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WWE Executive Explains Why WWE Network Won’t Be Available On Cable TV

Matt Boone
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WWE executive Michelle Wilson spoke to Multichannel News about the reason that the traditional cable/satellite distribution of the WWE Network will not be an option at this point.

Wilson noted that WWE decided to go with an “over-the-top” Internet-based distribution due to concerns over the WWE Network failing to “gain significant distribution” from traditional television-based outlets.

“None of those distributors were particularly looking to launch more networks; if anything they were looking to rationalize their line-ups,” said Wilson.

“When we started to look at the economic tradeoffs and how quickly we could we could go over the top as compared to traditional distribution, it really became apparent that we could really give our fans a much better user experience with an over the top service.”

Check out the complete article online at BroadcastingCable.com.

  • Backstage Update On Plans For WMXXX & News On Royal Rumble Surprises

    • Jerry Lawler Talks Health Scare, Explains Why He Was Pulled From Commentary

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    WWE Hall Of Famer Jerry “The King” Lawler appeared on the WREG-3 local television show in Memphis recently to discuss the health scare he experienced this past Monday in Baltimore, Maryland.

    Lawler told the hosts of the show that he went to lunch with his girlfriend and his stomach was feeling “queasy” before his food arrived. His said his girlfriend contacted his son Brian Lawler (aka Grandmaster Sexay) and told him. After that, the word apparently spread among the other wrestlers in the building at Old School RAW. As a result of the word getting around, Lawler was sent to the local hospital for a medical evaluation.

    Lawler then said that despite it being revealed that he was battling a minor stomach flu, Vince McMahon made the call to pull him from television commentary that evening as a precautionary measure.

    “The King” also mentioned that there ended up being even more fan concern due to the fact that he did not appear on the Old School RAW show. He said it was merely a 24-hour virus that his girlfriend is now battling.

  • Backstage Update On Plans For WMXXX & News On Royal Rumble Surprises

    • WWE Network FAQ: 26 Things You Need To Know

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    WWE sent out the following FAQ sheet answering many questions fans may have about the new WWE Network service, which officially launches on February 24, 2014:

    1. What is WWE Network?
    WWE Network is a 24/7 streaming service with both scheduled programming and an on-demand library. WWE Network will include all 12 WWE live pay-per-view events including WrestleMania 30, groundbreaking original series, reality shows and documentaries, and the most comprehensive video-on-demand library featuring all WWE, WCW and ECW pay-per-views and classic matches uncut and uncensored as well as replays of Raw and SmackDown episodes. Additional programming, including a live daily studio show coming this summer, and video-on-demand content will be added regularly.

    2. How much will a subscription to WWE Network cost?
    A monthly subscription to WWE Network is $9.99 per month (plus tax where applicable) with a 6-month commitment.

    3. How do fans purchase WWE Network?
    To subscribe to WWE Network, fans should go to WWE.com beginning Monday, February 24 at 9:00 a.m. ET.

    4. When can fans buy WWE Network?
    Monday, February 24 at 9:00 a.m. ET.

    5. When will WWE Network be available?
    Live programming on WWE Network will begin on Monday, February 24 at 11:06 pm ET with a live post-show immediately following Monday Night Raw. Video-on-demand programming will be available immediately at 9:00 am ET.

    6. What devices will WWE Network be available on?
    WWE Network will be available on desktops and laptops via WWE.com. WWE Network will also be available through the WWE App on: Amazon’s Kindle Fire devices; Android devices such as Samsung Galaxy; iOS devices such as Apple iPad and iPhone; Roku streaming devices; Sony PlayStation®3 and Sony PlayStation®4; and Xbox 360. Availability on additional devices, including Xbox One and select Smart TVs, will follow this summer. For more information, go to wwe.com/devices.

    7. If fans already have the WWE App, do they need to update it to get WWE Network?
    The WWE App will automatically update on iOS and Android-powered mobile devices to play WWE Network. To watch on connected devices such as Roku streaming devices, Sony PlayStation® 3 and Sony PlayStation® 4 and Xbox 360, fans must download the new WWE App, which will be available on Monday, February 24.

    8. What content will WWE Network feature?
    WWE Network is a 24/7 streaming service with both scheduled programming and an on-demand library. WWE Network will include all 12 WWE live pay-per-view events including WrestleMania 30, groundbreaking original series, reality shows and documentaries, and the most comprehensive video-on-demand library featuring all WWE, WCW and ECW pay-per-views and classic matches uncut and uncensored as well as replays of Raw and SmackDown episodes. Additional programming, including a live daily studio show coming this summer, and video-on-demand content will be added regularly.

    9. Will WrestleMania be available as a part of this subscription?
    Yes, WrestleMania is included with a subscription.

    10. Will encores of Raw, SmackDown and Main Event be on WWE Network?
    Yes, encores of these programs will be available on WWE Network.

    11. Will Pay-Per-View events still be available outside WWE Network?
    Yes, WWE will continue to offer individual pay-per-view events to TV providers. Fans should call their local cable or satellite provider for availability.

    12. Will classic WWE content be available on WWE Network?
    Yes, a WWE Network subscription will include access to the most comprehensive video-on-demand library featuring all WWE, WCW and ECW pay-per-views and classic matches uncut and uncensored as well as replays of Raw and SmackDown episodes. Additional content will be added regularly.

    13. Will “WWE Superstars” and NXT air on WWE Network?
    Yes, premiere episodes of Superstars and NXT will air on WWE Network.

    14. Will Raw, SmackDown and Main Event move to WWE Network?
    No, Raw, SmackDown and Main Event will continue to air on their current networks – USA, Syfy and ION television, respectively.

    15. Will shows on WWE Network be available in HD?
    Yes, all programming on the WWE Network will be available in HD.

    16. Will shows on WWE Network be available in Spanish?
    Live pay-per-views will be available in Spanish. All other programming will be presented in English.

    17. Will shows be closed captioned?
    Yes.

    18. Will WWE Network also be available through cable or satellite providers?
    No, WWE Network is delivered directly to fans through over-the-top digital distribution on the following devices: desktops and laptops via WWE.com; through the WWE App on: Amazon’s Kindle Fire devices; Android devices such as Samsung Galaxy; iOS devices such as Apple iPad and iPhone; Roku streaming devices; Sony PlayStation®3 and Sony PlayStation®4; and Xbox 360. Availability on additional devices, including Xbox One and select Smart TVs, will follow this summer.

    19. Will all of the programming that premieres on WWE Network also be available via on demand?
    Yes, all programming that premieres on the network will become immediately available in the video-on-demand library.

    20. How quickly will content that premieres on WWE Network be made available on demand?
    Content that premieres on WWE Network will be available on demand immediately after it airs.

    21. Does WWE Network programming contain advertisements?
    Most WWE programming on WWE Network will be commercial-free, however, there will be limited promotional content in select programs.

    22. Is the entire WWE library available through on demand?
    WWE Network will launch with more than 1,500 hours of on-demand content, including all WWE, WCW and ECW pay-per-views. New, on-demand content will be added regularly.

    23. Will WWE Network be available internationally?
    Beginning Monday, February 24, WWE Network will only be available in the United States. WWE Network is scheduled to launch in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong and the Nordics by the end of 2014/early 2015.

    24. Will all content on WWE Network be PG?
    WWE Network will contain a range of programming suitable for various audiences. Content rated TV-14 or TV-MA will be preceded by appropriate advisory messages recommending viewer discretion. Parental controls will be available for on-demand content.

    25. Can parental controls be set-up on WWE Network?
    Yes, parents will have the ability to block content that is rated TV-14 and TV-MA for on-demand content only. Viewer discretion is advised for live 24/7 streaming programming.

    26. Who can fans call or email today if they have questions?
    Customer Service support will be available beginning Monday, February 24 at 9:00 a.m. ET by calling 1-866-308-5684 or emailing [email protected]. Additionally, searchable Frequently Asked Questions and live chat service will be offered starting February 24.

  • Backstage News On Hulk Hogan’s WWE Return, New WMXXX Spoilers & More

    • Videos: Sneak Peek At New WWE Network Original Shows

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    The following are some preview videos that were shown during the WWE Network announcement in Las Vegas on Wednesday night. The videos are promotional packages previewing some of the original content that will be available on the new digital service, which will be available on February 24, 2014:

    WWE Network Demonstration

    WWE Countdown

    http://youtu.be/KE3xY4lTbeA

    WrestleMania Rewind

    http://youtu.be/iQ-2819gpSQ

    The Monday Night War — WWE vs. WCW

    http://youtu.be/4–qAilEagw

    Legends House

    http://youtu.be/NTLV-4L1lDM

    Video: WWE Network Demonstration, Find Out How To Use New Service

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    The following is a video demonstration explaining how to navigate the new WWE Network “It’s Way Over The Top” service, which as announced in Las Vegas on Wednesday night, will officially launch on February 24, 2014:

    WWE Network Launching February 24th: Full Details (Press Release)

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    WWE NETWORK LAUNCHES FEBRUARY 24

    STAMFORD, Conn., January 8, 2014 – WWE Network, the first-ever 24/7 streaming network, will launch live in the U.S. on Monday, February 24, featuring all 12 WWE live pay-per-view events – including WrestleMania® – valued at more than $600 per year for $9.99 per month with a 6-month commitment. WWE Network will also include groundbreaking original programming, reality shows, documentaries, classic matches and more than 1,500 hours of video on demand at launch.

    Fans can subscribe to WWE Network beginning at 9 am ET on Monday, February 24 at WWE.com, and for a limited time will be offered a free one week trial. WWE Network, the first 24/7 network delivered directly to fans through over-the-top digital distribution, will be available on desktops and laptops via WWE.com. WWE Network will also be available through the WWE App on: Amazon’s Kindle Fire devices; Android devices such as Samsung Galaxy; iOS devices such as Apple iPad and iPhone; Roku streaming devices; Sony PlayStation® 3 and Sony PlayStation® 4; and Xbox 360. Availability on additional devices, including Xbox One and select Smart TVs, will follow this summer.

    “Today is a historic day for WWE as we transform and reimagine how we deliver our premium live content and 24/7 programming directly to our fans around the world,” said Vince McMahon, WWE Chairman & Chief Executive Officer. “WWE Network will provide transformative growth for our company and unprecedented value for our fans.”

    WWE Network will also offer fans a revolutionary second screen experience for all original programming and live events via the WWE App, similar to the interactive fan experience currently available for flagship TV programs Raw® and SmackDown®

    WWE collaborated with MLB Advanced Media (MLBAM) to build a powerful solution for delivering 24/7 WWE content to fans. MLBAM will provide its industry-leading technology services, including video streaming infrastructure, application development and operational support for reliable cross-platform distribution.

    MLBAM has been at the forefront of streaming technology for more than a decade, powering its own live video subscription product since 2002. Last year, MLBAM managed live video content for more than 25,000 events, covering 80,000 hours of broadcast programming, across its sports and entertainment partners.

    “We applaud WWE for this bold, timely and strategic move to fully optimize the power and potential of live entertainment,” said Bob Bowman, President and CEO, MLBAM. “We are proud to work with WWE to help provide its millions of loyal fans with unencumbered access to distinctive and engaging live content across the devices they use most.”

    WWE Network is scheduled to launch in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong and the Nordics by the end of 2014/early 2015.

    Programming Highlights

    WWE Network will officially launch with the live Monday Night Raw Post-Show on Monday, February 24 at 11:06 pm ET, and fans will instantly have access to the most comprehensive WWE video-on-demand library upon signing up. In addition to live Raw and SmackDown pre- and post-shows every week, new programming including a live studio show and additional on-demand content will be added in the future.

    At launch, WWE Network will include:

    All 12 Live Pay-Per-View Events

    All 12 current WWE pay-per-view events – including WrestleMania – will be available to subscribers live, as well as on demand.

    Live pay-per-view 30 minute pre- and post-shows.

    Original Programming

    Every Monday and Friday night, WWE Network will air 30 minute pre- and post-shows for WWE’s weekly cable programs Monday Night Raw and Friday Night SmackDown.

    The Monday Night War™ – a series exploring the shocking real-life stories that fueled the mid-90s rivalry between WWE and WCW®. Battling for ratings dominance, WWE’s Vince McMahon and WCW’s Ted Turner engaged in a masterful game of one-upmanship, and in the process, elevated WWE Monday Night Raw and WCW Monday Nitro™ to all-new levels of pop-culture relevance.

    WrestleMania Rewind – a comprehensive look back at the most groundbreaking matches and dramatic moments in WrestleMania history, including never-before-seen footage and in-depth interviews.

    WWE Countdown™ – a one hour, groundbreaking, interactive, countdown series that puts the power squarely in viewers’ hands by giving the audience the chance to discuss and rank WWE’s most spectacular Superstars, unexpected moments, best catch phrases and more through digital polling and social media interaction.

    Coming in April: WWE Legends House™ – WWE’s greatest Legends reunite for a new title – only this time, they’re competing outside of the ring. Imagine a beautiful house in the suburbs – perfectly furnished, with gorgeous landscaping, a lovely pool and quiet, respectable neighbors. WWE Superstars from the past including Rowdy Roddy Piper, Tony Atlas and Hacksaw Jim Duggan will turn the neighborhood upside down as the house staff tries their best to keep these Legends on time, on speaking terms, and out of trouble in this new reality show.

    WWE NXT® – WWE Superstars and Divas of tomorrow face off every week on WWE NXT, a one-hour weekly show that features the brightest and best of WWE’s rising stars. WWE NXT showcases the Superstars and Divas from WWE’s Performance Center as well as appearances from WWE Superstars and Legends in an intimate setting. WWE NXT broadcasts from the state-of-the-art Full Sail LIVE venue on the Full Sail University in campus in Orlando, Florida.

    WWE Superstars® – a one-hour weekly show highlighting the best of WWE Superstars and Divas in heart-pounding matches. Features highlights from all WWE programming, as well as a special glimpse at everything going on in the WWE Universe.

    Video On Demand

    WWE Network will offer all WWE, WCW and ECW pay-per-views as well as classic matches uncut and uncensored, encores of Raw, SmackDown and WWE Main Event™ totaling more than 1,500 hours of video on demand at launch.

    All episodes of original programming on WWE Network will be available on demand immediately after they premiere, allowing viewers to watch on their schedule.

    IMPACT Podcast With Samoa Joe, Austin Aries Interview, More

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    SESCOOPS.COM reader Mark Kruskol sent along the following:

    Austin Aries (@AustinAries) was a guest on Man School, hosted by Caleb Bacon. You can check out the interview online at Soundcloud.com.

    – TNA has added the latest edition of the IMPACT podcast to their official YouTube channel. The podcast, which you can check out below, is accompanied by the following description: “Christy and JB are back with their first show of 2014! JB invites Samoa Joe to join him on a road trip in the first podcast done while driving down a freeway in Arkansas! Plus Chrsity gives us the details of her disastrous Hemme Family Holiday, and a preview to Thursday’s Magnus vs AJ Styles match on IMPACT!”

    http://youtu.be/VIak1oF9EVQ

  • Spike TV To Drop TNA In Favor Of Picking Up WWE? [Details Here >>]

    • Press Release With More Details On TNA’s New Multi-Year U.K. TV Deal

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    TNA issued the following:

    TNA Wrestling signs new multi-year deal with Challenge for the United Kingdom and Ireland

    Challenge becomes the exclusive home of TNA IMPACT WRESTLING in the UK & Ireland | New multi-year deal marked with broadcasts from the TNA MAXIMUM IMPACT VI UK Tour

    Challenge is delighted to announce a new multi-year partnership with TNA IMPACT WRESTLING. The deal secures more wrestling programming than ever before for fans and Challenge viewers with Challenge now becoming the exclusive home of TNA IMPACT WRESTLING in the UK and Ireland.

    Challenge will show all the exciting action from the TNA MAXIMUM IMPACT VI UK Tour, starting with a TV broadcast on Thursday 30 January 2014 from Glasgow’s SSE Hydro. This event will debut on UK television BEFORE it airs in America and the rest of the world – the first time this has happened in TNA history.

    Challenge’s coverage of TNA IMPACT WRESTLING’s extensive arena tour will also include double TV tapings in Manchester (January 31) and London (February 1) and a PPV event in Birmingham (February 2). Footage will also be recorded when TNA visits Dublin on January 29. All shows will be broadcast in 2014.

    Challenge has broadcast TNA since February 2011. With the new agreement the channel will continue to air TNA IMPACT WRESTLING every Sunday night at 9pm and TNA Xplosion each Wednesday at 11pm, alongside TNA’s special signature PPV events including Bound For Glory, Lockdown and Slammiversary. Challenge now also has the rights to broadcast some older TNA programming and matches.

    TNA President Dixie Carter comments: “TNA’s relationship with our loyal fans in the UK and Ireland is a cornerstone of our remarkable international growth. By continuing our strong relationship with Challenge, fans will still be able to watch free weekly TNA programming, the most-viewed professional wrestling programme across the region.”

    Stephen Ladlow, Director of Challenge, adds: “This new deal is terrific for both us and TNA because it’s bringing more content to fans than ever before. It also cements Challenge’s position as the exclusive home of TNA in the UK and Ireland. Challenge viewers can’t get enough of the thrilling fast-paced action and we have big aspirations to build on this appetite, starting with the first show in Glasgow.”

    TNA IMPACT WRESTLING is one of the top performing programmes on Challenge and is the most watched weekly wrestling programme in the UK. Sky is the parent company of Challenge, and this new partnership supports its commitment to increase its investment in homegrown content to £600m by 2014, and will let viewers see exclusive UK tour recordings and the superstars of TNA IMPACT WRESTLING in action.

    Challenge is available on Freeview channel 46, Sky 145, Virgin 139 and Freesat 145. Tickets for the TNA MAXIMUM IMPACT VI Tour are on sale now via www.gigsandtours.com/go/tnafan and www.ticketmaster.co.uk. Full details of the UK and Ireland events are:

    Wednesday 29 January 2014 | Dublin National Stadium | 0818 719 300
    Thursday 30 January 2014 | Glasgow The SSE Hydro | 0844 811 0051
    Friday 31 January 2014 | Manchester Phones 4u Arena | 0844 847 8000
    Saturday 01 February 2014 | London Wembley Arena | 0844 815 0815
    Sunday 02 February 2014 | Birmingham NIA | 0844 338 8000

    “TNA Maximum Impact VI Tour from Glasgow – Thursday 30 January only on Challenge”

  • Spike TV To DROP TNA Programming And Pick Up RAW And/Or SD!? [Details >>]

    • Hulk Hogan In Las Vegas Tonight?, Roddy Piper Misses Talking Point At RAW

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    – According to one source, WWE Hall Of Famer Hulk Hogan has been spotted in Las Vegas over the past couple of days. Whether or not his being in Vegas coincides with WWE making their “groundbreaking announcement” about the WWE Network tonight is unknown.

    – Apparently WWE Hall Of Famer “Rowdy” Roddy Piper forgot one of his main talking points during his “Piper’s Pit” segment on Monday’s Old School RAW show. Additionally, Piper reportedly had notes for his promo written on his hand.

  • New WMXXX Matches, Royal Rumble Surprises & More

    (Credit: PWInsider.com & F4WOnline.com)

    • AJ Lee Speaks Out On Kaitlyn’s Departure From WWE

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    The following are some new tweets from the official Twitter page of WWE Diva AJ Lee:

  • New WMXXX Matches, Royal Rumble Surprises & More

    • Jim Ross Blog: WWE Network Announcement, WWE TV Deals, Matt Morgan

    Matt Boone
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    The following are highlights from the latest online blog by WWE Hall Of Famer Jim Ross:

    On the WWE Network: “Big day for WWE fans and those that earn a living within WWE. The long awaited announcement regarding the new, WWE Network is set for later today in Las Vegas. This will be a critical day in WWE history, one way or another… One major key to the success of this Network is the development of NEW programming as it cannot be only about the old, tape libraries. I can see live, interactive programming being produced on a daily basis which, if true, then it provides several talents with opportunities to contribute to the brand and the network… The other key to the network’s success is the airing of ALL the PPV’s live. Right now, WrestleMania is the most, “must see” PPV in WWE and some might argue it is the only “must see’ PPV in WWE. That point is arguable and is dependent upon the attraction.”

    On WWE’s new television deals: “I see WWE getting a major bump in their rights fees from a cable network but I don’t hold the same optimism for TNA. Trust me, I hope that both companies score big time but its all about leverage in these types of negotiations (as in what have you done for me lately?) plus the ability to go LIVE on a weekly basis that most networks find very desirous.”

    On Matt Morgan: “Congrats on Matt Morgan on leaving the wrestling biz and getting an excellent day job where he can be a full time Dad and earn a great living with benefits.”

    Check out the complete blog online at JRsBarBQ.com.

  • Jim Ross’ Status For WMXXX, Royal Rumble Surprises & More

    • Jim Ross Q&A: Curt Hennig, World Widelife Fund, Daniel Bryan, Less PPV’s

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    WWE Hall of FamerJim Ross updated the Q&A section of JRsBarBQ.com. Here are some highlights of what he said about:

    If he called any Curt Hennig matches: 

    “Many. He was excellent. A natural. You must be new. Thanks.”

    If WWE thought they would win the lawsuit with the World Wildlife Fund:

    “Obviously WWE thought they would win the case as did I. I wouldn’t say it was chaos but it did cause of lot of extra work.”

    Daniel Bryan’s recent booking:

    “Daniel Bryan’s TV persona seems like a no brainer to me. The fans want him to compete and to be the underdog who never quits and wins his share of matches. Easy matter in my view to ascertain. Just listen to the paying customers.”

    If WWE would benefit from holding fewer pay-per-view events: 

    “Long term planning & sticking to the plan has more to do w/ creative than # of PPV’s. Bottom line is always going to be the talents.”

    Brock Lesnar News, Triple H To Appear On The Steve Austin Show Podcast?

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    – On Monday’s Old School RAW, we saw Brock Lesnar dispose of Mark Henry once again before getting into a confrontation with the Big Show.

    While at first it looked like WWE was setting up a program between Henry and Lesnar, Monday’s segment was done to put Lesnar over by “sacrifice” Henry en route to Lesnar’s feud with Big Show. There are no plans for a Lesnar vs. Henry match.

    – Steve Austin noted on Twitter that while in Las Vegas for WWE’s major announcement tonight, he will try to interview Triple H for his Steve Austin show podcast.

    Photo From Kaitlyn’s Final WWE Match, Big E Bids Kaitlyn Farewell

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    – Former WWE Diva Kaitlyn’s final televised match will air tonight on Main Event. Check out this photo from after the match – not a bad way to go out!

    Bdd8LdgIUAEk_lL

    – WWE Intercontinental champion Big E Langston tweeted the following on Wednesday about Kaitlyn leaving the company:

    TNA Worried About Spike TV Possibly Dropping Them In Favor Of WWE

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    According to various sources, there are people within TNA that are concerned about the possibility of WWE striking a deal with Spike TV and other Viacom properties if they don’t secure a new television agreement with NBC Universdal when their current deal expires.

    TNA feels that the sooner they can lock a new contract in with Spike, the better off they will be. TNA is pretty much depending on their Spike TV television deal to keep the company alive right now.

    Apparently the goal when TNA signed their most recent deal with Spike TV was for the two companies to work to grow Impact Wrestling’s audience to two million viewers. Obviously that never happened, and worse than that, the viewership has actually declined since they signed that deal.

    TNA’s current deal with Spike TV expires in the Fall of 2014, however negotiations usually start about six months before the existing contract expires.

    Jake Roberts Likely For WWE HOF, WWE To Do Old School RAW Every Year

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    – Following the ratings success of Monday’s Old School RAW, WWE is planning to make the themed show an annual event every January.

    – According to a source in WWE, Jake “The Snake” Roberts is a lock to be inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame during WrestleMania XXX weekend in April. There is still no definitive word as to whether or not Roberts will appear in the Royal Rumble match later this month.

    WWE Physician Elaborates On Status Of Dolph Ziggler’s Concussion

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    As previously reported, WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler suffered another concussion during his match with Ryback prior to the Old School RAW event went live this past Monday night in Baltimore, Maryland.

    WWE physician Chris Amann updated the status of Ziggler’s health in a new article published on the official WWE website. “He does, in fact, have a concussion,” said Amann. “His [symptoms] are starting to improve a little bit today. He will be seeing a neuropsychologist in Pittsburgh for further evaluation, and then his status will be day-to-day as his symptoms improve.”

    Check out the complete article online at WWE.com.

  • When Will Dolph Ziggler Return?, Update On Plans For Batista, Royal Rumble Surprises

    • TNA Knockouts Explain Their Recent Departure From The Company

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    TNA Knockouts Hannah and Holly Blossom recently posted the following message on their official Facebook page regarding their departure from TNA and OVW:

    “Hey Guys,

    As of late we have been getting a lot of questions about the impact tour, TNA and OVW, etc, and we absolutely LOVE you guys for it! However, as of right now we are no longer with either TNA or OVW. We are actually taking a little break from wrestling. After 9 years and with lots of new and exciting things that took place in both our lives last year, it’s just time for us to take a break! But we just wanted to tell you guys how much your support especially these past 2 years with TNA and Boot camp has meant to us. It’s been incredibly touching. We appreciate the tweets, the messages, the t-shirts, and the posters. You truly kick ass, all of you and we couldn’t be more grateful! TNA have been fantastic and incredibly understanding of where we are at right now. They gave us the most wonderful of opportunities with British Boot camp, the One Night Only ppv’s and Impact TV. For us, the two shy little girls who dreamed of being wrestlers at 12 years old, we have achieved more than we could ever have imagined! We are beyond thankful for all those opportunities and that that door is still open! Thank you TNA for making some of our biggest dreams come true!!

    As most of you will know, OVW has been our home for the past 4 years. We would be here all day if we went into detail about all that place has given us. So many amazing memories, learning experiences and growing up both personally and professionally. Our most favorite thing about OVW was training with Rip Rogers. We loved being at his training classes with the boys learning and taking everything in, Rip is simply awesome! When we first arrived he scared the crap out of us but we loved to wrestle and felt so good after his sessions. Being those two shy little girls (we know we were 21 by this point but very shy and little still applied. ) Rips unique personality and training certainly took some getting used to but It was wrestling after all and we just wanted to do it, we never quit or ran away. Some of those training sessions with those guys, pushing ourselves and completely stepping out of our comfort zones were the most fun and intense ever. Looking back, they helped shape the people we are today, they bought us out of our shells, gave us confidence and often made us realize the strength we had inside us that we didn’t know we had, along with a will and drive to succeed. So thank you Rip and all the boys for all those invaluable lessons and thank you Danny Davis for inviting us back and believing in us 5 years ago! We love you all so much!

    When we started wrestling we did it because we loved to wrestle, simply put. To this day wrestling, being in the ring, physically running drills and doing whatever Rip screams or calls out, is what we love to do. We never thought about proving to people we could do it or showing that girls could wrestle, we just wrestled. That is how we liked it and we are more than thankful for the road that followed!

    Coming over to America we never could have imagined all the amazing things we have got to experience or that here is where we would find our husbands. We feel incredibly blessed and lucky for where our journey has taken us so far. Through all these adventures we have developed quite the list of dreams and goals big and small that we would like to pursue. If you would like to stick around to see what the next chapter in The Blossom Twins story is, please do! We love you guys and appreciate all that you are to us!

    Thank you again to everyone, trainers, wrestlers, promoters back home in the UK, Futureshock wrestling, the Futureshock gang, OVW, TNA, you the fans for making this part of our story so far, so Totally Awesome!!

    Bring on 2014!”

    Keep up with the Blossom Twins via their official Facebook page.

  • Update On TNA Sale Rumors, TNA’s TV Deal With Spike TV & AJ Styles’ Future

    • Former Diva Kaitlyn Talks About Her Decision To Leave WWE

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    The following are some new tweets from the official Twitter account of former Diva Kaitlyn, who as we reported earlier today, officially parted ways with WWE:

  • Why Did Kaitlyn Leave WWE?, Royal Rumble Surprise News & WMXXX Updates

    • Latest Updated “AJ Styles Phenomenal One Tour” Schedule

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    The following is the latest “AJ Styles Phenomenal One Tour” schedule:

    The AJ Styles Phenomenal One Tour

    January 9:
    TNA iMPACT Spike TV 9PM (ET) AJ Styles vs Magnus

    January 18
    Magnum Pro Wrestling Omaha, NE
    https://www.facebook.com/MAGNUMWRESTLING
    AJ vs Jaysin Strife

    January 19
    Premiere Wrestling Xperience at Ziggy’s in Winston, Salem, NC
    http://pwxpro.com/new/
    AJ vs Cedric Alexander

    January 26
    Smash Wrestling in Toronto, ON

    Home


    AJ vs Chris Hero

    February 1
    Dreamwave Wrestling Chicago, IL
    http://www.dreamwavewrestling.com/
    AJ v s Christian Rose

    February 7
    Deep Southern Championship Wrestling Blue Ridge, GA
    http://www.dscw.org/
    AJ & Cody Roberts vs Corey Hollis & Shaun Tempers

    February 8
    CZW 15th Anniversary Vorhees, NJ
    http://www.czwrestling.com/

    February 15
    House of Glory Ridgewood, NY
    http://houseofgloryonline.com/
    AJ & Amazing Red vs Young Bucks

    Autographs Euros Plaza 3271 Richmond, ST Staten Island, NY noon-2pm
    http://richiedegregpromotions.weebly.com/aj-styles—feb-15.html

    February 16
    Autographs Scoop & Sprinkles Islip Terrace, NY Noon-2PM

    February 21
    ROH Philadelphia 12th Anninversary Show National Guard Armory
    https://www.rohwrestling.com/

    February 22
    ROH Philadelphia TV taping Show National Guard Armory
    https://www.rohwrestling.com/

    February 23
    Pennsylvania Premiere Wrestling Freeland, PA
    http://pennsylvaniapw.weebly.com/
    AJ vs Tommy Suede

    March 1
    Preston City Wrestling UK
    http://www.prestoncitywrestling.com/home
    AJ vs Lionheart

    March 8
    The Big Event for Highspots 10AM-2PM Flushing, NY Terrace On The Park
    http://www.sportsfanpromotions.com/the-big-event/

    March 14
    2CW Binghamton, NY
    www.2CWWrestling.com
    AJ vs. Eddie Edwards

    March 15
    UWE Harrisburg, PA
    http://theuwe.com/
    AJ vs AR Fox

    March 21
    ROH Dayton, OH Montgomery County Fairgrounds
    https://www.rohwrestling.com/

    April 26
    Remix Pro Marietta, OH
    http://remixmain.weebly.com/
    AJ vs Facade

    More will be announced soon.

    Visit www.ajstyles.org for news, exclusive AJ Styles merchandise and more
    Follow AJ Styles on Twitter https://twitter.com/AJStylesOrg
    “Like” him on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/AJStylesOrg/110336188978264

  • Latest On AJ Styles’ Future, TNA Sale Update, Jeff Jarrett’s New Promotion

    • WWE RAW Reaction (1/6): The “YES!” & The “NO!”

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    Noah Mark is back with his analysis of Old School Raw! Check out The YES! & The NO! of WWE RAW.” Comment below and tell us if you agree with this week’s picks.

    Complete WWE RAW Results (1/6)

    OLD SCHOOL RAW (1/6)

     

    Orton playing the generic Bad Guy, he's much better than this. NO!
    Orton playing the generic Bad Guy, he’s much better than this. NO!

    Ric Flair, Randy Orton, & John Cena Promo Old School Raw kicked off with the 16 time “Nature Boy” Ric Flair out first. He was quickly interrupted by former Evolution partner. Randy Orton. Randy Orton said he respected Ric Flair, but he needed the time more to address the one on one rematch putting himself vs John Cena for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at The Royal Rumble. Ric chimes in saying he’s not as good as he thinks. Orton threatens Flair, Cena ends up making the save.

    For me this segment fell flat, and seemed forced. Orton was seemingly going through the motions, with “I respect you, but….” going into generic heel mode. This is not The Viper I know and enjoy. I feel some people don’t give Randy Orton the credit he deserves for his promo and character skills, he makes great facial expressions, and conveys a cold-hearted disposition. Well normally he does, this promo didn’t do Orton any favors. Clearly Ric Flair is getting order, or he had a few in the back, because he sounded marble mouth in this segment. Cena didn’t offer anything to this segment either. One month ago Cena may have  delivered the best promo of his life in Seattle. Here, I felt the whole thing was boring. NO!

     

    NO!

    Jerry Lawler Health Update:  Earlier in the day we reported Breaking News Jerry “The King” Lawler was hospitalized. Of course with Jerry’s Heart Attack last year during Raw, your first thought would be another heart issue. Thankfully it seemed to be a stomach virus or food poisoning. however that didn’t stop the WWE from sensationalizing  by directing viewers to turn to the WWE App to get an update on Jerry Lawler. NO!

    Raw-1-6-DanielBryan.2jpg
    Daniel Bryan…er Wyatt. So far okay. YES!

    Luke Harper, Erick Rowan & Daniel Bryan vs. The Usos & Rey Mysterio Our first chance to see Daniel Bryan on TV as a Wyatt. First the original Wyatt trio appeared for their normal entrance, followed by the fourth Daniel “Wyatt”. Daniel Byran came out looking like he was in a Janitor or prison jump suit. A blank stare on his face, as he teamed up with Rowan and Harper to take on The Usos and Mysterio. I enjoyed this, I thought Bryan looked good with the group. They ended up losing the match due to Harper getting rolled up after a brief disagreement with Bryan as to who should come into the match when Rowan tagged both men. I would have preferred The Wyatts to win clean in this match. Their first week out and they’re arguing, I think an eventual separation from Bryan would be more effective if they were on the same page to start. But I’m still okay with this story line, provided I don’t have to wait 15 more weeks for Bryan to “Snap out of it”. YES!

     

    Too Cool & Rikishi just 3 of the Old School Legends at Raw YES!
    Too Cool & Rikishi just 3 of the Old School Legends at Raw YES!

    WWE Legends On Old School Raw: I was happy to see some of my old school favorites on Raw. Everyone had a good role on the show and for older fans this definitely was a great nostalgia feel. I will say that over the past few years we’ve seen a crop of “usual” legends. Most of which were not actually on a whole lot of episodes of WWE Raw. I would love to have seen a Raw with more attitude era and post era stars.  Some of them are still affiliated and working for WWE. Perhaps WWE held a few back for a Royal Rumble appearance. There was also no “old school” diva on this show. I know Mae Young was originally scheduled to attend this show, however Mae Young experienced  health issues and was unable to appear.  With Brock Lesnar, in attendance this seemed like a perfect time for Sable to make an appearance in the show.  YES!

    Big E walks though a hallway WWE Old School time warp.
    Check out the Full Old School Raw Results w/ More Videos.

     http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=6BucX5HK_mY

    Piper & Ambrose - YES!
    Piper & Ambrose – YES!

    Piper’s Pit – Piper’s still got it plain and simple. His interaction with The Shield, the hottest faction, group, whatever you what to call them. Piper pinching Roman Reigns cheek put goosebumps on my arm. I saw Reigns neck throbbing, great moment! People have compaired Dean Ambrose to Piper in the past, it was great to see Ambrose get to interact with a Legend. This would not be his only legend interaction on this episode of Old School Raw. I enjoyed seeing CM Punk and The New Age Outlaws come in to save piper. YES!

     View Page 2 to find out more YES and NO from WWE RAW Old School and our Overall Raw Rating

    Kaitlyn Comments On Her Decision To Leave WWE

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    As noted earlier, WWE announced today that Kaitlyn has been released from the company.

    The former Divas champion tweeted these messages about her departure:

    Breaking News: Kaitlyn Released By WWE

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    WWE.com has announced that former Divas champion Kaitlyn has been released, effective immediately:

    “As of Jan. 8, Kaitlyn (Celeste Bonin) will no longer be under contract with WWE. The former Divas Champion has chosen to pursue other endeavors outside the sports-entertainment world.”

    “WWE wishes Kaitlyn the best in all her future endeavors.”

    Kaitlyn signed a developmental contract with WWE back in 2010 and began training at WWE’s former developmental territory, Florida Championship Wrestling. She won the all-female Season 3 of NXT and made her main roster debut in December 2010. She won her her first and only WWE Divas Championship on the 20th Anniversary episode of RAW last January.

    Update: Kaitlyn Comments On Her WWE Release

    Video: Triple H Promises Tonight Will Change WWE Forever

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    Triple H’s latest sit down interview with a giddy Michael Cole focuses on tonight’s groundbreaking announcement from the CES convention in Las Vegas.

    Triple H would not give any hints about the nature of the announcement, but touted Vince McMahon’s track record of pioneering media industries, including cable television, closed circuit television and pay-per-view.

    It’s no secret that tonight’s announcement will be the highly anticipated unveiling of the WWE Network.

    WWE Accidentally Reveals Tonight’s Big Announcement Is The WWE Network

    WWE will be live streaming the WWE presentation at 9:30pm (Eastern) – make sure to check back at SEScoops.com  tonight for our coverage of the big event.

    Cena’s Dad Loses 50 lbs. Using His Fitness Program, HBK-UK, MVP Interviews Low Ki

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    – John Cena told local media in Pennsylvania this week that his father lost 50 pounds using his new ‘My Body Change’ fitness program.

    – WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels is headed to the UK for a “An Evening with Shawn Michaels” tour in April. Tickets for his April 29th show in Manchester, England can be purchased at Eventbrite.co.uk.

    – Former WWE Superstar MVP posted the following “lost footage” of an interview he did with Low Ki in Japan last year:

    http://youtu.be/ArLyAgNJ9ZQ

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