(source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

— Though Triple H’s current absence from television is in due part to filming the upcoming WWE Films project The Chaperone, the word is that he is more hurt than first thought. The extent to which the injuries will delay his planned return to the squared circle are unclear, but sources indicate a rumored SummerSlam feud between him and Edge has been scrapped.

Meanwhile, Edge is expected to miss some house shows during the month of August as he films WWE’s action-oriented comedy Chasing the Hawk.

— One soldier stationed in Iraq says Layla is by far the most popular WWE Superstar when the company goes overseas for its annual Tribute to the Troops event. Though her striking appearance probably doesn’t hurt, the feeling is her popularity is due to how friendly and caring she appears as she takes time to talk to most everyone, making them feel special in the process.

“When she talks to you, she makes you feel like the most important person in the world at that moment, and that there’s no one she’d rather be talking to,” the soldier said.

– As we reported earlier, Triple H is currently in New Orleans filming his first WWE movie, The Chaperone. The Game will in New Orleans for the next three weeks filming and will be off television for a while to sell the beatdown he suffered at the hands of Sheamus at Extreme Rules last month. There is talk that Triple H will be returning in time for SummerSlam in August.

– Actress Yeadley Smith, best known as the voice of “The Simpsons” character Lisa, wrote the following on Twitter about working with Triple H on WWE’s “Chaperone” movie:

“He’s the sweetest, most delightful wall-of-man I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet. Sure, not his persona on the WWE, but He. Is. Wonderful. Today the “heat index” in New Orleans put us at 105%. I almost died. Haha! It warranted white wine & pretzels for dinner. I’d probably lose weight, if not for the wine. Btw, I LOVE Triple H! He is a dream pie!!”

– WWE recently filed a new trademark for “WWE All-Stars”, which is said to be for a new videogame franchise that will feature current WWE superstars and legends from past eras. Jim Ross recently blogged that he and Jerry “The King” Lawler had been working with THQ on voice-over work for the game.

– WWE Hall of Famer Ted DiBiase Sr. had emergency neck surgery yesterday to alleviate pain from a pinched nerve that had been causing him pain in his arm and shoulder. DiBiase is hoping to be out of the hospital on Tuesday or Wednesday.

– WWE Hall of Famer Ricky Steamboat has been working at Florida Championship Wrestling as a trainer. WWE is still looking for another trainer to work at developmental.

Partial sources: f4wonline, pwinsider

WWE has issued the following press release announcing “The Chaperone,” a new WWE Studios film project set to star Triple H:

WWE GETS CHAPERONE

LOS ANGELES May 24 — WWE Studios has acquired “THE CHAPERONE,” by playwright turned screenwriter S. J. Roth. This is the first screenplay sale for Roth who is mostly known for his work on stage, including his off-Broadway and West Coast productions of “SUTTON,” the story of legendary bank robber, Willie Sutton, and comedies “BEN THE PRINTER,” and “BONNIE’S WANTED MAN.”

“THE CHAPERONE” is a kids action comedy about a just released, ex-con dad who unwittingly becomes a chaperone for his teen daughter’s class trip to New Orleans, while he is on the run from his old cronies who are trying to kill him.

Alan Shafer of Careyes Entertainment and attorney Michael Overn represented Roth in the sale.  Steve Barnett, Senior Vice President, Development of WWE Studios handled the deal for studio.  Shoot is tentatively scheduled for Summer 2010, in New Orleans.

(source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

– Current creative plans call for Jack Swagger to defend his World Heavyweight Championship against Undertaker at SummerSlam. A match between Triple H vs. Edge is also being talked about for WWE’s annual summer pay-per-view.

– Rey Mysterio is said to be unhappy with WWE after they prevented AAA from holding a Rey Misterio Jr., Cup this year. Mysterio asked WWE for permission, but turned him down, saying they don’t want him appearing on a AAA show even if it’s merely to present a trophy.

— NXT Rookie David Otunga is scheduled to work SmackDown house shows. Company officials feel he has star potential but want him to get more experience on the road since his wrestling isn’t close to ready.

Last Wednesday, Mick Foley published a blog on his MySpace account criticizing Triple H for mocking Lilian Garcia during her appearance on Raw last month. Garcia was back on Raw to fill in as ring announcer with most of the Raw crew grounded overseas.

The event in question occurred during Hunter’s show-opening monologue on the Apr. 19 Raw in which he made a crack about Garcia “horsing around.” The comment stems from those in the WWE’s “inner circle” often joking that Lilian has a horse-shaped face.

Foley wrote: “Why does someone like Triple H, one of the most talented, well paid guys in the business, do something so shallow and mean? Why would a multi-millionaire, with millions of fans around the world, feel the need (several times over the years) to say something that is only meant to hurt? I don’t get it. I don’t get why it’s done, I don’t get why it’s condoned, I don’t get what possible satisfaction anyone involved gets from demeaning someone like Lillian Garcia. I just don’t get it.”

Breaking her silence on the matter, Garcia wrote the following message to Foley on her Twitter account today: “Mick Foley, this tweet’s for you!! I really appreciate your kind words and the compassion you showed in your blog. Your care for my feelings proves what a loving, caring and wonderful human being you are. This is why I truly miss working with you. You are one of a kind!! Thank you, love you!!”

Foley acknowledged feedback he’s received since last week for chastising Triple H for his dig towards Garcia in a follow-up blog. He acknowledged that he may have cost himself professionally down the road, not to mention that some people may see him as a hypocrite, but felt he had to stand for certain principles in this situation.

Foley explained further: “I could go into great detail about why some of the issues raised (it was innocent joking around on Triple H’s part, I’m a hypocrite because I made fun of Al Snow, Test, etc., where was I during the Mickie James angle?) but I think it would be far more productive for readers to try to figure out the differences for themselves.”

The New York Times ran a story over the weekend confirming that United States astronaut Buzz Aldrin will be serve as Raw guest host on May 17 when the show emanates from Toronto. On July 20, 1969, Aldrin was the second person to set foot on the Moon, following Neil Armstrong.

The feature story on WWE’s guest host concept including interviews with Ryan Phillippe and Maria Menounos, as well as Triple H addressing the company’s decision to make its product more family-friendly. “The Game” said he wouldn’t want his kids to see the antics he pulled off during “The Attitude Era.”

“I’ve got young kids,” he said. “Years ago, we were what we were, and I certainly wouldn’t want to have my young kids watch that product. We’ve evolved.”

— According to those close to Batista, it is not 100% certain that he will be leaving World Wrestling Entertainment, although it is believed that Over the Limit will be his final show.

He was said to be furious that a film project initially based around him was taken from him, particularly since it was at the last minute. He is listening to outside offers and it should be noted that there is interest on the part of TNA. However, the belief is that it is highly unlikely “The Animal” would jump ship to the competition since they would never be able to offer him anything close to what he’s making in WWE, which is in the neighborhood of several million dollars per year.

— Triple H is currently being advertised for a live Raw show taking place on May 31st in Austin, Texas. A match pitting Triple H, Randy Orton and John Cena and The Miz, Big Show and Sheamus is being advertised. However, this will ultimately change considering Big Show is no longer a heel.

— Brett DiBiase, who was scheduled to be called up alongside Joe Hennig to be part of a heel trio on Raw with his brother Ted, suffered a knee injury last Thursday at a Florida Championship Wrestling event in Tampa. He was wrestling Hennig.

source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

TNA star Mick Foley is calling out WWE superstar Triple H for his “shallow” and “mean” joke about Lilian Garcia’s appearance on RAW two weeks ago.

Garcia returned to WWE for one night to guest ring announce when the RAW crew was stranded in Europe. During the opening segment of the show, Triple H had a microphone and went over to her and said, “Even Lillian Garcia. If Lillian wants to come back here for night to the WWE just to horse around, she can do it.” After Triple H’s remarks, Jerry Lawler make a horse sound on commentary. Triple H’s “horsing around” comment reportedly a reference to a backstage joke about Lilian that her face resembles that of a horse.

Foley wrote on his MySpace.com blog that Triple H’s joke was the latest incident in a pattern of cruel on-air behavior from Vince McMahon’s son in law:

“Why does someone like Triple H, one of the most talented, well paid guys in the business, do something so shallow and mean? Why would a multi-millionaire, with millions of fans around the world, feel the need (several times over the years) to say something that is only meant to hurt? I don’t get it. I don’t get why it’s done, I don’t get why it’s condoned, I don’t get what possible satisfaction anyone involved gets from demeaning someone like Lillian Garcia. I just don’t get it.”

– Since his match at WrestleMania with Batista, WWE Champion John Cena has been suffering from back and knee problems.

– In addition to the neck problems Triple H is suffering from right now, one of The Game’s surgically repaired quads is giving him trouble. Right now, Triple H is scheduled to work only television and PPV events. He was kept off WWE’s European tour to rest up for his Street Fight with Sheamus at Extreme Rules.

– Rey Mysterio had to be assisted leaving Tuesday’s television taping in London, England following his show closer dark match with CM Punk.

– John Morrison may have suffered an injury during the company’s ongoing tour as he did not work Tuesday’s SmackDown taping. However, it should be noted that it is not 100% confirmed.

— WWE.com confirmed this week that Ezekiel Jackson underwent successful surgery to repair his torn quadriceps. According to WWE, the recovery process could sideline the final ECW Champion for up to six months. Tough break for the young star.

— In addition to issues with his neck, Triple H is also dealing with issues to his quadriceps, reports Figure Four Weekly Online. Hence, he’s being taken off house shows for the time being, though he will continue to work television. John Cena vs. Sheamus headlined most of the Raw live events this past week in Europe in with Cena going over after a referee bump and a three-count by outside-the-ring enforcer Bret Hart.

— The New York Times is reporting that WWE’s deal with Syfy to broadcast Friday Night SmackDown is for two years, with an option for a third year. WWE also confirmed to The Times that they’re shopping around NXT in anticipation of the show being bumped from Syfy in the fall. It’s also noted that WWE has had “informal talks” with NBC Universal to help launch a WWE-branded cable channel next year.

— John Cena is being advertised for an appearance on NBC’s Today tomorrow morning during the 7:00 p.m. hour.

sources: www.f4wonline.com, pwinsider.com

– Triple H is currently suffering from a neck injury and is only booked for WWE television and pay-per-view events for the next few months.

– Ted DiBiase was busted open at last night’s RAW live event in Ireland during a match with Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes. DiBiase ended up receiving several staples in his head to close the wound.

– The latest on Ezekiel Jackson’s injury from over the weekend is that it might be a torn quad, which would keep him out of action for a while. Jim Ross acknowledged the injury in his latest blog, writing, “Ugh.”

– The Undertaker is currently working a reduced, part-time schedule. While he was booked at last Tuesday’s SmackDown tapings and was the focal point of promoting the tapings, he did not appear.

(Partial credit toF4Wonline.com)

— Triple H is tentatively booked for television and pay-per-view events due to lingering neck problems.

— While Ezekiel Jackson’s injury at yesterday’s SmackDown live event in Glasgow, Scotland has not yet been diagnosed, the early belief is that he suffered a torn quadriceps.

— Ted DiBiase was busted open hard way at yesterday’s Raw live event in Ireland during his bout with Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes, requiring several staples in his head to close the wound.

— Today is Dustin “Goldust” Runnels’ birthday as he turns 41 years old.

source: www.f4wonline.com

– As we’ve been covering this week, Triple H has not been wrestling on WWE’s European tour despite being advertised. The Game missed another show last night in Glasgow, UK. Dave Meltzer notes that Triple H is suffering from a neck injury which is likely why he isn’t on the current tour.

– The episode of NBC’s Chuck featuring Steve Austin will air again this coming Monday night.

– Trent Baretta and Caylen Croft are now using the name “The Dudebusters” on SmackDown. This is the same name they used with Curt Hawkins in Florida Championship Wrestling.

In an interview with WWE.com following WrestleMania XXVI, Triple H strongly endorsed his opponent Sheamus and hinted at a rematch with the Celtic Warrior.

Triple H said, “I tell you what, there’s nothing I like better than a good fight. I look forward to getting back in the ring with Sheamus.”

Hunter said Sheamus has that “it” factor to be a top star in the company and showed the world at WrestleMania that he deserves his spot as one of WWE’s top up and coming stars.

“A lot of things go on in this business; a lot of things are said to get to WrestleMania. On the way here, I said if Sheamus didn’t beat me, he would fall into a pit of obscurity. Not going to happen,” Hunter said. “He has something I haven’t seen in a long time in this business. He reminds me of the way I started when I got into this business.”

Click here to see video of the interview.

— Triple H is reportedly dealing with minor pain in his quadriceps, although he is not expected to miss any ring time for the time being. However, there is a chance he’ll need to get the ailment taken care of over the summer.

— It’s being said that two more names besides Stu Hart will be announced for this year’s WWE Hall of Fame class — one for each Raw leading up to Wrestlemania.

— WWE producer Gerald Brisco will be scouting the NCAA Wrestling Tournament on Mar. 20 in Omaha, Nebraska.

(Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

sources: Wrestling Observer Newsletter, PWInsider.com

— There is talk once again of turning Triple H heel as he is looking at doing so later this year. This was something talked about last year but put on the back burner due to the most recent DX reunion.

— The Feb. 5th edition of Friday Night SmackDown scored a 1.8 broadcast rating, it’s lowest number in a while. The show drew 3,159,000 overall viewers.

— As reported yesterday, Drew McIntyre’s backstage nickname is Avatar, apparently because of the joke that his fiancé (former ECW General Manager Tiffany) controls him. This tidbit was brought to Chris Jericho’s attention with the WWE World Heavyweight Champion saying on Twitter, “Tru Dat. Looks just like a NaVi.”

— The Houston Chronicle ran a story this past week on Triple H notably saying he knew he made it as a WWE Superstar when he held the first action figure of himself.

“It’s a huge moment for any of the guys. We all played with action figures when we were growing up. So to get yourself to the point where you’re immortalized with an action figure is a pretty cool thing,” ‘H candidly said. “It’s like having a statue of yourself. It’s a feeling of, wow, I’ve really made it. To be included as a figure that the company thinks people will buy, it’s huge.”

— WWE will feature a live chat during tonight’s Elimination Chamber pay-per-view with the winner of tonight’s Divas Championship bout between Maryse and Gail Kim joining the festivities. Joey Styles, Howard Finkel and the one and only Corey Clayton, among others, will also be on hand. Click here for more information.

— On Twitter, Michelle McCool has posted a photo of herself alongside the McCool clan at the following link.

— WWE returns to the Sports Palace in Mexico City, Mexico on Thursday, May 6th, 2010 at 8:30 p.m. and Saturday, May 8th, 2010 at 8 p.m. Tickets for both events go on sale Monday, March 8th, 2010 at 11 a.m. (Thanks to Devin Cutting)

— Beginning Apr. 13 in New Orleans, WWE Studios will shoot a new film called Killing Karma.

The crime drama film stars a character named AJ who is determined to make a new life for himself after being released from prison, but fate intervenes. His best friend inadvertently shoots a guy, and soon AJ is scrambling to protect his buddy, his buddy’s wife and daughter, all while scrambling to keep one step ahead of a vendetta-driven mobster.

No word yet on which WWE star will star in the film.

— Marketwatch.com has a story on Triple H unveiling his new Mattel action figure this past week at the New York Toy Fair.

— WWE returns to the John Labatt Centre in London, Ontario, Canada on Sunday, May 16th, 2010 at 5 PM. Tickets go on sale Saturday, March 13th, 2010 at 10 AM. (Thanks to Devin Cutting)

— WWE sent out a press release on Monday announcing that Triple H will be appearing at New York Toy Fair this Friday morning at the Javitz Center in New York City. Triple H will be there to promote WWE’s new line of Mattel toys and is advertised to appear at 9:30am.

— WWE star the Big Show will be starring in the upcoming WWE Studios comedy “Knucklehead,” which hits theaters in October. Big Show posted a picture on Twitter of himself dressed in a pink tutu with a wig on. The caption reads, “Thanks for all the Birthday wishes, guys! Here is a funny pic from Knucklehead. Pink is not my color.” To see the picture, click here.

— Upcoming WWE Raw guest hosts Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong appeared on Arizona’s KQRS-FM radio station this morning. According to a reader who heard their appearance, the duo was funny and barely had any idea what WWE RAW was. (Source: Prowrestling.net)

– Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will be appearing on Friday’s edition of “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” It will be Johnson’s first time on the program. Musical star Pink, whose Grammy performance grabbed headlines last weekend, will appear as the music guest. For more information, visit Oprah.com.

– After Beth Phoenix made comments about Chyna this past Sunday night, she wrote the following on her Twitter yesterday:

“I’m told I hurt Chyna’s feelings with my comments. Oops!”

– WWE Studios will be holding open casting calls this weekend for the lead role in their upcoming “Big Red” movie. The part calls for a male between the ages 13-16. The casting calls take place in Los Angeles on Saturday and New York on Sunday. If you fit the bill and are interested, visit WWE.com.

– The official theme song for WWE’s Elimination Chamber pay-per-view is Rise Up by Cypress Hill.

– John Cena will be appearing on Nickelodeon’s True Jackson VP soon.

– Triple H will be at the International Toy Fair in New York City next week to promote WWE’s new Mattel Toy line.

— WKYT-TV/CWKYT is reporting that the WWE Extreme Rules pay-per-view on May 23rd, 2010 has been moved to Detroit, Michigan. The originally announced location was Oakland, California. (Thanks to Devin Cutting)

— Chris Jericho announced on his Twitter account that “Fozzy” will be doing a U.K. tour this May.

Four shows have been for announced for Glasgow, Scotland on May 13, Nottingham on May 14, and two shows in London on May 15. Ticket information has not yet been announced.

“Fozzy” released its Chasing the Grail album last week.

— Muscle & Fitness is running a contest to determines its 2009 cover of the year. You can make a champion out of Triple H’s September cover via poll at the following link.