The Latest: Raw, Hogan, WWE Toys

Here's some of the latest news revolving around the special Raw anniversary show, Hulk Hogan and a recall on wrestling action figures. The Raw anniversary scored a great rating for USA network of 4.4, with the second hour of the anniversary having the highest rating of the show (4.5). Hour 3 was rated second highest at 4.3. It was great tribute for the most part and these ratings indicated that fans were definitely tuning in for it. Read some thoughts on the Raw Anniversary here.

Eric Gargiulio of Philly Burbs.com has a great write-up on the Raw anniversary show. In the article he discusses the nostalgia of the various superstars who returned, the stars he was surprised weren't there, and a few hints at possible Wrestlemania matches. Read the full article here.

Hulk Hogan made his appearance on the 3 hour Raw this past week in which he promoted his upcoming "American Gladiators" show for NBC. Hogan seemed to be in good spirits and character despite his recent divorce and son Nick Hogan's troubles. Recently, Hogan became the latest to go to battle with Rosie O'Donnel. A journalist asked Hogan who he would like to take on on American Gladiators, and Hogan responded "Without a doubt Rosie O’Donnell,” Hogan said Thursday. “Somebody needs to shut that big mouth up.” Rosie retorted by comparing Hogan to her previous opponent, Donald Trump. (Read full story here.)

New York State had a recent recall of Toys which included "Wrestle Mania" action figures distributed by AA of America. The action figures are not licensed by WWE, but earlier this week Governor Eliot Spitzer's administration included them in a list of three products it said had excessive lead levels in their paint. (Read story here.)

Be sure to check back to the WWE Characters blog this weekend, as I'll be going head to head with the 2 authors of another WWE blog in Armageddon predictions.