Thursday, November 19, 2009

Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair Ready 2 Rumble?


This Saturday, professional wrestling legends Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair will return to the squared circle for the first time in many years. The two sports entertainment icons are scheduled to clash as part of Hulkster's "Hulkamania Tour" in Australia. A recent Hogan-Flair press conference overseas garnered a lot of attention when Ric Flair attacked the Hulkster. In addition to bloodying up his former rival, Flair also was using his belt to whip anyone in range, and broke a photographer's equipment when he tossed a table into the press area. A recent ABC News article discussed Hogan's dedication to the Make a Wish Foundation as well as the press conference. (Read article here)

These two wrestling stars haven't been in the ring in several years now. Ric Flair was retired at Wrestlemania XXIV in a retirement match against his friend Shawn Michaels. Hulk Hogan last fought against Paul "Big Show" Wight at an independent Memphis Wrestling event. Both guys have been involved in the ring for different stories or TV shows since, but not for actual wrestling matches.

The actual tour will hit Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena on Saturday 11/21, Burwood Dome in Perth on Tuesday 11/24, Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Brisbane on Thursday 11/26 and finish up at the Acer Centre in Sydney on Saturday 11/28. Other wrestlers and personalities on the tour will include The Nasty Boys, Brutus Beefcake, Val Venis, Jimmy Hart, Rikishi, Orlando Jordan, Lacey Von Erich and Umaga.

See video footage of the Flair attack on Hogan here.

(Story Source: PWInsider.com)

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Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Playboy Buddy Rose Dead at 56


wrestler playboy buddy rose

Legendary wrestling superstar "Playboy" Buddy Rose was found dead in his home this past Tuesday in Vancouver, Washington. Rose who was in the first ever match on a Wrestlemania card was found dead on his couch. He was just 56 years old.

Rose's major star status as a wrestler came during the 70's and 80's, with his work for both the American Wrestling Association (AWA) and WWF. At the first ever Wrestlemania, in the opening bout, Rose played the part of a masked wrestler named "Executioner" who lost to Tito Santana. Also to Rose's credit may be the rise of Rowdy Roddy Piper. Rose and Piper engaged in an early classic wrestling feud while both men were part of Don Owen's Pacific Northwest Wrestling. While Rose didn't achieve any titles within the WWF he shared the tag team titles several times while a part of the AWA and various NWA's. ESPN Classic had been airing many of Rose's classic matches and Buddy Rose himself wrote fans a personal message regarding them at his official website. After his retirement from wrestling, Rose opened his own training school for aspiring wrestlers and also hosted a call-in talk show on a Portland radio station.

There's no official cause of death yet, but a family friend reported that Rose was suffering from a variety of health issues including diabetes. RIP to Playboy Buddy Rose, and deepest condolences to his friends, family and fans.

More info about Playboy Buddy Rose at Wikipedia.org

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Monday, March 23, 2009

Raw Preview 03.23.09


Last week on Raw, the Legend Killer Randy Orton saw one of his own Legacy members brutally assaulted and defeated by Triple H in the ring. Originally, the match was set as Triple H and Cody Rhodes to face off in the ring, but to the horror of Ted Dibiase and Randy Orton, a steel cage lowered down around the ring, trapping their Legacy member inside with The Game. From there, Triple H taunted Orton, showed his power and vengeance with a sledgehammer, and eventually Pedigreed Rhodes to collect an easy pinfall victory. With Orton and Dibiase only able to watch, you have to wonder what sort of revenge they will now have in store for Triple H. Will Orton and Legacy find a way to gain the upperhand on Triple H? Or will The Game once again use the power of being married to GM Stephanie McMahon to his advantage?

Raw also several new matches added to the Wrestlemania 25 card. The WWE Universe finally learned just who Chris Jericho will be facing in the ring at the big event. Jericho had called Ric Flair to come to the ring, and return from retirement to wrestle him. Flair was diplomatic in telling Jericho he knows he'd defeat him any day, but his retirement is official. Flair then brought out 3 legends who wanted to settle the score with Jericho. These wrestlers were of course the 3 legends that Jericho had insulted and attacked in the weeks prior, Ricky Steamboat, Roddy Piper, and Superfly Jimmy Snuka. The 3 men along with Flair headed straight down to the ring, all business, as they entered and surrounded Jericho. Steamboat, Snuka and Piper managed to trip down Jericho, but he quickly escaped the ring. However, waiting on the outside was Ric Flair who promptly delivered a punch to level Jericho. Jericho stumbled back up the ramp fuming from the attack, and later backstage said he was challenging Piper, Snuka and Steamboat to a 3 on 1 Handicap match at Wrestlemania 25. Fans learned that not only will Ric Flair be ringside for that match, but actor Mickey Rourke will be in attendance as well. What will the legends or Jericho have to say next with regards to their matchup? Will WWE fans hear any more from Mickey Rourke leading up to this match?

Two other Raw competitors who will be facing off at Wrestlemania are the recent Intercontinental Champion, JBL, and little big man, Rey Mysterio. These two have done battle in the past on Smackdown, but never for a prize such as the Intercontinental Title. Rey Mysterio was close to achieving the title for the first time in his career during Raw's IC tournament, but ended up losing. Now as of last week, Mysterio has challenged the self-proclaimed "Wrestling God" to a match for the gold at the historic 25th Wrestlemania. JBL has stated he plans to make history at the event. How will these two superstars prepare for their upcoming title match? Will one superstar have the upperhand heading into the event?

With Wrestlemania 25 just 2 weeks away, the WWE divas and superstars will be preparing themselves on Raw. Catch all the action tonight at 9PM EST on USA!

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Sunday, February 22, 2009

CBS Evening News talks to Ric Flair


ric flair with cbs evening news

Several days ago, prior to Mickey Rourke heading to the Oscar awards for "The Wrestler, "CBS Evening News' Jeff Glor interviewed legendary wrestler, the Nature Boy Ric Flair. Flair is considered one of the models for Rourke's character in the movie. The interview is a touching recollection by Flair of the glory of his career as well as its pitfalls. Flair also discusses the wrestling business and how people really don't understand the mental and physical aspect of the punishment wrestlers take all the time.

At one point in the talk, Flair says he's ready to go (in the ring again) but then says how really he still loves just being part of the Raw show, but doesn't think he wants to wrestle so much. Flair discusses his commitment to the wrestling business and how he would put on a show no matter how skilled his opponent was or wasn't.

At the CBS Evening news site there's a video interview as well as written. Here's an excerpt from the written interview:

"I walked out the door I knew I had 'em once I was standing here," Flair told Glor standing in one of the wrestling rings he once ruled. "Bingo. Any woman I wanted just like that. You, honey!"

His 36-year career has been defined by hard blows and hard living. A 16-time heavyweight champion, Flair has been divorced three times. He has made, and lost, a fortune.

But today, at 59, he's still "the nature boy."

"Wooo! This is what I do if I'm lonely at night," Flair said, modeling one of his robes. "I put my robe on and I walk around."

"I'm not sure I can think of anybody who has put more miles on his body, literally and figuratively," Glor said.

"There's nobody alive," said Flair. "I bleed like nobody else."


Flair also talks about his closest friends in the business and what he enjoys watching about WWE these days, his retirement, as well as several other topics (like where his "WOOOO!" originated). It's a great interview worth watching via the link below. (11 minutes long)

Read the full interview with Ric Flair here

OR

Watch the 12 minute interview here.

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Saturday, February 21, 2009

Legends of Wrestlemania Roster & Info


legends of wrestlemania andre giant hulk hogan game
(Legends clash - Hulk vs. Andre)

The highly anticipated new WWE video game, WWE Legends of WrestleMania, will be arriving next month for various video game consoles including Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. The game features over 40 legendary wrestlers including the likes of Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant, the Iron Sheik, Brutus the Barber Beefcake, The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin. Also included in the game will include managers Paul Bearer, Mr. Fuji, Jimmy "Mouth of the South" Hart, and Bobby "the Brain" Heenan. According to these IGN screenshots, the managers will play important roles in the outcomes of matches.

Complete Legends of Wrestlemania Roster:

Andre The Giant
Animal Junk Yard Dog
Arn Anderson Kamala
Bam Bam Bigelow
Big Bossman
Big John Studd
Bret Hart
British Bulldog
Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake
Dusty Rhodes
Greg "The Hammer" Valentine
Hacksaw Jim Duggan
Hawk Shawn Michaels
Honky Tonk Man
Hulk Hogan
Hunter Hearst Helmsley
Iron Sheik
Jake The Snake
Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart
Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka
King Kong Bundy
Koko B. Ware
Michael Hayes
Mr. Perfect
Nikolai Volkoff
Ravishing Rick Rude
Ric Flair
Rowdy Roddy Piper
Sgt. Slaughter
Stone Cold Steve Austin
The Million Dollar Man Ted Dibiase
The Rock
Ultimate Warrior
Undertaker
Yokozuna

MANAGERS
Bobby "The Brain" Heenan
Mr. Fuji
Jimmy Hart
Paul Bearer

(Source: IGN.com 2/17/09)

The highly-refined video game will features a realism that is said to capture the look and feel of the WWE/WWF of the eighties and nineties. As seen in the screenshot up above, the realistic look of the wrestlers in video games just keeps getting better. In addition to that, the telecasts, ring entrances and venues included in the game will portray this feel as game players can write new chapters in their own virtual WWE history books. There's a new "Combo Fighting System" as well which will feature a new grapple-based fighting system. The various wrestlers will have the use of their classic taunts, grapple moves, strike attacks and finishing maneuvers.

If that's not enough the Wrestlemania Tour Mode is sure to please fans. In this mode, players get to participate in classic Wrestlemania moments with the history of the feuds being shown via video footage on screen. In addition, the game offers the ability to "Create a Legend" of your own complete with customizable costumes, entrances, move sets and more. Add in the online functionality allowing players to fight one another from around the world and you've got the makings of a legendary Wrestlemania game!

WWE Legends of WrestleMania is currently available for pre-order at Amazon.com. Click here to pre-order your copy today!

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Thursday, February 5, 2009

Legends of Wrestlemania & THQ Loss


Video game website IGN.com has an early preview of WWE Legends of Wrestlemania video game for the PS3. The author discusses the types of matches you can play which can come from historical Wrestlemania bouts such as Wrestlemania III's classic, Andre the Giant vs. Hulk Hogan. In the article, the author gets to relive Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. The Rock from Wrestlemania XV in a game mode which allows you to either Relive, Rewrite or Redefine the classic match. Here's a preview:

When you jump into the WrestleMania Tour mode in Legends, you're going to have to choose whether you want to Relive (play a match as the person who originally won it), Rewrite (play a match as the person who originally lost it and try to change the Superstar's fate), or Redefine (play the match as whomever you want but have to deal with a modern stipulation such as a ladder) history. Aside from the fact that these matches are all packed together and you can only get to the next one by completing the one before it, this mode is quite a bit different than your standard exhibition match. No matter which history-defining choice you make, you're going to have a list of objectives that you need to complete to get points and build toward the event's gold medal. These objectives are the milestones of these WrestleMania matches -- it's stuff like Hogan slamming Andre and Stone Cold giving the Stunner to The Rock.


IGN will begin a full look at each of the wrestlers included in the new game starting tomorrow. Read the full IGN.com article here.

In a related story, the company behind Legends of Wrestlemania and many of the previous WWE video game titles, THQ, reported a huge net loss of $191.8 million for the holiday quarter. The company cited poor video game sales for the loss and also discussed cutting about 1/4th of its workforce in an effort to reduce costs. The stock tumbled down about 27% due to the reports. THQ is hopeful they can return to profitability, while analysts are skeptical.

According to MarketWatch:

The company declined to give a forecast for the current period, citing "economic uncertainty and limited visibility."

"Our focus for next fiscal year is to return to profitability and to generate cash," CEO Brian Farrell said in a statement. "Our fiscal 2010 plan will reflect the benefits of our focused product strategy and strong actions on costs."

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Monday, November 24, 2008

WWE Blocks Brutus the Barber Beefcake



(Wrestling beef...WWE says no more Beefcake)

WWE has officially sent a cease-and-desist order regarding Brutus the Barber Beefcake (real name: Edward Leslie) who is now a judge for the CMT show: "Hulk Hogan's Celebrity Championship Wrestling". The order (addressed to Eric Bischoff and Country Music Television, Inc.) asks that Leslie stop using his old WWF name of "Brutus the Barber Beefcake", which WWE claims they hold the trademark on. According to the WWE, Leslie stopped using the wrestling name Brutus the Barber Beefcake once he went on WCW several years ago.

Brutus Leslie and his lawyers contend that the WWE's cease and desist is nonsense, as Leslie has claimed to have been using the name Brutus the Barber Beefcake since 2000. Leslie is claiming just now that he's on Hulk Hogan's wrestling show, that WWE is going after him for use of the name. Possibly this is an attempt to stomp out the slight bit of competition from Hogan and Bischoff's new celebrity wrestling organization.

Hulk Hogan's Celebrity Championship Wrestling currently features Dennis Rodman, Danny Bonaduce, Todd Bridges, Tiffany, Frank Stallone and other celebrities competing in wrestling matches & challenges as they face elimination weekly. They are judged by the likes of Hulk Hogan, Eric Bischoff, Jimmy Hart and the aforementioned Edward Leslie (Brutus). Official site here

Check out TMZ's PDF file of Brutus Beefcake Edward Leslie's response to WWE's court order here.

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Saturday, November 15, 2008

Brock Lesnar - WWE-UFC Spotlight


Former WWE Superstar Brock Lesnar faces “The Natural” Randy Couture for the UFC Heavyweight Title this weekend at UFC 91 event in a Mixed Martial Arts battle. Lesnar was a multiple-time champion in the ranks of the WWE. He was also a well-decorated All American amateur wrestler prior to his days with the WWE. Many analysts say that Lesnar is continuing to keep WWE in the spotlight bigtime thanks to his MMA career, as he goes under the spotlight with big title matches. Lesnar disagrees and frankly doesn't care what his fights do for the WWE, as he left pro-wrestling with a bad taste in his mouth.

Recent comments from Lesnar regarding MMA & Wrestling (UK Daily Star):

“I’m here to represent the amateur wrestling. I’m an amateur wrestler at heart and I always will be.

“What the fight does for professional wrestling I really don’t care.

“Would there be other amateur or pro wrestlers that could make this transition?

“Absolutely not, because none of them have the background that I do.

“What only matters is next Saturday night and stepping in toe-to-toe and making things happen.”

He added: “In this day and age, you have to be well rounded in this fight game.

“I just can’t rely on my wrestling skills. Randy is a great, dirty boxer, and he’s great inside. I’m focused on a lot of different things and just trying to become well-rounded.”


UFC president Dana White has made comments that this UFC 91 event will be the most successful sports event of all time. White added that he believes WWE fans (including Vince McMahon) will all be buying the PPV to see if a former WWE star can take the title. Kevin Eck of Baltimore Sun's Ring Post blog states:

McMahon probably won’t buy it, but some of his wrestlers, such as The Undertaker and JBL, are big MMA fans and frequent spectators at the major events. Undertaker, along with guys such as CM Punk, Kurt Angle, Samoa Joe and others, have incorporated aspects of MMA into their style.


Eck also discusses how many wrestling web sites now cover MMA, and how Dave Metlzer of the Wrestling Observer newsletter has become an authority on MMA. There's been discussion of former WWE star Bobby Lashley making his debut in MMA next month, adding yet another former pro wrestler to the mix. Kurt Angle, currently with TNA, formerly with WWE, has hinted at his desire to compete in MMA as well. It's hard for either of these industries to overlook the other as the talent may move from spot to spot. Just as the TNA has capitalized on bringing in former WWE stars, UFC may be able to build its audience doing the same trick. However, it's tough to say if a few former WWE stars will ever be able to draw in the type of audience for a UFC event that a Wrestlemania PPV does.

Also see: The UK Daily Star's discussion of the WWE performance in UK.

Looking at the connection between pro wrestling and MMA

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Tuesday, October 28, 2008

In Memory of Conrad Efraim - Special Delivery Jones


On Monday, Conrad Efraim, better known as wrestler "Special Delivery Jones" died of a stroke at the age of 63. The former WWF star of the 80's was said to be in good health by his wife Kay.

SLAM! Sports reported the following from Efraim's wife:

"On Wednesday, he was laughing and singing and all of that," she told SLAM! Wrestling from Antigua. "He went to feed the dogs, and when he came back, he called my name. He said, 'Kay.' He showed me his fingers, and the next thing I know, his body went limp. We went to the doctor's, and he had three-quarters of his brain bleeding, covered with blood."

In the hospital, he could write but not speak. "He wrote, 'I want to go straight to New York,'" she recalled with a chuckle. "He recognized me, and squeezed my hand"


Born in 1945, in Antigua of the West Indies, Efraim began his wrestling career in the 70's working with WWWF. He eventually went on to win the NWA Tag team titles several times, and after being known as Roosevelt Jones for some time, he finally adopted the nickname "Special Delivery". The 6'1" 260 pounder was known as a great entertainer, capable of winning or losing a match in very believable fashion. At the first ever Wrestlemania, Jones lost to King Kong Bundy in a record 9 seconds. Jones told SLAM! Sports that the loss didn't hurt him all that much as it offered a big, big payday. S.D. Jones would go on to team up with wrestling greats like Rocky Johnson and Andre the Giant for many tag team matches. At one point, Jones teamed up with Tony Atlas and the two men tried several times for the WWWF tag team titles. The duo couldn't do it, with Jones saying it was his fault. Eventually, Rocky Johnson teamed up with Atlas and they won the titles, only to lose them 3 weeks later. Jones retired after over 20 years of wrestling action (1971-1991).

At SLAM! Sports, Jones' wife offered the following about Jones being a fan favorite:

"He loved it. He loved to be a wrestler," she said, explaining that he got energy from his fans; "They were a part of his life for years and years and years, and we do appreciate a lot of them. He really, really loved the fans."

Jones was last seen at a WWE event for Wrestlemania 22, where he presented the legendary Tony Atlas into the WWE Hall of Fame. He is survived by his wife, Kay, his son, two daughters, Donna and Abigail, and four grandchildren.

WWE.com has a writeup about the wrestler as well as photos and videos.

Info Sources:

S.D. Jones dies in Antigua

Conrad Efraim - Wikipedia.org

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Thursday, October 23, 2008

Classic Match #2: Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant - Wrestlemania III


hulk hogan vs andre the giant wrestlemania iii
(Hogan works to break free from Andre's clutches)

WWE Characters the Blog is on a week's vacation, so this week we're taking a closer look at 5 classic matches from WWE history! In match #2 on the AskMen.com list, fans witnessed one of the biggest feuds and battles in WWE history between two legends. Pontiac Silverdome in Pontiac, Michigan was the scene. March 29, 1987 was the date for Wrestlemania III with a showdown between two former friends. Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant squared off in a battle over the WWF Championship, with over 93,000 fans in attendance! The hype was there and the match delivered as fans wondered if Hogan could actually defeat the enormous, undefeated competitor, Andre the Giant.

The feud had been building up for weeks, making this a much hyped up match. It all started when Hogan was presented a special trophy for being WWF Champion for 3 years. His friend, Andre, came out to congratulate him for it. Later on, Andre was presented a trophy as well, for being undefeated for 15 years in his career. Andre's trophy was much smaller and when Hogan arrived out to congratulate him, the focus went onto Hogan. As Hogan continued his speech, Andre walked out on his friend. Later still, on an edition of Piper's Pit, Bobby the Brain Heenan announced he would now be managing Andre the Giant. After the big news, Andre challenged Hulk Hogan to a Wrestlemania title matchup, later attacking Hogan and ripping off his shirt and necklace. The fight was on!

At Wrestlemania III, the main event featured these two WWE legends, and they had a classic face-to-face staredown prior to the match starting. At one point, Hogan tried for a scoop slam, but Andre's weight was too much, and the Giant fell on top of Hogan for a near pinfall. Later on, Andre Irish whipped Hogan to one side of the ring and tried to give him a big boot. Hogan avoided the move and clotheslined Andre down. From there, Hogan finally scoop-slammed Andre in a Slam Heard Round the World! Hogan delivered his trademark Leg Drop as he came off the ropes and pinned Andre to retain his WWF title! The match lasted 12:01 minutes and with a record attendance of 93,000 fans, it made for one of the classic moments in all of WWF/WWE history!

Watch footage of the match at YouTube!

See the complete Top 10 WWE Matches list by AskMen!

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Saturday, October 18, 2008

Flair's WWE Legacy Continues


Ric Flair may no longer be wrestling in the WWE but his professional wrestling legacy lives on. And not only through Flair himself, but it may also live on through his son, who Flair is helping train for the WWE. According to ifight365.com and The Star UK in a recent interview with the legendary Ric Flair, his son Reid may be wrestling in a WWE ring within a year's time. Flair mentioned that he may even be at ringside for his son's WWE matches, but it's always up in the air whether Natureboy will be back to grappling in rings as well.

Flair hinted the following in the Sun UK interview as well:

I don’t think I’ll ever wrestle again, ” said Flair, who claimed that his son, Reid, is around a year away from making his WWE debut.

“I never say never. But I’ve no plans to make a comeback.

“When I retired from WWE earlier this year and I was inducted into the Hall Of Fame, with all the tributes from the world’s greatest wrestlers, that was it.


If you're a WWE fan in the UK area, Flair is appearing as a special guest star at 1PW's Third Anniversary Show at Doncaster Dome on Saturday, October 18. Flair won't be wrestling while other former WWE stars and British wrestlers will take to the mat. (Tickets are £50 ringside, £28 floor seating, £24 stalls, £10 balcony. Ric Flair question and answer session tickets are £25 in advance and £30 on the day. For tickets and information visit www.1pwonline.com or call Doncaster Dome box office on 01302 370777)

See the full interview piece with Flair at The Star UK!

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Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Legends of Wrestlemania Video Game Info


March 2009 will see the debut of yet another WWE video game title, "Legends of Wrestlemania". New details were announced about the game including it's combo-fighting system and "Create a Legend system" that allows you to create your own WWE legendary superstar of tomorrow.

From Videogamer.com of the UK:

The game is said to include a new combo fighting system and historically accurate representations of WWE telecasts from the Eighties and Nineties.

"WWE fans are extremely supportive of our leading fighting videogame franchise, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw, and they have wanted a Legends-based game for quite some time," said Tracy Williams, director, global brand management, THQ. "WWE Legends of WrestleMania has the right combination of talent, gameplay and presentation elements to extend the sports entertainment videogame experience and enable gamers to relive, rewrite or redefine classic moments etched in WWE's history books."

"WWE Legends of WrestleMania has a tremendous amount of potential with game enthusiasts, casual players and WWE fans of yesterday and today," said Nelo Lucich, senior vice president of interactive, JAKKS Pacific. "The impressive talent and managerial roster, classic visual elements and key gameplay features like WrestleMania Tour Mode will encourage players to revisit classic matches, create new history and secure their rightful spots in the WWE Hall of Fame."

In the game players will be able to relive the lives of more than 40 WWE Legends and take control of legendary managers who will play vital roles in matches. The WrestleMania Tour Mode will allow gamers to take part in key matches from WrestleMania events down the years and the Create-A-Legend system lets you develop WWE Legends of tomorrow.

Players will also be able to take the action online to compete on the biggest stages in WWE history.

WWE Legends of WrestleMania is due for release on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 in March 2009.


See more info at VideoGamer.com E3 blog

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Friday, May 30, 2008

The Rock's Divorce Details


Dwyane "the Rock" Johnson has finalized divorce proceedings with his now ex-wife Dany Garcia. According to Entertainment Tonight, one of the stipulations of the divorce will have the couple dividing up ownership of 8 different vehicles. From the settlement, the Rock will receive 6 of the 8 vehicles, but will pay a somewhat hefty sum for child support.

From Starpulse.com's May 30, 2008 article:

The wrestler-turned-movie star split from Garcia earlier this year after ten years of marriage and their divorce was made final last week. The former couple have a seven-year-old daughter, Simone, and Johnson will pay $22,000 a month in child support, according to papers filed at Mimi Dade County Court in Florida.

Both parents will share custody and also pay $5,000 each a month into a trust fund to cover Simon's education, according to TMZ.com.
(Source: Starpulse.com)

The Rock will be starring in the upcoming movie "Get Smart" based on the longtime TV sitcom series. In addition, Johnson has 5 more movies coming out in the future, so he should be able to afford all child support and divorce costs.

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Sunday, May 18, 2008

In the Media: Mick Foley, JR, Santino


Two of the WWE's commentators made appearances recently via radio and television show. Raw commentator Jim Ross appeared on NBC affiliate KFOR while Smackdown commentator Mick Foley appeared on The Opie and Anthony radio show on XM Satellite radio. In addition, both Santino Marella and Rowdy Roddy Piper were part of Jimmy Kimmel's late night show on ABC last week.

Regarding JR, from WWE.com:

WWE Hall of Fame announcer Jim Ross will be a guest on NBC affiliate KFOR-TV in Oklahoma at 4:30 p.m. CT today. In his appearance, J.R. will discuss his Hall of Fame announcing career with WWE, as well as the upcoming Monday Night Raw that will emanate from the Ford Center in Oklahoma City June 30. J.R.’s appearance will be available on KFOR.com after the newscast.


Check out KFOR.com to see footage of JR's appearance.

Regarding Mick Foley, from Rajah.com:

XM radio will be replaying this morning’s appearance by Mick Foley on The Opie and Anthony Radio Show today, reports a news item on Rajah.com May 15. Replays of the show will be at 3:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. ET.


Santino Marella along with Roddy Piper made a surprise appearance on the Jimmy Kimmel show on ABC. WWE.com offers the following blurb on the appearance:

Santino Marella and “Rowdy” Roddy Piper made a surprise appearance on ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! last night. Kimmel surprised Cousin Sal by inviting his favorite WWE Superstar, Piper, to his birthday celebration at Hooters. But the festivities quickly came to a halt when Marella crashed the party, insulting the guests, including Sal and Piper, Marella’s recent rival.


Check out the video of Marella and Piper on Kimmel now!

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Wednesday, March 26, 2008

WWE's 2008 Hall of Fame Inductees


WWE 2008 Hall of Fame Ric Flair

This year's WWE Hall of Fame class features 8 new inductees who are synonymous with pro wrestling and its legend. The class is headed up by the Nature Boy, Ric Flair who's had an illustrious and storied wrestling career spanning many years. Flair will be inducted this coming Saturday night, just one night before he faces Shawn Michaels at Wrestlemania 24 in a match Flair must win to continue his wrestling career. Flair will be inducted along with other wrestling legends and personalities such as female wrestler, Mae Young, Rocky Johnson, High Chief Peter Maivia and The Brisco Brothers. The final inductee was announced last night on Tuesday's ECW show, and will be the legendary voice of pro wrestling, Gordon Solie.

Below is a brief look at the members of the WWE 2008 Hall of Fame Class. Also see the entire list of WWE Hall of Fame Wrestlers.

Gerald & Jack Brisco - The Brisco Brothers won nearly two dozen tag team titles as a team including 3 reigns as NWA World Tag Team Champions in 1983 and 1984. Gerald was trained by his own brother, and held Southern Heavyweight and Florida Heavyweight Championships, as well as several other regional NWA titles. Gerald began appearing on WWWE shows in the late 90's as a close associate of Mr. McMahon (along with Pat Patterson) and even won the Hardcore Championship twice. Jack is also a former NWA World Champion, as he defeated King Harley Race in 1973 for the belt. The brothers are noted for their legendary battles with Terry & Dory Funk. In the late 70's Jack and Gerald referred a young wrestler named Terry Bollea to be trained for WWE. The man became Hulk Hogan, the WWE Champ in 1984. The two brothers also used their wrestling fame to run The Brisco Brothers Body Shop in the Tampa, Florida for nearly 30 years.

Ric Flair - The "Nature Boy" Ric Flair, a 16-time World Champion over his 35-year-plus career, was the first Superstar named to the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2008. Flair's been a part of NWA, WCW, WWF/WWE wrestling and has held many titles through each of the organizations. One of the originators of the 4 Horsemen, he's beaten many of the best in wrestling, including Hulk Hogan, Triple H, Randy Orton and Sting of WCW. Ric Flair is currently facing a "Career Threatening" stipulation where he will be forced to retire at the next match he loses. Flair's next schedule match is Sunday March 30, 2008 at Wrestlemania 24, against longtime friend, Shawn Michaels.

Eddie Graham - Eddie Graham was a successful in-ring performer, but was also the legendary promoter of the Championship Wrestling from Florida territory. Graham started in wrestling in 1947 at age 17 and was named "Rip Rogers", the supposed brother of legendary "Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers. Graham made Florida his home in 1960 and enjoyed 15 years of success. He had several reigns as part of the NWA Florida Tag Team Champions. Due to an unfortunate locker room window accident in 1968, Graham was sidelined from wrestling. He went on to be a promoter for Championship Wrestling from Florida in 1971, yet still continued to compete as a wrestler in Florida, Georgia and the southeast until about 1977. Eddie passed away on Jan. 20, 1985 at age 55. Graham will be inducted into the Hall of Fame by Dusty Rhodes.

Rocky Johnson - Rocky, along with his partner Tony Atlas was part of the fist African-American duo to win the World Tag Team Championship. The historic moment came on Nov. 15, 1983, when he and Tony Atlas teamed up to defeat the Wild Samoans for the tag team belts. Rocky also competed in the NWA during the 70's before making his WWE debut in 1983. He was trained by High Chief Peter Maivia. In 1972, another historic moment occurred when Rocky and Ata Johnson gave birth to Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Both Rocky Johnson and Peter Maivia will be inducted into the Hall of Fame by their legendary son/grandson, The Rock.

High Chief Peter Maivia - He is father-in-law of Rocky Johnson and grandfather of The Rock. He started off wrestling in New Zealand, and won numerous championships in the South Pacific and Hawaii. During the 70's he won multiple championships in both Los Angeles and San Francisco, including NWA Tag Team titles with Pat Patterson and others. Maivia trained his own son-in-law Rocky Johnson as well as "Superstar" Billy Graham. He is also considered a "blood relative" of the Wild Samoans, Afa and Sika Anoa'i. Peter Maivia was diagnosed with cancer in 1981 and passed away in 82' at the age of 45. He will also be inducted by The Most Electrifying Man in Sports-Entertainment.

Gordon Solie - Gordon Solie, nicknamed "The Dean", is the legendary voice of Championship Wrestling from Florida and later WCW, will be posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in his home state. Solie started out as an announcer making just $5 an hour before he went to Championship Wrestling. He had a gravely voice and a low key style as a commentator. He's credited with making terms like "Pier-Six Brawl", which he used to describe a wild brawl, and also for pointing out when a beaten, bloodied Superstar was "wearing the crimson mask." Solie sadly passed away in July 2000 at the age of 71 due to cancer. His memoir entitled "Gordon Solie ... Something Left Behind" was published in 2005 and became a best seller. Solie is the 3rd primary announcer to be inducted, following Mean Gene Okerlund and Jim Ross.

Mae Young - Before there were divas, there was Mae Young, who has been active in the squared circle for eight decades. Mae follows only The late Fabulous Moolah and "Sensational" Sherri as just the third female inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame. Mae Young was responsible for training her friend, Fabulous Moolah. Moolah and Young were also quite the pair, seen at many WWE TV shows and Pay Per Views, and had involvement in skits and matches during the past several years. Mae was the first-ever NWA United States Women's Champion, as well as the 2000 Royal Rumble bikini contest winner. She's currently seen in a Wrestlemania 24 ad featuring WWE Diva Kelly Kelly as a Baywatch type lifeguard.

This year's WWE Hall of Fame ceremony will be televised Saturday, March 29th, at 11PM EST on the USA cable channel. See WWE Hall of Fame Wrestlers List or WWE.com Hall of Fame section for more info.

See Wrestlemania 24 the Merchandise to get your gear for the big event!

Get Rev Theory's Light it Up available at iTunes!

See the Wrestlemania 24 scheduled matches!

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The WWE Hall of Fame List


There are many legends currently in the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Hall of Fame. You will notice that not only WWE Superstars appear on this list, but also sports stars such as William Perry and Pete Rose (who was banned from baseball's Hall of Fame). Both sports stars had roles in Wrestlemania history. The Superbowl champion Chicago Bear, William "Refrigerator" Perry, was part of the first-ever WWE Superstar and NFL Player Battle Royal at Wrestlemania 2. The Fridge is credited with eliminating two WWE Hall of Famers in that one match: Tony Atlas & Big John Studd.

Pete Rose may not be inducted into the Major Baseball hall of Fame, but has a place in the WWE Hall of Fame. He has been a guest ring announcer at WrestleMania XIV, WrestleMania XV, and WrestleMania 2000, and has even been manhandled by Kane (when Rose was dressed up as the San Diego chicken mascot). The following Hall of Fame list also includes posthumous inductees, including two late female wrestler/divas with Sensational Sheri and Fabulous Moolah. Vince McMahon also appears on the list, but it is the Senior McMahon who is responsible for WWE coming about. Vince Sr. took over his father's Capitol Wrestling early on. When the Capitol organization went by the wayside, the World Wide Wrestling Federation (later to become WWE) was officially born.

Here's the many wrestling legends and personalities who are currently in WWE's Hall of Fame.

WWE Hall of Fame List


    "Mean" Gene Okerlund
    "Sensational" Sherri
    Andre the Giant
    Antonino Rocca
    Arnold Skaaland
    Baron Mikel Scicluna
    Big John Studd
    Billy Graham
    Bob Orton, Jr.
    Bobby Heenan
    Bobo Brazil
    Bret Hart
    Buddy Rogers
    Captain Lou Albano
    Chief Jay Strongbow
    Curt Hennig
    Don Muraco
    Dusty Rhodes
    Eddie Graham
    Eddie Guerrero
    Ernie Ladd
    Fabulous Moolah
    Freddie Blassie
    George Steele
    Gerald Brisco
    Gordon Solie
    Gorilla Monsoon
    Greg Valentine
    Harley Race
    High Chief Peter Maivia
    Hulk Hogan
    Ivan Putski
    Jack Brisco
    James Dudley
    Jerry Lawler
    Jesse Ventura
    Jim Ross
    Jimmy Hart
    Jimmy Snuka
    Johnny Rodz
    Junkyard Dog
    Killer Kowalski
    Mae Young
    Mr. Fuji
    Nick Bockwinkel
    Nikolai Volkoff
    Pat Patterson
    Paul Orndorff
    Pedro Morales
    Pete Rose
    Ric Flair
    Rocky Johnson
    Roddy Piper
    Sgt. Slaughter
    The BlackJacks
    The Grand Wizard
    The Iron Sheik
    The Sheik
    The Wild Samoans
    Tito Santana
    Tony Atlas
    Valiant Brothers
    Verne Gagne
    Vince McMahon
    William Perry

See more information on the WWE Hall of Fame inductees at WWE.com.

See the WWE's 2008 Hall Fame Inductees.

More info on WWE Superstars and WWE Divas.

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Monday, March 24, 2008

WWE Tour Gives Fan Axxess


World Wrestling Entertainment's Fan Axxess Tour rolled through Miami on Saturday, March 22, which is its final stop before heading to the Wrestlemania site in Orlando this week. It's been a 10 city tour which has included former WWE legends such as Hillbilly Jim and Jimmy "The Mouth of the South" Hart. Curent WWE Diva from ECW, Layla has also been involved with the tour. Here's a snippet from Miami Herald's recent article on the event:

The first day in Miami brought legends Mouth of the South Jimmy Hart and Mean Gene Okerlund. The following day saw former Miami Heat dancer and current WWE diva Layla El return home to South Florida. El recently moved to Los Angeles for business opportunities and to enhance her skills in the ring under Jesse Hernandez at his School of Hard Knocks.

''I miss Miami every single day,'' said El, who celebrates her second year at Axxess. ``Even if it has been raining, this is great. I still consider Miami my home. That's when I had a day off, and I saw Fan Axxess was going to be here, I said, `I want to be there. I want to do this.'''

Along with superstar appearances each year, WWE, working with LeadDog Marketing Group, adds new activities to keep the tour exciting and fresh. One of the popular attractions is fans performing their own superstar entrances.

Participants are introduced with their choice of superstar theme music and are filmed walking into the ring. The entire experience is burned on a DVD as a WWE take-home prize.
Source: MiamiHerald.com

Check out the full article WWE Fan Axxess Tour puts shine on rain in Miami

Also includes a detailed list of events in Florida this week for Wrestlemania 24!


See a slideshow of the WWE Fan Axxess Tour here:
WWE Fan Axxess Slideshow

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Friday, December 14, 2007

WWE Superstars in NYC & More!


wwe superstars in NYC

- The United States Marine Corp and Toys for Tots Foundation is featuring a "Meet and Greet" at the NBC Experience Store (Rockefeller Plaza, NYC). The event will be this Tuesday December 18th, from 1-3PM and features appearances by Jeff Hardy and Lillian Garcia. You will need to bring a new unwrapped toy to donate, and will get to possibly meet a few WWE Superstars. Only the first 500 people are guaranteed to meet and get an autograph. There may be other wrestlers or guest appearances. If you're in the NY area head over there on Tuesday for a chance to meet Jeff, Lillian and maybe some other stars!

- Wrestling Edge reported that Jake "the Snake" Roberts has taken up the WWE's offer to pay for his rehab. Roberts reportedly checked into a 9 week program this past Monday, according to his half-brothers' ex-wife, Nickla Roberts. Jake is the first former superstar to allow the WWE to pay for his treatment.

- Wrestling Observer reported that WWE legend, Bobby the Brain Heenan is undergoing jaw surgery today. The surgery will take bone from his shin and thigh and use it to reconstruct the jaw. Heenan's jaw was destroyed by radiation through chemo therapy he received to treat throat cancer. The surgery will require him to be in a coma for several days.

- The Sun UK has an audio interview with current World Heavyweight champion Batista. In the conversation, Batista mentions his love relationship with Melina, how he felt about The Great Khali as champ, and much, much more. Read the full interview here.

- WWE Shop is currently offering several great deals for holiday shopping:

Use HOOKMEUP and get 10% your order at WWEShop.com.


Free Shipping on $60 & over at WWEShop!

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Monday, December 10, 2007

Raw 15th Anniversary Recap 12.10.07


Raw recap from Bridgeport, CT:


Raw opened with a clip from 1/11/93, the first ever Raw and then launched into a mix of the various opening theme songs and videos from Raw's history.

Vince, Shane and Stephanie came out from backstage and down to the ring. Vince welcome everyone to the show and talked of it being the longest running and rated prime time series in history. Vince said tonight will be a family reunion and family portrait. Vince remarked that his wife Linda couldn't be present due to a gastrointenstinal problem. Vince asked where the photographer was, and just then Hornswoggle's music came on. The leprechaun ran down the ring and grabbed Vince's leg. Vince told Shane, Steph and Hornswoggle that he knows they all want his money when he does, but he loves them all regardless. Vince began to count off for the photo to be taken but just then HHH came out from backstage.

HHH got into the ring and told Vince that amily is all about the people he once loved. HHH then said he would bring out the people Vince loved. First, out came Melina representing the WWE divas. Then out came Sunny, representing the past divas. Mae Young came out next and began to hug on Vince in the ring. Vince tried to explain to Steph and Shane why he had a recent fling with Mae Young, but Shane wasn't hearing it and left the ring. Next, HHH called out any WWE employee that was mistaken for a woman and was with Vince McMahon. Out came Jerry Briscoe, Pat Patterson, Bastion Booger, Big Dick Johnson and Abe Knuckleballer Schwartz.

Stephanie told Vince this was ridiculous and he's embarassed the family enough, so she would embarass him. Steph went over and gave HHH a long kiss before leaving the ring. Vince told HHH he hates him and all the fans can go to hell. Vince left the ring and stormed off up the ramp. HHH noticed Hornswoggle was upset but then called out the Godfather Pimp who brought with him the "Ho Train". All the women entered the ring and began to dance with the remaining superstars in the ring.




Carlito vs. Jeff Hardy
IC Title Ladder Match

Jim Ross mentioned that Hardy has a tough week ahead as he faces Triple H this Sunday for Armageddon. Carlito went out and grabbed the ladder early. Jeff tried to dropkick slide at him, but Carlito moved and then clocked Jeff on the head with the ladder. Carlito went to set up the ladder in the ring, but Jeff got in to prevent his climb. Carlito used a hard clothesline then placed the ladder in front of Jeff in the corner. As Carlito ran at Jeff, Jeff pushed the ladder out into him.

The match moved to the outside when Carlito rammed Jeff into the barrier using the ladder. Jeff escaped and was able to throw Carlito from the apron onto the ladder placed on the barrier. Jeff set the ladder up in the ring and climbed up. Carlito got up from outside the ring and did an amazing springboard off the ropes right onto the ladder. Carlito was able to flip over Jeff and slam him off the ladder to the mat. Raw hit a commercial break with both men down.

Raw came back with Jeff climbing the corner ropes with a ladder set up there. Hardy tried to leapfrog over the ladder onto a fallen Carlito, but Carlito rolled away. Jeff clutched at his leg and Carlito took advantage with the attack. Carlito put Jeff's leg into the ladder and stomped on it, then grabbed a 2nd ladder from outside. Carlito slammed Jeff on both ladders, then set up one to climb for the belt. Carlito set up the ladder above the one laying on the mat with Jeff. Jeff came too and climbed up behind Carlito to punch him. Carlito came down to work on Jeff more. Jeff hobbled around and Carlito beat him up against a ladder in the corner. Carlito charged and Jeff flipped him up and over onto the ladder. Jeff managed to hit a quick Swanton with Carlito down.

Jeff set up the ladder over one that was laying on the mat. Jeff began to climb, but Carlito stopped him by pushing the ladder to the ropes. Jeff tried to use a Twist of Fate on Carlito on the ladder, but Carlito reversed, driving Jeff into his kness on the ladder. Carlito climbed up the ladder and was near the belt, but Jeff quickly climbed up to punch Carlito off. Carlito fell to the mat then rolled out of the ring, allowing Jeff to claim his belt.

Winner: Jeff Hardy wins the ladder match over Carlito to retain the IC title.




Todd Grisham interviewed Shawn Michaels backstage. Grisham mentioned HBK was part of the very first Raw show. HBK said he defended his IC title on that show, and couldn't remember who he defended against. HBK then discussed Mr. Kennedy's antics last week. HBK said since Kennedy had a Jannety impersonator last week, tonight he could face the real version and see how he does. Jannety made a brief appearance then said he had to go get ready.

A highlight reel of Raw moments was shown featuring Undertaker, The Dudleys, 1-2-3 Kid, Stone Cold, New Age Outlaws, Hulk Hogan, and more. The Vince limo explosion, Mike Tyson vs. Stone Cold and Shane buying WCW were among moments shown.

World Class Championship Wrestling dvd ad was shown.

Santino in the ring said he was sick of the anniversary show and had issued an open challenge to anyone who wants to compete. Surprisingly Rob Van Dam came out from backstage down to the ring.

RVD vs. Santino Marella

RVD got into the ring and faced off with Santino. RVD started to do the self pointing for a fan chant of "Rob Van Dam", but Santino kicked him. RVD fought back quick to knock Santino down onto the mat. RVD then climbed the corner ropes for a quick frog splash onto Santino. After a Rob Van Dam chant from the crowd he made the pin for the victory.

Winner: Rob Van Dam wins via pinfall over Santino Marella.

A highlight video of Evolution was shown with moments from their various incidents on Raw. Jim Ross said Evolution would re-unite in the ring next.




ECW ad shown announcing tomorrow night's match of Elijah Burke vs. Batista.

Lillian Garcia introduced all four members of Evolution to the ring. Ric Flair came down, followed by Triple H and Batista. Batista hugged Flair and HHH as he got into the ring, then posed from the ring corners. Next, Randy Orton was introduced. Orton came to the top of the ramp, mic in hand. Orton said he wouldn't join them because he is the current WWE champ and won't let them ride the coattails of his success. Orton showed a highlight of when he became champ in the past and Evolution turned on him, attacking him in the ring.

Orton said he'd beat Jericho this Sunday to retain his champion. Orton said he'd rather be remembered for being a member of RKO, and then introduced Edge to the ramp. Edge with mic in hand told HHH that Batista won't have his title after this weekend either. Batista and Flair then called out RKO. Orton said they expected this and talked to Regal earlier. Out came Umaga and the 3 men headed to the ring for a six man tag.

RKO & Umaga vs Batista, Ric Flair & Triple H

The match was in progress after a break as Flair and Edge went to face off. Edge backed Flair to a corner and hammered away. Flair came out of the corner and chest chopped Edge several times. Edge managed to escape from a corner and flip Flair over his back. In came Umaga to further punish Flair. Umaga put a vice grip on Flair's shoulder down on the mat. Flair got to his feet but Umaga punched him down then tagged Orton in. Orton drove a knee down into Flair's face then whipped him to the corner. Orton tried for a dropkick after tossing Flair to the ropes, but Flair held the rope and Orton hit the mat. Flair managed to tag in Batista.

In came Batista to agressively take down Orton. Batista ran over and knocked Umaga off the apron. Batista tossed Edge in and beat him up. Just then Orton ran in and attacked Batista from behind. HHH came in to assist and all the men started brawling. HHH and Batista did double spine busters off the ropes driving Edge and Orton to the mat. As they stood up, Umaga clotheslined HHH and Batista down, then shoved the ref out of the ring. The ref called for the DQ and Flair went to start chopping at Umaga. Umaga reversed things and grabbed Flair for a Samoan Spike. Batista hit Umaga from behind. As RKO retreated up the ramp, Umaga was left in the ring 3 vs 1. Umaga was given a low blow from Flair, a spear by Batista and then Pedigreed down by HHH.

Winners: Batista, Ric Flair & Triple H win due to disqualification of RKO and Umaga.

Backstage Hornswoggle was attacking Molly Holly and Mickie James told him to stop. William Regal came out and said it was good to see Molly and then the divas left. Regal told Hornswoggle there will be a rematch tonight from Survivor Series, Hornswoggle vs. Great Khali. Regal told Hornswoggle that Finlay's plane ticket to Raw from Ireland had been canceled tonight and wished him good luck.




Slam of the Week shown with Hornswoggle hiring the APA to help him in his handicapped match against Carlito and Coach last week. After APA knocked Carlito and Coach to the mat, Hornswoggle jumped off the ropes for a tadpole splash victory.

Hornswoggle vs. Great Khali

Hornswoggle dove under Khali's legs and eluded him early, until Khali grabbed him by the coat. Just then Hulk Hogan's music hit and Hogan came down to the ring to face Khali. Hogan got in the face of Khali. Khali went for a punch, but Hogan caught his arm. Khali kicked Hulk in the midsection then started to punch him around the ring. Hogan started to shake and withstood Khali's attack. Hogan riled the crowd up then wound up his punches. Hogan delivered several shots to Khali and a final punch to knock him to the mat. Khali rolled out of the ring and his handler/translator, Singh pleaded him to stay out of the ring. Hogan motioned that he could bodyslam Khali, but Khali was held back from returning to the ring.

After Khali was escorted away up the ramp, Hulk and Hornswoggle stood in the ring. Hulk took the mic and spoke to the crowd. Hogan told the crowd he can tell Hulkamania is still alive and congratulated Raw for 15 years. Hulk told the crowd he was heading back to Los Angeles to work on American Gladiators. Hogan and Hornswoggle did the Hulkster poses for the crowd.

Winner: No contest as Hulk Hogan entered the match to beat up Khali.

More Raw highlights shown, this time with DX's various antics shown. Another flashback shown, this time with Vince McMahon in the hospital. Mankind showed up at bedside with Mr. Socko to entertain Vince. Vince yelled at Mankind to leave and in came Stone Cold dressed as a doctor. Austin attacked Vince with many hospital items.




15 Man Battle Royal

A battle royal involving 15 stars from WWE past including Bart Gunn, Pete Gas (of Mean Street Posse), Doink the Clown, Repo Man, Bob Backlund, Steve Blackman, Gangrel, The Goon, Skinner, IRS, Scotty 2 Hotty, Jim the Anvil Neidhart, Sgt. Slaughter, Flash Funk and Gillberg.

Bart Gun and the rest of the wrestlers lifted up Gillberg and tossed him over the ropes after carrying him around the ring overhead. Backlund was tossed out next followed by Doink who was tossed out by Al Snow. Snow clocked Gangrel with "head" and he fell out next. Flash Funk managed to eliminate Snow over the ropes. Pete Gas and Bart Gunn went out next. Flash Funk grabbed Blackman in a head scissors and flipped both of them out of the ring. Next Jim Neidhart eliminated The Goon and Doink.

Scotty 2 Hotty, Sgt Slaughter, IRS and Skinner were left as the final 4. Scotty 2 Hotty did the worm on IRS, but Skinner was able to toss him over the ropes soon after. Slaughter came over and put Skinner in the Cobra Clutch, but Skinner managed to escape. Slaughter avoided Skinner as he came at him near the ropes. With Slaughter looking out at Skinner, IRS ran over and pushed him out of the ring. As IRS stood in the ring celebrating the win, out came Ted Dibiase Dibiase pulled a wad of cash out and gave it to IRS. IRS then took his briefcase and proceeded to exit over the top rope to eliminate himself.

Winner: Ted the Million Dollar Man wins the 15 Man Raw Battle Royal.




Eric Bischoff was in the ring and told the crowd it meant a lot to be there on this huge celebration show. Eric pretended to wipe away tears and then said it seems Raw has stayed the same and he sees the same fans are there every time. Bischoff said he's there to take their money not put smiles on their faces. Bischoff asked the fans to stand and thank them for all he's done. As Bischoff was being booed all of a sudden Y2J's music came on and the pyrotechnics exploded at the top of the ramp for his entrance.

Y2J entered the ring and Bischoff asked why he was there if Bischoff fired him a few years ago. Jericho told Bischoff by firing him he made him realize he was burned out and mentally fried, so he had a fire lit under him to come back and be the new WWE champ. Bischoff and Jericho began to insult each other. Bischoff suggested Y2J forfeit his match for the title this Sunday and save everyone $40 so they don't need to buy the PPV. Jericho then delivered a right hand to Bischoff after a speech, knocking Bischoff to the mat. Just then, Randy Orton ran down into the ring to attack but Y2J managed to counter. Y2J knocked Orton down off the ropes and then put him into the Lion Tamer submission hold. Orton began to tap out franticly and Jericho went over and held up the WWE title, before leaving Orton laying in the ring.



Hardcore Holly & Cody Rhodes vs. Cade & Murdoch
World Tag Team Title match

The American Dream Dusty Rhodes came down to join Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler at the commentator table for the match. Cody started off against Cade, with Cade slapping a headlock on. Cade came off the ropes an Rhodes took him down with a clothesline. Rhodes tried to come off the ropes at Cade and Cade kicked him down. Trevor Murdoch tagged in and began to beat up Rhodes more. Cade and Murdoch managed to keep Rhodes away from Holly early, but Rhodes escaped Cade. Holly tagged in and began to beat up Murdoch, delivering a dropkick off the ropes.

Holly went over and knocked Cade off the apron, then went after Murdoch. Cade quickly came back in and tried to run at Holly. Holly moved away and Cade delivered a solid clothesline to Murdoch knocking him to the mat. Rhodes got into the ring and took Cade out, leaving Holly and Murdoch alone. Holly picked up Murdoch and did the Alabama Slam to capture the pinfall victory. New tag team champions Cody Rhodes and Hardcore Holly celebrated in the ring with Dusty Rhodes.

Winners: Hardcore Holly and Cody Rhodes win via pinfall over Cade & Murdoch to become new tag team champions.

Highlights shown of the various celebrities who have stopped by Raw, including pro athletes like Shaq, Lebron James and the Miami Dolphins. Also shown were Donald Trump, Kid Rock, Motley Crue, William Shatner and Dennis Hopper among others.




Raw flashback shown of WWE Divas, which started with Sunny and then Sable, followed by Chyna. Lita and Trish Stratus. Current divas Candice, Mickie James, Melina, Maria and Beth Phoenix were also shown.

Jillian Hall was in the ring with a headset on and told the fans she has a Christmas album coming out on iTunes tomorrow. Jillian began to sing "12 Days of Christmas" in her screeching voice. Just then, she was interrupted by Trish Stratus who's music came on. Trish came down to the ring with mic in hand and said she is so excited to be back on Raw. Trish began to tell Jillian how awful her singing was. Jillian told Trish she has the biggest ego in history. Just then Lita came out from backstage and down to the ring.

Lita and Trish got into each other's faces. Jillian started telling them to stop interrupting her moment, but Lita told Jillian it's her voice in general that's bad. Jillian pushed Trish and Lita away and started to sing again. Just then, the 2 divas grabbed Jillian by her hair and slammed her back to the mat. The two divas beat up Jillian around the ring a bit before she rolled out. As Jillian backed up the ramp holding her neck, Lita and Trish hugged in the ring.

Raw flashback shown of various "funny" moments from Raw's history involving Edge, Christian, Jericho, Rock, Mick Foley, Stone Cold and Golddust.

Another flashback shown from Raw wedding ceremonies which included Triple H and Stephanie, and the weddings of Kane and Lita.

Lita was shown backstage watching the wedding highlights and Kane came up behind her. The two tried to make small talk ackwardly. Just then, Ron Simmons came up behind them. After looking at Kane and Lita briefly Simmons yelled out his catch phrase "DAMN!"

Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler reviewed the matches for Armageddon including the Triple Threat for the World Heavyweight title, and Jericho vs. Orton for the WWE title.

Marty Jannety vs. Mr. Kennedy

Raw rewind showed Mr. Kennedy bringing out the fake Razor Ramon, Diesel and Marty Jannety to the ring to mock HBK. The real HBK came down to the ring and knocked Kennedy out of the ring.

Kennedy took advantage early as he twisted Marty's arm back. Jannety used a takedown and then a dropkick on the seated Kennedy. Kennedy regained control and delivered a dropkick to Jannety's knee taking him down. Kennedy kicked Jannety's hurt leg then put a Half Boston crab on. Jannety managed to crawl to the ropes forcing the ref to break the hold but Kennedy continued to work on the injured leg.

Jannety finally got to his feet and began to attack, whipping Kennedy to the ropes. Jannety scored a suplex but failed at the pin after. Jannety foreced Kennedy to the corner then climbed up to start punching him. Kennedy escaped and knocked Jannety to the mat. Jannety scored the "Rocker Dropper" slamming Kennedy to the mat. Jannety climbed the corner ropes and Kennedy got up to run over. Kennedy hit the ropes and Jannety fell onto the corner. Kennedy tried for a finisher but Jannety slid off. Kennedy managed to catch Jannety with a quick move for the pinfall win, then started to beat him up after the bell. Michaels ran down to the ring to save Jannety, as he hammered away on Kennedy. Kennedy rolled out of the ring briefly, but then re-entered and attacked Michaels from behind. With Kennedy in control, all of a sudden Triple H came out from backstage wearing a DX shirt.

Michaels got up and grabbed Kennedy from behind then tossed him over the ropes. Triple H got into the ring and handed Michaels the DX hat and shirt. The two did the DX crotch chop several times with the explosives then posed from the ring corners.

Winner: Mr. Kennedy wins via pinfall over Marty Jannety.

Vince McMahon shown backstage putting his suit coat on and getting ready to go out for the big announcement of the all-time Raw superstar.




Announcement of Raw's All-Time Superstar

Vince McMahon was in the ring and posed the question "Who is the greatest superstar in Raw history?" Vince said this person will have made the single biggest impact on Monday Night Raw. Vince asked a cop standing at ringside for the envelope with the superstar's name. Vince then asked for a drumroll and announced the greatest superstar in Raw history "Vincent Kennedy McMahon"! As Vince began making his acceptance speech out came Mankind with Mr. Socko.

Vince told Mick he knows he's jealous because he's not the best superstar, then told Mick to leave. Mick then put the Mr. Socko Mandible Claw into Vince's mouth. Mankind dropped Vince to the mat. Just then, the arena went dark and Undertaker's bell rang. Taker appeared from backstage and made his way slowly to the ring where Mr. McMahon was layed out. Taker got into the ring and removed his coat and hat as Vince got to his feet. Taker slapped his hand around Vince's neck and delivered a chokeslam to Vince, driving him down to the mat.

Taker posed in the ring and the arena went dark again. The lights came back on and Vince was shown in the ring layed out with Undertaker gone. All of a sudden shattered glass sounded and out came Stone Cold Steve Austin. Stone Cold posed on the ring corners with Vince still laying on the mat. Austin then proposed a toast and called for 2 beers to be thrown to him. Austin toasted to Vince and Raw for 15 years on the USA network. Austin layed down on the mat with his 2 beers but told Vince this wouldn't work laying down. Austin told Vince to get up and Vince slowly stood up. Austin handed him a beer then smacked his beer against Vince's. Vince tried to put the beer to his lips but was holding his neck in pain. Austin seized the moment and kicked Vince in the midsection then delivered the Stone Cold Stunner.

Austin then took the mic again with 2 beers in hand. Austin told the fans that the greatest Superstars on Raw are all the fans in attendance and all those watching around the world. Austin then asked the fans to give him a "Hell Yeah" if they wanted 15 years of WWE superstars to come down and have a beer bash with him in the ring. All of the Raw wrestlers past and present came down to the ring and celebrated with Austin drinking beers. Vince tried to climb back onto the apron but Austin punched him in the face. Austin and Hornswoggle then dumped their beers out onto Vince as Raw left the air.


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Wednesday, October 31, 2007

The WWE's Masked Men


In honor of Halloween today, let's check out 10 of the WWF & WWE's best masked men wrestlers. For the most part these are 10 of the best characters in the WWE ever to wear a mask to the squared circle. They range from superheros to monsters to Luchadors to even Hulk Hogan himself! Check out these 10 guys in honor of today's Trick or Treat holiday.

1) Kane

WWE Kane in Mask
The Undertaker's brother has now ditched the mask and comes to the ring as himself. Kane is famous for the black and red mask he used to wear in and out of the ring, which was said to cover up scars on his face. The mask was ordered to be removed on the June 23, 2003 RAW following a stipulation set by Eric Bischoff. Kane faced Triple H the night before and Bischoff told Kane if he lost, the mask would have to be taken off. Afterwards, Kane turned on his then tag team partner Rob Van Dam. Over the years, the mask developed him into one of the scariest forces in the WWE, much like a Big Red Michael Myers. And like Myers, Kane has his own horror film, "See No Evil".

2) Rey Mysterio

WWE Rey Mysterio
The only guy to wear a mask these days in the WWE. Rey has kept with his Luchador tradition over the years, wearing the mask to pay tribute. Rey continues to be famous for wearing his mask and continues to entertain us with his high-flying moves including the 619. His mask has been a stipulation in several of his WCW matches uncluding a hair vs mask tag team match where he and Konan faced The Outsiders. Rey's side lost, forcing Rey to remove his mask outside the ring. During 2001-2002, Rey wrestled without his mask for a wrestling promotion in Mexico for several years prior to his signing with WWE. When Rey came to WWE Vince McMahon asked that he wear his mask again for matches. According to Wikipedia, in Mexico, one could be fined or even have their license suspended in lucha libre by the Box y Lucha Commission for wearing a mask once it has been lost.


3) Mankind

WWE Mankind Mick Foley
Mick Foley has about 1,000 different personalities including Cactus Jack and Dude Love. The Mankind character first appeared in WWE back in 1996, feuding with the Undertaker and enlisting managerial services of Paul Bearer. At King of the Ring 1998, he had a classic showdown with the Undertaker in a Hell in a Cell match. Mankind wore a sort of Hannibal Lecter style brown mask over his face, and used the finishing move, "The Mandible Claw" aided by the help of "Mr Socko". It was a scary look but made for a great character in and out of the ring with his catch phrase of "Have a Nice Day!"

4) The Hurricane

Gregory Hurricane Helms WWE
Gregory Helms is like Kane as he ditched the mask and now wrestles as himself. Back in the day he had a great superhero gimmick which was born August 27, 2001, when he first started to use the costume. He'd come to the ring after the arena went dark, and you heard "Stand back, there's a hurricane coming through" announcing his entrance. Helms had a look similar to Green Lantern and wore a green mask over his eyes to match his costume and green-dyed hair. He first partnered up with Molly Holly aka "Mighty Molly" as a pair of superheros. Later on after Molly left his side, he added two more heroes to his team, with a superhero in training, Rosey, and Stacy Keibler as their manager, "Super Stacy". On October 17, 2005 Raw, Helms ripped off his mask and hit Rosey, turning on him. Later Helms said he was fed up with trying to be funny and using this gimmick to entertain fans.


5) The Blue Blazer

WWE Owen Hart as Blue Blazer
RIP to Owen Hart. He received his big WWE break back in 1989 when he was put into WWE as "The Blue Blazer" but left WWE around 1990. After Owen had been back in WWE for many years as simply Owen Hart, he had won the IC title and tag title several times. He eventually returned to the Blazer gimmick in 1999. A match was set for Blue Blazer to challenge the Godfather for his IC title at the "Over the Edge" Pay Per View. However as Blue Blazer was lowered from above the ring in a harness, something went terribly wrong. The harness may not have been able to properly support Owen's weight and he fell 70 feet to the ring, with his head hitting the top turnbuckle head first. An unfortunate end to a great career.

6) The Patriot

WWF WWE The Patriot
This guy seemed to have a strange short-lived career in WWE, and was considered to be the good All American wrestler. At one time he was competing with the legendary Bret Hart for his WWE title back in 1997. However, Hart continued to successfully defend his title, and The Patriot seemed to vanish along with his "good values" he was promoting to fans.


7) The Conquistadors

WWF WWE Conquistadors
A tag team similar to Rey Mysterio in the sense of the traditional Luchador's style of wrestling. They wore full gold including gold masks which will remind you of the "Nacho Libre" character. Usually referred to as "Conquistador #1" and "Conquistador #2", these guys were usually the team other tag teams beat on their climb up the tag ranks. They fought and lost to various tag teams including The Rockers, The Killer Bees, and The Young Stallions. Over the span of the Conquistador team's existence (1987-1989), many wrestlers played their part, with the originals being José Luis Rivera and José Estrada (Sr.) two Puerto Rican wrestlers. Their career highlight came as they were part of the 10-team (20 man) elimination match at the Survivor Series 1988.


8) Max Moon

Max Moon WWE
A very short lived character in the WWF/WWE (1992) named Maximillian Moon, first played by wrestler Konnan, it was based on a Japanese cyborg cartoon. The Max Moon costume is said to have cost $1,300 as it included advanced circuitry, a semi-working jetpack and a pyrotechnics gun. Moon would do a bit of a dance in the ring and his costume included flashy lights all around it, as he was said to be a visitor from another planet. Max Moon never saw WWE glory, and Konnan eventually left the company. The character was played briefly by another man, Paul Diamond, before the character disappeared altogether.


9) Mr. America


Hulk Hogan as Mr. America WWE
At one point even the immortal Hulk Hogan wore a mask, as the "Mr. America" character. The spoof superhero character came about in 2003 when Vince McMahon ordered Hogan to sit out rest of his WWE contract and not wrestle. However, Mr. America emerged, coming to the ring to Hogan's same theme music, and using his same moves in the ring. He once saved a wrestling fan Zach Gowen from humiliation in the ring and also did battle with Mr. McMahon, always being careful not to reveal he was really the Hulkster. The character also had some controversy, as it came under fire from Marvel comics for being similar to Captain America in design.

10)The Repo Man

Repo Man WWF WWE
Played by Barry Darsow of Demolition "Smash" fame back in 1991, he was a guy who came to "repossess" wrestler's items. He'd carry a rope with a hook on it as well, which came into play in several of his matches as a foreign object. Wearing a very simple black mask which just covered his eyes, similar to a burglar. He feuded with the likes of Tito Santana, Tatanka and British Bulldog during his two year stint as Repo Man and returned in Wrestlemania X7 in 2001 for a "Gimmick Battle Royal" consisting of the likes of Doink, Kamala, Iron Sheik and Duke the Dumpster Droese.

There's 10 all-time great masked characters from the WWF & WWE. Honorable mention goes out to guys who simply wear face paint such as Doink the Clown, Kamala, Umaga, Boogeyman, Golddust and Papa Shango.




WWE.com is also running a Poll in honor of Halloween. Which WWE Diva would you most like to see as a trick or treater on your doorstep?

Here's how the voting looked this morning:

Jillian 4.54 % 17359 Votes
Beth Phoenix 28.99 % 110798 Votes
Lilian Garcia 14.60 % 55828 Votes
Maria 11.57 % 44225 Votes
Mickie James 30.47 % 116446 Votes
Melina 9.80 % 37469 Votes

May all fans of WWE and wrestling have a happy, safe and fun Halloween and beware of the above masked men...

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