Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Ross Responds to Kharma After RAW Comments

Jim Ross posted the following messages on Twitter last night after Kharma mentioned him on RAW:

"Kharma will never be a standard issue wwe diva. She's a wrestler. And a keeper. JR shout outs always welcome on Raw. :)

Lots of angry folks. Ask @Kharma the story. She's a wrestler & not a typical WWE Diva. King havin fun w/ OKC Thunder. Yes, I'm fat. Duh.

Kharma My fat arse getting all kinds of evil Tweets. I'm a Kharma fan BTW. Does every female wrestler HAVE 2 be a 'Diva?'

Thnx to those that understand the @Kharma issue. I met her 4 1st time 3 yrs ago @ CAC w/ Steve Austin & we both endorsed her to WWE."

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Details for WWE's New Video Game - WWE '12

IGN Has released details on the new WWE 12 Video game:

"For years WWE SmackDown vs. Raw has been the Sports Entertainment simulation series from THQ and Yuke's Yokohama. It's been a fun ride, but as with any franchise, fans have complained about annual aspects over and over again. Turns out the developers were listening, killed the series, and are planning on fixing things with WWE '12.

The stiff animations, the characters warping into place for certain moves, the confusing right analog stick controls for grapples -- WWE '12 is addressing all of that and feels good so far. That's pretty damn exciting.

Now, it would be easy to glance at screenshots and assume THQ and developer Yuke's Yokohama just dumped the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw name and called it a day. That's what I did. For a few days leading into my meeting, THQ had been telling me this game was going to be unlike any other WWE game I had seen, but when I finally laid eyes on it, WWE '12 sure did look similar to WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011.

Then, I started to play it. THQ and Yuke's didn't just change the name, they changed the game's DNA. There's a new animation system, new blending methods, something called "Predator Technology" -- basically, they went under the game's hood and ripped out all the old stuff that people hated and plugged in brand new parts to try and make the most fluid wrestling game around.

When John Cena's suplexing an opponent, a third Superstar can punch Cena and break up the move. You can do that for any move -- even Finishers and mini-games like the Royal Rumble eliminations. When you're slammed to the mat at the beginning of a bout, you're going to sell the move and get up at the same time so that the match keeps a fast-paced feel. When you're getting up from any move, you're going to have a window to strike before you're even to your feet. The goal is to have a game that feels like anything can happen from any position and eradicate that stiffness and clunkiness that has always been a calling card of WWE SmackDown vs. Raw.

For me, it all came together watching a three-man match. Orton laid out an opponent and went to the ring apron, Cena immediately started his 5-Knuckle Shuffle routine on the downed man, and as Cena was coming down, Randy Orton launched himself from the apron to land a splash. Orton hit, Cena hit, and Orton hit again. The sequence was polished and fast -- it looked like a spot from ECW of old. There was no blown animation as the character on the ground reacted to the first move and ignored the other.

People don't warp to the center of the ring for a 5-Knuckle Shuffle and similar moves anymore; the move happens where it happens. The ropes no longer stay awkwardly still during matches; you slam someone and the ring reacts. The tired fonts and menus of old have been ditched for a new setup. Visually, new shaders and tech have been introduced to make the game look better than ever. There's definition to the character's faces instead of the blur there was last year, and depth of field has been introduced to give the brand new arenas weight and realism.

The game, according to THQ, has been taken apart and put back together, and from the little I've seen, I believe them -- though the changes aren't monumental when you stare at a still image, they shine in motion.

Seeing the game in motion is where the proof of all these Predators and shaders lives. I've already talked about how the moves flow together, but there's more to it than that. The days of analog stick grapples are over. Now, everything's going back to the face buttons of your favorite controller. Grapple, strike, pin and Finisher are all right there for the taking. There are no strong and weak grapples -- the moves you're pulling off are dependent on how worn down the opponent is.

That's all well and good, but there are specific things THQ has peppered in that affect the gameplay. First, there's limb targeting in WWE '12. You can attack the head, arms or legs, and while this obviously puts you in a good place for certain finishers, it also really twists the match in whatever direction you want it to go. If you're up against a lightning quick high flier, you can work the legs so the opponent can't get around as quickly and can't zip up the turnbuckles. Work the head, and the opponent is going to be a groggy mess. All this plays into how easy it'll be to get an opponent to tap in the new "Breaking Point" submission system where players tap buttons in a tug of war mini-game.

Epic brawls are going to look like the epic brawls you see on TV -- both in terms of the new camera angle that's more pulled back and the gameplay speed I talked about earlier -- but they get even more like Monday Night Raw when you add in the new Wake Up Taunts in WWE '12. Basically, you know how Randy Orton pounds the ground before he goes to hit his Finisher on TV? That can happen in the game now. You knock your opponent down with your Finisher primed, hit the taunt button, and you'll get a celebration that ends with the opponent getting to his feet in the perfect setup for your big move. The opponent gets a chance at reversing it, but it really brings together that TV style presentation THQ's been working on for the last few years.

That said, I thought the stamina bar was a bit of a step backwards in WWE '12. The last few WWE SmackDown vs. Raw games incorporated a barely visible halo around the Superstars feet to keep players in-tune with how they're doing in a match and not distract from the presentation. As of now, WWE '12 features a big meter with a name on it at the bottom of the screen showing how close you are to building a Signature or Finisher (you can store two Finishers). I found it jarring as the game looks better than ever and is trying so hard to mimic broadcasts.

Still, that's the only gripe I have with the new direction. WWE '12 also adds Dynamic Comebacks, which are those tried and true combos you see folks like Cena throw out that take them from the edge of defeat to clearing the ring. If you reach a certain amount of damage, you'll be able to have a shot to use this one-time combo. Pull it off, and you get two Finishers.

These stored Finishers and Dynamic Comebacks make it seem like my friends and I are going to have some awesome matches, but THQ and Yuke's want you to have awesome matches with computer-controlled opponents, too. The AI learns this time around. If you spam run attacks like I do (I'm infamous on the Internet for my floatover DDT), the computer opponent is supposed to recognize that and be ready to counter it. For the first time, THQ says that the computer is going to remember what you've been doing and what it's been doing. (i.e. if it picks up a chair, it's not going to drop it -- it's going to hit you with it.)

Balancing the difficulty isn't just a focus when it comes to the man versus machine matches. THQ found that people figured out how to master the pinning system pretty quickly in SVR 11, so it's been redone in WWE '12. It's still a metered system (hold a button to fill a meter and release it when it gets to a window on the meter), but the window moves around this time at random -- it won't always be in the same spot. Similarly, the window size varies on how beat up you are, and if you're pinned after the opponent hits his Finisher, the meter might not pop up to the two-count so you'd only have one shot at it. "

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Who was the Fan R-Truth Threw a Drink at During RAW?

The adult male who R-Truth threw a soda at last night on Raw was played by actor Kelci Jones.

A fan wrote, "The father on Raw tonight was actually an actor from Omaha who was with his nephew(s). He is active in the local arts and music scene in Omaha, Nebraska.

"His name is Kelci Jones. He is a friend on Facebook and stated yesterday that he would be on with his nephew. I was curious how that was going to play out. He stated that Vince McMahon 'liked his swagger.'"

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R-Truth vs Cena the Main Event at Capitol Punishment



WWE has posted video of the Anonymous Raw General Manager's major announcement following last night's Raw broadcast.

As said by Michael Cole: "And I quote. Based on R-Truth's victory tonight, R-Truth has earned a match with the WWE Champion. Therefore, as the main event at Capitol Punishment, John Cena will defend the WWE Championship against R-Truth on one condition. R-Truth must apologize next week for his abhorrent behavior tonight."

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New WWE Video Game Out November 22nd

The new WWE '12 video game will be released in North America on November 22nd of this year and in the UK on November 25th for all major platforms.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Kharma Out 9 Months - Reports Say Pregnant

PWInsider.com reports that Kharma is pregnant. According to F4WOnline.com, it is believed that she will be out “for over nine months.”

The former TNA Women’s Knockout Champion was scripted to break down into tears on Monday’s Raw, which the announcers described as a nervous breakdown. The angle was done to remove her from television for the time being.

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Latest on Cena vs Punk

There has been talk of having John Cena be CM Punk’s last feud, should Punk leave WWE at the end of the Summer when his contract expires. There has even been talk of having Punk wrestle Cena in his final match, putting him over, if things get that far without Punk re-signing

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Layla To Have Surgery for Both Torn MCL and ACL

Former WWE Women's Champion Layla announced this evening on her Twitter account that she tore both the ACL and MCL in her knee and will undergo surgery tomorrow.

"Well my knee injury is worse than I thought... I tore both my ACL and MCL," she wrote. "Having surgery tomorrow."

"I'm ready to heal and be stronger than ever!!!!"

She continued, "Not gonna blame anyone yet for making it worse than after Michelle McCool and my match.

"Just need the time to heal. Thank you all for support always."

Recovery time for her injury is expected to be approximately six months.

Layla announced on the May 13 episode of SmackDown that during her match with Michelle McCool at Extreme Rules, she sustained a serious knee injury. Following Michael Cole's interruption, Kharma emerged. Cole proceeded to trip Layla, allowing the monstrous woman to drive her into the mat.

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Kevin Nash Wants a Feud with The Big Show

In a new interview with John Pollock of The Fight Network, Kevin Nash says he hopes to face Big Show at this year's WWE SummerSlam pay-per-view and talks about almost doing something with Show at the WrestleMania 27 pay-per-view last month. Nash notes that it wouldn't have been fair to take the WrestleMania spot of another WWE Superstar who had been waiting on their first WrestleMania.

Regarding his WWE return at the Royal Rumble earlier this year, Nash said those few moments were better than anything that happened to him during his five year stint with TNA.

Nash also talks about how Shawn Michaels (who he thinks won't ever return), other veterans and himself may get involved with WWE's developmental process that Triple H is currently heading up.

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"The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase Talks About the Death of Randy Savage

WWE Hall of Famer "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase, a long time colleague of "Macho Man" Randy Savage, appeared on Monday Night Mayhem, which airs every Monday at 7:00 p.m. Highlights from his interview are as follows:

His reaction to Savage's passing and how he always saw himself identifying with Randy throughout his career:

"I identified with Randy a lot. We both had a lot in common, in that we were both buys who grew up in this industry whose fathers were wrestlers. I've always believed that for kids who that grew up in the industry that it's not just a job, but it's something they fell in love with and something they've known all their lives. There's a certain camaraderie there. In a word, Randy was charismatic. He'll be very missed, and it's sad."

What he will personally and professionally remember the most about Randy, both inside and outside the ring:

"It was his professionalism. He was all business. He would laugh, and cut up, and have fun too, but for the most part, he was a consummate pro. He took his job and his work very seriously, and I always admired that. He was incredibly dedicated."

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Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Mysterio Loving the Feud with R-Truth

Rey Mysterio is said to be thrilled about his new feud with R-Truth on RAW. Rey specifically requested a feud with Truth when he was drafted to Monday nights and was told he would get it once Truth’s feud with John Morrison was over.

Since Morrison got injured, the Truth-Rey feud was done earlier than planned.

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A WWE Hall of Famer Talks About the McMahon-Savage Fallout

One of "The Macho Man" Randy Savage's greatest rivals from the 80's, George "The Animal" Steele, was on Busted Open with Doug Mortman and Dave LaGreca, which airs Mondays and Wednesdays at 2-4 PM ET on Sirius 92 and XM 207.

"That's been said a lot of different ways, and there's been a lot of different things said that are not true necessarily."

"I think that what happened with Randy, when his career was winding down with the WWF, Vince McMahon just loved Randy," he continued. "After all everything Randy had done and he took him under his wing, and he wanted Randy after the ring was over with for him, he wanted him to be our spokesperson. He was traveling with Vince all the time. Randy was almost like a son, they were really tight. And then one day, we were at a TV meeting, and we got word that Randy, without calling Vince, had left and jumped to the WCW."

"I had never seen Vince McMahon broken before, he was crushed. It hurt him big time and I don't think he ever got over that. I think that's the real problem to be honest with you. I heard all this other stuff that I think is garbage when it comes to Randy and relationships with daughters and all that stuff... I don't think that's anywhere's close to the truth."

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An extraordinary tribute to "Macho Man" Randy Savage

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Former Creative Writer Rips WWE Over Randy Savage Tribute Video On Raw

Former WWE creative writer Chris DeJoseph (a/k/a Big Dick Johnson), who worked alongside Vince McMahon from 2005 through 2010, ripped his former employer over last night's Randy Savage tribute video on Raw. He feels it's hypocritical that WWE would sing the Macho Man's praises after he had been ostracized from the organization during the final years of his life.

Pointing the finger of blame to Vince McMahon, DeJoseph wrote on Twitter, "Vince is steaming watching this Macho Man package.

"Only in death Macho Man was allowed back on WWE TV. Such a shame. Such hypocrisy makes me sick."

He continued, "I was always told never to mention the name Macho Man EVER!"

DeJoseph then recalls pitching Savage for a storyline years ago and being told to never mention his name again.

"We pitched Macho Man and then we were told never to mention his name again because it was "personal," he wrote.

Wrestling Observer editor Dave Meltzer reported years ago that whenever someone on the writing staff pitched an idea to McMahon about bringing Savage back to WWE, he would immediately get angry and shoot the idea down flat. One day, however, head SmackDown writer Michael Hayes pitched an angle about Savage. Instead of giving his usual angry, expletive-laden response, McMahon peered off into the distance, collected his thoughts and said, "I do not want to do business with that man."

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Monday, May 23, 2011

What Grade Do You Give "Over the Limit"


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2011 Over the Limit Results and Commentary



WWE's Over the Limit took place Sunday night in Seattle, WA, and coming off WrestleMania and Extreme Rules, you knew this PPV was going to be a dud. And it was. The matches themselves were not awful for the most part, but this was nothing more than a longer three-hour RAW.

Here's the results and comments on each match.

I Quit Match for the WWE Title

John Cena over The Miz - This was a sleeper as a main event on a number of levels. First they decided to make it a "handicap" match with Miz's buddy Alex Riley joining him to try and defeat Cena. Then all it was for about 12 minutes was Riley and Miz doing almost like torture tactis to try and get Cena to submit.

Then to bury Miz even more, they allow Cena one stretch of offense up the ramp, and the minute he gets him in the STFU the Miz quickly gives up. Terrible match, and here's hoping they don't have a third round at the next PPV.

World Heavyweight Title Match

Randy Orton Over Christian - I enjoyed this match, as these two faces again gave us a solid match with a ton of close two counts. Orton got the win on a great counter and RKO, and while he's now 2-0 vs Christian, I would love to see round three with a stip at the next PPV - how about a ladder match? Clearly the best match of the night.

WWE Intercontinental Title Match

Ezekiel Jackson best Wade Barrett via DQ - Obvious finish with the interference of the Corre and Jackson winning, but not getting the belt. I know they want to keep up Barrett's push, but they shouldn't bury Jackson either, as I think he can be something for the Smackdown brand in the future.

WWE Tag Team Title Match

Big Show and Kane over CM Punk & Mason Ryan - No issues with the champs winning, but they do all this crazy "Batista" like build for Ryan, and then he gets pinned. I didn't get that. And now it seems Punk is nothing more than a sideshow act with Nexus, and he hasn't had a good match since Mania. Not sure the long term plan with anyone in this match.

WWE Divas Title Match

Brie Bella over Kelly Kelly - All they have done for the last few weeks is push Kharma, and now on a PPV she's nowhere to be found. The Bella's do a little old school "Killer Bees" switch to get the win, and Kelly Kelly is left scratching her head. I still think she gets the belt eventually, only to be squashed by Kharma.

Kiss My Foot Match

Jerry Lawler over Michael Cole - As I tweeted last night, I so hope this feud is finally over. They did it right, with JR coming out, Eve (that was odd) coming out, and then finally Bret Hart coming out to help Lawler as well. I thought we might see a face turn for Jack Swagger, but they didn't do that. Cole is bad on the mic now as a heel, and even worse as a wrestler. I can see them doing the Jonathan Coachman thing with him and eventually taking him out of the booth and making him a manager or GM.


R-Truth Over Rey Mysterio - Good opener, and they did the right thing with contuning the push for Truth as he got a clean win. He won't ever be a main event guy IMO, but can be a solid mid-card heel that can push for a IC title down the road.

Sin Cara over Chavo Guerrero - Worried about Sin Cara, he wins on a botched move, and while Guerrero allowed him to do all his offense in the match, seems like the crowd really doesn't care all that much about this guy, and rather see more of Mysterio. Will be interesting to see what they do with Cara now that he's won his first important match.

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Friday, May 20, 2011

Hogan Distraught Over Death of Savage

From: E! News Online

The death of Randy "Macho Man" Savage this morning has crushed Hulk Hogan.

The two WWE vets were bitter rivals (on camera, at least) for years before becoming good friends and tag-teaming as the Mega Powers in the late '80s. A decade later, they had a falling out and didn't speak for a long time.

But after getting wind of today's tragic news, a grieving Hogan took to Twitter to reflect and pay tribute.

"I'm completely devastated, after over 10 years of not talking with Randy, we've finally started to talk and communicate," Hulk tweeted. "He had so much life in his eyes & in his spirit, I just pray that he's happy and in a better place and we miss him."

The Hulkster added: "We miss him a lot. I feel horrible about the ten years of having no communication. This was a tough one."

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A Picture Says 1000 Words

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WWE Classic: Savage's WrestleMania III Bout with Ricky Steamboat

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Ross Writes on the Passing of Randy Savage

Jim Ross blogs at his site at JR's BBQ about the Friday passing of former WWE Champ Randy "Macho Man" Savage.

It's been a challenging week. First, the untimely death Thursday of 22 year old Oklahoma Sooners middle linebacker and a young man I befriended, Austin Box. Today we get the shocking news of the death of Randy Savage. Life is so fragile.....a few thoughts.

I was never close to Randy Savage but I had immense respect for his in ring work. Savage was a gifted high flier, had uncanny crowd psychology and a tough, athletic persona that could not be duplicated.

'Macho Man' Randy Savage was a legit star in the world of pro wrestling and one of the most famous wrestlers of any era.

My first exposure to Savage was in the early to mid 80's when Bill Watts was preparing to bring Savage into the Mid South territory. We had received several interviews and other video tape from Randy to compile 4-6 weeks of introductory vignettes that would intro Savage to the Mid South TV audience most of who had never seen 'Macho Man' Randy Savage in person.

I can still vividly remember working with fellow Watts employee Scott Munz on the edit of the vignettes while writing copy and then voicing over the features.

Ironically, after working several long nights on this project the vignettes never aired. Savage never made it to Mid South.

At that time, according to a text message earlier today from Watts himself, Savage was running 'opposition' against the Jarrett/Lawler 'Tennessee' territory. This business strategy put Savage on the wrong side of many promoters especially those who were friends of Jarrett and company and certainly those who supported NWA camps.

According to Watts, Savage was in need of bookings and the paydays that went along with them and wanted to come to work for the big Cowboy. I recall looking at the footage of Savage with Bill and we were both obviously impressed with what we saw.

Watts had a good relationship at that time with Jerry Jarrett, they even did a talent trade once upon a time that helped both territories, and Bill knew that if Jarrett/Lawler/Savage could work together that they could all make money as the volatile 'opposition' plot line had received main stream, local publicity and had piqued the publics interest.

Watts was able to help broker 'peace' between Jarrett and Savage by having, as I recall, a very stern, man to man talk with Savage about missed opportunities and the fact that most old school promoters would always look upon Randy unfavorably because of his family running opposition especially if Randy was not willing to extend the olive branch.

The rest is essentially wrestling history. Peace was restored in the Jarrett/Lawler/Savage area while King and Macho Man launched one of the hottest issues ever in the business. The two artisans sold out the legendary Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky that held well over 20,000 fans with more fans buying tickets to that event than virtually any other indoor event of that era including such famous arenas as Madison Square Garden.

In 1985 Savage roared into the WWE and his star was hung prominently for the entire world to see and did it ever shine brightly!

BTW after Savage left WWE and doing huge business while earning mega bucks, Randy called Bill Watts to thank Bill for Cowboy's advice back in the day which eventually got Savage noticed as a potential, main event acquisition for WWE.

Randy Savage is arguably one of the top 2-3 wrestlers that helped establish the WWE as the dominate promotion of its kind in the world. Savage deserves to be mentioned in the same sentence as Andre, Hulk, Piper, etc.

When I arrived in WWE in 1993, Savage was, unknown to me, on his way out. Randy, Bobby Heenan and I broadcast WM9 from ringside at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas on my first live, TV assignment for WWE. Broadcasting with 'Macho Man' was never easy but it was also never dull. He was as unpredictable wearing headsets as he was in his wrestling tights.

Unpredictability and breaking molds is a marketable trait and without question 'Macho Man' Randy Savage was one of the most marketable, unforgettable persona's to ever grace the squared circle.

Savage as a pitchman for Slim Jim was an instant success and forged an unforgettable image for the Slim Jim company that Randy literally put on his broad shoulders and carried to prominence back in the day when Slim Jim was attempting to gain a foothold in the snack food market. Some might argue that Savage is as well known for his ubiquitous Slim Jim commercials as he was for his wrestling exploits.

In my over four decades in the business, I have never encountered anyone who I perceived was as intense, 24X7, as 'Macho Man' Randy Savage. He was a gifted athlete, he played minor league baseball a handful of years, and brought artful athleticism and raw reality to his profession.

Before I ever stepped foot in WWE, I thought, as one who was earning a living in the business elsewhere, that the Savage-Steamboat match from WM3 was the best WWE match that I had ever seen. A handful of other bouts since then have ranked right up there with it but after a quarter of a century the 'Macho Man-Dragon' encounter from the Pontiac Silverdome still holds up today as an all time wrestling classic.

One never had to guess where they stood with Savage and he never had any issues expressing himself. He was, seemingly, always on edge or, perhaps more specifically, on point. Randy carried himself as one not to be trifled with and as a man who had great passion for his profession and unmatched intensity.

Fans of the genre of pro wrestling lost one of the most famous and skilled performers of all time this morning in Tampa when the former WWE Champion apparently had a heart attack while driving his vehicle with his wife of one year who was the sole passenger.

Our condolences go out to the Poffo family, Macho Man's friends and fans and to all whose lives were touched by 'Macho Madness.'

RIP Macho Man Randy Savage.

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Bret Hart and The Rock on the Passing of Randy Savage

Bret Hart commented on the passing of Randy Savage, writing on his Twitter account, "I have no words to say. This one hits me hard. We lost one of the best."

Dwayne Johnson also commented on Savage's passing today, writing,"RIP Randy "Macho Man" Savage - you were one of my childhood inspirations and heros. Strength, love and prayers to the Savage/Poffo family."

Kevin Nash commented, "I lost a close friend today. If anybody in heaven is wondering who the cat in the ugly cowboy hat is it's Randy. Love you Bro. Never another."

Mick Foley commented, "Though I only met Randy Savage a handful of times, he was one of my all-time favorite performers ... I loved his style, in the ring and on the microphone."

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Tons of Stars Twitter About the Passing of Randy Savage

William Regal - "Just heard of the passing of Randy Savage.A one of a kind great performer. RIP."

Jim Ross - "Just heard Macho Man died this morning of a heart attack while driving his vehicle in Tampa. Condolences to all Randy Savage fans/family."

. John Cena - "CeNation. The untimely passing of randy savage is indeed tragic. All true fans of wrestling will mourn this loss. One of the all time greats"

Zack Ryder - "RIP MACHO MAN. One of my favorites and one of the best of all time. DIG IT! http://t.co/PSYmsrJ"

Shawn Michaels - "@IAmJericho jus txt me the news. We've lost one of the greats!! Our prayers go out to the family & friends of Randy Savage."

Trish Stratus - "Rest in peace Randy-my first inspiration in the ring. My prayers & condolences to the Savage family #RIPMachoMan"

Howard Finkel - "I am profoundly saddened by the passing of one of the all-time greats, Macho Man Randy Savage. My condolences go out to the Poffo family."

Mark Henry - "Wow family, one of my favorites is gone! Rest well (Randy savage) you will be missed. Savage vs steamboat look it up do yourself a favor family one of my favorite."

Kharma - "In utter shock about Macho Man. So much charisma in one soul. #ripmachoman"

Yoshi Tatsu - "The Macho Man Randy Savage was one of my heros when I was childhood and one of the best of all time. Rest in peace."

Rey Mysterio - "RIP Macho Man Randy Savage! Doing promotion in Seattle for Over the Limit ppv, was asked earlier today at a radio station, Who would I of loved to wrestle from back in da day? I said would of loved to hit it off in a 3ple threat, Macho Man, Ricky the Dragon, and myself!RIP RMS!"

CM Punk - " “@BretHart: I have no words to say. This one hits me hard. We lost one of the best.” This sums it up."

Lucky Cannon - "My respect and condolence goes out to a true iconic figure the Macho Man Randy Savage and his family!"

Goldust - "Prayers go out to randy savage family.....god be with them in this tough time"

Vickie Guerrero - "RIP Randy Macho Man Savage. My prayers are to your family"

Darren Young - "JUST like that! Life can end. Tell those close to ya that you love them cause ya never know! RIP Macho Man"

Wade Barrett - "Bow to the kingdom of the madness. RIP Macho Man, amazing performer."

Titus O'Neil - "My Prayers go out to the family,friends&former colleagues of WWE Superstar Randy "Macho Man"Savage who passed away this morning.God Bless"

Natalya - "My prayers are with Randy Savage and his family right now."

Curt Hawkins - "I carry this picture in my gear bag ...7yr old Hawkins & my 1st tag team partner. RIP Macho Man. http://yfrog.com/h097hykj"

JTG - "To one of my favorite Hall of Famers, inducted or not. Macho Man Randy Savage. R.I.P OOOOOOOOOH YEEEEEEEAH !"

Ezekiel Jackson - "Whoa....just heard about macho man Randy savage...God bless the family, the wrestling world just lost one of the greatest ever...R.I.P"

Justin Roberts - "Macho Man...simply awesome. Incredible and entertaining in everything he did. One of the best ever. RIP"

Christian - "Sad 2 hear about "Macho Man"Randy Savage..Only met him once briefly.No doubt 1 of the best & influenced so many performers you see today RIP"

Scott Stanford - "Sorry to hear about the Macho Man! He was one of the best!"

Jeff Jarrett - "Just got a call w the news. RIP Randy. I met him when I was 11yrs old. He would always teach, correct, encourage, and compliment as my career progressed. I have NEVER forgotten the intricacies and attention to detail he taught me over the years. Randy always had a method to his madness. Randy is gone, but will never be forgotten. Thoughts and prayers are w the entire Poffo family. And, he may be the greatest card player the business has ever seen... When he lost, he was only setting you up to take more money from you!

Tommy Dreamer - "Randy Savage was the 1st person I saw piledrive someone thru a table. Thanks 4 all the memories. Hope u walk the aisle w/ Liz & Sherri again"

Doug Williams - "RIP #randysavage I was fortunate to see him live at his peak..."

Karen Jarrett - "My thoughts and prayers go out to Randy Savage's wife and family!"

Mickie James - "Ooh No! My childhood favorite! RIP Macho Man... *finger in the air*

Jay Lethal - "R.I.P. Macho Man Randy Savage. You were amazing... Oohh yea!!!"

Shane Helms - "Totally heartbreaking news about Randy Savage. One of my all-time favs!! So sad!! RIP Macho"

Shelly Martinez - "Sad news about Macho Man My prayers r with his soul and all grieving his passing :( "

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Notes on the Passing of Randy Savage

From: PWInsider.com

According to TampaBay.com, local authorities noted that Savage lost control of his Jeep Wrangler, which crashed over a median into oncoming traffic and into a tree. It is believed a heart attack was the cause of the crash but that cannot be confirmed until an autopsy is completed. Lanny Poffo told TMZ.com it was a heart attack.

Savage's wife of one year, Lynn, suffered minor injuries in the crash. Both Lynn and Randy were wearing their seat belts at the time of the crash. Our deepest condolences go out to Lynn and Lanny as well as the rest of their friends and family.

Savage's passing is already becoming a huge mainstream story as I've heard mentions of it on numerous radio stations in the NYC area and he's trending on Twitter. The AP and TV Guide already have stories up as well.

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Randy "Macho Man" Savage Dies in Car Accident



TMZ is reporting that Randy "Macho Man" Savage was killed earlier today in a car accident Tampa, Florida.

TMZ spoke with Randy's brother, Lanny Poffo, who tells us the wrestling legend suffered a heart attack while he was behind the wheel around 10 AM ... and lost control of his vehicle.

Earlier this month, Savage celebrated his 1-year anniversary with his new wife Lynn.

Savage was 58.

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Thursday, May 19, 2011

RAW Ratings for 5/16 Show Del Rio vs Mysterio Gain Viewers

The May 16th WWE RAW did a 3.09 rating with 4.69 million viewers. Here's a segment breakdown:

Kofi Kingston vs. CM Punk lost 97,000 viewers from the opener while Kelly Kelly vs. Brie Bella and Kharma's appearance gained 333,000 viewers. There seems to be a trend of Diva segments doing well in the ratings since Kharma's arrival.

Alberto Del Rio vs. Rey Mysterio gained 1,500 viewers, which isn't good for the 10pm timeslot. Jerry Lawler and Michael Cole's contract signing lost 70,000 viewers while Kane & Big Show vs. Nexus lost 165,000 more viewers.

The main event of John Cena vs. Jack Swagger and The Miz's post-match attack gained 560,000 viewers, bringing the overrun to a 3.40. This less than usual for RAW's overruns.

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Corre Member Teaming with Randy Orton

WWE will be going to South Africa in early July and will run two shows on the 9th and 10th in Johannesburg where The Corre member Justin Gabriel will be wrestling as a top babyface. Gabriel is from South Africa and his father was a wrestling promoter in the country. Gabriel will be teaming with Randy Orton to take on Christian and Sheamus.

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New Talent on the Way in WWE; Releases Coming

Several WWE developmental talents besides Maxine and AJ Lee are scheduled to be called up to WWE’s main roster soon. Those post-WrestleMania roster cuts are also still expected to happen soon.

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Angle Expected for Austin on RAW On June 6th

Steve Austin is scheduled for the June 6th and the June 13th RAW shows. Word is that they are planning an angle for the 6/6 show that will lead into the 6/13 show. Nobody expects Austin to wrestle, but he’s been keeping up the war of words with CM Punk on Twitter so those two may end up doing something next month.

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Triple H Being Advertisited for Money in the Bank

Arguably the biggest WWE superstar will be returning at Money in the Bank 2011. An email blast sent out by the WWE advertises the return of Triple H. It is unknown whether The Game will lace up the boots or just making a non-ring appearance on July 17.

It is no secret that Triple H is in the midst of winding down his in-ring professional wrestling career. The WWE recently announced that the former world champion is the new head of WWE talent development. The Game has spent his time recently helping craft the debut and signings of Sin Cara and Kharma and is currently working with upcoming talent on the WWE roster.

It will be interesting to see if Triple H makes some kind of a return to active action whether it is part time or full time. It has been well over a year since Triple H has been a regular performer on the WWE roster. Triple H disappeared last year after a feud with Sheamus and didn’t reappear until nine months later, when he returned to WWE RAW as part of the infamous 2-21-11 RAW surprise.

If less is more, Triple H is certainly making the most of his twilight years as a professional wrestler. Triple H wrestled his first match in over eleven months at WrestleMania 27. Triple H vs. The Undertaker has been regarded in some circles as one of the greatest matches in WrestleMania history, and was arguably the show stealer at this year’s WrestleMania. Triple H made one more appearance the night after WrestleMania 27 but has disappeared into the dungeons of Titan Towers ever since.

The WWE has a tough dilemma with Triple H. The talent pool has never been thinner and the only two superstars on the WWE rosters are Randy Orton and John Cena. Triple H would certainly be a welcome boost to the company roster. On the other hand, the company really needs to utilize this down period to build new stars. Bringing back Triple H is certainly a step in the wrong direction if the WWE hopes to prepare for the future.

This could also be the start of a big SummerSlam 2011 angle. There were rumors of a planned Triple H vs. The Undertaker SummerSlam match. I have heard from a few different sources that the WWE would move faster with a rematch rather than sit on it and commit this early to another WrestleMania 28 match. Of course the other side to this is that it gives Triple H the chance to get his win back without compromising the streak. While a WrestleMania 28 rematch could still be on the table, it also gives the WWE freedom to jump on an opportunity if it presents itself like an Undertaker vs. Sting, Brock Lensar, Batista, etc match.

Of course I have no idea what Triple H could do at this point back in the WWE. After all, he did say nothing else matters other than ending The Undertaker’s WrestleMania streak didn’t he?

WWE Money in the Bank 2011 takes place July 17 in Chicago, Ill. at Allstate Arena.

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Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Latest "Over the Limit" PPV Card

It was announced tonight on Raw that Big Show and Kane would be defending the WWE Tag Team Championship against CM Punk and Mason Ryan this Sunday at WWE Over the Limit.

Meanwhile, Michael Cole signed a match contract with Jerry Lawler for WWE Over the Limit. After they had each signed, though, Cole revealed that he'd inserted a stipulation making the contest a Kiss My Foot Match.

The announced card is as follows:

"I Quit" Match for the WWE Championship
John Cena (c) vs. The Miz

WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match
Randy Orton (c) vs. Christian

Kiss My Foot Match
Jerry Lawler vs. Michael Cole
(Jerry Lawler will give up his WWE Hall of Fame ring to Michael Cole in the event of a loss.)

WWE Intercontinental Championship Match
Wade Barrett (c) vs. Ezekiel Jackson

WWE Tag Team Championship Match
Big Show and Kane (c) vs. CM Punk and Mason Ryan

Rey Mysterio vs. R-Truth

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Former NXT Diva Scheduled to Debut on SmackDown

WWE officials have plans to promote numerous developmental wrestlers to the main roster in the ensuing weeks. However, the only talent confirmed to be called up to the main roster at this time is NXT Season 3 contestant Maxine. She is scheduled to debut on the SmackDown brand at tomorrow night’s television tapings in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Maxine, who’s real name is Karlee Leilani Perez, has been in WWE’s developmental system since June 2009. She’s generally utilized in a speaking/managing capacity in Florida Championship Wrestling, as opposed to wrestling. She currently reigns as the General Manager of FCW, and manages Lucky Cannon.

Months ago, WWE planned to cut ties with a number of main roster performers after Wrestlemania, then calling up developmental talents to fill the undercard of the main rosters, with the idea that they could cut costs by using lower priced talent. There were rumblings late last week that the process would be starting shortly.

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JR On McIntyre, Sin Cara vs Daniel Bryan, More

Jim Ross has posted a new blog entry on his official website, www.jrsbarbq.com. Highlights are as follows:

Drew McIntyre: “What do I think of Drew McIntyre? Lots of potential, nice look, seems to be athletic but it needs to be established as to who the Scot is and what his immediate objectives are.”

Sin Cara vs. Daniel Bryan: “I did enjoy Sin Cara vs. Daniel Bryan’s match on Smackdown a great deal and the involvement of Chavo Guerrero into the Cara mix as well. Cara is developing nicely, was a predictable, HUGE hit in Mexico last weekend for WWE, but Cara needs to accelerate his learning to speak English so he can communicate with a large portion of the WWE audience.”

WWE utilizing Hall of Famers at live events:
“Yes…I like the way WWE is using WWE HOF’ers to add to the live event experience ala The American Dream this weekend in Lake Charles, La and Dream’s hometown of Austin, Texas. These specific bookings provide many potential resources including meet and greet opportunities, advance PR/media work, a reconnection to previous generations of fans, and adds much needed star power to the live events. I’d pay good money just to hear Dusty cut an impassioned promo about any subject that he chose. Perhaps WWE should draw suggestions for a Dusty promo from a hat and watch him go to town…..if you will.”

TNA placing billboards near WWE HQ: “I heard about TNA putting up billboards in Stamford, Ct, which is the world HQ of WWE. Thoughts? A complete waste of money unless obscure mentions such as this one is what TNA is looking for. Silly expenditure of money IMO. One would think that organization would have bigger and more important fish to fry. However, what TNA does isn’t any of my business or concern but the question was asked and has now been addressed. I would guess that many WWE, Stamford based employees learned of TNA for the first time via the local billboards.”

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Monday, May 16, 2011

Get A Free Gillette Fusion ProGlide Razor



Last year, we partnered with Gillette to give away a number of Fusion ProGlide razors before they even hit store shelves. And now, we're doing it once again - Only this time, it's so you can take the ProGlide Challenge.

The ProGlide Challenge is the ultimate face-off between your current razor and the ProGlide.

Click on the widget below, punch in your info, and they'll send you a free razor. Then you can see if the new "Snowplow Comfort Guard" that stretches your skin and plows away excess shave cream to keep the blade on your skin, "Microcomb" that guides whiskers into the blades, thinner blades for less tug and pull, Blade Stabilizer to keep the 5 blades at "optimal spacing for comfort," and thicker, longer lasting lubricating strip, beat out whatever blade you're currently using.

Gillette Fusion ProGlide : Sign-up to get a FREE PROGLIDE




Let Gillette know what you think about the Challenge - Share your thoughts on Twitter using #ProGlideChallenge or @Gillette, or leave a comment on their Facebook page.

Offer good while supplies last, so don't delay!

Thursday, May 12, 2011

Austin Comments On The Possibility Of Returning To The Ring



Several weeks ago, WWE Hall of Famer "Stone Cold" Steve Austin made headlines when he said that he is healthy enough that he could wrestle a full-time schedule for 2 more years if he really wanted to.

During a recent interview with the UK Sun, Austin clarified that he has no intention getting back into the ring as an active competitor:

"I'm happy being gone and out of the business to the degree I am, that's why the Tough Enough thing was such a great opportunity between my other projects. I can be as hands-on and as close as I want to be. I'm not attempting to come back and I have a load of memories from a business I love."

"I got up there and took some bumps with one of the contestants and worked around with one of the guys and I had fun getting in the ring and bouncing around again."

"But it doesn't mean I want to go and do it again on a night in, night out basis."

Austin said that he plans to continue focusing on his acting career.

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Breakdown of the May 9th Ratings for RAW

The May 9th episode of WWE RAW did a 3.18 rating with 4.95 million viewers. Here's a ratings breakdown:

Kelly Kelly and Eve Torres vs. The Bella Twins with Kharma's attack lost 177,000 viewers from the opener. Kane vs. Mason Ryan and Dolph Ziggler vs. Santino Marella lost another 353,000 viewers.

Backstage segments going into Alex Riley vs. John Cena gained 104,000 viewers while the match itself gained another 685,000 viewers. You could say that Riley did better than The Miz usually does in the same spot.

The segment with Michael Cole, Jerry Lawler and Jack Swagger lost 172,000 viewers, which isn't that bad for the time slot. Swagger vs. Kofi Kingston for the US Title lost 353,000 more viewers and the main event of Miz vs. Alberto Del Rio vs. Rey Mysterio gained 736,000 viewers to bring the overrun to a 3.57.

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Update on Rumored Matches for Summerslam

WWE had planned Rey Mysterio vs. R-Truth and John Cena vs. Alberto Del Rio for this year's SummerSlam pay-per-view but with John Morrison's injury they had to go ahead and do Truth vs. Mysterio for Over the Limit. No word yet if Cena vs. Del Rio is still planned but with August being a few months away, things can and likely will change.

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Another Rumor About Y2J's WWE Return

Most people within WWE feel that Chris Jericho is trying to keep his WWE return date a secret and that it will be "several months" before he returns. However, with WWE suffering from talent depth issues right now, some believe Jericho will be back sooner than later to work a limited schedule around his other projects.

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Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Poll: What Does the Future Hold for The Undertaker?


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Vince McMahon Reportedly Furious With TNA Angle

Outspoken celebrity blogger Perez Hilton posted an article on www.FitPerez.com concerning Chyna's return to the squared circle.

"The Ninth Wonder of The World" debuted for TNA Wrestling at last Tuesday's iMPACT! taping in Orlando, Florida. The former WWE Diva was revealed as Kurt Angle's "mistress" and will be competing in a mixed tag team match with Kurt Angle against Jeff and Karen Jarrett at TNA Sacrifice this Sunday.

According to Hilton, Vince McMahon was considering placing Chyna in the WWE Hall of Fame, but has since dismissed the idea due to her association with the rival promotion. Hilton adds McMahon is furious with her decision to join TNA.

TMZ.com reported last week that Chyna has not signed a contract with TNA Wrestling as she is currently working on a "handshake deal" with a "very, very short leash."

Chyna is off to a good start so far as sources within TNA Wrestling say she exceeded expectations in regards to how she handled herself backstage at the event.

"Chyna was very well liked," said one TNA source. Another source added, "She was great." It was also noted that she has mellowed out.

Chyna made a second wrestling related appearance at last Saturday's "Legends of the Ring" convention in Monroe, New Jersey. She appeared healthy and in good spirits.

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JR Blog: John Morrison's Injury, Christian and the World Title, RAW

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

- Monday Night Raw was an interesting, two hour broadcast. Thought the Lawler stuff was the most compelling content of the night other than Cole invoking the Mother's Day dialog that I found to be uncomfortable. Having been to the rodeo a time or two, I realize that was obviously Cole's intention.

- WWE promoting Smackdown inside Raw was strategic and timely. Nice positioning. It also tells me that Christian losing the World Title wasn't any where near his 'professional, death knell' as some fans declared and that Christian just may be set for a significant period of time of his career especially considering the overall lack of depth within the business, as we speak.

- Good news on John Morrison's surgery to repair a neck issue. Not major or overly invasive and Morrison should be back in the ring in a month or two or so we assume. John would be best served to return later rather than sooner, make sure that he's 100%, at a minimum, not to mention it would be cool seeing him on Raw rehabbing himself back into ring shape which builds anticipation for his return. One suggestion to Morrison is to watch various Shawn Michaels bouts from different times of HBK's career to see how Shawn kept reinventing himself in route to becoming the best in the business.

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The Corre Headed to Work at FCW

WWE Intercontinental Champion Wade Barrett and Heath Slater will be appearing as a part of FCW's Summer Slamarama Tour on Wednesday, June 15th in Palm Bay, Florida at the Palm Bay Community Center.

There will be 8 matches with the FCW and NXT stars, a Divas Swimsuit Contest and a Superstar Karaoke Idol Contest. Fans will also receive a free FCW trading card packet with 20 cards inside.

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WWE Shocked at Response to Orton's Title Win

WWE officials have been surprised at the uproar of criticism from fans after Christian lost the World Heavyweight Title to Randy Orton. Officials weren’t expecting there to be such a backlash against Orton.

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Trevor Murdoch Works Dark Match Before RAW

Former WWE World Tag Team Champion Trevor Murdoch worked a dark match prior to tonight's Raw taping in Knoxville, Tennessee. He lost to Evan Bourne.

Murdoch was was released from his contract with WWE on July 3, 2008.

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Monday, May 09, 2011

John Morrison Out 4-6 Weeks After Surgery for Pinched Nerve



John Morrison will be sidelined between four and six weeks after undergoing surgery today to alleviate pain caused by a pinched nerve in his neck, according to WWE.com.

Dr. Joseph Moroon, a renowned neurosurgeon and medical director for WWE, performed the procedure. He created a small incision in the back of Morrison’s neck and moved the bone as well as the C5 and C6 discs from around the nerve route.

“This is considered minimally invasive surgery,” said Dr. Christopher Amann, WWE’s senior ringside physician. “Unlike other procedures, such as those undergone by John Cena and Edge, the typical recovery time is four to six weeks.”

WWE is attributing the injury to R-Truth, who ambushed Morrison prior to their scheduled match on Raw. The angle was set up in case Morrison needed surgery or time off. He was pulled from this weekend’s tour so the severity of his injuries could be examined.

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Steve Austin Confirmed for June 13th RAW

Steve Austin is being locally advertised for a special appearance on the 6/13 Monday Night RAW taping at the Nassau Coliseum in Long Island, NY.

The appearance is timed with the end of Tough Enough’s season. The TE finale is 6/6. The 6/13 RAW in Long Island is the first of two back to back 3 hour RAW shows.

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Undertaker Basically Retired at This Point



While it’s not official yet, the internal thought within WWE is that The Undertaker is basically retired, which explains Michelle McCool leaving to spend more time with him at home.

The Observer reports that The Undertaker is in far worse physical shape than is being let on. WWE officials aren’t ruling Taker out for WrestleMania 28 in 11 months but don’t expect him to work another match before then. People close to Taker have talked to him about retiring at WrestleMania 28 with his streak at 20-0.

The last time The Undertaker was around WWE was at the April 25th RAW in Raleigh, North Carolina, following by a FCW scouting event on May 4th.

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Saturday, May 07, 2011

Poll: Do You Agree with the WWE's Decision to Give Randy Orton the World Heavyweight Title?


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Friday, May 06, 2011

Matches for Tonight's SmackDown

Matches on tonight’s WWE SmackDown include Sheamus vs. Daniel Bryan, Ezekiel Jackson vs. Big Show, Layla vs. Alicia Fox, Tyson Kidd vs. Sin Cara and Randy Orton vs. Christian for the World Heavyweight Title.

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Vince’s Thoughts on WWE Talent Development

Vince McMahon was asked about talent development during the call and he said that The Rock’s return has made them more aware by having older names “brushing up” with younger talents like The Miz and Alberto Del Rio.

Vince feels that talent development is “going very well” and that Edge’s retirement won’t hurt their bottom line because they’re doing so well with developing new talents.

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Kelly Kelly on Being a Maxim Hot 100, Kharma

WWE RAW Diva Kelly Kelly spoke with WWE.com this week to talk about being included on Maxim’s Hot 100 list. Here’s what she said:

“This has always been a dream of mine. It’s something I wanted to strive to be on. When I got the announcement that I was going to be on it, I thought that this is such an honor and such a dream come true. I was so excited. I think I was more shocked than anything. And then I was so happy. It was one of the best days of my life, getting that news!”

Kelly also commented on Kharma with the following line: “It’ll probably give her even more ammo to come after me”, acknowledging that Kharma spared her an attack on RAW.

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Wednesday, May 04, 2011

Details On Michelle McCool’s Retirement & Laycool’s Breakup

According to sources, Michelle McCool had been planning to retire for quite some time. WWE had reportedly planned to break up LayCool going back several months, well before WrestleMania 27. When WWE signed Snooki to wrestle at WrestleMania, the LayCool breakup plans were temporarily put on hold. The angle was resumed about a month ago and the decision was made to have Extreme Rules be her last WWE match.

The general feeling regarding why McCool is retiring as a WWE performer is that she and her husband The Undertaker are looking to settle down and start a family in the near future.

She is leaving WWE on good terms and has a job waiting for her in the WWE offices if she wants it. She is also being considered as a coach for the second season of Tough Enough, should that be made official.

Michelle McCool tweeted the following on Wednesday afternoon:

“your love is overwhelming! In next couple days I’ll gather thoughts & give y’all a blog &/or vlog! Til then….still processing:)”

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SPOLIER: New WWE Heavyweight Champion



In Case you haven't heard, Randy Orton took home the World Heavyweight title on Smackdown in the TV tapings that will be shown on Friday night.

When news leaked online of the title change, fans bombarded the WWE twitter account with negative feedback. Styles responded to those angry fans with the following:

“When sending hate tweets to myself or @WWE because of @Christian4Peeps, @RandyOrton and the World Heavyweight Championship, please be PG ;)”

In related news, Randy Orton has been re-tweeting messages from angry fans writing on his own Twitter page. Orton retweeted this one:

“You won the title.Vince has no idea how much people are hating YOU on the Internet. I hope you continue to lose all your fans.”

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Stephanie McMahon Coming Back to TV?

WWE executive Stephanie McMahon was recently interviewed by Kevin Eck of the Baltimore Sun. Stephanie, who said her WWE office job entains being "responsible for booking and marketing of live events, creative writing programs, and for talent relations and talent brand management," was asked about whether she'd ever return to WWE television. She responded by saying, "If there is a demand for it, I will be there."

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Monday, May 02, 2011

Latest WWE Studios Release "That's What I Am" Scores with Audiences



By Matt Loede

Movies put out by WWE Studios don't normally have a lot of deep meaning to them, which is why the new Samuel Goldwyn drama "That's What I Am," is one that frankly shocks you.

There's no car blow ups, no jail breaks, and no wrestling in the movie. Instead, it's a movie that centers around an 8th grader in the 1960's, a time where tolerance and the accepting of others was not nearly as common place as it is today.

"That's What I Am" is about young Andy Nichol (Chase Ellison), a student in his last year of junior high. Nichol isn't the most popular kid in his school, but he's also for the most part accepted by almost all the groups in his junior high.


When Andy is assigned an English writing project by his favorite teacher, Mr. Simon, played very well by veteran actor Ed Harris, he’s partnered with the one boy in the school who day in and day out seems to take a beating - both physically and mentally - Stanley “Big G” Miner (Alexander Walters).

The “G” in Stanley's name stands for ginger. He's a tall, red head with large ears and finds himself being picked on by just about every kid, bully or not. Instead of defending himself from the beatings, Stanley takes the high road, knowing that those that picked and beat on him would eventually reap what they sowed.

Stanley and Andy quickly become pals, working on the project when the movie takes a turn when one of the school bullies, Carl Freel (Cameron Deane Stewart), gets suspended for beating up a girl who he says gave him cooties.

Mr.Simon comforts the young girl, and once he gets Carl suspended, the movie takes another twist when the bully spreads a rumor to his parents that the teacher is homosexual.

The Viper, Randy Orton, makes his acting debut as Carl's father, who works hard on trying to get Simon removed from teaching. He's not ready for an Academy Award by any means, but his character does a good enough job to earn kudos for not embarrassing himself in the movie.

Simon is faced with the tough decision on if he should allow the pressure of Carl's parents to get involved with his personal life, or if he should himself take the high road and step away from the profession he loves.

There's also some romance as well for young Andy, as he scores his first makeout with the hottest girl in the school - Mary Clear (Mia Rose Frampton, daughter of ‘70s rocker Peter Frampton). It's a fun part of the movie to see young Andy try to get enough nerve to ask Mary to go steady while trying to avoid her ex-boyfriend, another school bully in Ricky Brown.

The movie concludes with Stanley facing his peers at a talent show, Andy learning what tolerance and seeing how people are different are all about, and Mr.Simon making the biggest decision of his life.

It's a fun movie that shares some tough life lessons, teaches people of all ages to remember what's important in life, and also reminds us of the great life lesson of compassion.

The cast does a solid job in their parts, and while at times it's a little tough to see the bullies get their way, but in the end credits, you know as adults the road they are headed down.

4 Stars Out of 5

For Movie, DVD or Product reviews, contact Site Editor Matt Loede at Matt@NFLGridironGab.com

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Clay Busted Open at Extreme Rules

Brodus Clay was busted open at last night’s pay-per-view after being ran into a ladder by Christian. Sources report that lots of blood was gushing from Clay’s wound and he may have suffered a concussion but we can’t confirm that.

Jim Ross wrote the following on Twitter about Clay: “Brodus Clay’s a tough monster. Had staples put in his head but wants to compete now! This kid can be a star. Congrats Christian. Overdue.”

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McCool Claims Extreme Rules Was It for Her

Michelle McCool insists that she’s finished with WWE after last night’s match against Layla. She wrote on Twitter:

“Thx for the love guys….I know there will always be rumors,but that was it – real talk! @mslayel ….nothing but luv 4 u! Luv u all…nite!”

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The Rock Celebrates His Birthday Tonight on RAW

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson turns 39 years old today. Tonight on Monday Night Raw at the American Airlines Arena, “The Most Electrifying Man In All of Entertainment” celebrates his birthday with celebrities, the WWE fans and all of WWE’s Superstars and Divas.

As part of The Rock’s birthday celebration, for one full week starting today, he and WWE will donate all proceeds from “Team Bring It” shirts sold at WWEShop.com to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Today would have also marked as former WWE talent Ray “Big Boss Man” Traylor’s 48th birthday. He died of a heart attack at his home in Dallas, Georgia on September 22, 2004.

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Latest on Morrison Injury Following PPV

Melina wrote the following update on John Morrison after last night’s pay-per-view: “Ha ha ha! I love how everyone wants me to slap R-Truth! I love you guys! Jomo is ok. I get all worried! His neck is bothering him a bit……He’s got all these scrapes and welts. They had an amazing match… They went all out, but he’s fine everyone!!!”

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John Cena Announces Bin Laden Death Following Win at Extreme Rules

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Sunday, May 01, 2011

2011 WWE Extreme Rules Results and Thoughts



Results from the latest WWE PPV - Extreme Rules on May 1st in Tampa:

Triple Threat Cage Match for the WWE Title
John Morrison vs. John Cena vs. The Miz

Cena pins the Miz clean to win his 10th WWE Championship. R-Truth gets involved and attacks John Morrison during the match to extend their ongoing feud.

Ladder Match for the World Heavyweight Title
Christian vs. Alberto Del Rio

Christian climbs the ladder and wins his first Heavyweight Title with his pal Edge out to celebrate with him. Edge blows a horn on a car to distract Del Rio, who has now lost back to back Title matches on PPV.

Last Man Standing Match
CM Punk vs. Randy Orton

Opener of the night that kind of dragged on, as Orton finally wins after taking a long beating by Punk, just like at WM 26. Orton wins with a RKO from the top rope and Punk is unable to answer the 10 count.

Falls Count Anywhere Match
Cody Rhodes vs. Rey Mysterio

Match as one could have guessed went all over the arena, and in the end Mysterio gets the clean pin on Rhodes after he lost clean at Mania.

Country Whipping Match
Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler vs. Michael Cole and Jack Swagger

Cole rolls up and pins Ross for the win in a match that again had the comedy aspect of the night. Ross went into the match with a broken hand, and mostly whipped on Cole and Swagger. Sure this isn't the end of this never ending feud.

No DQ, No Countout, Loser Must Leave SmackDown
Layla vs. Michelle McCool

Layla says to fellow divas that she's sorry for her actions, and then goes out in a pretty good diva match and pins McCool clean. McCool then gets attacked in the live debut of Kharma, formerly known as Awesome Kong.

U.S. Championship Match (Tables Match)
Kofi Kingston vs. Sheamus

Kingston goes over clean to top Sheamus and win the US Title, this after losing the IC Belt to Wade Barrett close to WM 27. Good match that was thrown in at the last minute by Teddy Long.

WWE Tag Team Championship Lumberjack Match
Big Show & Kane def. Wade Barrett & Ezekiel Jackson

Show and Kane go over clean to keep the WWE straps. The Corre continues to have major issues, and Jackson and Barrett don't get along at the end of the match after Show and Kane won. May be the beginning of the end of the faction.

Thoughts on the Night: Better to above average PPV. Christian and Del Rio the best match, while the main with Cena winning the belt was somewhat of a letdown. Big pop for the debut of Kharma, and the Ross/Lawler/Cole feud is just getting worse and worse at this point. Company will rush to put together a PPV three weeks from now, with Miz and Cena going at it again, and likely Morrison and R-Truth, and yet another Cole-Lawler match of some sort. You'll also get another Del Rio and Christian, and it could also include a third party to change things up.

Best Match: Christian vs Albert Del Rio

Worst Match:
Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler vs. Michael Cole and Jack Swagger

Biggest Pop:
Christian Winning the belt

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Ross States His Right Hand is Broken Following Extreme Rules

Sunday night Michael Cole again got the better of his two fellow announces - Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler, as he rolled up and pinned Ross in their tag team strap match at "Extreme Rules."

After the match, WWE doctors confirmed to Ross that his right hand is broken, an injury that took place two weeks back on RAW when he punched Cole and busted up Cole's lip.

Here's the Tweet from Ross - "WWE doctor confirmed 2nite my right hand is broken. That's not an excuse 4 losing. As King says 1 can't grieve 4ever."

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Follow Us Tonight on Twitter for Extreme Rules!

Let's Talk Wrestling Will be Tweeting away all night at the following Twitter - @letswrestleblog

We will be tweeting our thoughts on the WWE PPV - WWE Extreme Rules! Get on board and follow us Today!!

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Poster for WWE's Capitol Punishment Out



Above is the official synopsis and promotional poster for WWE’s Capitol Punishment pay-per-view, which takes place on June 19th from Washington, DC:

“WWE storms the Nation’s Capitol in this inaugural pay-per-view event. Don’t miss John Cena, Randy Orton, Edge, The Miz, and all your favorite WWE Superstars at WWE Capitol Punishment live on pay-per-view.”

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Note From Friday's WWE Shareholders Meeting

Below are notes from WWE’s shareholders meeting on Friday:

* Marketing exec Michelle Wilson said the decision to drop “wrestling” from their official name is a part of their vision to expand. She noted that WWE executives had a meeting at the end of 2010 to come up with a new plan to improve, fix and grow WWE’s core business, while coming up with new ways to be more than a wrestling company. She added that WWE won’t take their eye off the ball of their heritage being wrestling but want to grow beyond that.

* USA Network is helping WWE pay for some of their new marketing campaigns and they have new sponsorship deals with companies like M&M Mars and Kmart as a way to “get the word out about WWE.”

* Triple H was introduced as the Senior Adviser to the Chairman’s Office. Vince McMahon stressed that Triple H is leading WWE’s new talent initiative that will look to bring in more international stars. Triple H is now in charge of “re-focusing on talent development.”

* Vince talked about new stars and said guys like Alberto Del Rio, Sin Cara and The Miz are on their way to being the “next John Cenas and The Rocks.”

* Vince noted that WWE might have other programs in the future with NBC Universal. They are also looking to “monetize in-ring live event content” through services like Amazon, Netflix and Google.

* WWE is still looking at launching their own TV network in 12-18 months. The network may be launched through normal cable/satellite systems or it may be part of a new model WWE is looking into with services like Amazon, Netflix and Google.

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Former Star's Work on WWE Tough Enough This Week

Rey Mysterio will be featured on this coming Monday's WWE Tough Enough. Also being featured will be Chuck Palumbo's custom motorcycles from his CP Kustoms company. We noted a few months back that Palumbo was at the Tough Enough mansion and now we know why. Palumbo has made bikes for Rey Mysterio in the past.

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WWE Inks Son of Vader - Jesse White

WWE has reportedly signed Jesse White to a developmental deal. Jesse is the son of former World Heavyweight Champion Vader and has been competing with his dad in Japan. White impressed officials after a recent tryout in Florida.

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What Khali and Mahal Said on SmackDown

Jinder Mahal made his WWE main roster debut on Friday's SmackDown in a segment with Ranjin Singh and The Great Khali, talking in Punjabi. Several readers sent word that Khali and Singh asked Mahal what he was doing on SmackDown. He replied that he was now on the roster and plans to be there for a long time. When Mahal walked off, Khali and Singh talked about how good it was to see him in WWE.

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Fast Five to Gross Over $83 Million This Weekend

Fast Five with The Rock is expected to make over $83 million this weekend. This would make it the best opening for a Fast & Furious film ever, the biggest opening for any film in April history and any film in 2011, according to Deadline.com.

Fast Five would also be the biggest opening weekend movie for any movie with The Rock in it. Deadline predicts the movie could make as much as $500 million worldwide, making it a huge success. The Rock has already been penciled in for the next movie in the Fast & Furious series.

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