Wrestling Thread Mar 9-15 | Andrew 'Test' Martin Passes Away

[4wrestling]

Last weeks Raw featured more good and bad which seems to have been the trend lately. There are only four more weeks of TV between now and WrestleMania, so theWWE really needs to step up to good to get things moving. It will be very interesting to see if any storylines are altered after the script of last week'sshow leaked (which is still one of the most unbelievable things I've ever seen happen).

First the good from last week. Two things really stand out.
1) The main event between HHH and Randy Orton finally started to get interesting. I've hated the way Orton has been portrayed. After having such anawesome character through the Royal Rumble, he was turned into just another whiney heel. This continued last week as he came to the ring with his lawyers anddoctors. However, let's give credit where credit is due. HHH cut an great promo last week with tons of emotion to really get the ball rolling in thisfeud. Orton added the stipulation that HHH cannot put his hands on him unless physically prevoked. This has been done a million times, but I still like itbecause it is better than having the two men face each other multiple times leading up to WrestleMania. At least they didn't make them tag team partners. On Smackdown, Legacy laid out HHH, so we'll see if he is able to get revenge tonight. I'd guess he probably beats the crap out of Dibiase and Rhodeswhile Orton looks on.

2) Chris Jericho. He continues to shine. Even last week, where the segment wasn't as good as previous weeks because of Snuka's limitations on themic, Jericho still managed to create an excellent segment. Having already put down Flair, Piper, Steamboat, and Snuka, you would think it is time to finallyannounce his actual opponent for WrestleMania. My guess is still Austin, but Hogan is a very real possibility. I will cringe if Jericho is forced to job toHogan. Why anyone still roots for him is beyond me. Anyway, they may go one more week. I could see Greg Valentine getting involved since that is who TheWrestler was actually based on.

3) Shawn Michaels defeated Vladimir Kozlov to earn the opportunity to face The Undertaker at WrestleMania. No, the match wasn't good. It was pretty awfulwhich is completely expected for any Kozlov match. But the fact that they have now established the most interesting match in my opinion for WrestleMania is adefinite positive for me. I'll be looking forward to HBK vs The Undertaker more than any other match on the card.


The bad....

1) Lawler starts by announcing that we will have John Cena vs Edge tonight, and that it is one of the biggest matches in the history of the WWE. Well, ifthat's true, why isn't it happening at WrestleMania? And why is it a match we've seen 732 times? And why is Cena already getting this match whenjust the week before he said he would hunt Vickie and Edge down until he earned his opportunity. Anyway, the match was forgettable when it actually didhappen. It ended in a lame DQ which was expected. Vickie then threw the curveball that at WrestleMania we would see Edge vs The Big Show.

The were supposed to have the contract signing this past Friday on Smackdown. However, Cena interfered, and now the contract signing is tonight. I think forthe most part, everyone already expected it to become a triple threat match with Edge, Cena, and Show. However, Show spilled the beans this past week on VH1that Cena would be involved. With Vince's rage about last week's script leaking, we'll see if there are any repercussions for Show for spoilingthe Smackdown main event.

Also, for Show being involved in this match. I understand they are trying to liven up the tired feud between Edge and Cena. But does adding The Big Showreally do anything for the match? I don't think anyone sees him as having a shot at winning. He's boring in the ring, and really brings nothing tothe match. The WWE would have been much better off elevating a younger talent and including them in this match as the third man. Chances are, he would bemore entertaining than Show, and it would give him the rare shot at stardom most young wrestlers never get.

2) Money in the Bank. So far it's CM Punk, Kane, Mark Henry, Finlay, MVP, and Shelton Benjamin. This is shaping up to be the worst MITB ever. I believetwo more men will be added. My guesses are Khali and Kozlov. MVP or Shelton better win this thing.


Other than the contract signing, nothing as of yet has been announced for tonight. I'll be back later to update when we have more news.




UPDATE

Chris Jericho vs Kofi Kingston - Money in the Bank Qualifier

This should be a good match. I would expect a legend to maybe cost Jericho the match.

Ted Dibiase and Cody Rhodes vs HHH

Let the burying begin. This is why young talent has such a hard time getting over in the WWE.

Melina vs Maryse - Non-Title Match

It will be an awful match. I wonder if Beth Phoenix is completely out of the picture.

 

[bowzer blitz]

Can't wait. Good looks for the review as always. Will be at work so DVR in motion...

 

[willinc]

Jericho has been gold these past few weeks.

I'm guessing we'll see HHH laying out Rhodes and Dibiase with his sledgehammer this week.

 

[gottagitdemjs]

How long before Hogan makes an appearance on RAW to get pummeled by Jericho only to pummel Jericho in return at WM? Something about Hogan being "thelegend that finally stands up to Jericho."

 

[4wrestling]

Originally Posted by gottagitdemjs

How long before Hogan makes an appearance on RAW to get pummeled by Jericho only to pummel Jericho in return at WM? Something about Hogan being "the legend that finally stands up to Jericho."

How great would it be if Hogan needed money so badly, that he was just another legend. He came out tonight, and got shown up by Jericho. Thennext week, it was Austin who made the save for all the legends.

 

[6 Rings G.O.A.T.]

What is going to happen to JBL? Is he going for the I.C. Title? I kinda see him in MITB...

 

[illoquent aka dsk]

In a couple hours I'll post them...

Good review 4dub.

 

[princelaparka]

WILLINC wrote:
I'm guessing we'll see HHH laying out Rhodes and Dibiase with his sledgehammer this week.

As if he needs a weapon

Shane o mac whooped those two goons no problem afew weeks ago, Vince REALLY thinks we all have the memory span of goldfish.

 

[blackmamba08]

Originally Posted by 4wrestling

Originally Posted by gottagitdemjs

How long before Hogan makes an appearance on RAW to get pummeled by Jericho only to pummel Jericho in return at WM? Something about Hogan being "the legend that finally stands up to Jericho."

How great would it be if Hogan needed money so badly, that he was just another legend. He came out tonight, and got shown up by Jericho. Then next week, it was Austin who made the save for all the legends.

I wish, that would be perfect

 

[jdcurt2]

This is up early today, props 4W. I'm interested to see if they keep the same plans with JBL which I hope they do because the IC belt needs to start beingrespectable again.

 

[sidewayze]

The way the MITB is shapin to be, it looks like MVP is winning it this year

 

[jdcurt2]

Koko B. Ware is goin to be inducted into the HOF this year

Matches for Raw tonight:

Chris Jericho vs. Kofi Kingston (Money in the Bank Qualifying Match)

Melina vs. Maryse (non-title match)

Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase vs. Triple (Handicap Match)..... Nice prediction WILLINC

 

[johnnyredstorm]

I like Kufi in this match but the rest of the candidates suck.

 

[illoquent aka dsk]

[color= rgb(255, 0, 0)]The last MITB qualifying match announced for ECW.[/color]

- The final Money in the Bank Qualifying Match will take place on tomorrow's ECW on Sci-Fi, to be taped tonight before RAW.

Superstars from all three brands including Vladimir Kozlov, William Regal, Tommy Dreamer, Dolph Ziggler, Christian Cage, The Great Khali will compete in the match to fill the final spot for the big ladder match at WrestleMania.

As noted earlier, Chris Jericho will face Kofi Kingston on tonight's RAW in a Money in the Bank Qualifying Match.


If Christian isn't involved with the ECW Championship, he should come out as the winner...but I shouldn't expect anything from the writers.

If not him, then Evan Bourne returning...?

News & Notes in a few minutes.

 

[thacamel]

Jericho BETTER not be in MITB

 

[illoquent aka dsk]

BIG Edition of News & Notes


HHH returning to RAW?

- New post-draft advertisements for WWE Raw feature both Triple H and John Cena. While no concrete plans have been made for the 2009 WWE Draft, we're told there has been a lot of talk about Hunter returning to Raw this year. As always, plans regarding the Draft are kept top secret and most workers will not know where they are going ahead of time.


Hulk Hogan undergoes back surgery; his status for Wrestlemania is unknown and Twitter account confirmed to be FAKE.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Hulk Hogan underwent back surgery last week, reports prowrestling.NET. This leaves his status for a possible match at WrestleMania XXV unlikely but still possible. Two weeks ago, Hogan said he spoke with Vince McMahon about appearing at WrestleMania, but was unable to reach an agreement at that time.

While the type of Hogan's surgery is unknown, doctors generally require a six-week recovery time from a discectomy. Hogan was walking a few hours following surgery, which is not uncommon, but it would be surprising if his doctor cleared him to take bumps and work a real match even five weeks after surgery.
[/font]
-- It was reported last week that the Hulk Hogan accounts on Twitter that have been sending messages out, teasing WrestleMania 25, are fake.

Two different sources confirmed last week that it isn't the real Hulk Hogan on those Twitter accounts, so disregard any Tweets you see coming from those accounts.



Evan Bourne's return is imminent; could appear on today's ECW taping.

- Evan Bourne's return to WWE television is imminent and could happen as soon as tonight's ECW/Raw tapings in Jacksonville, Florida. Bourne, who has been out since October with an ankle injury, has been heavily rumored to be added to the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania 25. As we noted on Friday, Bourne was scheduled for last Monday's taping but ended up not getting used.


Smackdown Superstar arrives backstage for RAW's taping.

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[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The Undertaker has arrived backstage at RAW. We can't confirm that he'll be on the show, but it's very likely that he'll be involved in an angle with Shawn Michaels.[/font]

Umaga Injury update.

For those wondering about the status of Umaga, he worked this weekend's house show loop and is fine after reportedly being shaken up at last Tuesday's double SmackDown taping from the Mohegan Sun Arena.

Umaga just recently returned from a torn PCL in his knee he suffered in August 2008.


Past Diva confirmed to be participating at Wrestlemania 25.

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We have learned that Tammy Sytch (formerly known as Sunny) was contacted to participate in the 25-Diva Battle Royal at WrestleMania 25 and has accepted the offer. We are told WWE contacted several past Divas and will put them in the Battle Royal together as part of the 25th Anniversary theme. As far as we know, Sytch will be working on a per-show deal.

Vince on a rampage again, more on leaking and his backstage attitude.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]-- On a side note, Vince McMahon is said to be on one of his rampages as of late regarding internet leaks. This happens every so often where he freaks out because major storylines are leaking to the 'net. Vince is said to have been especially hard to work with lately, snapping at people and constantly changing his mind about storyline directions. The only ones who are immune to Vince's fickle nature seem to be the wrestlers, as he rarely has a negative word to so say to them. The support staff takes the brunt of the abuse from the boss.[/font]

-[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]One of the former WWE Divas who company officials contacted this past week about appearing at the planned 25-Women Battle Royal at Wrestlemania XXV joked that now that it's all over the Internet, Vince McMahon will probably get mad and scrap it altogether. Vince is said to be really pissed off these days due to all the recent internet leaks. Some employees are reacting how Vince wanted them to and are scared to leak anything, while others have began leaking storylines and other tidbits just to spite him for the way he's been treating them lately.[/font]


Sonjay Dutt says everyone in TNA wants to be in WWE; speaks on where TNA has gone wrong.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]TNA wrestler Sonjay Dutt, who is about to be let go from TNA, says that everyone on the TNA roster has a desire to be in WWE.

"Any professional wrestler - ask everybody in TNA no matter where you are - they're going to want to be in WWE," Dutt told World Band Media radio. "That's the top; that's the best. Every professional wrestler deep down in their heart wants to be in WWE."

Dutt said the top stars however probably enjoy working for TNA more than WWE due to the easier schedule and generous pay. "WWE's schedule is so insane and hectic, so for a guy like Sting who has put his time into the business, he doesn't need to be on the road," Dutt said. "TNA is a good option. It has a light schedule to make the kind of money they want to make."

Sonjay's contract with TNA expires at the end of the month. He's headed to Japan this weekend for a tour with Zero-One, then he's back on the indy circuit here in the U.S. There have been rumors that WWE is interested in Sonjay, which he obviously hopes are true. Dutt believes he could be a valuable asset to WWE for their upcoming tour of India and progressive international expansion in Southeast Asia.

[/font]-[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]TNA wrestler Sonjay Dutt says TNA is being pressured by Spike TV to use TNA Impact to focus on big name stars rather than quality wrestling matches. As a result, the X Division has diminished in value, according to Dutt.

"I don't think they've used it to its best abilities as time has gone on," Dutt recently said on the Who's Slamming Who podcast. "It has something to do with them getting two hours, being on a nationally televised network, having to answer to ad sponsorships, having to put on guys with name value versus a quality wrestling match."

Dutt's contract expires at the end of the month after TNA opted not to renew him for an agreed-upon three-year deal. Dutt joins Petey Williams in leaving TNA after spending several years with the company.

TNA's focus on the Main Event Mafia vs. Frontline TV storyline has shifted in recent weeks to in-fighting between the Mafia. Dutt says he was disappointed with TNA for losing focus on the Frontline.

"At the beginning, it was hot. It was something new. It had a lot of steam," Dutt said. "Things have fizzled. There isn't that emphasis on the Frontline as it was in the beginning. Just a bunch of heels taking over the babyfaces every week."

Dutt says Kurt Angle, Booker T, Kevin Nash, and Mick Foley have been good additions to the TNA locker room, but he's concerned TNA is looking for a Hulk Hogan or The Rock to give the company a credibility boost.

"I don't think one person is the answer to the problems the company has," Dutt said.

Dutt says there are too many authority figures on TV, which includes Mick Foley. Foley recently started a "Hardcore History" TV segment where he refers to other companies. Dutt says it's fine in small doses, but the constant references confirms to the audience that TNA believes it's second place.

"At times, it might be appropriate. If done at the right time, I think it adds to a story," Dutt said. "But to bring it up consistently, multiple times on a weekly basis, I don't think that's the way to go. Just acknowledging you are second place."[/font]


TNA signs a cross-dressing wrestler.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]TNA is hyping a new star coming in on their website with the following line: "ANDROMEDA: A New Era….A Unique Superstar…Coming Soon To TNA Wrestling"

Mexican talent Cassandro will be playing the character. He is known for his cross-dressing gimmick. Cassandro worked a dark match at the TNA tapings a few weeks back and is expected to appear at this week's tapings.

In Greek mythology, Andromeda was a woman who was punished by being chained to a rock as a sacrifice to a sea monster, but eventually saved by her future husband.[/font]


Torrie Wilson confirms she'll be in Houston for Wrestlemania 25 weekend.

Torrie Wilson posted a new blog on her MySpace page last week, confirming she will be in town for WrestleMania 25 weekend in Houston, Texas and will be attending the WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony. Torrie wrote the following blog:

Heyyyy there my beautiful guy's and gal's!
Well, we are on an official countdown to Wrestlemania in Houston!!!! I am so excited to attend the Hall of Fame ceremony! My all time favorite wrestler, Stone Cold Steve Austin is being inducted!!!! ....well, second favorite after Miiiiitch from the Spirit Squad of course! It's gonna be a grand ole' time! I am also taking my gal Danielle out on the town while she is here for Wrestlemania...can't wait to get her tipsy and crazy. (-: My girl Victoria is going to be visiting me soon and I CANNOT wait to see her....I feel like I am goin through withdrawals! She is coming to train MMA style at a gym in my area...maybe I will show her a thing or two and remind her who's boss. Joke Joke! I am so excited cuz I have been able to start running again!!!!! After my back surgery last summer running has been a scary thought for me. I love running so much and have done marathons in the past and have been really depressed not being able to do what I love to do....too scared actually to even try to run a mile! ....I guess I was scared to face the fact that I couldn't do what I did in the past & love to do so much. BUT..... I am back! I am up to 5 mile runs and am here to tell you that anything is possible! I feel great and maybe, just maybe, I will be running another marathon this year. This is my goal!!!! Now that I told you, I gotta do it. (-:
Ok I am out for now...love you all so much!!!!! xox


TV Premiere Date for WWE Superstars on WGN announced.

The new WWE Superstars show will premiere on Thursday, April 16, 2009 on WGN America. The show will air at 8 PM and again at 11 PM. It will last for one hour and will feature superstars from all three WWE brands. As far as we know, new material will be taped for the show.

Current advertisements for WWE Superstars feature Triple H, John Morrison, Rey Mysterio, Batista, The Undertaker, Jeff Hardy, Umaga, and MVP.

[color= rgb(255, 0, 0)]I don't know what the hell this show's gonna be about.[/color]


Four former Divas contacted for Wrestlemania 25 (possible spoilers).

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Former WWE Diva Miss Jackie (Jackie Gayda-Haas) told a fan at the Arnold Classic Expo this weekend that WWE approached her about wrestling at the 25 Diva Battle Royal at WrestleMania XXV, reports prowrestling.NET.

Tyler Turner reports: "Ran into Jackie at the Arnold Classic Expo in Columbus, Ohio this weekend. She looks great, and I chatted with her for a few minutes. She said the WWE had already contacted her about being in the Divas battle royal at WrestleMania."

In 2002, Gayda-Haas was awarded a contract from World Wrestling Entertainment after co-winning the second series of the reality television show Tough Enough. On July 8, 2005, Jackie was released by WWE along with her husband, Charlie Haas.

You can check out some recent swimsuit pics of Jackie looking hot at this link.

[/font]-[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]-- We can confirm that WWE officials have contacted two-time WWE Women's Champion and brief WWE Hardcore Champion Nora "Molly Holly" Greenwald about wrestling at the 25 Diva Battle Royal at WrestleMania XXV. However, it is unknown at this time whether Greenwald has accepted the offer or not.[/font]

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]-- WWE has contacted Debra to appear at WM 25. This came as a shock to many as Debra, the former wife of Stone Cold Steve Austin, aired out WWE in a FOX News interview around the time of the Benoit incident. She claimed that WWE knew about Austin using drugs and abusing her, but didn't do anything because he was the top moneymaker.

[/font]-[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]-- They've also gotten in touch with former WWF Women's Champion Wendi Richter. Richter hasn't worked for WWE since they scewjobbed her on the way to losing the belt to Fabulous Moolah in 1985.[/font]


Batista interview; why he decided to wrestle for a living, his thoughts on The Wrestler and more.

- The Philippine Star has a new interview online with Batista. Below are the highlights:

Why he decided to wrestle for a living: "Originally, I was looking to make some money. I'm sorry, but to be honest, I didn't really appreciate it or fall in love with it until after my first tryout. When I first tried out, it was so hard and it was so challenging. It wasn't at all what I thought it was going to be. I just kind of developed a passion for it."

Differences between Batista the character & Batista in real life: "Pretty much who I am on TV is who I am in person. Except, you know, I don't have an extremely bad temper. But I'm definitely not a pushover. Even sometimes, you can tell, if they put a microphone in my hands, it still is absolutely terrifying. It really is. I was a really shy and introverted kid. I had a real bad phobia of public speaking."

What it takes to make it in WWE: "It's all about commitment. You really can't do what we do if you don't love it and have a passion for it. Really, it's a hard-knock life. Some of the guys aren't as fortunate in terms of the money they're making. It's hard. Even for myself. I really didn't start making a good living until 2005 when I was World Heavyweight Champion. It's one of those things where you really have to be on the grind and you have to pay your dues. It's a hard-knock life. There's really nothing glamorous about it."

When asked what the plans for Batista at WrestleMania are, Batista said: "I don't know. Honestly. And that's an honest answer. I think I'll be physically ready to go by that time but Wrestlemania is our biggest show of the year and we really build up for it. The storylines are built up for Wrestlemania. Without much time to be built up with a storyline, I don't think I'll be fortunate enough to be a part of it."

Thoughts on The Wrestler: "Yeah. I thought it was depressing as hell. Just because…I've seen that person. A lot of times. It's heartbreaking to see old wrestlers who weren't as fortunate as the superstars of today. We can make a good living today and make enough money to last us the rest of our lives. They didn't have it as good in the past. They weren't part of, you know, a publicly traded company making billions of dollars. But they did it because they were passionate about it and they loved it and they went on the grind and they gave up their families. And a lot of time, they don't have anything to show for it except for those scars. It's heartbreaking."

Click here to read the full interview.


Elijah Burke talks about leaving the WWE and possibly going to TNA.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Former WWE star Elijah Burke says TNA is an option for him after being released from WWE last year. Burke has a good feeling about the promotion after a lengthy conversation with TNA's VP of talent relations, Terry Taylor. "We talked for about an hour and a half. Just sat there and talked. Had a good feel about him," Burke recently said on the In Your Head radio show about talking to Taylor at a wrestling convention. "Whether or not I'll actually go to TNA is to be determined. Whatever makes sense. You've got to make sense."

Burke acknowledged general concerns about TNA storylines that might prevent him from joining the promotion. "A lot of people bash TNA, but we all watch wrestling," he said. "There's a lot of things in wrestling that just don't make sense."

Burke revealed in the interview that he was considered for the Spirit Squad group that came from Ohio Valley Wrestling to the main WWE roster. Burke says he quickly shot that down before being brought on TV as Sylvester Terkay's manager a few years ago. "Couldn't go with that," Burke laughed about being offered a spot with the Spirit Squad. "Opportunity made available to me and my choice to accept it or not. I did not accept it."

After being on Smackdown, Burke led the New Breed group on ECW TV when WWE brought back the ECW brand. Burke says the sole purpose of the New Breed was to introduce "talented young men" and use the ECW Originals to establish new talent. He says the program was ended too quickly before they could tap into all of the possibilities. "Mindset and thinking was that we're not going to have the Originals for long. Let's build this and get what we can," Burke said. "Use these guys who are already established to establish our younger talent. Did I think it ended far too soon? Absolutely."

Burke says his favorite opponent was Rob Van Dam, who he praised as a major influence on his wrestling career. He said being able to hang with RVD in the ring when he wasn't a proven wrestler was a major step for his career.[/font]


Jake "The Snake" Roberts interview; talks about his relationship with Vince, if he'd work for WWE or TNA today and more.

The Sun out of the United Kingdom has a new interview online with Jake "The Snake" Roberts. Below are the highlights:

If he would like to work for WWE or TNA today: "I would but I don't know if my attitude would permit it... I've got a bad habit of speaking my mind - because I know I'm right... When I'm right, I'm right and when I'm wrong, I'm right. It doesn't matter... But when you speak your mind in companies like WWE and TNA it doesn't go down well... It seems that you just can't tell some people these days that they're stupid f***s and to shut up... You get these TV executives who've never been in a damn fight in their lives and they think they know more about it than we do... Like Vince McMahon told me: "The perception is that you're angry, you think these people are ignorant."... I replied: "Well that's exactly what I was trying to get out there."

His current relationship with Vince McMahon: "I don't call him very often! I do get asked to come and do stuff occasionally, like the Legends Of WrestleMania game. Vince is a businessman. Don't mistake that for having a healthy relationship with anybody, as far as he's concerned it's a product and he will do whatever is needed to make a buck out there. If he hired Eric Bischoff after the stuff he pulled in WCW, then anything is possible.

Whether or not he's been asked to take part in the Chris Jericho angle on Raw: "No I haven't. I saw the Piper thing and he was great. He doesn't look too healthy though."

Comparing today's product to the WWF back in the days of Hogan, Savage, DiBiase, and others: "I think the WWE today is excellent for what it is. It's a fast-paced 2009 product with all these explosions, music and special effects. But sometimes I feel it is too much. I compare it to movies. You can watch Die Hard 27, where dogs are killing humans, the world is exploding and all sorts of crazy stuff is happening. Or you can watch John Wayne threatening to pick the gun up. Because my god, you freak out when John reaches out for that gun. For me, John Wayne knew what the hell he was doing. He connected with you emotionally, not visually. I feel the current product is visually exciting, but unfortunately it doesn't hook people emotionally like we did in what I call the 'heyday'. Because when you hook somebody emotionally you've got them hooked for life."

Rating the current WWE roster: "There are too many cookie cutter wrestlers out there, the talent needs to go and learn to hone their skills and make their stamp like we did. The proof of the pudding is I competed in my last WrestleMania 17 years ago and they're still selling my stuff like hot cakes. Some of these guys won't be remembered in 15 minutes, let alone 17 years. There are some good guys out there too though. I love to watch Kurt Angle in TNA and I've learned to really respect Triple H. He's raised his level. Of course, Shawn Michaels is great and we had one of his first matches ever in WWE. I also love Santino Marella for some reason, what a lucky man to have what he's got going on with the Glamazon and the pet. It's a dream come true! Victoria is great, so it's a shame she's retired, and so are Rey Mysterio and Randy Orton. Randy is someone I'd love to work with. I wrestled his dad and my father wrestled his father. He has raised his level and has his eyes on the prize. He is certainly doing the right thing."

When asked if he has a lot of respect for Vince McMahon for paying for his rehab: "I certainly do. Rehab ain't cheap bro! Regardless of the reasons they did it - whether it was for love or because of the pressure Vine was being put under by the government over steroids and drugs - I don't care. If you save the life of one human being you should be sainted for it."

Click here to read the full interview.


J.R.'s new blog entry; speaks on possible Hogan vs. Jericho match, Austin's speech, last match at WM 25 and more.

Jim Ross has a new blog entry available on his official website. Below are the highlights:

- I read on the internet where Hulk Hogan is dropping hints that he "could" face Chris Jericho at WM25. Hey, that would be fine with me and I'm sure that match "could" be a possibility but for some reason I just don't see it happening. Obviously, Jericho is treading in Legend's territory and his WM25 match will like follow that theme especially this late in the game but I have yet to hear one conclusive name that will wrestle Jericho in Houston. I do know or strongly suspect it will NOT be Ric Flair. One has to surmise after what Jerry Lawler said about Jericho on Raw Monday night that a Lawler-Jericho confrontation is a distinct possibility at some point but that doesn't necessarily mean it will be at WM25. Chris Jericho and this entire Legend's issue has been one of the highlights of Monday Night Raw for this viewer for the past several weeks. Bottom line here is that Hulk is a great promoter and does as good a job as anyone in keeping his name out there to the wrestling public which is better than living and dying on TMZ.

- Don't forget to check out WWE.com for all the info on who is scheduled to appear at WWE Fan Axxess during Wrestlemania week in Houston. I know that I will be appearing at some point and may even be doing the "Broadcast a Match" function at Axxess. That is still to be determined. From what I have seen of the lay out, Axxess is going to be a great deal of fun, family friendly and affordable.

- I'm doing a little research on all the stars that Cowboy Bill Watts either discovered or gave their break and it is an impressive list. Even though Watts headlined several wrestling territories, set box office records at the old Madison Square Garden against his former tag team partner Bruno Sammartino, was part owner of the Atlanta territory and the Florida territory, I think, it seems that Bill's biggest contributions to the business were as an administrator and TV producer. I'm sure my introduction speech of the Big Cowboy into the WWE HOF will have significant time restraints but that's the lay of the land when a TV show is being produced to air later in the same evening.

- I don't expect Steve Austin to speak overly long at the WWE HOF Ceremony as Steve is a man that tells one what time it is and not how to make the watch. Knowing Stone Cold, he won't write a complete speech but will likely have a few notes and then allow his natural instincts to take over and then simply be himself which has always been good enough for me as more of today's wrestlers should practice Austin's philosophy. As you could probably understand, I am really excited about the 2009 WWE HOF Induction Ceremony as a limited number of tickets are still available for the Saturday April 4 event from the Toyota Center in Houston.

- What will be the last match to go on at WM25? Several emailers to this site have suggested it should be the Undertaker vs. HBK match. While I am looking forward to this Texas sized presentation involving two of WWE's most prominent icons ever including Taker's "Streak", and would LOVE to call this match, I see WM25 ending with either the WWE or the World's Title Bout. No one has told me and it's a nice problem to have but I'm thinking title when thinking of a show closer on April 5. There could be many "right ways" to end WM25 as it relates who gets the distinction of closing the biggest show of the year.

Click here to read JR's latest in its entirety.


Candice Michelle interview; talks about who she'd like to have a match with, possibly leaving the WWE and more.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]In an interview with the Cleveland Plain Dealer newspaper, WWE Diva Candice Michelle talked about a variety of subjects including who she travels with on the road, her thoughts on Stephanie McMahon & Torrie Wilson, if she minds bra and panties matches, the Diva to "watch for," and more.

In an interesting note, Candice says her WWE contract is expiring this October - and she doesn't know if she's staying. She has interests besides wrestling such as acting and modeling, and when the time comes near, she'll decide on what she wants to do.

It should be noted that WWE prefers to re-sign talent approximately a year before their contracts are set to expire. At least in part, this could explain why the former Playboy cover model has been sparingly used since the fall as the company may not want to invest the time and resources on an individual who could leave in the near future.

Here is the interview in its entirety:

10 Questions with Candice Michelle

You know what it is, you know what we do. It's 10 Questions with WWE Goddess, Candice Michelle!

* All questions are fan submitted.

1.) Submitted by Jordan: Candice, who are your traveling partners?
- Oh gosh, I travel with Lilian a lot. It's funny, when I first started with WWE, I would travel alone because I was shy and kept to myself. I wasn't sure how it worked but once you get yourself out there, you make friends. I've been traveling with Lilian for about 2 years now. I've also traveled with Victora, Charlie Haas and Mickie James.

2.) Submitted by Devon: What do you do when you get to the arena
- I immediately check the board to see if I'm on that night. It's like back in high school when you tried out for a team and they'd post the list. Yeah, I run to that board and check to see if I'm on. If not, I hit the ring with Fit [trainer] and work, work, work.

3.) Submitted by Ashley: Who would be your dream opponent?
- Now that I'm a lot less green, I would love to actually have a storyline, buildup with Trish. She was such an inspiration to me. Hands down.

4.) Submitted by Dennis: How do you get into all those VIP parties?
- It's not what you know, it's who you know

5.) Submitted by Kevin: What are your thoughts on Stephanie McMahon?
- Stephanie, God love her. She is so amazing. She always steps up to the plate for us Diva's. Always finding out ways to get more time for us or interesting storylines. She is such a powerhouse that I idolize her.

6.) Submitted by: Cody: What are your thoughts on Victoria's retirement?
- Victoria is such a good friend of mine. It was so sad seeing her walk away from the business. I talk to her almost everyday though. She taught me so much and I can never say thanks enough to her. She was always taking the backseat to let the younger Divas step up.

7.) Submitted by: Carolyn: Torrie Wilson. Thoughts?
- Torrie, another good friend of mine. She has so much potential, still. I think we'll see her back one day - maybe not as a wrestler but she still has an incredible fan base and she was never given the send off she deserved.

8.) Submitted by Adam: Where you annoyed with all the bra and panties matches?
- To an extent, yes. I mean it's for the guys, obviously but overall we showcase no talent in that. It was ok, here we again same thing. But the fun part was going shopping with the girls for new bra and panties.

9.) Submitted by Kate: Who's the Diva to "watch for?"
- Easy, besides me (laughs), Kelly Kelly. She is a star just waiting for her moment. She trains hard and is nonstop working at her craft. She's amazing.

10.) Submitted by Jennifer: Plans for 2009/2010?
- Win that championship, baby! Times running out, my contract expires in October of '09 so we'll see where I'm at in that point in time. I mean, I would love to get into acting and do some more modeling. We'll see, I love where I'm at right now. WWE is home to me and I can't take it for granted.[/font]


Kurt Angle says he could retire today and more.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]TNA star Kurt Angle recently spoke to an ABC News affiliate in Philadelphia about several subjects, including retirement. "I could retire now," Angle said. "I have money. I'm happy. I continue to go on because I love it so much. Am I going to pay the price later? You bet I will."

During his amateur carer, Angle willingly sacrificed his long-term health to win an Olympic gold medal in 1996. Angle broke his neck during the Olympic trials, then his short-sighted treatment led to several neck injuries in WWE.

"Couldn't use any steroids. Doctor came up with a method of using novacain and shooting me in 12 areas of my neck," Angle said. "I was making my neck worse, but I was willing to sacrifice my body in order to make the Olympics and win a gold medal."

Angle says the pain went away for an hour so he could wrestle his match without any feeling in his neck, but the pain came back ten-times worse after the medicine wore off.

"Really wasn't thinking about my neck," Angle said. "I was thinking about what I had to do to win."[/font]


Candice Michelle out with an ankle injury.

- Candice Michelle has been out with an ankle injury and is not expected to return to WWE television until the March 23rd edition of Raw at the earliest. According to the script for last Monday's Raw, Candice's projected return date is March 18th.


Evan Bourne interview; hints at return program, talks about Shooting Star Press and more.

The April 2009 issue of WWE Magazine has been sent out to subscribers and will appear on newsstands soon. In the latest issue they have a new interview online with Evan Bourne in which provides two interesting comments. One comment, Bourne hints that WWE plans to resume his feud with Mike Knox (something I had heard when he was originally injured) despite speaking in-character and how he was never told the Shooting Star Press was banned from WWE and when he started doing it, he was encouraged to continue. Below are the comments:

WWE Magazine: Other than polishing your Slammy Award for Best Finisher, how did you occupy your time while recovering from last October's injury?

Evan Bourne: That's a huge issue, because I don't even have my Slammy Award. Mike Knox walked off with it. You don't touch another man's girl, and you don't take his Slammy Award. All my friends have asked me, "Where's the Slammy? How come it's not on your mantel?" So not only do I hate Mike Knox, but so do all my friends and family. He crossed the line. Beating him up will be a top priority when I return.

WWE Magazine: How the heck did you convince the WWE brass to allow you to perform the once-banned move [referring to the Shooting Star Press]?

Evan Bourne: Honestly, when I signed my contract with WWE, there was no mention that the move was banned. I did the maneuver all over Japan, so when I got to WWE, I wanted to use it. It's my specialty. Once I showed them how I perform it, I was encouraged to use it.


WWE Films to relaunch Chuck Norris films.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The Hollywood Reporter noted today that WWE Studios is involved with a planned relaunch of the Chuck Norris 1980s "Missing in Action" http://www.24wrestling.com/news.php?subaction=showfull&id=1236364306&archive=&start_from=&ucat=6&#]films[/url] as there is work being done on a modernized version that would be set in the Middle East during the current Iraq conflict.

WWE Studios would be co-producers and help finance the film, which is being planned as a direct-to-DVD feature. There are no WWE talents yet attached to the film, which is currently in the script developmental stage.

The original Missing in http://www.24wrestling.com/news.php?subaction=showfull&id=1236364306&archive=&start_from=&ucat=6&#]Action films[/url] featured Norris (who appeared at WWF's Survivor Series 1994 as an out of the ring enforcer for http://www.24wrestling.com/news.php?subaction=showfull&id=1236364306&archive=&start_from=&ucat=6&#] Undertaker[/url] vs. Yokozuna) as a Vietnam veteran returning to rescue prisoners of war.[/font]


TNA signs Playboy Cover girl and Reality TV star.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]According to Entertainment Weekly, TNA Wrestling has signed Survivor: Amazon winner and former Playboy cover girl Jenna Morasca. She is scheduled to be making her debut on March 12 which will be next week's TNA iMPACT! episode.

"Everyone is covered in glitter and makeup and stuff and then goes and beats the crap out of each other," Morasca said on what attracted her to wrestling. "This is perfect for me."

Morasca won't be wrestling at first however she will start fighting after taking a "crash course" in the sport.

She told the magazine that she will be going under her real name. "I'm gonna be me because it's more beneficial to know it's me from Survivor," she explains. "If I had to take a name, it would be a terrible stripper name like Candy Cane Lane."[/font]


WWE releases Ryan Braddock.

We have learned WWE has released SmackDown talent Ryan Braddock. While Braddock's release has not been announced by the official website, Braddock has already updated his MySpace page with the text "now I'm free". You can view Braddock's MySpace page at this http://www.myspace.com/bradjay]link[/url].
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]
http://www.24wrestling.com/news.php?subaction=showfull&id=1236576566&archive=&start_from=&ucat=6&#][/url]Braddock, who has worked independents as Jay Bradley before being signed by the company, had done some enhancement work on the Smackdown brand but wasn't given much of any kind of television push.

Braddock, an Illinois native, was signed in December 2005. He held both the Deep South and Ohio Valley championships while working for those then-developmental promotions.

Braddock debuted on the Smackdown brand in August 2008. He was last seen on the brand defeating Festus by DQ before being wrapped up in duct tape and packing paper by Festus and Jesse as part of the "moving to MyNetworkTV" unspoken storyline during the final days Smackdown aired on the CW Network,.

In recent weeks, he had been doing a gimmick in Florida Championship Wrestling where he had been sitting ringside taking notes on competitors on a laptop computer.[/font]


More cost-cutting moves by WWE.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]-- In an apparent cost-cutting move, it looks like WWE is cutting down on flying in wrestlers they have absolutely no plans for at specfic television tapings. Often times, active talents are brought in regardless if they're scheduled to be used or not. According to the roster sheet for this past Monday's edition of Raw (http://www.24wrestling.com/imagery/index.php?gal=102]which has leaked online[/url]), a number of wrestlers were not brought to last week's show in Boston including both members of Cryme Tyme - Shad & JTG, Charlie Haas, Dolph Ziggler, Sim Snuka (whose adopted father appeared at the show), Candice Michelle and Jamie Noble. On the roster sheet, the missing Raw talents were specifically listed as "NOT AT TV." This issue isn't to the extent that it was in WCW, where they would fly every un-used wrestler to Nitro for no reason.[/font]


WWE releases controversial talent from their developmental territory.

[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]According to Mike Aldren of The Sun, WWE has released Patrick Brink (ring name Kaleb O'Neal) from his developmental contract. He was signed out of Maryland Championship Wrestling last June.

Brink's short run with the company was not without controversy. In December, Brink got heat from management because he added some tattoos to his forearms. However, according to his signed agreement with WWE, you need permission to do so - which he did not get. As a result, he was fined $1,000 and suspended for one week. However, after the fine, he started struggling financially as he was only making $500 per week. Brink informed officials about his money woes and they hiked his weekly pay to $750.

More problems arose this past week as Brink was late to an appointment for physical therapy which the company was paying for. Word got back to the office and they told him his recent behavior was unacceptable. They then informed Brink he was being let go.

Brink is the seventh name to depart from the organization within the past two weeks, following Scotty Goldman, Manu, Freddie Prinze, Jr. (creative team writer), John Carle (creative team writer), Afa Anoa'i, Sr. (on company payroll), and The Boogeyman.[/font]

 

[yardfather]

Originally Posted by 4wrestling

2) Money in the Bank. So far it's CM Punk, Kane, Mark Henry, Finlay, MVP, and Shelton Benjamin. This is shaping up to be the worst MITB ever. I believe two more men will be added. My guesses are Khali and Kozlov. MVP or Shelton better win this thing.

when did this happen? Or is it a spoiler?

 

[jdcurt2]

Backlash poster released:

 

[JAYxSF415]

Man, everytime I see Vickie Guerrero I feel the need to throw up..

 

[tupac003]

I am so dissapointed that the main event won't be Edge VS Orton....

IMO that could have been EPIC!

I don't know why the WWE feels they have to throw a 3 way at us. I don't want to see the big slow and cena VS Edge.

HHH/Orton? LOL

25 years of WrestleMania, and this is what you give me?

Right now all I want to see is Money in the Bank. HBK/Taker could be good.

 

[masterhammy23]

If CHristian is in MITB, I give him the win, but if it doesn't end up being him in i then my pick to win would be MVP. I think he needs a push. ForChristian MITB would allow him to go to different brands and get mcuh more exposure as a big name. If anybody else, but these two win it, or maybe Shelton,then it would be a huge mistake with a great opportunity to really get some different names in the title hunts

 

[jdcurt2]

Kizarny Released:

The following is from WWE.com:

World Wrestling Entertainment has come to terms on the release of Smackdown Superstar Kizarny as of today, March 19, 2009. WWE wishes Kizarny the bestin all future endeavors.

 

[trueshotaura]

rofl wrestling is so ******ed now, just reading these headlines just makes me laugh

 

[dakid4996]

No Jericho promo. whack

 

[jcuk3tm0]

Originally Posted by jdcurt2

Kizarny Released:

The following is from WWE.com:

World Wrestling Entertainment has come to terms on the release of Smackdown Superstar Kizarny as of today, March 19, 2009. WWE wishes Kizarny the best in all future endeavors.

thats funny, they had all those promos for him a couple months ago and now he's gone