World Wrestling Entertainment's next DVD release will be the Hart & Soul: Hart Family Anthology DVD set, which will be released this Tuesday 4/6 and feature the following:

DISC ONE

he Hart family has long served as Canada’s first family of Sports Entertainment, from patriarch Stu and his Stampede Wrestling and Dungeon, a training site that has produced multiple Hall of Famers, though sons Bret, Owen, on to a new generation of WWE Superstars, The Hart Dynasty. But the family’s journey was never a smooth one, as their accomplishments were often punctuated with devastating tragedies and loss. Now for the first time ever, fans can learn the entire story in Hart & Soul: The Hart Family Anthology. A brand new documentary chronicling more than 5 decades of family lineage is filled with never-before-seen Hart family interviews and supplemented with a dozen matches featuring Bret, Owen, Keith, Bruce, The British Bulldog, The Dynamite Kid, Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart, The Hart Dynasty, and more!

Stu Hart
Falling in Love
The Promoter
Hart House
Riches to Rags
All in the Family
Hart Foundation / British Bulldogs
Stampede Sold
Dean
International Spotlight
Family Feud
Canada’s Family
Struggles Within
Family Tragedy
Third Generation
Reflections

Special Features
• Stu the Athlete
• Helen’s Car Accident
• Terrible Ted the Wrestling Bear
• A Letter from Dean
• Stu vs. The Tiger
• A Hart Family Thanksgiving – 1987
• Helen Throws in the Towel
• Owen the Prankster
• Chris Jericho’s Flight with Owen
• The Uninvited Guest
• Bret “Hit Man” Hart Returns to WWE
• Post-Raw Celebration (Raw – January 4, 2010)

DISC TWO

Introduction with The Hart Dynasty

6-Man Tag Team Match
Keith Hart, Bruce Hart & Bret Hart vs. The Kiwis & Dynamite Kid
Stampede Wrestling – May 1979

Stampede Arrives in WWE

World Tag Team Championship Match
Hart Foundation vs. British Bulldogs
Boston Garden – November 1, 1986

An Unforgettable Match

Intercontinental Championship Match
Bret “Hit Man” Hart vs. British Bulldog
SummerSlam – August 29, 1992

The Hart Family in a WWE Ring

Family Feud Match
Bret “Hit Man” Hart, Owen Hart, Bruce Hart & Keith Hart vs. Shawn Michaels & His Knights
Survivor Series – November 24, 1993

Brothers vs. Brothers

Bret “Hit Man” Hart & Owen Hart vs. Rick Steiner & Scott Steiner
Florence, SC – January 11, 1994

Ripped Apart at the Seams

World Tag Team Championship Match
Bret “Hit Man” Hart & Owen Hart vs. The Quebecers
Royal Rumble – January 22, 1994

DISC THREE

Sibling Rivalry

Steel Cage Match for the WWE Championship
Bret “Hit Man” Hart vs. Owen Hart
SummerSlam – August 29, 1994

The Hart Family Settles It in the Ring

Bret “Hit Man” Hart & British Bulldog vs. Owen Hart & Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart
Raw – November 7, 1994

Decorated in Gold

European Championship Match
Owen Hart vs. British Bulldog
Raw – March 3, 1997

Front and Center

10-Man Tag Team Match
Bret “Hit Man” Hart, Owen Hart, British Bulldog, Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart & Brian Pillman vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin, Ken Shamrock, Goldust & Legion of Doom
In Your House: Canadian Stampede July 6, 1997

Border Wars

6-Man Tag Team Flag Match
Bret “Hit Man” Hart, Owen Hart & British Bulldog vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin, Undertaker & Dude Love
Raw – July 21, 1997

Passing the Torch

WWE Unified Tag Team Championship Match
The Hart Dynasty vs. D-Generation X
SmackDown – December 25, 2009

The Best is Yet to Come

Labels: bret hart, hart family

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

A lot of wrestlers posted their reactions to the Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels on their Twitter account. Here is what they had to say about the epic match:

Steve Austin: “a very good match between cena and batista!!! great finish!!. one of the greatest wrestlers i have ever seen rides off into the sunset after tonights match. hbk IS mr. wrestlemania. bottom line. two living legends and future hall of famers totally kicked ass tonight. a great story, great selling, a great match. proud of them both. two middle fingers straight up for Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker. matches like that are what professional wrestling is all about.great class showed by both men. 18-0. THAT IS INCREDIBLE. and hell-it is hard to fathom that hbk is leaving. he will be sorely missed.tipping a glass of wine to the main event at wrestlemania 26. two veterans show the young guns
how it is done at the grandest stage of all.”

Jeff Hardy: “Rey vs. Punk..tha match to beat! Taker&HBK alwayzImpress..goodJobDudes!!!”

Ted DiBiase Jr.: “WOW! Wrestlemania!! Speechless… Lost but what a life experience!! Taker and Shawn.. You guys are on a different planet than the rest of us. Shawn… All the respect in the world! Thank you so much!! You will be so missed!!”

Daniel Bryan: “Awed, amazed and inspired. Now THAT is a real mentor. Shawn and the Undertaker were incredible tonight.”

Jim Ross: “WM26 was an excellent, well produced event. Tuf seeing HBK go. So many memories. Thought last match told helluva story. Proud of both”

Lillian Garcia: “Wow, HBK was asking for Taker to end it! Incredible match! But can’t believe HBK’s career is over. :-( . Congrats taker on being 18-0!!! Very Impressive!! Thank u Shawn! U were indeed the showstopper!!!”

Labels: hbk, undertaker, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:04 PM | Permalink | Comments

Besides some promotional work for the Hart Family DVD and some appearances on the upcoming European tour as a special enforcer, Bret Hart right now has no other plans to work with WWE. This doesn’t mean that he won’t be appearing any more on TV as Bret is open to working more dates with WWE if something comes up.

Labels: bret hart

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

With the staggering amount of money WrestleMania brings to its host city each year, Variety.com reports that 14 cities are vying to host WWE’s showcase event over the next few years. WrestleMania brought over $50 million to the local economies of Orlando and Houston in 2008 and 2009 and around 60% of the fans who attended those shows traveled from other states to be there.

The article contains quotes from various city officials gushing about the significance of their cities hosting the big event. According to Variety, Miami, Los Angeles, New York City, Detroit, Toronto, Tampa, Vancouver, New Orleans, St. Louis, Jacksonville, Orlando and Houston are now in the running to host WrestleMania 28, 29 and 30. As reported earlier, Atlanta will host next year’s WrestleMania XXVII on April 3, 2011.

Labels: wrestlemania 27, wrestlemania 28

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:01 PM | Permalink | Comments

Jim Ross’ absence from WrestleMania was clearly one of the focal news points. He was acknowledged by Jerry Lawler at the Hall of Fame ceremony, receiving a tremendous pop from the crowd. According to a new report, the final decision to not use JR was Vince McMahon’s call. The subject of JR’s involvement has been brought up several times in the last few weeks leading in to WrestleMania.

Labels: jim ross

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:59 PM | Permalink | Comments

Following last night’s WrestleMania 26, it appears that Shawn Michaels really is retiring, or at least taking a long break.

The WWE public relations person in the media section last night was telling reporters that Shawn Michaels is indeed retiring. This was also the word going around backstage at the show. A long break is at least possible as Shawn was telling people goodbye last night.

Labels: shawn michaels, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:58 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE held a press conference on Sunday before WrestleMania 26 and RAW superstar Triple H had some very positive things to say about some of WWE’s rising young stars. IGN.com posted the following Triple H quote from the event:

“He’s (Sheamus’s) just a 24/7 ‘I want to get better’ kind of guy and that impresses me. There’s a few guys like that. You know, The Miz is a guy like that. Kofi Kingston’s like that. And to me that the exciting thing about the future for me in the WWE is guys like that, that have that passion,” Hunter said. “There’s a difference sometimes in personalities. It was a very cut-throat business a while ago and everybody was scheming to try and get their spot and you don’t see that now. But you can still see the passion in the guys. And Sheamus is a guy with a ton of it.”

Labels: triple h

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:58 PM | Permalink | Comments

During a radio interview this morning in California, reality TV star Tila Tequila was asked if she had anything coming up that everyone could look forward to.

She said, “I think we’re finalizing me hosting RAW the last week in May. I don’t watch much wrestling, but I like muscular guys in tights.”

Labels: RAW

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:57 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Hollywood Reporter notes that WWE Studios will be shooting movies back-to-back as part of a new strategy to save on filming costs. The movies shot under this new plan are John Cena’s Legendary, Big Show’s Knucklehead and Randy Orton’s Big Red.

WWE is planning on release nine movies over the next two and a half years with nearly back-to-back shoots for most of them. 2011 will see three feature WWE films released.

John Cena’s Legendary will get a limited two-week theatrical release in the US beginning in September. The DVD of the movie will be released two weeks later to take advantage of one single marketing campaign.

Labels: big show, john cena

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:56 PM | Permalink | Comments

A night that will long be remembered, WrestleMania XXVI is in the books from Phoenix. Being at the event live was a treat, and for the most part I felt the crowd was into it all night, except when they were not being treated to a solid match. Here are my thoughts from the live event:

Opener - WWE Unified Tag Team Title Match
The Miz & Big Show defeat John Morrison & R-Truth

A solid opener that was as expected, won by the champs. The match was pretty short, but also a good way to get the night rolling. As stated in the preview, I like the Miz, Show team, and think they should get to keep the belts for awhile.

Randy Orton defeats Cody Rhodes vs. Ted DiBiase

This match being second to me shows the somewhat lack of interest for this match, but it did what it was supposed to, which was push Orton more into a face than ever. The thought here is Orton continues his "cool heel/face" role, which I think the fans are now clearly on board with. As for Dibiase and Rhodes, they had a good first Mania match.

Money in the Bank Ladder Match

As usual, the MITB match had its share of high spots, and ladders used also was the key to a very well put together match. I wish just once Kane would be allowed to win a high profile match like this, but we all knew he wouldn't. Interesting push allowing Jack Swagger to win, and I wonder when he found out as I asked him at Axxess on Thursday if he was excited for Mania and he said he hadn't slept in three days. Hmmm...wonder if he knew something we didn't. Now the question is does he get to take advantage of the use of the briefcase.

Sheamus vs Triple H

No shock here at all as HHH comes away with a clean pin, but I have a sense we'll see this match a few more times with Sheamus getting his share of wins. They want to build Sheamus up, and this match did that, as he held his own against the Game. As for HHH, it will be interesting to see his future, and if he gets into the main event role again as he's been on the outside looking in for awhile, which is rare for Vince's son-in-law.

Rey Mysterio defeats CM Punk

Crowd to me sort of turned on this match, this despite to me Punk being maybe the best heel in the WWE right now. Mysterio did all his usual spots, and in the end got a clean win which was expected as this feud will continue well into 2010. As for Punk, I hope they don't screw around too much with his character, as it's been effective with the whole Straight Edge Society thing for the past few months.

Bret Hart vs Vince McMahon

I think I called this one right - pretty lame. I didn't expect much from the near 70-year old Vince, and Bret wasn't gonna do much either, and that's what we got. Someone behind me chanted "boring" during the match, and let's face it - it was. Bret's family getting their licks in was a cool added plus, and it was about the only compelling part of the match. Bret's gonna stick around for awhile, and let's hope it's all on the outside of the ring. This was exactly what it should have been, no need to drag it on.

World Heavyweight Title Match
Chris Jericho defeats Edge

Got the sense as we got closer that Jericho would win this, and I was right. Though with the end of the match spear though the tables, they kept Edge strong and this feud will keep going as 2010 continues. Again, some very good spots, but also kind of dragged. Not sure if keeping Edge a face for the rest of the year is a good thing or not, but for now he will eventually get the strap back, but this was a good move keeping it on Y2J for at least a few more nights.

10-Diva Tag Match
Vickie Guerrero, Alicia Fox, Michelle McCool, Layla and Maryse defeat Eve Torres, Kelly Kelly, Mickie James, Gail Kim and Beth Phoenix

So Vickie is the biggest women heel in the WWE, yet the booking had her basically getting a pop by doing a move dedicated to her late beloved husband? Only at Mania I guess. Other than that, this really made little sense to me, as the women just kept running in and doing their finishing moves on one another. Whatever, it was eye candy, and that's all the women matches at Mania ever are anymore. I'm sure new WWE Hall of Famer Wendi Richter rolled her eyes at this one.

WWE Title Match
John Cena defeats Batista

Strong match for the title, and no surprise that Cena is back on top. They booked this all along for Cena to win, but Batista gave him a strong match and I can see these two in a long feud through 2010. Batista heel is a great character, and the whole "in it for the money" thing fits him perfectly. The two kicking out of finishing moves gave me an Austin-Rock WM 15 flashback, and here's hoping they keep this feud going, as it deserves more than one rematch.

Career vs. Streak Match
The Undertaker defeats Shawn Michaels

We all knew it couldn't live up to WM 25, but I'll just say this - it came close. Add in the emotion of the crowd with the fact it was truly the main event, which was the correct booking, and you had another possible match of the year. No surprise that Taker won, and the ending with him seemingly showing Michaels remorse before the second tombstone was a classic moment that will be relived forever. This match shows that a Mania main event doesn't need to be a title match, and while Michaels is "gone," let's say for now I would love to see it one more time.

Labels: john cena, shawn michaels, undertaker, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:11 AM | Permalink | Comments

We've been in the desert since Wednesday night, and now it's time to give you some final predictions for the big show tonight:

The Streak vs. The Career
The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels

This should be the main event, but word is it won't. Michales has been talking about retiring for awhile, and the Taker streak is the one real thing left in the business. Taker wins an emotional match, better than last year.

No Holds Barred Match
Bret Hart vs. Vince McMahon

As much coverage as this match is getting, this is going to be a stinker. Hart is so limited, and Vinnie Mac is getting close to 70. With that, look for a brawl, some blood, and a Hart win in about 15 min.

WWE Championship Match
Batista (c) vs. John Cena

I love the build for this match, with Cena losing and getting beat up every week, but there's no doubt the fan favorite goes over here. Cena is the face of the company, the biggest since the Rock. Look for Cena to win, get the belt back in a good match that could be last, and have a long feud with the Animal.

World Championship Match
Chris Jericho (c) vs. Edge

A well booked match, and again, the fan favorite should go over here, but for some reason I can see them allowing Jericho to keep this belt a little longer. Edge will get the belt at some point, but I am not sure here. Jericho wins in an upset.

Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Kane, Kofi Kingston, Evan Bourne, MVP, Christian, Dolph Ziggler, Shelton Benjamin, Jack Swagger, Matt Hardy, Drew McIntyre

The latest rumor has Drew McIntyre going over, as he seems more and more on the fast track to the top. Christian is another choice many seem to favor, but again, this is a match for an up and coming guy, and I think today that is Drew McIntyre.

United Tag Team Championship Match
Big Show and The Miz (c) vs. John Morrison and R-Truth

Slated to be the opener, and I love the team of Show and Miz, and I look for them to go over here with a win. Morrison is rumored to be going heel sometime in 2010.

Triple H vs. Sheamus

Total filler match, and while Sheamus is an up and comer, they won't allow HHH to fall here. First real filler match for HHH at Mania since 17 in Houston vs the Undertaker.

Triple Threat Match
Randy Orton vs. Ted DiBiase vs. Cody Rhodes

I still don't see Orton as a fan favorite, and I think we could see a swerve here where in the end, Orton and Rhodes team up and beat DiBiase, pushing the son of the "Million Dollar Man" to be a face. Orton pins Ted, setting up the swerve.

Rey Mysterio vs. CM Punk

Love this match, and look for this feud to have a long run. Mysterio is slated to join the "Straight Edge" life if he loses, so I say he wins here to stay as is and then his family gets more involved as the feud goes.

10-Diva Tag Team Match
Mickie James, Kelly Kelly, Eve, Gail Kim and Beth Phoenix vs. Michelle McCool, Maryse, Layla, Alicia Fox and Vickie Guerrero

No shock they put all the ladies together for one match. With Vickie involved, look for her to get beat up, and the face ladies to get a win.

Labels: batista, bret hart, john cena, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:55 AM | Permalink | Comments

During a radio interview with KTAR 620 AM this morning, Jimmy Wang Yang was asked whether he would be wrestling at WrestleMania. He said he would be in a pre-show Battle Royal “with like 30 competitors.” No word yet on the format or specific talent involved.

Labels: wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:19 PM | Permalink | Comments

Bryan Alvarez of F4Wonline.com reports that WWE did contact Earl Hebner about being involved in the WrestleMania match between Bret Hart and Vince McMahon this weekend. Obviously Hebner is working for TNA and more than likely will not be working for WWE this weekend.

Labels: bret hart, vince mcmahon, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:18 PM | Permalink | Comments

In a chat on Fancast.com yesterday, Matt Hardy said he believes his brother Jeff will be back in WWE. Matt said: "It's one of those things. Jeff can't handle the schedule right now. I think it's not going to be a long-term thing. I think as soon as his body heals up and he gets it together, he'll be back in the WWE again."

Matt then said he would like to see TNA's Sting and AJ Styles in WWE. As far as Sunday's epic match between Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker goes, Matt predicts The Undertaker to win. Matt also said he would debut a bit of a new look with new pants and arm covers at Sunday's big show.

Labels: jeff hardy, matt hardy

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:17 PM | Permalink | Comments

Phoenixnewtimes.com has a new interview up with CM Punk, who is facing Rey Mysterio at tomorrow’s WrestleMania 26 pay-per-view. Here are a few highlights:

Are you looking forward to WrestleMania?

Oh yeah, very much so. I’m looking forward to stealing the show. And letting everybody know that that’s exactly what I plan to do.

Rey Mysterio is an extremely talented cat. Is he a good partner to work with in the ring?

Yeah, I think me and Rey have chemistry. I’ve known Rey for…geez, I’m an old man, almost 10 years now. We’ve wrestled a couple times, and we haven’t really been able to showcase exactly what it is we can do. We’ve barely scratched the surface.

Will it be better than the match you had against Rey and Eddie Guerrero on the indie circuit in 2002?

I don’t know if it will be better. That one def has a place in my heart, obviously because Eddie was involved. I think it’s a great match that still holds up today.

Labels: cm punk, rey mysterio, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments

As of today, there are still ringside seats and other great seats left for WrestleMania 26. It’s still early to judge numbers but some are saying that out-of-country travelers in Phoenix for WrestleMania this year aren’t as plenty as they have been in Orlando, Florida and Houston, Texas in recent years.

Labels: wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:14 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE officials were still going over the match order for tomorrow’s WrestleMania 26. Believe it or not, there has at least been talk this weekend of having Vince McMahon vs. Bret Hart as the last match. It was previously noted that John Cena vs. Batista was set to go on last but apparently they still haven’t decided.

Labels: batista, john cena, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:13 PM | Permalink | Comments

Labels: cm punk, rey mysterio

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:02 AM | Permalink | Comments

Labels: sheamus, triple h, wrestlemania 26

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

Labels: batista, john cena, wrestlemania 26

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

Labels: chris jericho, edge, wrestlemania 26

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

Labels: bret hart, vince mcmahon

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:58 PM | Permalink | Comments

Labels: shawn michaels, undertaker, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:57 PM | Permalink | Comments

Credit: F4WOnline.com

WWE officials are expecting this year’s Wrestlemania to be the most profitable pay-per-view in the company’s history.

This is the first Wrestlemania with an extra $5 added to the price tag in North America. There’s also no major celebrity appearance like Donald Trump or Floyd Mayweather that the WWE has to pay for. Additionally, the PPV is set to air in more markets than ever before.

While Wrestlemania 26 might not break the all-time WWE PPV buys record, many are expecting it to be the most profitable PPV.

Labels: wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:56 PM | Permalink | Comments

Credit: F4WOnline.com

– Drew McIntyre is booked for upcoming matches with Edge, so it appears that he is favorite to win the Money in the Bank ladder. Christian is considered a “dark horse” to win.

– Since WWE tends to alternate wins with their wrestlers, John Cena is the favorite to win at Wrestlemania since Batista won their match at Summerslam in 2008.

– The Undertaker is a favorite to win against Shawn Michaels, but the company could go in a different direction since they feel Undertaker winning is too predictable.

Labels: drew mcintye, edge, undertaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:55 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog at jrsbarbq.com. In this entry, Ross responds to a Twitter post made by former WWE & WCW Champion Bill Goldberg about negotiating with WWE and TNA “dropping the ball” on not signing him first. JR writes:

“Bill Goldberg reports that he is negotiating with WWE but my best guess is that it’s not about a return to the ring. Bill is a smart entrepreneur and the former Tulsa Edison and University of Georgia football star likely is looking at doing a marketing deal with WWE that might include video games, possible WWE HOF Induction next year in Atlanta, and merchandise sales.”

Despite the fact that Ross doesn’t believe Goldberg is negotiating to return to the ring on a full-time basis, he could see Goldberg getting back in the ring one more time if the right situation presented itself.

“After being involved in several of these type deals, I can see where both parties can benefit from an arrangement. Goldberg gets the opportunity to earn additional cash without putting his body through hell and he gets some nice exposure for his various TV vehicles. The WWE could monetize Goldberg’s likeness in a variety of ways. Is it possible for Goldberg to come back and perform in a ‘farewell bout’ in the Georgia Dome next year at WM27? It’s possible one has to assume.”

Labels: goldberg, jim ross

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:54 AM | Permalink | Comments

Former WWE and WCW Champion Bill Goldberg, who has not wrestled on the national wrestling scene since his infamous match with Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 20 back in 2004, has announced on Twitter that he’s in negotiations with World Wrestling Entertainment:

“YES.. I am in negotiations with the WWE,” Goldberg wrote. “Looks like ‘ole Hogan and TNA missed the boat. Shame for the fans they didn’t even try.”

Goldberg has stated repeatedly during interviews that he has no interest in getting back in the ring, but has had a change of heart and “the door is open again.”

“Truth is I never thought I’d even consider it…then came my son,” Goldberg said. “No one said I’d wrestle but the door is open again. Also…. If I ever did step in the ring again, I have a new tag partner. He goes by the name of “Lights Out!!!! the one and only Shawn Merriman…..updating the old Goldberg/Kevin Greene duo.”

Labels: goldberg

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

Labels: john cena, roddy piper, shawn michaels, undertaker, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:47 AM | Permalink | Comments

While WWE still had the Survivor Series listed on their 2010 pay-per-view calendar, a new Variety article on WWE pay-per-view business confirms that WWE will be "re-tooling" the concept this year because of "eroding sales."

Regarding the Survivor Series changes, a WWE spokesman said, "If something gets tired or old, it's something we have to look at. It's just like any entertainment property. It's crucial to continue to reinvent yourself. WWE fans will tell you right away if they like it or don't like it and if it's something they don't want, we don't do it again."

Labels: survivor series

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:15 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE has announced that actor and comedian Wayne Brady will host the Monday Night RAW on May 3rd from Jacksonville, Florida.

Brady is currently the host of Let's Make a Deal and has appeared on shows such as 30 Rock, How I Met Your Mother and others.

Labels: RAW

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:14 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE has added a final face-off between Batista and John Cena to tonight’s RAW with Pete Rose as guest host. As noted before, Sheamus & Legacy vs. Triple H & Randy Orton will also take place.

Labels: sheamus, triple h, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:13 PM | Permalink | Comments

Former WWE Diva Tammy “Sunny” Sytch told APP.com that she is writing a book on her pro wrestling career that she hopes will be out next year. “It’s going to be a fun book,” Tammy said. “I’m not out to trash anybody or ruin people’s marriages or expose who did what kind of steroid, it’s going to be a fun read. It’s all about all the fun stuff that happens on the road that nobody knows about unless you’re there.”

Labels: tammy stych

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:13 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE officially announced today that celebrity Bob Uecker will be inducted into the Hall of Fame this year by NBC exec Dick Ebersol.

Labels: 2010 WWE Hall of Fame, bob uecker

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:12 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE Title Match
John Cena vs. Batista

World Heavyweight Title Match
Edge vs. Chris Jericho

Career vs. Streak Match
Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker

No Holds Barred Match
Bret Hart vs. Vince McMahon

WWE Unified Tag Team Title Match
John Morrison & R-Truth vs. The Miz & Big Show

Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Dolph Ziggler vs. Kane vs. Christian vs. Shelton Benjamin vs. MVP vs. Jack Swagger vs. Matt Hardy vs. Evan Bourne vs. Drew McIntyre

Street Fight
CM Punk vs. Rey Mysterio
If Mysterio loses, he must join the Straight Edge Society.

Triple H vs. Sheamus

Randy Orton vs. Cody Rhodes vs. Ted DiBiase

Labels: john cena, wrestlemania 26

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

The plan right now is for Jim Ross, Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler to announce WrestleMania with Todd Grisham, Matt Striker and Josh Matthews doing backstage interviews and such.

Labels: jim ross, michael cole, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:48 AM | Permalink | Comments

WWE’s SummerSlam will be returning to Los Angeles this year. It was announced at last night’s tapings that tickets for this year’s show at the Staples Center go on sale this coming Saturday.

Labels: 2010 Summerslam

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:47 AM | Permalink | Comments

As of this week, the decision still hadn’t been made whether John Cena vs. Batista, Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels or Edge vs. Chris Jericho would be the last match at WrestleMania. The Unified Tag Team Title match is currently scheduled to open the show with Money in the Bank going on second. Vince McMahon vs. Bret Hart would likely go somewhere in the middle of the card. Of course, all of this is subject to change.

Labels: bret hart, undertaker, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:46 AM | Permalink | Comments

Jeff Hardy’s trial on four cases will begin today in the Superior Court of Moore County, North Carolina.

Hardy was arrested on September 11, of last year when police searched his home and found 262 Vicodin prescription pills, 180 soma prescription pills, 555 milliliters of anabolic steroids, a residual amount of powder cocaine and drug paraphernalia.

Jeff was indicted on January 4th, 2010. Hardy is currently facing five felonies in total, a misdemeanor charge and a conspiracy charge. Below are the charges related to his arrest.

* Felony drug trafficking
* Two counts of felony possession of a schedule III controlled substance or drugs.
* Misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia
* Conspiracy to traffic opium for trafficking four or more grams but less than fourteen grams of opium/heroin.

The conspiracy to traffic opium charge is a new charge that has recently been brought forth.

A 12-person jury will be seated in the court room to overhear the case, and when the DA and defense rest their case, the jury will determine whether Hardy is guilty or not guilty on each of the charges. If the jury finds Hardy guilty of any charges, another court date will be set for sentencing.

Labels: jeff hardy

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:44 AM | Permalink | Comments

In addition to updating his Q & A, JR has now returned with a blog update, and speaks more in-depth on the possibility of not returning to weekly WWE Television. Below are highlights:

JR on not returning to weekly Television: I do not perceive this development to likely not return to weekly TV broadcasting to be a negative one as a new schedule simply makes it easier on me travel wise and will hopefully help me keep lingering health issues in check. My goal is and has always been to help "the team" which means WWE as a whole. I've been fortunate to have had many years of positive experiences in several different, key areas where we have earned varying levels of success. I can still contribute in many of those areas or other platforms. Those plans are still being formulated but I am on board, in theory, and look forward to new responsibilities and challenges.

JR on attending WrestleMania 26: I have every intention of being at WM26 and if that is to simply spend time with my wife and friends and enjoy the weekend as a fan then I'm perfectly fine with that. For a life long, wrestling aficionado to be able to enjoy an event of this magnitude highlighted by so many historically significant wrestling matches sounds like a great weekend to me.

However, and perhaps egocentrically, I will say that if called upon to broadcast a match or two I intend on kicking some commentating ass. I'm just saying.

Labels: jim ross, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:01 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE Intercontinental Champion Drew McIntyre became the ninth participant for this year’s WrestleMania Money in the Bank match on tonight’s SmackDown after defeating local independent wrestler Aaron Bolo.

The line-up for Money in the Bank now looks like this: Evan Bourne, Christian, Kane, Matt Hardy, MVP, Shelton Benjamin, Jack Swagger, Dolph Ziggler and Drew McIntyre.

The tenth and final Money in the Bank participant will be determined on this week’s RAW. It’s believed that Kofi Kingston will earn the final spot.

Labels: kofi kingston, money in the bank

Posted by Matt Loede at 3:59 PM | Permalink | Comments

It looks like Bret Hart will be sticking around with WWE after WrestleMania. He is currently being advertised for the WWE tour of Germany after WrestleMania as a special enforcer in the main events of Edge vs. Chris Jericho for the World Heavyweight Title.

Labels: bret hart, edge

Posted by Matt Loede at 3:59 PM | Permalink | Comments

Major League Baseball great Bob Uecker will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this year. The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that WWE has wanted to induct Uecker for years but his broadcasting job with the Milwaukee Brewers has caused scheduling conflicts.

Uecker confirmed his induction to the paper. Uecker was the master of ceremonies for WrestleMania 3 and 4. It’s possible WWE will announce him when fellow MLB name Pete Rose hosts RAW on March 22nd.

Labels: 2010 WWE Hall of Fame, bob uecker

Posted by Matt Loede at 3:58 PM | Permalink | Comments

Here's the official preview for WWE's upcoming DVD on The Undertaker's greatest matches:

"He's the most ominous presence in the history of Sports Entertainment, known for his remarkable "WrestleMania" streak and taking the souls of scores of superstars. Now the Undertaker's most dangerous conflicts are collected in one 3-disc DVD set, "Undertaker's Deadliest Matches". This set includes "Casket Matches", "Buried Alive Matches", "Hell in a Cell", "Last Ride Matches", "Body Bag Matches", "Boiler Room Brawls", "Concrete Crypt Matches" and numerous other brutal bouts."

Labels: undertaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:54 AM | Permalink | Comments

There was an unconfirmed report that The Iron Sheik was arrested last week after behaving badly on a flight. Mike Aldren says that according to Sheik’s rep, he was not arrested. Jim Ross made mention about the incident on his website and Twitter last week.

JR wrote on his blog: “Small world….an old friend of mine was on a flight from Vegas to Atlanta this week and was seated on the same row, row 10, with a reportedly rowdy Iron Sheik. My friend, who is not in the wrestling biz, sent me a few text messages describing the scene which apparently was a little wild. It’s hard to believe that when I first met the Iron Sheik that he was quiet, weighed about 195 pounds or so, had hair, and was then a regular traveling partier with Danny Hodge.”

Ross later wrote the following on Twitter: “Friend called from Vegas airport boarding flt 2 Atl. It was loud & noisy. Reason: Iron Sheik was boarding! Maybe 2 many jabroni’s” and “My friend called me and Sheik got met by PO-leese @ ATL airport. Ouch, Daddy.”

Labels: iron shiek, jim ross

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:53 AM | Permalink | Comments

WWE showed a WrestleMania recall on RAW this week of Bill Goldberg pinning Brock Lesnar in 2004 as a way to plug Steve Austin’s guest host gig but the company has actually been talking about Goldberg and trying to get some kind of relationship going with him.

They realize he won’t come back and wrestle but they’re thinking of some kind of Legends deal to use his likeness in video games and such. Goldberg could also be possible for next year’s Hall of Fame in Atlanta since they’re running low on “main eventers” to induct.

Labels: goldberg

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:52 AM | Permalink | Comments

Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

The top matches advertised for the RAW tour after WrestleMania include Triple H & John Cena vs. Sheamus & Big Show as well as Christian vs. Randy Orton. Triple H vs. Orton and Cena vs. Sheamus is advertised in some cities. The top matches advertised for SmackDown events are Chris Jericho vs. Edge, Rey Mysterio & Kane vs. CM Punk & John Morrison, Edge vs. Mysterio vs. Punk and Kane vs. Drew McIntyre.

Labels: drew mcintye, kane, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:52 AM | Permalink | Comments

From: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Word is that no Hall of Fame announcement was made on RAW this week because of time restraints. It’s believed that WWE still has three names to announce, with one being Stu Hart. Stu’s announcement will likely be tied into the contract signing with Bret Hart, Vince McMahon and Steve Austin on RAW next week.

While it’s speculated that WWE and Warrior may have agreed to something recently, Warrior was not one of the names scheduled to be announced at last word. The only thing known about the remaining names is that “they are not names that would be expected.”

Labels: 2010 WWE Hall of Fame, bret hart, stu hart

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:50 AM | Permalink | Comments

Jim Ross is back with another new blog on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights:

- WWE's Gerald Brisco was in Iowa scouting the Division 3 college wrestling tourney this weekend. Smart, long term planning by WWE to look far and wide for future stars. As I wrote this week, if the independent wrestling scene becomes the primary source for the stars of tomorrow then the business is in trouble. Same theory applies for those brands who are trying to catch a quick fix using older stars as the thrust of their shows. Using bona fide legends to gather viewers to only see the younger guys featured is a viable concept but if the younger wrestlers aren't made to be perceived as special then success will be hard to achieve.

- I have to see a "wrestling war" to believe it but if that theory does come to fruition then I will be the first to admit mistakenly saying that no such "war" will happen. There is a huge difference in being owned by a media conglomerate such as WCW Monday Nitro being owned by Time Warner
and being owned by a private entity that is in the pro wrestling biz. Plus, Spike TV doesn't have the chops right now that TNT had back in the day of Monday Nitro. The lay of the TV landscape is totally different that it was in the mid to late 90's.

- We have many emailers that are curious to see what kind of match Bret Hart has at WM26 vs. Mr. McMahon. I am extremely anxious to see what I perceive will be Bret's last ever venture into the ring as a competitor. This is a big moment for this fan of the Hitman I can assure you. I don't expect to see any thing resembling a traditional wrestling match but I do expect this encounter to be one of the most dramatic and memorable moments on the PPV and will be a lasting memory of Wrestlemania. Not knowing what to expect makes the anticipation for this bout even better for me but for those who love to read the "spoilers" not knowing how this long awaited endeavor will go is driving some nuts.

Labels: bret hart, jim ross, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:26 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE announced this afternoon that The Undertaker will open tonight’s live RAW from Portland, Oregon. Taker will be responding to Shawn Michaels and furthering the storyline for their match at WrestleMania.

Labels: shawn michaels, undertaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:24 PM | Permalink | Comments

Jim Ross is back with another blog on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights:

- Apparently a long awaited DVD on the career of the great, WWE HOF’er Ricky ‘The Dragon’ Steamboat will be released in June. Being on a medical leave of sorts really is a bummer for many reasons not the least of which being not involved in projects such as this one. Ricky is one of my all time favorites and his matches with Ric Flair, among many others, are simply timeless classics. Their 1989 NWA Title Bout in Chicago that I had the privilege of calling is one of my favorite nights on the job.

- Yes, there are some good teams still competing today but not the number of outstanding teams like there was in previous generations. While many may point to the fact that some decision makers are not ‘tag team people,’ I look at the overall lack of quality depth in the business as a culprit as well. More talents that can get it done on a high level in the ring will equate to more teams being created. Personally, I am a fan of quality, tag team wrestling.

- Recent video packages on new wrestlers that have aired on TV in the past couple of weeks have been well done. I can recall when Bill Watts aired 4-6 weeks of well produced vignettes of the Rock ‘n Roll Express, I think that Jerry Lawler produced these vignettes, before Morton and Gibson made their debut in Mid South Wrestling and by the time that R ‘n R physically arrived they were stars. Point being is that systematic and well planned video introductions help any talent, no matter their skill level, to better connect with the audience.

Labels: jim ross, ricky steamboat

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

AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck” from the Iron Man 2 soundtrack will be one of the theme songs for this year’s WrestleMania along with Kevin Rudolf’s “I Made It (Cash Money Heroes)” featuring Lil Wayne, Birdman and Jay Sean.

Labels: wrestlemania 26

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

WWE has began working on a new DVD set for Ricky Steamboat. It will be a three-disc set officially released on June 29th.

Labels: Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:29 AM | Permalink | Comments

WWE has signed OVW wrestler Asher Knight to a developmental deal. Knight was in the news last year as WWE’s John Laurinaitis asked him to change his hairstyle before signing. Knight debuted at Thursday night’s FCW show under the name Adam Atherton, losing a match to Titus O’Neal.

Labels: John Laurinaitis

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:29 AM | Permalink | Comments

The Divas will likely be represented at WrestleMania this year in a tag match or multi-Diva match rather than a title match, largely as a way to get as many of them on the show for the WrestleMania payday.

Labels: wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:41 PM | Permalink | Comments

Here are a few highlights from Jim Ross’ latest blog on jrsbarbq.com, talking about last night’s RAW:

- It was great seeing so many of my friends from the WWE world Monday at the Ford Center. It is always good to catch up with long time acquaintances and how they and their families are doing. If I was asked once, I was asked a 100 times, ‘When are you coming back?’ I don’t have the exact answer to that question but my standard and honest response remains the same and that is that my goal is and always has been to return to WWE at Wrestlemania 26. If all the necessary arrangements can be made from a business perspective then that goal will hopefully become a reality.

- Bret Hart and I had a long conversation Monday of which I enjoyed immensely. Bret is one of the all time greats, a WWE HOF’er, and has battled thru amazing adversity in overcoming a serious stroke to get to where he is today. Bret, as we discussed, will never be ‘100%’ but his heart and spirit are strong and he will no doubt do all he physically and mentally can to provide the fans their monies worth at WM26 versus Mr. McMahon. I personally can’t wait to see this attraction. Bret and I even talked casually about doing some appearances together, perhaps even some Q&A’s.

Labels: bret hart, jim ross

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:40 PM | Permalink | Comments

Bret Hart vs. Vince McMahon has officially been announced. Here is the updated WrestleMania 26 card:

World Heavyweight Title Match
Edge vs. Chris Jericho

WWE Title Match
John Cena vs. Batista

Grudge Match
Bret Hart vs. Vince McMahon

Career vs. Streak Match
Shawn Michaels vs. Undertaker

Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Christian vs. Kane vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Shelton Benjamin vs. Jack Swagger vs. MVP vs. 2 Others

Labels: bret hart, vince mcmahon, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:38 PM | Permalink | Comments