SEScoops

Category: WWE

  • Vince McMahon Announces “Stand Up For WWE” Campaign

    World Wrestling Entertainment is calling on WWE fans worldwide to “Stand Up For WWE” in a new campaign on WWE.com and social networking websites, including Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

    WWE invites fans to voice their support for the company because it has come under unfair and biased attack from certain politicians and media outlets. WWE will correct factual inaccuracies that have been reported about the company during this election season.

    “The nearly 600 full-time WWE employees, as well as its 140 Superstars, all work for one reason – to put smiles on people’s faces,” said Vince McMahon, Chairman and CEO, WWE. “The inaccurate media reports about our company are not only an injustice but an insult to our millions of fans worldwide.”

    You can also “STAND UP FOR WWE” on Facebook at www.facebook.com/StandUpForWWE and on Twitter at twitter.com/StandUpForWWE.

    Related VIDEOS: Vince McMahon, WWE Employees & Celebrities Stand Up For WWE

  • WWE Tough Enough Reportedly Returning To Television

    Fans of WWE Tough Enough are gonna love this one – the WWE reality show that ran from 2001-2004 and produced WWE superstars John Morrison and The Miz is very close to being resurrected.

    Deadline.com is reporting that the USA Network is close to ordering a new season of WWE’s Tough Enough show.

    The story notes that revival of Tough Enough came together separately from USA’s current efforts in charting unscripted programming and stems from its relationship with.

    Tough Enough, which features contestants competing for a WWE contract, aired on MTV for three seasons. It moved to UPN in 2004 where it aired for a season as part of SmackDown. It is expected to run in tandem with Monday Night Raw.

    Aside from John Morrison and The Miz, other notable cast members from the show include Josh Matthews, Matt Morgan, Christopher Nowinski, Maven Huffman and Nidia.

  • News On Hitman Shades, WWE Video Game Controllers, Batista

    — Mad Catz and THQ announced an agreement today to produce WWE branded video game accessories, .

    “World Wrestling Entertainment has produced many of the videogame industry’s most enduring and prestigious franchises, and we are thrilled to initiate this relationship with THQ to create a range of Arcade FightSticks and FightPads,” said Darren Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz. “We believe the spirit and excitement of WWE is a perfect fit for our range of market-leading fighting game controllers.”

    — WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart was on hand for the Maritime Wrestling Expo on Saturday in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Reader Ryan attended the event and noted Hart’s response to a query regarding WWE not merchandising classic “Hitman” shades upon his return to the organization:

    “During the meet ‘n greet with Bret Hart, when I was getting my Bret Hart shades (purchased back in 1996) signed, I told Bret that I was surprised they didn’t start making the Hitman shades again when he came back to WWE. In mid-signature, he stopped, looked up (seeming to lament), and said “They were going to, but we couldn’t find the people who used to make them.” I’ve not heard a reason for this reported anywhere before, as it seemed a no-brainer to sell an incredible amount of these cheap-to-produce items… but assumed much like his lack of return to the pink-and-black tights, that he was letting go of another piece of The Hitman’s past. Sounds like he was an active participant in the search for the old producers, and was disappointed that they couldn’t be brought back.”

    — The official WWE website posted the following video preview of former talent Batista’s guest appearance tonight on Chuck on NBC.

  • Chris Jericho Talks About Wrestlers Doing Outside Projects

    WWE star Chris Jericho, who is currently touring the UK with his metal band Fozzy, was recently interviewed by the UK Sun. In part 1 of the interview, Jericho spoke about other former WWE stars who have left the company to explore other projects in the entertainment industry, such as The Rock, Mickie James and Maria.

    Here are some highlights of what Jericho said about:

    Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s Hollywood career:

    “The Rock is a great guy, he’s a great actor, he was great wrestler — one of my favourites — but I don’t understand why he doesn’t want to come back to the show once in a while.”

    Why He’s Able to do Other Projects & Not Lose His Spot In WWE:

    “At the risk of sounding egotistical, I’ve reached a certain point where you know what Jericho brings to the table. You know the value that I have to the show, both on camera and behind the scenes in the locker room as an idea guy. So I think I can get away with a lot more. Plus I think it’s always been understood about Jericho is that there is another side to me. When I walked into the WWE I had a band, there’s always been stuff like that going on. If I was just some guy wet behind the ears in his first year in the business there’s no way I’d be able to get away with all this stuff.”

    We’ll post highlights from part 2 of the interview when its online, stay tuned.

  • JR Blog: Matt Hardy Leaving WWE, Brock Lesnar, ECW

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog at JRsBarBQ.com .. Here are some highlights of what JR said about:

    Brock Lesnar’s Fight This Weekend: “Brock Lesnar is reportedly at 265 as we speak so there will be no cutting weight for the UFC Heavyweight Champion for next Saturday’s eagerly anticipated title defense against undefeated Cain Velásquez. I see this as good for Lesnar fans because already being at the required fighting weight will prevent Brock from having to tweak his diet or training regime prior to the fight in Anaheim.”

    ECW’s Biggest Star: “Very arguable…very subjective…to me it was Taz in the ring but the MVP outside the ring was obviously Paul Heyman who captained a ‘pirate ship’ of eclectic personalties. Taz would have been the biggest star from ECW to hit it big in WWE if injuries had not derailed him in a WWE career that started with Taz tapping Kurt Angle in Madison Square Garden. I always thought Taz could have been a major player in the ring for WWE.”

    Matt Hardy Leaving WWE: “Here’s wishing Matt Hardy well as he navigates the next phase of his career. Matt will likely have some time to reflect on his career and intensely prepare for the next phase.  Matt had a great run in WWE where he gained notoriety and earned a fine living. Matt wanted to move on from WWE after being there for over a decade which is pretty amazing once one thinks about it. I remember hiring the Hardy’s back in the day and even remember that they designed and physically made their own wrestling attire. How many wrestlers can you picture working away at a sewing machine?”

  • HHH Assisting His Mother-In-Law, Orton Lands Magazine Cover

    — Video has surfaced of Triple H supporting mother-in-law Linda McMahon’s campaign at a stop in Norwalk, Connecticut. The former WWE CEO thanks him in the video for “for rallying the troops before canvassing this weekend.”

    To view the video, click here.

    — Randy Orton is featured on the cover of the latest issue of WWE Magazine, which depicts him breaking through a window.

    — MVP will be appearing at this Friday’s Hartford Wolfpack Game at the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut. The SmackDown Superstar will be promoting WWE’s Fan Appreciation Day at the same venue on Saturday, Oct. 30.

  • WWE Superstars Party At Daytona Beach (Pictures)

    Reader Marissa has sent in pictures of several WWE superstars and Divas partying at Daytona Beach …

    Randy Orton, Chris Jericho, the Bella Twins, Santino and the Great Khali were spotted waiting in line to get on the “slingshot” ride two hours before the recent “Raw World Tour” live event. Check out the Great Khali’s sweet fanny pack…

  • TNA Wrestler Announced For SVR, Raw Star Joins Twitter, More

    — THQ quietly revealed on Thursday that former WWE star Mickie James will be a playable character in its WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 video game, which is set for release in the United States on Oct. 26. To view her character profile, click here.

    Other featured wrestlers who parted ways with WWE while the game was in production include Shelton Benjamin, Mike Knox, Batista and Shawn Michaels.

    — Natalya confirmed on Twitter that fellow Hart Dynasty member David Hart Smith has opened an account on the social networking site. His account can be reached at twitter.com/HarryDHSmith.

    — A Six-Man Tag Team Match pitting The Undertaker, Rey Mysterio and Edge against Kane, Alberto Del Rio and Jack Swagger is being advertised for the Dec. 28 SmackDown television taping at the Blue Cross Arena in Rochester, New York.

  • McMahon Holding Weekly Classes, WWE Plugs Batista, Khali

    — According to a report on www.f4wonline.com, newly called-up WWE wrestlers as well as lower-card wrestlers are required to attend a weekly “promo class” directed by Vince McMahon where he instructs them on how to conduct promos. One person noted that the instruction varies from week-to-week as McMahon cannot make up his mind on what he wants.

    — The official WWE website is promoting former WWE Superstar Batista’s appearance on NBC’s action-comedy series Chuck this Monday at 8/7 CT.

    — The Great Khali was introduced Saturday as a contestant on the reality television show Bigg Boss, which is the Indian version of Big Brother. During an interview with rediff.com, the WWE Superstar explained why he took up the offer to appear on the program.

    “I took it up because my wife wanted me to participate in the show,” he said. “Plus, people have always known me as a wrestler or an actor, not as a person. Through this show, I will reach out to my fans and they will know me as I am.”

    He also stated he will miss his family while he’s away.

    “I will miss my wife; I am so used to her being around. She manages my work and everything. So I will miss her every moment. Plus, my parents and friends, as they have been always there with me,” he said.

  • HHH Announced For “One Night Only” Return At WWE Event

    World Wrestling Entertainment announced Friday that Triple H will return for “one night only” at the Supershow and Fan Appreciation Day on Saturday, Oct. 30 at the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut. It was not specified whether the multi-time champion will wrestle.

    Matches announced for the event include Kane vs. The Undertaker vs. Big Show for the World Heavyweight Championship, Randy Orton vs. Wade Barrett for the WWE Championship, Rey Mysterio vs. Alberto Del Rio, and a 16-man battle royal with the winner facing Dolph Ziggler for the Intercontinental Championship.

  • Jeff Hardy Takes Aim At WWE, WWE Site Removes TNA Stars

    — During an interview with the Daily Star, TNA World Heavyweight Champion Jeff Hardy railed World Wrestling Entertainment for their treatment of his brother Matt.

    “I’m not going to give WWE their props for the way they’ve dealt with Matt. He is such a giving talent, ready to do anything for them, and he’s been given the run-around. They’ve treated him like sh*t.

    “I think if he came here, you would see the happiest, most dangerous and exciting Matt Hardy you’ve ever seen. I hope that they let him leave and he shows up here any day now.”

    — The official WWE website has removed both Mick Foley and Mickie James from its Alumni site. Foley was recently added back to the section while James debuted last week for TNA Wrestling. It is company protocol to remove former WWE performers who appear for the rival promotion.

  • Title Match Announced For Bragging Rights – Updated Card

    The official WWE website announced following SmackDown that Kane will defend the World Heavyweight Championship against The Undertaker in a Buried Alive Match at Bragging Rights.

    Friday’s show saw Team SmackDown assembled as Rey Mysterio, Jack Swagger, Alberto Del Rio, Edge, Kofi Kingston and the returning Tyler Reks all win their respective qualifying matches. They will be joining Big Show for the WWE Bragging Rights Tag Team Match.

    Below is the updated card:

    WWE Championship Match
    Randy Orton (c) vs. Wade Barrett (with John Cena)

    Buried Alive Match for the World Heavyweight Championship
    Kane (c) vs. The Undertaker

    WWE Bragging Rights Tag Team Match
    Team Raw (The Miz, CM Punk, Sheamus, John Morrison, R-Truth, Santino Marella and TBA) vs. Team SmackDown (Big Show, Kofi Kingston, Tyler Reks, Alberto Del Rio, Edge, Jack Swagger and Rey Mysterio)

    Divas Championship Match
    Layla or Michelle McCool (c) vs. Natalya

  • WWE Invites First Lady Michelle Obama to Visit Headquarters

    World Wrestling Entertainment issued the following press release Friday announcing that Vince McMahon has extended an invitation to First Lady Michelle Obama to visit the company’s corporate headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut while she is in town this Monday.

    WWE® Invites First Lady Michelle Obama to Visit Headquarters

    STAMFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (WWE) today announced that CEO and Chairman Vince McMahon has extended an invitation to First Lady Michelle Obama for this Monday, October 18 while she is in town, to visit the company’s corporate headquarters in Stamford, CT, and discuss WWE’s corporate outreach initiatives. These programs include outreach to at-risk youth, support for military troops and their families and partnerships with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Muscular Dystrophy Association, The Young Adult Library Services Association and others.

    “Given President Obama’s previous appearance on ‘Monday Night Raw’, and WWE’s dedication to giving back to the community we welcome the opportunity to speak candidly with the First Lady and educate her about WWE’s initiatives that focus on children and families,” said Vince McMahon, WWE CEO and Chairman. “We hope to learn more from the First Lady about the important initiatives she is leading.”

  • Matt Hardy Comments On His WWE Release

    Shortly after it was announced that he was released by WWE, Matt Hardy began posting on Twitter.com/MattHardyBrand .. Here’s what Hardy wrote:

    “What’s up all? I hope today is treating u good. I’m excited, just heard the news an announcement I’ve been waitin 4 is happening shortly! :) ”

    “Thank God! :) I swear.. It was harder for me to get released then it was to get hired! This is ABSOLUTELY what I want, now I can be me!”

    “I wanna thank WWE for giving me an opportunity, & I thank all the people & friends that helped me there. But I HAD to move on to be happy.”

    “I wanna thank JR, who hired me, Michael Hayes, who taught me SO much, & Vince, for letting me make a living & learn from him for 12 years.”

    “While some of you make look at this as an ending-I promise you, this is THE MUTHAF*CKING BEGINNING FOR MATT HARDY! Now I can create change!”

  • Breaking News: Matt Hardy Released By WWE

    WWE has announced that Matt Hardy has been officially released from the company.

    The official statement from the WWE website reads as follows:

    “WWE has come to terms on the release of Matt Hardy, effective as of October 15, 2010. WWE wishes Matt Hardy the best in his future endeavors.”

    UPDATE: Matt Hardy Comments On His WWE Release

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has commented on the situation, writing on Twitter:

    “WWE has come to terms on the release of Matt Hardy. Know no details just that fact. Good luck to Matt. Probably best 4 all involved.”

    Over the past several weeks, Hardy had been documenting his interest in a WWE release in YouTube videos.

    Hardy is expected to join his brother Jeff in TNA Wrestling. Assuming the termination of his contract comes with the standard 90-day no-compete clause, he would be free to show up in TNA in January.

  • Many WWE Stars Frustrated, Edge Says He’s Close To Retiring

    Several WWE stars have privately indicated in recent weeks that they are contemplating leaving the organization—and the wrestling business altogether—once their current contracts expire.

    Edge, who’s current deal with World Wrestling Entertainment expires in two years, has been telling people that he may retire from the wrestling industry once it concludes.

    One company insider noted to Wrestling Observer editor Dave Meltzer that four other WWE stars have stated in recent weeks that they’ve completely lost their passion for wrestling, to such a degree that they vow to leave the business altogether once their contracts expire.

    A fifth wrestler claims he will leave WWE once his current deal runs out, but will continue wrestling elsewhere.

    source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

  • Bret Hart On RAW, The Rock On TMZ, Linda’s Poll Numbers Slide

    – Bret Hart is advertised locally for this Monday’s Raw, which takes place in his hometown of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

    — The Hartford Courant had a front page story this week about drug issues in WWE and Linda McMahon’s Senatorial campaign.WWE’s Medical Director Dr. Joseph Maroon is quoted in the article, saying, “We have no talent now on steroids.”

    — The latest Quinnipiac poll, taken before Tuesday’s debate, showed Richard Blumenthal’s lead over Linda up to 54-43%.

    — The New York Times today endorsed Blumenthal and said that he’s apologized for his Vietnam falsity, but that McMahon is not ready to take on matters like the war, the economy and other major issues.

    — A Texas steroids-education group had a conference call on Wednesday blasting WWE for their track record.

    – TMZ.com caught up with The Rock this week, who talks about the time he hit Mick Foley with 14 chairshots to the head in front of his kids. They showed the clip from King of the Ring back in the late 90s and the shots are brutal. You can check out the video here.

  • Evan Bourne Undergoes Surgery For Torn Rotator Cuff

    RAW superstar Evan Bourne underwent surgery on Tuesday for his torn rotator cuff.

    Bourne posted the following on his Twitter account:

    “Thanks for all the well wishes. My surgery was Tuesday, and I’m already the road to recovery! In the meantime, stay AirBourne! Peace”

    As previously reported, Bourne is expected to be for the remainder of the year while recovering.

    He was written out of WWE storylines on Monday’s RAW after a post-match attack at the hands of CM Punk.

  • Randy Orton Reviews Thursday’s TNA iMPACT! Show

    WWE champion Randy Orton wrote on Twitter that he checked out TNA iMPACT! this week for only the “second time ever” and shared his thoughts on the TNA product.

    “Samoa Joe can move. Miss working with (Kurt) Angle and Jeff. Coulda done w/o the JWoW segment tho. I enjoyed the backstage stuff for the most part anyway. Something about the realness of the conversations between some of the talent was really well done.”

    When a fan seemed surprised that Orton was praising TNA, Orton responded:

    “Who said that I do not like TNA? I surely didn’t. Never approved of the 8(sic) sided ring tho. Competition is a good thing.”

    Orton put over TNA TV Champion AJ Styles:

    “never met him. Can do some amazing things in the ring. IMO has alot to do with tna’s early success.”

    He finished with some comments about Ken Anderson, who was outspoken against Orton following his WWE release:

    “The only prob I ever had with Ken was him telling the Internet that I used my ‘pull’ to get him fired. Not tru, I have no pull.”

    In a 2009 interview with ESPN 540’s “Pro Wrestling Report,” Anderson said he and Orton became  “very good friends” in WWE before their relationship turned sour. At the time, he seemed to blame Orton for his WWE release:

    “The fact that he made such a big stink about supposedly dropping him on his head. He literally blew up in front of all the talent including Vince and Stephanie and began to lecture me about how I had to be careful and his health was very important. It just doesn’t make sense to me.”

  • Several Names Added To WWE Developmental & One Release

    The official website of World Wrestling Entertainment’s developmental promotion, Florida Championship Wrestling, has added two male wrestlers and two female wrestlers to its roster page — Kenny Li, Ron Myers, Sonia and Verity Thomas.

    Sonia, who’s real name is Su Yung, has wrestled for various independent wrestling promotions in the United States including Memphis Ladies Wrestling, LadySports and Glory. She signed a developmental contract with WWE in May and debuted last month in FCW under the name Vannah.

    Thomas is British-based women’s wrestler Vickie Skeeles. The 23-year-old was signed to a developmental contract in August and had recently debuted in FCW.

    Li is 27-year-old Texas-based independent wrestler Li Fang, who the company recently signed to a developmental contract. He bills himself on his MySpace page as “the first ever Chinese wrestler.” He has been wrestling professionally since 2006 and has appeared for numerous Texas-based independent promotions including Professional Championship Wrestling (PCW).

    Myers formerly competed as Kris Logan in Florida Championship Wrestling prior to being released last year. He was recently re-signed to a developmental contract.

    Meanwhile, WWE has released Rudy Parker (a/k/a Asher Knight) from his developmental contract. He was signed from Ohio Valley Wrestling in January.

  • Booker T Talks About A WWE Return, TNA’s Booking & More

    Busted Open with Booker T
    Hosts: Dave LaGreca and Doug Mortman
    Mondays and Wednesdays 2-4 PM ET
    Sirius 125, XM 241 (note: new channels)

    Here are some highlights of what Booker T said about:

    Whether He Would return To TNA or WWE: “I’m a free agent… It’s about making a phone call. I left on good terms. I’m pretty good friends with Terry Taylor. I left on good terms with Dixie Carter. But I don’t want to get back on that WWE schedule… I would be willing to do commentary. I’d be willing to work behind the scenes (with WWE).

    Why He Went To TNA: “I went there to make those young guys a lot better, guys like A.J. (Styles), (Robert) Roode, Black Machismo, and the list goes on and on… The Main Event Mafia could still be going today… The wrestling business is all about the young guys coming up and taking those spots.”

    TNA Rehashing Old Angles: “I feel the past should left in the past. You cannot recreate WCW. TNA was in a great position to move up to the next level.”

    Rumors of Him Leaving a Live Event and Not Putting Over Matt Morgan: “It was one live event, overseas, and there was not any security. The fans were throwing full cans of beer. I felt unsafe working in that environment… I did not want to put over Matt Morgan that night because I had never had a segment with Matt Morgan.”

    Visit Facebook.com/bustedopen for more information.

  • Names Under Consideration For WWE HOF, Plans For Pee Wee

    — Among those discussed this past week for induction into the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame were Bill Goldberg, Lex Luger and Ron Simmons.

    Also under consideration for induction into the Hall is that of the Four Horsemen. Company officials would prefer to induct the group as opposed to solely Arn Anderson. However, the group’s induction will likely hinge on whether Ric Flair re-signs with TNA Wrestling once his current contract expires early next year.

    WWE also has strong interest in inducting Sting into the Hall of Fame, though his availability hinges on whether he re-signs with TNA Wrestling for 2011.

    — WWE creative plans to have Pee Wee Herman and Superstars participate in “Pee Wee’s Playhouse” backstage segments when the comedian hosts Monday Night Raw on Nov. 1 in Nashville, Tennessee.

    — The Sept. 14 Friday Night SmackDown television taping at the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Michigan drew 5,059 patrons paying $201,690.

    source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

  • Show Added To Kane vs. Taker Mix, Update On Henry’s Brother

    — The Wrestling Observer Newsletter speculates that due to The Undertaker’s health, matches pitting “The Deadman” against Kane for WWE’s tour of the U.K. next month have been changed to Triple Threat bouts with the inclusion of Big Show.

    — In an update on the condition of Patrick Henry, older brother of WWE Superstar, Mark Henry, doctors have taken him off the medication that was keeping him in a coma and he is expected to be revived today. Henry had several surgeries to stop the bleeding and pressure on his brain caused by the stroke he suffered on Oct. 3.

    — Both Maryse and The Miz walked the red carpet at last night’s Jackass 3D premiere in Los Angeles, California.

    source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

  • Update On WWE Title Unification, Khali On Reality Show

    — There is conflicting discussion as to whether World Wrestling Entertainment will unify the WWE Championship and World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania XXVII. While it was a big topic of conversation a few weeks ago, a well-placed source is skeptical as to whether company officials will follow through with the idea.

    — It has been confirmed that The Great Khali will appear on the ongoing fourth season of the Indian version of television reality show Big Brother, Bigg Boss. The WWE Superstar will be introduced as the twelfth inmate when the show airs on Saturday.

    He (Khali) is known for his strength in the wrestling ring but, with this show, his fans will get to see a part of his life as they watch him eat, sleep, laugh and interact with other contestants,” said WWE executive vice president Andrew Whitaker.

    For more on the story, click here.

    — Night of Champions at the Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois actually drew 12,500 patrons, as opposed to the announced attendance of 13,851. The gate was $782,205.

    (sources: Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Pro Wrestling Torch)

  • Update On Final Member For Team Raw, Over The Limit, Jillian

    — Following Monday’s Raw, one spot remains for Team Raw for the WWE Bragging Rights Tag Team Match at WWE Bragging Rights. The remaining spot was tabbed for Mark Henry, and may still be, but he missed the show because his brother is in a coma after suffering a stroke last week.

    — The pre-sale password for WWE’s Over The Limit pay-per-view event taking place on May 22, 2011 at the Key Arena in Seattle, Washington is CENA. Tickets go on sale tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. local time via Ticketmaster.com. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Saturday.

    — It’s interesting to note that Jillian is featured as today’s “Daily Diva” on WWE.com. While she still’s officially listed as a WWE Superstar on the company website, she was reportedly removed from the active roster two weeks ago due to her new assigned role as trainer for developmental promotion Florida Championship Wrestling.

    — Next month on WWE Classics on Demand, WWE “gives thanks” with shows celebrating legends, announcers and matches. The synopsis reads: “All November on WWE Classics On Demand, we feature all the Superstars, matches and moments that the WWE Universe should be thankful for.”

    — The cover art for WWE’s Night of Champions DVD, which features Randy Orton, has been released. To view it, click here.