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Category: WWE

  • WWE & THQ Sign New 8-Year Video Game Deal

    WWE video games will continue to be developed & published by THQ through 2018 after a new agreement signed by the two companies. The agreement also puts an end to ongoing issues battle between WWE, THQ and Jakks regarding the WWE’s video game publishing rights.

    THQ AND WWE SIGN EIGHT-YEAR DEAL

    THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) and World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:WWE), leaders in video gaming and sports entertainment, today announced that they have entered into a new eight-year agreement granting THQ the exclusive worldwide rights to develop and publish video games based on WWE®’s content effective January 1, 2010.

    WWE grants THQ the exclusive worldwide rights to publish interactive games based on WWE properties across all major gaming platforms and distribution channels.

    Since WWE entered the video game market in 1990, it has been a recognized leader and one of the top ten best-selling brands since 1995* according to NPD Group. Through September 30, 2009, THQ has reported net sales of WWE video games in excess of $1.4 billion.

    “This agreement ensures that WWE games will continue to be an important cornerstone of THQ’s annual release schedule for the long term,” said Brian Farrell, THQ President and Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to working directly with WWE to expand their brand in the video game space through continued game play innovation and increased online delivery of WWE content.”

    “As one of the most successful video game brands, WWE is excited to work directly with THQ to translate WWE’s colorful characters and ever-changing content into exciting and fresh video games for our fans,” said Donna Goldsmith, WWE Chief Operating Officer.

    “This year’s highly rated WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 video game demonstrates the innovation and creativity that THQ brings to WWE,” said Vince McMahon, WWE Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “This new licensing agreement will ensure that we continue our tremendous success in the video game industry in the years to come.”

    *Based on US Market brand ranking 1995-November 2009

    About World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
    World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), 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, Toronto and Sydney. Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: WWE) can be found at corporate.wwe.com.

    About THQ Inc.
    THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) 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.

    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.

    Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements about THQ
    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 of WWE video games, 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, 2009, 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.

    Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements about 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 the conditions of the markets for live events, broadcast television, cable television, pay-per-view, Internet, entertainment, professional sports, and licensed merchandise; acceptance of the Company’s brands, media and merchandise within those markets; uncertainties relating to litigation; risks associated with producing live events both domestically and internationally; uncertainties associated with international markets; risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television distribution agreements; 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 to these risks and uncertainties, our dividend is based on a number of factors, including our liquidity and historical and projected cash flow, strategic plan, our financial results and condition, contractual and legal restrictions on the payment of dividends and such other factors as our board of directors may consider relevant.

  • Tyson Pulled From WWE.com, Austin On Hunting Show

    — On Tuesday we reported that WWE’s official website listed boxing legend “Iron” Mike Tyson as a future guest host of WWE Raw. Tyson was booked to host the January 11th edition of Raw from Minneapolis, MN – the night WWE Raw goes head-to-head for the first time with a live UFC Fight Night special on Spike TV.  WWE has since removed all references to Tyson from its website. This could be a case of WWE’s website team leaking the news too early or there could have been a change in scheduling. Either way, we’ll be following this story.

    — The Outdoor Channel cable network issued a press release on Tuesday announcing it will debut seven new original shows in the first quarter of 2010. One of the new shows, Drop Zone TV, will feature an appearance by WWE Hall of Famer Stone Cold Steve Austin. From the press release:

    Drop Zone TV – Debuts Sunday, January 3rd at 11:00 a.m. ET
    Get ready, you’re about to enter the “Drop Zone!” Hosted by Hal Shaffer of Outdoor Channel’s “Huntin’ the World…Southern Style” and NASCAR’s Greg Zipadelli, “Drop Zone TV” is a fast paced show with a modern twist, and is bound to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The list of celebrity guests is long and diverse, including some of NASCAR’s greats, along with the best of the NFL, country music and Major League Baseball. This season, former WWE World Champion, Stone Cold Steve Austin, will be in pursuit of his biggest whitetail ever, while comedian Killer Beaz adds his unique brand of comedy by making side-splitting commentary throughout many episodes of the show.

    For more on the Outdoor Channel, visit OutdoorChannel.com.

  • TNA Post-PPV Report, Bashir Gone, Steiner Injured

    – After last night’s Final Resolution pay-per-view went off the air, AJ Styles celebrated the fans and stared Daniels down as he made his exit. Styles took the mic and asked the fans if they wanted wrestling and said that’s what they just got. Styles said when they go live on January 4th they are doing it for the fans and wished everyone a Merry Christmas.

    — The departure of Sheik Abdul Bashir at the Final Resolution PPV was legit. Daivari said his goodbyes to the TNA crew earlier in the day. He had been with TNA since 2008 and recently signed a new contract, but has not been used on television in a meaningful way in a long time.

    — Scott Steiner tweaked his knee during the Last Man Standing match with Bobby Lashley at Final Resolution. He got checked out a trainer backstage and is said to be doing okay.

  • *Spoilers* WWE SmackDown Tapings Results (12/25)

    SmackDown *SPOILERS*
    SmackDown *SPOILERS*

    WWE SmackDown Tapings from Orlando, Florida
    December 20th, 2009 – Report by Patrick Dirusso

    Friday Night SmackDown

    * Opens with Vickie Guerrero and Teddy Long in the kitchen. Vickie brags about her “delicious Christmas recipes” including potatoes and turkey. When her back is turned, Hornswoggle appears on the table and tages a huge bite out of her turkey.

    * John Morrison, Matt Hardy, Finlay, and R-Truth vs. Dolph Ziggler, Drew McIntyre, CM Punk and Luke Gallows. Good match, lots of back and forth. All eight men were in the ring at the same time hitting their finishers. Morrisin hits Starship Pain on Ziggler for the pin.

    * Rey Mysterio vs. Undertaker ended in DQ when Batista attacked Taker during the match, as Taker was about to deliver the chokeslam on Rey. Saw this one coming a mile away. Taker laid out Batista and then Rey hit Taker with the hurricanrana and Batista with 619. It was a mess.

    * Cyime Tyme rolled Slam Master J, dressed as Santa, backstage. They stole his gift bag,  jacket, and went out and tossed the gifts to the fans at ringside.

    * Cryme Tyme defeat two jobbers. They continued handing out presents and gifts to ringside fans.

    * Mickie James and Maria defeated Beth Phoenix and Layla. Lots of heat for Layla and Michelle McCool who was doing commentary at ringside. After Mickey pinned Layla, she went to get her some of McCool. That led to a 3 on 2 attack which did not bode well for Mickie and Maria.

    * Segment with Chris Jericho where he whines and complains about losing the tag belts to DX. He then questions why the Hart Dynasty is deserving of a title shot. Harts come down. Jericho backstrokes a little but again questions why they deserve tag title shot. DX interuppts them via the big screen.

    DX say they have Christmas presents for Jericho and Hart Dynasty. For Jericho, they have a “Tickle Me Big Show” doll which farts when you press his stomach. They also have a one way ticket out of RAW. For the Hart Dynasty they have a 1 way ticket to Canada where there is snow, bears, hockey, more snow and more bears. Pretty typical DX stuff here.

    Jericho then tells Hart Dynasty to make an impact because this is how DX plays their immature childish games. And then, the Hart Dynasty hit their finisher on Jericho.

    * Another segment with Vickie and Teddy. Vickie apologizes for the previous Hornswoggle interruption. Vickie shows off her stuffing recipe which Teddy finds disgusting and asks how the Guerreros can eat that stuff. Hornswoggle appears again and throws a pie in both Vickie and Teddy’s face.

    * DX beat The Hart Dynasty in the main event with a Pedigree. Before the match, Triple H gives his own rendition of “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” After the match, Hornswoggle appears and poses with DX as SmackDown goes off the air.

    Dark Main Event:

    * Undertaker pins Batista following a Tombstone.

    Biggest Pops: Undertaker, DX, Rey Mysterio

    Biggest Heat: Batista, Chris Jericho, CM Punk

  • Sound Off 93: Bret Hart Returns, Should TNA Be Worried?

    Solomonster Sounds Off

    DOWNLOAD THE PODCAST HERE:
    Solomonster Sounds Off (Episode 93)
    *right-click, “Save As”, or stream it!

    Est. Runtime: 65 minutes

    Some of the topics discussed in this edition of the Sound Off include:

    | Bret Hart signs a contract to return to WWE, so what will he be doing and when will he debut?

    | Thoughts on TLC (a good show) and Raw is Slammys (not a good show)

    | Will Undertaker really face Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 26 or is this … a SWERVE (â„¢Russo)?

    | Jim Ross signs a contract extension with WWE (NOT a new long-term contract)

    | Debunking expectations for the January 4th head-to-head battle and what TNA should be doing to promote it

    Want your question on the air? Send feedback to THESOLOMONSTER@gmail.com.

    Wanna subscribe to the Sound Off via iTunes? CLICK HERE!

    Visit The Solomonster on Twitter @ twitter.com/solomonster

  • Jim Ross Blogs About Bret Hart Returning To WWE

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross
    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has posted a lengthy blog with his thoughts about Bret “The Hitman” Hart returning to WWE in January.  As always, you can read JR’s full blog and purchase his delicious BBQ products over at JRsBarBQ.com. Ross wrote:

    “Firstly, having Bret Hart return to a WWE locker room and be able to mentor young talents is awesome. Young wrestlers need more positive role models who have made it within the business and Bret would no doubt be a great mentor and coach. I have often wondered why Bret has not been asked or arrangements made for Bret to do be a “reoccurring professor” in WWE’s developmental program, FCW.

    “Secondly, Bret would not come back to WWE without a game plan and a strategy. Just as his wrestling matches had a beginning, a middle and an end so would the “Hitman’s” return to WWE especially considering the controversy of Montreal 1997 which is an issue that seemingly won’t die to wrestling historians and aficionados much like the President Kennedy tragedy in Dallas in 1963 to conspiracy theorists.

    “Bret is too smart that, IF, he’s coming back to WWE that he has a sound strategy in mind with a predetermined destination. It doesn’t take the class Valedictorian to make an educated guess that destination might logically be Wrestlemania 26.

    “Thirdly, if it is physically possible for Bret Hart to have a physical confrontation with his “arch nemesis” Mr. McMahon that attraction could be significant for WM26. When I last saw Bret at the Cauliflower Ally Club function a couple of years ago in Vegas he looked great. Pulling off an entertaining, say, “Street Fight” would not require the participants to have a traditional, wrestling bout of which Bret was the master back in the day.

    “I find it hard to believe that if Bret “Hitman” Hart’s name was mentioned so prominently on Monday Night Raw that there is more than simply smoke but also some fire as it relates to this matter and I hope that I’m right as the return of the “Hitman” would be great for the fans and would add a new, fresh and much needed creative element to Monday Night Raw. not to mention enhancing Monday Night Raw’s build to WM26. USA Network should be ecstatic is this matter comes to fruition.

    “Some have emailed me about what the potential of Bret returning would mean to the Hart Dynasty and I don’t know that answer. My guess is that the Dynasty would naturally get more exposure but I see this matter as being much more about Bret and Mr. McMahon that any thing else with the goal to create some exciting, new TV moments from its inception through WM26.

    “Again, this is purely personal  speculation and only one guy’s opinion as I have, as previously mentioned, not spoken to any one in the Hitman or WWE camps about this matter.

    “Bottom line is that if Bret Hart returns to WWE that, in my opinion, it will be on Monday Night Raw, it will commence on Monday January 4 and that it will culminate in something big at WM26.

  • Jim Ross Signs Short-Term WWE Contract Extension

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross
    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross

    WWE Hall of Famer has announced on his website JRsBarBQ.com that he’s signed a short-term contract extension with WWE.

    “My contract status with WWE has changed somewhat,” Ross wrote in a Friday blog. “We have agreed to terms on a contract extension for a few months to allow me to completely heal from Bells palsy #3.

    “I don’t expect to go back on the road until, at the earliest, March but that is an approximate time frame. The story making the rounds that I’m targeting WM26 to return to the airwaves makes for a good story but it is not accurate as I am hoping that I heal quicker and can get back in the game in some form sooner than March 28. That particular issue isn’t up to me.”

  • Bret Hart Interview: His WWE Return, Hogan-TNA & More

    WWE Hall of Famer Bret "The Hitman" Hart
    WWE Hall of Famer Bret "The Hitman" Hart

    WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart appeared on yesterday’s edition of Wrestling Observer Radio on F4Wonline.com. Here are some highlights:

    * Bret said he doesn’t have faith in Eric Bischoff or Hulk Hogan when it comes to recreating the Monday Night Wars with TNA. He respects TNA as a company and hope it brings competition for the sport but doesn’t think they’re going to do anything major. Bret said Hogan has played himself out to the American audience and doesn’t have anything to offer anymore.

    * He feels he still has lots of ideas and different things he can contribute to wrestling. His ideal job in the business right now would be something similar to what John Laurinaitis does for WWE. He would want to be involved in planning matches and storylines.

    * TNA has always been good to him as far as extending offers go.

    * Bret says he is a big fan of Randy Orton’s work these days but not impressed with the storylines he’s been involved in. He also said he’s impressed with Kofi Kingston and is a mark for Melina, calling her creative and very imaginative when it comes to doing her moves. He also feels everything Sheamus is doing right now is impressive and also is a big fan of Jack Swagger. Bret feels Swagger has good potential to be a top wrestler and character.

    * He would loved to have wrestled Kurt Angle and David Hart Smith. He also would have loved to work as a heel against John Cena because he feels they could have told a good story together. He hinted that Cena’s abilities in the ring are limited but he is still good.

    * As far as all the news about his WWE return, Bret said he can’t talk about the rumors but did say that he was talking with WWE and “we will see what happens.”

  • Vince Unhappy With Dennis Miller’s RAW Performance

    WWE officials are said to be unsatisfied with the performance of RAW guest host Dennis Miller.

    According to sources who were backstage at Monday’s 3-hour WWE RAW, Miller was late to arrive at the building and showed up just hours before the show went live on the air.

    Miller made a remark during the show that Vince McMahon was trying to give him some comedy pointers -  it turns out Miller’s remark was unscripted and a “shoot” – as McMahon really did try to give Miller some jokes to tell.

    Overall, Miller’s performance was considered sub-par. Many felt his humor missed the mark and he was unable to connect with the live crowd.

  • Miz Talks About Bret Hart, Tribute To The Troops & More

    WWE Raw superstar The Miz spoke was interviewed by Phil Strum of the PojoSlam blog this week and spoke about a number of topics including working with the various Raw celebrity guest hosts, wanting to feud with former partner John Morrison and more. Here’s what the Miz said about:

    Working With Mary Jannetty: “You have no idea how excited I was,” Miz said. “I wanted to prove I wasn’t the Marty Jannetty of the team. I almost felt bad because I was ripping on him right in front of his face. It’s terrible, but it was something I can do because I’m the Miz and that’s what I’d do.”rs.”

    His Tribute to the Troops Experience. “It brought me a whole new respect for our armed forces,” Miz said. “It was incredible seeing them and seeing the smiles on their faces. They don’t get to see their families during Christmas and birthdays. It was incredible to meet these people and bring smiles to their faces.”

    Bret Hart Returning To WWE: “I’m really curious on the whole situation,” he said. “Will Bret be a little bitter? Will Vince (McMahon) be bitter? It’s one of those things: This will be very entertaining and definitely shocking. That would be fantastic if he came in. He hasn’t been with us since he was inducted into the Hall of Fame and hasn’t been in a WWE ring in over 12 years.”

    To read the full interview, visit PojoSlam.blogspot.com.

  • Releases Coming, Obama Distances Himself From WWE

    – There are a lot of undercard talents in WWE who are worried about their jobs right now as everyone is expecting the company to release a number of talents after the first of the year.

    – Dennis Miller noted on FOX’s O’Reilly Factor show last night that WWE paid him no money for hosting the Slammy’s last week and what he got in return was to promote the USAcares.org charity.

    – After Linda McMahon seemed to use Barack Obama’s promo on WWE’s Tribute to the Troops special for political gain, The White House issued a statement to The Hartford Courant paper stating that the message Obama filmed for the special was for the Troops and not done in any way to show support for WWE. The White House said that Obama did not tape the promo for WWE but for the Troops and doesn’t mention WWE once in the message.

    – The theme songs for WWE’s 2010 Royal Rumble pay-per-view will be Martyr No More by Chris Jericho’s band Fozzy and Hero by Skillet.

    – WWE has been booking little people all week and have booked a Miami area courtroom for this coming Monday afternoon so it appears the segment with DX and Hornswoggle is finally happening after being put off for weeks.

  • Edge Talks About His WWE Return, Umaga & More

    Bubba The Love Sponge
    Bubba The Love Sponge

    WWE superstar Edge appeared on the Bubba the Love Sponge radio show this morning.. He talked with Bubba for about 20 minutes .. Here are some highlights sent in from reader Terri Bey:

    * Edge mentioned he was in North Carolina in the mountains in his new property there, and will be there for Christmas. He said he didn’t mind sitting out and getting paid.

    * Edge and Bubba talked about Vince and competition and Edge said that Vince thrives on competition and even though he (Vince) doesn’t like it, he works hard when he has to compete. Edge said Vince never stops working.

    * Edge and Bubba then talked about his deal. Edge said it ended in October, but they tacked on injury time and said however long this takes, that much time will be tacked on.

    Bubba mentioned some upcoming dates and Edge joked that he listed every city in Florida.

    * Edge talked about he and his girlfriend went to a movie in North Carolina where he is living and when they came out of the theatre, he said they saw a bear. Bubba asks how she is adapting since she is a Florida girl, and Edge said she had not seen snow since she was four.

    * Edge and Bubba banter about his looks, with Bubba saying he looks like a Neanderthal, and Edge said when he is done, he should be a caveman in those Geico commercials.

    * They discussed his return and he said he went to Dr. James Andrews for follow-ups and he is doing some explosive therapy in NC, and he is doing some other therapy in Tampa. He jokes that if they want him to work, he is sitting in the mountains.

    * Edge talked about Chris Jericho telling him he met Joe Walsh, and Edge then talked about the PPV. He said Christian and Benjamin had the best match. He also enjoyed the main event. He said Christian looked pissed off when they stopped the match due to the new rule. He said Christian wanted to keep going.

    * Edge put over Sheamus and said he was a good kid, and talked about how Ireland is wild about him. He joked how Sheamus is so pale, he is blue.

    * Edge put over FCW. He said when he was breaking into the business, he didn’t have all that (FCW). He talked about McIntyre, and Ted Dibiase coming out of FCW.

    * Edge said he was close with Umaga (called him Eki). He said he was super. He talked about when he dressed up as Umaga for a house show. He said Umaga cracked up. He said Umaga called him the night before he died, and didn’t think to keep the message. He said Umaga’s death hit him hard.

    * Edge was asked about the Undertaker and he said he has no idea how Taker performs so well. Bubba said Taker had best entrance. Edge said when he was wrestling Taker, he was in awe of Taker. Edge said Taker put him over a couple of time. He said Taker is about respect. He said he and Taker have always been on good terms. Edge then said he busts his ass with no crap and Taker respected it.

    * Edge was asked about rehab and return and says he doesn’t know when he will be back. The doctors told him 6 months to a year. He said when he heard six month, he thinks six months, but he said he has to see Andrews and get in a ring to see how it holds up. When he tests it he will see where he is at. He said that he is gunning for the first quarter of the year. Edge said he didn’t’ realize that he uses the Achilles for everything.

    * Bubba told Edge to say hi to his girlfriend for him and show ends.

  • Details On Flair’s TNA Negotiations, Danielson, Nash

    — Ric Flair and TNA Wrestling are closing in on the financial aspect of their negotiations. An interesting rumor going around claims that Flair wants to be contracted to Panda Energy, rather than TNA, so that he would still be entitled to a pay day if TNA went out of business.

    — To update the earlier story on Bryan Danielson’s status, he is actually training at Randy Couture’s “Xtreme Couture” gym in anticipation of his call from WWE.

    — Kevin Nash has reportedly been vocal in conveying his disapproval of Taz as a commentator.

    — WWE presently has a SmackDown! house show scheduled for 1/11, which would be the night WWE RAW goes head-to-head with UFC Fight Night. WWE has not yet committed to running that episode as a three-hour RAW, but should it make such a call, the assumption is that the house show would be postponed so that the SD wrestlers could work the TV show.

  • Bret Hart Signs With WWE: Details On His Return

    WWE Hall of Famer Bret "The Hitman" Hart
    WWE Hall of FamerBret "The Hitman" Hart

    Amid speculation that Bret Hart is in talks to return to World Wrestling Entertainment to host an upcoming edition of WWE RAW, it now appears Bret Hart’s involvement with WWE will extend well beyond a 1-night appearance. WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart has signed a short-term talent contract with WWE that goes into effect on January 1, 2010 and runs until April 10th, approximately two weeks after WrestleMania 26. The news was originally reported by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter and has since been corroborated by our own sources and other reliable sites.

    WWE had been in talks with Bret Hart for several months trying to bring him in for an extended program. There has been talk of talk of Hart returning to the ring for one match, but he will not be a full-time wrestler considering he’s 52 years old and has not wrestled since suffering head injuries (and later a stroke) a decade ago.

    The storyline that virtually writes itself is Bret Hart feuding with Vince McMahon to settle the 1997 Survivor Series screwjob once and for all. Whether Hart is able to participate in a full match or a less-taxing street fight, seeing the Hitman finally get his hands on Vince McMahon will be a sight to see.

    As reported here earlier this week, Bret’s former tag partner Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart recently said WWE was working on a new Hart Foundation DVD project. The DVD release is part of Bret’s deal.

    Bret Hart is expected to debut on the January 4th edition of WWE RAW, head-to-head with TNA’s Monday Night iMPACT! special.

    We’ll have more details on this blockbuster story in the coming days – stay tuned!

  • Details On WWE’s New Comic Book “WWE Heroes”

    The creators of the WWE Heroes comic book were interviewed by Newsrama.com and were asked whether it will be consistent with WWE storylines. “We’ve got pretty free reign to do what we please,” Keith Champagne said. “The only instances we’ve had to change something based on the TV stuff has been removing a couple of WWE superstars when they left the WWE.

    “If WWE doesn’t have the rights to use someone, we can’t. Otherwise, it’s the Wild West. By the way, the WWE has an AWESOME website we have access to listing tons of reference and photos of the people we can use, from classic superstars to modern day. I’ve spent hours in there getting lost…

    “It’s only happened a couple of times and with WWE superstars who were more or less being featured in the comic in minor roles. So it’s been pretty easy to just surf the wave and do a little rewriting to line things back up. If Triple H or Undertaker were to suddenly leave, that would be a bit harder to fix at this stage of the game but so far, it’s been a problem so minor it’s not even worth mentioning.”

  • Tournament To Determine Royal Rumble ECW Title Match

    The ECW Homecoming Qualifying matches kicked off on last night’s show with Kane and Ezekiel Jackson picking up wins. Over the next few weeks, former ECW Superstars will return to the brand to compete in these qualifying matches with the winners advancing to an eight-man Homecoming Finale Over-the-Top Rope Challenge on January 12th.

    The winner of that will go on to face Christian for the ECW Title at the Royal Rumble pay-per-view.

    Jack Swagger will return to ECW on next week’s show to face Yoshi Tatsu in a qualifying match.

  • JR Blog: Bret Hart Hosting Raw, HBK-Undertaker 2, His Health

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross
    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog, which you can (and should) read in its entirety at JRsBarBQ.com. Some highlights:

    WWE teasing Bret Hart will host RAW: “The teasing of Bret Hart potentially hosting Raw was cool. That was the first that I had officially heard of any sort of ‘Hitman’ return but it’s always good to see Bret in any forum and one would think that the WWE HOF’er would enhance the ratings for Raw when and if Bret does make an appearance. Could that particular appearance occur on January 4? Your guess is as good as mine.”

    Shawn Michaels challenging Undertaker: “Shawn Michaels challenging the Undertaker for a match at WM26 captured my imagination. These two created magic in Houston at WM25 and the question will be asked if both future WWE HOF’ers can recreate such a moment one more time. I will always consider being a part of the broadcast team for WM25 and being a small part of the HBK-Taker presentation as one of the greatest experiences that I’ve had in this business.”

    His own health and WWE contract status: “Yours truly is awaiting some important, medical test results that I hope to have sometime this week. I am of the belief that they will provide good news and refuse to believe any thing else. It goes without saying that I sincerely appreciate all the get well wishes and prayers from so many of you. Since making many, overdue life style changes I have been feeling great the past several weeks as I await the aforementioned medical test results and the facial nerve to kick start. With my personal health still my most important issue, I am not stressing about any contractual issues or negotiations and nothing has changed on that front or my mindset regarding such since I last addressed this matter. All my contractual issues are still in motion and being discussed.”

  • Bret Hart WWE Update, Miz Talks About Iraq & Lebron

    – Former WWE tag champion Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart said at an autograph signing this past weekend in Long Island, New York that WWE is working on a new DVD collection featuring The Hart Foundation ( not him & Bret but also Owen Hart, Davey Boy Smith, other Hart family members and possibly Brian Pillman). Neidhart told fans he recently finished shooting interview footage for for the project. With WWE teasing a return by Bret Hart on last night’s RAW, this adds to the speculation that Bret might be returning to WWE in some fashion.

    – The following matches and events are advertised for tonight’s ECW on Syfy show.

    * Kane is an invited guest of ECW general manager Tiffany.
    * The Hurricane vs. The Ripper.

    – The Miz was interviewed by FoxNews.com and spoke about his experience in Iraq for WWE’s 7th annual Tribute to the Troops taping earlier this month.

    “One camp we visited didn’t even have running water. Could you imagine living without running water? Plus there’s nothing to do besides work out, eat, and work,” he said. “However when we came in seeing the smiles on these heroes’ faces was priceless.” I feel safe and secure with our troops protecting us. One of the great things about our tribute is that their families get to see them enjoy themselves, smile and be happy. It’s a great change from seeing the news with all the bombings and negativity.”

    Miz also said he wants basketball superstar Lebron James, “the second biggest star in Cleveland behind me”, to join WWE in Iraq next year.

  • Johnny Damon Hosting Raw, Doink In Rehab, MVP Single

    – Next week’s WWE RAW will be hosted by New York Yankee Johnny Damon. Hhe will be bringing some “Secret Santas” with him, so expect a some other Yankees in attendance.

    – WWE has confirmed that the “Little People’s Court” segment with DX and Hornswoggle that was taped weeks ago will finally air on next week’s RAW from Tampa, Florida.

    – “The View” co-host Sherri Shepherd recently announced on her show that she’s no longer dating WWE superstar MVP and that the two are now “just friends.”

    – Former WWE star Matt “Doink” Borne recently completed a stint in WWE sponsored rehab. He will be meeting with the company soon about an agent job.

  • Complete List Of 2009 Slammy Award Winners

    SlammyBelow are results from the 2009 Slammy Awards that aired on Monday”s RAW:

    * Tag Team of the Year: Chris Jericho & Big Show

    * Breakout Star of the Year: Sheamus

    * Shocker of the Year: CM Punk forces Jeff Hardy to leave WWE

    * Match of the Year: Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker

    * Guest Host of the Year: Bob Barker

    * Extreme Moment of the Year: Jeff Hardy’s jump at SummerSlam

    * Oh My Moment of the Year: Michael Cole puking on Chris Jericho

    * Diva of the Year: Maria

    * Superstar of the Year: John Cena

  • UFC Going Head-To-Head With WWE’s WrestleMania 26

    Whether pro wrestling is considered competition of Mixed Martial Arts is up for debate. WWE CEO Vince McMahon denies UFC is his competition, but there’s no question that the two sports compete for pay-per-view dollars and these days, even talent (Lesnar, Lashley).

    Spike TV and UFC got the attention of World Wrestling Entertainment when they announced the next live UFC Fight Night event will take place on January 11th – the first time UFC has run a live show on a Monday dnight, head-to-head with WWE Monday Night Raw.

    In a move that is likely to upset World Wrestling Entertainment and probably hurt the PPV buyrate of its biggest show of the year, UFC have decided to bump UFC 111 ahead to weeks from 3/12 PPV to 3/26, the night before WrestleMania 26.

    UFC 111 will take place from Newark, NJ and will be headlined by Georges St. Pierre vs. Dan Hardy.

    It should also be noted that the highly anticipated Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao superfight will be taking place on 3/12, which likely contributed to UFC’s decision to move their show. The last time UFC went head-to-head the same night against a Floyd Mayweather fight (UFC 103: Franklin vs. Belfort) – UFC got crushed, with Mayweathter’s fight against Ricky Hatton drawing nearly twice as many PPV buys as UFC and setting PPV records. As much trash as Dana White talks about boxing, even he recently joked that he too wants to see the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight and thus would not want to put a UFC event against it.

    Wrestling insiders believe this year’s WrestleMania buyrate will take a big hit from the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight, while some MMA journalists are reminding people not to sell WWE short, as WrestleMania is still WWE’s “Superbowl” event and a proven commodity on PPV. March will be a big month for fight fans and it will be very interesting to see how the PPV dollars are spent.

  • HBK Superkicks NBA Mascot At San Antonio Spurs Game

    Shawn Michaels and his wife Rebecca were courtside at the San Antonio Spurs vs. Charlotte Bobcats NBA game this past Friday night.

    HBK got involved with the mascots and ended up giving some Sweet Chin Music to the Bobcat’s mascot – check it out.

  • JR Blog: Sheamus’ WWE Title Win, Orton vs. Kingston & More

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross
    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog, which you can (and should) read in its entirety at JRsBarBQ.com. Here’s what JR had to say about last night’s TLC PPV:

    Sheamus Winning The WWE Championship: “Sheamus upsetting John Cena to win the WWE Title was a MAJOR shock to me. I mentioned in an earlier blog on Sunday that I liked surprises, especially surprises that are logical and believable, and this surpirse was that and more and really caught me off guard. Good stuff. It reminded me somewhat of many years ago when Stone Cold was red hot and he lost the WWE Title to Kane in a ‘First Blood’ match. Sheamus’ victory is a huge and bold step in the right direction for another, young talent. It will be interesting to see what sort of publicity is generated in Ireland as a result of Sheamus becoming the WWE Champion.”

    Orton vs. Kingston Feud: “Funny…but it seemed to me watching at home that the Orton-Kofi issue was hotter a few weeks ago than it was Sunday night on PPV. It just might have been the crowd getting restless or looking ahead to the TLC bout. However, I thought the match was really solid and I was surprised that Orton won. Nonetheless I think that Kofi accounted himself well and is ‘this close’ to being perceived as a full time main eventer. Even if Kofi had won I would have said the same thing. It just takes time to get to the next level but I do feel that Kofi has had some outstanding exposure on Raw the past few weeks especially around the time Kofi defaced Orton’s NASCAR.”

    Last Night’s Three-Man Announce Team: “The three man announce booth is challenging especially when the three man team doesn’t regularly work with each other. I enjoyed the announcing of the trio tonight better than I did at the Survivor Serieswhich would indicate that Cole, Lawler, and Striker were more comfortable working with each other in San Antonio. ‘Comfort’ and ‘finding one’s zone’ are crucial when broadcasting live TV.”

  • Jeff Hardy Comments On TLC, Dark Match & Title Changes

    — Jeff Hardy and Mickie James have posted comments on their Twitter pages regarding WWE’s Tables, Ladders & Chairs PPV.

    Jeff Hardy wrote: “TLC” and later followed up with “GoodFinish”

    Mickie James wrote: “me tonight! :-( The sun shines on every dogs booty once and a while. Tonight was theirs. This is not over. No! This is just the beginning!”

    To read more tweets from wrestlers and divas, check out PWTweets.com.

    — In a dark match that took place fro San Antonio, Texas before WWE’s Tables, Ladders & Chairs PPV began, R-Truth defeated CM Punk.

    — Here is a rundown of the title changes that took place at TLC:

    * Drew McIntyre defeated John Morrison to become the new WWE Intercontinental Champion
    * Sheamus defeated John Cena to become the new WWE Champion

    * DX defeated Chris Jericho & Big Show to become the new Unified Tag Team Champions at tonight’s TLC pay-per-view.

  • Sound Off 92: Gimme Mah Gun, I’m Off To War Brother!

    Solomonster Sounds Off

    DOWNLOAD THE PODCAST HERE:
    Solomonster Sounds Off (Episode 92)
    *right-click, “Save As”, or stream it!

    Est. Runtime: 64 minutes

    Some of the topics discussed in this edition of the Sound Off include:

    | Hulk Hogan and TNA rekindle the Monday Night Wars with WWE on January 4th, including a look at who may debut thAt night and Hogan’s ridiculous prediction on the “iMPACT!” rating

    | Bobby Lashley signs with Strikeforce to continue his MMA career, but will he still be able to wrestle?

    | Thoughts on Mark Cuban on Raw and the one thing WWE did wrong in his final segment with Sheamus

    | TLC thoughts and predictions and which match should be the sleeper of the PPV

    | A rant on another INCREDIBLY STUPID SEGMENT produced by TNA that not only does NOT make television, but is made to look like a REHEARSAL of a segment (idiots!)

    Want your question on the air? Send feedback to THESOLOMONSTER@gmail.com.

    Wanna subscribe to the Sound Off via iTunes? CLICK HERE!

    Visit The Solomonster on Twitter @ twitter.com/solomonster