SEScoops

Author: Staff

  • WWE & 7-Eleven Hype Their New SummerSlam Ad Campaign

    The following was released this morning by WWE and 7-Eleven:

    DALLAS & STAMFORD, Conn., Jul 26, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — After success with its World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.(R) (WWE) promotion last year, 7-Eleven, Inc. roars back into the ring this summer as a sponsor of SummerSlam(R), WWE’s biggest pay-per-view event of the summer. The convenience retailer has beefed up this year’s promotion, running now through Aug. 31, with double the variety of cups and double the WWE Superstars. In addition, the updated program features new products and online elements, including the opportunity to become a masked WWE Superstar.

    WWE Superstars John Cena(R), Triple H(R), Rey Mysterio(R) and Undertaker(R) show off their best moves on four collectible, lenticular Slurpee(R) cups while Big Show(R), Kofi Kingston(R), Edge(R), Randy Orton(R), and WWE Diva Eve(TM) appear on five collectible Super Big Gulp(R) fountain drink cups. For more fan fun, 7-Eleven offers four collectible straws featuring the likenesses of the Superstars and product displays of WWE Magazine and DVDs.

    John Cena also has created a limited-edition cup for 7-Eleven’s cause-marketing campaign, Coffee Cup with a Cause. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Cena cups between July 16 and Aug. 31 will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. 7-Eleven has guaranteed a minimum donation of $250,000 to the charity.

    “7-Eleven fans love WWE, and vice versa. It’s a demographic match made in heaven,” said Rita Bargerhuff, 7-Eleven vice president and chief marketing officer. “Our WWE campaign last year was centered on Big Gulp drinks. This year, we’ve taken the promotion to a new level, both in-store and online, and we think this year’s rematch of the two brands will be bigger and better.”

    “Our continuing partnership with 7-Eleven has been a fantastic experience for WWE, our Superstars and fans,” said Michelle Wilson, WWE’s executive vice president of Marketing. “WWE is thrilled that 7-Eleven is able to help us celebrate SummerSlam by providing our fans with limited edition cups featuring their favorite Superstars and Divas.”

    The collectible Slurpee cups come with codes that can be redeemed for Slurpee Nation(TM) reward points at slurpee.com. Fans can go to slurpee.com/rewards to redeem these points for exclusive in-game prizes in THQ’s popular video game “SmackDown(R) vs. Raw(R) 2010,” or to enter 7-Eleven’s augmented reality that allows WWE fans to try on virtual masks like those worn by WWE Superstar Rey Mysterio. A web-cam is required for fans to try on Rey’s masks. Users can choose any or all of the four featured masks, take multiple screen shots and upload images to Facebook. Rey Mysterio appears in a 7-Eleven commercial that airs on USA and Syfy during WWE programming and at various WWE live events across the country.

    The featured Slurpee flavor during the six-week promotion is Barq’s Root Beer. Other products participating in the promotion are Slim Jim, the official meat snack of WWE, and 7-Select(TM) Crunch Cheese Curls.

  • Bret Hart Married Over The Weekend (Picture)

    WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart was married over the weekend to his fiance Stephanie Washington. This is the third time down the aisle for Bret.

    Stephanie Washington is a 27 year old woman from San Francisco, California who is now going to school up in Calgary. They began dating earlier this year.

    The couple is expected to spend their honeymoon in Hawaii. Since WWE will be taping the next 2 weeks of RAW shows tonight (due to the upcoming international tour), it’s likely that Bret and Stephanie will not leave for Hawaii until later this week at the earliest.

    Here’s a picture of Bret Hart and his lovely new wife Stephanie Washington from earlier this year:

  • Jeff Hardy Injured, Stacy Keibler Hangs With Samoa Joe

    – TNA star Jeff Hardy was injured at Friday night’s TNA Live Event from Bloomington, Illinois. Hardy suffered a hand injury during a Monster’s Ball match with Abyss, but was able to finish the match. He wrestled the next night, but was said to be noticeably protecting the injured hand during his match. Hardy is not expected to miss any ring time.

    – Former WWE Diva Stacy Keibler was one of the many wrestling personalities who appeared at the popular Comic-Con event in San Diego over the weekend, which is “the largest comic book and popular arts convention in the world.” Keibler noted on her Twitter page that she got to hang out with TNA star Samoa Joe and former WWE superstar Gregory “Hurricane” Helms at the show and posted this picture of them together:

  • iMPACT! Preivew For Thursday: Tag Team Cage Match

    TNA Wrestling will tape the next two episodes of iMPACT tonight and tomorrow night at the iMPACT Zone in Orlando, Florida.

    The following has been confirmed for tonight’s tapings, set to air this Thursday night on Spike TV:

    * Steel Cage Match: Beer Money vs. The Motor City Machineguns

    * Ric Flair will reveal the newest member of his “Fortune” stable

    * Tommy Dreamer and the ECW Originals will have an announcement

  • Updated ECW Roster For TNA Hardcore Justice, Dixie Comments

    – We’ve got an update on the former ECW stars that will be appearing at TNA’s upcoming “Hardcore Justice” pay-per-view, which will be a [another[ special “farewell ECW” show.

    At this time, the wrestlers confirmed to appear are Jerry Lynn (who announced on his website that he’ll be fighting TNA Champion Rob Van Dam in the main event), 2 Cold Scorpio, Sandman, Sabu, Johnny Swinger and Bill Alphonso.

    It’s confirmed that Lance Storm, Tajiri, Super Crazy and Amish Roadkill will not be appearing.

    Former ECW stars who are currently working in TNA scheduled to appear include Rob Van Dam, Tommy Dreamer, Team 3D, Mick Foley, Raven, Rhino, Stevie Richards, Al Snow, and Simon Diamond.

    Stars from the original ECW that are still active in wrestling include Shane Douglas, Terry Funk, Justin Credible, Axl Rotten, Balls Mahoney, The Blue Meanie, CW Anderson, Danny Doring, Kid Kash, Guido, Spike Dudley and Steve Corino.

    – TNA President Dixie Carter wrote the following on Twitter over the weekend regarding the PPV:

    “HardCORE Justice pay-per-view card looks amazing. Not sure who Tommy is going to announce. Stay tuned.”

  • Linda’s Campaign Getting Heat For WWE’s Eugene Character

    An organization called the “Mothers Opposing McMahon” (MOM), which opposes Linda McMahon’s campaign to become a United States Senator this November, is now attacking the former WWE CEO over the “Eugene” character that the company featured from 2007-2009.

    The MOM organization has posted a video on Youtube, which you can view here, that quotes Linda McMahon talking about the unique brand of entertainment that WWE delivers – followed by WWE television footage of Vince and Shane McMahon sliming and then beating down the mentally challenged wrestler.

    The video caption slams the McMahons for featuring “a character with developmental disabilities [who is] is violently beaten, humiliated, and verbally abused by Vince and Shane McMahon. The MOM organization claims to be “a grassroots group of Connecticut women working to build opposition to Linda McMahon’s Senate candidacy based on McMahon’s record as CEO of the WWE, where she marketed to kids graphic sex, brutal violence, and the degrading, abusive treatment of women to make herself millions of dollars in profits.”

    While the MOM organization has their hands full trashing Linda McMahon, another organization – the Fans United against Mothers Opposing McMahon (FU-MOM), is firing back at defending McMahon.

    Thomas Gidlow sent in the following:

    I have started a new Facebook page called Fans United against Mothers Opposing McMahon (FU-MOM). We are dedicated to debunk the myths and half truths that the mainstream media uses to portray the wrestling industry, in particular the WWE. We have singled out “M.O.M” but we are also going to go after anyone that uses stereotypes, 15-year old information, independent wrestling as a means to portray the entire industry, and anyone else that has no idea what they are talking about.

    We do not endorse Linda McMahon’s campaign or anyone else’s in Connecticut or anywhere else. We are not representatives or affiliates of either political party or any campaign. We are simply fed up with the lies and deceit used to depict the WWE and we’re doing something about it.

    We’re going to be providing videos, links, discussion, and more for anyone who feels as we do. We will also not hide from debate like many other organizations (such as M.O.M) do and we will be glad to talk to everyone and anyone across the ideological spectrum.

    Our Facebook site:
    http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fans-United-against-Mothers-Opposing-McMahon/140270009330160

    Our Mission Statement:

    Our mission is to dispel the misreporting of Linda McMahon’s tenure with the WWE, as well as the misreporting of the WWE in general, using the facts as they are – not by using slanderous rhetoric based on assumptions and myths. We are dedicated to reporting and posting information that is nothing but the truth. If you want shotty reporting and information based on ten years ago, then watch the mainstream media or join “Mothers Opposing McMahon”. We only deal with the facts here.

  • *Spoilers* WWE SmackDown Tapings Results For Friday

    SmackDown *SPOILERS*

    Credit to Prowrestling.net for these spoilers from tonight’s SmackDown tapings:

    Smackdown begins as Kane starts out the show celebrating the title win. He recapped his MITB win and cashing in on Rey Mysterio. Kane said he did it for his brother the Undertaker and brought the title back to the dark side. He vowed to not rest until he finds his brother’s culprit.

    Jack Swagger vs. Rey Mysterio in a 2 out of 3 falls match to determine the No. 1 contender was announced.

    1. Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes defeated Christian and Matt Hardy. Christian and Hardy had the advantage most of the match. Christian dove to the outside on Rhodes and McIntyre. Rhodes took advantage for his team. He tagged in McIntyre, who had a field day with Christian.

    Rhodes was tagged back on. Christian tagged in Hardy, who took out McIntyre. Hardy gave McIntyre a tornado DDT from the turnbuckle into a pin only for Rhodes to distract the referee from counting the pinfall. Rhodes and McIntyre ended up winning the match. After the match, Christian and Hardy shook hands. Katelyn said it was a “very, very good match.”

    Swagger was interviewed by Josh Matthews. He talked about how he will beat Mysterio and then go on to beat Kane at Summerslam.

    A LayCool promo started as they boasted about their win against Kelly Kelly on Sunday. They gave each other best friend necklaces. Teddy Long walked up and told Layla that she will be defending her title against Tiffany next week.

    2. Dolph Ziggler (w/Vickie Guerrero) defeated Kofi Kingston (w/Michael McGillicutty) in a non-title match. This was a pretty even match up. Both superstars scored some offensive moves throughout the bout. Michael McGillicutty got sent to the back due to Vickie Guerrero influencing the referee as Kofi was outside selling being thrown over the ropes.

    Kofi reentered the ring as Ziggler continued to take advantage. As Ziggler went for a leg drop, Kofi rolled him into a pin for a 2 count. Kofi regains control only to be distracted by Vickie Guerrero. Ziggler puts Kofi in the sleeper for the win. After the match, Ziggler poses over Kofi with the Intercontinental Title. Dolph tries to leave with IC belt, but the ref wouldn’t let him. Vickie comforted Dolph.

    3. Big Show defeated the SES Masked Man. Show unmasked him to prove once and for a that Joey Mercury is straight edge. Show put the mask on and then chokeslammed Mercury for the pin in a short match.

    Mysterio cut a promo hyping the number one contenders match.

    An Alberto Del Rio vignette aired.

    4. Rey Mysterio defeated Jack Swagger in a best of three falls match to become the No. 1 contender to the World Hvt. Championship. The match started as Swagger pushed Mysterio into the turnbuckle to take opening advantage of the match. There was a lot of back and forth action early. Swagger continued to work on Rey giving him a belly to back.

    Swagger remained in control of the match. He took out Rey’s knee on the turnbuckle. Swagger scored a lot of close two counts. He threw Rey into the ropes only for Rey to jump off the ropes onto swagger a two count. Rey went to setup the 619 on Swagger only to come short. Swagger put Rey into the ankle lock. Rey made it to the ropes. Swagger refused to let go and was disqualified,so Rey won the first fall.

    Jack won second fall by making Rey tape out with the ankle lock. Short match. Rey went for the 619 and Jack caught him.

    Swagger and Rey fought outside. Swagger threw Rey back inside the ring and continued on the offensive. Rey reverses the gut wrench powerbomb into a pinfall to get the pin and become number one contender for Kane’s title.

    Jack went after Rey after the bell. Kane ran down and took out Jack. Kane held up Rey’s hand. Kane left the ring and then returned and went to chokeslam Rey, who turned it into the 619. Rey ran away.

  • Bischoff Blog: Time Off From TNA, Hogan’s Back Surgery

    Eric Bischoff has posted a new blog on his official website explaining his time away from TNA this month, Hulk Hogan’s health following his recent back surgery, Batista doing MMA and more. Here are some highlights of what he said about:

    Taking Time Off From TNA: “The 4th is a special holiday for us as it is not only our favorite national holiday, but it’s also my wife’s birthday, (and now our new anniversary) as well as the anniversary of my fathers passing 10 years ago.  My friends and family from around the country have started coming out to our place in Cody as a sort of unofficial ‘friends and family reunion and it has become a big part of our lives over the last 10 years.’”

    Hulk Hogan’s Back Surgery: “Just hung up with Hulk. His recent back surgery seems to have gone well and for the first time since I’ve known him, it sounds like he is taking his doctors advice and giving himself some down time to heal properly.. I get on him like his mother sometimes, as every time he previously had a back surgery, the first thing he would do the minute he was feeling better was go down to the gym and see if the surgery worked by pushing weights around. His spirits are way up, he’s feeling great and looking forward to what’s coming up.”

    Batista Doing MMA: “Not so sure about Bastista’s move into MMA. Unless he has some amateur wrestling or legitimate kick-boxing background that I am unaware of, sounds like a quick payday, but not so much of a long term plan.  It takes years to develop solid wrestling skill as well as punching/kicking technique. At 40 years of age, it’s a hell of a lot of catching up to do when you are in there with fighters half your age who have been on a mat or in a dojo all their lives. That said…like Dave a lot and wish him the best.”

  • Video: Jim Ross, Austin, Heyman & Goldberg At UFC 116

  • Picture: The Rock, Steve Austin & Goldberg Together At UFC 116

    Wrestling icons Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Steve Austin hanging out backstage with Bill Goldberg at Brock Lesnar’s UFC title fight in Las Vegas from Saturday night:

  • The Wrestling World reacts To Brock Lesnar’s UFC Win

    As noted earlier, UFC Heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar scored a dramatic come-from-behind submission win over Shane Carwin at Saturday  night’s UFC 116 pay-per-view.

    Here’s what the wrestling world is saying about Lesnar’s win on Twitter:

    Jim Ross: “In brock’s locker room w/ austin, rock, goldberg & heyman. Amazing night. Brock’s face is a mess but he endured. Brock’s face was nasty but he was and should be proud of his effort tonite. Lesnar willed his way thru 1st rd. Carwin hvy hands. Lesnar & team heading 2 Minn 2nite. Brock’s new outlook on life is really amazing. His illness made him a better man & a better fighter. Great seeing Austin & Rock together after Lesnar fight talking old times & movies. Both those guys ‘felt it’ & never played role of wrestler.”

    Steve Austin: “Brock weathered a big time storm in the first round. Showed the heart of a true champion. He is THE MAN in the UFC. I am very proud of him. Thanks to Dana White and everyone at UFC for great seats at a great fight. Oh Hell Yeah!!!! As I have stated before-Shane Carwin is one of my favorite fighters. He showed a lot of class after the fight. I smell a rematch.  damn what a night…Brock makes a triumphant comeback…and drinks with Goldberg… Headed back to L.A. No hangover…but I can tell I had a few. I arrived. Raised Hell. now I’m leaving. Putting Vegas in my rear view mirror.”

    Paul Heyman: “Ladies and Gentlemen, @shanecarwin is one absolutely BAD motherf*cker!!! Yes, 3 exclamation points. But Brock Lesnar is the mother f*cking man!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Brock and I are going home 2 our families. I’m honored and humbled 2 be his friend.” Heyman added that he and Lesnar are working on a book together.

    Rob Van Dam: “CONGRATS BROCK! No surprise here. Now they know!”

    Joey Styles “Bet JR $1 on UFC Lesnar vs. Carwin and I took Carwin. OMG! Inspiring performance by Lesnar for many reasons. Can’t wait for the rematch.”

    Taz: “Congrats to my bud Brock!! Great job, ALL heart! Im so happy 4 him! Awesome job big man!!!”

    Howard Finkel: “Congrats to Brock Lesnar on his victory last night. For Brock, when the going got tough, the tough got going!!!”

    Diamond Dallas Page: “Brock is the Baddest SOB on the planet right now… Hands Down!”

    Tyler Reks:“Lesnar’s not human. I’m pretty sure he’s a T-1000.”

    Torrie Wilson: “Wow so proud of Brock! He’s hands down the biggest badass I have ever met..friggin great fight!”

    Shannon Moore: “Brock is the man. Wow congrats!!!”

    Michael McGillicutty: “Brock Lesner is the man! PERIOD! I’m happy for you buddy!”

  • Brock Lesnar Wins At UFC 116 & His Next Opponent Revealed

    UFC Heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar defeated Shane Carwin on Saturday night at UFC 116 by submission in the second round of the fight.

    Carwin came out strong in the first round, dropping Lesnar with a vicious uppercut and almost putting the champion away with a fury of ground and pound. Lesnar survived the round and came back strong in the second round, making Carwin submit from an arm-triangle choke.

    After the fight, Lesnar thanked referee Josh Rosenthal for not stopping the fight when he appeared to be in trouble. Lesnar said:

    “He hit me pretty good, and I don’t know, I ended up there on the ground. I just had to go into survival mode and stay busy. I really have to thank the referee for allowing that thing to go on. I wasn’t hurt. I thought if I just kept moving — I could feel Shane’s punches getting less and less — and I thought, well, if I can get out of here then I’m just going to exert a lot energy. I realized there was [not a lot of time left], so I just tried to stay busy. He’s a beast. He definitely won the first round [laughs].”

    Former WWE personalities Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Steve Austin, Jim Ross and Bill Goldberg were shown in attendence. Lesnar’s longtime friend Paul Heyman was also with Lesnar throughout the weekend.

    At the post-show press conference, UFC President Dana White announced that Lesnar’s next title defense will be against undefeated heavyweight Cain Velasquez. No date has been announced, but the fight is expected to take place later this year.

  • Morale Low In TNA, Update On Heyman Negotiations

    The “nice surprise” to TNA that Dixie Carter was teasing prior to last month’s TNA’s Slammiversary was supposed to be Paul Heyman, but a deal could not be reached. Tommy Dreamer was ready on standby in case Heyman wasn’t used and wound up appearing on the show.

    TNA is pushing hard to bring Heyman in by Victory Road. The overall feeling within the company is that Heyman is in fact TNA bound, but no deal has been reached yet. TNA is said to be willing to give Heyman anything he wants.

    Morale in TNA has been very low in recent weeks and many feel that the company needs a savior to turn things around, with Heyman being looked at as the best chance TNA has to survive.

  • News On A Batista vs. Bobby Lashley MMA Fight

    Former WWE wrestler Batista created a lot of buzz earlier this month when he announced to TMZ.com that he will be fighting for the Strikeforce MMA promotion and already had his first opponent picked out.

    The latest is that a deal still has not been reached between Batista and Strikeforce, but Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker confirmed the negotiations and brought up the idea of pitting Batista against fellow former WWE wrestler Bobby Lashley, who is currently under contract with Strikeforce.

    When recently asked about facing Bobby Lashley in the cage, Batista said he would do it, but he wants a few fights to build to Lashley. Scott Coker thinks if they can get Lashley vs. Batista on CBS with a good semi-main event then they can do big ratings.

    Lashley is still recovering from a knee injury that caused his most recent fight to be postponed. Lashley’s recovery is actually behind schedule and he will be out of action a bit longer than initially expected.

    In training for his MMA debut, Batista has hired a wrestling coach, a boxing coach and a jiu jitsu coach.

    Check Out: VIDEO of BATISTA Training For His MMA Debut

    Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

  • *Spoilers* SmackDown Tapings Results For Tonight

    SmackDown *SPOILERS*

    WWE taped this week’s episode of SmackDown on Tuesday night from the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Credit to reader Daniel Smeriglio & Wrestling News World for this report:

    * Jack Swagger opens SmackDown in the ring with a promo about beating Big Show last week. He brags about his victory. Big Show comes out and interrupts. He beats down Swagger but his jumped from behind by Cody Rhodes. Rey Mysterio comes in for the save.

    * Teddy Long announces tonight’s main event will be Jack Swagger vs. Rey Mysterio for the World Heavyweight Championship.

    * Kofi Kingston b. Dolph Ziggler

    * CM Punk is shown with his arm in a sling.

    * Matt Hardy is a special guest on The Peep Show. Prior to the segment, ladders are setup in the ring. Hardy is reinstated and it is announced that Drew McIntyre is out due to issues with his visa. Matt Hardy attacks Christian.

    * Cody Rhodes is shown looking in a mirror telling himself he’s dashing. He said his motivation for his attack earlier was the Money in the Bank match.

    * Kane vs. Luke Gallows (w/CM Punk)
    – SES attacks Kane and beats everyone up. Serena comes in the ring and begs Kane not to hurt CM Punk. A video is shown of Serena drinking at a bar on May 31st and being confronted by SES. CM Punk was with them hence he couldn’t have attacked Undertaker. Serena is left alone in the ring.

    * MVP b. Chavo Guerrero
    – Prior to the match Chavo gets on the mic and says he deserves a Intercontinental Championship shot if he wins tonight.

    * A video package for Ricky Steamboat’s new DVD is shown.

    * Kelly Kelly b. Michelle McCool via pinfall.

    * Rey Mysterio comes out and cuts a promo on his win at Fatal Four-Way. It is announced that Rey will face Jack Swagger at Money in the Bank.

    * Rey Mysterio & Big Show b. Jack Swagger & Cody Rhodes
    – Show & Rey get the win after Swagger gets disqualified for not releasing the ankle lock on Rey. After the match Mysterio sells his injury. That concludes this week’s edition of SmackDown.

  • TNA Pushing Hard For Heyman & Lots More TNA News

    – TNA officials have gotten more aggressive over the past week or two when it comes to signing Paul Heyman. Heyman has been offered the head of TNA creative job, but he wants even more control than that. Heyman reportedly wants to be what Dana White is to the UFC – the front man who has a ton of power behind the scenes and can overrule virtually anybody and have things done his way. Heyman feels the creative side of TNA needs an overhaul, but that creative isn’t the company’s biggest problem.

    – Earlier this week, TNA president Dixie Carter wrote on Twitter that Velvet Sky has signed a new contract with the company. We’re told the new contract is for three years.

    – One of the reasons TNA chose Daytona Beach, Florida for the Bound For Glory pay-per-view this year is because it will be easier to travel back to Orlando the next day for iMPACT tapings.  It allows the company to take the show “on the road” without going too far from Orlando.

    – X Division Champion Douglas Williams is moving to the United States full-time.

    – Eric Bischoff missed the iMPACT tapings this week because he was hosting an annual 4th of July event at his Wyoming home. Bischoff isn’t scheduled to appear at the next set of iMPACT tapings either but that could change.

    Sources: Wrestling Observer, prowrestling.net

  • Update On Hogan’s Back Surgery & TNA Booking Changes

    – It was reported here that TNA star Hulk Hogan was scheduled to undergo back surgery. Apparently Hogan didn’t have the surgery yesterday but is scheduled to go under the knife by the end of the week. We wish him the best and a quick recovery.

    – TNA fired creative team member Ed Ferrara last week. Ferrara, best known for his previous stints in WWE and WCW, had been Vince Russo’s booking assistant while in TNA.

    – Former WCW wrestler & booker Kevin Sullivan met with Dixie Carter when she was in New Jersey a few weeks ago. Sullivan expressed pitched the idea of him joining TNA’s creative team and has worked with many people already in TNA. It’s said that Sullivan has written out an entire year of booking for the company.

    Source: Wrestling Observer

  • *Spoilers* TNA iMPACT! Tapings Results For Tonight

    Credit to reader John Benoit & PWinsider.com for this report:

    Impact opened with an Abyss promo which I missed but it ended with Hulk Hogan coming out followed but Bischoff to restrain Hogan but ended up attacking Abyss. Abyss no sold it which then Hulk gave Abyss three chair shots which he no sold also. They led to Jeff Hardy coming out to give Abyss the twist of fate and Swanton to end the segment

    Motor City Machineguns vs. Ink, inc. Motor City Machineguns won via pinfall on Jesse Neal. Bubba was going to interfere but Devon cut off Bubba and they argue for awhile. then Devon comes in the ring and helps Neal to his feet.

    Bischoff came out and announced the main event as Jeff Hardy vs. Abyss with RVD as guest ref in the match

    AJ Styles vs Samoa Joe Joe wins via submission Styles fights with Kaz and Ric Flair afterwards and Styles wants Kaz next week. Kaz accepts which ends the segment.

    The next segment is the Pope’s return to the impact zone. Huge “Welcome back” chants for the Pope and huge Pope. Pope cuts one of his classic promos which he is great at doing. Pope says he is back in the game now and he wants to work his way to RVD. Just as he finishes, Kurt Angle’s music hits and he welcomes Pope back into TNA. Angle says at Victory Road, we have Pope vs. Angle and Angle says he must be victorious. he walks off and we head to commercial.

    During the break they bring up Cody Angle to the ramp and the fans chant Cody. Angle’s other kid is also here sitting next to Dixie Carter at ringside.

    Desmond Wolfe vs. Brian Kendrick. Chelsea still looks unhappy to be with Wolfe and leaves him mid-match again. Kendrick puts Wolfe in a submission hold and Wolfe taps out Douglas Williams was on commentary during the match.
    Jay Lethal calls out AJ Styles and Ric Flair to answer for jumping his brother last week. Matt Morgan comes out and says that Flair has asked him to be the first member of Fortune. Lethal hits Morgan and the match is on. The early part of the match is the typical Matt Morgan dominance. A couple of near falls for Morgan until Morgan misses his kick and Lethal begins his comeback. Morgan throws Lethal out and Hernandez sneaks in and low blows Morgan with the ref’s back turned. Lethal picks up the pinfall victory. Hernandez walks up the ramp as a pissed off Morgan looks at him. Lethal celebrates the win.

    Taylor Wilde vs. Madison Rayne in TNA Knockouts non title action During the match Tommy Dreamer, Raven, Rhino and Stevie Richards show up, again taking everyone’s attention for the match at hand. Rayne picks up the easy victory on Wilde only to get attacked by Love post match. The crowd doesn’t care they are to busy snapping pics of the ECW guys in the front row of the stands. During the break Stevie got in the ring and threw out some TNA DVD’s.

    We cut to backstage where some new Knockout in black [Note from Mike: I was told it was Sarita] is beating up Taylor Wilde for some reason and the ECW originals decide to head back to the backstage area.

    We go back to the big screen where Dixie Carter walks up to Sting in the rafters and says Hulk and Bischoff says he is a cancer to TNA and sting is suspended for 30 days. Of course Sting verbally assaults Dixie until Bischoff comes up there and has security take him out of the Impact Zone. Bischoff tells Dixie to hire a 24-7 bodyguard because Sting might go psycho now and he fears this isn’t over with Sting.

    Time for the main event. RVD comes out first with a ref shirt on. Abyss has a 2 x 4 with nails in it. Hardy takes control early before Abyss takes it outside and throws Hardy into the ring steps to take control. Abyss tries to use a chair but RVD takes the chair from Abyss. The crowd is into this match and is behind Hardy all the way, Hardy with the Swanton to get the pinfall and win. Abyss attacks Hardy and Black Hole slams RVD. Abyss was going to use the 2 x 4 with the nails but Ken Anderson comes running down with a chair and hits Abyss then turns to hardy and nails him with the chair by accident because Abyss ducked. Abyss hits the Torture Device slam on Anderson. That is probably where the shows cuts out.

    Post match, Anderson helps Hardy up and Hardy poses for the crowd and leaves.

  • Wade Barrett’s Status & WWE’s Plans For The Nexus Group

    – The situation with Wade Barrett’s work visa is said to be not as serious as it’s been made out to be. Apparently everyone knew the situation was coming as Barrett had been talking about it for weeks. He is expected to be back in the country as early as today and back on WWE TV as early as this coming week. There is still no word on Drew McIntyre’s return but it’s believed that he may be out for a bit longer.

    – WWE officials have told the members of Nexus to play the heel role while in public in front of fans. They’re not allowed to pose for photos or sign autographs and are wearing the ‘N’ armbands while out.

    – The decision has made that The Nexus stable will remain on the RAW roster and won’t be doing any run-ins on SmackDown. Most expect that this may change eventually.

    Source: Wrestling Observer

  • WWE SummerSlam PPV Poster & Synopsis

    Cable provider iNDEMAND has released the official poster and synopsis for WWE’s SummerSlam pay-per-view.

    This year’s show takes place on August 15th at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.

    Synopsis: Brace yourself for the biggest pay-per-view of the summer! WWE action slams into summer as John Cena, Triple H, Rey Mysterio, and all your favorite WWE Superstars battle for WWE gold and glory on Sunday, August 15th, live on Pay-Per-View!

    Poster:

  • Bryan Danielson Talks About His WWE Release, TNA

    Former WWE superstar Bryan Danielson has written a new blog with more details on his WWE release:

    “As with anyone who gets fired from their job, especially when they feel its unjust, I am angry. Very angry. But I can’t fault WWE for how they handled my release. My contract contained a 90 day no-compete clause in the event I was let go, yet the WWE has graciously allowed me start wrestling again on any show that’s not taped for television or pay per view.”

    Danielson speculated about his future following the completion of his 90-day no compete clause, including the possibility of wrestling for TNA:

    “As far as what happens after 90 days, nobody knows. I’ve “heard” that TNA is interested. There are petitions going around to get me back into WWE and the last several weeks there have been fans chanting my names at their shows. People have even brought signs showing their support. And though most of the signs get taken away and though WWE may not be listening to your chants or petitions, I truly appreciate all the support over the last several weeks. It is both overwhelming and heartwarming. But regardless of what offers come in, I am in no rush to make any rash decisions. I enjoy my freedom as much as I enjoyed the benefits offered by being in WWE.”

  • MITB Plans, RAW Guest Hosts Gimmick, Titus O’Neil

    – WWE creative is looking at having one of the two Money in the Bank winners cash their title shot by SummerSlam in August, reports f4wonline.com. This would be done so only one superstar would be carrying around a briefcase for the rest of the year.

    – On Friday’s SmackDown, 6 competitors will be announced for the World Heavyweight title Money in the Bank match. WWE’s website has confirmed that there will be eight participants in the match. The final two spots were planned for CM Punk and Drew McIntyre but Punk is injured and McIntyre can’t work due to his work visa expiring. No word yet on who will fill the two remaining spots.

    – WWE is reportedly losing interest in the whole RAW guest host concept. There’s been talk of only having one Guest Host per month or scrapping the gimmick entirely.

    – On Tuesday’s NXT show, Titus O’Neil was the first rookie to be eliminated from Season 2. Following the release, he wrote on Twitter:

    “Just want to say to EVERYONE that Zack Ryder is one of the BEST people in the WWE & he is well worth following. I really respect him. He is a good man.”

  • Beautiful People Breaking Up? Hogan Misses iMPACT! & More

    – TNA is planning for Velvet Sky to turn on Madison Rayne at Victory Road Rayne defends her Knockouts Title against Angelina Love at the event.  There’s talk that Velvet will team back up with Angelina for The Beautiful People. No word yet what will happen to Lacey Von Erich.

    – Hulk Hogan was not at Tuesday’s TNA iMPACT tapings because he is scheduled to undergo back surgery today, Wednesday. Dixie Carter, Eric Bischoff and Jason Hervey were also absent from the tapings, according to a backstage source. Dixie doesn’t always attend the second tapings and Jason Hervey is reportedly working on a movie. No word on why Bischoff wasn’t there.

    – At the TNA iMPACT tapings two weeks ago, Tommy Dreamer was showing off a potential new look backstage. Dreamer was wearing a singlet top, shorts and kick pads that gave him an MMA-style look. The potential new look for Dreamer received mixed reviews from those backstage.

    Partial Source: prowrestling.net

  • Mickie James Returning To The Ring, “Downfall” Ratings

    – Former WWE Diva Mickie James will be wrestling in New York City for Impact Championship Wrestling on August 2nd. Her opponent will be WSU champion Mercedes Martinez. It will be James’ first post-WWE match in the United States since leaving the company earlier this year. In July, she’ll be working 3 shows for the WWC promotion in Puerto Rico and 2 shows for the SMASH promotion in Japan.

    – The Nexus group’s theme music is “We Are One” by the band 12 Stones.

    – The ratings are in for Week 2 of Chris Jericho’s ABC game show “Downfall” and they’re not good. Tuesday’s show drew a 2.3 overnight rating with 4.1 million viewers. Week 2 was down from last week’s season premiere, which did a 3.1. With only 6 episodes taped and ratings on the decline already, the chances of ABC ordering more episodes after the initial run don’t look good.

    – FlashGameshows.com has an interview up with Chris Jericho, who talks about how he got the “Downfall” gig and what it’s like hosting a game show where contestants get thrown off the roof of a skyscraper.

    – If you haven’t seen Chris Jericho’s  new “Downfall” show, you can watch the first 2 episodes online at Hulu.com.

  • UPDATE On Wade Barrett & Drew McIntyre’s Visas

    To follow up on our earlier report regarding the work visa issues with Wade Barrett and Drew McIntyre -  we’re told at this point that WWE does not know when McIntyre will be back. Barrett might be able to return as soon as next week, but nobody knows for sure.

    According to a source, WWE creative was told at Tuesday’s SmackDown tapings to presume assume neither man would be back until SummerSlam in August. Up until now Wade Barrett had been the centerpiece of the new Nexus group on RAW. It is possible Barrett or McIntyre could both be back soon, but that was the initial word as of today.

    It should be noted that current WWE Champion Sheamus was signed by WWE around the same time as Barrett and McIntyre. The belief as of right now is that he is okay in regards to his work visa, but given the fact how things were handled with Barrett and McIntyre he could possibly be next. This is definitely causing major issues for WWE creative.

    Source: The Wrestling Observer