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Dolph Ziggler Interview: If He’s Still A Heel, WWE’s Title Belts & More

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WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler spoke to IGN.com this week to hype Sunday’s SummerSlam pay-per-view. Here are some highlights of what he said about:

If He Is Still A Heel: “Hilariously, the hottest question going in all my interviews as of late is whether or not I’m going to change it. It’s too funny. I think – and because it’s Twitter, which I also love to talk about – that in this day and age is that the reason I put ‘heel’ in there is to let everyone know that I’m a jerk. So they get it. And so if they’re going to start getting behind it like they have been, slowly, for about two years now, let ’em. I’m still going to be a heel. I’m still going to be me. I’m not going to be one of those guys who changes and all of a sudden I’m shaking hands and kissing babies. I’m going to go out there and be the jerk that I am, but be entertaining while I do it. So I’m staying heel. As far as I know.”

What It Would Be Like To Wrestle AJ Lee: “It would be incredible. If this was a different day and age where the Divas were allowed to step into the ring with the Superstars. Man, I would find a way to make that so entertaining one way or another. I bet it would even wind up being people’s favorite match of the show. You know, in that category. But it is the time we live in now, so it’s not happening like that. But we do have a lot of animosity for each other so at least I can try and take it out on Big E. Even though he’s so strong and anything I do to anybody usually has little to no effect. Oh man, but me vs. AJ. That’s…and then Kaitlyn goes to spear her but she moves out of the way and I get speared. That would be so great. Anyway, I think me being able to take out some measure of revenge on Big E. and Kaitlyn to be able to get back at AJ – somehow, the four of us all want a piece of the other one. And at least it puts us on this awesome card on this awesome show. As a part of the “Biggest Part of the Summer,” in LA, in front of a sold out Staples Center. And people coming from all over the world to check it out. I’m excited just to be on this loaded card and be able to have a match.”

If the World Heavyweight Title Is Like What The Intercontinental Title Was Decades Ago: “You know what, I can see that. I can see that argument. The thing is, in the WWE, we have the WWE title, the World title, the United States title, the Intercontinental title, the Divas title, the Tag Team titles. And I feel like, in this business, when Mr. Perfect had that Intercontinental title, that was the belt we saw as the stepping stone to becoming “the man.” The franchise of the WWE. I think in this day and age, I see the United States title as the steeping stone to the World title. And you see the World title is just – just – a notch below saying “This guy, he’s going to have a chance to be WWE Champion. And be the face of the company.” That’s how I see it. That might not be exactly the way it goes, but it is a little bit of a “workhorse” championship title. But I pride myself on being a workhorse. And I pride myself on being able to go out there with anybody, and if we’re given 30 minutes, it’ll be the best 30 minutes you saw. Having that title around my waist, two times now, with zero positive defenses, literally keeps me awake at night. I literally do not sleep because of that. Two times now. Zero defenses.”

* RUMORED FINISH For John Cena vs. Daniel Bryan

Titus O’Neal, Triple H, Stephanie & More React To Darren Young “Coming Out”

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WWE Superstar Darren Young is getting a lot of support from his peers after revealing to TMZ on Wednesday night that he is gay.

Video: John Cena Comments On Darren Young Coming Out

WWE Issues Statement Regarding Darren Young

Here are some tweets from Titus O’Neal, Triple H, Stephanie & more:

Titus O’Neal: “I’m VERY PROUD of @DarrenYoungWWE He’s been like Family 2Me&My Kids And that won’t Change! #ImInFullSupportOfDarren”

BRuBJoRCEAAfzRA

Triple H: “Congratulations, @DarrenYoungWWE for living YOUR life, YOUR way. #proud”

Stephanie: “Congratulations to @DarrenYoungWWE for being the first openly gay WWE Superstar!”

Jim Ross: “‘@StephMcMahon: Congratulations to @DarrenYoungWWE for being the first openly gay WWE Superstar!’ I second that. #NonIssue”

Rosa Mendes: “@DarrenYoungWWE I’m so proud of you!! See you this week!!”

Gregory Helms: “Good job @DarrenYoungWWE Respect!! Somewhere my friend Kanyon is smiling down.”

Matt Morgan: ”ENORMOUS courage out of @DarrenYoungWWE today! U should be very proud of urself Darren! #WhatAGreatExampleForOthers”

Chavo Guerrero: “Huge support for @DarrenYoungWWE !! Great guy & great wrestler! Kudos for @JohnCena  supporting comments too”

Bret Hart: “Im more than proud of Darren Young for having the courage to come out. The trust is that WWE & Pro Wrestling in general have long been ahead of the curve when it comes to accepting sexual orientations.”

Josh Matthews: “Very proud to be apart of @WWE today. Tremendous show of courage from @DarrenYoungWWE”

David Otunga: “I’m proud of @DarrenYoungWWE for his courageous decision. He’s a genuinely good dude and one of the most talented performers in @WWE”

Drew McIntyre: “History in our business will remember @DarrenYoungWWE as a pioneer with the courage to say proud, this is who I am. Hell of a talent & a man”

Renee Young: “Happy for @DarrenYoungWWE! Big moment for him and everyone else. Happy for you, bud!”

Curt Hawkins: “Wow! @DarrenYoungWWE is fearless. This is a historic day for the sport of professional wrestling. Good for you D-Young!”

Tony Dawson: ““@StephMcMahon: Congratulations to @DarrenYoungWWE for being the first openly gay WWE Superstar!”  I support D Young 100%.”

Evan Bourne: “Nothing but love and respect for my dude  @DarrenYoungWWE!”

Zack Ryder: “Proud of you bro @DarrenYoungWWE”

Update On Triple H Turning Heel, Night Of Champions Main Event

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– As of this week, this is a lot of speculation behind the scenes that Triple H will be turning heel at SummerSlam. As we’ve been reporting, the longterm plan is for Triple H and Stephanie to be heels and feud with Vince McMahon, who will bring in a “conquering hero” to take out Triple H at WrestleMania XXX next April.

– With SummerSlam just 3 days away, WWE is already working on the main event for September’s Night of Champions pay-per-view. With current WWE Champion John Cena undergoing elbow surgery soon, the match currently scheduled to headline Night of Champions is Daniel Bryan vs. Randy Orton.

At this point, it looks like Daniel Bryan will in fact win the WWE Championship this weekend, but could drop the title Randy Orton later that night or the next night on RAW.

* Photo of JOHN CENA & NIKKI BELLA Making Out On Their 1-Year Anniversary

(Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

WWE Issues Statement Regarding Darren Young “Coming Out”

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WWE.com has issued a statement addressing Darren Young’s announcement via TMZ.com that is gay:

On TMZ this morning, WWE Superstar Darren Young revealed to the WWE Universe that he is gay. WWE is proud of Darren Young for being open about his sexuality, and we will continue to support him as a WWE Superstar. Today, in fact, Darren will be participating in one of our Be A STAR anti-bullying rallies in Los Angeles to teach children how to create positive environments for everyone regardless of age, race, religion or sexual orientation.

WWE Executive Triple H also tweeted:

As noted earlier, John Cena told TMZ that it’s “wonderful” that Young decided to come out publicly – saying that he’s a true professional and he has the support of WWE.

* JOHN CENA Having SURGERY After SUMMERSLAM & What It Means For Sunday’s WWE Title Match

Video: John Cena Comments On Darren Young Coming Out As Gay

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Last night, WWE Superstar Darren Young revealed to a TMZ.com reporter that he is gay.

TMZ caught up with John Cena in Los Angeles and asked him about Young’s decision to come out publicly. Cena initially said that there were no openly gay wrestlers in WWE – but when he was told that Darren Young had “come out” earlier that night, he said, “Oh, wonderful.”

“Oh wonderful.

“I know Darren personally. Darren’s a great guy. That’s a very bold move for him. And congratulations for him for actually finally doing it.”

Cena says he’s proud of Young, because his own brother is gay and knows how hard it can be to come out.

As for how WWE will handle the situation – Cena says WWE won’t care one way or another.

“For us, it’s entertainment … and if you’re entertaining you shouldn’t be judged by race, creed, color or sexuality … as long as you’re entertaining.”

Top Indy Workers Getting WWE Tryouts, Lilian Starting A New Band, AJ Video

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– Top indy workers Eddie Edwards, Davey Richards and Midwest indy wrestler Prince Mustafa Ali will be attending the WWE tryout camp at the end of this month.

– Lilian Garcia is in Los Angeles holding auditions for her new band this week. She tweeted:

“What a day! Just got done w the 1st round of auditions for my New band! Awesome musicians in LA! #ThingsAreFalling IntoPlace”

– Here is video of AJ Lee talking about SummerSlam at Muscle Beach:

* JOHN CENA Having SURGERY After SUMMERSLAM & What It Means For Sunday

Kevin Nash Rants About TNA On Twitter: Hogan, Sabin, Tito-Rampage & More

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Wrestling legend Kevin Nash went on a Twitter rant about TNA on Thursday morning. Here’s what he said about:

Total Divas & TNA: “Just watched the Totally Diva show for the first time.They played out of order but was a fun watch. When WWE show cases a reality show around Mania how can the TNA show not look weak.I work indy shows every weekend that out draw TNA …sad”

Who Is Responsible For TNA’s Troubles: “Spike has to much control but Dixie gets the heat.”

Chris Sabin As TNA Champion: “GREAT TALENT AND DUDE they will f*ck him in less than 3 months”

Rampage & Tito Ortiz In TNA: “Putting UFC guys in TNA makes less sense then putting TNA guys in UFC”

Why He Worked For TNA: “MONEY MONEY MONEY some people got to have it.”

If He Drew Money While In TNA: “In my account yes.”

What’s Working Against TNA: “WWE has all the money new talent tied up.Good luck TNA they just lost a ton of young talent.That they let go”

What He’d Do If He Had Power In TNA: “Steal Punk or Danielson”

Hulk Hogan & Dixie Carter: “Hulk Hogan will never be s has been.He’s s strong point.Listen to his reaction first time out. Hogan and Dixie are solid storyline wise.She is the owner Hulk is Hulk.If Babe Ruth was alive would we want him to bat cleanup?”

Nash’s longtime buddy Scott Hall tweeted the following in response to the rant:

Hey yo @RealKevinNash I think this pretty much sums up our earlier discussion…

* Big News of TNA Not Renewing The Contracts of HULK HOGAN & STING

TNA “Hardcore Justice” Impact Wrestling Preview For Tonight

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Tonight, TNA Impact Wrestling rolls into Norfolk, Virginia for a special presentation of “Hardcore Justice.” Here’s the card for tonight’s live show:

STEEL CAGE MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
World Heavyweight Champion Chris Sabin vs. Bully Ray of The Aces and Eights
(If Bully Ray loses, he will never get another title shot!)

BOUND FOR GLORY SERIES LADDER MATCH
Jeff Hardy vs. AJ Styles vs. Austin Aries vs. Kazarian
(The winner receives 20 points in the BFG Series)

BOUND FOR GLORY SERIES TABLE MATCH
(The winner receives 20 points in the BFG Series)
Magnus vs. Samoa Joe vs. Bobby Roode vs. Ken Anderson of The Aces and Eights

KNOCKOUTS TORNADO TAG TEAM MATCH
(No Disqualification, No Countouts)
Knockouts Champion Mickie James and Gail Kim vs. Velvet Sky and ODB

* Big News of TNA Not Renewing The Contracts of HULK HOGAN & STING

Darren Young Comes Out The Closet: “I’m Gay”

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WWE superstar Darren Young has “come out” and stated publicly that he’s gay.

Young arrived at LAX in Los Angeles on Wednesday for SummerSlam week and was asked by TMZ photographers if a gay wrestler could ever succeed in WWE. He laughed and said:

“Absolutely. Look at me. I’m a WWE superstar and to be honest with you, I’ll tell you right now, I’m gay. And I’m happy. I’m very happy.”

Young is now the first openly gay wrestler in WWE and the first wrestler come out while still signed to a major national promotion. Now, he might want to update his Twitter bio, which reads:

As comfortable in the VIP section as he is in the ring, Darren Young’s life revolves around three things — money, women and wrestling.

Former WWE Diva Search Contestant Dead At Age 29 From Suicide

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Former “Bachelor” reality television star Gia Allemand died on Wednesday in a New Orleans hospital.

Allemand was found hanging in her home by her boyfriend, Ryan Anderson, who plays for the New Orleans Pelicans NBA team.

Allemand was a participant in one of the WWE Diva Search contests, and also starred alongside pro wrestling personalities Colt Cabana, Disco Inferno and Johny Fairplay in the 2011 film, “Ghost Trek: The Kinsey Report.”

Allemand was 29 years of age at the time of her passing.

RVD Talks First Month Back In WWE In New Audio Blog, Austin Interviews Nash Again

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-WWE Superstar Rob Van Dam has posted a new audio blog online. In the blog, RVD talks about his first month back in WWE and why he feels his in-ring work has improved during his current WWE run. Van Dam also takes a few shots at the TNA Impact Wrestling roster. Check it out online at iPadio.com.

-“Stone Cold” Steve Austin has posted the latest edition of the “Steve Austin Show” online. The latest edition features the return of Kevin Nash to his show. On this episode of the program, the focus is mainly on the end of Nash’s WWE career, as well as a lot of nWo and WCW discussion. Check it out online at PodcastOne.com.

WWE SummerSlam Spoilers

Jim Ross Q&A: Punk/Bryan Iron Man Match?, Nash/JBL In-Ring Future, Heyman/Lesnar

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The following are highlights from the latest online Jim Ross Q&A:

On if he would’ve taken a job with WWE if offered one in 1985 or 1986: “WWE was always my goal and if I handled it professionally, and I would, Bill would have been fine with it.”

On the infamous “Brawl For All” in WWE: “I did think that Doc [Dr. Death Steve Williams] would win it. He might have if he hadn’t torn his hamstring off the bone. The winner of the Brawl for it All was always going to fight Butterbean as best that I recall. It simply wasn’t something that was thought of by the creative team at the last minute. I haven’t read Bob’s book yet but he has the right to tell his story as he remembers it and based on what he knew at the time. Bob was/is a tough guy. Much respect to him.”

On whether or not we’ll ever see a Jim Ross DVD set: “I’d be up for doing one but that’s a WWE call all the way. Not sure it would sell.”

On who has benefitted the most from working with Paul Heyman in WWE: “Better question is who hasn’t benefited from working with Paul Heyman? I’d suggest Brock Lesnar has benefited the most considering Brock’s schedule.”

On if WWE stars are responsible for carrying around their title belts: “Champions are resonsible for the upkeep of their titles but spares are available if one is misplaced. Smart wrestlers never check the titles on planes.”

On if we’ll ever see Kevin Nash and/or JBL wrestle in the WWE in the future: “Not too likely.”

On if we’ll ever see another 60-minute Iron Man Match in WWE, specifically between CM Punk and Daniel Bryan: “If anyone could pull of a 60 minute Iron Man match it wuld be Punk vs. Bryan for sure. Cesaro, too. If it happens it would be great but those are few and far between.”

Check out the complete Q&A online at JRsBarBQ.com.

WWE SummerSlam Spoilers

Paul Heyman Interview: How TNA Misused RVD, Thoughts On Wyatt & Daniel Bryan, More

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The official Xfinity website recently posted an interview with Paul Heyman. While most of the interview is Heyman answering questions completely in-character, below are highlights where Heyman is somewhat candid in his responses.

On the significance of his role in last year’s WrestleMania: “It’s huge. Nothing short of it. And probably even bigger than that adjective. It’s exhilarating for me because you have the most unique, the most gifted athlete in the history of the WWE, or UFC, or college athletics in Brock Lesnar, going against a wrestler who probably has more heart, more determination, and the ability to overcome the odds better than anybody else that I’ve ever come across in my entire career in CM Punk. It’s a fascinating match-up. It won’t be over in 30 seconds. This is going to be an all-night affair. There’s an old expression in the professional wrestling business; “This match will be worth the price of admission.” I humbly suggest that Brock Lesnar vs. CM Punk is worth the price of admission alone.”

On Brock Lesnar telling him to ‘say something stupid’ on RAW recently: “He wanted me to say something stupid! Brock Lesnar is a man who thinks in a far different way than your average beast walking down the street. This is a once-in-a-lifetime athlete. Brock made his point, he told the world, “I, Brock Lesnar, am better than CM Punk.” So, what else is there for us to say?”

On his thoughts about Daniel Bryan: “I’m not done recruiting Daniel Bryan. I think Daniel Bryan is a fascinating performer who has put on arguably the most consistent string of best matches of the past year. The striking thing about Daniel Bryan is the best is yet to come with him. Daniel Bryan still has more to offer. And having seen footage of him dating back to when he was wrestling in VFW halls and very small arenas and high school gymnasiums, he still has so much more that the WWE Universe hasn’t seen. I’m admittedly, and I will confess to this, a huge fan of Daniel Bryan.”

On his thoughts about John Cena: “I think there’s a streak going involving John Cena that both the WWE Universe and the media have failed to pick up on. The glory days of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin lasted two, maybe two-and-a-half years. That was the peak of his run. He came back as General Manager, but day-to-day, going to every city, main eventing every Pay Per View, the focal point of Monday Night Raw…Steve Austin’s peak was two-and-a-half years. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s peak was along the same lines. John Cena has been the focal point of WWE since 2005. For eight and now going on nine years, John Cena has not only main evented all the Pay Per Views, been the major attraction on Raw. John Cena has gone to every city, main events all the live events, and yet he still makes all these media appearances, he’s done more Make-A-Wish Foundation visits than anybody in history…and he’s a tireless workhorse. And he shows up last Monday with his elbow…looking grotesquely…is that a word? His elbow was so messed up and yet he says, “Wrap me up, I’m going out there to perform because the people are counting on me.” There is a work ethic to John Cena that is to behold.”

On his thoughts about Bray Wyatt: “It’s an emotional presentation, and it sets him apart from everyone else which means that Bray Wyatt will stand out. Whether it’s in WWE or UFC or Major League Baseball or the NBA or the NFL or television or movies…any genre that is star-driven has the need for unique personalities. And Bray Wyatt is as unique as they come.”

On how TNA Impact Wrestling handled Rob Van Dam: “I don’t mind getting into detail. I think TNA squandered the opportunity of exploiting the talents of Rob Van Dam. And I don’t think that’s a mistake the WWE is going to repeat.”

Check out the complete interview online at Xfinity.com.

WWE SummerSlam Spoilers

New SummerSlam Video Preview, WWE Hall Of Famer’s Son & Granddaughter Arrested

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-Brooke Orndorff, the granddaughter of WWE Hall Of Famer “Mr. Wonderful” Paul Orndorff was arrested in Fayetteville, North Carolina on Tuesday and charged with robbery and battery. The arrest was the result of an incident that happened on August 3rd. Brooke’s father, Paul Orndorff III, was also arrested and charged with being party to robbery, party to battery and two counts of financial identity fraud. For more information on this story, visit TheCitizen.com.

-WWE has posted a “web exclusive” SummerSlam preview on their official YouTube channel. The video description reads: “The Miz takes a stroll backstage and gets ready to host “The Biggest Party of the Summer” with other WWE Superstars such as Dolph Ziggler, Zack Ryder, and The Prime Time Players.”

You can check out that video below:

http://youtu.be/Co0YbOSGl8w

WWE SummerSlam Spoilers

Brie Bella’s Mystery Partner For SummerSlam Axxess Revealed, Kaitlyn’s 8th Militia

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-WWE officially announced “Total Divas” star Eva Marie as the “mystery partner” for Brie Bella in her match against Maria Menounos and Natalya at the WWE SummerSlam Axxess event. The announcement was first made on the official Twitter page of the Bella Twins.

-Speaking of WWE Divas, Kaitlyn received some Twitter-love as the terms “#K8LYN” and “#8thMilitia” trended worldwide at number one and two on Twitter on Wednesday evening.

WWE SummerSlam Spoilers

WWE CMO Sells One-Quarter Of Her WWE Stock, Ted DiBiase Interview, Snitsky

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-Current WWE Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Michelle Wilson recently sold approximately one-quarter of her shares of WWE stock on Friday, August 9th. Wilson sold 27,600 shares just four days after Stephanie McMahon sold two-thirds of her WWE stock. For more information on this story, visit DailyPolitical.com.

-WWE Hall Of Famer “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase was recently interviewed by the Pougkeepsie Journal during an appearance he made at the Planet Wings establishment in the local area. In the interview, DiBiase talks about some of his upcoming projects, as well as his career in WWE. You can watch a video of the interview online at PoughkeepsieJournal.com.

-Former WWE Superstar Gene Snitsky will be working for the Canadian Wrestling’s Elite promotion as the headliner for their events in Neepawa, MB on Thursday, October 10th, Winnipeg, MB on Friday, October 11th and Selkirk, MB on Saturday, October 12th. For more information, visit CWECanada.ca. (Thanks to Danny Warren for sending that in.)

WWE SummerSlam Spoilers

Sean “X-Pac” Waltman Explains Why He Changed His Mind About Marijuana

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The following are some new tweets from the official Twitter page of former WWE Superstar Sean “X-Pac” Waltman:

Why I changed my mind on weed http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/08/health/gupta-changed-mind-marijuana/index.html?sr=sharebar_twitter

Doctor Sanjay Gupta Publicly Apologizes For Being SO WRONG About Medical Marijuana http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Tqg2y3yYR0&sns=tw … via @youtube

While I advocate for the med marijuana cause, I currently do not use it & haven’t for a while. I get tested & I’m too old to try & cheat. Sorry about the soap box over the pot issue everyone.When Dr Sanjay Gupta can apologize for being wrong, that should make ppl rethink things. Thanks everyone for putting up with my rant.

Follow Waltman on Twitter @TheRealXPac.

WWE SummerSlam Spoilers

Robbie E. Speaks On His Big Break In TNA, Title Runs, The Movie “The Wrestler”

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TNA Impact Wrestling star Robbie E. recently spoke with the What Culture website about a number of wrestling-related topics. Below are highlights from the interview.

On his big break in TNA: “I had a tryout with them through Terry Taylor, and at the time they were looking for…the Jersey Shore Show was big, I’m from there: you’re sitting here…look at me! So they kind of just put two and two together and when they said “OK let’s see if he can get it done in the ring” and fortunately enough for me it clicked, they offered me a contract the day of my try out match.”

On sorta-kinda being in the movie “The Wrestler”: “You know, I was but I wasn’t. Here’s a little secret; I was planned to be in it, my name was listed and everything, but I actually ended up getting an overseas tour. So like a few days before, I wasn’t able to be there for filming, but somehow my name still ended up in the credits, so I kind of got the best of both worlds.”

On his best moments during his X-Division and T.V. Title runs: “Honestly, the highlights were of course the days that I won them: beating Jay Lethal for the X-Division title at Turning Point and then one year later beating Eric Young for the Television Title. But through my TV Title run I had great runs with RVD and D-Von, I got some wins…which I haven’t gotten in a while.”

Check out the complete interview online at WhatCulture.com.

TNA Hardcore Justice Spoilers

Henry/Surprise Guests At NXT Taping, Sheamus Rehab Note, SummerSlam Axxess

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-The official Twitter acount for WWE NXT re-tweeted a Full Sail University tweet which hypes Mark Henry and “surprise guests” for the August 22nd edition of the NXT television tapings from Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida. The tweet reads:

BREAKING:@WWENXT will be returning to Full Sail on Thursday August 22 with @WWE Superstar @TheMarkHenry along with surprise guests!

-WWE’s official doctor, Dr. Michael Sampson, tweeted the following on his official Twitter page following the successful surgery performed on WWE Superstar Sheamus on Tuesday:

“@WWESheamus @WWE UPDATE: the surgery went well and he is recovering in his room. PT to begin tomorrow.”

-The official WWE website, WWE.com, has confirmed the Maria Menounos & Natalya vs. Brie Bella and mystery partner match for the upcoming WWE Summerslam AXXESS. The news was first reported on the official Twitter account of current RAW General Manager Brad Maddox.

WWE SummerSlam Spoilers

WWE Press Release: Unprecedented Social Media Activity Set For SummerSlam

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WWE issued the following on Wednesday:

UNPRECEDENTED SOCIAL MEDIA ACTIVITY SET FOR SUMMERSLAM®

STAMFORD, Conn., August 14, 2013 – WWE today announced its digital and social media initiatives during SummerSlam Week, providing fans with 24/7 event coverage and exclusive content like never before. SummerSlam will be broadcast live on pay-per-view this Sunday, August 18 at 8 p.m. ET from Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA.

SummerSlam’s digital initiatives include:

WWE.COM SOCIAL HUB

WWE will launch an all new Social Hub on WWE.com, which includes unique sections for Photos, Fan Activity, Featured Chats and Superstar Buzz. The Photo Universe will host up-to-the-minute photos of SummerSlam Week showcasing fan and Superstars photos; the Fan Activity section will allow users to exclusively select their social activity views; the Featured Chats section will list existing live chats and allow fans to post information from their social networks, and the Superstar Buzz section will keep fans up-to-date with news on their favorite Superstars or Divas.

PAY-PER-VIEW NOW AVAILABLE GLOBALLY ON MOBILE, XBOX, SONY PLAYSTATION 3 AND SAMSUNG TV’s

WWE is streaming SummerSlam across all Apple, Android and Windows 8 devices and Kindle Fire tablets. The pay-per-view will also be available on Xbox consoles and Samsung Smart TVs, inside “Xbox Live” and the Samsung “Smart Hub,” and, for the first time on Sony PS3 as part of the Sony Entertainment Network.

SUMMERSLAM KICKOFF SHOW

WWE will host a live 60-minute SummerSlam Kickoff show on Sunday, August 18 starting at 7 p.m. ET. In addition to airing prior to the pay-per-view broadcast, the show will be simulcast free on YouTube, WWE.com, WWE app, Facebook and Yahoo! The broadcast will feature an in-arena panel and a backstage reporter as well as Kickoff Interactive, a live WWE Twitter ticker where fans can contact hosts via social media.

CELEBRITY SOCIAL MEDIA AMBASSADORS

This year, a wide-range of digitally savvy celebrities and athletes are serving as official

SummerSlam Week social media ambassadors, tweeting from SummerSlam Axxess, Superstars for Hope party, Be a STAR anti-bullying rallies and at SummerSlam. Celebrities include Pink, Piers Morgan, Kelly Osbourne, Zendaya Coleman, Anthony Anderson, Omar Epps, Corbin Bleu, Jenny McCarthy, Jon Secada, Katie Couric, Maria Menounos, David Hasselhoff and Bret Michaels.

SUMMERSLAM THROUGH THE EYES OF A SUPERSTAR WITH GOOGLE GLASS

WWE will utilize Google Glass at SummerSlam to give fans a unique look at what it’s like to be a WWE Superstar. The exclusive interactive tool will be used by WWE Superstar The Miz, as he attends Axxess sessions and SummerSlam Week events. The Miz will also snap photos via the headgear and publish them on WWE’s new Social Hub.

SOCIAL MEDIA “HOSPITALITY” COMMAND CENTER OPEN 24/7

WWE will host and monitor an online “Hospitality Center” throughout SummerSlam Week, offering real-time support and answering all event-related fan questions that are sent via Twitter to the handle @SummerSlam. WWE will also provide information including arena maps, event schedules, weather alerts and up-to-date ticket information.

‘PIN IT TO WIN IT’ WITH WWE ON PINTEREST

WWE will conduct its first-ever contest on Pinterest with a “Pin it to Win it” game. Fans that follow WWE on Pinterest can re-pin photos from summer-themed pinboards to receive various prizes.

HIDE-AND-TWEET CONTESTS TO GIVE AWAY LAST-MINUTE TICKETS

WWE will host two interactive “Hide and Tweet” contests in the Los Angeles area, giving fans the opportunity to win pairs of tickets to the sold out SummerSlam pay-per-view event. Fans can follow @SummerSlam and @WWE to find clues revealing the whereabouts of the tickets. The first contest will take place on Thursday, August 15, and the second will take place on Friday, August 16.

OFFICIAL SUMMERSLAM-WEEK HASHTAGS/HANDLES

#SummerSlam – Official all-purpose SummerSlam Week hashtag

@SummerSlam – Official Twitter handle

#AXXESS – Official SummerSlam Axxess hashtag

#STARS4HOPE –Official Superstars for Hope party hashtag

WWE SummerSlam Spoilers

Details On Second Round Of Funding For New Iron Sheik Documentary

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SESCOOPS.COM reader Iron Sheik sent along the following:

HELLO TO ALL THE INTELLIGENT FANS!

We are back with a second round of funding to ensure that the story of the man, the myth, THE LEGEND the IRON SHEIK can be brought to the people.

We missed the mark of our first fundraising efforts, but we believe due to the overwhelming momentum we gained in the last week of our campaign that we can raise the funds needed to complete this film.

WHY WE NEED YOUR HELP!

We need your help to raise the funds to finish this film. We raised a little over $40,000 in our last campaign, but that will not cover the costs of post production, music rights, stock footage rights, or legal. Right now this project is in the balance, we have restructured our financing plan, tightened the belt, and have come up with a new budget that we feel can bring this project to you, the fans, the most cost effectively.

THE PERKS:

We have also streamlined the perks. After much interaction with our wonderful funders we’ve decided to make our perks very simple and clear.

TO THE AMAZING FUNDERS OF OUR FIRST CAMPAIGN:

We want to insure that EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU will get your perks in short order. We can’t thank all of you enough. With your help we raised desperately needed funds that are going towards the completion of this film. With a little bit more we can really make this a great project, worthy of the man like the Iron Sheik.

Please forward, Tweet and share this link to all of your networks- http://igg.me/at/IronSheikdoc

Looking forward to making this a reality.

Sincerely,
#Team Sheikie

WWE Spoilers

Backstage News On The Reason WWE Selected The Miz As Host Of SummerSlam

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According to reports, the reason WWE selected The Miz as the official host for this year’s SummerSlam is because he is seen as the top social media representative by the company. WWE is looking to make a big social media push for this year’s summer classic, thus, Miz was tapped as the host of the show.

Miz will be using Google Glass during the SummerSlam pay-per-view.. Google Glass is a computer linked up to a pair of glasses that transmits photos and videos through social media platforms.

WWE V.P. Perkins Miller spoke to the folks at the Mashable.com website, saying, “We can use social media as the glue that connects all of these things for our fans who can’t be in Los Angeles as well as the fans who are there. It creates a unified experience we weren’t able to have before.”

In addition to those duties, Miz will also be representing WWE for the Playstation launch of a live-event streaming App. SummerSlam can be ordered via the Playstation Network, providing another outlet for fans to watch the pay-per-view.

WWE SUMMERSLAM SPOILERS

[Credit: PWTorch.com]

Details On Today’s WWE Photo Challenge In Santa Monica, California

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WWE issued the following on Wednesday:

WWE’s first-ever Fan Photo Challenge is TODAY, Aug. 14, in Santa Monica!

Get ready WWE Universe in the Los Angeles area! Our first-ever Fan Photo Challenge is being held TODAY, August 14, in Santa Monica!

While the goal of the Photo Challenge is still top secret, we can tell you that you can receive an exclusive Superstar-autographed prize for completing the Challenge.

Bring your camera-enabled smartphones and a friend (you’ll need to have a two-person team) and meet us at 1 PM PT at the Santa Monica Pier, in front of PierBurger.

There, you can pick up your Photo Challenge item and instructions, plus the goals you must complete within the three-hour time limit.

Then, return to the location between 4-5 PM PT to show our WWE.com Social Team your completed goals to be awarded your prize.

Participation is limited to the first 50 teams of WWE Universe members that arrive, and you must be 18 years of age or over. We hope to see you there.

And remember … Even at the beach, you can #FollowTheBuzzards …

Tweet about the WWE SummerSlam Fan Photo Challenge on Twitter or post on Facebook with the tag #PhotoChallenge.

24WRESTLING.COM: WWE NEWS & SPOILERS!

Rey Mysterio’s Possible Role At SummerSlam, Natalya/Trinity On Being Bullied

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-The official E! website posted a new WWE Total Divas clip featuring both Natalya and Trinity talking about being bullied in the past. You can watch that video online at EOnline.com.

-The WWE SummerSlam Kickoff Show this Sunday will be available in Spanish, complete with interviews, as well as a Spanish-language speaking expert panel.

As noted, the English-language speaking panel will feature Shawn Michaels, Booker T and Natalya. The Spanish panel may feature Rey Mysterio, although that is strictly rumored at this point.

WWE SUMMERSLAM SPOILERS

John Morrison Returning To The Ring In Puerto Rico, Lex Luger Book Tour Notes

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-Wrestling legend LexLuger is scheduled for a “Google Hangout” session to promote his new book, “Wrestling With The Devil” at 8pm ET. on Wednesday, August 14th. Additionally, Luger will appear on FOX & Friends on August 20th.

-Former WWE Superstar John Morrison will be working the World Wrestling League (WWL) event on September 6th at the Plaza de Toros in Monterrey Nuevo Leon. Morrison will work again on September 8th for the promotion at the Arena Coliseum of Monterrey. Morrison’s final scheduled appearance for the promotion will be in Bayamon, Puerto Rico on October 26th.

WWE SPOILERS