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WWE Taping Next Week’s RAW Tonight, Jim Ross Puts Over Daniel Bryan, Bella Injury

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– WWE Diva Nikki Bella is still dealing with a shin injury. Last night on RAW, she came to the ring (during a commercial break) for the MizTV segment on crutches.

* PHOTOS of BRIE BELLA’s WARDROBE MALFUNCTION From RAW (18+)

– Due to WWE’s upcoming overseas tour, next week’s (7/29) episode of Monday Night RAW will be taped tonight from Lardeo, Texas from the Laredo Energy Center. Advertised for the show:

  • John Cena vs. Ryback in a Tables Match
  • Daniel Bryan vs. Kane

SEScoops.com will have Live Results of the tapings tonight – so check back later for those.

Tomorrow night (Wednesday), WWE will tape this Friday’s SmackDown (7/26) from Corpus Christi, Texas.

On Thursday, WWE tapes the August 2nd edition of Smackdown (next Friday) from Houston, TX.

– WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross tweeted the following after RAW regarding Daniel Bryan’s performance on the show:

WWE & E! Joining Forces With Make-A-Wish For “One In A Lifetime” Experiences

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World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. : WWE® and E! Entertainment Join Forces to Support Make-A-Wish®

WWE and E! Entertainment today launched the first-ever Superstars for Hope fundraising initiative to support Make-A-Wish, featuring chances to win once-in-a-lifetime experiences available to anyone who makes a contribution. The entertainment powerhouses will also host a Superstars for Hope red carpet party in Los Angeles on Thursday, August 15 at the Beverly Hills Hotel as a part of WWE’s SummerSlam® Week.

Starting today, for every $10 fans and supporters contribute through fundraising partner Omaze, they will receive five chances to win one of two packages donated by WWE and E! Entertainment.

“We are honored to be part of Superstars for Hope in support of Make-A-Wish,” said Suzanne Kolb, President, E! “This wonderful organization endlessly inspires and their incredible work brightens and enriches the lives of so many children and families.”

“WWE’s commitment to granting life-changing experiences is unmatched,” said David Williams, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. “We know that having E! join forces with them will mean more life-changing wishes are granted for children with life-threatening medical conditions.”

“We are proud to partner with E! on Superstars for Hope and continue our long-standing support of Make-A-Wish,” said Vince McMahon, WWE Chairman and CEO. “This is an opportunity for so many people to help children’s wishes come true.”

Once-in-a-lifetime experience packages include:

* WrestleMania 30 New Orleans Party Package: A VIP trip to WrestleMania for four which includes travel and accommodations, access to the WrestleMania 30 red carpet kickoff party, the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and WrestleMania Axxess, along with behind-the-scenes tours, meet-and-greets with WWE Superstars, Divas and Legends, as well as a WWE Championship title signed by WWE Champions John Cena®, Triple H®, Brock Lesnar? and Undertaker®.

* E! Exclusive Hollywood Experience: A three-day trip to Los Angeles to attend a taping of an E! show such as E! News, Fashion Police, The Soup or Chelsea Lately, a gift basket with Hollywood’s hottest spa essentials and $1,000 spending money for a shopping spree with WWE Divas, The Bella Twins.

Backstage News: WWE Furious Over Bella Slip, Reason Big Show Missed RAW

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-The reason The Big Show did not return on RAW on Monday night as advertised was because of his knee injury. Show was still noticably limping as recently as the Money In The Bank pay-per-view. WWE officials may end up bringing him back early regardless, as they likely want him back in time to shoot an angle for SummerSlam.

-According to reports, WWE officials were said to be furious at Brie Bella for her wardrobe malfunction at Monday’s WWE RAW show from the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas. Apparently the apology she tweeted was something she was ordered to do by WWE management.

PHOTOS: Brie Bella’s WARDROBE MALFUNCTION! [DIRECT LINK TO VIEW >>]

[Credit: F4WOnline.com]

Ultimate Warrior Posts Long Message To Vince McMahon, Teases WWE Return

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The following is a new message written by The Ultimate Warrior in response to Vince McMahon welcoming him back to WWE recently. Warrior wrote:

“@VinceMcMahon Vince, thank you for your personal welcome back to the WWE Universe. It is noted and appreciated. All the Warriors of Parts Unknown take pride in being one of the original galaxies of the Universe you created. Not one of my days has passed without a flashback to my time in the business and my relationship with you. After 17 years of battling one another, perhaps the stars have finally aligned and Destiny is prepared to tell one of Sports Entertainment’s greatest stories: how two of the industry’s most determined, colorful, intense and explosive personalities brought to life a persona that made such an inspiring impression that it still captures the hearts and minds of fans all over the world, even all these years later. I am proud Ultimate Warrior is an iconic, immortal spirit in the Universe you created. I know, Vince McMahon, you are proud, too. The inhabitants of your WWE Universe believe your personal welcome is an invitation of sorts. If so, consider this my RSVP with one condition. Wisdom takes a seat at the table with us when we meet, but we each also leave unburied a slight edge of the hatchet we’ve carried over the years. that other gutless and heartless God-fearing men urge us to lay to rest forever. Face it, neither one of us were ever any good at being bored or boring others. So coming prepared to kill one another makes for a interesting backup plan. Always Believe, Warrior “

Ultimate Warrior To Be Inducted Into WWE HOF & Wrestle At WM XXX?

Brie Bella Tweets Apology For Her “Wardrobe Malfunction” On Monday’s RAW

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WWE Diva Brie Bella took to Twitter following Monday’s edition of WWE RAW from the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas. The reason? The infamous “wardrobe malfunction” has struck again!

Brie Bella tweeted the following on her official Twitter account after she became the latest victim of the wardrobe malfunction bug:

According to online weather reports, the weather topped out at 98 degrees in Austin, Texas on Monday. The city suffered from high humidity during the day as well, which affected the conditions inside the indoor arena at night.

CRYSTAL-CLEAR PHOTOS Of Brie Bella’s WARDROBE MALFUNCTION On Monday’s RAW!

What Happened After Monday’s WWE RAW: Daniel Bryan Works Another Match

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After Monday’s edition of WWE RAW went off the air, WWE Superstar Mark Henry wrestled John Cena in the dark match main event. The finish came when all three members of The Shield came out and attacked both Henry and Cena.

Eventually, Daniel Bryan came out to make the save. Bryan, who worked three matches in approximately an hour straight on the televised portion of the show, was then added to the contest to make it a six-man tag match featuring Bryan, Cena and Henry against The Shield.

The match ultimately ended in a disqualification, with the babyfaces going over.

CRYSTAL-CLEAR PHOTOS Of Brie Bella’s WARDROBE MALFUNCTION On Monday’s RAW!

John Cena vs. Ryback (Tables Match) & Bryan vs. Kane Next Week On RAW, RVD vs. Del Rio On SmackDown

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– WWE announced that Rob Van Dam will face World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio in a non-title match on Friday’s SmackDown.

– Next week’s episode of WWE RAW will feature the following matches:

  • John Cena vs. Ryback in a Tables Match
  • Daniel Bryan vs. Kane

The show will be taped on Wednesday night from Laredo, Texas. SEScoops.com will have Live Results coverage of the show – so stay tuned for those.

(Spoilers) WWE Superstars Taping Results For 7/26

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WWE filmed matches for this week’s WWE Superstars prior to the live WWE RAW broadcast, which emanated from the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas. Below are quick-match results from the taping.

-The Usos defeated 3MB in tag-team action.

-Layla defeated Alicia Fox in a Divas match.

CRYSTAL-CLEAR PHOTOS Of Brie Bella’s WARDROBE MALFUNCTION On Monday’s RAW!

WWE False Advertises Big Show For RAW, Bella Twins On The Today Show, More

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-Despite being advertised to appear, The Big Show did not appear on Monday’s edition of WWE RAW. Big Show was featured in an actual vignette that aired on SmackDown that promoted him returning on RAW. You can check out that video promo, which WWE still has on their YouTube channel listed as “Big Show returns to Raw!”, below:

-As noted on Monday’s edition of WWE RAW, WWE Divas The Bella Twins will be special guests on The Today Show this coming Thursday morning, July 25th at 8:00am E.T. on NBC. Nikki and Brie Bella will appear on the morning talk show to promote the debut of “Total Divas” on the E! cable channel this Sunday night, July 28th at 10:00am E.T.

CRYSTAL-CLEAR PHOTOS Of Brie Bella’s WARDROBE MALFUNCTION On Monday’s RAW!

WWE RAW Results From Austin, Texas (7/22)

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WWE RAW Results (7/22)

Tonight’s episode of WWE RAW takes place from the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas.

The show opens with a recap of Paul Heyman turning on CM Punk at Money in the Bank and last week’s RAW, when Brock Lesnar returned and destroyed Punk. Also, a recap of John Cena picking Daniel Bryan and his SummerSlam opponent.

RAW opens with the light off. Justin Roberts introduces the new RAW GM in the ring, Brad Maddox. There is a set up in the ring with 2 chairs. He puts over his decision to let John Cena pick his SummerSlam opponent and says tonight, we’re going to the see the official contract signing. Maddox introduces WWE Champion John Cena.

Maddox asks Cena why he chose Daniel Bryan. Cena says it’s because of him (for letting him pick) and the WWE Universe (for picking). Maddox questions Cena’s pick of Daniel Bryan, who he says looks like a troll and not a WWE Champion. Cena starts responding him but gets cut off by Daniel Bryan’s music. Bryan comes out and the crowd chants YES! at him during his entrance and when he gets into the ring.

The crowd chants “Daniel Bryan!” as he starts to think. Maddox asks Bryan why he thinks John Cena picked him as his opponent. John Cena says Maddox should be man enough to ask him himself. Cena says Daniel Bryan’s size is not a factor in their match. Cena names Shawn Michaels, Rey Mysterio and Eddie Guerrero that proved ability and passion make a WWE Champion – not just size or strength. A loud “Eddie!” chant breaks out.

Cena admits the WWE Universe loves him – but he chose him because he earned it and he deserved it. Being a WWE Champion is about facing the best possible competition at all times – and sometimes, that comes from an unlikely source. Cena says he picked him – and he expects Daniel Bryan to give him a fight. Maddox announces the match, but Daniel Bryan cuts him off.

Bryan tells him he deserves the WWE title match at SummerSlam. Maddox says he can show everybody how great he is by wrestling in a few matches tonight.

https://twitter.com/wweuniverse/status/359466319915122690

Up next: Alberto Del Rio vs. Sheamus.

Sheamus vs. Alberto Del Rio:

Sheamus is out first and has a NASTY bruise on his left leg. World Heavyweight champion Alberto Del Rio is out next. “Brad Maddox” is trending on Twitter. Del Rio works on Sheamus’ bruised thigh early with a vicious kick. Back and forth action. 1 count for Sheamus. Del Rio kicks Sheamus in the face, gets in some stiff offense and looks for cheers from the crowd. Del Rio in control.

Del Rio winds up on the outside after he tried giving Sheamus a cross armbar while standing on the apron (over the top rope), but Sheamus fought back and decked him in the face, sending him to the floor.

https://twitter.com/lancestorm/status/359469031142596608

Back from the commercial, it’s back and forth, with Sheamus eventually getting the best of Del Rio. Backstabber by Del Rio and he gets a 2 count. Del Rio wins up on the apron and Sheamus gives him 10 punches to the chest. Irish Curse by Sheamus but he only gets a 2 count. Sheamus tries going to the top, but Del Rio hits him with a running enziguri. 2 count for Del Rio. Sheamus gets Del Rio on his back and does his running tumble slam. Sheamus looks like he’s warming up for the Brogue Kick but misses. Del Rio gives Sheamus a mule kick to his injured leg and attempts the cross arm breaker. Sheamus goes for White Noise but his bad leg buckles and Del Rio rolls him up for a 3 count.

Winner: Alberto Del Rio:

Later tonight, The Miz hosts Miz TV with his guests, the cast of Total Divas.

Footage is shown from last week of Brock Lesnar destroying CM Punk. We’ll get an update on Punk later tonight.

Backstage, Renee Young asks Booker T about the recent shakeup with the General Manager situations on RAW and SmackDown. Teddy Long is there as well, and tells Renee Young that he took a ton of abuse while filling in for Booker T. Booker says Teddy knows he just had surgery. Teddy is pissed off that Vickie threw him out of the arena last week. Booker T says he’ll kick him out right now. Long says maybe Mr. McMahon made the right decision and storms off.

Later tonight, Daniel Bryan vs. unknown opponents in multiple matches.

Christian vs. Titus O’Neil:

Titus is absolutely dominating Christian with his power, making easy work of the former World Heavyweight champion. Christian fights back and gets some offense in, eventually hitting the kill switch and getting the win. Big comeback there by Christian, who was getting completely squashed during the first half of the match.

Winner: Christian

A recap is shown from SmackDown, with Ryback destroying Chris Jericho. Backstage, Josh Matthews interviews Ryback. Ryback calls him a twerp and says he’s just like the rest of the WWE Universe. Ryback hates average – and people like Josh Matthews deserve to be intimidated by him. The crowd boos from ringside as Ryback scares Matthews off.

Mark Henry comes out and says he’s proud to be from Texas. He grew up down the street and he’s proud of the effort he put into his match against John Cena. But he’s not proud about what happened last week when he was assaulted by the Shield. Any man that takes a whooping like the one he took is willing to give one out. He’s right here if the Shield wants a piece of him. The Shield’s music hits and they come to the ring through the crowd. The Shield attacks Henry, who is outnumbered. They brawl until The Uso’s music hits. The brothers come to ringside and even the odds for Henry. The babyfaces eliminate the heels from the ring and it looks like we’ve got a 6-man tag match for SummerSlam.

Backstage, Daniel Bryan is shown getting ready for his matches later. John Cena gives him a pep talk, saying that he hopes he makes it to SummerSlam in one piece. Daniel Bryan says tonight is an opportunity to show everybody he deserves the WWE title shot. Tonight, he’s going to fight and he’s going to win. If Cena comes down to help him tonight, he’s going to show the world that he doesn’t think Bryan get get the job done on his own.

Darren Young vs. Dolph Ziggler:

Ziggler gets the clean after about with win a Zig Zag. Solid back and forth match. Afterwards, Big E Langston hits the ring and tries attacking Dolph Ziggler, who avoids him and throws him out of the ring. Langston and AJ Lee stand in the ring as Ziggler taunts them from the ramp.

Winner: Dolph Ziggler

Michael Cole gives us very detailed instructions of how to download the WWE app.

Another recap of Brock Lesnar destroying CM Punk last week.

Up next: The Miz hosts Miz TV with the Total Divas cast.

Back from commercial, The Miz is in the ring with the cast of Total Divas. Miz says Total Divas premieres this Sunday on E and a preview video airs, showing the Bella Twins meeting Eva Marie and JoJo Offerman. Miz invites Jerry Lawler to the ring. Lawler says he knows the Bella Twins, but then introduces himself to Eva Marie. She says she’s there to make a name for herself, doesn’t like the way Jerry Lawler is looking at her and slaps him in the face. Lawler exits the ring and the segment ends.

Backstage, Triple H confronts Brad Maddox. Triple says Maddox doesn’t think Daniel Bryan is big or strong enough or championship material. Triple H says it sounds like the “old man” is putting words in mouth. He thinks Daniel Bryan could be the future of WWE – and it doesn’t matter what Brad Maddox tries throwing at Daniel Bryan right now. Triple H walks away and Stephanie McMahon enters. She tells Maddox that she has a big idea from Vince that she’s going to reveal to him soon.

At ringside, the announcers talk about the Wyatt Family and we get a look back at their past 2 weeks on RAW.

Fandango vs. Cody Rhodes

Damien Sandow is ringside on commentator. Footage is shown from SmackDown where Rhodes attacked Sandow. Back and forth action between Rhodes and Fandango, with Damien Sandow running down Cody on commentary. During the match, Sandow gets on the apron while holding his briefcase. Cody does a disaster kick, kicking the briefcase into Fandango’s face. He covers him and gets the pinfall.

Winner: Cody Rhodes:

Up Next: CM Punk addresses Brock Lesnar attacking him last week on RAW.

CM Punk comes down to the ring. Brock Lesnar is a beast and kicked his ass last week. But no matter how tough Lesnar is and how hurt he was after last week’s attack, he got up. His whole body is banged up – but he’s still standing. Brock Lesnar can beat him down – but Brock Lesnar can’t keep him all. Punk runs down Lesnar’s many accomplishments – and says being UFC Champion may have been the most impressive of them all. Throughout it all – Lesnar’s biggest strength hasn’t been his physical prowess or his fighting skil. His #1 strength will always be – fear. Punk tells WWE.com and WWE Magazine that they’ve got their next big breaking story. He’s not afraid of Brock Lesnar. Now let’s talk about Paul Heyman. Paul Heyman made the wrong decision at Money in the Bank – and he’s going to make Paul Heyman regret that every day for the rest of his life. Punk says he owns that ring and a loud CM PUNK! chant breaks out. CM Punk says that at SummerSlam, he wants “The Best vs. The Beast.”

Heyman appears on the big screen and says he loves the sound of The Best vs. The Beast. Heyman runs down the state of Texas. Heyman asks CM Punk if he refuses to stay down because he’s a coward or because he’s a fool. Punk says he’ll answer that question for him and his client at SummerSlam. Punk doesn’t believe that Heyman is really appearing “Live Via Satellite.” Heyman repeats that it was THEM who were WWE Champion for 434 days, not just CM Punk. Paul Heyman says Punk’s challenge to Brock Lesnar for a match at Summerslam. He tells Punk to stop calling the match “The Best vs. The Beast” because The Beast is The Best. Punk’s music hits and the segment ends.

Rob Van Dam is shown warming up backstage and he’ll be in action next.

Wade Barrett vs. Rob Van Dam:

Wade Barrett starts off aggressively but RVD gets the upper hand. Barrett regains control outside the ring and gets a 2 count back in the ring. Barrett works over RVD in the corner and gloats for the crowd. RVD chant breaks out. During the match, RVD hit Barrett in the mouth and busted him open, drawing blood. RVD gets barrett down on the matt, hits the 5 Star Frog Splash off the top rope for the win.

Winner: Rob Van Dam

Daniel Bryan is shown backstage walking to the ring.

Daniel Bryan vs. Jack Swagger

Swagger is Bryan’s first opponent for the night and comes down to the ring with Zeb Colter & Antonio Cesaro. Zeb Colter has a microphone and runs down Daniel Bryan. The bell rings and Swagger goes right after Bryan. Bryan fights back and gets “Yes!” chants from the crowd. Swagger tries overpowering him but Bryan hits a sunset flip and gets a 2 count. Swagger using size to his advantage. A very loud “OU SUCKS” (Oklahoma University, Swagger’s school) chants breaks out. Daniel Bryan gets the upper hand but gets nailed in the face with an elbow when going for a dive outside of the ring. OU SUCKS! breaks out again Swagger says We The People! but gets caught in a Yes Lock. Swagger taps out and the place goes nuts.

Winner: Daniel Bryan

Back from commercial break, Daniel Bryan vs. Antonio Cesaro is already underway. We see a clip from the WWE app of what happened during the break – Antonio Cesaro threw Daniel Bryan up into the air and delivered a brutal European uppercut. Cesaro throws Daniel Bryan into the corner post and then locks in a tight chin lock from behind. Bryan fights back and actually gets the upper hand. Bryan in total control, hitting several of his signature offensive moves. Bryan goes off the top rope, but Jack Swagger pushes him off and Cesaro nails him with another European uppercut. He get a 2 count and argues with the ref.

More back and forth action and they get a loud “This Is Awesome!” chant from the crowd. Cesaro attempts a superplex but Bryan breaks free and Cesaro gets crotched on the top rope. Bryan pulls him down for a tree of woe and delivers several kicks to his chest while the crowd chants “Yes!” Bryan runs to the opposite side of the ring and runs back to deliver a flying dropkick. Bryan sets up a superplex but it Cesaro counters in mid air and lands on top of him. 2 count for Cesaro. Absolutely brutal exchange where Cesaro delivers 5 European uppercuts to Bryan and then turns him inside out with a snap clothesline. Cesaro attempts the Neutralizer but Bryan fights free and gives him a back body drop. 2 more European uppercuts, but Bryan fights back. Leg whip by Bryan and several elbow strikes to the face. These guys are beating the crap out of each other. Cesaro is on the outside of the ring and Bryan dives through the middle ropes on to both Real Americans. Back in the ring, Cesaro regains control and throws Bryan into the air to deliver another European uppercut but Bryan rolls him into a small package for the win. The crowd goes nuts for Bryan.

Winner: Daniel Bryan

Backstage, Brad Maddox and The Miz are shown backstage watching the action. Maddox says Bryan has done well so far, but let’s see how he does against his next challenger.

Daniel Bryan continues to celebrate in the ring until Ryback’s music hits.

Ryback vs. Daniel Bryan

The bell rings and Daniel Bryan attacks Ryback quickly. It doesn’t take long for Ryback to get control and start screaming in Bryan’s face. Back and forth action as the crowd chants “You Can’t Wrestle!” at Ryback. Bryan locks in a half crab but Ryback eventually makes it to the ropes to break the hold. Ryback hits a running elbow to the face to knock Bryan down. Ryback slams Bryan’s head in to the canvas several times and then delivers a running splash. Ryback charges into Bryan but Bryan gets his knees up to knock him down. Ryback hits several running dropkicks into the corner on Ryback, but gets caught with a clothesline on the 3rd attempt. Big clothesline and Bryan is leveled. Ryback goes outside of the ring and takes a table out from under the ring.

Daniel Bryan dives through the ropes and hits Ryback, who falls into the announcers table. Bryan is really holding his own against Ryback, his third opponent of the night. Ryback throws Daniel Bryan into the ring steps. Bryan unloads on Ryback with kicks and chops him down to the ground. 2 count for Bryan and he is absolutely dismantling Ryback. Bryan goes to the top rope and delivers a missile dropkick. Bryan locks in a Yes Lock but Ryback makes it to the ropes. Ryback is on the outside of the ring and Daniel Bryan tries diving into him but Ryback catches him and slams him to the mat. Ryback takes Daniel Bryan and gives him a powerbomb through the table at ringside to get disqualified.

Winner by DQ: Daniel Bryan

Ryback is going to continue attacking the laid out Daniel Bryan when John Cena runs down for the save and chases him off. John Cena calls out Ryback and says he wants him in a tables match. Ryback accepts but they don’t say when the match will be. Michael Cole and JBL speculate that it will take place next week on RAW.

At ringside, doctors tend to Daniel Bryan. Backstage, Brad Maddox is watching TV when Vince McMahon walks in. Maddox says he’s making the match of John Cena vs. Ryback in a tables match next week on RAW. Vince asks, “What about Daniel Bryan?” He says Bryan’s opponent has to be bigger than he is, somebody vicious. Maybe a friend. Bryan suggests, Daniel Bryan vs Kane. Vince tells him, “You’re damn right” and we’ve got another match set for next week.

Daniel Bryan celebrates in the ring as the crowd chants “Yes!” and we go off the air.

Backstage TNA Talent Meeting Held Before Impact: Budget Cuts Discussed

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TNA President Dixie Carter spoke to the TNA locker room prior to last week’s Impact Wrestling taping and addressed the company’s ongoing budget cuts. Jeff Jarrett, as well as TNA CFO Dean Broadhead and Executive Vice President Andy Barton were in attendance.

According to Prowrestling.net, it was explained that the One Night Only pay-per-view tapings that were held earlier this year cost the company a lot of money. Ironically, the tapings were done as a result of TNA’s cost cutting-measure of eliminating reducing the live pay-per-view schedule to 1 only per quarter.

TNA’s new EVP of Television Production, John Gaburick, is getting positive feed back since taking over for Bruce Prichard.

* PHOTO – FIRST LOOK at BATISTA As “DRAX THE DESTORYER” In Guardians Of The Galaxy

WWE Releases Alberto Del Rio’s Brother – NXT Wrestler Memo Montenegro

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According to a new report, WWE has released NXT wrestler Memo Montenegro, brother of current World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio.

Montenegro’s profile has been removed from the official NXT roster page earlier today.

Montenegro has been signed with WWE since 2012.

More WWE Cuts Coming?, Latest TNA Roster Cuts Revealed …

Chris Benoit “Crossface” Movie Gets A Director, New Maria Photos

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WWEShop.com is now selling a vintage pink “Macho Man” Randy Savage t-shirt.

– Paul Heyman’s HeymanHustle.com site has published an exclusive new photo gallery of former WWE Diva and the “First Lady of Ring of Honor” Maria Kanellis.

– The upcoming movie “Crossface” about the the Benoit family tragedy will be directed by Vicente Amorim. The movie will be an adaption of the book “Ring of Hell: The Story of Chris Benoit and the Fall of the Pro Wrestling Industry.” Amorim told Deadline.com: 

“Wrestling is showbiz taken to the extreme and ‘Crossface’ is Limelight on steroids. Chris Benoit’s story is the perfect vehicle for a fiercely honest film that is as much about him and the world of wrestling as it is about America and show business. I am very happy to be on board to help tell this story.”

WWE RAW Preview: Vince McMahon & Big Show Appearing, SummerSlam Hype

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Tonight’s episode of WWE RAW takes place from the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas.

While no matches have been announced for the show, WWE is advertising that Vince McMahon, Triple H, Big Show and Rob Van Dam will all be in attendance.

WWE Superstar Sheamus also tweeted last week that he’s been medically cleared to return (after injuring his leg at Money in the Bank) and will be at RAW tonight.

WWE.com’s preview of the show focuses on the following items:

  • The build to SummerSlam continues
  • The Big Show’s return and who/what he’ll be going after
  • If Brock Lesnar has “awakened the beast” in CM Punk after last week’s attack
  • Mark Henry sets his sights on The Shield
  • New RAW GM Brad Maddox continues to learn on the job

The advertised dark match main event is John Cena vs. Mark Henry.

First Look: Batista As Drax The Destroyer (Guardians Of The Galaxy)

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guardians-of-the-galaxy-movie-logo-600x404

At last week’s San Diego Comic Con event, Marvel Studios hosted a surprise panel for the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy movie, featuring former WWE Superstar Dave Bautista playing the role of Drax the Destroyer. (Video above)

During the panel, Batista said, “I’m still to the point where I go to set every day and I can’t believe I got this job.” He also revealed that he fought incredibly hard for the role and broke down crying when he landed it.

Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige told the audience that Bautista is gonna “freak people out” when they see him in the movie.

Marvel released new artwork for the movie, including this first look of Dave Buatista as Drax the Destroyer:

Batista Drax

IGN.com released this video of interviewed Batista and actor Michael Rooker talking about Guardians of the Galaxy:

Jim Ross Blog: John Cena vs. Daniel Bryan, CM Punk vs. Brock Lesnar, If WWE Would Work With TNA

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WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has upated his blog, which you can read in its entirety at JRsBarBQ.com Here are some highlights of what he said about:

If He Watches TNA: Yes…I watch TNA periodically as I have many friends who work there and, no, I don’t have any ‘solutions’ to their alleged woes that I care to share. I do hope TNA all the success in the world.

If WWE Would Ever Work With TNA: No…there will NEVER be a WWE/TNA partnership unless WWE owned TNA and that’s highly unlikely to ever occur. Please don’t start that rumor but some brain surgeons will. WWE has zero to gain in said ‘partnership.’

John Cena vs. Daniel Bryan at SummerSlam: Thinking that @JohnCena vs. @WWEDanielBryan at Summer Slam could resemble a Cena vs. @ShawnMichaels or @Real KurtAngle match vs. anything that we’ve seen from the WWE Champion in recent years. Bryan’s pace and skill set will sternly challenge Cena on a night where we could readily see the @WWE Title changing hands in Los Angeles. Bryan’s speed would seem to be problematic for Cena….or anyone.

CM Punk vs. Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam: Thinking that the pending @CMPunk vs. @BrockLesnar match at Summer Slam will be really good. Very Physical. Straight forward. Both men have healthy egos which is an essential part of being a major star in any endeavor especially in sports and entertainment. ‘Controlled’ egos are often hidden within the term ‘self confidence.’ Nonetheless, it will be intriguing to see Punk’s strategy to counter Lesnar’s obvious size and strength advantage plus Brock’s athletic skill set. One can’t win on heart alone or compel PPV buyers to invest simply on the”I won’t quit” sort of attitude. That obviously helps but fans need to know that the underdog (Punk) has a ‘plan’ and a legit chance to ‘overcome.’ All that aside, both Lesnar and Punk will want to steal the show at Summer Slam in a big time way and @HeymanHustle will foster that mindset. There are many, unique elements at play in this main event level bout.

Kassius Ohno’s Main Roster Call Up On Hold Due To Disobeying Management?

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Following the Wyatt Family’s recent WWE television debut, the next top star on the NXT roster scheduled to be called up was Kassius Ohno (formerly known as Chris Hero). However, due to issues with WWE management, those plans have been put on hold indefinitely.

According to a source, the creative team had a storyline to introduce Ohno this summer. He’s long been praised for his in-ring work as well as his promo ability, but he was recently told to improve his physique before his upcoming WWE debut.

According to trainers at NXT, Ohno did not take the request seriously and was not giving a great effort with his weightlifting sessions. His overall attitude remained fine and he always gives a good effort in the ring, but word got back to Triple H about him being defiant regarding the weight training.

Since then, Ohno was pulled from the past two NXT TV tapings and it’s believed that he’s no longer on the “fast track” to WWE TV.

WWE Stars Reflect On 2013 Comic-Con (Video), WWE Classics On Demand, Dolph Ziggler-AJ Lee

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– The official YouTube account of WWE has posted this video of Dolph Ziggler, The Miz, Daniel Bryan, Sheamus and Mick Foley reflecting on the 2013 Comic-Con International in San Diego, California.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okOIQ0bwRSY[/youtube]

– This week’s WWE Classics On Demand updates are as follows: WWE Royal Rumble 2013, WWF at Madison Square Garden (July 23, 1984), Extreme Championship Wrestling (September 25, 1998), Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling (November 17, 1982), WWF Prime Time Wrestling (November 20, 1989).

– The official WWE website has a poll asking visitors whether Dolph Ziggler is better off without AJ Lee. Of over 16,000 votes casts, 76% say “Yes, AJ Lee was holding The Showoff back from his full potential” compared to 24% for “No, Ziggler was at his peak with the Divas Champion by his side.”

WWE Battleground PPV In October, Linda McMaon Still In Politics & More

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– After spending approximately $100 million on two failed US Senate campaigns, Connecticut’s Courant.com reports that Linda McMahon is still a key benefactor to the state Republican party and serves as trusted adviser to its chairman, Jerry Labriola Jr.

“She’s had every reason, after the outcome of her two races, to disappear, but she’s done just the opposite,” Labriola told the Courant. “She’s been active and helpful and I know she’s dedicated to our party making a strong comeback in Connecticut.”

– WWE is advertising Paul Heyman for a rare house show appearance on August 25th at The Santa Ana Star Center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.

– The UK’s Sky TV is currently listing WWE’s October pay-per-view as “Battleground.” Previously, the event had been known as “Over The Limit.” WWE has yet to acknowledge the change. The show takes place on Sunday, October 6th from Buffalo, NY.

* PHOTO – FIRST LOOK at BATISTA As “DRAX THE DESTORYER” In Guardians Of The Galaxy

Jason Hervey Interview: Incorporating Reality Into TNA Television, Relationship With Bischoff

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TNA Executive Producer and the Co-Founder of Bischoff-Hervey Entertainment, Jason Hervey, was the featured guest on this past week’s all-new edition of the award-winning Monday Night Mayhem, hosted by The Big Mosh and “The Chairman of the Board” Todd Vincent.

Jason Hervey Discusses His Inspiration For Implementing A Combination Of “Real Life Meets Behind The Scenes” To The Backstage Segments On iMPACT Wrestling, How Pleased He Has Been With The Results Thus Far, How His Relationship With Eric Bischoff Has Evolved Through The Years, The Growth Of Bischoff-Hervey Entertainment, The Biggest Changes In The Television Industry From Entering The Business To Now, Why Reality Television Has Continued To Grow, How The Process Came About For Teaming Up With Nickelodeon On “See Dad Run,” Scott Baio’s Recent Success, What Attracted BHE TV To “Hardcore Pawn Chicago and much more.

Listen Here: Jason Hervey on Monday Night Mayhem (.MP3)

Here are some highlights of what Hervey said about:

How his relationship with Eric Bischoff has evolved though the years:

“I’ve known him since 1991, and while he was at Turner and I was at Mandalay, we worked on projects together. We were always good friends, and I got to tell you, I learn from him every day. He is an incredible strategist, a great business mind, extremely creative, and I think we’re just getting started.”

His inspiration for implementing a combination of real life meets behind the scenes to the backstage segments on iMAPCT Wrestling and how pleased he has been with the results thus far:

“It is a team effort. That is where I spend most of my day when I’m there, but there is an incredible group of people helping out in the process. When I first got to TNA, there was an opportunity to focus more on what is real, and then we put the characters in those situations to bring out the true reality. I think a lot of the good reality comes from those characters, where we get their real reactions. This is real behind the scenes drama.”

(Interview highlights courtesy of Aarnon Carnevale)

Update On Jake Roberts’ Sobriety, Ricardo Rodriguez’ Return From Suspension & More

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– With WWE officials continuing discussions on building a physical Hall of Fame building, the company is planning for it to be more of a tourist attraction / museum than just a historical site. As with virtually everything WWE does, the facility will be state-of-the-art with plenty of interactive features.

– WWE manager Ricardo Rodriguez will be eligible to return from his 30-day Wellness Policy suspension on August 1st, during WWE’s upcoming International tour of South Africa and China. He’s expected back on television for the August 5th RAW taping from Green Bay, Wisconsin.

– After relapsing several weeks ago, Jake “The Snake” Roberts has given an update on the status of his sobriety. Jake tweeted on Saturday that he was 33 days completely sober – and as of that day, had gone 254 days without using cocaine.

Ryback Deletes All His Tweets Again & Replies To Negativity, Nash’s Elbow Tendinitis

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– Kevin Nash noted on Twitter that he’s been suffering from tendinitis in his elbow. He joked that the pain was so bad he thought he might have torn his quad again.

– Ryback deleted all of his tweets once again. Shortly after deleting them, he wrote these messages:

https://twitter.com/Ryback22/status/359089232096149505

https://twitter.com/Ryback22/status/359132262719164416

https://twitter.com/Ryback22/status/359147965446750208

In response to a fan who was giving Ryback crap for never winning a championship in WWE and being the ruler of nothing, he replied, “My bank acct says different big guy!”

It’s unknown at this point whether Ryback’s tweets were deleted as a result of him responding to negative tweets in a manner that WWE would not approve of. Previously, he deleted all of his tweets after tweeting a message about John Cena’s ex-wife.

Tom Prichard Rips TNA & Says Their Problems Start At The Very Top

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Former WWE Head Trainer Tom Prichard recently blogged on the problems with TNA, his dealings with the promotion and his brother’s recent release. Here is what he wrote at DrTomPrichard.com:

“First of all, I never worked for TNA. That was my brother Bruce. I don’t care what happens to TNA. It was evident long before Bruce ever got there that their problems were (are) deep. Maybe TNA should start at the top (the very top) and look at what the real issues are. Hiring and firing people is all well and good if it produces the desired changes and makes the company more successful. I can’t speak about what’s going on behind the scenes and I never discussed that with Bruce or anyone else at TNA.”

“I can tell you I got a call last July with an offer to help with the developmental system in OVW. As seems to be the case with TNA, lack of follow up and professionalism was indeed the case as I didn’t go to Louisville. Why? Never got a straight answer or courtesy call explaining why a representative of the company called and initiated talks about going to OVW as a trainer, ask what I would want to go and then promise an answer “by Monday.” Monday has yet to come…”

“It’s a shame when a talented roster can’t get a straight answer or get paid on time. Who’s to blame? All I know is if no one can get a straight answer at WWE they go to Vince McMahon. At this time, Vince has the last word and accepts responsibility. Did Bruce screw up or make bad decisions? Don’t know. I wasn’t there. But I do know enough people in TNA who enlightened me on the dealings they’ve had with upper management (long before Bruce ever entered the picture) and the song remains the same…”

Because Wrestling – Episode 107

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This week on Because Wrestling, we talk about Warrior’s return to WWE, the end of Jericho’s time in WWE, more TNA releases, a new Fail of the Week, a WWE mole spoiling PPV results, and This Week in WWE!

Kharma Returning To TV, Inoki Elected To Japanese Government, RVD

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– Former WWE Diva Kharma tweeted that she’s “preparing for a fun return to television.” No word on whether this has anything to do with pro wrestling.

– WWE Hall of Famer Antonio Inoki was elected to the Upper House of the Japanese House of Councilors on Sunday. Inoki won by a landslide and now holds an at-large national seat.

– Rob Van Dam will be appearing at the Look & Listen Clearwater Mall in Roodepoort, South Africa on August 3rd at 10am. The signing is open to the first 400 fans only.

Speaking of Rob Van Dam, he appeared on the latest “On Your Mark” Youtube show and was among the wrestlers giving advice to undefeated backyard wrestler Mark E. Xtreme: