While no one is publicly contesting that Gregory Helms, Chris Jericho and Matt Hardy were involved in some sort of incident prior to Helms and Jericho getting arrested for public intoxication, wrestling insiders are disputing some portions of the story.

TMZ's most recent report alleges that Helms struck Jericho, another man (Gary Kelley) and a female (Ashley Storer). The gossip website's story says that Helms and Hardy fled the scene following the incident, only for Helms to soon return to the Kentucky gas station where he and Jericho were subsequently arrested.

F4WOnline.com, however, says wrestling insiders are disputing the claim that Helms struck the woman. The story also claims that Hardy only ran from the cab in an attempt to retrieve Helms; according to those sources, he was not trying to "get away" with anything.

-- As an additional update, it was reportedly CM Punk and Christian who posted bond to get Jericho and Helms released from custody.

Labels: chris jericho, Christian, cm punk, matt hardy

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:32 PM | Permalink | Comments

Cincinnati.com had an article up yesterday evening about the arrests of Hurricane Helms and Chris Jericho. They noted that around 4AM on Wednesday, an Erlanger police officer patrolling Crescent Springs saw a group of five people being rowdy in a shopping center parking lot. The officer told the group they needed to leave and some of them got a taxi. This was shortly before the taxi driver pulled over and called 911 after the incident in the backseat.

While other reports have came out since then, Cincinnati.com noted that Helms ran and was later found by police but Matt Hardy couldn't be found by them. It's been mentioned now that Hardy was not sober and as you read before, the woman involved is now claiming that the whole thing was blown out of proportion.

Cincinnati.com noted that a conviction on the misdemeanor charge of public intoxication carries a fine of $25 and court costs of $134. Helms and Jericho can appear in court on February 16th to challenge the charges or they can have the charges dismissed by paying $159 total before court date.

WWE released a statement to the paper saying that they assume the authorities will take proper action if necessary but declined further comment.

- Jeff Hardy commented on the situation with these messages on his Twitter: "Sure tmz picked up their mug shot..big deal..their awesome &why should that be second guessed over an extremely simple situation?Love Je ..." and "They got arrested...it's a shame they care or think it makes them look bad..their amazing employees.....&"

Jeff's girlfriend Beth, who is good friends with Helms and Matt, wrote this on her Twitter: "WOW! MMH made the TMZ headlines! He's on the scoreboard now! So hilarious that the story is about nothing...TMZ is in the entertainment business also, keep that in mind. Funny thing is, Matt wasn't even drinking & didn't have any involvement. Classic TMZ sensationalism. Actually, I was asked to post that. And, to clarify, he wasn't DRUNK. Better?"

Labels: chris jericho, gregory helms, jeff hardy

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:31 PM | Permalink | Comments

Labels: chris jericho, randy orton

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE's creative team has been told that there is no chance of The Rock vs. John Cena at WrestleMania and right now are back to working on Cena vs. Batista for the big event.

Labels: batis\, john cena, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 3:02 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE Legend The Honky Tonk Man has apparently declined WWE's offer to join the 2010 Hall of Fame. Below is the story from Honky's website:

"HTM declined the WWE offer to be inducted into the HOF class of 2010. There were multiple reasons why HTM decided against this induction. Negotiations started Friday Jan. 22 and carried over till Wed. Jan. 27 at which time HTM informed WWE that he would not be interested in this years induction into their HOF.

One of the main reasons was a conflict in the schedule. HTM is booked for the Wizard World Comic Con in Toronto for the same date WWE wanted. HTM felt he should stand by his Wizard booking since they had put out publicity on his appearance to be there. Also the Wizard booking has been on his books since early December. WWE had more than enough time to get their date locked in with HTM.

Wizard has HTM booked for 7 events this year and WWE had only 1 event for HTM. HTM would have suffered a serious negative cash flow by taking the WWE booking since they want a "no compete" clause over several months after the HOF. HTM would have been handcuffed with no way to provide income for his family during the "no compete' months. The dollar figure from WWE for the one event was less than HTM could make in one weekend at Wizard World. Therefore HTM decided 7 dates with Wizard would mean 10 times the money WWE was offering and Wizard does not have a "no compete" clause.

This is just one of several reasons HTM decided to waive the WWE offer and commit to Wizard. There will be more reasons revealed why HTM made this decision in the coming weeks. There are several, but the TNA deal was not one of them."

Labels: 2010 WWE Hall of Fame, honkey tonk man

Posted by Matt Loede at 3:01 PM | Permalink | Comments

TMZ.com sent us this update on the incident we posted about this morning involving Chris Jericho and Gregory Helms.

WWE star Matt Hardy was among a group of people involved in an early morning incident that led to the arrests of Chris Jericho and Greg "Hurricane" Helms, this according to law enforcement sources.

Witnesses told cops Hardy was in a taxi with Jericho, Helms and several others Wednesday morning -- when Helms allegedly struck three people ... including one female.

Witnesses say Hardy took off on foot -- just like Helms allegedly did -- when the cab driver pulled over at a Kentucky gas station and called 911.

We're told Helms came back to the scene and was arrested -- but Hardy was gone for good. Cops are not pursuing any sort of action against Hardy.

As we first reported, the female passenger decided not to file charges against Helms over the alleged attack. Helms and Jericho were arrested for "alcohol intoxication in a public place."

Labels: chris jericho, gregory helms

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:59 PM | Permalink | Comments

Our friends at TMZ have sent us the following:

39-year-old Jericho was taken into custody in Kenton County around 5 AM for "alcohol intoxication in a public place."

Jericho -- who was arrested along with fellow wrestler Greg "Hurricane" Helms -- was forced to smile for cop cam -- and TMZ obtained the mug shots.

Jericho and Helms were released on $120 bond -- each ... no that's not a typo.

UPDATE 10:00 AM EST: Cops say they responded to the gas station in Crescent Springs after receiving a complaint about two men fighting in a cab.

When cops arrived to the scene, they located Jericho and Helms, who were "manifestly under the influence of an alcoholic beverage." Both men were then arrested -- but cops say the wrestlers were cooperative with police.

Crescent Springs is roughly 20 miles from Cincinnati, where the two men participated in a WWE event on Tuesday night. .

Read more: http://www.tmz.com/#ixzz0dvJdxnoD

Labels: chris jericho, gregory helms

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:58 AM | Permalink | Comments

Jim Ross has updated his blog with the highlights below:

* Speaking of Cena, his interaction with Mr. McMahon on Raw was spot on and some of the best verbal interaction that I've heard in a good while. The dialog between Cena and the Chairman of WWE was organic, emotional, and really has me anxious to see Raw next week when Bret "Hitman" Hart returns to confront McMahon. Fine TV in my humble opinion.

* The serious nature of winning the Royal Rumble match and what it means individually to every competitor was underscored with Monday Night's DX in ring promo. This was another verbal exchange that captured my interest. DX in a serious tone really captivated my attention.

* I had a great conversation Sunday with JBL who, as my Grandpa used to say is as busy as a fruit merchant, and doing great while living in New York City. John is on Fox News every Saturday morning of which I enjoy plus he is still developing his distribution business for 'Layfield Energy Plus' which is is several hundred convenience stores including many Circle K's...

Labels: 2010 royal rumble, bret hart, jbl, jim ross

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:16 PM | Permalink | Comments

The following is from James Caldwell and PWTorch.com:

Former WWE champion “The Rock” Dwayne Johnson says he wants to return to WWE for a guest-hosting role or to wrestle a match only if he can “rip up” the writing for the current TV product and tap into the Attitude era with an edgier product.

Johnson shed light on what he’s meant the past few months when he has said he wants to create something special beyond just guest-hosting one episode of RAW during an interview with Live Audio Wrestling.

“I want to use the platform as a host to literally rip things open. There’s so much stuff we can do,” Johnson told John Pollock of LAW. “We’re going to create an incredible show, an incredible Raw. I’m doing another movie, but after that, we’re going to create something special, unique, something badass for the fans. Talking to Vince (McMahon), whenever that’s going to be, we’re going to have a great time.”

Johnson echoed what he said on ESPN last week that he wouldn’t rule out wrestling, but only if he can turn the writing upside down and create a compelling storyline leading to a match.

“I accomplished everything I wanted to accomplish in wrestling, so I wouldn’t rule out going back,” Johnson said. “If the match was right and we could create something really unique and cool for the fans and for my opponent and for the company, I would do it in a second.”

Johnson also said he has no interest in wrestling John Cena, but he talked about what it would take for him to work a program with Cena. The two quotes below capture in-depth Johnson’s mentality on working with WWE again.

“I’ve never been interested in wrestling John Cena. The guys I wrestled in the past – from Goldberg to Hogan to Austin – were guys who I’ve really wanted to wrestle. If it can be done creatively but not only that, it’s very important if I do back is that the writing has to be ripped open and really be pushed,” Johnson said. “I came from a time in the Attitude era where we trail-blazed a lot and were fearless in the things we said and did.”

Johnson added: “There are a lot of restrictions now on the product, which by the way, I understand, and I enjoy some of the stuff I see and I know some of the writers and they’re challenged every week, but if in fact I do go back, it would be an interesting collision of an Attitude time that I loved and the time now, but I’m sure we can always infuse things to make it work.”

Labels: john cena, the rock

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:14 PM | Permalink | Comments

Talks backstage about revamping the ECW brand have picked up within WWE as of late. No specific details regarding changes are known but some say that SyFy has began re-pushing its original idea of incorporating science fiction and alternative segments into the program. The feeling is that the ECW name will still be dropped.

Labels: ecw

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:14 PM | Permalink | Comments

Gary Stokan, President of the Atlanta Sports Council, said this week on The Sports Buffet show that Atlanta and Miami are the two choices for WWE’s WrestleMania in 2011. The announcement will be officially made on February 1st, the day after the Royal Rumble pay-per-view in Atlanta.

If Miami is chosen, Sun Life Stadium, which holds approximately 76,500 fans, would host the event. If Atlanta is chosen, the Georgia Dome which holds 71,000 would host the event. It’s worth noting that the 2010 Survivor Series is already set for Miami.

Labels: 2010 survivor Series, wrestlemania 27

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:11 PM | Permalink | Comments

AOL’s Television section is saying that WWE is currently working on a sitcom starring Santino Marella. WWE Diva Beth Phoenix is slated to play his girlfriend, and Vladimir Kozlov his best friend. “In two weeks, we’re filming the first three episodes,” Santino said. “It will air at first on the dot com, then after that we will get it to a network television.”

USA Network VP Chris McCumber however said the USA Network isn’t looking for sitcoms right now, but acknowledged Marella as a good comedic character.

When asked if it will be like reality TV, Santino said: “I think we’re going to use one or two cameras. It will kind of be like a ‘Seinfeld,’ but with me. You know, it will only be a reality show if you consider wrestling reality.”

Labels: beth phoenix, Santino Marella

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:10 PM | Permalink | Comments

- WWE creative team members had been tossing around an idea that would see Triple H and Shawn Michaels “tie” in the Royal Rumble match which would see Shawn choose to face The Undertaker at WrestleMania and see Triple H face Sheamus at WrestleMania. The idea was dropped however.

- The latest idea over this past weekend was that Triple H is the favorite to win the Rumble match this year and earn the shot against Sheamus. Rumor has it that Shawn Michaels will face Batista at Elimination Chamber to determine The Undertaker’s opponent for WrestleMania.

John Cena vs. Batista is expected to take place at the big show in Arizona this year.

Labels: 2010 royal rumble, shawn michaels, sheamus, triple h

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:08 PM | Permalink | Comments

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's "Tooth Fairy" got off to a fairly slow start Friday, earning just $3.5 million for fourth place at the box office.

While the family-skewing film will recover somewhat due to presumably successful matinee business Saturday, it will still make for the worst opening weekend performance of Johnson's career as far as his youth-targeted movies are concerned.

By comparison, "The Game Plan" opened with $6.3 million on its first Friday. "Race to Witch Mountain" started with $6.7 million.

Elsewhere, new release "Legion" landed in second with $6.7 million, while "Extraordinary Measures" was sixth with $2 million.

Labels: the rock

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:35 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE
Diva Kelly Kelly and the late Andrew "Test" Martin were not dating at the time of his unfortunate passing, but the wrestler's ex-girlfriend tells The Daily Star that the deceased wrestler remains on her mind.

"Not a day goes by when I don’t think about Andrew. He was an amazing person who had so much love to give the world – he loved wrestling," says Kelly. "I like to talk about him – to tell the world how great a man he was. He was a big part of my life, we were together for two-and-a-half years. When I first started, Andrew looked after me."

She adds that Test, who died in March of 2009, was the "love of her life."

Since Test's passing, Kelly explains that she has been dedicated to improving as an in-ring performer.

Noting that the Divas make the same time commitment to WWE as the male Superstars, she stresses, "We’re all good-looking girls but we want to be seen as legitimate athletes and not just pretty faces. "

"We’ll prove to the world that we do belong in there with the guys," adds Kelly, who credits Katie Lea for teaching her a lot about the in-ring side of wrestling.

Labels: kelly kelly, Test

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:34 PM | Permalink | Comments

-- WWE has added Michelle McCool vs. Mickie James for the WWE Women's Championship to the Royal Rumble line-up.

-- The following have also been added to the Royal Rumble match, which now has 24 entrants:

* Batista
* Chris Jericho
* CM Punk
* Kane
* Great Khali

-- Drew McIntyre vs. John Morrison for the Intercontinental Title (No DQ Match) and DX vs. CM Punk and Luke Gallows for the Unified Tag-Team Titles have been added to next week's SmackDown line-up.

Labels: 2010 royal rumble, john morrison

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:32 PM | Permalink | Comments

Labels: Jonathan Coachman, the rock

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:28 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Randy Orton wrote a message on his website regarding the alleged incident after the recent WWE show in Boston at Kowloon’s restaurant. Here’s Orton’s side of the story:

“Here’s what happened: I walked out of Kowloon’s Friday night around 12:30-1 a.m. with Santino and a police officer escort. As I was being rudely hounded for pictures and autos (I had a 6:40 a.m. flight through Minni to Lincoln, then a drive to Omaha, a match, a drive back to Omaha, then a charter to Minni, and a driver to Rochester for the next show the next day, btw), I was confronted by an older women who said: ‘Hey Randy, you spit on my handicapped son a few years ago at a show, what do you have to say about that?’ My replay…`So Sue me.’ Then I proceeded to my car, with Santino and the cop and drove back to our hotel by the Boston airport. I know I have been a bit of a hothead in the past, but I DID NOT spit gum and call names to any child. The women is claiming I called her son a `retard’ 3 times, and spit gum in his face. Come on people, even at my worst temperament, I would never call a handicapped child something awful like that. I’ll actually sign anything for any child with any disability. I heard just today from WWE attorneys that this women filed assault charges against me 4 days later? Hmmm, oh, and what about the dozens of cops at the restaurant that were there for crowd control since there were over 100 wrestling fans there? Not to mention the cop that escorted me to my freaking car. I’ll be happy when this is over. I guess if I’ve learned anything from this, it is not to ever challenge anyone to sue me.”

Labels: randy orton

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:28 PM | Permalink | Comments

There are conflicting reports coming in on Jeff Hardy’s status with TNA. Sources in the company are saying that Hardy has signed a contract with the company while friends of Hardy have said that he told them he has absolutely not signed a deal. The fact Hardy hasn’t appeared with TNA since January 4th would indicate that he hasn’t signed or committed to any dates.

It’s said that WWE still wants Hardy back eventually. Hardy was apparently upset at the recent segments on WWE’s SmackDown with CM Punk where Punk poked fun at him. One person close to Hardy said that one of the reasons he decided to appear on January 4th was just to prove a point to WWE. Word is that friends of Hardy are telling him that at the end of the day, Jeff in TNA is a bad move because he comes across as a much bigger star with WWE.

Labels: cm punk, jeff hardy, tna

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:27 PM | Permalink | Comments

Below are highlights from Jim Ross' recent blog update on JRsbarbq.com:

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Returning To WWE: "Loved it on Letterman when Dwayne said that he would always be "The Rock" which was not only true but had to make wrestling fans around the Globe feel good. I don't ever see the Rock wrestling again but I know that he will host Raw sometime in the future to reconnect with his fans and to promote his latest project."

Writing An Autobiography: "My overwhelming preference would be to do the book with WWE and to simply tell my story as best I know how. Every day of my career hasn't been a bed of roses, whose life is, but I can assure any one that wants to listen that I have had MANY, more great days than negative ones in my 36 years in the biz."

Will He Be At The Royal Rumble? "Life is good and I am getting excited to watch the Royal Rumble match on PPV from my old, home base of Atlanta and only wish that I was going to be a part of it but I will definitely be there in spirit."

Labels: jim ross, the rock

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:55 AM | Permalink | Comments

Although Batista is advertised for the Royal Rumble, it is possible he may yet be added to the Undertaker vs. Rey Mysterio match. In a satellite interview to promote Royal Rumble in Mexico last week, Mysterio did say that it would be a three-way match at the PPV. Whether they are going to add Batista at the last minute or if this was only the plan for that time, we do not know.

Labels: 2010 royal rumble, batista, rey mysterio, undertaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:54 AM | Permalink | Comments

Reports of Undertaker experiencing significant pain during his recent house show matches are true, although claims that he is definitely looking at WrestleMania 26 as an end date are not so accurate. There has indeed been talk that Undertaker's days as an active wrestler are numbered, but as such talk dates back for more than ten years, many are beyond suspicious about whether he has any actual interest in a near-future retirement.

Labels: undertaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:54 AM | Permalink | Comments

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson spoke to Sports Illustrated this week to promote his new "Tooth Fairy" movie. To read the full interview, visit SI.com.

During the interview, the former WWE superstar stated once again that he wants to return to WWE to host WWE RAW and was actually supposed to host the show earlier this month:

"I do plan on going back and hosting. I was actually gonna go back this month, but the day I was going to host, I had to go to Mexico for promotion of the movie, so we had to cancel that," Johnson said.

Johnson says his return to WWE, rumored to take place this summer, will be more than just a typical one-night guest hosting gig:

"I've remained close with Vince McMahon over the years, but here's the key. It's not just to go back and host. I don't want to do that. I want to go back and host and do something special. I want to entertain the fans in ways they haven't been entertained in years."

Labels: the rock, vince mcmahon

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:53 AM | Permalink | Comments

CBS's "The Late Show with David Letterman" on Tuesday featured Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, who was there to promote The Tooth Fairy movie.

Letterman touched on Johnson's football career at the University of Miami, and then went onto professional wrestling. When asked about returning to WWE, Johnson had the following to say:

"No, not necessarily for a match," Johnson said. "That provided me with a great platform, performing in front of people. So f I ever went back, it would be probably in the capacity of hosting and having fun on the show and entertaining and having a great time."

Labels: the rock

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:53 PM | Permalink | Comments

There is talk that Bryan Danielson could debut on SmackDown soon as part of the CM Punk storyline. Danielson made his FCW debut against Kaval (Low Ki) at the developmental tapings last Thursday, with the pair having a typical WWE type match with less risks and bumps.

Labels: Bryan Danielson, cm punk

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:49 PM | Permalink | Comments

Below is the official preview and full content listing for WWE's upcoming Shawn Michaels DVD titled My Journey.

Shawn Michaels is one of the most charismatic and talented athletes in the history of entertainment. For more than 20 years he has wowed crowds, earning accolades, championships and numerous monikers, including “The Icon,” “The Main Event,” and “Mr. WrestleMania.” Now, for the first time ever, Shawn Michaels sits down and in an intimate interview retraces his early days in Texas through his Rocker tag-team partnership in AWA and WWE through his multiple reigns as WWE Champion. Shawn Michaels: My Journey offers surprising insights and absolute candor as he relives the highs and lows of his historic career. Over 20 amazing matches from the 80s, 90s and 2000s —most available on DVD for the very first time—demonstrate why Shawn Michaels is truly “The Showstopper.”

Disc 1

A Boy in a Man’s World

Shawn Michaels vs. One Man Gang
World Class Championship Wrestling January 11, 1985

Our Big Event

Midnight Rockers vs. ‘Playboy’ Buddy Rose / ‘Pretty Boy’ Doug Summers
AWA WrestleRock April 20, 1986

Rockin’ All Night

AWA World Tag Team Championship
Midnight Rockers vs. Nasty Boys
AWA Championship Wrestling March 5, 1988

“They Wanted Us”

Rockers vs. Brain Busters
Boston Garden March 18, 1989

Tag Team Success

Rockers vs. Hart Foundation
Madison Square Garden November 25, 1989

Going Solo

Intercontinental Championship
Shawn Michaels vs. Bret Hart
Ottawa, Ontario June 2, 1992
Alternate Commentary: Michael Cole / Shawn Michaels

Always Having Fun with Davey

Shawn Michaels vs. British Bulldog
RAW March 6, 1995

Contrasting Styles

Intercontinental Championship
Shawn Michaels vs. Sid Vicious
RAW September 11, 1995

High Flyers

Shawn Michaels vs. 1-2-3 Kid
RAW March 4, 1996

Disc 2

The Champion

Shawn Michaels vs. Mankind
RAW August 11, 1997

D-Generation X

WWE European Championship
British Bulldog vs. Shawn Michaels
One Night Only September 20, 1997

This Is Going To Be Art

Casket Match for the WWE Championship
Shawn Michaels vs. Undertaker
Royal Rumble January 18, 1998

Ups & Downs

Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho
WrestleMania XIX March 30, 2003

My Friend

Shawn Michaels vs. Ric Flair
Bad Blood June 15, 2003
Alternate Commentary: Michael Cole / Shawn Michaels

High Expectations

Shawn Michaels vs. Kurt Angle
WrestleMania 21 April 3, 2005

Montreal & The Hulkster

Shawn Michaels Promo in Montreal on Hulk Hogan
RAW August 15, 2005

Disc 3

Tribute to the Troops

Boot Camp Match
Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H
RAW December 19, 2005
Alternate Commentary: Michael Cole / Shawn Michaels

The Veteran

Fatal 4-Way Match for the WWE Championship
John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels vs. Edge vs. Randy Orton
Backlash April 29, 2007

Legend Killer

WWE Championship Match
Shawn Michaels vs. Randy Orton
Survivor Series November 18, 2007

The Family Man

Unsanctioned Match
Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho
Unforgiven September 7, 2008

Mr. WrestleMania

Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels
WrestleMania 25 April 5, 2009

Greatest Ever?

Labels: michael cole, shawn michaels, undertaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:38 PM | Permalink | Comments

Here is the official list of participants for the 30-man Royal Rumble match at this year’s pay-per-view. You’ll notice that there are two spots left open.

RAW: Big Show, Cody Rhodes, Carlito, Evan Bourne, Jack Swagger, John Cena, Kofi Kingston, Mark Henry, MVP, Santino Marella, Shawn Michaels, Ted DiBiase, The Miz and Triple H

SmackDown: Batista, Chris Jericho, CM Punk, Dolph Ziggler, Drew McIntyre, Finlay, John Morrison, Kane, Matt Hardy and R-Truth

ECW: Shelton Benjamin, Vladimir Kozlov, Yoshi Tatsu and Zack Ryder

Labels: 2010 royal rumble, RAW

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:37 PM | Permalink | Comments

Edge’s rehab for his achilles injury is ahead of schedule and WWE officials are expecting him to return at the Royal Rumble pay-per-view in two weeks. It’s possible that Edge will cost Chris Jericho the Royal Rumble match, setting up their bout at WrestleMania 26.

Labels: 2010 royal rumble, chris jericho, edge

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:36 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: PWInsider.com

A lot of people within WWE are still wondering if The Undertaker’s last match will be at WrestleMania 26 this year. Taker is said to be in real bad shape right now and a lot of people are privately wondering how long he will last.

Labels: undertaker, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:35 PM | Permalink | Comments

Variety reports today that Vince McMahon has taken full control over how WWE Films distributes their future movies. Samuel Goldwyn Films will now handle WWE’s theatrical releases while Vivendi Entertainment will distribute the direct-to-DVD movies.

According to Variety, WWE Studios will finance and produce nine movies through 2010. They’re hoping to retain the rights to movies in case WWE starts its on TV channel, they can air them there.

Budgets for the movies will be in the $5 million range so that’s at least $45 million that WWE will be spending on their film division over the next few years.

Labels: vince mcmahon, wwe films

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:34 PM | Permalink | Comments

Credit: F4WOnline.com

According to Dave Meltzer, Randy Orton’s frustration with Kofi Kingston during their match on RAW was legitimate. Orton felt that Kingston should not have sold Ted DiBiase’s forearm.

Orton was seen on-camera shouting “stupid”, among other obscenities, at Kingston when Orton covered Kingston during the match. Orton was visibily upset when he got to the backstage area.

The same type of event occurred during a match with Mr. Kennedy last year, which lead to Kennedy’s release. However, nothing major is expected to happen to Kofi Kingston.

Labels: kofi kingston, randy orton

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:06 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE announced the track listing for their upcoming compilation album, WWE The Music – A New Day, which would be the 10th volume.

Here is the track listing:

1. “It’s a New Day” (performed by Adelitas Way) – Legacy
2. “I Am Perfection” – Dolph Ziggler
3. “I Came to Play” (performed by Downstait) – The Miz
4. “Just Close Your Eyes” (performed by Story of the Year) – Christian
5. “Return the Hitman” – Bret Hart
6. “Written in My Face” – Sheamus
7. “Insatiable” – Tiffany
8. “Domination” – Ezekiel Jackson
9. “Born to Win” (performed by Mutiny Within) – Evan Bourne
10. “Oh Puerto Rico” – Primo
11. “Radio” – Zack Ryder
12. “New Foundation” – The Hart Dynasty
13. “You Can Look (But You Can’t Touch)” (performed by Kim Sozzi) – Bella Twins
14. “Crank The Walls Down” (performed by Maylene and the Sons of Disaster – Chris Jericho and Big Show

Labels: legacy, the miz, wwe The music Volume 10

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:05 PM | Permalink | Comments

As noted before, WWE’s DVD set on the Hart family is scheduled for an April 6th release. Bret Hart is going to have a hand in putting together the final product. The Hitman spent a few days in Stamford, CT last week working on the DVD. WWE has contacted a number of Hart family members including Bret’s sister-in-laws Diana and Ellie, who he had been on bad terms with for years.

Labels: bret hart

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:04 PM | Permalink | Comments

Hulk Hogan appeared at the TV critics press event in California this past Friday to support Spike TV and TNA iMPACT but had nothing but good things to say about Linda McMahon and her senate bid.

Hogan said, “I think she’s going to win. She’s brilliant. She’s a very gracious, very smart lady, and her intent and her agenda has always been to help the community and be plugged in and be involved. Inside or outside that wrestling world that the McMahons have created, Linda McMahon is a great person.”

Hogan didn’t have the same to say about Vince McMahon. He said, “My philosophy is different than the WWE model where Vince McMahon will ride someone until they drop. He will shoot them and eat them. A transition must be made between new stars and the old. Nothing has to be edgy and personal and pull the carpet out from under people. There’s a way to make all of this work, but the focus has to be on the future, and that’s one of the things that has to happen. And that’s the biggest mistake that Vince McMahon made. My time should be over. I should be done and gone. There should have been two generations already that should have replaced me. But because things were executed correctly, I’m alive and well, and I can sell out any ring in the country right now.”

Labels: hulk hogan, linda mcmahon

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:04 PM | Permalink | Comments

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson confirmed to Slam Wrestling this weekend recent reports that he was scheduled to host RAW this past Monday but those plans were nixed because of Tooth Fairy promotional work in Mexico. The Rock said that the idea of returning to WWE is intriguing and exciting to him and he will “absolutely” return. He says he and Vince McMahon are trying to come up with something for his return, possibly in the Summer.

Labels: the rock

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:03 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE announced the following on their website today:

WWE has come to terms on the release of Smackdown superstar Eric Escobar as of Jan. 17, 2010. WWE wishes Eric all the best in his future endeavors.

Labels: eric escobar

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:02 PM | Permalink | Comments

As set up on RAW two weeks ago, it appears that The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels is planned again for this year’s WrestleMania 26. The Undertaker is scheduled to appear on RAW this Monday. On December 28th, when Vince McMahon was making his announcement about Bret Hart hosting RAW on January 4th, Shawn Michaels came out to interrupt Vince and it wasn't to ask McMahon about Bret, but was rather to ask Vince for a match against the Undertaker at WrestleMania 26.

It looks like WWE will be moving forward with the match, as the Undertaker is schedule to appear on RAW this Monday to confront Shawn Michaels. WWE.com has confirmed The Undertaker's appearance on RAW this Monday.

Canadian cable provider, Rogers, provided the following preview for RAW: “The Undertaker makes a rare RAW appearance to confront Shawn Michaels about Wrestlemania.” In a related side note, Don Johnson and Jon Heder (Napolean Dynomite) are set to host this Monday's RAW.

Labels: RAW, shawn michaels, undertaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:01 PM | Permalink | Comments

Below is the full content listing for WWE's John Morrison: Rock Star DVD set, which comes out on February 16th, 2010:

He’s the Shaman of Sexy, the Friday Night Delight. John Morrison is one of WWE’s best and brightest rising stars, having held numerous tag team championships, first as part of MNM and then with The Miz. He’s also had great solo success, earning the ECW and Intercontinental championships. The DVD is packed with a revealing 1-hour documentary, as well as bonus matches, interviews, Dirt Sheet segments, and more.

The Dream Begins

ECW Championship Match
John Morrison vs. CM Punk
ECW September 4, 2007

Best of the Dirt Sheet

Miz & Morrison vs. D-Generation-X (Triple H and Shawn Michaels)
RAW November 3, 2008

Straight from the Palace of Wisdom

John Morrison vs. Evan Bourne
ECW April 14, 2009

Parkour Training

John Morrison vs. Chris Jericho
WWE Superstars
June 11, 2009

The Shaolin Master of Movement

John Morrison vs. Edge
SmackDown June 19, 2009

Anatomy of the Aerial Attack

John Morrison vs. CM Punk
SmackDown June 26, 2009

Making a Surfboard

World Heavyweight Championship Match
John Morrison vs. Jeff Hardy
SmackDown July 31, 2009

One with the Ocean

Intercontinental Championship Match
John Morrison vs. Rey Mysterio
SmackDown September 4, 2009

The Journey Continues…

Bonus Features
John Morrison is Born
ECW July 17, 2007

Labels: john morrison

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:54 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: F4Wonline.com

As noted before, the original plan before this past weekend was for Sheamus to defend the WWE Title against John Cena at the Royal Rumble pay-per-view. Those plans were changed with Randy Orton getting the title shot.

The match may have been changed because word is that John Cena is plagued by back problems with bulging discs. No word yet on the severity of Cena's injury or what may come out of it.

Labels: 2010 royal rumble, john cena, sheamus

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:55 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Bret Hart first contacted WWE in February of 2009 to let them know that he was open to returning for a storyline. Hart's girlfriend was going to school in Calgary and he would be based out of Calgary for a few years instead of Hawaii, where he had been. Bret was getting bored with retirement and thought of getting back into wrestling.

Bret notes that there were times when WWE seemed interested and other times when they really didn't seem interested in his return at all. He told them a few times that if they weren't that interested, he was fine with that and then he would always hear immediately back from them with interest. Talks for this year's WrestleMania angle got serious last September.

There is a storyline in place through WrestleMania between Hart and Vince McMahon with hope for some sort of street fight or at least a showdown between the two at WrestleMania. Due to concussions from the past and his stroke in 2002, Hart is very limited to what he can do in the ring. He can't take a traditional flat back bump. Obviously challenges like these could affect what happens between Bret and Vince. The original script for the RAW angle a few weeks back was for Vince to slap Bret in the face. Because of the concussion issue, they changed it to a kick in the stomach. It actually ended up being a kick to the groin from Vince, a miscue that Bret felt made the segment better.

Both Bret and WWE have laid out the basic details of the storyline and agreed on them. Each side has veto power regarding minor details. Hart is scheduled to return at next week's RAW and is scheduled to be a regular on RAW through February. Bret's contract with WWE is for through April and is only for this storyline. Bret is said to be open to ideas if WWE is interested in using him past that point and is open to signing a longer contract. If no contract would be offered, he is still open to appearing on the occasional show for the next few years while he's mostly based out of Calgary.

Other sources report that revealing Bret's stroke from 2002 in the storyline has been talked about. Apparently it will be a significant part of the angle at some point. Bret's concussion issue is less likely to be brought up because it's such a sensitive issue right now.

On the plane trip from Hawaii to RAW, Bret's sciatic nerve in his lower back was acting up badly, causing concern that he would be limping to the ring. Bret rested after the trip and was pain free by the time RAW came on Monday night.

Labels: bret hart

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:54 PM | Permalink | Comments

When Jeff Hardy made an on-air return to TNA in concert with news that he had been indicted on drug related charges, many initially assumed that the two were directly related.

Some speculated that because WWE would not want to use a wrestler in the wake of a public indictment, Hardy's only real option was TNA--any interest he had in the company was amplified.

According to F4WOnline.com, however, the idea that WWE did not want Hardy could not be further from the truth. Sources say WWE officials were in constant contact with Jeff Hardy on January 5 with the hope that he would change his mind and return to WWE.

WWE's apparent interest in overlooking the PR backlash of bringing Hardy back is being taken by some as an indication that the company is not totally writing TNA off as irrelevant. If the company believed Hardy working for TNA posed absolutely no threat, its willingness to subject the company and Linda McMahon's political campaign to media heat would simply not have existed.

Labels: jeff hardy

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:52 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE Diva Maria tells the U.K. Sun that he’s already looking to pursue other opportunities beyond WWE so she can settle down and start a family. “I’m starting to do other things and it’s partially because one day I want to be a mom and I want to get married and you can’t really do that when you’re on the road,” Maria told Sky Sports News on a U.K. promotional tour this week. “So I’ve got to find a job that will allow me to do that.”

Maria, who will appear with former WWE & WCW champion Bill Goldberg on the upcoming “Celebrity Apprentice” show hosted by Donald Trump, is following in the footsteps of Mickie James and is also releasing an album this spring. “I’ve been with WWE for five years, so I don’t know when is going to be the end,” she said. “But I am looking at outside projects right now and doing other things..”

Labels: maria

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:52 PM | Permalink | Comments

The USA Network will be airing the 2010 WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Saturday, March 27th from 11pm until midnight with no replay this year. Considering that they will be broadcasting the show at 11pm, it’s a sign that WWE will keep with the shorter version of the Hall of Fame that they went with last year. Expect inductees to be very limited when it comes to the time they’re allowed for their speeches.

Labels: 2010 WWE Hall of Fame

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:34 PM | Permalink | Comments

The original plan for the WWE Title match at the Royal Rumble pay-per-view was for Sheamus to defend against John Cena. The decision to put Randy Orton against Sheamus was made over the weekend.

Labels: randy orton, sheamus

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:33 PM | Permalink | Comments

According to WWE.com, Stone Cold Steve Austin will host Raw on March 15th. Just like the Mike Tyson hosting RAW story that was pulled from the website, this article may be pulled as well. The following is from WWE.com:

Less than two weeks before WrestleMania XXVI, WWE Hall of Famer "Stone Cold" Steve Austin hosts Raw on March 15. The WWE Universe should certainly mark their calendars for the legendary Rattlesnake's return, as it is sure to turn WWE's flagship show upside down. Though it's uncertain what will happen when Stone Cold takes his place at the head of Raw for one night only, there's no doubt that he'll be looked at as one of Raw's most controversial special guest hosts.

Labels: RAW, steve austin

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:32 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: F4WOnline.com

-- Bret Hart will be back on WWE TV next week when he appears on RAW. It's expected that the WWE Hall of Famer will now be a regular character leading up to WrestleMania.

The angle between McMahon and Hart has been scripted all the way to the planned WrestleMania match, with Hart having input in the planning.

Also speaking of Hart, his merchandise on WWE.com is said to be selling like crazy.

Labels: bret hart, vince mcmahon

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:57 PM | Permalink | Comments

Apparently WWE and Stacy Keibler are now working together to get her on RAW as a special guest host soon. The two sides went back and forth with each other recently but now it looks like Stacy will most likely be hosting RAW before WrestleMania.

Labels: Stacy Keibler

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:57 PM | Permalink | Comments

Jim Ross is back with another blog and Q/A update on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some of the highlights:

- As we speculated here, it seems, at least according to the INTERNET, that Steve Austin will return to Raw as the Guest Host in March in advance of WM26 and to promote the DVD release of his film entitled "Damage." I assume this info is accurate but I have not talked to Steve about it but if it is true then it will be a good thing for Monday Night Raw and for Stone Cold which results in the desired win/win . We've already received some emails here asking if I would be a part of that particular Raw and my answer is a simple, non complicated, Gorilla Monsoon-esque, "Highly Unlikely." Some fans are already busy producing the proposed Stone Cold Raw with me included which is drastically premature and high speculative. I will admit that mid March will likely be an interesting time for me on a professional basis. Steve and I have a great relationship and a long history together on WWE TV but he has his agenda and I have mine and the two don't necessarily include the other at every turn in the road. That's not a complaint but it's simply real life.

- Been reading on line some interviews with those in the biz who feel that Cage Matches need not a winner via the stipulations set forth in the presentation. I could not disagree more. Cage Matches were created to bring about closure, literally and figuratively, and to have a disqualification in a cage match is wrong...in my opinion. Granted, my opinion may not be 100% accurate either but it's my opinion nonetheless.

- I really don't know what the future holds regarding broadcasting but I don't think that I will have any issues finding ways to contribute no matter where I hang my hat. If there is not a viable role available for me to contribute in a significant way, I can easily move on to other projects. As I have said, time will tell but being back on Raw would be my preference.

Labels: jim ross, steve austin

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:56 PM | Permalink | Comments

Ezekiel Jackson earned an ECW Title shot on tonight's show by winning the ECW Homecoming Over-The-Top-Rope Challenge

Ezekiel will face ECW Champion Christian at the Royal Rumble pay-per-view.

Labels: 2010 royal rumble, Ezekiel Jackson

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:55 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: PWInsider.com

WWE released former ECW roster member Steve "DJ Gabriel" Lewington Friday afternoon. He had been under contract to WWE since April of 2006.

Lewington was split from Alicia Fox last April in the Supplemental Draft and after WWE creative had nothing else for him, he was sent to Florida to train at developmental.

There are rumors of more WWE developmental releases yesterday but those are not confirmed.

Labels: DJ Gabriel

Posted by Matt Loede at 3:05 PM | Permalink | Comments

The new issue of the PW Torch Newsletter speculates that Rob Van Dam may make a surprise WWE return at the Royal Rumble. Apparently RVD has told people that he hasn't spoken with TNA officials since November.

A source close to Van Dam feels he would be open to the idea of a short stint with WWE if the money and creative plans were right.

Labels: 2010 royal rumble, rvd

Posted by Matt Loede at 3:04 PM | Permalink | Comments

World Wrestling Entertainment(R) and Kmartannounced today they have again collaborated to create "Royal Riches," an exclusive, multiplatform marketing promotion supporting WWE's first pay-per-view event of 2010, Royal Rumble(R). Royal Rumble is taking place Sunday, Jan. 31 at the Philips Arena in Atlanta, Ga., marking the kick off to the "Road to WrestleMania(R) XXVI."

From Jan. 10 through Jan. 31, all Kmart stores will feature product boutiques showcasing WWE licensed merchandise including men's and boys' apparel, footwear, bedding, DVDs, and video games. Additionally, Kmart will debut Mattel's new line of WWE action figures and accessories. Consumers who purchase $35 or more of WWE merchandise at Kmart will receive $10 off their Royal Rumble pay-per-view order. Consumers also have the opportunity to win other promotional offers through the duration of the program including further discounts on WWE merchandise, and an opportunity to win a trip for two to WrestleMania XXVI on March 28 at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz.

"Kmart continues to look for ways to bring value to our customers by offering exclusive and exciting products through our relationship with WWE," said Mark Snyder, chief marketing officer, Kmart. "Whether in store or online, Kmart's customers know they can find all of their favorite WWE products in one place."

"After the overwhelming success of last year's collaboration with Kmart, we are thrilled to expand our efforts by coming together again to offer WWE fans a great value for their shopping dollars and build excitement around our Royal Rumble pay-per-view event," said Jim Connelly, senior vice president, Consumer Products, WWE.

Kmart will feature select WWE merchandise available for purchase online at www.kmart.com/wwe, as well as a dedicated WWE section in its weekly circular. The microsite will feature live chats with WWE Superstars on Monday, Jan. 11 and Monday, Jan. 18 giving fans the chance to communicate directly with their favorite WWE Superstars. WWE will support the promotion through WWE Superstar and Diva meet and greets at select Kmart stores, as well as in-store radio and in-store TV broadcasts. In addition "Royal Riches" will be promoted in WWE Magazine, live events and online.

In select markets (tentative schedule below) Kmart and WWE will conduct in-store appearances and autograph sessions with WWE Superstars including:

Jan. 10 (Minneapolis): Ted DiBiase - 3 to 5 p.m. at 14230 Burnhaven Dr., Burnsville, Minn.

Jan. 16 (Birmingham): Ted DiBiase - 1 to 3 p.m. at 5980 Chalkville Mountain, Birmingham, Ala.

Jan. 23 (Chicago): Rey Mysterio - 1 to 3 p.m. at 3443 W. Addison, Chicago, Ill.

Jan. 26 (Columbus): Ted DiBiase - 6 to 8 p.m. at 5005 Olentagy River Rd., Columbus, Ohio

Labels: 2010 royal rumble

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:17 PM | Permalink | Comments

After working an off-camera match at this week's WWE RAW event, touted indy pickup Bryan Danielson is now scheduled for a WWE developmental appearance.

Danielson has been booked for the 1/14 Florida Championship Wrestling TV taping, as per a confirmation from WWE's developmental promotion this week.

In promotional material for the event, Danielson has received second-from-the-top billing behind WWE Diva Eve. A banner currently posted on FCWWrestling.info lets fans know that they will have the chance to "Meet WWE Diva Eve...Plus WWE's Newest Superstar Bryan Danielson" at the show next week

Labels: Bryan Danielson

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:16 PM | Permalink | Comments

This probably doesn't mean much but WWE has had ads running in the Texas area for a May live event in Lubbock advertising Triple H vs. John Cena vs. Edge for the WWE Title as the main event.

While you can't read too much into title plans by this advertisement, it is possible that this is a sign WWE has plans for Edge to be on the RAW brand. It's been talked about that the Draft will be held again this year after WrestleMania 26 so maybe Edge switches brands in the Draft.

Labels: edge, john cena, triple h

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:15 PM | Permalink | Comments

As talked about many times before, WWE is planning on turning Ted DiBiase babyface before WrestleMania. A slip on the WWE website last week proved this. There was talk this past week of having DiBiase eliminate Randy Orton from the Royal Rumble match as a way to push DiBiase as a babyface singles star and begin the build for their WrestleMania match.

Labels: randy orton, Ted DiBiase Jr

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:15 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE's corporate website has released some new financial information for the fall and the disturbing trend of pay-per-view buyrates dropping continues.

Survivor Series 2009 back in November drew only 225,000 buys, down a sharp 29.5% from Survivor Series 2008, which did 319,000 buys. Compared to 2007 (when the event drew 341,000 buys), this year's show is down a whopping 34%.

Survivor Series 2009 was headlined by two triple-threat matches, Cena vs. HBK vs. HHH and Undertaker vs. Jericho vs. Big Show. The buildup for the PPV was lackluster to say the least, with Triple H and Shawn Michaels even joking in promos leading up to the PPV that they were not taking the match seriously.

Labels: 2009 Survivor Series

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:12 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: PWTorch.com Newsletter

Hulk Hogan was said to be very stressed backstage at iMPACT on Monday, and feels the company has organizational issues. TNA was still filming pre-tapes late in the day, and it was said to be a very chaotic atmosphere for Hulk compared to the treatment he was used to in WCW and WWE.

Hogan held a meeting with the TNA roster prior to the show, which was described as a basic pep talk meeting. Hulk told the wrestlers that he’s looking forward to getting to know them all. He told them his door is always open, and gave the impression that he and Bischoff are running the show, although Vince Russo is still handling his usual backstage duties.

Some backstage sources say Russo came across as withdrawn, and after the show was telling people he had no idea what the storyline direction will be going forward.

Labels: hulk hogan, tna

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:03 PM | Permalink | Comments

Below is the official synopsis for WWE’s upcoming Shawn Michaels DVD titled My Journey:

“”The Heartbreak Kid is one of the most celebrated and talented superstars in the history of Sports Entertainment. Shawn Michaels’ career has spanned more than 25 years and has produced one great match after another, earning him his “Showstopper” moniker. Now fans can relive this superlative career with “Shawn Michaels: His 25 Greatest Matches”, a 3-disc set with more than nine hours of matches. This DVD presents Michaels’ great bouts from every phase of his life, from early tag-team matches as a member of the Rockers through his highly decorated championship reigns. The matches include new commentary and reflections from the Showstopper himself, as well as partners and adversaries throughout the years.”

Labels: shawn michaels

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:01 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has udpated his jrsbarbq.com blog with his thoughts on whether WWE legends Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Stone Cold Steve Austin would return for a night to guest host an episode of RAW.

Regarding Johnson, Jim Ross said he was under the impression that The Rock was going to guest-host an episode of Raw in January, but scheduling conflicts “eliminated that opportunity.” Johnson’s new “Toothfairy” movie comes out this month, which would have been the promotional tie-in for Johnson to guest-host. Commercials for Johnson’s “Tooth Fairy” movie have been seen during all WWE shows over the past two weeks.

Johnson said two months ago that he was working on a TV project with WWE beyond just guest hosting RAW for 1 week. Johnson has yet to provide an update on the status of the project.

As for Steve Austin, JR also said he “assumes” Steve Austin will guest host RAW, possibly in March to help promote Austin’s new straight-to-DVD film “Damage” (and of course, WrestleMania).

Labels: jim ross, steve austin, the rock

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:59 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE has announced that William Shatner will be the special guest host of the February 1st episode of Monday Night RAW from Nashville, Tennessee.

Shatner will be promoting The Hollywood Charity Horse Show, where the proceeds go to various children's charities.

Labels: RAW

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:15 AM | Permalink | Comments

WWE sources were reportedly caught off guard by Jeff Hardy's appearance on iMPACT, as there was been a rumor floating around that Hardy had verbally agreed to return to WWE. Hardy's contract with TNA is believed to be a short-term deal.

Labels: jeff hardy, tna

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:14 AM | Permalink | Comments

After Mnday night’s RAW went off the air, Bret Hart’s music played as the entire RAW roster, with the exception of DX, and The Hart Dynasty came to the ring to cheer for The Hitman. Bret was lifted on their shoulders and paraded around the ring.

The RAW Superstars returned to the stage while Bret celebrated and took his time going around the ring shaking hands with the fans.

Labels: bret hart

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:13 AM | Permalink | Comments

Source: PWInsider

- Bret Hart was at RAW last night with his girlfriend. He spent a lot of time introducing himself to the locker room, since Triple H, Shawn Michaels and Mark Henry were the only superstars on the roster since his last stint in the company.

Although The Hart Dynasty were brought in for the show, there were never plans to use them, and they were there as trusted and known faces to Hart.

Hart stayed at the same hotel as the rest of the WWE crew and spent over an hour signing and taking photos for fans in the lobby.

Labels: bret hart, RAW

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:12 AM | Permalink | Comments

- Last night’s episode of the three-hour TNA iMPACT with Hulk Hogan scored a 1.5 cable rating. We don’t have anymore details on the rating right now but they will be available soon.

- Last night’s episode of WWE’s Monday Night RAW with the return of Bret Hart scored a 3.37 cable rating on the USA Network. Like the iMPACT rating, we do not have a breakdown of the numbers yet so stay tuned.

Labels: bret hart, RAW, tna

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:10 AM | Permalink | Comments

World Wrestling Entertainment has announced that Divas champion Melina has vacated her championship title due to injury.

WWE acknowledged that she suffered an injury, but did not elaborate that her injury is a torn ACL suffered at last Tuesday's Raw house show.

WWE said an 8-diva tournament will begin on tonight's Raw to determine the new champion. No participants have been announced at this time.

Labels: melina

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:11 PM | Permalink | Comments

Word is that WWE offered Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson the guest host spot for the January 11th RAW but the offer was turned down. WWE then offered the gig to Mike Tyson, who has been confirmed to host that night.

Labels: the rock

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:10 PM | Permalink | Comments

Below is the official blurb from iNDEMAND for WWE’s Elimination Chamber pay-per-view:

4800 pounds of chain and 16 tons of steel engulf six Superstars and their quest for championship gold. Don’t miss Batista, John Cena, Triple H, Undertaker, Randy Orton and all your favorite Superstars at WWE Elimination Chamber, Sunday, February 21, 8pm ET / 5pm PT, live and only on Pay-Per-View. A World Wrestling Entertainment Production.

Labels: 2010 WWE Elmination Chamber

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:09 PM | Permalink | Comments

Prowrestling.net reports that the word in the TNA locker room today is that Jeff Hardy will wrestle in the Steel Cage Asylum match on tonight’s iMPACT for the X Division Title.

It is confirmed that Hardy has arrived at the iMPACT Zone today. It’s possible that people in the locker room are trying to swerve everyone but that is the word going around.

Labels: jeff hardy

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:07 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: FWOnline.com

-- Melina went to Syracuse on Wednesday and was on crutches backstage after suffering a torn ACL at Tuesday's RAW live show.

While not official, it is expected she will undergo surgery and drop the title to Maryse, who was was actually scheduled to win it soon anyway.

Labels: maryse, melina

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:31 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

- There is a story going around the WWE locker room about Sheamus, Ted DiBiase and Yoshi Tatsu, who were all three roommates at one time in Tampa, Florida.

The story goes that Sheamus played "big dog" in the apartment and pissed his roommates off because he allegedly would use their protein shakers and not clean them. Ted and Yoshi confronted him at the same time once. Sheamus got mad and threw Tatsu's shaker at him but Yoshi caught it. Sheamus then called out Tatsu but Yoshi ended up beating Sheamus pretty bad. Yoshi is said to be very good with his hands and has boxed and gone through the New Japan dojo.

When asked if the story was true, Tatsu would only say, "I just wanted to teach Sheamus a lesson in respect. Don't mess with other peoples stuff." There was hope within WWE that the story would make its way to Vince McMahon, who has always had the mindset that he doesn't want people to think one of his World Champions lost a real fight.

Labels: sheamus, Ted DiBiase Jr, Yoshi Tatsu

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:30 PM | Permalink | Comments

- Above is the official trailer for WWE's new John Morrison DVD titled Rock Star. The DVD set is scheduled to be released on February 20th.

Labels: john morrison

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:28 PM | Permalink | Comments

Partial source: PWTorch.com Newsletter

- Shane McMahon is officially gone from WWE as of yesterday, January 1st, 2010. McMahon announced his resignation from WWE back in October of last year.

According to WWE's latest SEC filings, Shane still owns 43,449 shares of stock in the company. A few weeks ago on December 17th, Shane cashed in 60,000 shares for $897,000 in gross proceeds. He also exercised his stock options to acquire 60,000 shares priced between $12.94 and $13.45 per share.

Labels: shane mcmahon

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:28 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: F4Wonline.com

- WWE officials have wanted Jeff Hardy to face CM Punk at this year's WrestleMania 26 pay-per-view from Arizona.

When Hardy left WWE last year, the impression was given that he would return for a match with Punk at WrestleMania. While nothing has been set in stone yet, WWE officials are hoping Hardy will return to start the build for the match.

One issue surrounding Hardy's return would be his pending criminal charges from his arrest last year and how it might affect Linda McMahon's political career.

Labels: c.m. punk, jeff hardy, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:27 PM | Permalink | Comments

James Roday and Dule Hill, the stars of USA Network's Psych show, will be hosting WWE's Monday Night RAW on January 25th from Columbus, Ohio.

The new season of Psych premieres on USA on January 27th and this season will feature a cameo by John Cena.

Labels: RAW

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:27 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Hart Dynasty was reportedly called to RAW, presumably to appear in an angle related to Bret Hart's return.

Labels: bret hart, the hart dynasty

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:25 PM | Permalink | Comments