Sweet Papi Sanchez defeats Kaleb O'Neil W/ Byron Saxton Kaval defeats Paul Lloyd Angela defeats Alicia Fox Tyler Recks defeats Ryback Yoshitatsu defeats Jon Cutler Eric Escobar defeats DH Smith for the FCW Championship
WWE Tag Team Champions Carlito & Primo def. World Tag Team Champions The Miz & John Morrison (WWE Tag Team Championship Match) Vladimir Kozlov def. Undertaker Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy (No Contest) Chavo Guerrero def. United States Champion Shelton Benjamin (Non-title) Big Show def. John Cena
PORTLAND, Ore. As The Road to WrestleMania continues, sibling rivalry and surprise victories of epic proportions were abound as one of SmackDowns favorite sons returned to get his gold back, only to come face-to-face with a very big problem.
Big Show def. John Cena (WATCH | PHOTOS) After John Cena warned World Heavyweight Champion Edge on Monday Night Raw that he wanted his rematch and was going to follow the Rated-R Superstar anywhere he tried to hide, the former SmackDown Superstar returned to Friday nights to force the issue. But, SmackDown General Manager Vickie Guerrero once again threw a monkey wrench in Cenas plans, declaring that instead of her husband, the former World Champion would have to face the mighty Big Show. (PHOTOS)
Later that night, after showing tremendous resilience in a grueling battle of unrelenting punishment administered by The Worlds Largest Athlete, Cena allowed himself to be distracted by the emerging Ultimate Opportunist. As he turned his back for a few critical seconds, Big Show blasted him with a devastating knockout punch and an authoritative chokeslam for the victory.
Jeff Hardy vs. Matt Hardy (No Contest) (WATCH | PHOTOS) One week ago, Matt Hardy had interrupted his brother, Jeff, hitting the Twist of Fate before challenging him to a Brother vs. Brother Match this week. But, it was not meant to be, at least not on this weeks SmackDown. After Matt was announced, Jeff emerged in his street clothes and unsuccessfully appealed to the elder Hardys reason. Despite Matts persistent verbal attacks and two humiliating slaps to his face, Jeff refused to engage his own flesh and blood. Instead, he walked away from the ring without further comment, leaving Matt alone with his unrelenting fury.
Vladimir Kozlov def. Undertaker (WATCH | PHOTOS) In a stunning turn of events, Vladimir Kozlov - undefeated in singles competition - pinned the legendary Phenom. As Undertaker was balancing himself on the top rope to set up Deadman Walking, the Moscow Mauler suddenly countered, executing a devastating powerslam that led to the three-count heard round the world. This Monday on Raw, Kozlov and Shawn Michaels will square off to settle once and for all who has earned the right to try and break the undefeated WrestleMania streak of The Deadman at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania.
Chavo Guerrero def. United States Champion Shelton Benjamin (Non-title) (PHOTOS) This week, the complexity of the United States Championship picture continued to intensify. It all started when Montel Vontavious Porter carried his recent winning streak down to ringside to join Jim Ross and Tazz at the announce table. Throughout Benjamins match with Guerrero, the Gold Standard seemed more interested in MVP than his opponent. He soon acted on this, hurling Guerrero into the Ballin Superstar outside the ring. But, Benjamins obsession soon backfired when the self-proclaimed Mexican Warrior finally took advantage of his foes distraction and executed a quick counter for the win. Before the smoke could clear, the Franchise Playa entered the ring and hit the Drive-By Kick on the dazed and confused Benjamin.
WWE Tag Team Champions Carlito & Primo def. World Tag Team Champions The Miz & John Morrison (WWE Tag Team Championship Match) (WATCH | PHOTOS) Following their non-title victory over Carlito & Primo two weeks ago, Miz & Morrison were granted an opportunity at the WWE Tag Team Championships. But, after Primo knocked down Miz outside the ring, Carlito thwarted the Dirt Shirt duos fevered attempt to become the undisputed tag team champions, drilling Morrison with a sudden Backstabber. Not only did the WWE Tag Team Champions successfully defend their coveted titles, but they also left with their favorite Divas, the Bella Twins.
In an interview with Alex Marvez, former WWE wrestler Kenn Doane (a.k.a. Kenny Dykstra) talks about being unable to find his niche in the company and life following his November release.
Doane tried his best to adapt to management's vision for the Dykstra character, but things never seemed to click.
"Whichever way I stepped, I always had someone telling me, 'No, do it like this.' It was hard," Doane said.
He also admits that his character "had no range." Also a result, he was often left in a secondary role to either Victoria or Johnny Nitro and mired in low-level feuds against the likes of Nick "Eugene" Dinsmore and Val Venis.
Having done little with the company last year (he didn't return to television from an injury at the start of the year until the week before SummerSlam), his release from the company wasn't too devastating for him. While his 90-day no-compete clause recently expired, he hasn't received many offers to wrestle.
"I like doing this," Doane said. "It sucks right now that I'm not."[/
There has been a lot of talk in WWE about having Rey Mysterio jump back to Smackdown during this year's annual Draft. Mysterio was given a lot of the credit for WWE's ratings being high in the Hispanic demographic while he was on Smackdown. The logic for moving Mysterio to RAW was that he would have some fresh opponents. However, Mysterio hasn't made much of a difference in the Hispanic viewership on RAW. Another reason to draft Mysterio is that he has been stuck in a mid-card position on RAW and would be closer to the top of the card on Smackdown.
According to sources, Triple H is almost a lock to be moving back to RAW since it is expected that his feud with Orton will continue after Wrestlemania. If HHH gets drafted, Smackdown would need a big star to fill his void, possibly Batista.
It is also being speculated that Edge and Chris Jericho could switch sides and Jim Ross could be brought back to RAW, although that might not happen since WWE is still looking for a younger announcer to be the future voice of the show.
TNA star Shark Boy learned while he was on the road for TNA that his home in Ohio had burned down. Our deepest condolences go out to him and his family during this difficult time.
Shark Boy's website issued the following statement in regard to the fire and merchandise that had been ordered:
TNA wrestler Shark Boy lost all of his possessions in a fire at his Ohio home last week. The fire occurred while he was on the road working at the TNA tapings in Orlando and among the items lost were his entire supply of Shark Boy merchandise. As a result, outstanding merchandise orders will be refunded and no new orders can be accepted at this time.
- If you noticed, Rey Mysterio was not on Raw last week. He was also missing from WWE's tour of South America last week -- which he is always brought on regardless of brand affiliation. It has just been disclosed that he will not be appearing on this weekend's set of Northeast house shows either despite being advertised.
While the reason for Mysterio's absence from a number of events has yet to be confirmed, the belief among those spoken to is that he is dealing with a personal issue that needs to be addressed back home in San Diego (where he resides). He is not injured, nor has he been suspended.
Mysterio was also scheduled to do an autograph signing at the Westfield Sunrise Mall in Massapequa, New York tomorrow, but he has been replaced by Chris Jericho. WWE.com has yet to update their appearances section regarding the change.
TNA Impact on Spike TV Taped in Orlando, Fla. Source: Prowrestling.net
[Q1] The show opened with a recap of last week's empty arena match between Kurt Angle and Sting... Earlier in the day, Mike Tenay and Don West spoke from inside an empty Impact Zone. Tenay boasted about the company's record television rating for last week's show. They discussed the empty arena match and said we'd hear from the Mafia during the show...
The opening montage aired... The announcers hyped another Beer Money challenge, and the four-way ladder match...
1. Angelina Love and Velvet Sky (w/Cute Kip) defeated Madison Rayne and Taylor Wilde in 4:45. Rayne was holding her own until she went to tag her partner, who was bickering with Kip at ringside. Taylor eventually tagged in, but Rayne eventually slapped her across the face. Sky hit the Backstabber on Sky for the win...
Jeremy Borash stood greeted the Main Event Mafia (minus Sting) as they arrived at the building, but they blew him off by walking right past him... [C]
[Q2] Inside the MEM locker room, Borash asked Angle whether he would face Sting at the pay-per-view. Angle said they would make a statement at the top of the hour. There was a knock at the door and two police officers entered the room and asked to speak to "Mr. Huffman." Booker T acknowledged that was him. Angle laughed and acted as if he didn't know Booker's real last name is Huffman. Booker said he would talk to the men outside...
2. Beer Money Inc. (w/Jacqueline) defeated The Rock-n-Rave Infection in an Off The Wagon Challenge to retain the TNA Tag Titles in 4:25. The challengers either win the titles or the person who is pinned or submitted must leave TNA forever. Jimmy Rave and Lance Rock were the babyfaces. Rave hit some flashy offense early and played to the live crowd to get them on the side of his team.
Rock picked up Roode in reverse crucifix position (?) and flipped him over into a slam. A lousy description of a cool move. Moments later, Storm hit Rock with one of the tag title belts to set up the finish. Rock lost, meaning he's gone from TNA...
Sting arrived at the building and Borash was there to greet him. Sting walked right by him without saying a word. The camera picked up a shot of a man watching Sting in the background... [C]
Backstage, Borash led the police to his dressing room, which had police tape blocking the door. They went inside the trashed room, where Booker complained about damaged artifacts. Sharmell tried to calm him down...
[Q3] At ringside, the announcers recapped footage of the Booker vs. A.J. Styles feud... West plugged TNA live events and then hyped the Lockdown pay-per-view...
Abyss was in Dr. Stevie's office for another round of therapy. Abyss said bleeding reminds him of Christmas morning and finally getting the Jonas Brothers CD he'd been coveting. Stevie told him they'd meet again next week at the same time... [C]
A "For The Record" graphic thanked fans for making last week's show the most watched in TNA history...
Powell's POV: TNA has its own version of the WWE "Did You Know" videos...
A bunch of redneck fans were featured in videos for the win a date with ODB contest...
Booker followed the police back to their car and pressured them to do, well, whatever it is he wanted them to do. After the police drove away, A.J. Styles showed up and tried to attack Booker, but the Mafia security jumped in and pulled him away. Booker snuck in a couple of cheap shots. TNA security showed up to help break it up... [C]
Backstage, Lauren asked Scott Steiner what would happen when Mike Tenay interviewed Sting and Kurt Angle in the ring. Steiner hit on Lauren and then complained about A.J. Styles attacking Booker again. He swore a lot and said he's looking for Samoa Joe.
Suddenly, Joe entered the room and put a big blade against Steiner's throat. Joe told Steiner not to make a sound. He said he could attack him at any time. Joe pulled the blade back and shoved Steiner aside before leaving the room. "That was a knife!" Steiner said...
Back at ringside, Tenay asked, "How about Samoa Joe's Nation of Violence?" They sent it back to Borash...
Borash interviewed Jeff Jarrett, who said no team ever remains united in wrestling because it's an individual sport. He predicted the demise of the Main Event Mafia and said business would go back to usual...
[Q4] [C] The latest edition of Hardcore History with Mick Foley aired. He said his favorite match for many years was the 1996 In Your House match with Shawn Michaels. He said it changed in 2004. He recalled teaming with Rock at WrestleMania and said the match was only okay. He said he got a second chance when he faced Randy Orton in April, 2004. He recalled suffering a concussion that night and said he threw up all over Edmonton...
Tenay introduced the Main Event Mafia. They group walked out together. Tenay asked whether there would be a match between Sting and Angle at the Destination X pay-per-view. Kevin Nash took the mic and said he's been deemed spokesman of the Mafia. Nash said things weren't great, but they had a week to patch up their differences and now they're a family.
Tenay said he doesn't feel that vibe. Nash got in Tenay's face and ask who he works for. "I work for TNA," Tenay replied. Nash said he works for Jeff Jarrett. Tenay bickered with Nash. Powerbomb, please? Nash turned his attention to Sting and Angle, who were standing across the ring from one another. He said they don't work for Jarrett and Foley. Nash yelled while he asked Angle and Sting to respect one another and, most importantly, respect the family.
Jeff Jarrett's music played and he came to the ring with a mic in his hand. Jarrett said he's known Sting for 20 years and knows he's not buying "this crap for one minute." Jarrett said Sting is supposed to be all about honor, respect, and integrity. He asked Sting where the integrity was in having one of his brothers spit in his face.
[Q5] Jarrett got a "Let Them Fight" chant going from the live crowd. He said he was booking Sting vs. Angle for the TNA Title for the pay-per-view. Booker took the mic and asked who died and made Jarrett the law in TNA. "What exactly did you found?" Booker asked. "A company of nobodies and a bunch of wannabes?"
Booker said Jarrett started the company out of a flea market, and said the rumor was that Jarrett painted the building himself. Booker threatened to kick Jarrett's ass. Steiner and Nash restrained him. Jarrett said Booker wouldn't do a damn thing and said he could kick his ass all over the ring. Jarrett said it's true that he painted the TNA Asylum (old Nashville venue).
"Look at us now," Jarrett said while looking around the Impact Zone. He said the people have become his family and he's going to give his family what they want - a match between Angle and Sting. He said he'd be back with the contracts later in the show... [C]
At ringside, Tenay said there would be a contract signing for Sting vs. Angle for later in the show. He credited Jeff Jarrett with making the match happen. West accused him of going into ass-kiss mode. Tenay asked what he was talking about. West pushed on and said he should go backstage and kiss Sting's ass too.
West stood up and took the house mic. He said they've been friends for years and called every Impact together. He said there was a meeting recently regarding West's future as the color commentator. He said Tenay was at the meeting and didn't say a word for or against him. He said the people put Tenay on a pedestal. No we don't.
West said Tenay wouldn't pick sides. "You're nothing but a selfish prick," West said. He added that he doesn't know what the future holds for him, but their friendship will never be the same. "You can take this microphone and shove it up his ass," West said before storming off as the show went to commercial... [C]
[Q6] After the break, Tenay had the producer replay highlights of West's comments...
Sojourner Bolt and Rhaka Khan walked to the ring. Tenay apologized for being distracted. Bolt and Khan cut a short promo about their new issues with Awesome Kong and Raisha Saeed, which apparently just materialized...
3. Sojourner Bolt and Rhaka Khan defeated Awesome Kong and Raisha Saeed in 5:10. Tenay worked solo. Bolt played to the fans, so apparently she and Khan are the babyfaces in this match. After a bunch of horrible wrestling, Bolt rolled up Saeed for the three count. Afterward, Kong powerbombed Bolt onto Khan... [C]
Split screen shots aired of Angle (inside the Mafia dressing room) and Sting (inside a separate room)...
[Q7] A Rough Cuts segment focussed on the Ultimate X match. Alex Shelley said he's afraid of heights and is terrified of being any higher than the top rope. Hernandez said he was afraid of heights, but not anymore. Chris Sabin recalled Frankie Kazarian practicing before the first Ultimate X and having the four pillars move inward. They decided to use a different setup 10 minutes before show time...
A Hoobastank video mixed with Ultimate X highlights aired...
4. Alex Shelley defeated Chris Sabin and Jay Lethal and Consequences Creed in a four-way ladder match to retain the X Division Title. The Guns worked together for the first two minutes leading into the commercial break. [C]
[Q8] Late in the match, Shelley hit a jawbreaker on Lethal off the ladder. He followed up with Sliced Bread off the ladder on Lethal. Shelley climbed the ladder and retrieved the belt to win the match.
As Shelley was celebrating, Suicide swung into him. Suicide beat up everyone. He picked up the X Division Title and looked at it. He made a gun symbol and pointed it at his head. The lights went out and Suicide disappeared...
Backstage, Jarrett picked up a guitar and started to leave his office. Tenay said it was "thanks to this man" that Sting and Angle would be facing off at the PPV. Separate shots aired of Angle and Sting... [C]
Jeff Jarrett walked to the ring with a guitar in one hand and a contract in the other. THANK YOU, JEFF!!! Sigh. Jarrett entered the ring with the contract and introduced Kurt Angle, who came to the ring with Kevin Nash, Scott Steiner, Booker T, Sharmell, and Mafia security.
Nash took the mic and said it doesn't have to be this way. He said Booker already told him there wouldn't be a match. "And now I'm telling you, and you don't want to screw with me," Nash said. "This match ain't gonna happen." Jarrett asked Angle who the boos was. He said Booker was doing all the talking earlier, and now Nash is doing all the talking.
Jarrett said he's not a movie buff, but he's seen his share of gangster movies. He said the leader usually does the talking. He listed a series of fictional mob bosses and said the difference between them and Angle is that they had balls, but Kurt doesn't. Kurt took the contract from Jeff and signed it.
Angle took the contract clipboard and slammed it over Jarrett's head. Angle attacked Jarrett until Mick Foley ran out. The Mafia all backed off. Angle hit Foley from behind and applied the ankle lock.
Sting jogged out in a Mafia sweatshirt and carrying a baseball bat. Sting hit Angle from behind with the bat. He helped Jarrett and Foley to their feet while the other Mafia members stood by at ringside. Sting signed the contract while a disappointed Nash and other Mafia members looked on. Sting dropped the contract clipboard onto Angle, who was layed out in the middle of the ring.
Tenay said they've answered several questions during the show, but the burning question is how the Mafia will survive with Angle facing Sting at the pay-per-view...
Newcomer Madison Rayne will be turning heel on this week's episode of TNA Impact.
Tomorrow night's show will feature a Knockouts tag team match between The Beautiful People and Taylor Wilde & Madison Rayne. Sometime during the match, Rayne slaps Wilde and and abandons her.
It is unknown at this point whether Rayne will be an official member of The Beautiful People, but at the very least she will be associated with them for at least the next few weeks.
In the biggest surprise of them, Don West turns on longtime broadcast partner Mike Tenay on this week's show.
West announced that TNA had a meeting earlier in the week with him about his future and that Tenay never spoke up for West, saying that Tenay was a selfish prick, that their friendship will never be the same and Tenay can stick it.
The PPV formerly known as One Night Stand, which had undergone a name change to Extreme Rules, has now had another name change. It will now be called, "Night of Extreme".
- Apparently WWE has chosen to hang onto Sim Snuka because he is among the many names being considered for an announcing position on the new WWE Superstars on WGN show.
The February 23, 2009 edition of WWE Monday Night RAW pulled a final 4.1 cable rating. The first hour of the show did a 3.93 while the second hour increased to a 4.27 for the climax of the Randy Orton/Triple H angle.
This is seen as a good number compared to what WWE has been doing lately, and management must be happy with the increase in ratings leading up to WrestleMania.
This week in 2008, RAW pulled a 3.5 rating for the last episode of February. In 2007 for this week the show pulled a 4.3, and the number stayed around the 4.0 mark dating back to 2003 for the last RAW episode in February of that year. You have to look all the way back to 2002 to see the numbers increase, when it got a 4.7. Looking back further, it got a 5.1 in 2002, a whopping 6.5 in 2000, a 6.3 in 1999, and a 3.2 in 1998 before falling back into the 2s for 97, 96, and 95.
We have added several photos of Shawn Daivari's (TNA 's Sheik Bashir) recent wedding. TNA's Rhino & ODB, former WWE Talent Relations Executive, Mike Bucci (WWE's Simon Dean), former WWE stars Scotty Goldman (Colt Cabana), Gene Snitsky, Molly Holly and WWE stars Carlito & Mr. Kennedy were some of the guests from Daivari's wedding. Click here to view photos of Shawn Daivari's wedding featuring Mr. Kennedy, Carlito, Rhino and others.
Thanks to reader Shaunie O for sending in these live news items from last night's WWE RAW from Nashville:
-- For those who couldn't see it from our view, which was solid, it looked like Noble landed on the top of his head when he took Mike Knox's finisher. He was moving his arms and legs the whole time, which is good, but I doubt he'll be at Mania now.
-- It was obvious the Steamboat bit with Jericho was meant to take place in the ring, but couldn't b/c they had to move Noble. Micheal Cole had to hual you-know-what at the last minute to get up to the ramp for the bit.
-- The dark match main event saw Johon Cena defeat Edge by disqualifcation after the Big Show interfered. Cena then cleared Show out of the ring and hit his finisher on Edge to send the crowd home happy.
-- Top Heat: Edge and Jericho were hot, but Orton and Vickie Guerrero got the most BY FAR.
-- Top Cheers: Cena (Of course) and Christian, but HBK got the best reception of the night.
Vince McMahon was recently described by one backstage source as being a grumpy old man these days. Vince has been very hard to approach lately and has sometimes harshly shot down, and in some cases publicly humiliated, individuals who pitched ideas to him.
Some interpret this behavior as Vince trying to prove to people that hes not old and weak, and is still sharp. There is a large portion of the company who feels that Vince is in fact too old and, more importantly than his age, is out of touch with the audience. Triple H is seen as perhaps not the most ideal replacement, but the most realistic replacement for Vince at the head of the company. The consensus backstage, even among his former enemies, is that HHH is in touch with what the fans want. One source was quoted as saying (roughly) that he has his finger on the pulse of the fans right now.
A MESSAGE FROM TNA WRESTLING PRESIDENT DIXIE CARTER
I want to take this opportunity to personally thank all of you for making last Thursday's edition of TNA iMPACT!" the most-watched broadcast in our company's history.
Last October, we invited wrestling fans around the world to "Cross The Line" and sample our product, whether it was watching "iMPACT!", ordering a Pay-Per-View, experiencing a live show or even visiting our website. We asked that if you enjoyed it, you would tell a friend about us. Well, you have responded and we are so grateful.
Since that time, TNA has also accomplished several major milestones including our debut in Hi-Def on SpikeTV, our first live television special from Las Vegas, our biggest event of the year with Bound For Glory and our hugely successful tour of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.
In 2009, we will celebrate seven years in business. The little company who no one gave a chance has grown by leaps and bounds because of you, our fans. We will continue to work hard to earn your support. Several big things are already being planned including April's brutal, all-steel cage pay-per-view, Lockdown, in Philadelphia, new superstars, new programming, a reinvigorated focus on the X Division, expansion of our online digital world and so much more.
Once again, all thanks to you. You are loyal and passionate and we dont take this opportunity you have given us for granted.
Mark Henry def. DJ Gabriel Tyson Kidd def. local competitor Tommy Dreamer def. Paul Burchill ECW Champion Jack Swagger def. Christian (ECW Title Match)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. Music City was playing the tune of The All-American American on Tuesday night as Jack Swagger remained ECW Champion after defeating Christian on ECW on Sci Fi. (WATCH | PHOTOS)
Captain Charisma made a victorious return to the Land of the Extreme, defeating Swagger twice in singles action and again in a tag team match. But when it came time to defend his ECW Title, The All-American American picked up an important victory against Christian when it counted most.
Through a hard-fought battle against the experienced Christian, the arrogant, young Superstar proved again why hes the new face of the Extreme franchise. Christians injured left shoulder and arm were his downfall as Swagger hit him with the gutwrench powerbomb and pinned him for the win. It was Swaggers third title defense, and again he came up victorious.
Will Christian challenge The All-American American again for the ECW Title? Will any Extreme Superstar be able to stop the Swagger of the ECW Champion?
Mark Henry def. DJ Gabriel (PHOTOS) With WWE Hall of Famer Tony Atlas in his corner, Mark Henry put an end to DJ Gabriels undefeated streak on Tuesdays ECW on Sci Fi. The Worlds Strongest Man dominated the dancing Superstar throughout most of the match. Despite some fancy footwork by Gabriel, who was cheered on by Alicia Fox at ringside, Henry delivered a devastating Worlds Strongest Slam to the ECW newcomer and received the victory. How will Gabriel recover from his first loss? Who will be the next target for the Worlds Strongest Man?
Tyson Kidd def. local competitor (PHOTOS) Tyson Kidd continued his winning streak on ECW on Sci Fi picking up his third victory in a row against a local competitor. With Natalya in his corner, Kidd once again showed off the skills he learned from Bret Hit Man Hart in the Hart Family Dungeon in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Tyson pinned his opponent after springboarding himself over the top rope into a flying elbow drop. Kidd is making a strong impression in the Land of the Extreme. What will the new ECW Superstar do next? And what's the story behind Kidd's eccentric hair? (Read more on Kidd's hair | New photos of Tyson and Natalya)
Tommy Dreamer def. Paul Burchill (WATCH | PHOTOS) Determined to prove he still belongs in ECW, Tommy Dreamer defeated Paul Burchill this week, but with a little help from Boogeyman. After Dreamer missed a baseball slide when Katie Lea repositioned her brother on the ropes, the Diva was pulled under the ring by the Superstar from the Bottomless Pit. While Paul Burchill was distracted by the attack on his sister, Dreamer hit the British Superstar with a DDT and pinned him for the victory. Dreamer has vowed to walk away from WWE if he doesnt win the ECW Championship before his contract expires in June. What will the ECW Original do to become the king of Extreme? Why is Boogeyman focusing his efforts on Katie Lea?
As announced this evening, WWE has parted ways with Raw Superstar Manu (real name Afa Anoa'i, Jr.). Regarding his release from the company - which was said to not be much of a surprise - officials were unhappy with his ring work, as well as his overall appearance, which led to his removal from Legacy. Manu had not been seen in several weeks, although the beginning of the end actually started on the last episode of Raw in 2008.
After Randy Orton grew tired of Legacy losing matches, he scheduled a test for each member on the December 29, 2008 episode of Raw; however, Manu failed to pass his test after he lost to the ECW Champion, Matt Hardy, and was kicked out as his former companions Rhodes and Sim Snuka turned their backs on him. Later, Snuka also got kicked out of the group, and the two quickly reunited. They planned to get their revenge on Orton and Rhodes on the January 12, 2009 episode of Raw, with the aid of the returning Ted DiBiase, but DiBiase betrayed them, and joined Legacy with Orton and Rhodes. Manu never appeared in a WWE ring again.
Following a tryout at Deep South Wrestling, WWE signed Anoa'i to a developmental contract in October 2006. Under the name Afa Jr., Anoa'i spent nearly two years in developmental. His stay in developmental was highlighted by a FCW Heavyweight Championship win on October 16, 2007. Afa Jr. defeated Harry "DH" Smith by countout (he was touring with WWE in UK at the time), to become the new FCW Heavyweight Champion. Afa Jr. would lose the belt to TJ Wilson on December 1, 2007 in a ladder match.
Anoa'i actually made his WWE television debut on November 19, 2007 at a Heat taping. Under the name Mai Tai Anoa'i, he lost to "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan.
On March 20, 2008, Anoa'i was suspended by WWE for violating the company's Wellness Policy. Reportedly, he attempted to cheat on a WWE drug test through the aid of a prosthetic penis. He was caught and as a result, suspended. Soon after, company officials adopted a policy for all talent to drop their pants to their ankles in front of the assigned doctor when taking a urine sample.
At last year's Unforgiven pay-per-view, Anoa'i made his debut on the full-time roster under the name "Manu". He aligned himself with Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase, by attacking Cryme Tyme after their World Tag Team Championship match. Later that night, the three of them helped Randy Orton attack the World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk and Kofi Kingston.
Anoa'i, Jr. is a member of the legendary Anoa'i wrestling family. He is the son of WWE Hall of Famer Afa and brother of former Headshrinkers member Samu. Umaga's mother is the sister of Afa, which explains his relation to the SmackDown star.
John Cena def. Chavo Guerrero Mike Knox def. Jamie Noble Shawn Michaels def. JBL Womens Champion Melina & Cryme Tyme def. Glamarella & Dolph Ziggler Intercontinental Champion CM Punk def. World Tag Team Champions The Miz & John Morrison in a Triple Threat Money in the Bank Qualifying Match
NASHVILLE, Tenn. After Randy Ortons brutal attack on Shane and Stephanie McMahon last week, and Stephanies husband WWE Champion Triple Hs intense interview on SmackDown, the WWE Universe was on the edge of their seats when Raw came to Nashville. Though he was willing to speak on the subject on Friday night, The Game arrived on Raw in no mood for, well games, as he proceeded to attack Orton as well as his two associates, chasing them from the arena with a flurry of attacks from his trusty sledgehammer.
WWE Champion Triple H arrived on Raw, attacked Randy Orton and his Legacy and chased them away from the arena (PHOTOS | WATCH) Randy Orton, holding Triple Hs signature weapon, a sledgehammer, took to the ring, flanked by Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase. The 2009 Royal Rumble winner denied culpability for his actions against the Chairman, Shane and Stephanie McMahon, but his excuses were interrupted by The Game's entrance. The WWE Champion carried a sledgehammer with him as he made his way down to the ring, but was stopped on the apron by Orton, who suggested they both drop their weapons to settle the issue like men.
Both Superstars discarded their sledgehammers, but to Ortons surprise, living up to his moniker, The Cerebral Assassin, Triple H revealed a second sledgehammer which had been taped to his back. The Legacy members attempted to get away from the enraged WWE Champion, who managed to deal out a crushing blow to Rhodes as Orton and DiBiase ran to the locker room area. The two third-generation Superstars locked themselves in Ortons room, which provided a few moments of protection as The Game broke the door open. Triple H managed to hit DiBiase, and barely missed Orton as the two escaped to their waiting car and made their getaway with Cody Rhodes.
John Cena def. Chavo Guerrero (PHOTOS | WATCH) John Cena came to the ring hoping to receive his rematch against Edge for the World Heavyweight Title, or at the very least given the opportunity to cut the massive Big Show down to size. However, Vickie Guerrero revealed that in accordance with what she announced earlier in the night, Cena would indeed be facing a member of her family: Chavo Guerrero. In spite of the self-proclaimed Mexican Warriors legendary lineage, he wasnt able to stand up to the intense, relentless assault of the former World Heavyweight Champion, who forced Chavo to tap with the STF.
Ricky The Dragon Steamboat to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame; Chris Jericho insulted and attacked the WWE Legend (PHOTOS | WATCH) Another member of the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2009 was announced on Raw: Ricky The Dragon Steamboat. But as The Dragon was attempting to express his excitement at being honored, he was interrupted by Chris Jericho, who in recent weeks has made a point of denigrating WWE Legends. The arrogant Superstar spat venom at Steamboat, belittling his legendary career, and his current position within WWE. Not content to allow Jericho to act with such disrespect, the future Hall of Famer turned the tables on the first-ever Undisputed Champion, calling Jericho a hypocrite. For his honesty, Ricky Steamboat was attacked by the nefarious Superstar, who quickly made his exit afterward.
Mike Knox def. Jamie Noble (PHOTOS) On the previous Raw, Jamie Noble announced to the WWE Universe his desire to compete in the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, but was quickly shut down by Kane, who defeated the tenacious Superstar in a brutal 15 seconds. Believing that if he lasts longer than 15 seconds, hell certainly be competing on The Grandest Stage of Them All, Noble took on Mike Knox. The pitbull-like Superstar fared better this week, but unfortunately only marginally so, as the Desert Destroyer still managed to defeat him.
Shawn Michaels def. JBL; HBK faces Vladimir Kozlov next week on Raw for the right to face Undertaker at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania (PHOTOS | WATCH) JBL and his former employee, Shawn Michaels, went into their match on Monday night believing that the winner would have an opportunity to end Undertakers historic 16-0 WrestleMania winning streak. Accordingly, the two ring warriors took part in a hard-fought match that Michaels eventually won by way of some Sweet Chin Music. However, during the match, it was announced that the winner of the bout would have to next face SmackDowns undefeated Vladimir Kozlov for the right to face The Phenom on The Grandest Stage of Them All. As HBK celebrated following the match, the Moscow Mauler himself made his way down to the ring, where he dropped his future opponent, giving Michaels a taste of what could be in store for him when he faces Kozlov on the next Raw.
Womens Champion Melina & Cryme Tyme def. Glamarella & Dolph Ziggler (PHOTOS) In a rare Six-Person Mixed Tag Team Match, Womens Champion Melina joined forces with Cryme Tyme to take on the team of Beth Phoenix & Santino Marella along with their partner for the night, Dolph Ziggler. In spite of the awesome strength of The Glamazon and Zigglers aggressive in-ring style, Cryme Tyme's Shad prevailed, picking up the pin over Marella.
Randy Orton and his Legacy arrived and barricaded themselves in Ortons locker room Earlier in the night, a car carrying Randy Orton arrived in Nashville. His two associates Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase exited first and took a cautious look around before gesturing to the venomous Superstar that the coast was clear. Later, Todd Grisham interviewed Ortons Legacy, who proceeded to defend their leaders actions of the past few weeks, in which he has incapacitated three members of the McMahon family. The two also warned Stephanie McMahons husband, Triple H that Orton would be ready for him if and when he appears on Raw.
Intercontinental Champion CM Punk def. World Tag Team Champions The Miz & John Morrison in a Triple Threat Money in the Bank Qualifying Match (PHOTOS | WATCH) Though World Tag Team Champions The Miz & John Morrison are used to teaming up on opponents in the ring, the two also had one another to worry about as they competed in a Triple Threat Match against Intercontinental Champion CM Punk. There was a lot on the line for each of the Superstars as the winner would earn himself a slot in the Money in the Bank Match at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania. The Straightedge Champion made good use of his opponents on-again off-again rivalry to pin Morrison, moving one step closer to winning Money in the Bank for the second year in a row.
John Cena to face either Interim Raw General Manager Vickie Guerreros friend or her family on Raw (PHOTOS) Monday Night Raw was opened by a face familiar to SmackDown fans: Vickie Guerrero. The Friday night brand's shrill General Manager broke the distressing news, that in the McMahons absence, she will be serving as Raws interim General Manager. Guerrero was then interrupted by John Cena, who clearly stated his desire to cash in his World Heavyweight Title rematch clause on Raw. Before the GM could respond, her husband World Heavyweight Champion Edge came down to the ring, accompanied by Big Show. After some harsh words between the former and current champions, Vickie acquiesced, making a match for John Cena, either against her friend, implying Big Show, or her family, implying the Master Manipulator himself.
World Wrestling Entertainment has come to terms on the release of Raw Superstar Manu as of February 23, 2009. WWE wishes Manu the best in all future endeavors.
According to some fan reports from tonight's Raw in Nashville, Jamie Noble was taken from the ring on a stretcher following his brief match with Mike Knox. While it was not shown during the broadcast, Noble was loaded onto the stretcher and taken from the ring while the Chris Jericho/Ricky Steamboat segment was taking place on stage. Stay tuned for an update on the story.
As most of you know, I have challenged Jeff Hardy to a one on one match for Smackdown this week, on Friday, February 27th. If Jeff Hardy has any courage, if he is truly a man-he will step into the ring with me on Smackdown and we can settle this once and for all. Let me prove to everyone what they have known all along, even if they refused to admit it.. When it comes down to Matt Hardy and Jeff Hardy, I am the superior performer and wrestler. Period. Ill make this statement into a fact on Friday-if youre enough of a man to show up Jeff. This will be a Smackdown that you do not want to miss, I can promise you that.
Elijah Burke talks about his WWE run Posted by Randy Gordon on 02/23/2009 at 11:55 AM
Elijah Burke Interview recap By: Bob Colling
In Your Head Online Radios interview with Elijah Burke. Hosted by Jack E. Jones and Oneinchbiceps ! To hear the full interview head on over to www.InYourHeadOnline.com
Elijah Burke makes it known he is going by the Pope of professional wrestling Elijah Burke. Burke says that he has been busy because he has to keep his followers happy.
Burke brings up that he competed on the WWC Abdullah the Butcher's retirement show, which he mentions has to be at least the third time. Burke says that was his first time competing in Puerto Rico.
Burke puts over a guy he teamed up with over on WWC, Armando Estrada. Burke says you can guess who carried that match. That was a jab at his friend Estrada.
Burke brings up being booked in a Extreme Rules match against ECW originals Sabu and Steve Corino. Burke was frightened at the sight of barbed wire tables and other various weapons. Burke enjoyed the match.
A caller asks if Burke will be returning to OVW. Burke says that anytime he is around the area he will help out the guys. Burke puts over OVW as his home. He also puts over Danny Davis, the owner of OVW. The moment has to be right for Burke to return to OVW, it has to be right, it has to mean something.
Burke says that OVW isnt going through a hard time because of the company, but because of the economy. Everyone has been suffering from the state of the economy. Burke makes it known that Davis opted out of the television deal, and not lose his television deal.
Jack brings up the report that Burke went to OVW and after his match told people to follow that up. That was according to Dave Meltzer. Burke doesnt know where that story came from. Burke says the truth is he went to OVW, Burke said he told the boys to have fun and remember the situation they are all in. Burke says comedy matches arent going to get people in the seat, but rather good wrestling does. Burke says that the whole situation may have been taking out of context.
A caller asks about Burkes boxing career and his only loss. Burke says that the record is a compiled list of boxing and tough man boxing. Burke says the lost came from continuing a beating after a referee called for the bell, and nearly beating the referee up.
Burke says the only purpose for New Breed was for the introduction of the young wrestlers apart of the company. Burke believes that the New Breed certainly was cut off way too short.
Burke says I cried like a little baby. when asked about his Wrestlemania appearance. He says that there are plenty of wrestlers who had competed much longer than him, and didnt compete at Wrestle Mania. Burke says that Undertaker actually saw him and pulled him towards him to let it all out.
Burke says that he is NWA through and through. Starrcade was the reason why he got involved in wrestling. He was a huge Dusty Rhodes fan.
Burke puts over Rob Van Dam as a big part in what I got regarding a push. If he where to write a book, he would have to RVD a chapter or damn near close to one. Burke puts RVD over a great guy.
Burke says that when he was brought up with Sylvester Terkay that Terkay was suppose to be the star. Burke mentions that he was offered a spot in the Spirit Squad, but declined.
Burke prefers WWE ropes compared to OVW ropes. The WWE ropes are easy to bounce off of.
Burke says that TNA is definetly an option.
Burke mentions how that his last match with WWE was on June 6th, 2008 up until his release in November. He did nothing throughout that time. Burke says the release was a relief, so that he can go out and work now!
Burke puts over Ken Doane as a guy who didnt get the chance to shine in the WWE. Burke puts over Doanes athletic ability. Burke mentions a match between HHH/Doane. Burke says that people consider the match a squash when HHH delivered a clothesline and pedigree. Not a squash in his book.
Burke says his dream match would be against Ric Flair. He says he never got the chance to work with Taker, HHH or HBK. He puts over Kane as the best big man in the business. He believes a good match against MVP. Burke believes he and Punk could have a great Wrestle Mania match with Punk or MVP.
Burke thought his feud with CM Punk was a great feud. He compares the feud to Ricky/Flair in terms of how many times they fought each other.
Burke says that he doesnt run his Myspace nor does he take his own booking information because he doesnt like to deal with the games people play.
Burke says that he just recently worked for a company where the booker was involved in six of the eight matches! Burke mentions his ECW Arena match against Jerry Lynn, which he felt he was sluggish. He has to avoid expecting to work the Jerry Lynns of the world, every night.
Burke proceeds to call Dave Meltzer an idiot for reporting false news. Burke says he said follow that as motivation to the other workers in OVW.
Burke discusses the Ghost Hunters appearance. He was going to seek perhaps getting another job. Burke says that they were going to bring him back, but they brought in The Miz since he was on television.
Burke puts over Paul Heyman over as a great booker. Burke says that Heyman is a mastermind.
Burke goes into a story about Sylvester Terkay. Burke says that Terkay didnt want to walk around with Burkes name on the jacket. While, Burke did the same for Terkay for six months.
Burke says he is not a fan of the movie the Wrestler. Whenever he hears Mickey Rourkes name he thinks of Jerry Lynn. Elijah Burke goes on a very good rant on the Wrestler that needs to be heard. He even throws in a Braden Walker insult! Must be heard.
PWInsider.com is reporting that actor Freddie Prinze Jr. has indeed left WWE's creative team. It was reported a few days ago that there had been little to no use of Prinze's creative input on Smackdown within the last several months, and sources have now confirmed that he has left the company. Although Prinze had not been to a Smackdown taping in nearly two months, it should be noted that he was very well liked by the wrestlers as well as most people backstage as he was a very avid pro wrestling fan and has been a follower of the WWE product for many years. Prinze was hired by WWE back in July of 2008 and worked solely on the Smackdown brand.
- Thanks to loyal reader Jen Carson for sending in this part of a Ted DiBiase Jr. interview from the newest issue of WWE Magazine:
Q. Any chance you might rock the Million Dollar Championship belt yourself someday?
A. I've thought about wearing it, not as a Championship, but as part of my wardrobe. If I do bring it back, it'll definitely be new and improved. I've got some ideas that I'm not sharing at this point. But I think everyone will be impressed with the way its reintroduced.
The original Million Dollar Championship belt hasn't been seen in WWE since early 1996 when Ted DiBiase Sr. gave it to the debuting Steve Austin. Austin abandoned the title when DiBiase left WWE and he became "Stone Cold" Steve
The Scream Queen Daffney, aka TNAs Gov. Palin, was scheduled for a booking with New Blood Championship Wrestling in Forest City, NC last fall. Promoter Bobby Causby, who wrestles as Rex Rumble, paid her all of the $250 up front in cash. The day of the show, Daffney called Causby to tell him she had a death in the family. While it is questionable if this is true, what is NOT questionable that she has neither returned the money to Causby nor has she honored the booking. Causby has tried repeatedly to contact her by phone and e-mail to no avail. Word has it that he is considering seeking legal action against her.
Daffney and her boyfriend, Caleb Konley, have a less than stellar reputation with promoters. They are known to cancel bookings at the last minute and to be hard to deal with when it comes to working with opponents with whom they are not familiar. Konley, in particular, is also known for thinking he deserves better pay because he works for NWA Anarchy and is Daffneys boyfriend.
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 35 jaar jong.
Mijn hobby's zijn: Worstelen en films.
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