SEScoops

Category: WWE

  • Lance Cade Returns To World Wrestling Entertainment

    Source: PWInsider.com

    World Wrestling Entertainment has signed former tag team champion Lance Cade to a new contract.  He reported to Florida Championship Wrestling, WWE’s developmental territory, earlier this week.

    Cade, who was trained by Shawn Michaels in Texas, is best known from his tag team with Trevor Murdoch. He had been in the midst of the biggeset push of his career, working as Chris Jericho’s second during a feud with Michaels when he was suddenly released in October 2008. WWE announcer Jim Ross reported at the time that Cade was let go after suffering a seizure on a flight that required emergency treatment. The belief at the time was that Cade’s seizure was the result of “something he had taken.”

    Since his WWE releasse last year, he’s been working for the NWA in California as well as in Japan.

  • Update On J.R.’s Condition, Linda Hogan, UFC, Jericho, Foley

    — The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that Jim Ross’ voice sounds perfect, according to someone who spoke to him personally. Ross recently suffered his third Bells Palsy attack, but it looks like he won’t be setback as much as he was with his two prior attacks.

    — Linda Hogan and her publicists are currently working a statement regarding her reaction to the first excerpts from Hulk Hogan’s book, and his comments about being close to committing suicide.

    — The Ultimate Fighter last night did a 2.1 rating. Speaking of UFC, Brock Lesnar’s anti-Bud Light comments were edited from the newly released UFC 100 DVD. Also edited out was Lesnar flipping off the crowd and Dan Henderson’s comment about punching Michael Bisping again on purpose after knocking him out.

    — Chris Jericho will be appearing tomorrow night at the Sacramento Horror Film Festival at the Colonial Theatre in Sacramento, California. They will be playing the movie Albino Farm, which Jericho acts in.

    — Mick Foley headlines the Total Extreme Comedy show on November 2nd at the Gotham Comedy Club in Manhattan, NY. Colt Cabana, formerly known as Scotty Goldman, will also be there doing stand-up.

    Advertisement: The following link is not part of SEScoops.com:
    NEW PICS: Jeff Hardy with his shaved head, Torrie Wilson’s first pics after hospitalization, & more

  • Poll Results: Are You Looking Forward To More Cena-Orton?

    The results are in for our second poll here at SEScoops.com and the results are not a good sign for WWE heading into Sunday’s Bragging Rights Pay-Per-View.

    Over 3,000 SEScoops.com readers cast their vote when we asked, “Are You Looking Forward To 60 Minutes of John Cena & Randy Orton?

    70% said, “NOOO – Not More Cena & Orton!!”

    30% said, “Hell Yeah – These Two Have Great Matches”

    There’s a new poll up now – let’s hear what you think about Nigel MGuiness signing with TNA Wrestling….

  • Jim Ross Suffers 3rd Bell’s Palsy Attack (Updated)

    While on a Monday night flight from Oklahoma to Columbia, South Carolina for tonight’s SmackDown tapings, WWE Hall of Famer Jim Rosss suffered his 3rd Bells palsy attack. He was able to reach WWE doctors and they called in the medicines he needed to get started on to slow down the paralysis. He wrote on JRsBarBQ.com this afternoon:

    “This isn’t my first challenge I’ve had to deal with and there are lots of folks that have much worse issues than do I that they contend with on a daily basis. My intention is to fight thru this and continue doing what I love.”

    “The wrestling business and those that work in it have become such a huge part of my life and the way I see it this is just another bump in the road as I am far from “tapping out. With all the fans that have always supported me thru 35 years, I know I won’t be going thru this alone.”

    Ross had planned to work tonight’s WWE SmackDown tapings alongside Jerry “Lawler,”  filling in for the recently married Tod Grisham. Those plans have now changed.

    “It has been decided that I should not risk further issues by working tonight and I am in the process of arranging a flight back to OKC so I can see a neurologist on Wednesday.”

    “I want to be a part of Bragging Rights but only time will tell if that will be physically possible. My passion and love for the game is in tact but I have to do what’s best for my long term health”

    “Life is about facing the challenges we encounter so I am going to do all I can to get better and back at the announce desk asap. I wish I had more answers but I simply don’t at this time … Never count me out of the game as this isn’t the first mountain that I have had to climb. Jerry Lawler and Michael Cole will handle SD from Columbia. My thanks to every one for understanding this matter. Better days are on the horizon.

    Ross said he’s grateful that WWE has been “tremendously supportive” of his situatiion.

    We wish JR a full and speedy recovery.

    I was able to reach WWE doctors who were in Jacksonville for Raw and they were able to call in the medicines I needed to get started on to slow down the paralysis

  • Torrie Wilson Desribes Her Recent Hospitalization

    Former WWE diva Torrie created a lot of commotion last week after she posted the following message on Twitter:

    “Big scare for me tonight. I was in the emergency room. Thought I was heading up to Heaven for a minute there. Thanks for letting me stay a little longer, Jesus!”

    Wilson spoke to the Houston Chronicle this week and shed some light on her recent hospitalization due to a bad reaction to medicine she took for a thyroid problem. According to Wilson, her “heart was starting to shut down” while she was in San Diego, California.

    “By the time I reluctantly went to the doctor, I was rushed to the emergency room with numb arms and legs and blue hands,” Torrie told the Houston Chronicle. “I was extremely dizzy and nauseous. I still didn’t take this seriously until the doctor started freaking out on me.”

    Wilson was surprised that her message on Twitter got so much attention online. “I had a horribly close call, and I’m ashamed to admit that I ‘Twittered’ about it hours after I was out of the hospital because I was so flabbergasted at what happened! I guess I forgot how many people actually pay attention to me.”

    Torrie also shot down rumors that she was using abusing prescription pain pills or any other drugs. She’s has a history of back problems that forced her to end her wrestling career.

    “I was not taking prescription pain pills and anything crazy – like the Internet rumors said,” she said. “My heart rate was 30 per minute and slowing when I finally got help. I will never take medication without doing research on possible adverse reactions. In a nutshell, that’s what happened.”

    Scary stuff, but thankfully she’s recovering. To read the entire interview, visit Chron.com.

  • CM Punk Names His Dream WrestleMania Opponent & More

    CM Punk was part of a brief chat at TheState.com today to promote tonight’s Smackdown taping in Columbia, South Carolina.  Punk was his humorous self, delivering mostly sarcastic answers during chat. You can read a full transcript here. Some highlights:

    His dream Wrestlemania opponent:

    “Last year, before I was in the MITB match, it was Rey.   This year, it’s still Rey.   Mania is a long ways aways right now, so it’s hard to say where i’ll end up….but I do need a haircut….”

    Who he wants to wrestle in WWE:

    “If you think about it, you haven’t really even seen me warm up….Cena, hbk, hhh….”

    How long he plans to wrestle:

    “I’ve been wrestling 12 years now non stop with a little pit stop for a fractured skull.   It’s hard to say when i’ll stop, but I don’t want to wear out my welcome OR do this forever.   There is life after wrestling.”

    If he could wrestle anyone from the past, who would it be:

    “Harley Race.   And he would kill me.   But I would come back from the dead.”

  • WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 Reviewed – Buy It Here!

    The new WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 video game is now available the PS3, XBOX 360, Wii, DS, PSPand PS2 consoles.

    Video game site IGN.com has posted a review of the game and gave it an 8.5/10 – Great. Reviewer Gregory Miller had a lot of good things to say about this year’s installment, as there have been improvements in many aspects of the game.

    You can check out IGN’s full reviews below:

    New features in this year’s installment include:

    — The presentation of the game is better than ever, “practically nonexistent” load timess and plenty of small details (the WWE live logo, the end of show copyright, etc.) that make this feel like you’re watching a real WWE broadcast.

    — The Royal Rumble match has been completely redesigned from the ground up and is more authentic than ever.

    — WWE Story Designer is another brand new addition to the game this year. Players the ability to create their own original story.

    — Created Superstars, highlight reels, created finishing moves, and screenshots can all be uploaded online and downloaded by other players.

    — The characters models continue to evolve, looking “as good as ever”. The animations are smooth and everything seems to move fluidly.

    — The new blood system is said to be a great feature, with cuts starting small and blood flow increasing as more damage is done.

    BUY SMACKDOWN vs. RAW 2010 Below from AMAZON.COM – Best Prices Anywhere!

  • JR Blog: Shane Leaving WWE, Flair vs. Hogan & More

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

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross his blog, which you can read at JRsBarBQ.com. Here’s what JR said about:

    Shane’s Departure From WWE: “No website has any definitive news on why Shane McMahon resigned from his family’s company, WWE, on Friday. Perhaps more news sites will elaborate on this matter come Monday as Friday is always the best day to drop big news as sometimes it gets somewhat lost on the weekend. Nonetheless no one knows why Shane seemingly abruptly decided to leave the family business and I don’t feel that any one will know the reason until he declares what his next venture will be. Shane has a great formal education not to mention years of “on the job” training since starting out on the ring crew as a teen during the summers. I know Shane has many interests and who’s to say that he simply wants to reassess where he is in his life and spend more time with his family which includes two sons? Until Shane himself makes an official statement as to what he is going to tee up next, then every thing any one can read, report or write about is pure speculation. Shane has excellent people skills and a unique skill set in a one of a kind genre that employs basic promotional and organization skills that should be transferable to many businesses.”

    Wrestlers Leaving The Industry: I have always found it amazing when fans cannot understand when someone who is seemingly entrenched in the wrestling business decides to explore other opportunities. Both the Rock and Stone Cold have been dissed because they no longer have the desire to “wrestle” but have both said that they would be interested in making selected appearances at the right place and the right time. For some fans that isn’t good enough. I admire “wrestlers” or “wrestling people” who want to explore other opportunities. Life cannot become one dimensional and one cannot allow their own lives to revolve around one, singular entity. That mindset isn’t healthy or smart.  Unless one is in a very unique position, IE ownership, and that’s arguable, one should not allow the wrestling biz or any other biz to become their “life.” Those that due usually end up miserable and make those around them unhappy as well. I have great empathy for ex-wrestlers who have to or feel compelled to to hang on to whatever they can within the wrestling business under the guise of “loving the business” while it’s really all about not having any marketable skills to replace their income. This is just one of the reasons that I always encourage young wrestlers to be to get college degrees so that they will have something to fall back on in case becoming a wrestling star doesn’t’ work out….and it usually doesn’t. If 2-3 out of 100 prospect become legit, main event level wrestling stars then a company should feel fortunate.

    Flair Wrestling Again: Speaking of “Naitch” he called me Saturday morning early to wish me good luck at the Red River Shootout at the Cotton Bowl which was a classy gesture. He’s excited to be going to Australia to wrestle but Flair vs. Hogan isn’t what I would book as it would be Flair and Hogan together against two, younger athletic guys. Ric going down under to make a big payday doesn’t bother me at all nor do I think it bothers HBK who a fan recently asked about in our Q&A section of this site.

  • Jim Ross Previews Bragging Rights & Talks TNA Rumors

    Monday Night Mayhem — “Home Of Wrestling Radio”
    Broadcast Live & Worldwide On The Monday Night Mayhem Radio Network
    www.MondayNightMayhem.com

    Jim Ross Previews WWE Bragging Rights PPV/Returning To The Western New York Area, Discusses His WWE Future/TNA Rumors (And Missing SmackDown Last Tuesday), Matt Hardy’s Recent Twitter/MySpace Comments, If He Sees Booker T Returning To The WWE, How Much Of An Impact He Sees “The American Dragon” Bryan Danielson/Nigel McGuinness Having, & His Memories Of The Late Captain Lou Albano

    WWE Hall Of Famer & the voice of WWE’s Friday Night SmackDown, Jim Ross, was the special guest on this weekend’s edition (10/16/09) of Monday Night Mayhem (presented by ReelWrestling.com), hosted by The Big Mosh, Blade, & “The Chairman Of The Board” Todd Vincent. You can feel The Mayhem live & in streaming audio every Monday night (at 8PM ET/7PM CT).
    JR’s return to The Mayhem (as part of the “MNM Fall Tour ’09”) is now available for free in Windows Streaming Media, or via The Mayhem’s official Podcast on ITunes:

    Jim Ross/Monday Night Mayhem Interview (MNM Streaming Audio): http://www.mondaynightmayhemarchives.com/waxfiles/101609.wax

    Jim Ross/Monday Night Mayhem Interview (MNM Podcast On ITunes): http://www.mondaynightmayhemarchives.com/oct09/101609.mp3

    Here are some of the highlights of JR’s exclusive interview, provided by The Mayhem’s official correspondent, Paterson From New Jersey:

    ========================================

    We promised you some surprises as part of the “Fall Tour ’09” of “Your Home Of Wrestling Radio.” As World Wrestling Entertainment gears up for the Bragging Rights Pay-Per-View, as well as the company’s return to the Western New York area (Buffalo & Rochester), who else better than WWE Hall Of Famer & the voice of WWE’s Friday Night SmackDown, Jim Ross, to step inside the MNM squared circle.

    JR thanked The Big Mosh, Blade, “The Chairman Of The Board” Todd Vincent for the return back to The Mayhem’s airwaves. After missing last week’s SmackDown tapings in Lexington, KY, the internet has been swirling with speculation about if this could mean “trouble in paradise” between him & the WWE. JR wished to clear up any speculation once & for all. “Yeah, I guess it was a slow news week. Every 16 years, you ask for a TV taping off, and it was a big weak for us for my wife & I (their 16th wedding anniversary). I’ll be back at work next week (in Columbia, SC), and it’s not a big deal. But everything is good. I enjoyed the time off, and I’m excited to get back to work.”

    Next Sunday night will see the first-ever Bragging Rights Pay-Per-View from Pittsburgh, PA. The highlight of the event will see a 60-Minute, Anything Goes Iron Man Match between Randy Orton & John Cena for the WWE Championship. JR was asked about the PPV & what fans should expect from the show. “I think it should be an interesting show. Of course, the Cena/Orton match is going to be an hour, being an old-school like that. Those guys have a long-standing rivalry, and it looks as if it’s coming to an end. If it is being able to perform for an hour, that really gives those guys the opportunity to make their mark even more so than they already have.”

    Back in the late ’90’s, JR was credited with the upswing the WWE experienced, due to his eye for talent & signing guys that brought “The Attitude Era” to the WWE. JR was asked by “The Chairman Of The Board” Todd Vincent about the new match of stars that he sees headlining WrestleMania in a few years. “I think the WWE has done a solid job of creating a nice young nucleus that’s on the cusp of moving to the next level. There’s several gyts that I enjoy watching do their thing. I think John Morrison has a good upside & so does Dolph Ziggler as well. I need to see more of guys like (Drew) McIntyre, (Mike) Knox, & some of those individuals. I think they have some potential without question. I think RAW has some good talent. I like Jack Swagger…he’s getting closer. I think The Miz is a very prolific antagonist, and his persona is very easy to dislike. I like Sheamus…he’s got a good upside. There are a lot of guys that I enjoy watching aspects of their game…It’s just a matter of getting more experience & opportunities. And somewhere along the way, you are going to see guys back through.”

    The Matt Hardy news mill is still running regarding the cryptic Twitter & MySpace messages from several weeks ago. Blade asked JR about a possible crackdown on Internet usage for the WWE superstars & Matt’s future on SmackDown. “I can’t speak for WWE, and I don’t know how to Twitter. So, I don’t know what they are doing to do on that. I think anybody, whether it is in the NBA, NFL, WWE, or anywhere, you don’t want anybody communicating to the outside world in a negative or disgruntled fashion, if that’s the case. About the SmackDown superstar: “I think Matt has great potential…He’s had it for a long time. He’s come close to getting over the hump, and it seems like to thing or another deletes that. A lot of it is bad luck. I’ve always had confidence in Matt Hardy’s abilities, and I think the WWE has confidence in him as well.”

    Two of JR’s former broadcasting colleagues, Taz & Mick Foley, left World Wrestling Entertainment for TNA Wrestling, and the latest news being speculated on is former five-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion & Main Event Mafia Member, Booker T, could be making a return to the WWE at the end of his current contract. Does JR see Booker returning back to World Wrestling Entertainment? “I haven’t talked to Booker since he left the WWE. I think he is a good guy, and I’ve known him for years. I don’t know what WWE’s thoughts are about Booker T coming back or not. Now obviously, if he’s healthy, if he’s motivated, and he could manage the travel schedule at his stage of the game. I think he could be an asset.”

    JR has come around the Western New York area throughout his WWE career, and World Wrestling Entertainment is returning to Buffalo & Rochester next week for the first set of TV tapings for RAW, ECW, & SmackDown after Sunday’s Bragging Rights Pay-Per-View. Mosh asked JR about his memories of the area & working there. “I came to buffalo with the (Atlanta) Falcons one year & did the sideline reporting in a sleet storm, which was not overly pleasant, but the Bills killed the Falcons. When I go to Rochester, I always think of Gorilla Monsoon, because he was from there, and he always talked fondly about his upbringing there.” JR also added his memories of the world-famous Ilio DiPaolo’s Restaurant in the Buffalo area, which was opened up by the famous grappler in the mid ’60’s, which is still owned & operated today by Ilio’s son, Dennis.

    The absence of JR from SmackDown brought up questions regarding his contract status with the WWE & what his future holds…Could that include TNA? JR cleared up the situation exclusively on The Mayhem. “There’s no contractual issue with me. I just have to redo a deal. I have to come to terms on a contract, and I feel like it’ll be done. But if it isn’t done, I don’t need a telethon or a career eulogy. I’ve had a wonderful run; 35 years in the business…Are you kidding me? I’m a fan, I’m still a fan.”

    Former WWE Head Of Security & The Mayhem’s very own Jimmy Noonan (of MNM’s “Noonan Speaks”) joined the interview & broke the proverbial bread with JR, whom he worked with for years in the WWE. Noonan brought up the “Class Of 2002,” which featured names like Brock Lesnar, John Cena, Batista, & others. He went on to ask JR about this time as a special time of wrestling, due to this special group of guys, and if we are seeing the “end of an era” with some of today’s stars drawing a close to their careers. “I think that was a special group, and our department was very fortunate in recruiting & getting those guys trained.” He continued, “It may be the closing of one era, but the business has been so resilient over decade over decade. You just have to reload. You have to recruit quality human beings that are athletic & charismatic and want to be in the business. If it is the closing of one chapter, we just have to start writing a new one.”

    More is contained in his exclusive hour-long interview with Jim Ross on The Monday Night Mayhem Radio Network, as JR gives his candid thoughts & comments on the passing of the late Captain Lou Albano, the upcoming arrivals of “The American Dragon” Bryan Danielson & Nigel McGuinness from Ring Of Honor, his thoughts on the current WWE travel schedule, & even some Oklahoma Sooners football. Truly one for the records, as “Your Home Of Wrestling Radio” gives one of the most in-depth interviews from JR you will ever hear. Log onto JR’s official website (located at www.jrsbarbq.com), and check out JR’s weekly blogs…required reading for any wrestling fan. While surfing the site, be sure to purchase some of the great products available, including JR’s original BBQ Sauce, Chipolte Ketchup, & 97% Fat-Free Beef Jerky.

    WWE Presents Monday Night RAW: Monday, October 26th @ 8:15PM ET live from The HSBC Arena in Buffalo, NY. Tickets are $62.50, $42.50, $32.50, $24.50, & $17.50, which include $2.50 facility fee. Tickets can be purchased at The HSBC Arena Box Office, online at www.Tickets.com, as well as all Tickets.com outlets, including participating Tops Markets. All dates, acts, & ticket prices are subject to change without notice. For more information, or to charge by phone, call toll free at (888) 223-6000. Tickets are subject to applicable service charges (no service charge applies at The HSBC Arena Box Office).

    Mayhem Nation: Want to be a part of this special edition of MNM & also have the chance to score a pair of tickets to WWE’s Monday Night RAW at The HSBC Arena in Buffalo, NY next Monday night? Contact the program via the MNM/Sizzlin’ Sauces inbox (MondayNightMayhem@hotmail.com), and interact with The Mayhem Crew on MySpace (located at www.MySpace.com/MondayNightMahem & presented by TicketRelief.com) & Facebook (located at www.Facebook.com/MondayNightMayhem).
    “Your Home Of Wrestling Radio” is officially presented by ReelWrestling: the latest & hottest innovation from the coverage of professional wrestling online.Want to be a part of the RW movement? It’s simple…head on over to www.ReelWrestling.com, and subscribe (via e-mail or SMS) for free announcements on what’s hot & fresh on ReelWrestling.com. Your favorite Superstars & Divas are just one click away! The award-winning Monday Night Mayhem (voted on by you, the fans as the “Show Of The Year” in the 2009 Wrestling Radio Awards), is also sponsored by: Sizzlin’ Sauces (the official hot sauce of The Mayhem’s “Fall Tour ’09”), The History Of WWE.com (bringing you the best in the illustrious history of our business since 2002), TicketRelief.com (the official online traffic school of The Mayhem), & ACN (get info about the ACN home-based business opportunity, video phone, & network marketing by contacting Shawn Allen at www.ssallen.acnrep.com).

    All new & old members of The Mayhem Nation can check out the official Monday Night Mayhem Audio Vault, which contains the finest programming/audio content from over five+ years of Mayhem goodness. You can re-live interviews with some of your favorite WWE superstars (CM Punk, Chris Jericho, Ted DiBiase, Cody Rhodes, & “The Glamazon” Beth Phoenix), WWE Hall Of Famers (Bret “Hitman” Hart, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, Jim Ross, & Jesse “The Body” Ventura), plus some of the biggest names in the worlds of sports, entertainment, & Hollywood (Dennis Rodman, Jim Kelly, Curtis Granderson, Ice-T, Nancy O’Dell, Michael Buffer, Brooke Hogan, & many more). All this is now available World Wide & 365 at www.MondayNightMayhem.com.

  • Former WWE Employee Sheds Light On Shane’s Departure

    Stephanie McMahon’s former assistant, Mike Witt, sent the following to us regarding the relationships between the McMahon’s and the departure of Shane.

    I worked with Stephanie McMahon for two years as a runner and production assistant. I left because I was offered a new opportunity which required less travel.

    It seems that a lot of wrestling news sites are pointing to Shane departure as a result of some sort of inner tension between Stephanie and Shane and where they stand in the company. I’m not sure who these sources are but here was my experience, take it for what it is worth, and it really would be nice if your readers got to at least read a first hand account of behind the scenes life:

    Stephanie was not unlike any other business person and stood by her decisions. Between you and me, some may not have been the best, but if you are going to get respect in a lockerroom full of egos, you can’t cower at every little disagreement. So call that brash, but anyone in that kind of position would do the same. Let’s not forget there’s more pressure on her than anyone else in the company. That’s just my opinion.

    There were times when both Shane and Stephanie shared ideas. There was never any tension between them that I could see. I would say though that Vince was very, very hard on Stephanie since he pretty much still runs creative. I’ve seen him blow up at her on more than one occassion.

    As far as Stephanie’s interaction with talent and behavior under strees, I never saw her degrade or yell at talent. I have seen her pull talent aside from time to time if something was done poorly or at the risk of hurting the flow of production. Again, normal given her position.

    As for Shane, although he was not around much, he definitely was the more overbearing of the two. He wanted everyone to know he was his father’s son and had a “good old boy” sense of running things. Almost to the point where it was quite degrading to Stephanie. Maybe I’m biased because I worked for her, who knows, but Shane certainly seemed to have a chip on his shoulder at times and he truly did love being one of the boys. Obviously Stephanie will never have that luxery.

    As for Vince, yes, he is loud, commanding, and a yeller. Yes, he did give Stephanie a lot of attention because she worked directly with creative whereas Shane was mostly corporate. Again, just because Stephanie worked with Vince more deos not mean their styles were the same. I didn’t get that at all. Vince is a yealler, more brash in his tine. Stephanie was often the person to calm people (just ask Heyman).

    As for Shane, I wish him luck. Maybe the chip he has on his shoulder is why he left, who knows. He never really showed any interest in creative so I’m not sure why internet writers keep comparing the two. Had Shane shown any interest in creative, or had some solid input, there’s not a doubt in my mind that Shane would have been running creative. But instead he chose the more corporate side. He’s a salesman through and through. Stephanie is not. What you see is what you get. She’s down to earth and says what’s on her mind.

    Anyway, just wanted to pass this along. May people read a lot of things on the internet and never really get the “real” scoop. This is just my experience but I hope it sheds some light on things.

    For the record, I didn’t see Shane’s departure coming either, but lets not forget, he’s still a major shareholder in the company and can return at any time. He will also still have plenty of influence behind the scenes. Whether that’s good or bad who knows.

    Thank you for your time,
    Mike

  • Detailed Update On Shane McMahon Quitting WWE

    The latest on Shane McMahon leaving WWE is that its a legit news story and not a storyline, as some have speculated. Aside from Shane’s initial statement on WWE.com Friday morning, WWE issued a press release on their corporate website confirming the departure. The story has been picked up by a number of mainstream news outlets.

    At this point, there is still no definitive word as to why Shane is leaving.What we do know is that the news came as a shock to most within WWE, including those who have been working directly under him.

    Anybody who knows the dynamics of the McMahon family are aware that Shane closer with Linda while Stephanie is closer with Vince. When Shane and Stephanie were growing up, both were being groomed to take over the company one day when Vince stepped aside. Vince was known to be especially hard on Shane at times. In recent years, Stephanie has assumed a much greater role backstage in WWE – working directly with her father on the creative side while Shane assumed a lower-profile role, working on WWE’s Internet presence, international expansion and other corporate functions.

    Stephanie’s influence and bond with Vince have grown over the years, compounded by her marriage to Triple H, arguably the most influential pro wrestler in the world. With Linda recently stepping away from her position as CEO of WWE to campaign for the United States Senate, Shane lost a strong ally and might have seen the writing on the wall.

    Most within WWE seem to think Shane left so he can join his mother Linda McMahon during her U.S. Senate campaign, and to avoid upsetting WWE’s shareholders while helping with the campaign. “Unless he’s going to fund a vanity venture, all signs point to him helping his mother (with the campaign),” said one former WWE employee. “She needs some backup.”

    Another possibility is that Shane left to pursue other business ventures. Shane is a huge fan of mixed martial arts and has tried to convince his father to get involved in the sport over the years.

  • UK’s Celtic Warrior Barri Griffiths Signs With WWE

    Source: Caernarfonherald.co.uk

    Welsh wrestler and actor Barri Griffiths, known in the UK as “Barri 10 foot” and “Celtic Warrior,” has been signed a developmental contract with World Wrestling Entertainment. Griffiths appeared on the U.K. Gladiators’ television show that featured TNA Wrestling star Brutus Magnus.

    CHECK OUT:  Barri Griffiths’ UK Gladiators profile (hilarious)

    In an interview with the UK’s Caernarfon Herald, Griffiths explains how he connected with WWE. “I was preparing for the Paul O’Grady show when someone from the WWE phoned me asking if I could go and see them,” he said. “They were hosting a show at the 02 arena in London at the time so I went down and had a word with them and they said they had an interest in taking me over there.”

    He added, “I was overjoyed, I stayed around for a bit of the show and it was nice to see some of the wrestlers in the flesh. I also met Shane McMahon briefly and shook hands with him.”

    Here’s a look at Barri Griffiths:

    Barri Griffiths
    Image from Caernarfonherald.co.uk

  • Jim Ross Comments On Shane McMahon Leaving WWE

    Jim Ross posted the following message on JRsBarBQ.com on Friday afternoon addressing the news that Shane McMahon is leaving WWE.

    It was announced Friday morning that Shane McMahon has resigned from WWE effective January 1, 2010 to pursue other business opportunities.

    “I feel that this the opportune time to pursue outside business opportunities,” Shane said in a written statement sent to staff and then documented on WWE.com.

    This comes as a major surprise to many including me. Shane is a proud, 4th generation wrestling person who has worked with WWE essentially his entire live starting on the ring crew.

    Shane has always been one of the shining stars within the WWE organization and it will be interesting to see what his next business endeavors entail.

    We’ll keep everyone informed as information becomes available. However, we wish Shane and his family the best in what ever he chooses to do as I have always had a great repore with him and Shahe has earned the respect of all who have worked with him.

    Again, this is a major surprise from within the WWE organization.”

  • Picture Of The Big Show On The Set Of “Knucklehead”

    WWE superstar the Big Show is currently down in New Orleans filming scenes for his new WWE Studios project, “Knucklehead.”

    Actress Melora Hardin, perhaps best known as Jan Levinson on the hit NBC show  “The Office,” has a part in the movie and posted a picture from the set of her with the Big Show and co-star Mark Feuerstein (from USA Network’s “Royal Pains”).

    Check it out:

    Knucklehead

  • WWE SmackDown Preview & *Spoilers* For Tonight (10/16)

    SmackDown *SPOILERS*
    SmackDown *SPOILERS*

    The following matches were taped Tuesday night for tonight’s edition of WWE SmackDown:

    — Bragging Rights Team Smackdown Qualifier: Finlay vs. Mike Knox vs. Dolph Ziggler

    — Bragging Rights Team Smackdown Qualifier: Cryme Tyme vs. The Hart Dynasty

    — Matt Hardy vs. Eric Escobar

    — The Dirt Sheet with John Morrison and The Miz

    — Bragging Rights Team Smackdown Qualifier: Drew McIntyre vs. R-Truth

    — Rey Mysterio vs. Batista

    Plus, appearances by Vince McMahon, Vickie Guerrero, Undertaker, Chris Jericho, CM Punk & more.

    =-=-=-=-=–=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

    WWE SmackDown *SPOILERS* for Tonight
    Report by Adam Parker

    The Dirt Sheet returns on the shows tonight.

    Jim Ross is not at the show. I think it’s Todd Grisham and Michael Cole on commentary.

    Teddy Long came out and introduced the captain of Team Smackdown Chris Jericho, who walked to the ring and cut a promo on John Cena. Jericho said that it’s his responsibility to put a team together that will do everything he says and that his team will defeat the delinquents of DX. There was a big chant for DX and a “You Suck” chant at Jericho.

    Jericho talked about how DX pushes their merchandise and points out all the merchants. He has the DX book in his hand and said, “You know what I think of DX?” and he rips up the book. Out comes Kane to confront Jericho.

    Kane comes out and says “Your team? We need to talk” to Chris Jericho. He says he is the new co-captain of team Smackdown. Jericho says, “Of course you are, I was thinking the same thing” and tries to put Kane over. Kane says that as far as he is concerned, the DX book and DX can all go up in flames.

    Finlay vs. Mike Knox vs. Dolph Ziggler for a spot on Team Smackdown at Bragging Rights was up next. Ziggler actually got a pop. Ziggler pinned Knox after Finlay and Knox hit in the air on a cross body while Finlay had the shillelagh in his hands.

    In a tag team Bragging Rights qualifier match, Cryme Tyme beat The Hart Dynasty when JTG pinned Tyson Kidd. Cryme Tyme is on Team Smackdown at the PPV.

    Chris Jericho, with Michelle McCool, came and said that there will be three Raw vs. Smackdown matches at the PPV and he can’t count on Morrison winning so Jericho asks if he can count on McCool winning her match. McCool says she can beat anyone at any time. Mickie James walked in and said she has a better chance of beating a Raw diva. McCool went to leave and brushed into Beth Phoenix, who told her she won’t be keeping her title for long.

    CM Punk walked into Vince McMahon and said that the Fatal Fourway at the PPV is unfair. Vince agreed and said that he really liked the idea. Punk had last week so he’s making a match for next week: Punk vs. Taker in a submission match with Scott Armstrong as the ref and Teddy Long at ringside.

    Before a Bragging Rights qualifying match, Tony Chimmel introduced Vickie Guerrero. She got a ton of heat, you could barely hear her. She introduced Eric Escobar and as soon as she said his name, people stopped booing and just sat down. Wow. His opponent is Matt Hardy, to a big pop.

    Escobar won after Vickie distracted the ref, rammed Hardy into the turnbuckle and rolled him up. After the match the happy couple posed in the ring.

    They aired a commercial for the new Batista DVD, which comes out this Tuesday.

    John Morrison and The Miz had a really good Dirt Sheet, which ended with a stare-down and Miz backing down and leaving.

    An R Truth-Drew McIntyre promo, followed by Truth walking backstage was next. They met in a match to determine the last spot on Team Smackdown for the PPV.

    McIntyre won via countout after he threw Truth back-first in to the ringside steps.

    We went backstage with Rey Mysterio and Batista. Batista said that he isn’t sure about his match against Rey because they are like brothers. Batista said that they will both have to do what is needed to win at the PPV. Rey said that this is one time he wishes they could team up, but with Punk being so jaded it shouldn’t be too hard and The Underaker, well Rey reminded us that he is a former champ and can do what it takes to win.

    Taker appeared in the Tron. To paraphrase, he said it has been said that history has a way of repeating itself but not in my yard. Teddy Long, Scott Armstrong and Punk are all tempting fate in trying to take the title from Hell’s grip. Once you enter Hell’s Gate, there is no way out and at Bragging Rights Punk, I will take your soul, but next week in their match he will read Punk his last rights.

    Rey vs. Batista is up next. Rey hit the 619 on Dave, then jumped off of the outside rope onto his shoulders, Dave went for a Batista Bomb but Rey turned it into a hurricanrana and got the win. After the match they celebrated together and hugged then Rey pandered to the crowd.

    Batista left the ring and Rey stood on top of the different ring posts posing. Punk came out and hit Rey. Batista came out and made the save. Batista picked Rey up and they left together, posing on the stage.

    Dark Match:

    Taker came out with his fire pyro to take on Punk. Taker looked stiff or like he was walking with a limp.

    It looks like Punk is working his ass off for this match. Taker is taking it easy and to me he visibly looks like he’s hurting. Punk kicked out of the Chokeslam only to lose to the Tombstone. The Undertaker does his typical exit, except he raised his hand that has World Title. Fire erupted on the stage.

    Tong Chimmel thanked us and reminded us how we can watch Smackdown this week.

  • Sound Off 85: But She Only Had To Perform ONE Move!

    1

  • Rumored Raw Guest Host, Goldberg’s Huge Breakfast, Adamle

    1

  • Ric Flair Reveals Vince’s Reaction To Him Wrestling Again

    1

  • Paul Heyman Remembers Lou Albano: Crazy Road Stories

    1

  • Update On WWE War Games, WWE Q3 2009 Financial Results

    1

  • WWE’s Image Change, Taz’ Role In TNA, Stacy Keibler Turns 30

    1

  • JR Blog: His Contract Expiring, NWA Title Auction, Flair-Hogan

    1

  • The Wrestling World Pays Its Respects To Captain Lou Albano

    1

  • WWE Hall Of Famer Captain Lou Albano Has Passed Away

    Captain Lou Albano (Rest in Peace)
    Captain Lou Albano (Rest in Peace)

    We’re sad to report that WWE Hall of Famer Captain Lou Albano (Louis Vincent Albano) has passed away.  He was 76 years old.  His cause of death is still unknown at this time. Earlier this week, his family sent out a statement that he was under hospice care. They said he did not have cancer and asked for supporters to respect his privacy.

    Captain Lou was a one of a kind personality who had a 40+ year career in the wrestling business as a wrestler and manager. His gravely voice, colorful outfits, scruffy beard and facial piercings were among the trademark characteristics that made him impossible to ignore.

    The “manager of champions” guided 15 different tag teams and 4 singles competitors to championship gold. Collaborating with Cyndi Lauper, Albano helped pioneer the Rock ‘n’ Wrestling movement that lead to wrestling’s crossover into mainstream pop culture during the 1980s. Capitalizing on his success, he later ventured into Hollywood with various television, film, and music projects. Many fans will remember him from the Super Mario Brothers Super Show in the early 90s.

    We’d like to extend our deepest sympathy to the friends and family of Captain Lou. He left his mark and he will be missed.

    The following video is an interview from February 2007 that Lou Albano did with the Sports Scene show in New York.  Sports Scene host Charlie Cornacchio met Albano at his home to discuss his careers in pro wrestling and acting.

  • Snoop Dogg Hosting RAW, ECW & Smackdown Main Events

    — Hip hop recording artist Snoop Dogg will be the guest host of next week’s WWE Raw. Fans might remember Snoop hosted the Playboy Bunnymania match at WrestleMania 24 and even got an on-screen kiss from WWE diva Maria at the event.

    — The main event for next week’s WWE Raw, the final raw before WWE Bragging Rights, will be John Cena vs. Triple H in a singles match. WWE is hyping the match could be Cena’s final match on Raw, as he must leave the brand if he can’t defeat Randy Orton in the Iron Man match at Bragging Rights. Cena and Triple H faced each other in the main event of WrestleMania 22.

    — Tonight, WWE heads to Lexington, Kentucky to tape this week’s ECW and SmackDown shows. The following matches were announced on Raw for both shows:

    • The main event of tonight’s “ECW on Syfy” will be ECW Champion Christian teaming with Yoshi Tatsu to face William Regal and Zack Ryder.
    • The main event for Friday’s SmackDown will be Rey Mysterio vs. Batista.

    — Two more matches have been confirmed for WWE Bragging Rights on 10/25.

    • SmackDown vs. RAW Bragging Rights Match: Chris Jericho & Six Smackdown wrestlers to be named vs. Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Big Show, Cody Rhodes, Jack Swagger, Kofi Kingston & the winner of Mark Henry vs. Chris Masters (airing this week on Superstars)
    • Intercontinental Champion John Morrison vs. United States Champion The Miz.