In case you missed the news on Saturday night, TNA Wrestling has announced that they'll be airing a special 3-hour live edition of TNA iMPACT! on Monday night, January 4th. The show will go head-to-head with WWE Raw for the first time ever.
TNA President Dixie Carter posted a message on her Twitter page with a comment that implies more moves like this are on the way. She wrote:
"Hogan to debut Jan 4 in a live 3 hr iMPACT! special up against Raw. How's that for a 1st shot? Spread the word."
I don't have this confirmed just yet but I was told by a reliable source tonight that WWE may be planning to counter TNA's three-hour special on January 4th with a three-hour special of their own. That means both shows would go head-to-head from 8-11EST on January 4th. Anyone think WWE doesn't care or think about TNA? Guess again.
I'll have more on this tomorrow but again this is NOT confirmed just yet.
The following are Facebook statuses talent have left on Umaga's passing:
John Bradshaw Layfield: Very saddened to hear about the death of Eddie Fatu (known as Umaga in WWE) we were tag team partners on some of my last few road trips with WWE, had a ball with Umaga and will miss my friend. Enjoy your friends and family, life is great, but it also can be too short. So don't miss a day, enjoy life today.
Samu Anoa'i: Thank you all. Rest in Peace My Cousin!! WE LOVE YOU
Abdullah The Butcher: Eddie "Ekmo" Fatu was a good caring man. he is now with the Lord in a much greater place. feel for his family but not for him as he is where we all can only hope to be. at peace.
Vito Lograsso: I truly have lost many guys in the Buss of Wrestling. 19 years worth. I hope what ever happened to Eddie, he is now in a place of peace. God only takes the best people. I am truly sad and hope this is a eye opener for all on Facebook. Enjoy your life and try to think of things in a positive way. If you have something b...othering you. No shame to call a friend. Makes you human. I am the first to admit life can be hard.
Travis Tomko: Eki you were so good to me, and knew me when I was just a BodyGaurd wanting to be a wrestler, you helped me so much, Now your gone? You were a easy going , fun loving, and a caring guy, and so very fun to be with! It was God's wish I suppose, but I wish I had said goodbye. I pray for your Wife, Junior (rikishi) and the rest of your family bro, I will help any way I can! You will be So Very Missed! I Love You Uce!
Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show def. Cryme Tyme The Hart Dynasty def. Eric Escobar in a Handicap Match Drew McIntyre def. Intercontinental Champion John Morrison Mickie James def. Beth Phoenix and Natalya in a Triple Threat Match to decide the No. 1 Contender to the Womens Championship Kane def. Mike Knox R-Truth def. CM Punk by disqualification
HAMPTON, Va. With WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs just nine days away, all of SmackDown felt the destructive chaos and the uncontainable excitement being created by the earth-shattering new pay-per-view. (Full WWE TLC coverage)
World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker attempts to call-out Batista (PHOTOS | WATCH) After suffering Batistas brutal chair attack during his match with Chris Jericho one week ago, The Demon of Death Valley emerged to call-out his WWE TLC Chairs Match challenger. But, before he could get to the ring, The Animal launched another surprise attack on The Deadman from behind, wielding his steel weapon-of-choice ferociously as he unleashed an all out massacre upon The Phenom. He then raised the fallen Undertakers World Title high above his head, showcasing the full extent of his resolve to end his adversarys reign of terror at WWE TLC. (Match preview)
Earlier, SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long informed Batista that he would be facing Rey Mysterio next week in a Street Fight Match (watch preview), where there will be no rules. The two former friends have not stepped into the ring with each other since The Animal annihilated The Master of the 619 at Survivor Series (photos).
Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show def. Cryme Tyme (PHOTOS | WATCH) Just seconds after the self-proclaimed best at what he does tagged-in his gigantic partner in gold, The Worlds Largest Athlete leveled the emerging Shad with a devastating right jab, winning the match with single punch. The overwhelming victory sent shock waves through the WWE Universe and a strong statement to Jeri-Shows Tables, Ladders & Chairs Match opponents at WWE TLC, D-Generation X. (Match preview)
Drew McIntyre def. Intercontinental Champion John Morrison (Non-title) (PHOTOS | WATCH) Moments after yanking the unsuspecting Guru of Greatness into the exposed, metal ring support structure outside the ring, the Scottish Superstar picked up the biggest win of his career, reigning supreme over the Intercontinental Champion with his patented Double Underhook DDT. With the triumph, the ruthless combatant who was personally signed by Mr. McMahon thrusts himself into major title contention.
Mickie James def. Beth Phoenix and Natalya in a Triple Threat Match to decide the No. 1 Contender to the Womens Championship (PHOTOS | WATCH) As Womens Champion Michelle McCool and Layla sat ringside, Mickie James overcame both Beth Phoenix and Natalya to become the No. 1 Contender to the gold. After Natalya put Mickie in the Sharpshooter, The Fabulous Firebird grabbed the opportunity to execute a Glam Slam on the occupied Dungeon-trained Diva. But when Beth went for the victory, Mickie suddenly knocked her from the ring, capturing the huge win for herself, along with the hope of becoming the Womens Champion for the fifth time.
After the bell, a fed-up Mickie confronted Michelle, hurling the Champion back into her chair. This sparked a double-team attack by Michelle and Layla, which lit the fuse for an explosive rescue by the returning Maria.
R-Truth def. CM Punk by disqualification (PHOTOS | WATCH) Following the vicious Straightedge intervention by Luke Gallows, Punk and the Superstar formally known as Festus absolutely decimated R-Truth, with no regard for the match that had been taking place between the rapping Superstar and The Second City Saint.
Later, Luke Gallows spoke out about his straightedge transformation. (Watch)
The Hart Dynasty def. Eric Escobar in a Handicap Match (PHOTOS | WATCH) Official SmackDown Consultant Vickie Guerrero demanded an apology from her ex-boyfriend Eric Escobar for the humiliation that she had suffered one week ago. But when Escobar decided to ridicule her further, Guerrero used her power to put him in a Handicap Match against The Hart Dynasty as retribution. Though Escobar did the best he could, the explosive tag team specialists proved to be too much for him, finishing him off with The Hart Attack off the top rope. Afterward, Guerrero added insult to injury with a humiliating slap to her former beau.
Kane def. Mike Knox (PHOTOS | WATCH) Incensed by unrestrained rage, The Big Red Machine ripped through the sadistic Knox with a brutal chokeslam.
We can now unfortunately confirm that former WWE star Umaga (Eddie Fatu) has passed away. According to a source, he suffered a second heart attack while in the hospital. He was 36.
Details are sketchy at this point but he apparently fell asleep last night while watching television, and several hours later, his wife found him not breathing with blood coming out of his nose and he was rushed to the hospital.
The suspicion on cause of death is prescription pills, as Umaga was reportedly found bleeding from his nose and mouth when found by his wife. We obviously can't confirm that yet until toxicology reports come back in several weeks.
We're told his family was told to get into town and to the hospital right away. Family members were told they believe he suffered a heart attack. He was taken off life support earlier today.
WWE will be issuing a statement later today or this weekend.
Umaga was released from his WWE contract in June after failing WWE's Wellness Policy for the second time. At that time, he refused the company's wishes to send him to rehab. So sad. He was on the Hulkamania Tour in Australia that just concluded last weekend.
As noted earlier, several wrestlers have posted messages on Twitter regarding the death of former WWE superstar Eddie "Umaga" Fatu. Here's what some of them are saying:
Ken "Mr. Kennedy" Anderson: "Say a prayer for my boy Umaga"
D'Angelo Dinero / Elijah Burke: "Pope was informed many hours ago of my friend Umaga. Pope will not comment until the family speaks, neither should you. Prayer is key! ~ PHS"
Bobby Lashley: "Very sad day today. A good friend is gone."
**UPDATE #1**
The WWE website issued the following statement this evening:
Umaga passes Written: December 4, 2009
WWE would like to express its deepest condolences to Mr. Fatus family, friends and fans on his tragic passing. Mr. Fatu was under contract with WWE at various time periods and most recently performed under the name "Umaga." Mr. Fatu's contract was terminated on June 11, 2009.
**UPDATE #2**
Several wrestlers have expressed their condolences via Twitter in regards to the passing of Eddie "Umaga" Fatu. Here are a few:
* Shannon Moore: R.I.P Ecki....Mad love and respect. We will miss you and I will cherish the times we had together.
* Christopher Daniels: RIP Eddie Fatu. I'm glad I got to know you in the short time you were here.
* D'Angelo Dinero: This is rough, very rough. My heart and prayers goes out to Umaga's wife, his boys, and family.
* Allison Danger: RIP Umaga. I thank you for your kindness when we met. My heart aches for your family and my thoughts are with them in their time of need.
* Hurricane Helms: Heartbroken. No words.
* Jeremy Borash: RIP Eddie Fatu
* TNA Online: RIP Eddie Fatu
* Ken Anderson: go out and tear the house down. We both had something to prove that night and in my opinion: Mission Accomplished! Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Fatu family. Ecki absolutely adored his wife and was extremely proud of his children. I have so many amazing, funny, and heartwarming (sometimes gut wrenching belly-laughing) memories.
* Matt Hardy: Just landed in Shreveport to go to work tonight-I'm very saddened to hear about Ecky (Umaga) & his family-please keep them in your prayers.
**UPDATE #3**
Jim Ross noted in a blog post on his official website (JrsBarBQ.com) that Edward "Eddie" Fatu (a.k.a. "Umaga") had been removed from life support earlier today. This was obviously written before his passing this evening: "I was informed by someone who has spoken to a Fatu family member that Eddie has been removed from life support and his condition is obviously grave," Ross wrote. "Unfortunately, one can expect more bad news to be released imminently."
Fatu was reportedly found unconscious with a bloody nose late last night by his wife. He had been watching TV prior to being found. He had just returned from the Hulkamania tour overseas where I'm told he was "seemingly, healthy and doing well."
I learned this afternoon that members of his family were rushing to Houston to say their goodbyes before life support was turned off. I'm told he suffered a second heart attack earlier this afternoon while in the hospital. I'm told the first heart attack occurred late last night and a second occurred during the afternoon today while in the hospital.
**UPDATE #4**
I'm told that WWE is working with Fatu's family and there may be a service on Tuesday or Wednesday. A lot of the crew would be able to attend since SmackDown! is being taped in Houston, TX next week. RAW is being taped in Dallas. Fatu was living in Spring, TX, a Houston suburb, and lived near Shelton Benjamin, Shad Gaspard, MVP and The Great Khali. He was also business partners with Charlie Haas.
WWE issued an announcement regarding Fatu's passing earlier this evening. We've posted that here on the website.
I received an email from a top TNA talent earlier today which brought up an interesting point. My source noted: Noone has mentioned the (economy class syndrome) that causes blood clots on long flights, and there is no longer flight than Australia.
There are many people within the industry that are very upset about the passing. Although Fatu has had past issues with drugs, everyone I've talked to today is saying that he was a fun-loving guy with a great sense of humor who you loved being around.
I hope we've done an OK job of covering this story today. We're getting everything confirmed before we post it due to the sensitive nature of this story. There is never anything good that comes out of covering a death and it sucks to have to report on them to be honest. Thanks for your continued support of the website and hopefully our coverage has been OK for you all. It's been a crazy day in the office.
You can email me (Ryan Clark) at Webmaster@ProWrestlingSCOOPS.com. If you've got a newsbit please pass it along. We'll try to confirm it and then post it here on the website with credit to you.
On behalf of everyone on the site, we want to send our deepest condolences to Eddie Fatu's friends and family. So sad.
Just to clear up a rumor that is going around on some websites, Eddie 'Umaga' Fatu is still alive at a hospital in Houston, TX. The family is being gathered as I write this.
According to a source, without a miraculous recovery, it is just a matter of time. Again, he has not passed away as of this writing.
We wish him all the best and hope things improve although that seems unlikely at this point. So sad. We are being very cautious as it pertains to this story as we want to pass along the correct info. to all of you.
As noted earlier, former WWE Intercontinental champion and one-time Wrestlemania headliner Eddie "Umaga" Fatu is hospitalized in a ICU unit in Houston, Texas.
There have been reports making their way among the wrestlers that Fatu has died and/or is brain dead but sources close to Anoia family will only confirm that he is hospitalized at this time.
A WWE source, when contacted, noted that the company was aware of the situation and that it was a "grave situation."
- The show opened with Desmond Wolfe inside the six sides of steel talking about Kurt Angle. Kurt then came out and confronted him and they brawled.
- Alex Shelley defeated Doug Williams.
- Mick Foley tried to get DLo Browns advice on Hogan.
- Suicide defeated Homicide.
- Daniels made the Beautiful People an offer for Meanest Girls Part 3.
- DAngelo Dinero defeated Jesse Neal.
- Eric Young and Kevin Nash defeated Beer Money: After the match Mick Foley came out and demanded Nash tell him about Hogan and Dixies relationship.
- Lashley addressed Steiner.
- Lauren interviewed Daniels.
- Daniels defeated Abyss: AJ Styles was ringside for commentary. During the match the Beautiful People attacked Lauren, distracting Abyss leading to Daniels winning. After the match, the mystery person attacked AJ again
- Tenay interviewed Dixie Carter.
- Backstage Foley told Desmond he will not be wrestling Kurt tonight. Foley then called Jeff Jarrett to try to get him to show up next week, he refused.
- Hamada defeated Sarita
- Borash interviewed AJ Styles
- Kurt Angle came out expecting a match with Desmond Wolfe, instead Mick Foley came out and said hes facing Raven and Dr. Stevie.
- Kurt Angle defeated Dr. Stevie and Raven. After the match Desmond Wolfe attacked Kurt
Jeff Jarrett is back in the TNA storylines after the angle over the phone with Mick Foley on last night's iMPACT. Next week's show will see Foley head to Jarrett's home. For what it's worth, Jarrett has been in the TNA offices lately and there is speculation within TNA that he will work a program with Hulk Hogan.
Alex Marvez of ScrippsNews.com recently interviewed WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair and asked him about whether he'd ever seriously consider going to TNA Wrestling now that Hulk Hogan is on board.
"I haven't entertained the idea of working there because I've been so loyal to WWE, but you never know what's going to go on," Flair said. "I don't want to make any predictions, but I've certainly got a lot left to offer. I think I would be a good addition to (TNA's) program."
"Everything is about money, timing, what they want me to do and the job description. There's a lot up in the air. I haven't talked to (TNA ownership) yet, but I've had conversations with people who work there. I've stood by WWE, but if they're not going to use me anymore, I'm ready for any kind of action."
Flair also spoke about coming out of retirement in Australia to wrestle Hulk Hogan and his recent wedding to his fourth wife, Jackie Beems.
The Legacy def. Evan Bourne & Primo The Hurricane def. Zack Ryder by Disqualification Dolph Ziggler def. Matt Hardy
This week WWE Superstars on WGN America featured three matches, including a superb tag team match, a superhero in action and a battle between two of SmackDowns most exciting ring warriors.
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.
Dolph Ziggler def. Matt Hardy (PHOTOS | WATCH) Despite his cocky attitude, Dolph Ziggler continues to impress his critics and this week was no different in his bout against in-ring veteran Matt Hardy. As always, Hardys never say die attitude didnt make achieving victory easy for the Hollywood, Fla. native, but Ziggler was able to steal a victory. After a series of close calls for both ring warriors, the young Superstar surprisingly caught his veteran opponent off guard when he reversed the Twist of Fate into a backslide for the 1-2-3.
The Hurricane def. Zack Ryder by Disqualification (PHOTOS | WATCH) Although The Hurricane was declared the victor of his match, it wasnt exactly heroic being that it was due to a disqualification. WWEs caped crusader was in an epic battle against ECWs rising Ryder, but an attack by a mysterious masked man cut the fight short leaving the referee no choice but to stop the match giving Hurricane the win. The real story is in who was the man that interfered. Could it be possible that WWEs superhero now has a super villain arch nemesis?
The Legacy def. Evan Bourne & Primo (PHOTOS | WATCH) After attacking Kofi Kingston on Raw, The Legacy kept their momentum going with a huge win over Air Bourne & Primo on "WWE Superstars." Despite their opponents impressive speed and agility, DiBiase & Rhodes stepped up their game and did what they needed to achieve success. In the end, it was the Cody hitting the Cross Rhodes on Primo for the pin and the win.
- Conversations between Booker T and World Wrestling Entertainment have reportedly ended. On Monday, there was talk he would undergo the WWE pre-screening process, but for whatever reason it did not happen. He is not expected to be offered a WWE deal anytime soon.
- Low-Ki is expected to debut on WWE TV soon and start a program with Rey Mysterio. Low-Ki will debut under a mask and will be booked as someone from Mysterios past in Mexico.
The Southtown Star has an article up with ROH Champion Austin Aries, discussing top guys like Bryan Danielson and Nigel McGuinness leaving the company.
Here are some highlights "It's just a natural process of this business and especially for this promotion. You can go back and look historically. We've had a lot of people, including myself, who have left for other places and the company has continued to thrive. ROH is built around the best young, hungry talent in wrestling, and there's always going to be guys who are willing to step up when opportunities open up. We're trying to get in the position where we can be financially feasible for guys to stay and make a good career in ROH. The name of the game is making money. This is a business, and guys who are going to get an opportunity would be foolish not to take it."
Mickie James has finally surfaced online and she has posted a blog discussing her frustration with the internet. Namely, she says the number of people posing as her online has deterred her from opening social networking accounts to keep in touch with her numerous fans.
"I hate poser, impostors, phonies, fakes. I mean.. Seriously?! What is with these people?! Do they really dislike their own life so much that they try to live vicariously through an internet form of another. Get A Life people!"
"You see it's people like you that deter the real people from opening up fun accounts to keep in touch with their fans. This is why I DO NOT have a myspace, a face-book, etc."
She subsequently confirms opening an account on Twitter, which you can visit at twitter.com/mickiejamesdiva.
She adds she will do her best to get the numerous impostors shut down and that she may open a page on Facebook or MySpace. If and when she does, she will directly say so.
- Big Show underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in Tampa last Tuesday. He surprisingly worked last night and was telling everyone that his knee felt great.
Ziggler talks about when he'll win the World Title
In an interview with the Holiday 2009 issue of WWE Magazine (available on newsstands as of today), Dolph Ziggler predicts when he will become a World Champion in WWE.
"Well, my first goal is winning the Intercontinental Championship," Ziggler responded after being asked how long it will be before he hoists a World Championship above his head. "I've given myself six months to do it, and right now I'm nearing the five-month mark. After that, I plan to establish myself as the greatest Intercontinental Champion ever. A year and a half after that, I will become a World Champion."
As reported last week, Lauren Mayhew, the ECW ring announcer, has left WWE. She parted ways with the company after both sides were unable to come to terms on a new long-term contract. Vince McMahon is looking for someone to replace Lilian Garcia both as a ring announcer and someone who can sing the national anthem. One person said Mayhew's heart was never into wrestling and that she's leaving to pursue acting.
It's been reported this week that major changes are coming to WWE in the early months of 2010, with the ECW brand likely being shut down. According to a report, WWE also has big changes in store for the Smackdown brand. The feeling is that RAW has enhanced its identity with the Guest Host concept and Smackdown needs something of its own to stand out. While nothing official has been decided on yet, it's believed that any big changes will take place after year ends.
Goldust def. William Regal (with Ezekiel Jackson and Vladimir Kozlov) Trent Barreta & Caylen Croft def. local competitors ECW Champion Christian & Shelton Benjamin def. Ezekiel Jackson & Vladimir Kozlov
HAMPTON, Va. Future opponents banded as teammates Tuesday night on ECW on Syfy. While theyll clash at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs, ECW Champion Christian & Shelton Benjamin earned a victory over the argumentative Ezekiel Jackson & Vladimir Kozlov.
ECW Champion Christian & Shelton Benjamin def. Ezekiel Jackson & Vladimir Kozlov (PHOTOS | WATCH) ECW Champion Christian teamed with No. 1 contender Shelton Benjamin to take on Ezekiel Jackson & Vladimir Kozlov in tag action this week. The WWE TLC opponents put their differences aside for a night to get the colossal victory. Plus, The Gold Standard said hed undoubtedly have Christians back against their Ruthless Roundtable opponents on ECW, because Benjamin wants Christian at 100 percent in two weeks at WWE TLC when they steal the show with their Ladder Match. Will Benjamin live up to his promise to win the ECW Championship by defeating Christian at WWE TLC? Or will Captain Charisma retain the ECW Title once again?
Meanwhile, the rift between Jackson and Kozlov grew bigger, as Jackson walked out on his partner during their match, allowing Benjamin to capitalize and hit Paydirt on Kozlov for the victory. Earlier, William Regal apologized to Jackson after seeing footage of last weeks ECW when Kozlovs interference backfired, leading to Yoshi Tatsus win over The British Brawler, a loss Kozlov tried to blame on Jackson. Big Zeke also apologized to Regal for letting his temper getting the best of him, but he refused to apologize to Kozlov. Then, The Moscow Mauler interrupted, asking if Jackson would say hes sorry, sparking another argument. Regal tried to be the voice of reason, insisting that The Ruthless Roundtable stay united to do achieve total domination of ECW. Unfortunately for the once unstoppable group, Jackson and Kozlovs differences got in the way again, prompting their main event loss. Will these two be able to rekindle their friendship and partnership for the betterment of The Ruthless Roundtable?
Goldust def. William Regal (with Ezekiel Jackson and Vladimir Kozlov) (PHOTOS | WATCH) Goldust defeated William Regal when Jackson and Kozlovs arguing at ringside was too much of a distraction for The British Brawler. The schoolboy rollup victory gave The Bizarre One retribution for last weeks WWE Superstars when Kozlov defeated Goldust and Regal capped off the victory with a Knee Trembler. Whats next for the new rivalry between Goldust and Regals Ruthless Roundtable? How will Jackson and Kozlovs recent clash affect this once dominant trio?
Trent Barreta & Caylen Croft def. local competitors (PHOTOS | WATCH) ECWs newest duo, Trent Barreta & Caylen Croft, made their Extreme premiere Tuesday night with an easy win over two local competitors, as Barreta got the pin. Arriving in the Land of the Extreme via ECWs New Superstar Initiative, Barreta & Croft look poised to make an impact after a strong debut appearance this week. Plus, theyve promised ECW General Manager Tiffany that theyre the tag team thatll change the world! Who will step in the ring and face these two newcomers next?
The Abraham Washington Show with Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes (PHOTOS | WATCH) ECWs it couple, Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes, were the special guests on this weeks edition of The Abraham Washington Show. The Long Island, N.Y., Superstar, and his lovely Diva entertained the critically-acclaimed talk show crowd when they read poems they wrote for each other. (EXCLUSIVE POEM PHOTOS) Ryder was so overcome by emotion, he began jumping on the couch, ala Tom Cruise on The Oprah Winfrey Show!
Ryder will meet The Hurricane on this weeks WWE Superstars Thursday night at 8/7 CT on WGN America. How will the lovestruck Ryder fare in the ring against ECWs masked Superstar, who just came off the biggest win of his career after defeating Paul Burchill in a Mask vs. Career Match?
The Burchills plea ECW General Manager Tiffany was visited by Paul and Katie Lea Burchill this week on ECW. The brother and sister were recently ousted from ECW on Syfy when Paul lost a critical Mask vs. Career Match to The Hurricane. The Burchills pleaded with Tiffany to allow them back on ECW, but the Diva refused to let them return to the Land of the Extreme. Will the Burchills ever see the Land of the Extreme again?
Savannah talks to Vance Archer One of Tuesday nights newest Superstars, Vance Archer, told backstage interviewer, Savannah, that although hes destined to reach the top of ECW, he wants to savor each and every moment as he paints his "masterpiece of agony." With another win last week, the intense Archer remains undefeated with a 4-0 record. Who will he set out to conquer next?
- I noticed a post about a new WWE diva and 2008 Playboy Playmate Jillian Beyor. I don't know if it's of any interest, but she has appeared in a few adult themed fetish video shoots back in 2007 under the name Brianna. Hopefully that won't hurt her WWE career , but they are bound to find out once she hits TV. [Thanks to LOP reader James Scott for that]
According to a reliable source, World Wrestling Entertainment plans to put the ECW brand to rest once and for all in the near future as I noted earlier here on the website. WWE officials have had several meetings with the Syfy network about re-branding WWEs Tuesday night show.
Both sides are in agreement that WWEs version of ECW has been a bust and plans are already being made for a new weekly series. While several ideas have been tossed around (including a magazine-style recap show), right now it appears that WWE wants to make the new Tuesday night brand a WWE minor league and feature young up-and-coming stars.
WWE relaunched the ECW brand back in 2006 after the undeniable success of the Rise and Fall of ECW DVD set and later the ECW One Night Stand Pay-Per-View events. After ECW was relaunched as a brand, it quickly became apparent that WWE had no intention of keeping the elements that made the original ECW special and turned ECW into a watered-down, generic C show.
While it may be bittersweet to see the ECW letters go, ECW has been dead for a long time and a brand featuring primarily young stars sounds like it has potential.
As I noted earlier today here on the website, there are some major changes in store for ECW in 2010 according to a source. I do know that there have been talks between WWE and SyFy in recent weeks about a major re-branding of the show including dropping the letters 'ECW'. The SyFy network & WWE are both currently unhappy with ratings with ECW being considered a failure among many. WWE producer Kevin Dunn is also not a fan of the letters 'ECW' and never has been.
The plan according to a source is to use the show to promote up and coming superstars. There is a reason why there aren't many big names on the show these days. This is also part of the reason that Tommy Dreamer hasn't been seen in recent weeks.
I've heard more but I'm going to hold off on reporting it until I can get further confirmation. Stay tuned.
TNA Wrestling has announced its second video game, "TNA Impact: Cross The Line," will be released in early 2010 on handheld video game systems only. The game is being published by SouthPeak games, which acquired the rights to produce TNA video games on handheld systems (Nintendo DS & Sony PSP) after Midway Games went bankrupt. For more on the game, check out the press release below:
SouthPeak Enters the Ring to Publish TNA Wrestling Video Games
SouthPeak Interactive Corporation (OTC Bulletin Board: SOPK) announced today it has pinned a new deal to the mat to publish games based on the popular professional wrestling brand Total Nonstop Action and its flagship weekly television program TNA iMPACT!. The new game, TNA iMPACT!: Cross the Line, will be available for PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) systems (including the PSP®go system) and Nintendo DS later this winter.
"Their unique take on professional wrestling has captivated a continually growing fan base of millions of people across the world," said Richard Iggo, VP of Marketing for SouthPeak. "We look forward to giving those fans the opportunity to go head to head with all their favorite TNA superstars on the go, on either the PSP system or Nintendo DS."
"We are very excited to partner with SouthPeak to release these games for the handheld systems," said Steve Allison, Chief Marketing Officer for TNA Entertainment. "They have a great team that instantly impressed us with their passion and determination to work with us on these titles."
Through an agreement with TNA, SouthPeak now has the rights to publish the handheld titles that were in development by Midway Games. TNA iMPACT! Cross the Line features the organization's signature six-sided ring, wrestlers old and new for players to grapple with, action in and outside of the ring, wireless head to head play and much more. It is scheduled for release later this winter.
WWE's FCW sent out a press release today hyping that the newest Diva, Jillian Beyor, will be appearing before the Christmas Chaos card on December 4th.
Beyor was the 2008 Playboy Model of the Year and has appeared on reality TV show "Beauty & The Geek" and such magazines as FHM, Fitness RX, Stare and more.
Fans can take a photograph with Santa Claus and the FCW Divas at the show and receive a free 4x6 photo. Also appearing at the autograph signing with Beyor will be WWE Hall of Famer Ricky Steamboat and FCW Champion Justin Angel.
Maryse & Jillian def. Divas Champion Melina & Gail Kim Randy Orton def. Kofi Kingston Mark Henry def. United States Champion The Miz in a Non-Title Match Triple H def. Unified Tag Team Champion Chris Jericho
BALTIMORE - Big things, small packages. You know the saying. And never has it held more true than when diminutive Hollywood actor Verne Troyer dropped by as special guest host of Raw in the run-up to the WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs pay-per-view.
Triple H def. Unified Tag Team Champion Chris Jericho (PHOTOS | WATCH | WATCH: 'SWOGGLE) Just before heading out to confront Chris Jericho, Triple H and Shawn Michaels were irked by Hornswoggle when the little guy reminded them that he hasn't given up on the idea of taking legal action against the two for emotional distress.
Unified Tag Team Champion Chris Jericho is none too pleased. During his no count-outs, no disqualifications match against Triple H, the mouthy egomaniac enjoyed several opportunities to put away his opponent, but he simply could not overcome The Game. While that fact alone is enough to leave a welt, the sting becomes compounded by the realization that he must now face DX next week in a 2-on-1 Handicap Match, a match that Triple H insisted will be Jerichos last on Raw once DX takes the gold away from Jeri-Show.
With Jericho staring down the barrel of a 2-on-1 situation against DX, the momentum clearly shifts to Triple H & Shawn Michaels as the two teams look toward their TLC Match at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs.
Next weeks special guest host will be Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban They say everything is bigger in Texas even the controversy. To prove it, the ever-opinionated owner of the NBAs Dallas Mavericks, Mark Cuban, will be honored as special guest host next week when Raw rolls into Dallas.
Mark Henry def. United States Champion The Miz in a Non-Title Match (PHOTOS | WATCH | WATCH: HENRY RAP) Being The Worlds Strongest Man doesnt mean you have the worlds thickest skin. After The Miz questioned whether Mark Henry had any personality, the big guys feelings appeared bruised. Just to prove Miz wrong, Henry laid down a slammin rap with special guest host Verne Troyer. Then, after pumping up the crowd, Henry proceeded to beat down The Miz.
The Worlds Strongest Man and the Mini Me actor then invited a bouquet of Divas out, and they all danced in the center of the ring to celebrate.
John Cena called out Sheamus (PHOTOS | WATCH) Having survived being blindsided by Sheamus the week prior, WWE Champion John Cena dared The Celtic Warrior to try and slam him through a table again. Rather than Sheamus, though, The Champ received Carlito in the ring.
The Boriqua brother admitted that were Cena to lose at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs, Carlito and, allegedly, a host of other Superstars would cheer at the tops of their lungs. Carlito described how he and others are tired of always seeing Cenas name atop the marquee. Before Carlito could spit his trademark apple in The Champs face, though, Cena beat him down and sent him scurrying. Thats when Sheamus showed, but he only stared Cena down before leaving to fight another day.
Randy Orton def. Kofi Kingston (PHOTOS | WATCH) If you cant beat em get two cronies to soften em up first call it The Orton Creed. Before Randy Ortons match against Kofi Kingston, his Legacy henchmen, Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase, each executed separate attacks on The Dreadlock Dynamo. Determined to carry on, Kofi insisted he felt up to the challenge of Orton. Despite a valiant effort, however, Kingston appeared too fazed by the previous strikes and fell to Orton, who continued to viciously assail his opponent long after the bell.
Special guest host Verne Troyer arranged United States Champion The Miz vs. Mark Henry (PHOTOS) Leave it to The Miz to come up with a line that took all the creative energy of two hamsters on a treadmill. The United States Champion promised special guest host Verne Troyer that he would be nice to him and even give the actor, who stars in the upcoming fantasy adventure film The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus, one million dollars! Get it? Like in Austin Powers? Ugh.
After Troyer mentally disarmed Miz, the self-proclaimed Awesome One was set to punt the little guy when Mark Henry decided to put the bully in his place. After more verbal vomit from Miz, Troyer finally decided to arrange a match pitting the United States Champion against The Worlds Strongest Man. Yeeeaahhh, baby! (Check out Troyer's website)
Sheamus pummeled Santino Marella (PHOTOS | WATCH) Sheamus doesnt exactly come across as a lampshade-on-the-head type of guy. Which may explain why he became enraged at not being taken seriously last week just before he attacked WWE Champion John Cena during a contract signing for their Tables Match at WWE TLC. To emphasize the point, this week The Celtic Warrior challenged the only Superstar on the Raw roster he considers a joke, Santino Marella. Before the bout could even take place, though, Sheamus pummeled Santino, hurling him through a table and dismissively leaving him immobile.
Maryse & Jillian def. Divas Champion Melina & Gail Kim (PHOTOS | WATCH) After disguising herself as The Gobbledy Gooker last week and ambushing Melina from behind, Maryse was forced this week to face the Divas Champion head-on. The conceited Canadian teamed with Jillian in a clash against the lovely Latina & Gail Kim. Perhaps her time recovering from injury fueled Maryse since she actually managed to pin Melina without making any "poultry" excuses.
Jeri-Show and DX arranged Chris Jericho vs. Triple H for tonight (PHOTOS) With less than two weeks until WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs, Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show presented their case against their rivals straight to the WWE Universe. The two rattled off a list of reasons they felt DX was unworthy of facing them in a Tables, Ladders & Chairs Match.
For their part, DX objected strenuously. Triple H & Shawn Michaels stated that theyre eager to shut the mouths of their opponents once and for all. In fact, The Game challenged Jericho to a singles match, which the self-important Superstar grudgingly accepted. The four even figured out a way to raise the stakes. The match will involve no count-outs or disqualifications, and the loser must face the opposing team next week in a 2-on-1 Handicap Match.
TNA Wrestling World champion A.J. Styles was interviewed by Perth, Australia's 91.3 SportFM and spoke TNA's desire to compete with WWE.
Radio host Jason Dattilo asked Styles about the rumor that TNA Wrestling could be moving their programming to Monday nights to compete with WWE Raw and start a new Monday Night War. When asked whether TNA on Monday nights will ever happen, Styles responded confidently by saying, "Absolutely. One day it will happen, there's no doubt about it. I know we can run with them."
This brought the conversation to whether TNA is ready to start a war and what is holding them back from being ready to take WWE down. Styles implied that money was a big reason WWE is able to produce a top notch product and get their brand name out there.
"A lot of things (wrong) are our production issues. The reason why WWE is out there and so big and been there so long and their production is very expensive. We're working our way up there to get to that point. We just don't have the money they do." Styles also pointed to TNA not having the brand awareness that WWE has in the marketplace. Styles said if the production value picks up and TNA can "get their name out there,", he sees TNA being able to compete with WWE.
Styles named Rey Mysterio, Shawn Michaels, Shelton Benjamin, Christian and Evan Bourne as WWE superstars who would be a good fit in TNA.
Raw wrestler Eddie Colón (a.k.a. Primo) is said to be very frustrated with his position in World Wrestling Entertainment.
The second generation star has accomplished little of note since being broken up from his brother Carlito over the summer as more often than not hes working dark matches and being left off Monday Night Raw. Primo loves wrestling more than his brother does (Carlito himself has admitted this to be true), so this is a trying time for him.
The Colóns captured the WWE Tag Team Championships shortly after Primos debut last year, holding on to them through June.
Regarding Sheamus and Drew McIntyre, theyre respective pushes come as a result of Triple H and Shawn Michaels endorsement of the two. In the case of The Celtic Warrior, he is Triple Hs workout partner and feels he has tons of potential. Likewise, McIntyre is well liked by Triple H as well as Shawn Michaels, with both getting behind him because he is tall with a good physique
Bret Hart has praised WWE Divas Champion Melina in an audio interview with Ministry of Slam. In the past, Bret has praised her work and referred to her as his favorite wrestler today. In this audio interview, he says: I think there's some great wrestlers in the WWE. I think Melina is, you know to me is really creative and imaginative, and she's an innovator and she comes up with some great matches, I love watching her wrestle. In a lot of ways I think shes the best wrestler in the world right now.
As seen on iMPACT! several weeks ago, TNA President Dixie Carter essentially said during her speech at the top of the hour that anyone who wasn't on board with her recent changes to the organization should find work elsewhere.
As it turns out, five wrestlers had asked for their releases from the company in recent weeks including Frankie Kazarian (a.k.a. Suicide) and Homicide we don't have the names of the three other wrestlers. All five were turned down. AJ Styles & Christopher Daniels stepped in for Kaz and calmed the situation down as we noted several weeks ago here on the website.
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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