Posts Tagged ‘Vince McMahon’

Ken Shamrock On Vince McMahon vs. Dana White, WWE Title, Being Snubbed By UFC

The following are highlights from a recent interview with former WWE Superstar and UFC Hall Of Famer Ken Shamrock:

On Vince McMahon versus Dana White as businessmen: “Vince McMahon is the type of guy that if you’re doing business for him, he’ll pat you on the back and be nice to you, but you know where you stand. Either you’re making money for him or you’re not. And that’s the way it is. He never lied to me, not that I know of… You can take someone that Vince didn’t like, If he found a way to make money with him, he’d put him on the show. It was about business. He would find a way to make it work. Like he did with Bret Hart. They didn’t get along for the longest time. But Vince knew he could use him to make money and Bret knew he could make money. So even though at times they weren’t on the same page, they still did business. That’s what Dana lacks. He doesn’t know how to put aside his feelings and not take everything personal and do business even with people you don’t like.”

On why he was never WWE Champion: “To this day, I don’t know. I thought when I was doing the angle with the Rock… and he went on after I ended up getting the (intercontinental) belt, he ended up going on and facing Stone Cold and some of the other guys and ended up getting the belt, I thought I would move up and go after him because of what we had done prior to that… it just never flourished. It seemed like I went in the other direction. I thought I did everything right, that I was in a good position to make those moves. I really don’t know.”

On being snubbed by UFC regarding their 20th anniversary: “There’s a lot of guys not involved. If you look at the history of the UFC prior to Zuffa, it’s almost like they’re banished… Just look at some of the guys out there that were really fighting four times in one night, bare-knuckled, no rules. It really made the UFC and the grounds of the UFC to be what it is today. Today, it’s a little more sanctioned, but really was raw and it really was guys that were put in there, putting it all on the line, for no money. But you don’t see any of these guys being recognized. You don’t see any of these names- I saw Don Frye at a fight the other night, and he was sitting out in the audience. He wasn’t even inside the cage. It breaks my heart when I see these things because all these promoters walk around with these nice little suits on, acting like they’re big shots, and they’re inside the ring. And you have some of these young fighters, who are up and coming, in there trying to promote the next fight, you’ve got celebrities on the inside, all the fine ladies on the inside. Then you got guys like Don Frye, myself, and a few other guys, sitting outside the cage… none of these people would be walking around thinking they’re big shots if it wasn’t for those guys who put it all on the line, because they loved what they did. But we don’t show them any love. It’s like they completely forget about the past and move forward. They suck it dry, keep doing the things they want to do, but don’t remember the past.”

Check out the complete interview online at ShiningWizards.com.

  • News On A Possible Ken Shamrock Return To WWE + 2014 WWE HOF Inductee Rumors
  • HBK On Clashes With McMahon, Offers Advice To Undersized Wrestlers, Says He Created ‘Pipe Bombs’

    The December 2013 issue of WWE Magazine features an in-depth interview with Shawn Michaels, who weighed in on his most memorable matches and how he became one of the greatest wrestlers of all-time. Without mentioning Daniel Bryan by name, he addresses the topic of undersized WWE Superstars being overlooked for main event positions and how he personally responded to Vince McMahon’s perceptions at a time when larger-than-life individuals ruled the promotion.

    On fighting an uphill battle to stand out in WWE, Michaels states, “I’m always slightly amused by how people talk about how so-and-so ‘isn’t big enough.’ And hoe someone is fighting an uphill battle because of his size. You don’t know the first thing about an uphill battle. Try doing it in 1994 and 1995, even earlier than that. Try doing it back when there hadn’t been—with all due respect—me complaining about how size shouldn’t matter. Now there’s a list of guys as long as my arm who complain about getting looked over.

    “When I got here, I didn’t have a name. I didn’t have a legacy. I didn’t have a famous family. And there was only one guy who was gonna kick down the door and piss and moan until—quite frankly, and thankfully—the old man finally relented. Ha ha.”

    Michael lays claim to being the originator of the ‘pipe bomb,’ which he used to push the Chairman’s buttons in the mid-1990s.

    “I also chuckle at the notion of a ‘pipe bomb’ being something new. Back in 1994, 1995, and 1996, those were the original ‘pipe bombs,’ said Michaels. “That’s one of the things we were pushing for back then—bringing more of the reality of the situation to the forefront. I used to say stuff and The Chairman had no idea what was coming out. It’s just different now. We were also privately owned then. That’s why we just got yelled at, not fired. (Laughs)”

    Ironically, Michaels doing away with his rebellious personality upon his return to the promotion in 2002 and becoming a ‘model employee’ incensed McMahon.

    “Now, my faith and my family are what’s important. I’m not sure Mr. McMahon’s aware there is a life outside WWE. Over the years, he and I butted heads many times behind the scenes. And, honestly, I think there was a part of him that liked those confrontations. So when I came back (in 2002), and had re-prioritized my life, I was actually sort of a ‘model employee.’ That’s what sent him over the edge with me,” said Michaels.

    New Diva At NXT Tonight, Big E Langston News, WWE Movie Nominated

    – WWE Hall of Famers Edge and Shawn Michaels were interviewed yesterday for future issues of WWE Magazine.

    – Vince McMahon tweeted the following message on Thursday about the WWE Studios film “The Call” being nominated for”Favorite Thriller Movie” at this year’s People’s Choice Awards:

    – Big E Langston has commented on his advertised match against Curtis Axel not taking place on this week’s episode of WWE Main Event:

    – Alexa Bliss, Sasha Banks and Leo Kruger will be meeting fans before the WWE NXT live event in Jacksonville, Florida at the Jacksonville Armory tonight.

    HHH To Appear On HBK’s Show, Vince McMahon Writes Book Foreword, Scott Hall

    – Former WWE Superstar Scott Hall, along with his son Cody Hall, are accepting booking requests for 2014 through their company, “HallGood Entertainment.” Promoters interested in booking either of the Hall’s can do so via e-mail at Scott@Razor4Life.com on by tweeting @Cody_Hall1.

    – WWE CEO Vince McMahon will be writing the foreword to the new WWE 50th Anniversary book, which is scheduled to be released in March of 2014.

    – WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels recently responded to a fan on Twitter that asked him if WWE COO Triple H would be making any future appearances on his hunting show, “MacMillian River Adventures.” HBK tweeted the following:

  • DIRECT LINK: Backstage News On HHH Flipping Out At RAW On Monday
  • Lex Luger Speaks On Internet Rumors, Never Being WWE Champion, Russo & More

    The following are highlights from a recent Lex Luger interview with Steve and the Scum of WGD Weekly:

    On the passing of Miss Elizabeth: “It was a very dark, sad time in my personal life…I’ve made a lot of bad choices outside of the ring over the years that led to me giving up my family, my beautiful wife and two children…I developed a double life and there was a lot of collateral damage from that to my friends, my family and those closest to me including Miss Elizabeth. She always will be the first lady of wrestling…it was a real tragedy, I was living a lifestyle back then, a lot of drugs, alcohol, I call it the life of folly in my book, it led to a lot of tragic things and that was the biggest tragedy you could ever think of to have a close friend like Elizabeth as a result of it. People say well Lex, you didn’t make her drink or shove pills down her throat, but I was a very big influence on her life at the time and I was doing that and she wanted to do what I did, so if you talk about regrets in the past guys, we can’t erase the past and we have got to take responsibility and I take a lot of responsibility for that tragic event and what happened.”

    On Vince McMahon buying WCW and the last edition of Nitro: “I was happy for Vince because I knew, man, he had won, that was a genuine moment for him, I was like, yeah, buddy, everybody had you counted out there when we were beating you for “x” amount of weeks straight, I was happy for him.”

    On WrestleMania X, not becoming WWE Champion and internet rumors: “Contrary to what is said, Vince never promised me the belt…he never made me any promises at WrestleMania between Bret, or I, or Yoko…nor did I expect him to make any, why would he, I was thrilled to be a part of the main event of WrestleMania…it’s funny I was talking to a guy in an interview recently and a guy said, ‘It was on your Wikipedia that you were drunk the night before at a bar at WrestleMania 10 and you were supposed to win the belt and Vince got mad at you,’ I wasn’t even anywhere near New York. I was with my wife and two kids in Hartford, Connecticut, staying with friends the night before WrestleMania…I did a lot of stupid stuff back then, but that wasn’t one of them…rumor becomes fact sometimes, I laughed at that for years, of all the stupid dumb stuff I did outside of the ring, that was one that I didn’t do…I always found that humorous, crazy how rumors can start…Who came up with that one?”

    On Vince Russo coming in as head writer for WCW: “I think that Russo and Ferrara did their best to create a young, fresh group of guys, kind of doing an invasion like the now did and really on paper, a pretty good idea. They had a great reputation coming from the WWF for being very creative, really when we found ourselves slipping, consensus wise most of the guys were pretty excited that they were coming in and I think they gave it their very best effort, and the young guys came in and gave it their best effort, I think part of the problem was for when the young guys, when they came in and were beating these legendary guys like Hogan…in the middle of the ring…I think the fans as much as they love seeing young talent emerge, I think it was almost like a little bit too much too soon in my opinion and the fans didn’t really buy into it like they had hoped. It was a good idea but the fans didn’t quite buy into it…they did their best, but things just didn’t work out the way they hoped, it wasn’t from a lack of effort on the new guys part, the writers or the young wrestlers, it just didn’t get over the way they had hoped…but I didn’t think it was a bad idea.”

    On Ric Flair and being in the Four Horsemen: “Ric lived his persona both in the ring and out of the ring, I found that out right away, I feel like for about three years there hanging out with the Horseman, I feel like I didn’t sleep for almost three years…Ric could stay up all night…then he go to the gym and work out with me, then he go and wrestle and hour broadway, I don’t know how he did it…Ric will always tell you image is everything, he always had a limo waiting for us, we flew usually private or if we flew commercial, first class, stay at really nice hotels…Ric was everything he said he was both in and out of the ring, that’s for sure.”

    On Ric Flair leaving WCW and taking their world title to WWE with him: “I was scheduled to wrestle Ric in the cage and I was scheduled to win the title that night…I wasn’t told a lot, but they told me, we’re putting you in the cage with Ric and you’re winning the world title…as far as what happened after that, it was political stuff behind the scenes that I was not privy to, I heard that Ric was trying to negotiate a new contract, and I wanted the best for Ric, so when Ric ended up on television with the belt in the competing organization, I never had any hard feelings about that because I knew Ric had worked so hard and had such an incredible career, he was trying to do what was best for him and his family, from a business sense, I never took it personally…I was disappointed I didn’t get to wrestle Ric in the cage to win the world title, but I wasn’t upset with Ric that he went and did what he had to do and what he thought was best business wise for Ric Flair…WCW at the time, they were negotiating with Ric almost right up until the day of the match …to still come in and do the match, it just fell apart at the last minute…Ric almost was WCW, so for Ric to leave was a huge void and vacuum that myself and nobody could possibly even entertain the thought of replacing…they didn’t even have a belt ready yet…I think a lot of the guys were disappointed that Ric wasn’t there, but the show must go on.”

    You can listen to the complete Lex Luger interview below:

    Details On Surprise Entrants In The 2014 WWE Royal Rumble Match

    Road Warrior Animal Talks Past Issues With Vince McMahon, The L.O.D. “Look”

    The following are highlights from a recent interview with Road Warrior Animal:

    On the origins of the Road Warrior look: “We were sitting there with Bill Watts and Ole Anderson. At the time, Bill Watts had just gave Dewey, the Missing Link the paint. Down there in Louisiana, they said we want you guys to put a couple lines on your face. Then Hawk came up with the brilliant idea, hey, why doesn’t Animal get a Mohawk and I’ll do the reverse Mohawk, so we can look like we can plug our heads into each other. I said, ‘man, are you friggin’ nuts?’ But, we ended up doing it and it worked. Later on, I did the spikes in my garage, next thing you know, we had the spiked shoulder pads.”

    On The Road Warriors refusing to drop the Tag-Team Titles to The Fabulous Ones: “You guys know our gimmick, we are street fighters. They wanted to do a finish called the ‘switch-a-roo.’ I kept looking to Paul, we were in the locker room and I said, ‘man, that ain’t right. It just doesn’t feel right.’ They give us the finish in the locker room, we say, ‘ok, we’re gonna do it, we go to the ring.’ First thing Hawk says to Keirn and Lane, he says, ‘We ain’t doin’ the finish. Listen to us and nobody will get hurt.’ We came back to the locker room and Greg Gagne is yelling. Verne come down to the locker room and says, ‘Jeez, nobody has changed a finish on me in 25 years.’ I said, ‘Well Verne, first time for everything, we just did.”

    On the team jumping-ship to WWE and his initial dealings with Vince McMahon: “At the time Vince had the Ultimate Warrior. At first he tried to tell us, nobody knows who you are up here. I said, ‘Vince, come on, they know who we are.’ He said, ‘well, I gotta change your name, I can’t call you the Road Warriors, I got the Ultimate Warrior.’ Hawk and I were thinking, ‘that’s kind of dumb that he is acting like this.’ So, we said, ‘how about the Legion of Doom?’ And we used that, at the time, there was no rhyme or reason to anything he did. I was just literal chaos. People that you think should be wrestling each other were not wrestling each other and it was just the opposite, the other way around. I even cornered Vince McMahon one time, I told him I feel like you’re backing us in a corner here and you’re really starting to piss me off.”

    You can listen to the complete interview below:

    Former Tag-Team Champion CONFIRMS That He’s RE-FILING A Lawsuit Against WWE

    Former Champion To Refile Lawsuit Against Vince McMahon, Calls Him “Low-Life”

    Former AWA World Tag-Team Champion Doug Somers claimed during a recent Undisputed Wrestling Show interview that he plans to refile his lawsuit against WWE over alleged unpaid royalties he feels he is owed.

    “I am refiling,” Somers said of the lawsuit. “He [Vince McMahon] is not going to get away with it. He bought my lawyer. To be that conquerer in any business or sport, you have to be a low-life son of a bitch, and he [Vince McMahon] is.”

    During the interview, Somers also spoke about how he is suffering from amnesia and Parkinson’s Disease due to multiple concussions he suffered in the ring during his pro wrestling career.

    You can check out the complete Doug Somers interview online at BlogTalkRadio.com.

    DIRECT LINK TO GALLERY: Former WWE & TNA Star Gets Married — Wedding Photos Here!

    John Cena Answers The Question, “Is Vince McMahon As Crazy As He Seems?”

    In a recent “Mac Attack” radio show interview, WWE Superstar John Cena was asked the question, “Is Vince McMahon as crazy as he seems?” The following is Cena’s response to that question:

    Crazy smart. That guy is truly a genius. Being able to take small-town promotions that started out in Charlotte, or in Boston, or in Florida, centralize the whole thing, get the whole world to watch it – we’re talking about the World Series here, but WWE is a global company. We’ll be in Charlotte on Tuesday, but we’re taking off to the U.K. and Europe right after that. We tour India, we tour China, we tour South America, Africa – it’s a global company. Yes, he’s crazy, but crazy like a fox.”

    You can check out the complete “Mac Attack” interview with John Cena online at CBSLocal.com.

    DIRECT LINK TO ARTICLE: John Cena Talks About Pooping His Pants In WWE (No Joke) — Read Here!

    Vince McMahon At WWE HQ Gym (Photo), WWE App Update

    WWE CEO Vince McMahon tweeted the following photo of himself at the gym at WWE Headquarters:

    -Speaking of McMahon’s official Twitter account, he recently tweeted this one, which contains an update on the WWE App:

    DIRECT LINK TO ARTICLE: How Much Stephanie McMahon’s New WWE Contract Is Worth

    Full Details From WWE Third Quarter Financial Results, Vince McMahon Comments

    WWE issued the following on Thursday:

    PRESS RELEASE
    Oct. 31, 2013, 8:30 a.m. EDT
    WWE(R) Reports 2013 Third Quarter Results

    STAMFORD, Conn., Oct 31, 2013 (BUSINESS WIRE) — WWE WWE +8.53% today announced financial results for its third quarter ended September 30, 2013. Revenues increased $9.1 million or 9%, to $113.3 million from $104.2 million in the prior year quarter driven by a significant increase in rights fees from the licensing of television content. Operating income decreased 36% to $3.2 million as compared to $5.0 million in the prior year quarter as revenue growth was more than offset by increased movie losses due to a $7.0 million impairment charge primarily associated with the Company’s 2010-2012 film release slate, and reduced profits from the Company’s pay-per-view, video game and home entertainment businesses. Net income was $2.4 million, or $0.03 per share, as compared to $3.5 million, or $0.05 per share, in the prior year quarter. Excluding the impact of film impairments, Adjusted Operating income increased 104% to $10.2 million, Adjusted OIBDA increased 62% to $16.7 million and Adjusted Net income increased 100% to $7.0 million.

    “During the third quarter, our achievements were highlighted by the production and monetization of new content, including the original series, Total Divas, the expansion of pay-per-view distribution on the Sony PlayStation 3 platform, and the formation of new partnerships with blue-chip sponsors such as General Mills and Kraft,” stated Vince McMahon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “These accomplishments reflect the strength of our brands, including a national television audience that exceeds the annual reach of most other sports and entertainment programs. This strength provides a solid foundation for the renegotiation of our TV contracts and the potential launch of a WWE network. Based on our ability to create powerful, entertaining content and to expand distribution, we strongly believe that we are poised to transform our business.”

    “Given the rising value of live content that has a broad, loyal following, we are confident that we will be able to negotiate our key domestic agreements by the end of April next year and that our efforts, including the potential launch of a WWE network, will keep us on track to double or triple our 2012 OIBDA results of $63 million by 2015,” added George Barrios, Chief Financial Officer. “As we strive to transform our earnings profile, we believe that our 2013 OIBDA results, excluding the impact of film impairments, will fall within the previously communicated range of $40-$50 million.”

    Comparability of Results

    For the third quarter of 2013, OIBDA results include $7.0 million in film impairment charges primarily related to the Company’s 2010-2012 film release slate. OIBDA results for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 include $11.7 million in film impairment charges and an approximate $3.4 million positive impact from the transition of the Company’s video game business to a new licensee in 2013. Results for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 included a $0.8 million film impairment charge and an approximate $4 million benefit due to the recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits. In order to facilitate an analysis of financial results on a comparable basis, where noted, year-to-date results have been adjusted to exclude these items. (See Schedule of Adjustments in Supplemental Information).

    Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 – Results by Region and Business Segment

    Revenues of $113.3 million grew 9% versus the prior year quarter as the Company experienced growth both in North America and in international markets. North American revenues increased 9% from the prior year quarter driven by the production and licensing of new television programs. Revenues from outside North America increased 7% driven by the impact of scheduling seven additional events in international markets, and contractual increases in international television agreements, which more than offset lower sales of licensed consumer products. Revenue in the current year quarter was negatively impacted by approximately $1 million due to changes in foreign exchange rates.

    Live and Televised Entertainment

    Revenues from Live and Televised Entertainment businesses increased 13% to $89.5 million primarily due to the expansion of rights fees from the production and licensing of new television programming, contractual increases from existing programs and changes in the mix of live events.

    — Live Event revenues increased 10% to $25.0 million primarily due to changes in the mix of events, with a higher proportion of international events, which are typically characterized by higher average attendance and ticket prices than events in North America.

    — There were 76 total events in the quarter, including 62 events in North America and 14 events in international markets, as compared to 77 events in the prior year quarter, including 70 events in North America and 7 events in international markets.

    — North American events generated revenues of $17.5 million as compared to $17.0 million in the prior year quarter representing an increase of $0.5 million as a 9% rise in average ticket prices to $46.78 and 6% higher average attendance to 5,500 attendees were partially offset by the scheduling of eight fewer events in the quarter.

    — International live events generated revenues of $7.5 million as compared to $5.8 million in the prior year quarter, with the scheduling of 7 additional events in the quarter. Partially offsetting the impact of holding more events, average international ticket prices decreased 26% to $72.30 and average attendance decreased 20% to approximately 6,700 from 8,400 in the prior year quarter. The decreases in average ticket price and average attendance were due in part to changes in territory mix as the incremental events in the period were concentrated in South Africa, a region that has shown a high proportion of WWE fans, but that has experienced significant economic challenges. In addition, changes in foreign exchange rates contributed to the reduction in average ticket price.

    — Venue Merchandise revenues decreased 11% to $4.0 million from $4.5 million in the prior year quarter primarily due to a 9% reduction in total domestic (U.S.) attendance, reflecting fewer events during the quarter and an 11% decline in per capita merchandise sales at those events to $9.53 in the current year quarter.

    — Pay-Per-View revenues were $14.6 million as compared to $16.3 million in the prior year quarter, down 10%, primarily due to the performance of the Company’s SummerSlam event, which contributed to a 9% reduction in buys for the comparable quarter events.

    — Television revenues increased 30% to $44.1 million from $34.0 million in the prior year quarter primarily due to the production and monetization of new programs, including Total Divas and WWE Main Event, and to a somewhat lesser degree, contractual increases for existing programs both domestically and internationally. Total Divas, a new original series, began airing on the E! Network in July, 2013 while WWE Main Event was licensed to and began airing on ION Television in the fourth quarter 2012.

    Consumer Products

    Revenues from Consumer Products businesses decreased 15% to $13.4 million from $15.8 million in the prior year quarter, primarily due to declines in the Company’s video game licensing and Home Entertainment businesses as described below.

    — Licensing revenues were $5.7 million as compared to $7.1 million in the prior year quarter, driven primarily by a 24% reduction in video game shipments that resulted in a $1.3 million decline in video game royalties. Shipments of the Company’s annual franchise video game, WWE ’13, which was the last release developed by THQ, declined to 178,000 units as compared to 233,000 units for the corresponding game in the prior year quarter. Royalties from the sale of toy and apparel products were essentially flat to the prior year quarter, as modest growth in the U.S. was offset by lower sales in international markets. Additionally, a new installment of the Company’s video game, WWE 2K14, was released by Take-Two Interactive in late October 2013.

    — Home Entertainment net revenues were $5.2 million as compared to $6.4 million in the prior year quarter. Domestic home entertainment revenue fell approximately $0.8 million, or 15%, reflecting a 23% decline in shipments to approximately 720,000 units with 5 fewer releases in the quarter (7 in Q3 2013 vs. 12 in Q3 2012). The decline in shipments was partially offset by a 4% increase in the average price per unit to $11.41. Revenue from international licensing activities declined by approximately $0.4 million reflecting lower sales in Canada and the transition to a new licensee in the EMEA region.

    — Magazine Publishing net revenues were $1.5 million as compared to $1.6 million in the prior year quarter.

    Digital Media

    Revenues from Digital Media businesses increased 15% to $8.6 million as compared to $7.5 million in the prior year quarter.

    — WWE.com revenues increased 19% to $5.7 million in the quarter due to higher sales of advertising and digital content, including the Company’s pay-per-view events, across various digital platforms. Supporting the growth in advertising, key digital metrics such as unique visitors to the Company’s website and mobile app, average monthly page views, and CPMs (a measure of pricing) increased from the prior year quarter. The Company launched digital distribution of its pay-per-view events on the Microsoft Xbox Live on the Xbox 360 in April 2013 and on the Sony Entertainment Network on PlayStation 3 in August 2013.

    — WWEShop revenues increased to $2.9 million in the quarter as compared to $2.7 million in the prior year quarter based on an 11% increase in the volume of online merchandise sales to approximately 59,800 orders. The average revenue per order increased 2% to $48.87 in the current year quarter.

    WWE Studios

    WWE Studios recognized revenue of $1.8 million as compared to revenue of $1.9 million in the prior year quarter reflecting the timing of results generated by the Company’s overall portfolio of movies. Five films have been released during the first nine months of 2013, which compares to three releases during the first nine months of 2012. Revenues for current projects will be recognized on a net basis as participation statements are received from distribution partners rather than upon release as was the case with the Company’s self-distributed movies. In general, for movies that are not self-distributed, the Company does not expect to begin recognizing revenue until four to six months after release. As such, the recognition of revenue related to the most recent releases, including 12 Rounds 2: Reloaded and The Call is not expected to begin until the fourth quarter 2013 or early 2014.

    Based on an evaluation of the Company’s film assets, an impairment charge of $7.0 million was recognized in the quarter. The impairment charge, which primarily relates to the movies released over the 2010 through 2012 period, was driven recent performance of these titles. As a result of the impairment, WWE Studios generated a loss of $7.4 million compared to a loss of $2.0 million in the prior year quarter, which included no film impairment charges. Excluding the impact of film impairment charges, the WWE Studios’ movie portfolio generated an adjusted loss of $0.4 million compared to a loss of $2.0 million in the prior year quarter.

    Unallocated SG&A

    Unallocated SG&A expense was $27.3 million for the current year quarter as compared to $28.2 million in the prior year quarter. The decrease in expense was driven by a $2.1 million year-over-year reduction in accrued management incentive compensation based on current expectations of the Company’s 2013 financial performance, which were revised during the quarter, and by a $0.5 million reduction in bad debt expense. These items were partially offset by a $1.3 million increase in consulting and professional fees and a $0.5 million increase in salary and benefits.

    Operating Income Before Depreciation and Amortization (OIBDA)

    OIBDA declined $0.6 million, or 6%, to $9.7 million as an increase of television rights fees was more than offset by film impairments, the relatively weak performance of the SummerSlam pay-per-view and lower results from the video game business. Profits from television increased $6.3 million with the production and licensing of programs, such as the third hour of Raw, WWE Main Event and Total Divas, and contractual increases from existing programs. Results of film operations reflected $7.0 million in impairments primarily related to the Company’s 2010-2012 film slate (as described above). Pay-per-view profits declined $1.4 million driven by a 17% reduction in buys for the Company’s SummerSlam event, and profits from the Company’s licensing business declined $0.7 million with lower sales of video games in both domestic and international markets. Favorably impacting the quarter’s results was a year-over-year reduction in accrued management incentive compensation that was based on revised expectations for the Company’s full year performance, which partially offset the rise in compensation and other overhead costs.

    Based on the impact of film impairments and resulting changes in business mix, the Company’s OIBDA margin was 9% in the quarter as compared to 10% in the prior year quarter. Excluding the impact of film impairments, Adjusted OIBDA was $16.7 million in the period as compared to $10.3 million in the prior year period, and the Adjusted OIBDA margin was 15% in the current period as compared to 10% in the prior year period. (See Schedules of Adjustments in Supplemental Information).

    Depreciation and amortization

    Depreciation and amortization expense totaled $6.5 million for the current year quarter as compared to $5.3 million in the prior year quarter. The increase in depreciation and amortization expense derived from investment in assets to support the Company’s content initiatives including efforts to launch a potential network.

    Investment Income, Interest and Other Income, Net

    Investment income, interest and other income, net yielded an expense of $0.1 million compared to $0.0 million in the prior year quarter.

    Effective tax rate

    In the current quarter, the effective tax rate was 27% as compared to 30% in the prior year quarter. The effective tax rates in the current and prior year quarters were positively impacted by the recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits.

    Summary Results for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013

    Total revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 were $389.6 million as compared to $368.9 million in the prior year period. Operating income for the current year period was $18.1 million versus $40.7 million in the prior year period. Net income was $10.7 million, or $0.14 per share, as compared to $30.8 million, or $0.41 per share, in the prior year period. OIBDA was $35.9 million for the current nine month period as compared to $54.7 million in the prior year period.

    Excluding items that impacted comparability on a year-over-year basis, Adjusted Operating income was $26.4 million compared to $41.5 million in the prior year period, and Adjusted Net income was $16.1 million, or $0.21 per share, compared to $27.2 million, or $0.36 per share, in the prior year period.

    Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 – Results by Region and Business Segment

    Revenues increased 6% to $389.6 million as growth from North America was partially offset by declines from WWE’s international markets. Revenues from North America increased 9% primarily due to the licensing of new television and digital content and an increase in the number and pricing of live events. Revenues from outside North America declined 6% primarily due to a reduction in the number of international live events and the timing of the Company’s live event tour in Latin America as well as lower revenue from the sale of licensed products and home entertainment. Excluding revenue from Live Events, revenues from outside North America declined 2% in aggregate from the prior year period. There was no significant impact from changes in foreign exchange rates in the current year period.

    Live and Televised Entertainment

    Revenues from Live and Televised Entertainment businesses were $294.7 million for the current year period as compared to $271.8 million in the prior year period, representing an increase of 8%.

    Consumer Products

    Revenues from Consumer Products businesses were $62.3 million for the current year period as compared to $67.4 million in the prior year period, representing a decrease of 8%.

    Digital Media

    Revenues from Digital Media businesses were $26.8 million as compared to $22.4 million in the prior year period, representing an increase of 20%.

    PRESS RELEASE
    Oct. 31, 2013, 8:30 a.m. EDT
    WWE(R) Reports 2013 Third Quarter Results

    STAMFORD, Conn., Oct 31, 2013 (BUSINESS WIRE) — WWE WWE +8.53% today announced financial results for its third quarter ended September 30, 2013. Revenues increased $9.1 million or 9%, to $113.3 million from $104.2 million in the prior year quarter driven by a significant increase in rights fees from the licensing of television content. Operating income decreased 36% to $3.2 million as compared to $5.0 million in the prior year quarter as revenue growth was more than offset by increased movie losses due to a $7.0 million impairment charge primarily associated with the Company’s 2010-2012 film release slate, and reduced profits from the Company’s pay-per-view, video game and home entertainment businesses. Net income was $2.4 million, or $0.03 per share, as compared to $3.5 million, or $0.05 per share, in the prior year quarter. Excluding the impact of film impairments, Adjusted Operating income increased 104% to $10.2 million, Adjusted OIBDA increased 62% to $16.7 million and Adjusted Net income increased 100% to $7.0 million.

    “During the third quarter, our achievements were highlighted by the production and monetization of new content, including the original series, Total Divas, the expansion of pay-per-view distribution on the Sony PlayStation 3 platform, and the formation of new partnerships with blue-chip sponsors such as General Mills and Kraft,” stated Vince McMahon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “These accomplishments reflect the strength of our brands, including a national television audience that exceeds the annual reach of most other sports and entertainment programs. This strength provides a solid foundation for the renegotiation of our TV contracts and the potential launch of a WWE network. Based on our ability to create powerful, entertaining content and to expand distribution, we strongly believe that we are poised to transform our business.”

    “Given the rising value of live content that has a broad, loyal following, we are confident that we will be able to negotiate our key domestic agreements by the end of April next year and that our efforts, including the potential launch of a WWE network, will keep us on track to double or triple our 2012 OIBDA results of $63 million by 2015,” added George Barrios, Chief Financial Officer. “As we strive to transform our earnings profile, we believe that our 2013 OIBDA results, excluding the impact of film impairments, will fall within the previously communicated range of $40-$50 million.”

    Comparability of Results

    For the third quarter of 2013, OIBDA results include $7.0 million in film impairment charges primarily related to the Company’s 2010-2012 film release slate. OIBDA results for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 include $11.7 million in film impairment charges and an approximate $3.4 million positive impact from the transition of the Company’s video game business to a new licensee in 2013. Results for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 included a $0.8 million film impairment charge and an approximate $4 million benefit due to the recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits. In order to facilitate an analysis of financial results on a comparable basis, where noted, year-to-date results have been adjusted to exclude these items. (See Schedule of Adjustments in Supplemental Information).

    Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 – Results by Region and Business Segment

    Revenues of $113.3 million grew 9% versus the prior year quarter as the Company experienced growth both in North America and in international markets. North American revenues increased 9% from the prior year quarter driven by the production and licensing of new television programs. Revenues from outside North America increased 7% driven by the impact of scheduling seven additional events in international markets, and contractual increases in international television agreements, which more than offset lower sales of licensed consumer products. Revenue in the current year quarter was negatively impacted by approximately $1 million due to changes in foreign exchange rates.

    The following tables reflect net revenues by region and by business segment (in millions):

    ———————————————————————————–
    Three Months Ended
    ———————————————————————————–
    September 30, September 30,
    2013 2012
    ———————— ————
    Net Revenues By Region:
    ———————————
    North America $ 87.4 $ 80.0
    Europe/Middle East/Africa (EMEA) 11.2 9.4
    Asia Pacific (APAC) 13.7 13.3
    Latin America 1.0 1.5
    ————————— ————–
    Total net revenues $ 113.3 $ 104.2
    ==== ====================== ====== ======

    ———————————————————————————–
    Three Months Ended
    ———————————————————————————–
    September 30, September 30,
    2013 2012
    ———————— ————
    Net Revenues By Business Segment:
    ———————————
    Live and Televised Entertainment $ 89.5 $ 79.0
    Consumer Products 13.4 15.8
    Digital Media 8.6 7.5
    WWE Studios 1.8 1.9
    ————————— ————–
    Total net revenues $ 113.3 $ 104.2
    ==== ====================== ====== ======

    Live and Televised Entertainment

    Revenues from Live and Televised Entertainment businesses increased 13% to $89.5 million primarily due to the expansion of rights fees from the production and licensing of new television programming, contractual increases from existing programs and changes in the mix of live events.

    — Live Event revenues increased 10% to $25.0 million primarily due to changes in the mix of events, with a higher proportion of international events, which are typically characterized by higher average attendance and ticket prices than events in North America.

    — There were 76 total events in the quarter, including 62 events in North America and 14 events in international markets, as compared to 77 events in the prior year quarter, including 70 events in North America and 7 events in international markets.

    — North American events generated revenues of $17.5 million as compared to $17.0 million in the prior year quarter representing an increase of $0.5 million as a 9% rise in average ticket prices to $46.78 and 6% higher average attendance to 5,500 attendees were partially offset by the scheduling of eight fewer events in the quarter.

    — International live events generated revenues of $7.5 million as compared to $5.8 million in the prior year quarter, with the scheduling of 7 additional events in the quarter. Partially offsetting the impact of holding more events, average international ticket prices decreased 26% to $72.30 and average attendance decreased 20% to approximately 6,700 from 8,400 in the prior year quarter. The decreases in average ticket price and average attendance were due in part to changes in territory mix as the incremental events in the period were concentrated in South Africa, a region that has shown a high proportion of WWE fans, but that has experienced significant economic challenges. In addition, changes in foreign exchange rates contributed to the reduction in average ticket price.

    — Venue Merchandise revenues decreased 11% to $4.0 million from $4.5 million in the prior year quarter primarily due to a 9% reduction in total domestic (U.S.) attendance, reflecting fewer events during the quarter and an 11% decline in per capita merchandise sales at those events to $9.53 in the current year quarter.

    — Pay-Per-View revenues were $14.6 million as compared to $16.3 million in the prior year quarter, down 10%, primarily due to the performance of the Company’s SummerSlam event, which contributed to a 9% reduction in buys for the comparable quarter events.

    The details for the number of buys (in thousands) are as follows:

    ————————————————————————————-
    Three Months Ended
    ————————————————————————————-
    Broadcast Events (in chronological order) September 30, September 30,
    Month 2013 2012
    ———— ——————————- ——————– ——————–
    July Money in the Bank 199 188
    August SummerSlam 296 358
    September Night of Champions 175 189

    Prior events 91 54
    ———————- ——————–
    Total 761 789
    ====================== ====================

    — Television revenues increased 30% to $44.1 million from $34.0 million in the prior year quarter primarily due to the production and monetization of new programs, including Total Divas and WWE Main Event, and to a somewhat lesser degree, contractual increases for existing programs both domestically and internationally. Total Divas, a new original series, began airing on the E! Network in July, 2013 while WWE Main Event was licensed to and began airing on ION Television in the fourth quarter 2012.

    Consumer Products

    Revenues from Consumer Products businesses decreased 15% to $13.4 million from $15.8 million in the prior year quarter, primarily due to declines in the Company’s video game licensing and Home Entertainment businesses as described below.

    — Licensing revenues were $5.7 million as compared to $7.1 million in the prior year quarter, driven primarily by a 24% reduction in video game shipments that resulted in a $1.3 million decline in video game royalties. Shipments of the Company’s annual franchise video game, WWE ’13, which was the last release developed by THQ, declined to 178,000 units as compared to 233,000 units for the corresponding game in the prior year quarter. Royalties from the sale of toy and apparel products were essentially flat to the prior year quarter, as modest growth in the U.S. was offset by lower sales in international markets. Additionally, a new installment of the Company’s video game, WWE 2K14, was released by Take-Two Interactive in late October 2013.

    — Home Entertainment net revenues were $5.2 million as compared to $6.4 million in the prior year quarter. Domestic home entertainment revenue fell approximately $0.8 million, or 15%, reflecting a 23% decline in shipments to approximately 720,000 units with 5 fewer releases in the quarter (7 in Q3 2013 vs. 12 in Q3 2012). The decline in shipments was partially offset by a 4% increase in the average price per unit to $11.41. Revenue from international licensing activities declined by approximately $0.4 million reflecting lower sales in Canada and the transition to a new licensee in the EMEA region.

    — Magazine Publishing net revenues were $1.5 million as compared to $1.6 million in the prior year quarter.

    Digital Media

    Revenues from Digital Media businesses increased 15% to $8.6 million as compared to $7.5 million in the prior year quarter.

    — WWE.com revenues increased 19% to $5.7 million in the quarter due to higher sales of advertising and digital content, including the Company’s pay-per-view events, across various digital platforms. Supporting the growth in advertising, key digital metrics such as unique visitors to the Company’s website and mobile app, average monthly page views, and CPMs (a measure of pricing) increased from the prior year quarter. The Company launched digital distribution of its pay-per-view events on the Microsoft Xbox Live on the Xbox 360 in April 2013 and on the Sony Entertainment Network on PlayStation 3 in August 2013.

    — WWEShop revenues increased to $2.9 million in the quarter as compared to $2.7 million in the prior year quarter based on an 11% increase in the volume of online merchandise sales to approximately 59,800 orders. The average revenue per order increased 2% to $48.87 in the current year quarter.

    WWE Studios

    WWE Studios recognized revenue of $1.8 million as compared to revenue of $1.9 million in the prior year quarter reflecting the timing of results generated by the Company’s overall portfolio of movies. Five films have been released during the first nine months of 2013, which compares to three releases during the first nine months of 2012. Revenues for current projects will be recognized on a net basis as participation statements are received from distribution partners rather than upon release as was the case with the Company’s self-distributed movies. In general, for movies that are not self-distributed, the Company does not expect to begin recognizing revenue until four to six months after release. As such, the recognition of revenue related to the most recent releases, including 12 Rounds 2: Reloaded and The Call is not expected to begin until the fourth quarter 2013 or early 2014.

    Based on an evaluation of the Company’s film assets, an impairment charge of $7.0 million was recognized in the quarter. The impairment charge, which primarily relates to the movies released over the 2010 through 2012 period, was driven recent performance of these titles. As a result of the impairment, WWE Studios generated a loss of $7.4 million compared to a loss of $2.0 million in the prior year quarter, which included no film impairment charges. Excluding the impact of film impairment charges, the WWE Studios’ movie portfolio generated an adjusted loss of $0.4 million compared to a loss of $2.0 million in the prior year quarter.

    Unallocated SG&A

    Unallocated SG&A expense was $27.3 million for the current year quarter as compared to $28.2 million in the prior year quarter. The decrease in expense was driven by a $2.1 million year-over-year reduction in accrued management incentive compensation based on current expectations of the Company’s 2013 financial performance, which were revised during the quarter, and by a $0.5 million reduction in bad debt expense. These items were partially offset by a $1.3 million increase in consulting and professional fees and a $0.5 million increase in salary and benefits.

    Operating Income Before Depreciation and Amortization (OIBDA)

    OIBDA declined $0.6 million, or 6%, to $9.7 million as an increase of television rights fees was more than offset by film impairments, the relatively weak performance of the SummerSlam pay-per-view and lower results from the video game business. Profits from television increased $6.3 million with the production and licensing of programs, such as the third hour of Raw, WWE Main Event and Total Divas, and contractual increases from existing programs. Results of film operations reflected $7.0 million in impairments primarily related to the Company’s 2010-2012 film slate (as described above). Pay-per-view profits declined $1.4 million driven by a 17% reduction in buys for the Company’s SummerSlam event, and profits from the Company’s licensing business declined $0.7 million with lower sales of video games in both domestic and international markets. Favorably impacting the quarter’s results was a year-over-year reduction in accrued management incentive compensation that was based on revised expectations for the Company’s full year performance, which partially offset the rise in compensation and other overhead costs.

    Based on the impact of film impairments and resulting changes in business mix, the Company’s OIBDA margin was 9% in the quarter as compared to 10% in the prior year quarter. Excluding the impact of film impairments, Adjusted OIBDA was $16.7 million in the period as compared to $10.3 million in the prior year period, and the Adjusted OIBDA margin was 15% in the current period as compared to 10% in the prior year period. (See Schedules of Adjustments in Supplemental Information).

    Depreciation and amortization

    Depreciation and amortization expense totaled $6.5 million for the current year quarter as compared to $5.3 million in the prior year quarter. The increase in depreciation and amortization expense derived from investment in assets to support the Company’s content initiatives including efforts to launch a potential network.

    Investment Income, Interest and Other Income, Net

    Investment income, interest and other income, net yielded an expense of $0.1 million compared to $0.0 million in the prior year quarter.

    Effective tax rate

    In the current quarter, the effective tax rate was 27% as compared to 30% in the prior year quarter. The effective tax rates in the current and prior year quarters were positively impacted by the recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits.

    Summary Results for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013

    Total revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 were $389.6 million as compared to $368.9 million in the prior year period. Operating income for the current year period was $18.1 million versus $40.7 million in the prior year period. Net income was $10.7 million, or $0.14 per share, as compared to $30.8 million, or $0.41 per share, in the prior year period. OIBDA was $35.9 million for the current nine month period as compared to $54.7 million in the prior year period.

    Excluding items that impacted comparability on a year-over-year basis, Adjusted Operating income was $26.4 million compared to $41.5 million in the prior year period, and Adjusted Net income was $16.1 million, or $0.21 per share, compared to $27.2 million, or $0.36 per share, in the prior year period.

    Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 – Results by Region and Business Segment

    Revenues increased 6% to $389.6 million as growth from North America was partially offset by declines from WWE’s international markets. Revenues from North America increased 9% primarily due to the licensing of new television and digital content and an increase in the number and pricing of live events. Revenues from outside North America declined 6% primarily due to a reduction in the number of international live events and the timing of the Company’s live event tour in Latin America as well as lower revenue from the sale of licensed products and home entertainment. Excluding revenue from Live Events, revenues from outside North America declined 2% in aggregate from the prior year period. There was no significant impact from changes in foreign exchange rates in the current year period.

    The following tables reflect net revenues by region and by segment (in millions):

    ———————————————————————————–
    Nine Months Ended
    ———————————————————————————–
    September 30, September 30,
    2013 2012
    ———————— ————
    Net Revenues By Region:
    ——————————–
    North America $ 304.2 $ 278.3
    Europe/Middle East/Africa 51.4 51.6
    Asia Pacific 29.6 30.1
    Latin America 4.4 8.9
    ————————— ————–
    Total net revenues $ 389.6 $ 368.9
    ==== ====================== ====== ======

    ———————————————————————————–
    Nine Months Ended
    ———————————————————————————–
    September 30, September 30,
    2013 2012
    ———————— ————
    Net Revenues By Segment:
    ——————————–
    Live and Televised Entertainment $ 294.7 $ 271.8
    Consumer Products 62.3 67.4
    Digital Media 26.8 22.4
    WWE Studios 5.8 7.3
    ————————— ————–
    Total net revenues $ 389.6 $ 368.9
    ==== ====================== ====== ======

    Live and Televised Entertainment

    Revenues from Live and Televised Entertainment businesses were $294.7 million for the current year period as compared to $271.8 million in the prior year period, representing an increase of 8%.

    ———————————————————————————–
    Nine Months Ended
    ———————————————————————————–
    September 30, September 30,
    2013 2012
    ———————— ————
    Live events $ 86.1 $ 80.4
    Venue merchandise 16.0 15.0
    Pay-per-view 66.8 70.6
    Television rights fees 119.6 98.9
    Other 6.2 6.9
    ————————— ————–
    Total $ 294.7 $ 271.8
    ==== ====================== ====== ======

    Consumer Products

    Revenues from Consumer Products businesses were $62.3 million for the current year period as compared to $67.4 million in the prior year period, representing a decrease of 8%.

    ————————————————————————————
    Nine Months Ended
    ————————————————————————————
    September 30, September 30,
    2013 2012
    ———— ————————–
    Licensing $ 36.4 $ 37.9
    Home entertainment 19.2 23.4
    Magazine publishing 4.4 4.3
    Other 2.3 1.8
    ————– —————————-
    Total $ 62.3 $ 67.4
    ====== ====== ====== ====================

    Digital Media

    Revenues from Digital Media businesses were $26.8 million as compared to $22.4 million in the prior year period, representing an increase of 20%.

    ————————————————————————————
    Nine Months Ended
    ————————————————————————————
    September 30, September 30,
    2013 2012
    ———— ————————–
    WWE.com $ 17.3 $ 13.5
    WWEShop 9.5 8.9
    ————– —————————-
    Total $ 26.8 $ 22.4
    ====== ====== ====== ====================

    WWE Studios

    WWE Studios recognized revenue of $5.8 million as compared to $7.3 million in the prior year period, reflecting the timing of results generated by the Company’s portfolio of movies that were previously released. Although there were five films released in the current year period (12 rounds 2:Reloaded)(12 rounds 2:No One Lives)(12 rounds 2:Dead Man Down)(the call and the marine 3:Homefront), revenues for these movies will be recognized on a net basis as participation statements are received rather than upon release as was the case with the Company’s self-distributed movies. As such, the recognition of revenue related to the majority of these films is not expected to begin until the fourth quarter 2013 or early 2014.

    Based on revised ultimate expectations for the Company’s movies, film impairment charges increased to $11.7 million in the current year period compared to $0.8 million in the prior year period. Impairments were primarily related to the Company’s 2010-2012 film slate, as well as Dead Man Down, which was released earlier this year. As a result, WWE Studios generated a loss of $12.8 million compared to a loss of $4.3 million in the prior year period. Excluding the impact of film impairment charges, the WWE Studios’ movie portfolio generated a loss of $1.1 million compared to an adjusted loss of $3.5 million in the prior year period.

    Unallocated SG&A

    Unallocated SG&A expense was $90.1 million for the current year period as compared to $84.7 million in the prior year period. The rise in expense was driven by increases in salary and benefit costs of $3.5 million, consulting and professional fees of $3.0 million, marketing expenses of $1.1 million and talent development costs. The increases in these expenses were primarily to support the Company’s content-related initiatives, including the potential launch of a WWE network. These items were partially offset by a $1.7 million year-over-year reduction in accrued management incentive compensation based on current expectations of the Company’s 2013 financial performance, which were revised during the third quarter, and a $1.6 million reduction in bad debt expense.

    Operating Income Before Depreciation and Amortization (OIBDA)

    OIBDA was $35.9 million in the current year period as compared to $54.7 million in the prior year period. The decline in OIBDA was primarily due to a $12.4 million reduction in profits from the Pay-Per-View business reflecting increased production costs (and the timing of one less pay-per-view event, Over-the-Limit, which is scheduled for the fourth quarter 2013 vs. the second quarter 2012), a $10.9 million increase in film impairment charges primarily associated with the Company’s 2010-2012 film slate and the current year release of Dead Man Down, a $9.5 million increase in compensation and benefit costs, and lower results from Home Entertainment. These items more than offset the growth in content licensing on broadcast and digital platforms and the strong performance of the Live Event business. Based on the impact of film impairments, increased investment and resulting changes in business mix, the Company’s OIBDA margin was 9% in the first nine months of 2013 as compared to 15% in the prior year period. Excluding the impact of film impairments and video game transition, Adjusted OIBDA was $44.2 million in the period as compared to $55.5 million in the prior year period, and the Adjusted OIBDA margin was 11% in the current period as compared to 15% in the prior year period. (See Schedules of Adjustments in Supplemental Information).

    Depreciation and amortization

    Depreciation and amortization expense totaled $17.8 million for the current year period as compared to $14.0 million in the prior year period. The increase in depreciation and amortization expense derives from investment in assets to support the Company’s content-related initiatives.

    Investment Income, Interest and Other Expense, Net

    Investment income, interest and other expense, net yielded an expense of $1.6 million compared to $0.4 million in the prior year period, reflecting lower interest income, incremental expenses associated with realized foreign exchange losses and losses associated with the disposal of property and equipment in the current year period as compared to the prior year period.

    Effective tax rate

    In the current year period, the effective tax rate was 36% as compared to 24% in the prior year period. The 24% rate in the prior year period was lower primarily due to the recognition of an approximate $4 million benefit related to previously unrecognized tax benefits.

    Cash Flows & Liquidity

    Net cash generated by operating activities was $12.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 as compared to $41.0 million in the prior year period. This $28.8 million decrease was primarily driven by changes in working capital including an $11.0 million increase in the annual payout of management incentive compensation related to the Company’s previous year performance, increases in spending on television production assets, and timing differences in the collection of receivables that negatively impacted current year cash flow as compared to the prior year.

    The Company completed the purchase of a corporate aircraft, and in conjunction with this transaction and related aircraft improvements, utilized debt financing of $29.7 million. Excluding the purchase of the corporate aircraft, purchases of property and equipment and other assets declined by $8.4 million from the prior year period, primarily due to lower investment in assets to support efforts to create and distribute new content, including through a potential network.

    As of September 30, 2013, the Company held $114.8 million in cash and short-term investments and estimates debt capacity under the Company’s revolving line of credit to be approximately $120 million.

    Additional Information

    Additional business metrics are made available to investors on a monthly basis on the corporate website – corporate.wwe.com. Note: WWE will host a conference call on October 31, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. ET to discuss the Company’s earnings results for the third quarter of 2013. All interested parties can access the conference call by dialing 855-993-1400 (toll free) or 630-691-2763 from outside the U.S. (conference id for both lines:WWE). Please reserve a line 15 minutes prior to the start time of the conference call.

    The earnings release and presentation to be referenced during the call will be available at corporate.wwe.com. A replay of the call will be available approximately two hours after the conference call concludes and can be accessed on the Company’s web site.

    About WWE

    WWE, a publicly traded company WWE +8.53% , 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 entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 150 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 650 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, London, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo.

    Additional information on WWE WWE +8.53% can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to www.wwe.com/worldwide/.

    Trademarks: All WWE programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans, wrestling moves, trademarks, logos and copyrights are the exclusive property of WWE and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

    Forward-Looking Statements: This press 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, without limitation, risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television and pay-per-view programming distribution agreements; the need for continually developing creative and entertaining programming; the continued importance of key performers and the services of Vincent McMahon; the conditions of the markets in which we compete and acceptance of the Company’s brands, media and merchandise within those markets; our exposure to bad debt risk; uncertainties relating to regulatory and litigation matters; risks resulting from the highly competitive nature of our markets; uncertainties associated with international markets; the importance of protecting our intellectual property and complying with the intellectual property rights of others; risks associated with producing and traveling to and from our large live events, both domestically and internationally; the risk of accidents or injuries during our physically demanding events; risks relating to our film business; risks relating to increasing content production for distribution on various platforms, including the potential creation of a WWE Network; risks relating to our computer systems and online operations; risks relating to the large number of shares of common stock controlled by members of the McMahon family and the possibility of the sale of their stock by the McMahons or the perception of the possibility of such sales; the relatively small public float of our stock; 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, our dividend is dependent on a number of factors, including, among other things, our liquidity and historical and projected cash flow, strategic plan (including alternative uses of capital), our financial results and condition, contractual and legal restrictions on the payment of dividends, general economic and competitive conditions and such other factors as our Board of Directors may consider relevant.

    Non-GAAP Measures:

    We define OIBDA as operating income before depreciation and amortization, excluding feature film and television production amortization and related impairments. OIBDA is a non-GAAP financial measure and may be different than similarly-titled non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies. A limitation of OIBDA is that it excludes depreciation and amortization, which represents the periodic charge for certain fixed assets and intangible assets used in generating revenues for the Company’s business. OIBDA should not be regarded as an alternative to operating income or net income as an indicator of operating performance, or to the statement of cash flows as a measure of liquidity, nor should it be considered in isolation or as a substitute for financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. We believe that operating income is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure to OIBDA.

    Adjusted OIBDA, Adjusted Operating income, Adjusted Net income and Adjusted Earnings per share exclude certain material items, which otherwise would impact the comparability of results between periods. These should not be considered as an alternative to net income, cash flows from operations or any other indicator of WWE’s performance or liquidity, determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

    UPDATE On WWE Interested In BUYING OUT TNA — CLICK HERE!

    Vince & Stephanie Not At Last Night’s Tapings, Heyman & Bryan Updates

    – Neither Vince or Stephanie McMahon were backstage at last night’s Smackdown taping. Triple H was there and ran the show.

    – Paul Heyman was not used at Monday’s RAW or Tuesday’s SmackDown tapings, but he was backstage at both shows. He was kept off TV this week to sell CM Punk’s beatdown at Hell in a Cell.

    – Daniel Bryan has been pulled from this week’s scheduled media appearances to sell the injuries he suffered at the hands of the Wyatt Family on RAW.

    – Former WWE tag team champion Scotty 2 Hotty, who now works as a firefighter in Florida, was backstage at Monday’s RAW from Orlando.

    * Top SURVIVOR SERIES Matches Revealed & News On BIG E LANGSTON’s Big Push

    (Source: PWInsider.com)

    Update On Big Show vs. Triple H, RAW Script Changes, Vince McMahon’s Return

    -As previously reported, the plan for the upcoming WWE Survivor Series pay-per-view is to book Randy Orton vs. Big Show for the WWE Championship. The reason it seemed like WWE was pushing a Big Show vs. Triple H match once again on Monday’s RAW is because the plan is for that match to headline the WWE TLC pay-per-view in December. Obviously plans could change as time goes on, but as of right now, that is what’s scheduled to happen.

    -For those asking why Vince McMahon did not appear on RAW on Monday night, apparently there were two scripts for Monday’s show. One script had McMahon written into the show, while the other didn’t. WWE apparently went with the script that didn’t have McMahon appearing, despite the fact that he was heavily advertised locally. The plan is for McMahon to still return sometime in the near future, with Big Show planting the seeds for his return by referencing him in an around-about way in promos.

    Details On Vince’s Role When He Returns + MORE Survivor Series Matches …

    [Credit: F4WOnline.com]

    Vince McMahon & HBK Visit WWE Performance Center, SmackDown Viewership

    -Both Vince McMahon and WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels visited the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida on Monday. According to reports, McMahon and HBK did not interact or speak with any of the developmental talent.

    -Friday’s WWE Hell In A Cell “go-home” edition of SmackDown averaged 2.681 million viewers, which was an increase from the 2.640 million viewers that the show averaged the previous week.

    *SPOILER* On VINCE MCMAHON’S Return At Tonight’s WWE RAW [>>]

    [Partial Credit: PWInsider.com]

    Vince McMahon Reportedly Returning To TV This Week, Update On Colt Cabana’s Upcoming WWE Tryout

    – Vince McMahon, who has not appeared on WWE programming since Randy Orton’s “WWE Championship Coronation” on the Aug. 19 episode of Raw, is expected to make his return to WWE programming this week. According to PWInsider.com, if the WWE Chairman and CEO doesn’t show up at tonight’s Hell in a Cell pay-per-view event, expect him to reemerge tomorrow night on Raw in Orlando, Florida.

    – After Colt Cabana revealed recently on The Steve Austin Show that he was scheduled to try out for an announcing job with WWE, he downplayed the rumors on Twitter. Despite saying “no WWE for me,” he is still scheduled for a tryout some time next month.

    – Randy Orton’s dismantling of Dolph Ziggler on Raw last week in preparation for his Hell in a Cell encounter against Daniel Bryan tonight is featured in the “WWE Raw Slam of the Week.”

    (source: PWInsider.com)

    Ken Shamrock Talks Issues He Had With WWE, Working With The Rock & More

    The following are highlights from a new WWE.com “Where Are They Now?” interview with UFC Hall Of Famer Ken Shamrock:

    On how he initially entered WWE: “Vince McMahon reached out and showed a big interest in me and in changing pro wrestling as we knew it. He came to me and said I could come to WWE and they’d build me into something special. I appreciated his confidence in me.

    On his work in WWE with The Rock: “It was great. Working with him is what almost got me to that next level. I thought that, with the matches I had with The Rock, I was going to move up and go after him for the WWE Title. For some reason, that never happened.”

    On issues he had with WWE in the past: “I wasn’t being serious and doing what I needed to do to improve. I got bitter, but it was stupid on my part. There were so many guys that deserved an opportunity at the WWE Championship that didn’t get it, that probably deserved it. I look back on it and think I was truly blessed to have gotten those opportunities.”

    Check out the complete interview online at WWE.com.

    DIRECT LINK TO ARTICLE: A Different UFC Legend In Talks With WWE [READ >>]

    Former WWE Superstar Recalls Conversation He Had With Vince McMahon

    The following are highlights from a recent Newsday interview with former WWE Superstar and member of the Sports Legacy Institute (SLI), Christopher Nowinski:

    On a conversation he remembers having with Vince McMahon: “He let me know how proud he was [of SLI], how far the research had come, the influence we had in changing the culture in sports. And he really opened up the door to saying how could we work together, both to protect the talent in WWE, but it’s also ingrained that they’re supporting CTE research that will benefit athletes, military veterans and the world at large.”

    On how WWE compares to other sports in terms of what he does: “The NFL has also been supportive financially of our research. I think what’s most special to me — I do a lot of speaking on this and a lot of training. Very few professional leagues have invited me in front of their talent, in front of the athletes. because I think they’re sometimes concerned about what message they’ll get, and their ability to maybe put them back into a big game when they need them. I think some leagues like that the players don’t necessarily know the risks they’re being exposed to.”

    Check out the complete interview online at Newsday.com.

    NEW Matches & Huge *SPOILERS* For Sunday’s WWE Hell In A Cell PPV!

    Vince Unhappy With Cody’s Commentary On RAW, Rumored Angle For HIAC

    – During The Usos vs. The Shield match on Monday’s RAW, JBL criticizing Cody Rhodes while they were both doing commentary was a result of Vince McMahon pushing JBL to do so. Vince often feeds lines to all 3 RAW announcer, but when he has something he really wants to get across, he will have JBL do it.

    Vince was reportedly very frustrated with Cody, because he did not take Vince’s direction to be aggressive on commentary.

    – WWE creative is working one some kind of segment between The Miz and Bray Wyatt for Sunday’s WWE Hell in a Cell pay-per-view. Since Wyatt is injured and not returning to the ring for a few more weeks, it’s possible we’ll see the Wyatt Family beat down Miz on the show to build momentum towards an eventual match with Bray.

    * WWE Diva KAITLYN Shows Off Her New Look [>]

    (Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

    Vince McMahon To Appear On Monday’s Raw?, Watch Goldust Put On His Face Paint (Video), Gangrel

    – According to F4WOnline.com, Vince McMahon is being advertised in the Orlando, Florida area to appear on this Monday’s episode of Raw at the Amway Center. The venue’s official website, however, is advertising “the McMahon’s” for the show. WWE has yet to make an official announcement.

    – WWE is offering a peek backstage with this time-lapsed look at Dustin Rhodes applying his facepaint to become Goldust.

    – Former WWE Superstar Gangrel will appear for Dreamwave Wrestlingat the LaSalle Knights of Columbus 209 Gooding St. LaSalle, Illinois, on Saturday, December 7.

    Big Show Part Of Vince McMahon’s Return? First RAW Of 2014

    – The first WWE RAW of 2014 will take place on January 6th from the Baltimore Arena in Baltimore, Maryland. The pre-sale begins on 10/31.

    – The 2013 WWE Survivor Series pay-per-view will be sponsored by Kmart and WWE’s new Power Slammers toys.

    – On Monday’s RAW, we saw Big Show make several “unauthorized” appearances on the show, including driving a truck into the arena during the Hell in a Cell contract signing between Daniel Bryan and Randy Orton. According to f4wonline.com, Big Show’s actions are likely leading to the television return of Vince McMahon. Vince is expected to be back on television before Survivor Series.

    Explanation Behind Wade Barrett’s Absence, Goldberg/WWE News, New Mysterio DVD

    -One of the key reasons Wade Barrett has not been featured on WWE television or at WWE live events in recent weeks is due to the fact that he is back in England dealing with visa issues. As noted previously, Barrett recently returned to action with the company during their current live event tour in Mexico.

    -The new Rey Mysterio DVD produced by WWE is scheduled for a release in 2014.

    -For those wondering, it indeed was Vince McMahon who made the call for Jerry “The King” Lawler to mention the “Goldberg” chants on Monday’s RAW and tie it into the current “Ultimate Goldberg Collection” DVD that was released by the company this week. Whether or not more transpires as a result, remains to be seen.

    Update On Rey Mysterio’s WWE TV Return + Wade Barrett Gimmick Change [>>]

    [Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter]

    Vince Upset At Heels Holding All Titles, New Matches Planned For Hell In A Cell PPV

    -In addition to previously reported reasons, the WWE Tag-Team Championship change on RAW on Monday night was done in part because Vince McMahon was reportedly upset that all of the WWE Championships were held by heels.

    -Apparently plans are now in place for the Big E. Langston babyface turn. According to reports, Langston is scheduled for a potential run with Curtis Axel for the WWE Intercontinental Championship. The match may be added to the undercard of the upcoming WWE Hell In A Cell pay-per-view.

    -Other matches rumored to be added to the previously announced matches for the WWE Hell In A Cell pay-per-view include AJ Lee vs. Brie Bella for the WWE Divas Championship and The Real Americans vs. Los Matadores.

    More Secret Backstage WWE News Like The Above Story

    [Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter]

    Internal WWE Memo Leaks & Reveals Banned Phrases Announcers Can’t Use

    A leaked memo that dates back a few years revealed a few things about the way Vince McMahon wants his product presented on the air – and what phrases have been specifically banned.

    Vince McMahon apparently banned the phrase, “Granddaddy of them all” when referring to WrestleMania. Apparently the feeling is that the phrase makes the show feel dated and old. Additionally, no one is allowed to use the word “choke” when describing various submission holds. The Undertaker’s “Hell’s Gate” finisher was also renamed “Triangle Submission Hold” (despite the fact that it’s actually a gogoplata, which isn’t exactly the triangle choke commonly seen in MMA, even though it looks similar. Gogoplata’s are much more rare, and the only one that comes to mind is Nick Diaz’s gogoplata submission victory over Takanori Gomi at one of the final PRIDE events in the U.S., where the outcome was overruled due to Diaz popping hot for marijuana in his post-fight drug test).

    Other banned phrases include “title changes hands,” which is mainly directed at the WWE announcers, and comes from WWE producer Kevin Dunn.

    Also, McMahon has banned terms such as “Five Star Match” and “Match Of The Year.” Additionally, WWE announcers were informed that they should no longer read “dirt sheets” with the feeling being it influences what they might say or refer to in commentary.

    Stephanie McMahon sent a memo out to the announcers, informing them that they are never to use the phrase “the referee didn’t see it” when a heel is doing something behind the referee’s back. Stephanie wrote in the memo that it makes it seem like the announcers are treating the fans like they are in grade school. She wrote that she would prefer phrases such as “the referee’s vision was impaired,” or “the referee’s vision was blocked.”

    The words “hatred” and/or “hate” were banned, as well as “blood” or references to bleeding. Finally, the announcers were told never to say a talent doesn’t care about winning a particular match.

    More Secret Backstage WWE News Like The Above Story

    [Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter]

    Larry Zbyszko Talks About What’s Wrong With TNA, Hogan, Bischoff, Vince, Russo & More

    Wrestling legend Larry Zbyszko recently spoke with Steve and Scum of WGD Weekly. Here are some highlights of what the “Living Legend” said about:

    The financial state of TNA: “They just made wrong decisions…from what I hear, Bob Carter…he had a hard time saying no to his daughter, Dixie… Finally, they blew so much money with no real results after ten years that Bob resigned and I think the mother took over and she is controlling the purse. From what I hear… this guy is now fired, this guy is now fired and if you wanna stay there you get a pay cut. Half the guys wrestling there are on food stamps. I was shocked when I heard that one.”

    Where TNA has gone wrong creatively: “If you look at TNA today, I mean like ten years ago they had some great matches, AJ Styles vs. Chris Daniels, now ten years later, like six or seven months ago, I’m flicking through the TV and I stumble across TNA… and what’s the main event? AJ Styles vs. Chris Daniels, they’ve been wrestling each other for ten years. I couldn’t believe it… don’t these people understand?”

    Hulk Hogan in TNA: “Instead of guys who can do something, they are blowing their wad on Hulk, god bless him, but he can’t walk anymore.”

    Eric Bischoff in TNA: “Eric, who listened to a couple guys, pulled something off, then took credit for it, but everything he’s been involved in since sinks because he doesn’t know and won’t listen.”

    Sting being “lucky”: “Sting who was one of the luckiest men who ever lived. Sting couldn’t do a good interview, he couldn’t work good. We had to drop him from the ceiling for a year and dress him like the crow and not let him say a word to get one big match out of him.”

    His relationship with and thoughts on Vince McMahon since once again working on occasion with WWE: ” I haven’t bumped into Vince. I’ve been doing some things, like at ‘Mania, but I was running around doing Axxess, and signings, and filming DVD’s. When they tape the NXT shows they film that right down the street here… but, I haven’t bumped into Vince yet. I haven’t seen him since 1981. I can’t wait to see him, it will be very nostalgic.He looks great, between you and me, he’s one of the best characters he’s got. Vince is a classic, he would die for his creation and his fans, you can’t take that away from him.”

    Vince Russo coming to WCW in 1999 and the dying days of WCW: “Eric and his buddies were gone, so Bill brings in this idiot Russo who was writing for the WWE… as far as I’m concerned, he’s a cancer…So, this goofy Russo comes in and by the time he came in… it went back to stupid nonsense with some idiot who has no idea what he is doing. So, they move me to Thunder. I was pissed, I knew the biggest, hottest wrestling ever was about to die. Russo just kept doing stupid stuff, the worst part is, we had a guy that was the next Bruno, Goldberg, people loved him, he was hot… but instead of Goldberg being champion, the new champion was Russo and some idiot little, skinny puke, David Arquette…the whole thing just turned to absolute manure… you had this slob, Mark Madden on Nitro, picking his nose and god knows what else. It was horrifying.”

    Vince McMahon’s Phone Number Digits Inadvertently Posted Online By WWE Employee

    As seen Monday night on Raw, WWE Hall of Famer Bruno Sammartino was honored by the sports-entertainment organization as Jerry “The King” Lawler led Pittsburgh fans in singing “Happy Birthday” to the legendary wrestler (he celebrated his 78th birthday the previous day). Following his live appearance, Sammartino met with various WWE personnel and wrestlers backstage including Vince McMahon and Triple H. The Brooklyn Brawler, who works for WWE in a backstage capacity, tweeted a photo of his backstage encounter with Sammartino, and in a near ‘oops’ moment, almost inadvertently revealed a phone number belonging to the WWE Chairman and CEO.

    As Brawler posed for his photo opportunity with “The Living Legend,” he stood in front of piece of paper (labeled “Vince’s Phone Number”) that had been posted on a wall disclosing all but the last three digits of McMahon’s phone number (which were not captured in the digital image, or were cropped out).

    Vince McMahon

    It should be noted that the first three digits of McMahon’s phone number, 412, serves as an area code in Pennsylvania, and was likely his office phone number for the night.

    Brawler said of his meeting with Sammartino, “It was great to see @SammartinoBruno at #RAW this week, A true #living Legend #WWE.”

    Vince McMahon’s Reaction To Battleground Power Outage & His WMXXX Concerns

    -Apparently Vince McMahon and Kevin Dunn “flipped their lids” when the power outage happened at the recent WWE Battleground pay-per-view in Buffalo. McMahon is reportedly paranoid that something similar, or worse, could happen at WrestleMania XXX next year, as the event will be held in the same venue that the NFL’s Super Bowl was in when they had the same problem. McMahon’s concern is that not only are they going to be in the same building, but that WrestleMania uses more power than the Super Bowl when you factor in all of the lighting, pyro and other production elements.

    -According to several key employees in WWE, the feeling is former football player-turned wrestler Mojo Rawley is the breakout performer with the most potential in the current crop of talent working in the WWE NXT developmental system.

    Related News: Undertaker’s Rumored Opponent For WrestleMania XXX

    [Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter]