Friday, June 8, 2012
WWE backing JBL charity climb of Mt. Everest
WWE donated $250 thousand today to sponsor former WWE Superstar JBL's attempt to climb the highest peak on each continent to raise money for Family Center, a charity that helps kids in Bermuda, where JBL lives. TMZ has their story at http://www.tmz.com/2012/06/06/wwe-sponsoring-former-champ-john-bradshaw-layfield-charity-climb/?adid=hero1, WWE has theirs at http://www.wwe.com/inside/overtheropes/wweinyourcorner/jbl-seven-summits-kickoff.
Shane McMahon to ring the NASDAQ stock market opening bell
Former WWE executive Shane McMahon will ring the opening bell at the NASDAQ stock market on Friday morning in Times Square in New York City. To read the official press release, visit MarketWatch.com.
Current WWE star making a TNA appearance
TNA president Dixie Carter announced that WWE star Christian will be at Slammiversary weekend. "On a plane headed to Dallas for the big PPV this weekend," Carter wrote. "Very excited (Christian) is joinin(g) us for the night. He's one of my favorites."
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Update on the plans for the 1,000th Raw
- The plan is announce matches ahead of time, and promote the episode as PPV caliber show.
- WWE has reached out to many past stars to appear, including Roddy Piper, Dusty Rhodes, Sgt. Slaughter, Jim Duggan, Gene Okerlund and Jimmy Hart.
- There is talk of Undertaker and Bobby Heenen making an appearance. Heenan’s availability for the show will likely depend on his health at the time.
source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Picture of the new WWE Title belt?
In a recent interview, current WWE Champion CM Punk indicated that a brand new WWE Title belt has been created.
A photo has now surfaced online, and after contacting several WWE sources, PWInsider.com is reporting that the photo is legit, although "some changes" will still be made before the final product is revealed.
Here's the photo..
A photo has now surfaced online, and after contacting several WWE sources, PWInsider.com is reporting that the photo is legit, although "some changes" will still be made before the final product is revealed.
Here's the photo..
Daniel Bryan Discusses His Goals In Wrestling, Punk's Promo on Vince McMahon and More
- Daniel Bryan recently sat down with CT.com for an in-depth interview. Here are some highlights:
In the GQ.com interview, you said a similar thing about how that there's no time to heal because you've got a week between shows. Are you in any pain constantly?
Well, for right now, I'm not in any pain whatsoever. It's just times when you have a nagging injury and you don't have any time off, that's when that nagging injury can become something like, 'Oh, it's hard to sleep because this is bothering me.'
How do you keep from getting burnt out on all this? Even if you have your hobbies, this is a pretty rigorous schedule, and you have so many obligations. How do you mentally separate yourself from this very demanding schedule?
I don't really feel like it's that grueling. The most grueling part to me is waking up at 6 a.m. to take a flight because it's hard for me to get back to sleep. As long as I'm not flying, it's not grueling for me at all. I enjoy being on the road. I'm a gentleman of the road!
Before your match with CM Punk at WWE Over the Limit, Punk did an interview where he did an impression of Vince McMahon. He said that a decade ago, Vince wouldn't have ever imagined a match between you two being one of his main events. How accurate do you think that portrayal of what he thought is?
Oh, I think one year ago he would have said that. One year ago, he would have been like, 'Daniel Bryan's going to be in a WWE Championship match at a pay-per-view? [Incredulously] No! Against CM Punk? No!' [Laughs] I'm absolutely certain that's correct. The 10-year time frame is a little longer than it should have been. He could have said a year ago and been accurate.
What do you talk about when you talk to other wrestlers about your character?
I don't know. The only person I really talk to a lot about it is William Regal, and that's because he's been my mentor since I was young. For me, it's been hard adjusting to television — not necessarily the wrestling but the television aspect of it and directing things toward the camera and making sure that the camera picks up your face and stuff like that. All that's really important.
What kind of goals do you have for your wrestling career? Putting aside winning the WWE Championship or main eventing WrestleMania, do you want to stay within the business for a long time or have any other specific goal?
Well, for me, it's all about enjoying my life. I don't have a specific goal set like that necessarily. I just want to, at the end of my life, look back on it and be like, 'Yeah, I enjoyed that,' because as far as we know, we only get one life, and I want it to be good. I don't want to waste it. I wrestle because I love to wrestle, so for me, [my goal is] to keep enjoying it. You see a lot of people lose their passion for it, and I don't ever want that to happen.
In the GQ.com interview, you said a similar thing about how that there's no time to heal because you've got a week between shows. Are you in any pain constantly?
Well, for right now, I'm not in any pain whatsoever. It's just times when you have a nagging injury and you don't have any time off, that's when that nagging injury can become something like, 'Oh, it's hard to sleep because this is bothering me.'
How do you keep from getting burnt out on all this? Even if you have your hobbies, this is a pretty rigorous schedule, and you have so many obligations. How do you mentally separate yourself from this very demanding schedule?
I don't really feel like it's that grueling. The most grueling part to me is waking up at 6 a.m. to take a flight because it's hard for me to get back to sleep. As long as I'm not flying, it's not grueling for me at all. I enjoy being on the road. I'm a gentleman of the road!
Before your match with CM Punk at WWE Over the Limit, Punk did an interview where he did an impression of Vince McMahon. He said that a decade ago, Vince wouldn't have ever imagined a match between you two being one of his main events. How accurate do you think that portrayal of what he thought is?
Oh, I think one year ago he would have said that. One year ago, he would have been like, 'Daniel Bryan's going to be in a WWE Championship match at a pay-per-view? [Incredulously] No! Against CM Punk? No!' [Laughs] I'm absolutely certain that's correct. The 10-year time frame is a little longer than it should have been. He could have said a year ago and been accurate.
What do you talk about when you talk to other wrestlers about your character?
I don't know. The only person I really talk to a lot about it is William Regal, and that's because he's been my mentor since I was young. For me, it's been hard adjusting to television — not necessarily the wrestling but the television aspect of it and directing things toward the camera and making sure that the camera picks up your face and stuff like that. All that's really important.
What kind of goals do you have for your wrestling career? Putting aside winning the WWE Championship or main eventing WrestleMania, do you want to stay within the business for a long time or have any other specific goal?
Well, for me, it's all about enjoying my life. I don't have a specific goal set like that necessarily. I just want to, at the end of my life, look back on it and be like, 'Yeah, I enjoyed that,' because as far as we know, we only get one life, and I want it to be good. I don't want to waste it. I wrestle because I love to wrestle, so for me, [my goal is] to keep enjoying it. You see a lot of people lose their passion for it, and I don't ever want that to happen.
Backstage News on Prichard's WWE Departure, More
- Chris Jericho and Fozzy will be performing at the Gramercy Theatre in New York City on August 30th. Tickets go on sale this Friday at 10am through Live Nation.
- WWE has a new article up ranking the top 10 King of the Ring winners. At #10 they list King Mabel, #9 is Kurt Angle, #8 is Edge, #7 is Brock Lesnar, #6 is Harley Race, #5 is Bret Hart, #4 is Triple H, #3 is Booker T, #2 is Randy Savage and Steve Austin is ranked at #1.
- As noted before, Tom Prichard was released from his head trainer job at WWE developmental and replaced by Bill DeMott. According to a WWE source, this is just one of many changes that will happen as developmental is slowly taken over by Triple H. Many talents, including friends of DeMott, were shocked to hear he had taken over for Prichard again.
- WWE has a new article up ranking the top 10 King of the Ring winners. At #10 they list King Mabel, #9 is Kurt Angle, #8 is Edge, #7 is Brock Lesnar, #6 is Harley Race, #5 is Bret Hart, #4 is Triple H, #3 is Booker T, #2 is Randy Savage and Steve Austin is ranked at #1.
- As noted before, Tom Prichard was released from his head trainer job at WWE developmental and replaced by Bill DeMott. According to a WWE source, this is just one of many changes that will happen as developmental is slowly taken over by Triple H. Many talents, including friends of DeMott, were shocked to hear he had taken over for Prichard again.
Sharmell Discusses WCW Nitro Girls, Thinks Similar Group Would Bring Excitement to WWE
- WWE's website has a new interview up with former WWE Diva Sharmell. Sharmell discusses The WCW Nitro Girls - a dance group she was involved in years ago during the Monday Night Wars.
"We had to be on point and perfect every night because we knew the whole world was going to see it. And every week we had a different [live] audience, so we never knew what to expect. All of that just added to the excitement of performing on Nitro. The electricity from the fans, the desire to be perfect … that’s what made the Nitro Girls so memorable."
The wife of Booker T talked about former Nitro Girl Stacy Keibler.
"I don’t think WCW management realized that the Nitro Girls would eventually become as popular as we did. When we held that contest, there were a lot of girls that really wanted to be Nitro Girls. We had the competitions in different cities and the auditions were packed, but we were fortunate to get Stacy. She won fair and square, and no one could have predicted the impact she would have on wrestling and pop culture."
Sharmell feels The Nitro Girls could have a place in WWE today.
"I really think we were ground-breaking, especially in sports-entertainment.We had calendars, magazines and videos of our own. We really made an impact. There are a number of talented Divas competing today, but I really feel that a group like the Nitro Girls could bring an extra level of excitement to WWE."
"We had to be on point and perfect every night because we knew the whole world was going to see it. And every week we had a different [live] audience, so we never knew what to expect. All of that just added to the excitement of performing on Nitro. The electricity from the fans, the desire to be perfect … that’s what made the Nitro Girls so memorable."
The wife of Booker T talked about former Nitro Girl Stacy Keibler.
"I don’t think WCW management realized that the Nitro Girls would eventually become as popular as we did. When we held that contest, there were a lot of girls that really wanted to be Nitro Girls. We had the competitions in different cities and the auditions were packed, but we were fortunate to get Stacy. She won fair and square, and no one could have predicted the impact she would have on wrestling and pop culture."
Sharmell feels The Nitro Girls could have a place in WWE today.
"I really think we were ground-breaking, especially in sports-entertainment.We had calendars, magazines and videos of our own. We really made an impact. There are a number of talented Divas competing today, but I really feel that a group like the Nitro Girls could bring an extra level of excitement to WWE."
WWE Funding JBL's New Project, JBL Says a WWE Return Is "Highly Likely"
- TMZ reports today that WWE is sponsoring his whole 7 Summits trip and will be promoting it online through their social media accounts. JBL has been planning to climb the highest peak on each continent to help raise money for a charity in Bermuda. JBL was going to pay for the trips on his own but TMZ reports that WWE has given the project a quarter-million dollar boost.
The trek will take JBL between 2 and 3 years. It was going to cost him upwards of $250,000 but that problem is solved thanks to WWE.
On Twitter, JBL added that WWE will be promoting his new project in a big way. A fan asked if he would be returning to WWE and he replied:
"I think it's safe to say after announcement today on tmz that it's highly likely"
The trek will take JBL between 2 and 3 years. It was going to cost him upwards of $250,000 but that problem is solved thanks to WWE.
On Twitter, JBL added that WWE will be promoting his new project in a big way. A fan asked if he would be returning to WWE and he replied:
"I think it's safe to say after announcement today on tmz that it's highly likely"
Three-Hour RAW News, More on DX Reuniting for RAW
On week one of RAW going three-hours, WWE is pulling out all the stops in hopes of getting fans into the habit of tuning in an hour earlier because the first hour of every three-hour RAW is always the lowest-rated.
- As noted before, Triple H and Shawn Michaels will be reuniting next month for the three-hour 1,000th episode of WWE RAW. Triple H will likely be continuing the angle with Brock Lesnar and Shawn Michaels could be the next victim of Lesnar's kimura lock.
- As noted before, Triple H and Shawn Michaels will be reuniting next month for the three-hour 1,000th episode of WWE RAW. Triple H will likely be continuing the angle with Brock Lesnar and Shawn Michaels could be the next victim of Lesnar's kimura lock.
More on Randy Orton's Suspension, Bryan Tells a Story About Ryback's Black Eye
- Daniel Bryan recently spoke with CT.com and was asked if he has a "road wife" in WWE or a travel partner. Bryan revealed that he travels with Cody Rhodes and Ryback, who you may remember appeared on WWE TV two weeks ago with a nasty black eye. It's not clear if this is one of the made up stories that Bryan is talking about but below, he tells a story about Ryback's black eye:
"Right now, my road wife is the Ryback [Laughs] and Cody Rhodes. We don't have any particular good road stories because I feel like we're kind of boring. We just kind of drive to the next town. But what me and Cody really like to do is make up stories about the Ryback and then spread them amongst the locker room. For example, yesterday, we were working out in a gym. He was doing kettle bell snatches with only 35 pounds. You look at him, and you'd think, 'Oh! This guy is way stronger,' but he was lifting this kettle bell and he couldn't control it, and it hit him in the eye and now he's got a black eye. That story spread throughout the locker room all day yesterday."
- F4Wonline.com notes that the story from SuperLuchas of Randy Orton testing positive for Dianobol, an anabolic steroid, is unconfirmed. Most Wrestlers who want to pass a drug test would avoid Dianobol since it stays in your system for as long as six weeks.
"Right now, my road wife is the Ryback [Laughs] and Cody Rhodes. We don't have any particular good road stories because I feel like we're kind of boring. We just kind of drive to the next town. But what me and Cody really like to do is make up stories about the Ryback and then spread them amongst the locker room. For example, yesterday, we were working out in a gym. He was doing kettle bell snatches with only 35 pounds. You look at him, and you'd think, 'Oh! This guy is way stronger,' but he was lifting this kettle bell and he couldn't control it, and it hit him in the eye and now he's got a black eye. That story spread throughout the locker room all day yesterday."
- F4Wonline.com notes that the story from SuperLuchas of Randy Orton testing positive for Dianobol, an anabolic steroid, is unconfirmed. Most Wrestlers who want to pass a drug test would avoid Dianobol since it stays in your system for as long as six weeks.
WWE Limiting Brock Lesnar's Appearances, Last-Minute Raw Rewrites, Lilian Garcia
- A source within WWE says Vince McMahon is getting tired of scripting Raw at the last minute. The WWE Chairman regularly demands partial or full script re-writes on the day of the show. A script for an episode last month was not completed until after the show went on the air.
- Tuesday's SmackDown taping emanated from Ring announcer Lilian Garcia's hometown of Columbia, South Carolina. She did interviews with local television stations outside the Colonial Life Arena while fans stood in line to enter the venue.
Regarding the event, Garcia tweeted Tuesday, "When I moved from Spain my 1st US home was Columbia, SC. Well 2nite I get 2 announce #WWE #SmackDown in Columbia! Gamecock country! #Excited."
- Brock Lesnar is contracted for approximately twenty-four dates over the duration of his contract with WWE. Since he fulfilled six dates in April and May, he will be off television until the build-up for SummerSlam. He'll also be needed in the weeks leading up to WrestleMania XXIX and thus is not scheduled for any appearances in the fall.
- Tuesday's SmackDown taping emanated from Ring announcer Lilian Garcia's hometown of Columbia, South Carolina. She did interviews with local television stations outside the Colonial Life Arena while fans stood in line to enter the venue.
Regarding the event, Garcia tweeted Tuesday, "When I moved from Spain my 1st US home was Columbia, SC. Well 2nite I get 2 announce #WWE #SmackDown in Columbia! Gamecock country! #Excited."
- Brock Lesnar is contracted for approximately twenty-four dates over the duration of his contract with WWE. Since he fulfilled six dates in April and May, he will be off television until the build-up for SummerSlam. He'll also be needed in the weeks leading up to WrestleMania XXIX and thus is not scheduled for any appearances in the fall.
Update On Plans For Money in the Bank Pay-Per-View, Has WWE Contacted X-Pac?
-WWE will hold Raw and SmackDown brandMoney in the Bank Ladder Matches at the Money in the Bank pay-per-view event taking place July 15, 2012 at the US Airways Center in Phoenix, Arizona. The planned winners are WWE Superstars who have never held the Money in the Bank briefcase.
- Former WWE Superstar Matt Hardy has been announced to appear for a Maryland Championship Wrestling Event taking place July 7 at The Green Room located at 2401-G North Point Blvd. Dundalk, Maryland.
- A "one night only" D-Generation X reunion is advertised for the landmark 1000th episode of Raw taking place July 23 at 8/7 CT on USA Network. Sean "X-Pac" Waltman, who was a member of the memorable faction from 1998 to 2000, says he has not been contacted to appear at the event.
"No one has called me in regards to the 1000th episode of Raw," he clarified Monday on Twitter. "Just to set the record straight."
- Former WWE Superstar Matt Hardy has been announced to appear for a Maryland Championship Wrestling Event taking place July 7 at The Green Room located at 2401-G North Point Blvd. Dundalk, Maryland.
- A "one night only" D-Generation X reunion is advertised for the landmark 1000th episode of Raw taking place July 23 at 8/7 CT on USA Network. Sean "X-Pac" Waltman, who was a member of the memorable faction from 1998 to 2000, says he has not been contacted to appear at the event.
"No one has called me in regards to the 1000th episode of Raw," he clarified Monday on Twitter. "Just to set the record straight."
The Undertaker Possibly Returning To Television Soon, Reason For McMahon's Return
-Vince McMaon's return to television on next Monday's Raw SuperShow is being done in response to the program's disappointing ratings figures in recent weeks. He will kick off the three-hour show with an evaluation of John Laurinaitis' job performance as General Manager of Raw and SmackDown, which company officials are hopeful will boost first hour viewership.
The show was originally pegged as the second choice for the date of the annual WWE Draft. However, with so many Wrestlers working both Raw and SmackDown, the idea was dropped.
- Kane is today's featured Superstar on WWE.com.
- Raw SuperShow will permanently expand to a three-hour show starting with the 1,000th episode on July 23 at 8/7 CT on USA Network. WWE officials have reportedly contacted nearly two dozen former performers for cameo appearances on the program, which will be treated as pay-per-view quality event. The entire roster will be on hand for the show and there is a chance new talent will be introduced as well. Officials are hopeful that The Undertaker appears at the event. If he does, it will likely be promoted weeks in advance rather than as a surprise.
The show was originally pegged as the second choice for the date of the annual WWE Draft. However, with so many Wrestlers working both Raw and SmackDown, the idea was dropped.
- Kane is today's featured Superstar on WWE.com.
- Raw SuperShow will permanently expand to a three-hour show starting with the 1,000th episode on July 23 at 8/7 CT on USA Network. WWE officials have reportedly contacted nearly two dozen former performers for cameo appearances on the program, which will be treated as pay-per-view quality event. The entire roster will be on hand for the show and there is a chance new talent will be introduced as well. Officials are hopeful that The Undertaker appears at the event. If he does, it will likely be promoted weeks in advance rather than as a surprise.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Report: WWE responds in detail to TNA lawsuit
Reported by Adam Martin of Wrestleview.com
PWInsider.com has provided a detailed update on TNA’s current lawsuit against WWE including a breakdown of the statement issued by WWE yesterday.
* WWE’s statement stated they had fired Brian Wittenstein on 4/27 after they became aware of Wittenstein providing WWE’s John Laurinaitis with a CD and print out of confidential TNA information. Wittenstein claimed he obtained the information while working for TNA.
* Laurinaitis then informed WWE’s in-house legal department after being given the information. WWE then said Wittenstein was let go specifically due to their concerns that he had “improperly obtained information” from his time as an employeee with TNA. WWE said Laurinaitis didn’t copy or keep the information.
* WWE stated that Wittenstein was advised he was being let go and took back his company-issued laptop and Blackberry. Searches by WWE’s IT department showed no evidence that copies of the TNA material were still on Wittenstein’s computer or Blackberry after WWE took back possession of the material.
* WWE stated that searches of their email server and in-house servers showed no proof that Wittenstein had emailed out the material to anyone else working for WWE. 27 employees working in WWE’s talent relationship and creative writing departments were searched.
* In TNA’s lawsuit against WWE, the company claimed WWE had waited several weeks before contacting them. WWE has a different story. In the filing yesterday, WWE stated that Wittenstein was let go on 4/27 and “on or around” 5/3, WWE’s General Councel called TNA’s Director of Talent Relations Bruce Prichard to inform him of the situation. Prichard then referred WWE to TNA’s General Counsel, Crede Williams.
* WWE claimed messages were left several times for Williams between 5/4 and 5/7 before he returned the calls. Williams asked WWE to send the material to him. WWE complied via Express Mail on 5/8 and TNA received the material on 5/9. TNA then filed the lawsuit on 5/23.
* WWE noted in the filing that TNA had a “lack of basis for believing WWE has any of their material” after a search revealed that none of the TNA material was on any company servers. WWE also added that it would not be appropriate for TNA to be able to search the company’s server due to concerns for WWE intellectual property landing in the hands of TNA employees.
* Searches of John Laurinaitis’ email server account revealed zero evidence that he had the material still in possession according to WWE.
* WWE added that due to the size of their six large servers, it would not be physically possible to transport them to Nashville to be examined.
The planned 6/11 hearing has been continued indefinitely to allow both sides to work on scheduling the discovery process of the lawsuit.
PWInsider.com has provided a detailed update on TNA’s current lawsuit against WWE including a breakdown of the statement issued by WWE yesterday.
* WWE’s statement stated they had fired Brian Wittenstein on 4/27 after they became aware of Wittenstein providing WWE’s John Laurinaitis with a CD and print out of confidential TNA information. Wittenstein claimed he obtained the information while working for TNA.
* Laurinaitis then informed WWE’s in-house legal department after being given the information. WWE then said Wittenstein was let go specifically due to their concerns that he had “improperly obtained information” from his time as an employeee with TNA. WWE said Laurinaitis didn’t copy or keep the information.
* WWE stated that Wittenstein was advised he was being let go and took back his company-issued laptop and Blackberry. Searches by WWE’s IT department showed no evidence that copies of the TNA material were still on Wittenstein’s computer or Blackberry after WWE took back possession of the material.
* WWE stated that searches of their email server and in-house servers showed no proof that Wittenstein had emailed out the material to anyone else working for WWE. 27 employees working in WWE’s talent relationship and creative writing departments were searched.
* In TNA’s lawsuit against WWE, the company claimed WWE had waited several weeks before contacting them. WWE has a different story. In the filing yesterday, WWE stated that Wittenstein was let go on 4/27 and “on or around” 5/3, WWE’s General Councel called TNA’s Director of Talent Relations Bruce Prichard to inform him of the situation. Prichard then referred WWE to TNA’s General Counsel, Crede Williams.
* WWE claimed messages were left several times for Williams between 5/4 and 5/7 before he returned the calls. Williams asked WWE to send the material to him. WWE complied via Express Mail on 5/8 and TNA received the material on 5/9. TNA then filed the lawsuit on 5/23.
* WWE noted in the filing that TNA had a “lack of basis for believing WWE has any of their material” after a search revealed that none of the TNA material was on any company servers. WWE also added that it would not be appropriate for TNA to be able to search the company’s server due to concerns for WWE intellectual property landing in the hands of TNA employees.
* Searches of John Laurinaitis’ email server account revealed zero evidence that he had the material still in possession according to WWE.
* WWE added that due to the size of their six large servers, it would not be physically possible to transport them to Nashville to be examined.
The planned 6/11 hearing has been continued indefinitely to allow both sides to work on scheduling the discovery process of the lawsuit.
WWE Presents HBK Appreciation Night In August
The WWE Raw Supershow on Monday, August 6th, 2012 will be Shawn Michaels Appreciation Night. It’s being held at the AT & T Center in San Antonio, which is HBK’s hometown. Go to http://wwe.com/events/wwepresents-rawsupershow-sanantonio for more info & http://prowrestlingevents.tk for info about upcoming shows.
If all goes as planned we will be there LIVE and will be bringing you live coverage and photos.
If all goes as planned we will be there LIVE and will be bringing you live coverage and photos.
Brooke Hogan: “I always wanted to get into wrestling”
KCRA.com posted an interview with Brooke Hogan. She talks about always wanting to get into wrestling:
“Secretly I always wanted to wrestle, even though I’m a total pansy,” she said. “I cannot take a bump for the life of me, but I just saw the opportunity, and I was like ‘why not,’ you know, it’s temporary. I get to get in there and straighten a few things out, you know. I’m passionate about it, I’ve grown up in the business, and it’s fun.”
Two Former WWE Talents Comment On Whether WWE Would Fire Randy Orton
Randy Orton's second violation of WWE's Talent Wellness program puts the organization in a quandary since one more infraction would result in automatic termination. However, given the long-held belief that WWE selectively enforces their drug testing policy, there is skepticism as to whether the organization would follow through on cutting ties with the high-ranked wrestler in the event of another drug test failure.
Dustin Starr, who appeared as referee for Florida Championship Wrestling in 2010, tweeted "WWE would never release Randy Orton" in response to former Intercontinental Champion Lance Storm praising the sports entertainment organization for sticking to their drug testing policy with the 60-day suspension of The Viper. Storm disagreed with his remark.
"By policy they could rehire after 1 year. He'd be fresh and hot on return," Storm explained.
Starr replied, "I don't know. Seems like a diamond they would not be willing to let go. He's a golden boy."
WWE's official procedure for handling a third Talent Wellness Program violation reads: "In the event of a third positive test for substances prohibited by this Policy other than marijuana and alcohol, the WWE Talent's contract with WWE will be terminated and WWE will publicly disclose the WWE Talent's name and that WWE Talent's contract was terminated for a third violation of the Policy.
"Any WWE Talent, who has participated in a drug rehabilitation program as a result of the Policy, must undergo the mandatory unannounced follow-up testing set forth in Section 8 C (1) of the Policy for the remainder of his/her contractual relationship with WWE.
"Any WWE Talent, who leaves the WWE for any reason with a first or second violation on his/her record, will maintain said violation count on his/her record from the time he/she departs WWE until the time he/she returns, if ever, to the WWE.
"In addition, a WWE Talent, who is terminated by the WWE for a third violation of the Policy, will be prohibited from returning to the WWE for at least one (1) year. If a WWE Talent, who is terminated for a third violation of the Policy, is permitted by the WWE, in its sole discretion, to return to the WWE, then (1) such WWE Talent must test negative for all prohibited substances under this Policy during the pre-contract screening process; (2) such WWE Talent will return to the WWE with a first and second violation of this Policy against his/her record; and (3) such WWE Talent must undergo the mandatory unannounced follow-up testing set forth in Section 8 C (1) of the Policy for a period of at least one (1) year after execution of his/her new contract with WWE."
The nine-time World champion's suspension reportedly stems from a positive drug test for the anabolic steroid Dianabol, which is banned by the United States Congress under its Controlled Substances Act. He also reportedly tested positive for marijuana, which is subject to a $2,500 fine.
Dustin Starr, who appeared as referee for Florida Championship Wrestling in 2010, tweeted "WWE would never release Randy Orton" in response to former Intercontinental Champion Lance Storm praising the sports entertainment organization for sticking to their drug testing policy with the 60-day suspension of The Viper. Storm disagreed with his remark.
"By policy they could rehire after 1 year. He'd be fresh and hot on return," Storm explained.
Starr replied, "I don't know. Seems like a diamond they would not be willing to let go. He's a golden boy."
WWE's official procedure for handling a third Talent Wellness Program violation reads: "In the event of a third positive test for substances prohibited by this Policy other than marijuana and alcohol, the WWE Talent's contract with WWE will be terminated and WWE will publicly disclose the WWE Talent's name and that WWE Talent's contract was terminated for a third violation of the Policy.
"Any WWE Talent, who has participated in a drug rehabilitation program as a result of the Policy, must undergo the mandatory unannounced follow-up testing set forth in Section 8 C (1) of the Policy for the remainder of his/her contractual relationship with WWE.
"Any WWE Talent, who leaves the WWE for any reason with a first or second violation on his/her record, will maintain said violation count on his/her record from the time he/she departs WWE until the time he/she returns, if ever, to the WWE.
"In addition, a WWE Talent, who is terminated by the WWE for a third violation of the Policy, will be prohibited from returning to the WWE for at least one (1) year. If a WWE Talent, who is terminated for a third violation of the Policy, is permitted by the WWE, in its sole discretion, to return to the WWE, then (1) such WWE Talent must test negative for all prohibited substances under this Policy during the pre-contract screening process; (2) such WWE Talent will return to the WWE with a first and second violation of this Policy against his/her record; and (3) such WWE Talent must undergo the mandatory unannounced follow-up testing set forth in Section 8 C (1) of the Policy for a period of at least one (1) year after execution of his/her new contract with WWE."
The nine-time World champion's suspension reportedly stems from a positive drug test for the anabolic steroid Dianabol, which is banned by the United States Congress under its Controlled Substances Act. He also reportedly tested positive for marijuana, which is subject to a $2,500 fine.
SmackDown Stars On RAW European Tour, RAW's Social Media Score Drops
-- SmackDown stars Daniel Bryan and the Big Show will be joining the RAW brand for its European tour that kicks off on Wednesday in Seville, Spain and runs until Saturday in Barcelona, Spain.
Daniel Bryan is replacing Chris Jericho in WWE title matches against CM Punk and Show will team with John Laurinaitis in handicap matches against John Cena
Cena tweeted on Tuesday afternoon that he's "off to spain" today.
-- The social media activity score for Monday's RAW was down a sharp 18% from last week's Memorial Day episode. According to Trendrr.tv, RAW had had a score of 119,420, its third-lowest of the year. The show ranked #6 on cable for the night was down 28% from its 2012 average.
Daniel Bryan is replacing Chris Jericho in WWE title matches against CM Punk and Show will team with John Laurinaitis in handicap matches against John Cena
Cena tweeted on Tuesday afternoon that he's "off to spain" today.
-- The social media activity score for Monday's RAW was down a sharp 18% from last week's Memorial Day episode. According to Trendrr.tv, RAW had had a score of 119,420, its third-lowest of the year. The show ranked #6 on cable for the night was down 28% from its 2012 average.
Monday, June 4, 2012
WWE Reportedly Getting Serious About Drug Testing, Randy Savage Interviews
- WWE.com has published a playlist of "Macho Man" Randy Savage interviews that make you go "Ooh Yeah!"
- WrestlingFigs.com says Maria Kanellis will appear at Wrestling Universe 7 Main St. Watertown, Massachusetts on Saturday, July 14 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Call 617-744-6455 for more information.
- With WWE's sixty-day suspension of Randy Orton for his second violation of the Talent Wellness Program last Wednesday, the sentiment within the organization is that management is getting serious with their drug testing policy since he is a top star. It has been widely speculated in the past that WWE officials selectively enforced drug testing policy violations based on a wrestler's importance to the organization.
Since last July, WWE has handed out ten suspensions to nine performers (Andy Leavine, Darren Young, Evan Bourne, Heath Slater, Mike Chioda, R-Truth, Randy Orton, Rey Mysterio and Sin Cara), the most within a one-year period since WWE began publicly announcing all Talent Wellness Program violations on November 1, 2007. From 2009 through the July 2011 announcement of Sin Cara's suspension, the company had only issued one suspension for a Talent Wellness Program violation (to Rey Mysterio).
- WrestlingFigs.com says Maria Kanellis will appear at Wrestling Universe 7 Main St. Watertown, Massachusetts on Saturday, July 14 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Call 617-744-6455 for more information.
- With WWE's sixty-day suspension of Randy Orton for his second violation of the Talent Wellness Program last Wednesday, the sentiment within the organization is that management is getting serious with their drug testing policy since he is a top star. It has been widely speculated in the past that WWE officials selectively enforced drug testing policy violations based on a wrestler's importance to the organization.
Since last July, WWE has handed out ten suspensions to nine performers (Andy Leavine, Darren Young, Evan Bourne, Heath Slater, Mike Chioda, R-Truth, Randy Orton, Rey Mysterio and Sin Cara), the most within a one-year period since WWE began publicly announcing all Talent Wellness Program violations on November 1, 2007. From 2009 through the July 2011 announcement of Sin Cara's suspension, the company had only issued one suspension for a Talent Wellness Program violation (to Rey Mysterio).
Randy Orton's Future With WWE Uncertain, Officials Lobbying For His Termination
Randy Orton's future with WWE is uncertain following their announcement Wednesday that he was being suspended for 60 days for his second violation of the Talent Wellness Program. SuperLuchas.net reports the SmackDown wrestler met with chairman Vince Mcmahon, Executive Vice President of Talent and Live Events Paul Levesque and Executive Vice President of Television Production Kevin Dunn at the organization's headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut on Friday to discuss his future with the organization.
A WWE source described the meeting's atmosphere as "hostile;" it was determined that a further decision concerning Orton awaits. The report adds there are "several" officials lobbying for his termination as a cost-cutting measure. They feel his lucrative ten-year contract—signed in January 2010—can no longer be justified if he is brought back in a mid-level role. His second suspension hinders WWE from continuing to feature Orton in headline role since a third drug-testing policy infraction would result in automatic termination.
McMahon is especially infuriated with Orton, who felt he had matured in recent years. The nine-time world champion's suspension reportedly stems from a positive drug test for the anabolic steroid Dianabol, which is banned by the United States Congress under its Controlled Substances Act. He also reportedly tested positive for marijuana, which is subject to a $2,500 fine.
A WWE source described the meeting's atmosphere as "hostile;" it was determined that a further decision concerning Orton awaits. The report adds there are "several" officials lobbying for his termination as a cost-cutting measure. They feel his lucrative ten-year contract—signed in January 2010—can no longer be justified if he is brought back in a mid-level role. His second suspension hinders WWE from continuing to feature Orton in headline role since a third drug-testing policy infraction would result in automatic termination.
McMahon is especially infuriated with Orton, who felt he had matured in recent years. The nine-time world champion's suspension reportedly stems from a positive drug test for the anabolic steroid Dianabol, which is banned by the United States Congress under its Controlled Substances Act. He also reportedly tested positive for marijuana, which is subject to a $2,500 fine.
6/4/ RAW Supershow Recap
Out first is Michael Cole. In the middle of the ring, Cole says there is 1 man responsible for the wrath of the Big Show, his guest, John Cena. Out comes Cena. Cole reminds Cena that Show has knocked him out twice but that pales in comparison to last week. Cole says Cena should’ve done the right thing and support Big Show. Cena says GM Johnny is a power hungry bully. Says Johnny humiliated the Big Show and says he was going to beat Johnny at the PPV. Cole says he is self centered and wrapped up in his ego. Cole says Show did what he had to do. Cole says no one can beat Show now and he will prove that to Cena in 2 weeks. Cena says Show is a man that wants a wallet the size of his waist line. Cole says Cena is jealous of Show. Cole says he has supported Cena from day 1 but now says Cena is overrated and hopes Show beats Cena at the PPV. Cole reminds Cena he cannot strike an announcer. Then out comes another clown, GM Johnny. Johnny says this week he’s letting Cena pick his opponent tonight. Show isn’t here tonight. Johnny says he has retired. Cena says “anybody?” Cena says he is picking an opponent he has scouted for years……he picks Cole. Cole claims he can’t do that. Johnny nods yes and leaves Cole screeching in the ring.
Commercial.
Back live, Cole is begging Johnny to not let this happen. Johnny says rumor has it everyone’s job is being evaluated. Johnny orders Cole back to the announcer’s table. Recap is shown of Sheamus destroying Otunga on Smackdown. Then, out comes Vicky to introduce Dolph Ziggler. Out comes Dolph followed by the World Champion, Sheamus. Match begins with clubbing blows by Dolph, forcing Sheamus into the corner. Sheamus reverses, clubbing blows of his own to Dolph. Dolph whipped across the ring but is caught with a back elbow by Dolph. Front senton attempted by Sheamus but Dolph counters out trying for a rollup but Sheamus picks him back up and this time delivers the front senton. 2 count. Sheamus runs at Dolph who pulls the top rope down allowing Sheamus to sail over to the floor but Sheamus back up, pulling Dolph outside as well. Sheamus picks up Dolph who then counters, trying to run Sheamus into the ring post but Sheamus blocks and hits a big elbow to Dolph. Dolph then hops over the ring steps after being whipped toward them. Vicky destracts Sheamus long enough for Dolph to slide into the ring and hit Sheamus with a dropkick through the ropes.
Commercial.
Back live, Dolph has a rear chin lock on Sheamus but Sheamus counters out with axe handle blows to Dolph. Sheamus then hits a shoulder block in the corner followed by a running knee lift. Powerslam to Dolph, 2 count. Both men up, kicks by Dolph followed by a jumping DDT…2 count. Dolph to the top rope, caught by Sheamus and right hands. Sheamus up top, headbutts by Dolph. Fameasser from the top rope by Dolph, 2 count. Dolph jumps on Sheamus’ back but is tossed off and then gets hit with White Noise. Brogue Kick by Sheamus…1-2-3. WINNER SHEAMUS.
As Sheamus heads to the back, he is attacked by Ricky Ricardo…..I mean Alberto del Rio. Sheamus is rammed into the WWE logo sign on the stage. Alberto locks in the arm bar submission hold over the top of the ramp.
Commercial.
Back live, Otunga walks up and tells GM Johnny that next week Vince McMahon returns next week to give Johnny a job evaluation. In the arena, Cole says it makes sense putting him in a match later. That it’s nothing personal.
Out comes Sin Cara for his match against Hunico. Bell rings and Hunico hits a kick and clubbing blows to the back of Sin Cara. Sin Cara off the ropes, acrobatics in the ring, catching Hunico with an arm bar takeover and Hunico slides to the outside. Sin Cara with a leap over the top rope into a hurricanrana on the floor. Hunico tossed in, Sin Cara goes for a sunset flip but Hunico rolls through and nails a kick to the head of Sin Cara. Double underhook backbreaker by Hunico. Rear chin lock by Hunico. Sin Cara lifted up into a torture rack maneuver but counters out and flips Hunico to the mat. Hunico runs at Sin Cara in the corner only to be hit with boots to the face. Hunico comes in again, missing a splash in the corner. Sin Cara with a kick to the head of Hunico. Sin Cara sent into the ropes comes off with a back elbow to Hunico. Camacho kicked off the apron, Sin Cara hits a hurricanrana like face buster for the pin and the victory.
Commercial.
Back live, out comes Ryback to destroy 2 more jobbers. One of them runs at Ryback and gets launched, the other gets caught and is used as a battering ram onto the other one. Ryback with his marching vertical suplex. Then picks up both men and delivers a running clothesline in the corner to both then a double clothesline. Both picked back up, BOTH men on his shoulders, Samoan drop to both and the pin.
Commercial.
Back live, out comes C.M. Punk for his match with Kane. Cole is begging for Johnny to rethink his match later. Out comes Daniel Bryan. Kane is out now. Match begins with a lockup, Kane shoving Punk to the corner, kicks to Punk sending him down to the mat. Punches to Punk, big right hand. Punk whipped across the ring, catches Kane coming in with a boot to the face, then a kick to Kane’s head. Kane clotheslined over the top then Punk hits a suicide dive through the ropes onto Kane. Punk then tosses Kane in, to the top he goes, hits a cross body off the top. Kicks to Kane, but Kane catches him with a knee to the gut and a dropkick to Punk. 2 count. Punches to Punk in the corner. Kick to the ribs of Punk. Elbow drops by Kane. Scoop slam by Kane followed by a leg drop. 2 count. Rear body scissors by Kane. Punk counters out with elbows to the thigh of Kane. Punk fighting back, kicks to Kane, but Kane tosses Punk over the top rope to the floor.
Commercial.
Back live, Punk with a sleeper hold on Kane but Kane slams him off, 2 count. Rear chin lock by Kane on the mat. Both men up, side slam by Kane. 2 count. Kane goes to the top but is knocked off by Punk. Running knee and bulldog by Punk. 2 count. Punk to the top rope, diving off onto Kane, 2 count. Punk calls for the GTS, but couldn’t get Kane up. Kane with a boot to the face. 2 count. Kane readies for the choke slam, but is caught with a neckbreaker by Punk…2 count. Punk again goes up top, but Kane catches him with a right hand. Kane knocked off the 2nd rope and Punk hits the big elbow off the top rope. 2 count. Both men on the floor, Kane tosses Punk into the barricade. Punk goes to get back in but is caught by Bryan and 2 kicks. Kane then pulls Punk in, goes for chokeslam but Punk kicks Kane in the head. AJ runs out and gets on the apron, Bryan yells at her and Punk dives through the ropes onto Bryan but is then caught by a chokeslam by Kane for the win. AJ gets in ring to check on Punk but Kane eyes her. Bryan attacks Kane, but is kicked down. AJ gets up, smiles at Kane, Kane backs off and leaves as AJ returns her concern to Punk.
Commercial.
Back live, AJ is walking backstage when Josh asks her about the look she gave to Kane, the smile. She says she likes it when men look at her. She then yanks his tie and asks him if he likes aggressive women. Then says he may be her type.
Cole makes a plea to the fans to get him out of the match later against Cena.
Vignette is shown with Show saying he doesn’t care anymore. He’s doing what he wants to do.
Out comes Kofi Kingston and R-Truth for their match against Reks and Hawkins.
Commercial.
Back line, Kofi and Hawkins are locked up. Hawkins off the ropes, knocks Kofi down. Leap frogs by Kofi as Hawkins bounds off the ropes then Kofi hits a jumping back elbow. 2 count. Truth tagged in, double team takedown to Hawkins then a kick to the head of Hawkins by Kofi. Leg drop by Truth. Reks tagged in, drop toe hold by Truth. Punches to Reks by Truth in the corner, but Truth gets thrown off. Reks goes to work on the arm of Truth. Hawkins tagged in, arm bar to Truth. Reks back in, Truth counters with punches to Reks. Kofi tagged in, springboard clothesline to Hawkins, Boom Drop to Hawkins. Reks gets knocked off the apron by Kofi. Kofi misses the Trouble in Paradise, but hits a crossbody on Hawkins. Reks tosses Truth out, but Truth pulls him out too. In ring, Kofi hits the Trouble In Paradise for win.
Commercial.
Back live, Cena is out, but Cole is still at announcer’s table. GM Johnny is out. Says people want to see Cena vs. Cole. Johnny says the match is now no DQ provided Cena is victorious against Tensai. Tensai out, shoves his handler out of the way, comes to ring. Cole is confident. Match begins with lockup and forearms to Cena in the corner. Headbutt by Tensai. Cena clotheslined under 2nd rope. Both men trade punches. Tensai clotheslined over the top rope. Tensai back in as the handler attacks Cena with kicks as we head to commercial.
Back live, Cena counters out but is leveled by Tensai. Cena whipped into the corner and hit with a big clothesline. Cena whipped to other corner and catches Tensai with boots to the face. Tensai comes back and slams Cena for a 2 count. Claw hold to the shoulder by Tensai. Cena then tossed outside. Cena’s head bounced off the announcer’s table. Headbutt to Cena knocks him off the apron. Cena whhipped into the steps. Tensai is awaiting Cena to get back in ring. Big underhook slam to Cena, 2 count. Tensai misses the big splash. Tensai slammed down by Cena, 5 knuckle shuffle to Tensai. AA by Cena, 1-2-3…..it’s Cena vs Cole now. Cole is now back tracking as the bell sounds. Cole runs into the crowd but Cena catches him. Cole tossed into ring. Cole begs him to wait. Cole says we can shake hands. Off comes the coat and tie, Cole gettin’ serious. Cole gets in Cena’s face, poking him in the chest. Cena rips open his shirt and gives a huge open hand slap to Cole then rips his pants off. Cena then steps on Cole’s crotch. Cena says SHHHHHH like Show does and gives Cole another big slap. Cena has Cole in a headlock, making Cole apologize to Lawler. Cena then tells Cole he owes Jim Ross an apology. Cole offers the apology, saying sorry over and over. Cena then brings up JR’s BBQ Sauce. Lawler just happens to have some at ring side. Cena gets it and pours it all over Cole. Hot sauce apparently, so Cena cools him off with the fire extinguisher. Cena goes for the AA on Cole but is attacked by Tensai. Cole crawls over and tries to pin Cena but only gets a 2 count. Time for Cena to learn to quit playin’ around. Cole grabs the extinguisher, runs at Cena but is hit with the AA for the 1-2-3 by Cena.
End of show.
Major Name Returning To Raw Next Week, SmackDown Draws Poor Rating, More
-- Former WWE Talent Funaki, Gene Snitsky and Lance Hoyt (a/k/a Vance Archer) appear for Branded Outlaw Wrestling this Saturday in San Antonio, Texas at Woodlawn Gymnasium. Bell time is 7:30 p.m.
- The June 1 episode of WWE Smackdown on Syfy drew a 1.73 cable rating, with 2,557,000 viewers. It was the second lowest rated first-run Friday show of the year, edging the May 11 program by 0.01.
The prior week's show drew a 1.87 cable rating with 2,630,000 viewers.
- Rikishi is today's featured WWE Superstar on WWE.com.
- WWE announced through their mobile service that Mr. McMahon will appear on next Monday's three-hour edition of Raw SuperShow. He is advertised to "evaluate John Laurinaitis's job performance" during the event.
- The June 1 episode of WWE Smackdown on Syfy drew a 1.73 cable rating, with 2,557,000 viewers. It was the second lowest rated first-run Friday show of the year, edging the May 11 program by 0.01.
The prior week's show drew a 1.87 cable rating with 2,630,000 viewers.
- Rikishi is today's featured WWE Superstar on WWE.com.
- WWE announced through their mobile service that Mr. McMahon will appear on next Monday's three-hour edition of Raw SuperShow. He is advertised to "evaluate John Laurinaitis's job performance" during the event.
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