Below is the latest with Jim Ross, who earlier Friday night put up about his status with the WWE:

There is rampant speculation on the internet about my future. This is understandable as I've talked a great deal about it here on my blogs. Plus, it's provided various wrestling sites, etc with some nice cannon fodder over the past few weeks.

This matter is much more simple than many perceive. My WWE 'talent contract' has ended after a 17+ year run with the company. However, I am still a WWE employee handling the same talent relations functions that I have executed for the company for the past few years including since moving to Oklahoma. I simply do not have a 'talent contract' as WWE has no plans to utilize me as an on air talent at this time.

The WWE engaged in talks with me on Thursday of this week to discuss a new job description that would include what I am now doing along with other talent relations oriented matters. I am considering this offer and I trust that a decision will be made soon regarding this opportunity.

In the meantime, I am still interested in a variety of projects and opportunities.

While some may feel that it is in their best interest that I not remain in broadcasting, I do not share in that belief at this time.

Labels: jim ross

Posted by Matt Loede at 8:52 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE has completed the Supplemental Draft this afternoon to complete the 2010 WWE Draft after last night's WWE Raw Draft show. The following is a break down of the Draft Pick.s today.

Raw Draft Picks

(1) Great Khali & Ranjin Singh
(4) Natalya
(6) Ezekiel Jackson
(7) Goldust
(9a) JTG - WWE erases the Draft Pick and JTG remains on Smackdown.
(10) Unified tag champions Hart Dynasty (Tyson Kidd & D.H. Smith)


Smackdown Draft Picks

(2) Chavo Guerrero
(3) Cody Rhodes
(5) Chris Masters
(8) Hornswoggle
(9b) Rosa Mendes
(11) MVP

Order of Picks

(1) Great Khali & Ranjin Singh to Raw (12:01 p.m.)
(2) Chavo Guerrero to SD (12:15 p.m.)
(3) Cody Rhodes to SD (12:27 p.m.)
(4) Natalya to Raw (12:45 p.m.)
(5) Chris Masters to SD (1:00 p.m.)
(6) Ezekiel Jackson to Raw (1:15 p.m.)
(7) Goldust to Raw (1:30 p.m.)
(8) Hornswoggle to SD (1:45 p.m.)
(9a) JTG to Raw (2:00 p.m.) JTG remains on Smackdown
(9b) Rosa Mendes to SD (2:20 p.m.)
(10) Hart Dynasty (Tyson Kidd & D.H. Smith) to Raw (2:40 p.m.)
(11) MVP to Smackdown (3:00 p.m.)

Labels: chavo guerrero, hornswoggle, MVP

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:48 AM | Permalink | Comments

One day before his WWE contract expires, WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has a new blog on jrsbarbq.com with the latest update on his WWE standing.

"I've had a couple of conversations with WWE officials this week about a potential new assignment within the company. Nothing has been finalized as of yet and my existing talent agreement will end Friday without fanfare," Ross said. "I will continue to handle some administrative matters until an agreement is or isn't reached."

In the meantime, Ross published a heavy amount of notes on how he would present TV wrestling in this era. It's an interesting look into what he would change or enhance if he were given the handle on a TV product.

Among the items Ross identified, with some application to TNA: finding the next batch of stars, scouting for talent, even-steven booking getting no one over, 2/3 falls matches, competently stretching out storylines over a five-week period, introducing new talent with video packages beforehand, "active performers who occupy significant TV time that are in a major decision making capacity inside a wrestling company," and more.

Labels: jim ross

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:46 AM | Permalink | Comments

Source: PWInsider.com

Triple H will be starring in another WWE Studios film that begins filming this June in New Orleans. The Chaperone will be a comedy movie that tells the story of an ex-convict who ends up chaperoning his daughter’s school field trip.

Labels: triple h

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:19 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE held their annual draft on RAW and a few superstars found new homes. Here are the roster changes from tonight’s WWE Draft. More roster changes will take place this Wednesday during the Supplemental Draft.

* Kelly Kelly goes from RAW to SmackDown

* Big Show goes from RAW to SmackDown

* John Morrison goes from SmackDown to RAW

* R-Truth goes from SmackDown to RAW

* Edge goes from SmackDown to RAW

* Kofi Kingston goes from RAW to SmackDown

* Christian goes from RAW to SmackDown

* Chris Jericho goes from SmackDown to RAW

Labels: big show, chris jericho, john morrison, r-truth

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:18 PM | Permalink | Comments

Curt Hawkins who has not been on WWE television for some has been removed from the Smackdown roster page today. Other changes include Tyler Reks and Vance Archer moving to the Smackdown Roster.

Abraham Washington, Tony Atlas and announcer Byron Saxton being removed completely.

Labels: abraham washington, curt hawkins

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:17 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: Wrestling Observer

This week's issue of the Wrestling Observer reports that Mickie James was moved to SmackDown this past fall because she'd didn't professionally handle breaking up a relationship from a top WWE star, thus resulting in company officials separating the two on different brands. For those curious, the wrestler in question is John Cena, who James knew full well is a married man.

Reportedly, James had become too much of a nuisance backstage at WWE events and some people in power wanted her "out of their hair."

Also note, this is not the first time in which a top WWE star involved in relationship has denied her advances as she tried hooking up with Randy Orton when she was just starting out on the main roster several years ago. Orton, who was engaged to be married, turned her down.

Labels: john cena, mickie james

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:15 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter


- Batista and Rey Mysterio are the most talked about within WWE right now as far as "problems" go.

Batista is upset because WWE removed him from the movie due to uncertainty about his future with the company. Mysterio, who has a long time left on his contract, is apparently making a fuss again about money.

WWE has been trying to make a new Mexican star in case something happens with Mysterio and he leaves the company. WWE realizes that Mexico is it's hottest market right now. Dos Caras, even though he has been working as a heel, was brought on the road with WWE because there is a directive that the company wants a new Mexican star rolling as quickly as possible.

Labels: batista, Rey Mysterio Jr.

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:14 PM | Permalink | Comments

- Edge has also been rumoured to be traded to RAW

- The Hart Dynasty has been rumoured to be traded to RAW so they can be with Bret Hart

- Randy Orton has been rumoured to go to Smackdown to continue his feud with Jack Swagger

- Ted DiBiase will probably stay on RAW to start up a faction called 'The Fortunate Sons'. He will be joined by his brothers.

Labels: edge, randy orton, Ted DiBiase Jr

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:18 PM | Permalink | Comments

It is believed that tonight we saw the last of Triple H for a while when he was carried out on a stretcher. He is going off to heel injuries and film WWE's new movie Killing Karma.

Labels: triple h

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:17 PM | Permalink | Comments

Joey Mercury made his WWE storyline return tonight at the Extreme Rules pay-per-view during the CM Punk vs. Rey Mysterio match after Serena and Luke Gallows were ejected from ringside. Mercury, sporting a Straight Edge Society hoodie, came from under the ring and slid CM Punk a chair then dropped Mysterio on his face from the apron to the floor, allowing CM Punk to get the win. Mercury went back under the ring.

Labels: c.m. punk, Joey Mercury, Rey Mysterio Jr.

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:16 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: PWInsider.com

The word within the WWE locker room in Baltimore, which plays host to tonight’s WWE Extreme Rules PPV, is that Batista will be finishing up with the company this week. Batista is set to challenge John Cena tonight in a last man standing match for the Championship.

Batista made headlines dating back to this past January when he made it known he was ready to retire within the year, after being burnt out and his aspirations to become a movie star. A majority of the WWE crew arrived early this weekend in Baltimore for the PPV and those within the backstage area believe Batista’s career in the WWE will come to an end shortly following the Extreme Rules PPV.

While this all remains speculation, there is great belief that Batista will indeed retire from the Pro Wrestling ring. Stay tuned as we continue to gather information.

Labels: 2010 extreme rules, batista, john cena

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:44 PM | Permalink | Comments

Jim Ross is back with another blog, via jrsbarbq.com. JR discusses why he chose not to respond to the recent releases from WWE, in addition to his thoughts on Mark Henry’s reported arrest during WWE’s tour in Belfast. Below are highlights:

- I did not answer any emails on recent WWE releases because I do not know the reasons why other than perhaps the decision makers felt it was time to make changes and that creative opportunities for the released talents had come and gone. Perhaps there were other issues that we are not privy to. Nonetheless it isn’t the end of the world for any of the released talents and they simply need to regroup, reinvent, refocus, and get back in the game if that is their desire. Taking a few months off as in the 90 non compete clauses they likely have isn’t a bad thing. Bottom line, if these talents want to stay relevant in the pro wrestling biz I’m sure that they will be able to do so.

- Another emailed subject that I did not address in detail is the alleged ‘incident’ that involved Mark Henry in Belfast with a fan. I wasn’t there. I heard one side of the story of which there are always two. I like Mark Henry, even if he is a Texas Longhorn fan (that’s a joke), and feel that this matter may have simply perhaps been a ‘rib’ gone awry involving some very tired, frustrated travelers. Think of it this way, if Mark Henry had really wanted to assault a fan who could have truly restrained Mark? Mark Henry isn’t a dumb guy nor is he going to put himself and WWE in a position to where Mark is arrested and detained in a foreign country. Not withstanding the fact that Henry would likely be sued for all he has by the offended party. Again, I wasn’t there but I know that under normal circumstances that Mark Henry is a good natured man of character who I have known for years since we signed him in around 1995 or 96.

Labels: jim ross, mark henry

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:42 PM | Permalink | Comments

Not much is known about the format of the Extreme Makeover Match for the WWE Women’s Title between Michelle McCool and Beth Phoenix at tonight’s Extreme Rules pay-per-view. WWE is calling an “unique confrontation” with “unexpected twists and turns.” When hyping the match, WWE says both Divas will encounter some “unexpected challenges.”

Labels: 2010 extreme rules, beth phoenix, michelle mccool

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:41 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: F4Wonline.com

- WWE filmed a commercial yesterday that will air on SyFy this Summer to start hyping the network debut of Friday Night SmackDown in October.

A few of the names appearing in the commercial included Cody Rhodes, World Heavyweight Champion Jack Swagger, Kofi Kingston and Rey Mysterio.

Kofi and Rhodes are currently on the RAW brand so it looks like they might get drafted tomorrow night. This could also mean that Swagger and Mysterio will be staying on SmackDown.

These commercials were put together yesterday but WWE has filmed commercials to hype Superstars before, such as Evan Bourne with the ECW Title last year, then changed the plans and shot new material.

Labels: 2010 WWE Draft, jack swagger, kofi kingston

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:40 PM | Permalink | Comments

Regarding Batista being done with WWE, it is not definite that his last match for now will be at tonight’s Extreme Rules pay-per-view but he is expected to leave very soon. Right now WWE has no plans for him this Summer or for the SummerSlam pay-per-view.

Labels: batista

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:39 PM | Permalink | Comments

Last Man Standing Match for the WWE Title
Batista vs. John Cena

Extreme Rules Match for the World Heavyweight Title
Randy Orton vs. Jack Swagger

CM Punk’s Hair on the Line
Rey Mysterio vs. CM Punk

Street Fight
Sheamus vs. Triple H

Steel Cage Match
Edge vs. Chris Jericho

Extreme Makeover Match for the Women’s Title
Beth Phoenix vs. Michelle McCool

Strap Match
Shad Gaspard vs. JTG

Labels: 2010 extreme rules, chris jericho, edge, john cena

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:38 PM | Permalink | Comments

Mickie James posted the following message on Twitter regarding her release from WWE this afternoon:

Thank you James Gang! I just want to say its been a beautiful journey... Wwe has been a childhood dream come true & I have loved every step... There is not a moment I would change for the world... It breaks my heart but the world doesn't stop turning.. I'm grateful for all my friends, family, loved ones, and fans who have supported me along this wonderful ride. To all the guys and gals I've had the pleasure of sharing the ring with... We made some magic! History... Memories to last a lifetime... Thank you... I love you all with all my heart! Every chapter has its close... The next one Is only gonna get better... I promise you that! =) One truly never knows what tomorrow may hold... That's why we embrace every moment... In love & joy! The James Gang Rides! Even stronger than before.... To Victory! Haha.... On ward & upward! Much Love.... Muah! JG4L...... MJ

Labels: mickie james

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:27 PM | Permalink | Comments

A story on F4WOnline.com claims that WWE Diva Mickie James was released, in part, due to problems on the recent European tour.

According to the report, James was late for the bus on multiple occasions, and her tardiness held transportation up each time. That issue was considered the straw that broke the camel's back for Mickie, on whom management had soured in recent months.

The James release had been expected going back several months (with rumors stemming from the 'demotion' to SmackDown! and the Piggy James angle; both, in part, were traced to management's unfavorable view of her standing), and it now finally has come to fruition.

Labels: mickie james

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:27 PM | Permalink | Comments

Ted DiBiase is expected to make his return to the RAW brand this Monday, which is the three hour special edition of the 2010 Draft. The new heel group, The Fortunate Sons, which include the DiBiase brothers and Joe Hennig is expected to take form some time in May.

Labels: Ted DiBiase Jr

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:23 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

There is a great deal of discussion within the locker room of doing a week where the SmackDown crew does RAW, and the RAW crew does SmackDown. The idea originally was brought forth when the RAW crew suffered numerous delays on the UK. Had they made their return to the US on Tuesday, the RAW crew would have worked this week’s SmackDown.

Talks of the idea lead to creative possibly having the RAW and SmackDown crew’s switching it up in the Summer time, and again in the Fall, with another switch up in the final week prior to the Bragging Rights PPV.

Labels: RAW, smackdown

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:22 PM | Permalink | Comments

The WWE today dumped a couple big name stars, including diva Mickie James and "The Gold Standard" Shelton Benjamin:

WWE has come to terms on the release of WWE Divas Mickie James and Katie Lea Burchill as well as Superstars Shelton Benjamin, Kung Fu Naki, Slam Master J and Jimmy Wang Yang as of today, April 22, 2010. We wish them the best in all future endeavors.

Labels: katie lea, mickie james, shelton benjamin

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:20 PM | Permalink | Comments

The WWE has just announced the release of Mike Knox:

WWE has come to terms on the release of Mike Knox as of today, April 22, 2010. We wish him the best in all future endeavors.

Labels: mike knox

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:18 PM | Permalink | Comments

Jim Ross has a new blog
on jrsbarbq.com talking about tonight's RAW and the issues surrounding it. Here's part of what he wrote:

- I am anxiously awaiting Monday Night Raw because it appears that the Raw crew will be unable to make it to New Jersey in time for the event if the Weather Channel is accurate in their report that air space throughout Europe is still closed. One would assume that means nothing is landing and certainly nothing is taking off until weather conditions improve. The good news is that the Smackdown crew arrived in Newark late Saturday night around 2 a.m. Eastern time so there will be plenty of available bodies to produce an entertaining, 2 hour TV show.

In essence, Monday Night Raw will take on a different feel for one night which isn't a crime.

My view on these calamities is that they are simply opportunities for talents to step up and turn head's and the Smackdown nucleus has plenty of issues established to help WWE roll into their next PPV which is Extreme Rules in Baltimore.

Labels: jim ross, RAW

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:43 PM | Permalink | Comments

Tonight's WWE RAW from East Rutherford, New Jersey is expected to feature mostly SmackDown superstars. Most of the RAW crew is stuck in Europe due to travel restrictions stemming from last week's Iceland volcano eruption.

The superstars stuck in Europe includes John Cena, Batista, Randy Orton, Bret Hart, Miz, Big Show Sheamus, Mark Henry, Ted DiBiase, Kofi KingstonEvan Bourne, MVP, Chris Masters, Chavo Guerrero and Hornswoggle.

Eve Torres, Maryse and Kelly Kelly are among the Divas who also likely won't be at RAW tonight.

Labels: batista, big show, john cena, sheamus

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:42 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE.com has made it official that Smackdown is "invading" RAW tonight due to the travel restrictions in Europe:

"With the volcanic eruption in Europe stranding the majority of the Raw roster, WWE's flagship show is going blue. Even as the cast of the film MacGruber takes the reins as special guest hosts for the potentially cataclysmic show in East Rutherford, N.J., Triple H prepares to share the ring with several top Smackdown Superstars."

Although Raw is trapped in Belfast, Ireland, the SmackDown Superstars were able to arrive in Newark by charter early this morning, after traveling through the night by bus to get to a place where they could take off.

Can the cast of MacGruber control the molten-hot situation that could erupt on Raw? Find out tonight at 9/ 8 CT only on USA Network."

Labels: RAW, smackdown, triple h

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:41 PM | Permalink | Comments

PW Insider reports that RAW could have some issues for Monday night in Ireland:

The Irish Times is reporting that "The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has extended the closure of Irish airspace until 1pm tomorrow due to the deterioration in conditions caused by ash from an Icelandic volcano." They will reevaluate the situation again tomorrow.

The Raw roster is currently in Belfast, Northern Ireland for tonight's show in the city. As mentioned earlier WWE plans on booking a chartered plane to get the talent to New Jersey for Monday's Raw. With the volcanic ash getting worse, who knows if they will be able to make it or not.

It would probably be a good idea to tell all of the fans that come to today's show that if they can't get out tomorrow that they should come on back to the building on Monday for a Raw taping (as long as the building is not in use otherwise).

Labels: RAW

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:37 PM | Permalink | Comments

It has been well-documented that WWE is trying to secure MySpace and VH1 sensation Tila Tequila as a guest host for a May edition of WWE RAW. Tequila is far from the most interesting name on WWE's shortlist, however, as the company is reportedly looking to book Tiger Woods for the June 7 edition of RAW in Miami. As with the Conan O'Brien interest, few believe this will actually pan out (Source: F4WOnline.com).

Labels: tila tequila

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

Jim Ross has updated his blog and commented Brock Lesnar possibly returning to WWE as well as former WWE Diva Maria's new music CD. Visit JRsBarBQ.com to read the blog in its entirety and to check out JR's great line of BBQ products. Here's what JR said about:

Brock Lesnar Hosting RAW: "Intriguing statement made by Brock Lesnar regarding WWE earlier this week. I don't think that anyone should expect Lesnar to competitively step back in a WWE ring while he is still competing in UFC and if did it would surprise me. I can see Lesnar easily pulling off a Guest Host shot on Raw around the time that Brock's book comes out which I assume is later in 2010. After Brock calls it a career in UFC, which I also don't see for a while, it's within the realm of possibility that he could do a 'one off' bout in WWE likely at a Wrestlemania. This is not likely, in my opinion, for a few years so let's not start the dialog about Atlanta and who Lesnar 'might' wrestle in the Georgia Dome. That's just not going to happen in my eyes."

Maria's New Music CD: "A friend told me recently that former WWE Diva Maria's new CD was excellent and that Maria was so dedicated to her music career that she financed the project herself. I admire that dedication and encourage all fans to check out Maria's work which, I think, is available on ITunes. Maria is a wonderful spirit and I really enjoy her work on 'Celebrity Apprentice.' Any one who can spend time with Donald Trump comes out the better for it. I have always found Donald to be a helluva guy with amazing perception and vision and it's obvious that he's a brilliant man. One terrific marketer and promoter."

Labels: brock lesner, jim ross, maria

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:43 PM | Permalink | Comments

Jim Ross not being used at WrestleMania this year is still a hot topic of discussion within WWE. Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker both reportedly requested that Ross call their main event match this year.

Labels: jim ross, shawn michaels, undertaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:43 PM | Permalink | Comments

The PWTorch Newsletter reports that WWE will not be having a celebrity guest host for the three-hour April 26 edition of RAW, which will feature the WWE roster draft. WWE isn’t planning to announce a host for the show in order to keep the focus on the draft itself. This will be the first episode of RAW not to feature a guest host since the concept began back in June 2009.

Following the draft and throughout the summer, WWE will likely continue working with movie studios to feature more guest hosts promoting summer movies.

With movie studios trying to market action and comedy movies to the target audience of males 18-49, it’s safe to assume the RAW guest-hosting concept will continue for a while.

Labels: 2010 WWE Draft

Posted by Matt Loede at 11:42 PM | Permalink | Comments

Here’s the official announcement from WWE regarding SmackDown’s move to SyFy:

SMACKDOWN GOES SYFY

World Wrestling Entertainment(R) and Syfy announced today a multi-year agreement that brings Friday Night SmackDown(R) to the “Imagine Greater” network beginning in October 2010. Friday Night SmackDown will premiere on its new home October 1st at 8:00 PM ET. The program, which debuted more than 10 years ago, is one of the longest-running, weekly episodic shows on television.

Syfy’s original Friday night drama series will move to Tuesday night, where hit series such as Warehouse 13 and Eureka have yielded unprecedented ratings success. WWE NXT(TM) will leave Syfy in October as Friday Night SmackDown joins the schedule.

“WWE(R) is the ultimate in imagination-based sports entertainment. The fantastical thrills of Friday Night SmackDown provide an ideal addition to the Syfy slate, as it targets the younger male and female demographics, which are the fastest growing categories for WWE,” said Dave Howe, President, Syfy. “With Tuesday night, a proven winner for our original drama series including Warehouse 13, there is bigger opportunity for series such as Stargate Universe, Sanctuary and Caprica to thrive on a night with a significantly larger number of viewers available to watch live.”

“Syfy is a terrific partner and we look forward to bringing our proven ratings winner and ten year television institution, Friday Night SmackDown, to the network,” said WWE Chairman and CEO Vince McMahon. “With this move, WWE is thrilled to be expanding its long-standing relationship with the NBC Universal family.”

Friday Night SmackDown averages more than 3.4 million viewers a week and is currently the most watched TV program on Friday nights among Males under 55 and beats all Friday primetime programming on ABC, NBC, FOX and CW among Men 18-34*. The two hour television program will be presented weekly on Syfy and features a star-studded cast of WWE Superstars and Divas including Undertaker(R), Edge(R), Rey Mysterio(R), Chris Jericho(R), CM Punk(R), Michelle McCool(R), Beth Phoenix(TM) and Layla(TM).

Labels: beth phoenix, michelle mccool, smackdown

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:45 PM | Permalink | Comments

Rey Mysterio and John Morrison are among the WWE stars who are banged up from the European tour. Mysterio needed help leaving the arena after the SmackDown tapings last night and his dark main event with CM Punk.

Labels: cm punk, john morrison, rey mysterio

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:44 PM | Permalink | Comments

It is confirmed that WWE developmental Diva and backstage ECW interviewer Courtney Taylor has been released from WWE.

Labels: courtney taylor

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:43 PM | Permalink | Comments

Here’s the updated card for WWE’s Extreme Rules pay-per-view:

Last Man Standing Match for the WWE Title
Batista vs. John Cena

Extreme Rules Match for the World Heavyweight Title
Randy Orton vs. Jack Swagger

CM Punk’s Hair on the Line
Rey Mysterio vs. CM Punk

Street Fight
Sheamus vs. Triple H

Labels: 2010 extreme rules, rey mysterio, sheamus, triple h

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:42 PM | Permalink | Comments

Celebrate the Superstars of WrestleMania XXVI with a commemorative t-shirt! T-shirts available for John Cena, Chris Jericho and The Undertaker.



Get your official WrestleMania XXVI gear now!

Posted by Matt Loede at 4:05 PM | Permalink | Comments

As noted before, Lance Cade was released by WWE again this past week after being re-hired late last year. Cade asked to go to rehab shortly after being re-hired and soon after he got out of rehab, they released him again.

Cade said that he was contacted by Michael Hayes last August and told he had a spot on SmackDown as a top heel against Undertaker, in a new interview with PWInsider.com. Cade was re-hired in October. Instead of going to the main roster, the feud with Undertaker was nixed and he went to FCW for a bit. Cade says John Laurinaitis called him in December saying they were going to bring him to the main roster, likely on ECW. Cade was having problems going through painkiller withdrawals which led to an addiction to sleeping pills. He called officials and asked to be put in rehab.

Cade finished rehab and says in early March, Shawn Michaels told him he was done and would never be used as a top guy. This past week he was released. Cade is upset that most guys let their problems get even worse for fear or “losing their spot” and when he tried to get help for his problems, he was fired.

Labels: lance cade, shawn michaels, undertaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:57 PM | Permalink | Comments

Because WWE in general wasn’t happy with this year’s Hall of Fame ceremony, they have been working on next year’s event in advance. Names currently being discussed include Bill Goldberg, Ron Simmons, Lex Luger and The Steiner Brothers. Sting is also being talked about but his status with TNA will always play a factor, obviously.

While it probably will never happen, two people in the company brought up Ted Turner’s name this past week. It’s said that Goldberg and Simmons are likely a lock for next year’s class.

Labels: 2011 WWE Hall of Fame, goldberg, sting

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:55 PM | Permalink | Comments

Cody Rhodes made his first appearance last night in Vienna, teaming with Ted DiBiase to lose to Evan Bourne and Kofi Kingston. Cody and Ted cut promos on each other before the match.

Labels: cody rhodes, Ted DiBiase Jr

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:55 PM | Permalink | Comments

In an interview with the MondayNightMayhem radio show, WWE Hall of Famer Ted DiBiase had some harsh words for former co-worker The Ultimate Warrior, who was in talks with WWE about being part of this year’s Hall of Fame class.

DiBiase says he’s glad Warrior was not inducted into the Hall of Fame this year over WrestleMania weekend. “I’m glad he wasn’t there. I’m glad he wasn’t there because he’s somebody I don’t particularly care for, and quite frankly, he was somebody who got a big push, DiBiase said. “He’s one of those guys that has never really appreciated what was done for him, and all you have to do is watch the DVD. There’s a lot of guys that did well in the industry that may have been lacking in some areas.”

DiBiase worked with the Ultimate Warrior during Warrior’s run at the top of the World Wrestling Federation, but say the only time the man from Parts Unknown would have a good match is if his opponent carried him the whole way.

“Here’s a guy who the only reason he ever had a great match, every great match he had was directly depended upon who he was wrestling. And if the guy across the ring from him couldn’t lead him around by the nose, he couldn’t have a good match. So the fact that he wasn’t called on doesn’t bother me at all. I thought that since he lived out in that area, I thought that could have happened, and quite honestly, it would have been a very tense backstage environment if he and I were together. He’s one of those guys who has been given so much in terms of an opportunity in our industry, who even to this day doesn’t appreciate it, and I don’t know for the life of me who he thinks he is.”

Labels: Ted DiBiase, ultimate warrior

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:52 PM | Permalink | Comments

Above is the new promotional poster and synopsis for WWE’s Over the Limit pay-per-view. Over the Limit takes place on May 23rd from the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Michigan.

Anything can happen when WWE Superstars are pushed over the limit! Don’t miss Edge, John Cena, Triple H, Undertaker, Randy Orton, Shawn Michaels, Rey Mysterio, and all your favorite Superstars in “WWE: Over the Limit”, on Sunday, May 23,2010 at 8pm ET / 5pm PT, live on pay-per-view!

Labels: 2010 over the limit

Posted by Matt Loede at 1:51 PM | Permalink | Comments

Below are some of the latest name changes from WWE developmental:

* The former Dr. Lamar Braxton Porter of WXW is now known as Cable Jones

* Former All Japan star Joe Doering is now known as Drake Brewer

* The former Incognito is now known as Hunico

* The former Ray Leppan and Damien Duke is now called Leo Kruger

* Former OVW star Asher Knight is now known as Rudy Parker

* Sarona Snuka is now being called Tamina

Labels: Rudy Parker, Sarona Snuka

Posted by Matt Loede at 1:50 PM | Permalink | Comments

After last night’s RAW, David Otunga came back to the ring while John Cena was still laid out. Otunga said Batista didn’t have to wait until Extreme Rules to get his rematch against Cena, he could have it now. Batista goes for a quick pin but ends up tapping out after only a minute in. Cena called Otunga back to the ring, hit him with the Attitude Adjustment and made him tap out.

Labels: David Otunga, john cena

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:07 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Vancouver Sun reports that city officials will be having a teleconference with WWE officials this Friday to discuss bringing WrestleMania to the city.

Labels: wrestlemania

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:07 PM | Permalink | Comments

Former WWE and WCW star Chris Kanyon was found dead in his apartment in Queens, New York early this morning at age 40. We're still waiting official details but it's believed he died from an intentional overdose of pills, a suicide.

Labels: chirs kanyon

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:08 PM | Permalink | Comments

WWE has released former Tag Team Champion Lance Cade, again. Cade was re-signed by WWE last October but never used on the main roster after a few appearances in developmental. Cade is now accepting independent bookings at LanceCade@gmail.com.

Labels: lance cade

Posted by Matt Loede at 10:07 PM | Permalink | Comments

Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

- Japanese stars Gedo, Jado and KENTA were all at WrestleMania 26 weekend for the Antonio Inoki Hall of Fame induction. Inoki did a lot of photo ops for the Japanese media, including congratulating RAW’s Yoshi Tatsu on winning the pre-show battle royal.

There was already some Japanese media in town because Major League Baseball star Hideki Matsui is playing pre-season baseball there. This helped out with the coverage from Japan on Inoki’s induction. Part of the reason why Inoki was chosen for this year’s Hall is because of the exposure WWE would be getting in Japan. The media took photos of Inoki with Vince McMahon, where Vince thanked Inoki for the friendship with Vince Sr.

With WWE aiming for maximum exposure in Japan, that could very well be part of the reason why Yoshi Tatsu won the WrestleMania pre-show battle royal.

Labels: Yoshi Tatsu

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:19 AM | Permalink | Comments

- Jack Swagger cashed in his Money in the Bank briefcase on tonight’s SmackDown to become the new World Heavyweight Champion. Swagger appeared in the ring after Edge laid out former World Champion Chris Jericho with a spear. Swagger hit Edge with the briefcase, cashed in and defeated Jericho with the gutwrench powerbomb.

- Edge and Jericho will face each other on next week’s SmackDown to determine the new #1 contender to Swagger’s World Heavyweight Title. Presumably Swagger will defend his belt at the Extreme Rules pay-per-view.

Labels: edge, jack swagger

Posted by Matt Loede at 12:18 AM | Permalink | Comments

WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart updated his Facebook blog with his thoughts about his match with Vince McMahon at WrestleMania XXVI.

"I can't begin to describe the flood of excitement that pulsated through me at seeing the sight of that massive stadium filled with fans," Bret said. "Although I know it was far from my greatest performance, I can proudly say it was one of my most glorious victories I've ever had. Once upon a time in my wheelchair after suffering my stroke in 2002, thinking how impossible it was to even conceive of such a moment makes me as proud as ever of anything I ever did in a ring. It was sweet seeing the entire Hart Family play a part in giving Vince McMahon the beating of his lifetime."

Bret also described a run-in he had with Linda McMahon shortly after his match. "When I briefly saw Linda McMahon afterwards in the hallway, I confessed with a smile that I'd secretly given him a couple of choice chair shots just for her. This drew a burst of laughter and a smile."

Finally, he thanked the entire McMahons family for allowing him to write the final chapter in his career. "In truth, I'd like to thank all the McMahons (and that includes Triple H) for their kindness, hospitality, and for a fantastic three-month ride I'll never forget."

Labels: bret hart, linda mcmahon, wrestlemania 26

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:04 PM | Permalink | Comments

The general feeling among most of those in WWE is that Shawn Michaels is sincere about his retirement. While most realize that Shawn will likely work another match or two down the road, many feel that Shawn believes he’s worked his last match.

Labels: shawn michaels

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:01 PM | Permalink | Comments

Jim Ross has posted a new blog on jrsbarbq.com, clearing up some rumors and talk about him from this past week. Here’s part of what JR wrote:

JR is NOT retiring. It’s tempting and financially doable but I want to work a few more years in a role that is fun and not as laden with stress as some of my previous assignments have been.

No I am not ‘vanishing.’ LIfe is so good here in Norman and I have a tremendous amount of things to look forward to although I know that I have not broadcast my last event. One doesn’t do something for over 35 years and stop cold turkey or at least I don’t.

There are no issues or problems with my negotiations with WWE. The ball is in WWE’s court to put together a new role for me within the company. Essentially they have decided to reassign me from weekly broadcasting and that includes the monthly PPV’s to focus on other areas of the company. I am guessing, and I stress guessing, that may be some form of scouting and/or talent development. I might be wrong on that assumption but I’ll know before the end of April as that is when my current extension expires.

Common sense would dictate that if I like the new position, its travel schedule and how much money that I will earn that it would be a no brainer to sign a multi year deal and move on with the company that I have been with since 1993.

Will I be involved in the WWE TV network that is allegedly going to launch sometime in the summer or fall of 2011? I don’t know but one would simply assume that might be a possibility.

Will I ever write a book? Yes, without question. I have maintained copious notes for decades and my career covers a variety of jobs and roles working for some very unique individuals within American pop culture. I am told by people helping me with a potential book deal that we have several publishers interested and that we will likely be speaking with all of them next week. I want any book that I write to be honest, fair, entertaining and hard hitting. Actually, I feel that I have enough material for two books depending on how the first one is structured.

Is it true that I am looking into the possibility of becoming affiliated with a major public speaking booking company as a talent? Yes, but we are in the infancy of our talks. I’ve long desired to speak to groups when my schedule would allow such.

Labels: jim ross

Posted by Matt Loede at 2:00 PM | Permalink | Comments