Chris Jericho was recently interviewed by Canoe.cas SLAM! Wrestling about next weeks SmackDown 10-year anniversary special, teaming with the Big Show, his initial concern that WWE SmackDown would be a failure like WCW's second show (Thunder) became, his band Fozzy, Jim Ross' legacy and more. However, some of the more newsworthy quotes came when Jericho was talking about areas where WWE needs improvement.
When asked about how he thinks WWE's brand split is going so far and whether he thinks WWE has a deep enough roster to support three seperate shows, he said:
"I think it was a better idea then than it is now. There was a lot more talent when they did the brand extension. You could actually split the rosters in two; create some competition for ourselves, especially after WCW went under. Sometimes I wonder if we should still do that with talent roster the way that it is with a lot of younger guys. Its a good idea to give them a chance to shine, but for me the way right now, especially working Raw and Smackdown, it shows that some guys should do both shows because we need the diversity on both. But still, week in and week out, they still make it entertaining, build up a lot of Smackdown and they do it more on Raw as well, theres room for everyone on the show, some just have to kind of grab the brass ring and run with it. Im happy to be on both shows, I like contributing to both.
He also acknowledged that WWE is in need of some new faces in the top spots and says WWE is making the same mistakes that doomed WCW back in the late 90s. "They have to keep the wheels turning; they can't just base it on the same guys year in and year out. That's how business fails; that's how WCW failed. We have some young guys that are ready to grasp it and there are other guys that aren't. They're going to have to speed up the process a bit.
Jericho mentioned John Morrison, Legacy, Dolph Ziggler, Jack Swagger, Kofi Kingston. The Miz and Evan Bourne as guys who are improving and have a lot of upside potential. "Now is the time, we need these guys to step up and the thing is too, is you say step up, step up, step up, but some guys just aren't capable; they're not ready because they don't have the experience yet. But as long they are improving every week, and those are guys that I kind of see as being the next wave of the company, when my generation of guys is retired or not at the same level as we are now."
As noted earlier, Lacey Von Erich, daughter of former WWE Superstar "The Texas Tornado" Kerry Von Erich, has signed on with Total Nonstop Wrestling. She debuted at this past Tuesday's Impact taping (set to air next Thursday), assisting Velvet Sky and Madison Rayne. The third generation wrestler was strictly signed to replace Angelina Love in "The Beautiful People" faction. Even though Love doesn't have her employment visa, she is still living in Tampa while waiting for everything to be sorted out. The signing of Von Erich would seem to indicate that the company doesn't see Love's visa situation being resolved anytime soon.
While Von Erich most certainly has the looks necessary to be a member of "The Beautiful People," she is worlds apart from Love in terms of wrestling ability, experience and presence. Von Erich started her career in professional wrestling roughly two years ago and has wrestled sporadically throughout that time. It is believed that she has taken part in no more than twenty matches throughout career far, far less than anyone else on the roster. When she was in WWE's developmental camp in late 2007, she flamed out quickly and didn't receive high marks. In fact, she only lasted four months in the company before being let go, which is quite startling for a developmental wrestler. While Love (as Angel Williams) and Taylor Wilde (as Shantelle Taylor) were in WWE's developmental system and also let go the very same year, both moves were heavily criticized by those who had trained with them or had seen them on Deep South Wrestling television. On the other hand, there was no such criticism of Von Erich or Trenesha Biggers (a.k.a. Rhaka Khan) being let go.
Despite the addition of Von Erich to the "The Beautiful People," the future prospects of the group very much remains in question. Internally, the senior member of the group, Velvet Sky, is still seen as a liability in the ring despite several years of wrestling experience whereas Rayne has essentially been treated as a jobber/punching bag throughout her brief tenure in TNA. In fact, since joining the company in February, Rayne still has yet to score a single pinfall victory on television.
Regarding the company's mission to create new stars, TNA President Dixie Carter is currently telling employees that they may have to take a step backwards before they can move forward. As previously reported, company sources say Russo is "on a mission" to make lesser-known talent more popular than ever before. Dixie Carter has identified Matt Morgan, Hernandez and AJ Styles as her top favorites in the company.
Russo is not considered to be on thin ice due to the slumping ratings. Carter is said to realize that the TV networks are airing first run material again and that college football is running opposite Impact on Thursday nights. She believes that reason -- along with the increased presence of lesser-known talent on Impact -- is a fair explanation for the ratings slump.
While it may appear that Dixie is completely behind Russo, there was talk within TNA that she would be willing to fire him had her recent negotiations with Hulk Hogan led to him signing a contract. Hogan apparently still will not work with Russo, and one story making the rounds is that he wanted Kevin Sullivan and Kevin Nash to be the bookers if he was to join TNA. The deal obviously never went through and it appears that talks between the two sides are finished.
According to the Pro Wrestling Torch newsletter, Scott Steiner has been telling friends for a couple of months now that he doesnt expect to stick around TNA much longer. Steiner is close friends with Jeff Jarrett, and people within the company assume he wont stick around long if hes under the impression theres no chance of Jeff coming back. Those close to the situation say that Steiner, now 47, has been financially prepared to retire for several years. Those close to him say that Steiner still has the desire to perform despite the everyday pain he endures from years of injuries.
In January of this year, a report was published with the following quote from a fellow wrestler: If Scott has a decent, hard match where he takes five or ten bumps, he is feeling much more pain than the average beat up wrestler and he feels it for up to 24 hours after the match. His back is so bad, watching him go through a 12 step process to sit in a car seat is excruciating. During the Monday Night Wars era, he developed one of the worst backstage reputations in the business. Since then, TNA sources say Steiner has been a pleasure to work with. Even during his short WWE run prior to joining TNA, sources say he kept to himself and didnt cause any trouble like he did in WCW.
Intercontinental Champion John Morrison & Finlay def. Dolph Ziggler & Mike Knox Kane def. Slam Master J Batista def. Big Show (Disqualification) David Hart Smith def. JTG World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk def. Undertaker (Count-out)
TULSA, Okla. Despite World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk once again finding a way to beat The Undertaker, The Phenom will have his chance for revenge against The Straightedge Superstar at Hell in a Cell. And, as per SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long, The Deadmans Hells Gate submission hold is now fully legal.
World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk def. Undertaker by Count-out (WATCH | PHOTOS) As World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk battled Undertaker in the nights main event, the thoughts of what transpired at WWE Breaking Point were still fresh in the minds of everyone in the WWE Universe. As both Superstars waged war, the action spilled out onto the arena floor. It looked as if Punk was done for, when The Deadman prepared to slam him onto the announce table. But, The Straightedge Superstar managed to avoid being trounced and pushed Undertaker onto the announce table. As the ref neared the 10-count, Punk slithered back into the ring. The Deadman entered right on Punks tail, but it was not quick enough to avoid the refs final count of 10.
Hells Gate legalized (WATCH | PHOTOS) Last week, Undertaker took Teddy on a limo ride from hell. This week, the GM returned to SmackDown bound and gagged in a coffin carried into the arena by Undertakers druids! After Punk assisted Long in exiting the ominous enclosure, the shaken GM informed Punk he would face The Phenom at Hell in a Cell. And to Punks dismay, Teddy informed Punk that Undertakers Hells Gate submission hold is now fully legal. (Hell in a Cell Match preview)
Intercontinental Champion John Morrison & Finlay def. Dolph Ziggler & Mike Knox (PHOTOS | WATCH) For most of the match, Intercontinental Champion John Morrison could only watch as his partner, Finlay, did his best against big Mike Knox and No. 1 contender Dolph Ziggler. But, as soon as The Friday Night Delight got involved, the momentum began to shift. Then after Knox accidently crushed his own partner with a cross body Finlay capitalized on the distraction by smashing Knox in the back of his head with his trusty shillelagh. The Guru of Greatness took advantage, delivering Starship Pain to Knox.
WATCH: "The Palace of Wisdom"
Slam Master J defaced Teddys office (WATCH) In an effort to be down with Cryme Tyme and Eve, Slam Master J defaced Teddy Longs office with spray paint. The angry GM informed Slam Master J he would face a mystery opponent in a match later in the night.
Kane def. Slam Master J (PHOTOS | WATCH) Despite wanting to represent, Slam Master J stood no chance against Kane. The Big Red Monster destroyed his smaller opponent with a monstrous choke slam.
The Chairman signed Drew McIntyre (PHOTOS | WATCH) After reminding the WWE Universe of the significance of the upcoming Decade of SmackDown special next week, Mr. McMahon announced he signed young Superstar Drew McIntrye to the SmackDown roster. After McIntyre touted himself to the WWE Universe, he was welcomed by R-Truth, who attacked the Superstar Mr. McMahon dubbed a future World Heavyweight Champion.
Batista def. Big Show by Disqualification (PHOTOS | WATCH) Unified Tag Team Champion Big Show wanted to do what his partner, Chris Jericho, was unable to do last week defeat Batista. With lingering feelings from the loss, Jericho lurked at ringside, finally inserting himself in the action when it looked like Big Show might succumb to an ankle lock. But as soon as Jericho jumped in the ring to help, he was met with a brutal Spinebuster and subsequent ankle lock from The Animal. Adding insult to injury, Jerichos infraction ultimately caused Big Show to lose by disqualification.
David Hart Smith def. JTG (PHOTOS | WATCH) The various associates at ringside proved to be the deciding factor in this bout. First, Natalya saved a potential pinfall over DH smith by pulling his leg outside the ropes, causing the ref to stop the 3-count. Angered by the interference, Eve attacked Natalya. Next, it was Tyson Kidd who got involved, stunning JTG with a cheap kick to the head. With JTG dazed, Smith capitalized, dropping him with a massive suplex.
Biggest Eight-Man Tag Team Match in SmackDown history! Next week on the Decade of SmackDown celebration, it will be Undertaker, WWE Champion John Cena & DX vs. World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk, Randy Orton & The Legacy. (Decade of SmackDown coverage)
Batista announced Rey Mysterio as his partner for Hell in a Cell (WATCH) In an exclusive interview with Josh Mathews, The Animal dropped the bombshell news that the Master of the 619, Rey Mysterio, will be his partner to help take on Unified Tag Team Champions Big Show and Chris Jericho at Hell in a Cell. (Preview)
Xplosion Match Kiyoshi vs. Amazing Red Red wins after a running shooting star press when Kiyoshi misses a top rope moonsault.
Impact: Show of course opens with the M.E.M. Already in the ring. Kurt says most of the Mafia retained their dominance, but claims he didn't lose the title to AJ, he was screwed by Matt Morgan who "turned on him" during the match. Kurt announces himself vs. Morgan at BFG. Out comes World Elite arguing that THEY are the most dominant force noting that Eric saved Kurt from Hernandez and tonight Kurt will return the favor and help EY take Hernandez out. Booker takes the mic tearing down W.E., Angle stops Booker and says he is a man of Integrity and will team with Eric Young tonight.
Suicide vs. Pope (Street Fight) Pope attacks Suicide during his entrance. Few funny spots with of all things, a tambourine. Crown was totally into this one chanting out weapons for both men to use. Suicide wins after a DOA on a trash can. (Just a side note, Pope is WAY over in the Impact Zone)
Rhino vs. Brother Devon Devon attacks Rhino during his entrance. Match ends in a no contest. They both are busted open and brawl til security comes out and tries to separate the 2. Brother Ray comes in and orders to security to leave the ring. Ray screams at the two saying they should be fighting together. They stand in the middle of the ring and Ray raises both their hands and while Devon isn't looking Rhino gores Brother Ray.
Backstage Segment with Mick and JB talking about finding the person who ruined the Tweet and Tweak Picture in Mick's office. Someone is selling their trading card for $300, they think this person is their perp
Coming out is the NEW TNA Champion AJ Styles. Saying after 7 LONG years he is champion. The whole Impact Zone chants, "You deserve It." He dedicates the title to the Fans and Sting as well. AJ asks Sting to join him in the ring. Sting told its not about him its about him its about AJ. AJ recognizes Sting not pinning Kurt and going after Morgan so AJ can get the win. Sting gave AJ nothing and he earned the title. They go back and forth and AJ says he is going to do something for Sting so he gives Sting an opportunity to wrestle him for the World Title at Bound for Glory. They shake hands and its on.
Knockout Tag Titles: champions Sarita and Taylor Wilde vs. ODB and Tara Great back and forth match. Kong comes out and fights Tara to the back. Champs win with the spring board dropkick/german suplex combo. Tara comes out and tries to explain to ODB what happened and they get in each others faces and Tara knocks the flask out of ODB's hand.
Backstage JB and Mick interrogate Lethal Consequences about the picture. They don't think it was them but accuse Alex Shelley.
X Division Title Daniels vs. Homicide vs. Joe Lots of working together between Joe and Homicide before they turned on each other. Finish was Homicide tapping out to the rear choke. Funny note: Homicide went to get a chair out of the crowd and the person he got the chair from was none other than Vince Russo...oops, that probably won't make the air!
Eric Young (w/ Bashir and Kiyoshi on commentary) and Kurt Angle vs. Hernandez and Matt Morgan Morgan and Hernandez win after Angle pulls Young in front of a bicycle kick. Post match Bashir and Kiyoshi confront Angle and Angle lays them out. British Invasion comes down and stares Kurt down and then Booker and Steiner come out and stand at the top of the ramp. Kurt walks right past British Invasion to Steiner and Booker and the 3 leave together.
Backstage, Foley and JB with the Guns. Sabin says the duo would never make CSI because they were at ringside doing commentary when the picture was destroyed. The Guns point out the surveillance camera in Mick's office and they will review that.
Jethro Holiday vs. Bobby Lashley Lashley wins by submission and the 2 shake hands after the match.
Main Event Tag Title Match Steiner and Booker vs. Foley and Abyss Foley comes out with the surveillance tape and puts it with Taz and Mike Tenay. Foley double arm DDTs Abyss and then tags him in so Booker and Steiner get the win and retain. Foley gets a mic, Abyss destroyed the picture and Foley attacks Abyss and breaks it over his head. He blames him for stealing his bat, costing him the Legends Title, and destroying his most prized possession. JB comes out and tells Foley he's learned his lesson. Foley goes to leave with JB but grabs his barbed wire bat instead and goes back in the ring to destroy Abyss to close the show.
Primo def. Chris Masters Goldust def. William Regal by Disqualification Womens Champion Michelle McCool & Layla def. Melina & Maria Matt Hardy def. Kane by Disqualification
On this weeks WWE Superstars on WGN America, several Superstars ended up seeing red due to two disqualifications and two disappointing losses, resulting in frustration, and in some cases, carnage.
Dont know where to catch WWE Superstars? Find WGN America in your area. Can't see WWE Superstars on WGN America in your area? Stay with WWE.com for full results, photos and video clips of all the action.
Matt Hardy def. Kane by Disqualification (PHOTOS | WATCH) Everyones got a limit, and Kane passed his as Matt Hardy evaded everything he threw at him, frustrating The Big Red Monster to the point of ignoring the referee and getting himself disqualified. Hardy fought valiantly against Kane, showing no sign of backing down from his sadistic opponent, but that relentless aggression may have been what caused the massive Superstar to lose himself the match. When Hardy went for the Twist of Fate, Kane blocked it and instead dropped Hardy across the ropes, and despite the ring officials warnings, he repeated the act two more times prompting the referee to call for the bell. Theres a fury inside of the 7-footer that is always in danger of being unleashed, and unfortunately for Hardy, he was the one who ended up seeing red as Kane made his signature crimson lit exit.
Womens Champion Michelle McCool & Layla def. Melina & Maria (PHOTOS | WATCH) The Womens Champion was certainly less than pleased with her loss to Melina last week on SmackDown, but was most likely happier after Layla helped her achieve redemption with a tag team victory over Melina & Maria. SmackDowns Divas have shown time and time again that they mean business when they step into the ring, and the battle they waged on WWE Superstars was no different. In the end, McCool delivered a vicious boot to Marias face while the referee was attending to Melina at ringside, and when he turned around, all he saw was Layla pinning Maria for the win.
Goldust def. William Regal by Disqualification (PHOTOS | WATCH) After a back-and-forth match, the referee called for the bell disqualifying Regal when Ezekiel Jackson unsuccessfully attempted to take a cheap shot on Goldust behind the referees back. Following the match, Regals associates, Jackson and Vladimir Kozlov, entered the ring and hit a dual shoulderblock leaving The Bizarre One defenseless as the Blackpool, England native locked him into The Regal Stretch. Thankfully, ECW Champion Christian, Tommy Dreamer and Yoshi Tatsu rushed to Goldusts aid and cleared the ring of the ruthless roundtable before any serious damage could be done to the three-time Intercontinental Champion.
Primo def. Chris Masters (PHOTOS | WATCH) Though The Masterpiece may have thought he had victory in his grasp as he prepared to lock Primo into The Master Lock, it is a bad idea to underestimate a Superstar as resourceful as the San Juan native. Primo acted quickly, sliding out of The Master Lock attempt and rolling up Masters for the win. After using his strength to dominate much of the match, the powerful Superstar was caught off-guard with the loss and let his temper flair as he watched his opponent make his way to the back with his arms raised. Next time, The Masterpiece will know better than to let the high-flying Primo have any opening on which to capitalize.
As reported earlier, 24 year old American singer and actress Lauren Mayhew made her debut at Tuesday night's WWE Smackdown tapings from Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Mayhew has a Twitter account at Twitter.com/lcmayhew and posted a message about her first show:
"Had an awesome first night at WWE! Everyone is so gracious and talented! Whatta ride I'm in for."
Tune in to Friday night's Smackdown to see her in action
According to Mike Johnson of PWInsider.com, WWE recently contacted Vickie Guerrero about returning to Friday Night Smackdown next week as part of their 10th Anniversary Special.
As of today (9/23), Vickie has accepted the invitation and will be returning for the one-shot appearance.
For the first time since the infamous "Montreal Screwjob" in 1997, Bret Hart is said to be open to returning to World Wrestling Entertainment as a weekly storyline character.
Hart has had business talks with WWE in recent months, which played a part in the company rehashing "Montreal" at last week's Breaking Point pay-per-view in case he agrees to return.
While nothing yet has been agreed upon, nor should one expect anything to happen anytime soon, he is no longer against returning to WWE. In the past he has said he didn't see himself ever coming back as a character on television because he could no longer wrestle and didn't want to become some authority figure or manager.
WWE has had talks over the years regarding Hart returning to the company as a character. In fact, Vince McMahon told the creative team in 2006 that he was going to do a street fight with Hart on a pay-per-view. Of course, it never came to be and Hart at the time was saying that he was never going to wrestle again. Apparently, Hart was tentatively penciled in to team up with Shawn Michaels vs. Vince and Shane McMahon at Backlash 2006 instead of "God."
Hulkamania.com.au has a blurb on its main page confirming the following talent for the upcoming "Hulkamania" tour this November:
"Ric Flair has been coaxed out of retirement to battle Hulk Hogan himself in what may well be the ultimate grudge match. HULKAMANIA will also feature some of the top stars that compete all over the world including Brutus Beefcake, Aumaga, Kishi (former WWE star Rikishi), Black Pearl, Mr Ken Anderson, Shanon Moore, Heidenreich, King V, Godfather, Brian Knobs, Nasty Boys, Orlando Jordan, Vampire Warrior, Val Venise, Stephanie Pietz, Koa Marie Gabric, Jimmy Hart and more in THE ULTIMATE WRESTLING SPECTACULAR!"
WWE introduced their new announcer at last nights Smackdown tapings in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Lauren C. Mayhew, 24 years old, has made TV appearances on CSI and American Dreams before and also writes music. It was reported that Vince McMahon was very high on getting someone who could sing as well as announce. Its possible that Lauren may work the Smackdown brand while one of the veteran announcers go to RAW until shes ready to take over.
PREVIEW FOR THURSDAY'S HUGE BROADCAST ON SPIKE - A NEW ERA WITH NEW WORLD CHAMP AJ STYLES, PLUS BOBBY LASHLEY'S "iMPACT!" SINGLES DEBUT!
TNA Wrestling returns to Spike this Thursday night at 9/8c for two hours of Total Nonstop Action featuring the aftermath of Sunday''s "No Surrender" Pay-Per-View event as TNA begins the road to our biggest event of the year, "Bound For Glory" on Sunday, October 18 from California!
- It will be the beginning of a new era on "iMPACT!" as we will hear from NEW TNA World Heavyweight Champion - "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles! What will Styles have to say about his historic victory for the gold? Join us on Thursday night for the big celebration as the new champ arrives!
- After defeating Rhino on Sunday night at "No Surrender", "The Boss" Bobby Lashley will make his "iMPACT!" singles debut this Thursday night!
- The Main Event of "iMPACT!" will feature Scott Steiner and Booker T of The Main Event Mafia defending the TNA World Tag Team Championship against the tandem of Mick Foley and Abyss!
- Also on the broadcast, new TNA Women's Tag Team Champions Taylor Wilde and Sarita will have their first title defense as they put the gold on the line against the dominant alliance of Women's Champion ODB and Tara!
- Plus, after their war at Sunday's Pay-Per-View, "The Pope" D'Angeloe Dinero will take on Suicide in a Street Fight
All this and much more on Thursday's TNA "iMPACT!" on Spike starting at 9/8c, plus news on "Bound For Glory"
Samoa Joe and Daniels have both been campaigning on Twitter for TNA management to sign Colt Cabana to a TNA contract. Cabana worked a tryout match prior to last night's Impact tapings in Orlando, Florida against Puma.
Speaking of Daniels, he is currently working banged up.
Yoshi Tatsu def. Paul Burchill Ezekiel Jackson & Vladimir Kozlov def. local competitors ECW Champion Christian def. Zack Ryder (ECW Title Match)
TULSA, Okla. Zack Ryder has finally been silenced at least for one night and it took the ECW Champion to do it. Christian retained the Extreme gold Tuesday in a hard-fought battle against ECWs brashest Superstar, Ryder. But after the match, William Regal made an ominous return and called out the ECW Champion.
ECW Champion Christian def. Zack Ryder (PHOTOS | WATCH) Captain Charisma could not be stopped by The Zack Attack. With plenty of Peeps cheering him on in the BOK Center, Christian successfully defended the ECW Championship against Zack Ryder. Despite Ryders strong efforts, he could not woo the ECW Title away from the Captain. After a devastating Killswitch, Christian pinned the cocky, young Superstar for the win on ECW on Syfy.
Christians ECW Championship celebration was quickly soured when William Regal interrupted to say the nights title defense was a farce. Sooner or later Im going to be the No. 1 contender, The British Brawler said. So its only a matter of time before I become the ECW Christian promptly silenced Regal, attacking him with the ECW Championship, sending a message that hes not about to back down.
Who will Christian have to defend his ECW Championship against next? Will Regal fulfill his wish to become No. 1 contender again?
The Abraham Washington Show with Sheamus and Shelton Benjamin (PHOTOS | WATCH) ECWs critically-acclaimed The Abraham Washington Show brought two special guests to the Sooner State Tuesday night. The host-with-the-most, Washington, poked fun at his first guest, Sheamus pale complexion, while his sidekick, WWE Hall of Famer Tony Atlas, joked that the Irishman sounded like the Lucky Charms leprechaun. This only fueled The Celtic Warriors frustration toward the talk shows next guest, Shelton Benjamin.
Sheamus, who was angry about the outcome of his tag team match with Benjamin two weeks ago, as well as The Gold Standards elimination of him during last weeks Battle Royal, said that where he comes from, Its an eye for an eye. Benjamin responded that in America, a team win is still a win, and continued the shows laugh-fest at Sheamus expense. On the TitanTron, Sheamus family tree appeared, depicting some of his red-haired relatives, such as Ronald McDonald, Carrot Top and Bozo the Clown. The seething Celtic Warrior then attacked Benjamin, turning The Abraham Washington Show into a brawl, which had to be broken up by WWE security.
When will these two finally meet in one-on-one action to settle their score? And when will The Abraham Washington not end with a showdown?
Yoshi Tatsu def. Paul Burchill (PHOTOS | WATCH) One of ECWs newest Superstars, Yoshi Tatsu, earned another Extreme victory this week. The Japanese Superstar showed off his incredible in-ring skills and high-kicked his way to a win against Paul Burchill as The Rippers sinister sister, Katie Lea, watched from ringside. Tatsu is on a singles winning streak. Whats next for this impressive, young Superstar?
After his loss, Burchill retreated to the locker room area where Gregory Helms waited, hoping to interview Katie Lea. As soon as he spotted his sister talking to Helms, an irate Burchill attacked him. For weeks Burchill has been obsessed with trying to prove his theory that Helms is The Hurricane. Will the angry Englishman confirm his suspicions? Will Helms retaliate?
Ezekiel Jackson & Vladimir Kozlov def. local competitors (PHOTOS | WATCH) With William Regal in their corner, Ezekiel Jackson & Vladimir Kozlov easily muscled their way to a victory on ECW. This unstoppable duo bulldozed their way through two outmatched local competitors, then celebrated with their associate, Regal, in the aftermath. Who will dare step in their path next? And will this pair try to help Regal weasel his way to another ECW Championship Match?
WWE.com has an excerpt from an interview they did with Big Show for Novembers WWE Magazine.
One question that was asked, keeping in mind the recent backstage incident he was involved in,
We cant imagine anyone has ever picked a fight with you outside of the ring.
Actually, its the opposite. People try to fight me all the time. Theyll get some liquid courage flowing through their veins, and theyll say they can take me. Ill respond with, Where? Out to dinner? or something funny that diffuses the situation. I try to laugh it off. Someone might antagonize me, but it will never escalate.
When asked about the other big men in WWE, Big Show said the following:
Mark Henry is one of the strongest people I have ever been in the ring with he can tear your arms out of their sockets. And Kane is big and strong, too, but hes a different kind of big. And Khali? Well, hes just a tall guy who can do a lot of push-ups.
Former WWE Superstar Scotty Goldman (a.k.a. Colt Cabana) will be wrestling in a dark match at tonight's Impact taping in Orlando. Jeremy Borash wrote the following on his Twitter account this afternoon:
"Colt Cabana will take on Puma in a non-televised match in Orlando tonight."
Sylvain Grenier was recently on the Main Event radio show, here are the highlights. On Rene Dupree: Rene has never been too organized in his life. Nothing has changed - I even stepped on my own pride and called him for my last show...I hope things are doing well for him but I don't think we will ever work together again On Developing His Skills: I was just talking with Chris Jericho at the Pay-Per-View, and I said man I did my career backwards. I did my first match in front of 20,000 people and my last match was in front of 250 people. And he said, Sly, if you can entertain 20 people than you can entertain 20,000. So I did a year in Montreal, now I'm going to be wrestling in New Brunswick, autograph signings in the States, and I'm going to be wrestling more in the states. Without TV time limits on the indy circuit, I was able to do whatever I want. I was able try stuff - sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn't. So now if I go back to the WWE, I'll be ready for the new challenge On A WWE Return: I talked with them at Breaking Point, I had a good conversation with the people in charge, and it's a matter of time until we could talk some more. I have a lot of things going on in Montreal though - I'm on RDS, I'm on TV every week, I have my own promotion now, I have my wrestling school happening. So I'm really busy but if WWE needs me I'll be there for them. I brought one of my students and they really liked him and offered him a contract.
Epstein issued the following letter regarding his troubling situation with Wright:
TO: All Media, fans, talent bookers, promoters, and web site administrators
FROM: Scott O. Epstein,Talent agent/publicist, Publicity Management Services Booker of Champions since 1974)
RE: Scheduled appearances with Marty Wright, pka The Boogie Man
Several weeks ago Marty Wright asked me to be his exclusive booking agent. As such, and in good faith, I arranged for him to be at many independent venues during the weeks and months ahead. Promoters have sent deposits for his appearances. These have been placed in an escrow account by me. In addition I am aware that some promoters have already purchased non-refundable and non-transferable plane tickets for him.
Unfortunately, I can no longer contact Mr. Wright. My phone calls, text messages and attempts to contact him through intermediaries have all failed to garner a response. I am at a loss to understand where Marty is.
It is beyond unfortunate that I have been unable to contact Marty at this stage of the game. I cant help but be concerned about his well being since I cant imagine anyone simply disappearing without regard to their business obligations. Although the better part of my nature is hanging on to the hope that Marty will re-appear to honor the commitments he had me make on his behalf, I must also face the possibility that he may disappoint his fans, and cost promoters money they cant recoup. These lost funds would include travel plans, advertising and etc. Of course the deposits held in escrow can be returned upon request at any time. My word is my bond and I enjoy an untarnished reputation. It hurts me to know Im now in the middle of what could end up being a pretty crappy situation.
I must make those who have hired Marty, as well as the fans that want to see him know that the possibility exists that Marty may be a no-show. I still have faith that he is OK and that he will surface, on time, ready to work and please his fans by his first engagement on September 25th. To those who have hired him I want to suggest that you hang in there a couple more days to see if he contacts me or gets word to me.
If I could talk to Marty right this minute Id say Im praying for you, brother. I pray that youre OK. I also pray that you know the hardest thing to re-capture once it is lost is trust. In this business if you arent trusted, you will not get the work you need nor will you maintain the celebrity status youve earned.
Triple H vs. Cody Rhodes (No contest) The Miz def. Evan Bourne Beth Phoenix def. Divas Champion Mickie James United States Champion Kofi Kingston vs. Jack Swagger (No contest) Cedric the Entertainer def. Chavo Guerrero Randy Orton & Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show def. WWE Champion John Cena, MVP & Mark Henry
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - Let him entertain you. And that's just what Hollywood heavyweight Cedric the Entertainer did when he rolled up as Raw's special guest host. The actor, director and round mound of get-down rocked the WWE Universe by arranging a few amazing matches, including one featuring Cedric himself!
Randy Orton & Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show def. WWE Champion John Cena, MVP & Mark Henry (PHOTOS | WATCH) The stakes were plenty high before any of the six Superstars set foot in the ring. Randy Orton & Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show were prepared to clash with WWE Champion John Cena, MVP & Mark Henry. As he made his way to the ring, however, Jericho upped the ante. The arrogant Superstar informed Orton that the loser of the match either Orton or Cena would be forced to compete in a 3-on-1 Gauntlet Match next week; Orton would face Cena, MVP & Henry, while Cena must compete against Orton, Jericho & Show.
As the match got underway, each team seemed bent on proving dominance, especially the two men with the most at stake. As a result, Orton was not about to relinquish any advantage he may acquire so close to WWE Hell in a Cell. With that, The Viper struck, administering an RKO to Henry to claim victory for his team and ensuring that next Monday night, Cena will be staring into the blinding headlights of three runaway tractor trailers each barreling furiously in his direction.
Raw bids farewell to ring announcer and WWE Diva Lilian Garcia (PHOTOS) After 10 years with WWE, the beautiful Lilian Garcia thanked the WWE Universe and informed everyone that Monday was her final night greeting fans, belting out the national anthem and announcing the start of matches. WWE.com wishes Lilian all the best.
Rev. Al Sharpton to guest host next Monday nights Raw Hallelujah! The controversial and always entertaining Rev. Al Sharpton is scheduled to act as guest host next week when Monday Night Raw touches down in Albany, N.Y.
Cedric the Entertainer def. Chavo Guerrero (PHOTOS | WATCH) The humiliation continues. This time, rather than Hornswoggle, it was Cedric the Entertainer who was responsible for disgracing the proud Mexican Warrior, Chavo Guerrero. Cedric approached the ring in a luchador outfit complete with mask. During the match, Cedric climbed out of the ring and fled underneath the squared circle. When he reappeared, Cedric seemed significantly larger than before. Special guest referee Santino Marella appeared clueless to the size shift while the sizeable Cedric then hammered Chavo before hopping back under the ring only to emerge as a significantly smaller masked Cedric you might even say he was the size of Hornswoggle. Ced-swoggle then hit Chavo with a Tadpole Splash before crawling back under the ring. Then the real Cedric popped up and quickly covered the hapless Chavo for the win.
United States Champion Kofi Kingston vs. Jack Swagger (ended in a No Contest) (PHOTOS | WATCH) United States Champion Kofi Kingston may need a Lo-Jack for his title. While the Jamaican Superstar battled Jack Swagger, that awesome annoyance, The Miz, once again attempted to pinch the gold. Unlike last week, however, The All-American American put the kibosh on Mizs plans and ran off with the title himself. While this match ended with no victor, the three will meet again in a Triple Threat Match at WWE Hell in a Cell.
Beth Phoenix def. Divas Champion Mickie James (PHOTOS | WATCH) Mickie James cant seem to wipe off the bulls-eye on her back. The Divas Champion faced off against Beth Phoenix as the No. 1 contender to her title, Alicia Fox, looked on from ringside. Fox wouldnt stay put for long. The leggy lovely managed to distract the Divas Champion long enough for The Glamazon to take advantage and notch the victory. With the champion dazed, Fox then pummeled Mickie before exiting the ring bearing a self-satisfied grin.
During a WWE Hell in a Cell contract signing, Randy Orton & Unified Tag Team Champs Chris Jericho & Big Show confronted WWE Champ John Cena, MVP & Mark Henry; the two sides will face off in main event (PHOTOS | WATCH) Some men resort to sly, underhanded and treacherous tricks to achieve their goals. Other men prepare themselves for just such deceit. Such was the case when Randy Orton and WWE Champion John Cena met in the ring to sign the contracts for their WWE Hell in a Cell Match. After emphasizing the fact that Cena has never competed in a Hell in a Cell bout, Orton ushered out Unified Tag Team Champs Chris Jericho & Big Show, who promptly surrounded The Champ. Cena, however, had backup.
MVP & Mark Henry rolled up to show their allegiance to Cena. As the six glared intently at one another, guest host Cedric the Entertainer informed them that despite a no physicality clause in the pairs contract, the comedian was going to waive the rule and arrange a match between the two groups at the end of the evening.
The Miz def. Evan Bourne (PHOTOS | WATCH) The Miz was forced to taste a few drops of his own medicine and the egomaniac didnt much care for it. After stealing Kofi Kingstons United States Championship last week, Miz, while being interviewed, found himself on the receiving end of an attack by Kingston, who rightly took back his title. Just minutes after the just desserts were served, however, a still smarting Miz proved his resilience by defeating high-flyer Evan Bourne.
Chavo Guerrero challenged Raw guest host Cedric the Entertainer (PHOTOS | WATCH) Cedric the Entertainer has long since earned his moniker. The comedian and star of the new DVD, All-Star Comedy Jam, and director of a movie you can help name by clicking here, showed his chops when Santino Marella tried to audition. While The Milan Miracle bombed, Chavo Guerrero left Cedric in stitches until the comedian finally realized that Guerrero hadnt been losing to Hornswoggle on purpose for the last two months. So incensed was the so-called Mexican Warrior that he challenged Cedric. With Marella accepting on his behalf, Cedric would face Guerrero one-on-one.
Triple H vs. Cody Rhodes (ended in a No Contest) (PHOTOS | WATCH) Be careful what you wish for. Thats one lesson among many for The Legacy, who received a dream match-up against DX at WWE Breaking Point and pulled off the biggest upset of their young career. Now, however, Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase must face Shawn Michaels & Triple H again at WWE Hell in a Cell inside Satans Structure.
For his part, Michaels was the first man to win a Hell in a Cell Match while The Game has won more of the sadistic bouts than any other Superstar. Before the teams square off in two weeks, though, The Legacy made quite a statement. Triple H faced Rhodes on Raw as their respective partners looked on. The match devolved, though, when Rhodes & DiBiase slammed Michaels outside of the ring before attacking Triple H with a chair inside the ring. When the duo left The Game immobile in the center of the ring, they submitted one more piece of evidence that they could indeed be the future of WWE.
Website MediaTakeOut.com is reporting that WWE has shown interest in signing Kanye West, who made headlines at last weekend's MTV VMAs event, as a wrestler.
According to the report, West was offered close to 10 million dollars to show up at three events two television appearances and one PPV.
The article says that West would only have to do "light wrestling" and he is seriously considering the offer.
We should note that the MediaTakeOut.com website has posted "rumors" in the past that weren't true so keep that in mind.
A new Jim Cornette audio commentary has been posted, which you can check out at http://whosslammingwho.podomatic.com/ The audio update is roughly 35-minutes long, and Cornette discusses his departure from TNA. Here are the highlights:
Terry Taylor, Dixie Carter and everyone at TNA felt that he wasn't 100% with creative which is why it would hamper him doing his job. Cornette agrees that he was not 100% behind Vince Russo, and knows that they would never completely agree. Cornette and Russo did have talks over the phone about creative.
Dixie Carter told him that she appreciates all of his contributions and that the door is always open for him to return if he's 100% with the creative direction, they'd love to have him back in the future. Cornette again said that he would likely never be 10% behind Russo, but that his conversation with Carter ended on a happy note.
Cornette says that Carter wants to win, and that she feels it is important for everyone to be on the same page. The ending of his run was professional, there was no big fight, no screaming. TNA simply picked Russo over him, and to him that is not a big deal. He tolerated Russo, as was asked of him, but again, was not behind him 100%. He was on TNA's team, and while there is no animosity with Russo, again, he just cannot follow him 100%.
Cornette again says that there was no big blow up as the Sun falsely reported. TNA had to make the best decision for TNA, and since he couldn't follow the creative direction completely, he was off of the team.
When he found out that Ed Ferrara was coming to the No Surrender PPV his feelings were a bit hurt, but it is what it is. TNA had the right to make the decisions that they did. They have a creative plan and are putting people in pace that will follow and execute that.
Cornette said that he would absolutely return to TNA. WWE lied to him and screwed him, and they did it for personal reasons. What TNA did was not personal, it was business. He has no ill will towards TNA, and says that there need to be that alternative. He again says that he cannot say he is 100% behind Russo and Ferrara, and that he tried to fix the way Russo does some things, but it just wasn't meant to be. He does admit that Russo is a lot easier to get along with these days.
When asked, he says that he will not return to WWE, but that he may work with OVW again. He wishes TNA all the best, and says that if things change (Russo and Ferrara) and they want him back, that he would be interested.
As reported, Lacey Von Erich has been signed by TNA. She was under contract to Wrestleicious for another 45-days, but Jimmy Hart got them to release her so that she could take the TNA deal.
With Angelina Love gone, she is scheduled to be a part of The Beautiful People with Madison Rayne and Velvet Sky
- It kicked off with the finals of the Knockouts Women's Tag Team Title tournament, with Taylor Wilde & Sarita defeating The Beautiful People of Velvet Sky and Madison Rayne to become the first titleholders! Taylor got the pin on Madison, which obviously enraged Velvet Sky!
- Hernandez defeated Eric Young of the World Elite after Young refused to defend himself. After a quick beating, Hernandez beat Young with the Border Toss. Young is still trying to convince Hernandez to join World Elite and wouldn't fight the TNA big man.
- Samoa Joe of The Main Event Mafia defeated Daniels by submission to retain the TNA X Division Championship. In the end,after missing his Best Moonsault Ever, Daniels went for the Angel's Wings, but Joe escaped the hold and locked Daniels in a choke. With no escape, Daniels had no choice but to tap out.
- "The Pope" D'Angelo Dinero defeated Suicide in a Falls Count Anywhere Match after a wild bout that featured both superstars using tables! Suicide attempted a huge leg drop from the entrance set, but crashed and burned through a table, allowing Dinero to get the win.
- ODB defeated Cody Deaner to win the TNA Knockout Women's Championship
- TNA Legends Champion Kevin Nash of The Main Event Mafia defeated Abyss with a taser shot after miscommunication between Mick Foley and Abyss. After the match, Dr. Stevie told Nash to finish Abyss, but Nash instead Powerbombed Stevie and took the $50,000
- Beer Money won the Lethal Lockdown Tag Team Match, defeating The British Invasion, Team 3D and TNA World Tag Team Champions Scott Steiner & Booker T. To win the bout, Beer Money gave Doug Williams the DWI after they had knocked out Brutus Magnus with a beer bottle on top of the cage.
- "The Boss" Bobby Lashley beat "The War Machine" Rhino! Rhino nearly had Lashley defeated after he hit the GORE, but when Rhino went for a second GORE, Lashley nailed him with a knockout shot that floored "The War Machine", allowing Lashley to get the pin!
- "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles defeated Kurt Angle, Sting, Matt Morgan and Hernandez in the Main Event to become the NEW TNA World Heavyweight Champion! Before the bout, Hernandez came out to cash in his World Title shot briefcase and he was added to the main event! However, he was later attacked and given a piledriver on the entrance ramp by Eric Young, leading to EMTs tending to the big man. In the end, Sting took out Matt Morgan so AJ could hit a big splash on Kurt Angle to get the pin and win the gold! After the huge victory, Daniels came out to celebrate with The Phenomenal One as a new era begins in TNA Wrestling!
The Montreal Wrestling Federation issued the following statement through Facebook:
Tomassino was present at Breaking Point for a tryout with WWE last Sunday. He was then asked to be present during RAW and Smackdown in Toronto and Hamilton. The MWF has been informed that Tomassino received a developmental contract from WWE and he will soon join the FCW (Florida Championship Wrestling) school with WWE.
Ik ben Boon Kenneth, en gebruik soms ook wel de schuilnaam Sting.
Ik ben een man en woon in Dworp (Belgie) en mijn beroep is .
Ik ben geboren op 05/06/1989 en ben nu dus 34 jaar jong.
Mijn hobby's zijn: Worstelen en films.
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