Posts Tagged ‘WWE Network’

Renee Young Debuting New WWE Network Show Next Week, Special Program Planned

– Renee Young’s new ten-minute WWE Network talk show, “Unfiltered” is scheduled to debut this Tuesday at 4pm EST. Her first guest will be WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins. The official description for the show reads as follows: “In the premier of Unfiltered, Renee Young hangs out with WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins for a fun and revealing conversation!”

– Speaking of the WWE Network, some sort of special programming is scheduled to air at 8pm EST., on Tuesday night. The WWE Network currently has a one-hour program scheduled with the title being, “Network Exclusive.” The description for that one reads as follows: “To be announced, live WWE action and entertainment featuring top WWE stars.”

Photos Of Mick Foley’s “Cheap Pops” Taping, Premiere Date Revealed

WWE Hall Of Famer Mick Foley revealed the premiere date for his “Cheap Pops” WWE Network special on social media today.

The hardcore legend noted that the special, which was taped on Friday night at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida, will air this Wednesday on the WWE Network.

Below are some comments from Foley regarding the special, as well as some photos from the taping:

“I had an incredible time last night, bringing ?#?CheapPops? to life at ?#?FullSailUniversity?. I believe it will be making it’s premiere on ?#?WWENetwork? on WEDNESDAY! Now I start all over again, working on a brand new show to bring on the road when the new tour starts at the end of May. Who’ll be watching? Who’s ready for some great stories, and some cheap pops!”

https://twitter.com/realmickfoley/status/591735606406991872

https://twitter.com/realmickfoley/status/591799673406521346

Jerry Springer Describes His New WWE Network Show, “WWE: Too Hot For TV”

Famous talk show host Jerry Springer recently spoke to the folks at Business Insider about his new “WWE Too Hot For TV” show, which is scheduled to premiere on the WWE Network this Monday night.

Springer mentioned during the interview that his show will be like The Soup for pro wrestling and will feature him showcasing and talking about outrageous and classic clips from WWE’s vast archives.

“The best parallel I can draw is that show ‘Talk Soup,’ which has been on for years,” said Springer. “I guess the only question I had is: why did it take us so long to think about that because it’s so obvious? It’s been so much entertainment for so many years. It’s a natural fit.”

Springer concluded, “Truth is, our audiences overlap. They’re the same demographic. So yeah, it was easy to say ‘yes’ to.”

Check out the complete interview at BusinessInsider.com.

Notes From Mick Foley’s “Cheap Pops” WWE Network Taping

WWE Hall Of Famer Mick Foley taped his “Cheap Pops” special for the WWE Network at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida on Friday night. Below are some notes from the show.

– NXT host Greg Hamilton was the host for the event.

– Foley’s family was in attendance, as his daughter Noelle did an introduction for him and one of his sons also participated during the show.

– JBL was advertised to appear but never showed up and was never mentioned. Some NXT stars were in attendance for the taping, but also weren’t included as part of the actual show.

– While no air date for the special was announced, Foley did announce that he would be doing more shows in Florida this July.

– WWE Hall Of Famer Jim Ross opened the show with about 30 minutes of stories and a brief Q&A segment.

– Mick Foley followed with about an hour of stories and a longer Q&A.

– A planned meet and greet ended up not happening due to issues with the venue.

Jim Ross Makes Interesting Comment About Samoa Joe, Mick Foley’s Family Attends NXT Tapings

WWE Hall Of Famer Mick Foley, along with his children, attended last night’s NXT television tapings at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida.

NXT Diva Dana Brooke posted the following photo of herself with the Foley’s at the show last night.

WWE Hall Of Famer Jim Ross was also in attendance at the tapings. JR noted that he saw Samoa Joe earlier in the day in Orlando, Florida, but did not specify where. JR tweeted the following about attending the NXT taping and taping the “Cheap Pops” special with Mick Foley for the WWE Network tonight.

Mick Foley Talks About His New “Cheap Pops” WWE Network Comedy Special

WWE Hall Of Famer Mick Foley recently spoke with Brian Fritz of the SportingNews.com website to promote his new “Cheap Pops” WWE Network taping at Full Sail University on Friday night.

Foley noted during the interview that his show will be a PG-version of his regular one-man stage show and he expects it will air on the Network within a month of the taping.

“I’m really excited,” said Foley. “People who have been following me know this is what I’ve been really hoping for, for a couple of years. It really seemed to come together in a really, first class manner. Now looking back, I’ve glad we waited just because (it will involve) the WWE’s top director, top producers, guys who I’ve worked with and am really comfortable with.”

Foley concluded, “We’re pretty sure we’re going to not only capture something special live but turn it into something really special for the network.”

Check out the complete interview at SportingNews.com.

Corey Graves’ Culture Shock Premieres Tonight, Ryder Jokes About Tough Enough & More

Corey Graves’ new WWE Network show Culture Shock premieres tonight immediately following NXT. On this week’s show, Graves will tour the headquarters of Marvel Entertainment. (more…)

Miz & Paige Off To Shoot Santa’s Little Helper, Foley’s WWE Network Special

– Hideo Itami is headed to Japan next month to do promotional work for WWE as they prepare for two live events there in July.

– After wrapping up his feud with Damien Mizdow on RAW, The Miz and Summer Rae did media in New York City on Tuesday to promote the release of The Marine. Miz is now off filming the new WWE Studios film Santa’s Little Helper with Paige, which is due out this holiday season.

– Mick Foley noted last night that the first round of tickets for his “Cheap Pops” comedy show that will air on the WWE Network sold out, but additional tickets are being released:

https://twitter.com/realmickfoley/status/590699905456463872

New Stipulation For WWE Extreme Rules Main Event, Two New Title Matches Added

– It was announced during Monday’s WWE Extreme Rules “go-home” edition of RAW that Kane will serve as the “gatekeeper” for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship steel cage match between Seth Rollins and Randy Orton, a match where Orton’s “RKO” finishing move is also banned per the stipulations for the bout. This basically means Kane will be in charge of the cage door, and will be somewhat of the outside-the-ring official for the match.

– The WWE Tag-Team Championships will be on the line during the WWE Extreme Rules “Kickoff Show” on the WWE Network this Sunday as well, as Tyson Kidd and Cesaro will defend the titles against The New Day.

– Finally, a WWE Divas Championship match between Nikki Bella and Naomi was made official for the Extreme Rules pay-per-view this Sunday.

Stephanie McMahon To Be Chris Jericho’s Next WWE Network Podcast Interview Guest

WWE has announced that Stephanie McMahon will be the next guest on Chris Jericho’s WWE network ‘podcast.’

The episode will air on the WWE Network next Thursday (5/30) immediately following SmackDown.

Jericho and Stephanie have a storied history on WWE television, with Jericho frequently taunting WWE’s Chief Brand Officer. Jericho got some criticism for towing the company line during his recent WWE Network podcast interview with Triple H, so it will be interesting to see the dynamic between these two.

The Miz Responds To Triple H’s Tough Enough Announcement (Video), WWE Network Notes, More

– “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” regular “Cousin Sal” is the guest on this week’s edition of Roddy Piper’s “Piper’s Pit,” which you can download for free right now at PodcastOne.com.

– TNA star Bobby Roode will be the guest on the latest edition of “The Ross Report” podcast with WWE Hall Of Famer Jim Ross. The show drops Tuesday night at approximately 9pm EST.

– WWE has added the “True Giants” documentary from 2014 to the “Beyond The Ring” section of the WWE Network. The documentary is now available for on demand viewing. The official description for the shows reads: “The bigger they are, the harder they brawl! True Giants is an in-depth look at sports entertainment’s most successful gargantuan Superstars.”

– WWE has added a new video to their official YouTube channel which features The Miz responding to Triple H’s Tough Enough announcement from earlier today. In the video, which you can check out below, Miz talks about being the most successful Tough Enough contestant of all-time.

WWE, ESPN Being Sued Over Unpaid Likeness Usage

Tommy Gilbert, acting on behalf of his son Eddie’s estate, and his younger son Doug Gilbert, filed a lawsuit against WWE and ESPN recently.

Both brothers appear on Global Wrestling Federation shows that air on ESPN Classic in the United States, as well as various libraries WWE owns.

Additionally, WWE Network’s video on demand library includes various matches of both brothers, some of which feature Doug being in his “Dark Patriot” character in WCW.

The Gilbert’s are claiming that they never gave permission for WWE or ESPN to use their likeness and have not been compensated for it.

Below is the complaint that was filed:

“While they performed live, neither of the Gilberts signed contracts or gave permission to WWE or ESPN to use recordings of the Gilberts’ names or likenesses. The defendants have impermissibly and in violation of the Gilberts’ rights of privacy shown recordings of past wrestling matches that use and display the Gilberts’ names and likenesses. Additionally, Defendants have violated the Gilberts’ rights of privacy by using the Gilberts’ names and likenesses through other media. Neither Doug Gilbert nor Eddie Gilbert has received compensation for the Defendants’ use of the Gilberts’ names and likenesses. Accordingly, the Gilberts seek compensation and all other damages to which they are entitled based on Defendants violation of the Gilberts’ rights of privacy.”

The Gilberts are not seeking to block use of the footage; instead, they just want to be paid the compensation they feel they’re due. Meanwhile, WWE made a statement to TMZ, and to quote their paraphrase of it:

“The WWE believes it has full clearance. A rep tells TMZ … the org has purchased legal rights to use old footage from other wrestling groups — such as ECW and WCW — and as a result … it expects this lawsuit to be dismissed.”

Jim Ross Negotiating With WWE?, JR On TNA Pay Issues & GFW’s First TV Tapings

Jim Ross addressed a number of current hot-topic rumors in the world of pro wrestling in a new blog entry posted on his official website.

Below are some highlights from the blog:

On rumors of him working on a special for the WWE Network: “Regarding my potential involvement with the @WWENetwork, we are in the preliminary, talking stages but I’d love to participate with them at some point in the future if schedules, etc can be addressed. I’ve been a subscriber since day one and love the network and encourage all who haven’t to give it a try. So, nothing whatsoever is etched in stone but there is dialog ongoing and we will see where it goes over the next few weeks/months. It’s all positive which is where healthy negotiations begin.”

On the upcoming Global Force Wrestling TV tapings: “Excited for Jeff Jarrett as he is working like a mad man tp get ready for his inaugural TV tapings in Vegas at the Orleans this summer. There will be no shortage of talent available for @JeffJarrett to utilize. Jeff’s talent roster is going to pleasantly surprise many fans.”

On rumors of pay issues in TNA: “Hate to hear of the apparent payroll issues in TNA and sincerely hope that they can get past this bump in the road and continue to produce good, solid TV airing every Friday night on Destination America. I’m for all wrestling companies doing well. I like Matt Hardy’s idea of using TNA talents to sit in with Josh Mathews, now that my friend Taz has departed, on commentary as one never knows when they will discover the next, broadcasting star. Matt spoke on this today on Busted Open Radio.”

Check out the complete blog at JRsBarBQ.com.

Sting, Triple H & Renee Young To Be Featured In New “Monday Night War” DVD/Blu-ray Project

It looks as though WWE has plans to include Sting in their new “The Monday Night War Volume 1: Shots Fired” DVD and Blu-ray set.

The DVD is scheduled to feature footage and interviews with the likes of Sting, Triple H and Renee Young. The three will comment on each episode of the DVD, all of which aired as part of a documentary series that was exclusive to the WWE Network.

The release is scheduled to include four DVD discs, or three Blu-ray discs, which features ten episodes of the Monday Night War documentary episodes, as well as “complimentary matches and moments,” all of which will go along with the new interview footage.

“The Monday Night War Volume 1: Shots Fired” set will be available in July, with the second volume of the series expected to be released later this year.

Update On Plans For A Kliq Reunion: WWE Network Special, DVD/Blu-ray Set

WWE is working on a new DVD and Blu-ray set for July called, “The Kliq Rules.” The “reunion” special has been in the works for months now, and a condensed version is set to air as part of a WWE Network special in the near future.

The project is expected to include a reunion show, a new documentary and some of the most famous matches involving Kliq members. The reunion was originally planned for September but for whatever reason it has been bumped up to July.

The DVD and Blu-ray set is scheduled for a July 28th release, while there is no definitive word yet as to when the condensed version will air as part of a WWE Network special.

WWE Wins Awards For WWE Network & Social Media Excellence At Cynopsis Sports Media Awards

WWE issued a press release on Thursday to tout the success they achieved at the recent fourth annual “Cynopsis Sports Media Awards.”

Below is the release WWE issued earlier today with all of the details:

WWE® Wins Awards for WWE Network® and Social Media Excellence

STAMFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– WWE has been named the winner of two awards at the fourth annual Cynopsis Sports Media Awards – WWE Network for Over-The-Top Content Service and the top social media award for Overall Social Media Excellence. Boasting some of the hottest properties, campaigns and brands from around the world of sports, the Cynopsis Sports Media Awards took place earlier today at the New York Athletic Club in New York City.

WWE received the award for best Over-The-Top Content Service for WWE Network, beating the NFL, NHL, CBS Sports and PGA. WWE Network, the first-ever 24/7 direct-to-consumer network includes all 12 live pay-per-views, scheduled programming and an extensive video-on-demand library, and currently reaches more than 1.3 million subscribers in more than 175 countries.

Additionally, WWE won the award for Overall Social Media Excellence beating Turner Sports, Showtime Sports, Golf Channel, Pac-12 Network and El Rey Network. WWE’s social media team manages 12 major platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat and Pinterest, where WWE has a passionate fan base of more than 470 million worldwide.

The Cynopsis Sports Media Awards recognizes the most outstanding work in the sports industry from the past year with categories that span television, digital and marketing.

About WWE

WWE, a publicly traded company (NYSE:WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming reaches more than 650 million homes worldwide in 35 languages. WWE Network, the first-ever 24/7 over-the-top premium network that includes all 12 live pay-per-views, scheduled programming and a massive video-on-demand library, is currently available in more than 175 countries. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Mexico City, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Dubai, Munich and Tokyo.

Additional information on WWE (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to https://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: WWE Network; major distribution agreements; our need to continue to develop creative and entertaining programs and events; a decline in the popularity of our brand of sports entertainment; the continued importance of key performers and the services of Vincent K. McMahon; possible adverse changes in the regulatory atmosphere and related private sector initiatives; the highly competitive, rapidly changing and increasingly fragmented nature of the markets in which we operate and greater financial resources or marketplace presence of many of our competitors; uncertainties associated with international markets; our difficulty or inability to promote and conduct our live events and/or other businesses if we do not comply with applicable regulations; our dependence on our intellectual property rights, our need to protect those rights, and the risks of our infringement of others’ intellectual property rights; the complexity of our rights agreements across distribution mechanisms and geographical areas; potential substantial liability in the event of accidents or injuries occurring during our physically demanding events including, without limitation, claims relating to CTE; large public events as well as travel to and from such events; our feature film business; our expansion into new or complementary businesses and/or strategic investments; our computer systems and online operations; a possible decline in general economic conditions and disruption in financial markets; our accounts receivable; our revolving credit facility; litigation; our potential failure to meet market expectations for our financial performance, which could adversely affect our stock; Vincent K. McMahon exercising control over our affairs, and his interests may conflict with the holders of our Class A common stock; a substantial number of shares which are eligible for sale by the McMahons and the sale, or the perception of possible sales, of those shares could lower our stock price; and the relatively small public “float” of our Class A common stock. In addition, our dividend is dependent on a number of factors, including, among other things, our liquidity and cash flow, strategic plan (including alternative uses of capital), our financial results and condition, contractual and legal restrictions on the payment of dividends (including under our revolving credit facility), general economic and competitive conditions and such other factors as our Board of Directors may consider relevant. Forward-looking statements made by the Company speak only as of the date made, are subject to change without any obligation on the part of the Company to update or revise them, and undue reliance should not be placed on these statements.

Video Of Vince McMahon’s Warrior Promo, Chris Jericho Talks To Comedy Central Co-Hosts

– The co-stars of Chris Jericho’s new Comedy Central web-series, “Nothing To Report,” are the guests on the latest edition of Jericho’s “Talk Is Jericho” podcast. You can download that episode of the show right now at PodcastOne.com.

– As noted on Tuesday, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon delivered a promo as part of an intro to the “sneak peek” special of the new “Ultimate Warrior: Always Believe” documentary that premiered after RAW on the WWE Network. You can watch McMahon’s intro promo video below.

Mick Foley Taping WWE Network Comedy Special Later This Month

WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley announced today that he’ll be filming a special edition of his “Cheap Pops!” comedy show later this month that will air on the WWE Network.

Mick Foley: Cheap Pops! will be taped on April 24th from Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida, the home of NXT. No word yet on when the “one night only comedy event” will air on the Network.  Tickets are now available at RealMickFoley.com.

“Mick Foley: Cheap Pops! will feature the one and only Hardcore Legend telling stories from his time in WWE and more! With special appearances from additional WWE Superstars and Legends yet to be announced, this is a “can’t miss” event for any WWE fan!”

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross also revealed this week that he’s working on his own one-man show to air on the WWE Network.

“We are in talks with WWE to tape a version of our RINGSIDE w/ Jim Ross show for airing on the WWE Network at some point in the future.”

Jim Ross Blog: RAW Thoughts, JR Special On WWE Network?, Tough Enough

Jim Ross recently updated the blog on his official website to share his thoughts on Monday’s RAW in London, among other topics. Below are some highlights:

WWE Network airing one of his one-man shows: “We are in talks with WWE to tape a version of our RINGSIDE w/ Jim Ross show for airing on the WWE Network at some point in the future. Details are still being discussed but this could happen much sooner than later. If all the details get finalized we would likely tape the show in Orlando at the NXT Arena. Fingers crossed for this project which I hope will lead to more opportunities to contribute to @WWENetwork.”

Crowd chants at RAW: “Thought some of the insider oriented crowd chants were distracting and unnecessary. I wonder if it’s truly the fan’s expressing their feelings or simply trying to gain attention on TV? Or perhaps a little of both?”

Roman Reigns: “Roman Reigns seems to be on a more acceptable pace to become accepted by the fans who have demonstrated that they are not fans of a systematic and structured game plan to establish new, fan favorites. I like Reigns and have every confidence in him becoming a top level main eventer in WWE for years to come. The process simply takes time and careful planning and execution.”

Tough Enough: “Curious to see what the skinny is on Tough Enough returning to TV. Anxious to see the cast including the coaches. TE is a solid concept but the cast of characters that interact each week make or break the show. That’s the reality TV business in a nutshell.”

Seth Rollins: “WWE Champion Seth Rollins had a really good night in London and is improving in his role every week or so it seems to me. Smart creative to have such a talented albeit beatable WWE Champion who is surrounded by ‘protection.’ J&J Security are underrated, entertaining and add a great deal to Rollins’ presentation.”

Check out the complete blog at JRsBarBQ.com.

WWE Upset With HOF Ceremony, Top 3 Most Watched Shows In WWE Network History, More

– WWE was unhappy with this year’s Hall Of Fame induction ceremony running too long. WWE is already working on plans for next year’s ceremony, with the goal being to keep the event to three hours as originally planned.

– Chris Jericho noted last week that his WWE Network podcast with John Cena was the third most-watched live special in WWE Network history. For those curious, the first and second most-watched live specials were Steve Austin’s podcasts with Vince McMahon and Triple H.

– The April 4th NXT live event in Orlando, Florida drew approximately 350 fans. The event was sold out in advance with 250 to 300 tickets sold, and then they had a number of fans standing for the show. NXT actually had to turn fans away that night.

(Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

Backstage Update On Plans For The Format Of WWE Tough Enough, More On Host Rumors

We can now confirm the fact that the new season of WWE Tough Enough will have a more current and up-to-date feel with the new episodes that are scheduled to begin airing in June. Originally, WWE wanted to tape Tough Enough two months in advance, however the decision was made to tape the shows and air them within a few days of the taping.

Additionally, it’s now confirmed that the show will feature a lot of live elements. Fan voting is said to be a possibility, however live segments on USA Network, social media and the WWE Network are expected as well.

Although it’s been rumored that Chris Jericho will be replacing Steve Austin as the host of the show, Jericho himself stated this past week that he’s had no discussions about being part of the new Tough Enough. Then again, Jericho has a history of throwing fans off his scent when he has something planned, so you never know.

(Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

Details On Ultimate Warrior Special & Post-RAW Show Airing On WWE Network On Monday

WWE will be airing a five minute block of live RAW Fallout programming on the WWE Network immediately after Monday’s taped show from London, England airs on television. WWE Network lists the program as a “Network Exclusive.”

In addition to the RAW Fallout, WWE will be airing a preview of the new Ultimate Warrior DVD and Blu-ray on the WWE Network.

The official description for the post-RAW lineup on the WWE Network this Monday night reads as follows:

“The action continues with exclusive interviews, matches and fallout LIVE from Monday Night Raw.”

After that at 11:11pm EST, a 24 minute preview of WWE’s upcoming “Always Believe: The Ultimate Warrior” DVD and Blu-ray will air. The description for that special reads like this:

“A First Look to watch exclusive content from WWE Home Video’s latest release, Ultimate Warrior: Always Believe!”

Alex Riley Says He Can Double WWE Network Subscribers, Sheamus’ New Theme, WWE 2K16

– The name of Sheamus’ new theme song is “Hellfire.” The song was done by a band called CFO$.

– Connors Cure bracelets have been selling out at the WWE live events in the U.K. this week.

– 2K Sports noted on social media that the upcoming WWE 2K16 video game will have the largest roster of Superstars and Divas of any WWE video game in history.

– Alex Riley has been calling out NXT Champion Kevin Owens on Twitter lately. In his most recent tweet, Riley claimed he could double the WWE Network subscriber count from 1.3 million to 2.6 million. Riley tweeted the following:

https://twitter.com/AlexRileyWWE/status/586563661239574530

Backstage Update On John Cena Nearly Turning Heel, Helping Out Talents In Developmental

John Cena mentioned during his appearance on Chris Jericho’s podcast this past Monday night that he was close enough to turning heel during his feud with The Rock that he recorded new theme music and had new ring gear made.

Cena spent approximately $5,000 to have new gear made, however he ultimately cancelled the order before it was officially made. Cena told the seamstress, Sue Kotulski, to use the money he spent on new attire for the WWE talents in developmental instead of giving him a refund.

Eventually, Cena went to WWE developmental, which was in Tampa at the time, and told the same story in what ended up being referred to as “The Cena Scholarship.” Each month, coaches in WWE’s developmental system voted on who the most outstanding talents of the month were. Whoever received the most votes would get a $500 credit towards having new gear made by Kotulski.

(Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

WWE Network To Expand To New Countries, Scott Hall Breaks Down NXT, WWE Attendance

– WWE executives are in discussions to expand the WWE Network into China, Japan, India, Thailand, Germany and Malaysia.

– The following are attendance figures for RAW, SmackDown and NXT live events that took place in the past week:

April 2nd in Tampa, FL for NXT drew around 225 fans
April 3rd in Palatka, FL for NXT drew around 150 fans
April 4th in Orlando for NXT drew around 350 fans
April 6th in Austin, TX for RAW drew 6,000 fans
April 7th in Dallas for SmackDown drew 9,500 fans

– WWE Hall Of Famer Scott Hall talks about this week’s edition of NXT television in the latest installment of WWE’s “NXT Breakdown” web series, which you can check out below.

(Partial Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)