into a sidewalk slam and another near fall from Kane. Kane makes his way to the top turnbuckle, but Mysterio catches him and crotches him on the top. Mysterio goes to the top and he tries for a hurricarana, but Kane hangs on and Mysterio crashes to the mat. Kane goes for the clothesline from the top, but Mysterio moves and hits a big tilt a whirl slot drop and both men are down.

Rey hits a seated senton from the top on Kane, and when he gets caught, he counters with a tilt a whirl DDT to put Kane down again. Rey hits a leg drop to the back of Kane’s head and hits a giant kick to Kane’s head, but it’s still not enough to keep Kane down for a three count. Mysterio goes to the top rope, but he leaps right into a big right hand from Kane, that’s good for a near fall. Kane looks over at the casket and he opens it and it’s still empty. Kane goes for the chokeslam, but Mysterio fights out and almost hits a 619, but Kane is able to push him down into the casket. Rey fights Kane off and hits a springboard dropkick, trying for the 619 again. Kane counters, almost hitting a chokeslam, but another hurricarana leads to a successful 619. Rey is almost able to roll Kane up, but Kane kicks out and is able to hit a giant chokeslam. Kane covers Mysterio and retains.

Winner and STILL World Heavyweight Champion: Kane

Kane gets the mic and says he told Mysterio that he would pay for what he did to his brother, and Mysterio will pay with eternal suffering as hell consumes his soul. Kane says Mysterio is surrounded by darkness within the casket. He looks over at the casket and he opens it, another times it’s empty and the crows is disappointed. Mysterio fights Kane off and Kane slams the casket closed. He hits Mysterio with two more chokeslams, which he follows up with a tombstone piledriver. Kane drags Mysterio over to the casket, but the Undertaker is there this time. Kane is shocked as Taker sits up.

Taker gets into the ring and the crowd is going nuts. Kane looks nervous. The brothers are having a stare down. Taker looks pretty rough. Kane points at Mysterio, and Taker walks over to him, kneeling down, and asking if Mysterio’s ever heard of an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. He says before he makes things right, he asks why Rey did it. I can’t hear what Rey said at all, but Taker says he believes him. He grabs Rey around the throat and picks him up to his feet where he lets go of him. He makes the throat cutting motion, but then turns around to look at Kane. Taker points at Kane and grabs him around the throat. Kane smiles and grabs Taker around his throat. Kane overpowers the Undertaker and gets him up for a tombstone piledriver, which plants Taker. Kane hits his pyro, and the music as well, and he stares down at his brother.

Nexus is shown walking to the ring, and they cut away to show a video package that shows the events leading up to this match, including the Nexus running wild all over Raw, and Cena putting together his own team.

John Cena’s music hits, and he’s the first man out for Team WWE, as it looks like they’ll all get seperate entrances to stretch out this fairly thin PPV. He gets a big pop as he makes his way about halfway down to the ring. Edge is the next man out, and he also gets a pretty big pop.

R-Truth is the next man out for Team WWE and he joins his teammates. Chris Jericho is out fourth for his team and he also gets a nice reaction from the crowd.

John Morrison is out next for his time, and surprisingly he doesn’t get his usual slo-mo entrance. Bret Hart is out sixth for his team and he gets one of the biggest pops of the night. Hart definitely doesn’t look like he’ll be doing too much in the ring tonight though. Miz is out last foe his team, but Cena gets on the mic and says wait a second, Miz is too late. Cena says they realized how important this match was, and they couldn’t wait for someone to decide the day of SS, so they found someone for the match, and it’s not Miz, it’s someone that hates the Nexus as much as them, it’s DANIEL BRYAN!

Nexus are freaked out that Bryan is back. Bryan and Young start things off for their teams, and Bryan is able to take Young over with a kitchen sink and he follows up with a series of kicks to the back. Huge Daniel Bryan chants. Bryan locks in a guillotine and a crossface and forces Young to tap out and calls out another member of Nexus.Darren Young is eliminated.

Bryan kicks Justin Gabriel in the chest and tags in Jericho who hits a big belly to back suplex. Jericho tags in Truth who comes in and hits Gabriel with a seires of right hands. Truth hits a back kick to Gabriels face and connects with a crazy stunner suplex that’s good for a near fall.

Gabriel is able to tag out to Tarver who comes in and works over Truth with a combination of lefts and rights. The ref pulls Tarver off. And when Tarver tries to splash Truth, Truth avoids it and tags out to Morrison. Morrison hits a couple of kicks to Tarver’s face and follows up with a big flash kick. Morrison connects with Starship Pain on Tarver and gets three. Michael Tarver has been eliminated.

Skip Sheffield is the next man in to take on Morrison. Skip locks up with Morrison and he tosses Morrison away. Another lock up and he tosses Morrison down to the canvas. Morrison slaps Skip across the face, and follows it up with lefts and rights, but Sheffield responds with a big slam. Sheffield stomps at Morrison’s ribs before launching Morrison into the corner. Skip clubs Morrison across the back before sending him into the corner again.

Sheffield suplexes Morrison, taking him down to the mat again. Skip picks him up again, and hits another suplex. Another suplex from Sheffield, and this time it leads to a near fall. Sheffield goes to hit Morrison, but Morrison is able to fight back. Morrison catches a kick to the back of the head from Gabriel, and a big clothesline from Skip takes out Morrison. Skip gets the three count.

Morison has been eliminated

R-Truth is in and he eats a big clothesline from Sheffield. Another three count, another elimination.

R-Truth has been eliminated

Jericho comes in and he takes a big gorilla press slam from Sheffield. Wade Barrett makes the tag and he stomps away at Jericho for a second before tagging in Otunga. Otunga hits Jericho with a couple of rights before slamming him down and tagging Barrett back in. Barrett stomps on Jericho some more before locking in a submission.

Jericho is able to fight out of the submission and hit a single leg dropkick from the middle rope. Jericho rolls over to his corner, and Bret Hart makes the tag, as does Heath Slater. Hart pounds on Slater, even getting him in the corner and going to the middle rope. Hart rakes Slater’s face across the ropes before tagging him in the midsection. Hart looks pretty good. Hart picks up Slater and slams him before hitting an elbow drop. Hart hits a Manhattan drop and a big right hand to Slater. Hart locks in the Sharpshooter on Slater, but Sheffield makes the tag. Someone tossed a chair in and Hart uses it on Skip, resulting in a DQ. Bret Hart has been eliminated.

Jericho comes in and hits a codebreaker on Sheffield and he tags in Edge. Edge sets up and hits a big spear on Skip. Edge pins Sheffield and it’s 4 on 4. Skip Sheffield has been eliminated.

Slater tosses Edge to the outside, and when he pulls him back into the ring, he hits him with a right hand before tagging in Barrett. Barrett hits Edge with a head butt before standing on his throat on the bottom rope. Barrett picks Edge up and slams him head first into the turnbuckle before connecting with a big backbreaker that’s good for a near fall. Barrett locks in a rear chin lock.

Edge is able to fight out of the submission and put Barrett down to the mat and Edge tries for the Impaler DDT, but Barrett counters it into a neckbreaker. Otunga tags into the match and he picks Edge up, trying for a spinebuster, but getting an Implant DDT instead. Edge rolls to his corner and he makes the tag to Jericho. Jericho knocks down Otunga with a couple of shoulder blocks before hitting a running bulldog and a giant lionsault from about 3/4 across the ring. Jericho gets Otunga in the Walls, and forces Otunga to tap.

Otunga has been elimniated

Jericho takes it right to Heath Slater on the outside of the ring, slamming him into the announce table before sending him back into the ring and following back in with a flying elbow from the top rope. Slater dodges Jericho though and Jericho runs into Cena, knocking him from the apron. The distraction leads to a big move from Slater. Jericho is pinned.

Jericho is eliminated

Edge and Cena try to get into the ring ant the same time and the argument leads to a roll up on Edge.

Edge has been eliminated

Edge sends Cena off the apron and he and Jericho attack him on the outside

Justin Gabriel is in and he catches a big boot from Edge. Edge sends Gabriel into the corner and follows in with a spear. Sending him across the ring again. Edge picks up Gabrial and plants him face first down on the mat, and it’s good for a two count. Gabriel is able to catch Edge with a huge kick to the face, and it’s good for a near fall. Gabriel tags out to Slater, who comes in and stomps away at Edge.

Cena is rolled into the ring and he and Slater are legal. Slater pounds on him in the corner for a bit before stomping at him and tagging in Wade Barrett. Barrett tags Cena with a couple of rights and a big left that lays him out. Barrett sends Cena into the corner and follows in with a boot to the back. Cena begins to fight back, but he walks into a big clothesline from Barrett that is good for a near fall. Gabriel tags in and he kicks Cena square in the ribs before catching him with a boot to the face. Gabriel locks in an arm bar, but Cena is quick to get back to his feet and fight out of it. Cena tries for the AA, but Gabriel counters into a DDT.”

Barrett is back in the match and he wears away on Cena with a couple of right hands. Cena starts to fight back with a couple of right hands of his own, but he walks into a sidewalk slam from Barrett. Cena blocks a suplex from Barrett and he reverses it into a suplex of his own.

Heath Slater tags in and he prevents Cena from making the tag to Bryan. Slater sends Cena into the corner hard, taking him right down to the mat. Slater sends Cena into the opposite corner and Cena charges out both men hitting clotheslines.

Slater tries to prevent Cena from making the tag, but he’s not successful. Bryan comes in and connects with a big kick to Slater, and another series of kicks in the corner to Slater. Bryan avoids Slater in the corner with a backflip and he sends Slater to the outside with a running forearm. Bryan follows out with a big suicide dive. Bryan sends Slater into the ring and follows him with a missile dropkick. Bryan takes out the Nexus, kicks out of a roll up, and locks in a crossface, forcing Slater to tap.

Slater is eliminated

Miz comes from the back and whacks Bryan with his briefcase. Barrett steals the victory with a quick pin.

Bryan is eliminated

Barrett goes to the outside and rolls Cena back into the ring, tagging in Gabriel.

Gabriel charges Cena in the corner, but Cena avoids him and connects with a couple of shoulder blocks before hitting a side belly to back suplex and following it up with the five knuckle shuffle. Cena tries for the AA, but Barrett makes the blind tag, coming in and stopping the AA and hitting Cena repeatedly in the head before stomping away. Barrtt and Gabriel stomp away at Cena repeatedly, making quick tags in and out, continuing to stomp at Cena. Barrett finally tags in and lets Cena get up to his feet, only to hit a big boot to send Cena to the outside. Barrett follows out quickly and Gabriel peels back some of the ringside mats.

Barrett DDT’s Cena on the concrete. Barrett sends Cena back into the ring and he tags in Gabriel, telling him to go to the top. Gabriel tries for the 450, but Cena moves out of the way. Cena goes for the quick cover, and scores the three count.

Justin Gabriel is eliminated

Barrett comes in and is quickly caught in the STF. Barrett taps out, and this one is over.

Winner: Team WWE; Sole Survivor: John Cena

Cena celebrates in the middle of the ring while the fans get pretty loud. Cena celebrating ends the show.

Pictures Of Randy Orton’s Gun Collection

WWE Superstar and firearm aficionado Randy Orton posted several images on his Twitter account Saturday night showing off his recently completed gun vault, which he describes as a “summer long project.”

The images were taken down, but are still circulating online – check ’em out:

Backstage SummerSlam News, Linda’s Campaign, Cade

— There is not much happening backstage in LA for SummerSlam. The Undertaker is expected to play a role in the finish of Rey-Kane, and the story for the 7-on-7 match is being kept under wraps. It’s not likely that another match will be added as the tag match will have a minimum of 7 falls and likely will have 11 or more, meaning it will need over half an hour.

— During SummerSlam Axxess this weekend, Cody Rhodes beat Chavo Guerrero and The Hart Dynasty beat Luke Gallows & Joey Mercury. The autograph lines for Randy Orton was said to be three hours long.

The New York Post has an article on Linda McMahon today, with quotes from both Michael Benoit and Chris Nowinski. The story also says that McMahon and her opponent Richard Blumenthal have agreed to have three debates.

— Another story on Linda McMahon, which paints her in a positive light, is available at http://www.boston.com/

— At the All-Japan show today at Korauken Hall in Tokyo a ceremony was held in honor of Lance Cade. He was scheduled to work the show.

Partial Source: The Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Rumored Match For RAW, Danielson, Big Show, Jake

– A battle royal featuring 7 SmackDown! talent, 7 RAW talent and the Nexus guys is set for RAW tomorrow, though it is expected to be a dark match. We’ll keep you posted on that.

– Bryan Danielson cancelled his appearance for NYWC in New York last night. He cited a family conflict but said he would be at the August 28 show. Danielson has no bookings on a Monday night listed on his website. He also is not booked on Night of Champions night.

– An article on the Big Show is available at Torontosun.com.

– Satoshi Kojima defeated Hiroshi Tanahashi in the finals of New Japan’s G-1 Climax tournament, making him the first non-NJPW talent to win the tournament in its 20-year history.

– An interview with Nick “Eugene” Dinsmore is available at Courier-journal.com.

– An interview with Jake “The Snake” Roberts is available at Pojoslam.blogspot.com Jake talks modern wrestlers and how he is the only guy who admits to taking drugs while others have died without ever confessing to having a problem.

Major Heel Turn Discussed & Undertaker’s Returnton

– There’s been talk of a major heel turn taking place at tonight’s SummerSlam pay-per-view and the WWE superstar moving to the “dark side” may surprise you. According to sources who have been a part of recent WWE creative meetings, the idea has been brought up several times of John Cena turning heel on Team RAW during the main event.  Cena turning heel is far from confirmed, but its one of 3 possible scenarios being discussed for the finish of the main event. Cena turning heel has been brought up in the past, but it has not gotten this much consideration in quite some time.

– Several ideas are being talked about for the Kane vs. Rey Mysterio match at SummerSlam. We’ve reported here for weeks that WWE plans to have  The Undertaker appear on the show in some capacity. One idea under discussion was for a casket to be brought to ringside and at the end of the match when either Kane or Rey was about to be thrown in, Undertaker would come out and attack Kane to kick off their feud. There are plans for The Undertaker and Kane to wrestle at Night of Champions in September and then again at Hell in a Cell in October.

(Partial credit to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

Updated: New FCW Talent Including A Former TNA Star

WWE’s developmental territory has added 7 wrestlers to its roster, including former TNA star Consequences Creed.

Xavier Woods – Austin Watson, formerly TNA tag title co-holder Consequences Creed, and known on the indy circuit as Austin Creed.

Buck Dixon – West Virginia’s Shane Canterbury is the son of Mark Canterbury. Mark is best known as former WWE tag champ Henry O. Godwin.

James Bronson – Phil Friedman, a former IFL MMA fighter turned wrestler. He has a classic wrestler look that reminds me of the legendary  Joe LeDuc.

Fahd Rakman – Fady Madani, worked indies as Fady The Arabian Bull. Hailing from Patterson, NJ and having Syrian heritage, Fady was a main eventer for New Jersey’s IWF.

Roman Leakee – Joe Anao’i, son of WWE Hall Of Famer, Sika. Played DT for Georgia Tech before brief stints with the Minnesota Vikings and CFL’s Edmonton Eskimos. WWE hopes to have another natural from the legendary Anao’i family.

Ricki Vaughn – Came to FCW under the name Celeste. Vaughn was recruited out of Texas.

Bobby Dutch – Bill Carr from Northeast indies, primarily New York’s FTW Wrestling.

Former OVW champion Brent Wellington, Christina, the sister of WWE Diva’s champ Alicia Fox, and announcer Ashley Valence have all actively participated on FCW events, but have not yet been added to the online roster.

Thanks to FCW correspondent Nuke Graham

VIDEO: Steve Austin On “The Tonight Show” With Jay Leno

WWE Hall of Famer Steve Austin appeared on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” on Friday.

Austin was there to hype the release of his new movie “The Expendables” and spoke about his transition from pro wrestling to acting. It was a great appearance from Austin, who came across as relaxed and told some funny stories from his experience shooting the movie.

The other Tonight Show guest was actor Justin Long, who will be one of the guest hosts for Monday’s WWE RAW.

Here’s Part 1:

… and Part 2: