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Watch The Latest Episode Of “The JBL & Cole Show”, Update On Kofi Kingston, WWE Money Horoscopes

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– In this week’s edition of The JBL & Cole Show, the duo visit a trifecta of Sioux Cities and John JBL gears up for the duel with some heavy artillery.

– Kofi Kingston, who has sidelined since since May 30 due to elbow surgery, is being advertised to participate in this month’s tour of Australia in matches against Dean Ambrose—July 26-July 30. The original prognosis for his recovery was up to eight weeks.

– Promoting Money in the Bank, the official WWE website has published an article entitled “WWE Money Horoscopes.” The synopsis reads, “Are you destined to live the life of a millionaire? Will you trade corn flakes for caviar? With the upcoming Money in the Bank pay-per-view fast approaching, WWE.com forecasts your financial future and reveals your lucky numbers with the following WWE Money Horoscopes. So, what are you waiting for? Time is money!”

Wade Barrett & Zack Ryder Face Off On “Superstars”, Former WWE Talent Spill Dirt On Bill DeMott

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– This week on WWE Superstars, Wade Barrett and Zack Ryder square off. Highlights from the match are available here.

Plus, in a battle of Total Divas, Natalya goes up against Naomi.

– Former WWE NXT talents Chase Donovan and Chad Baxter joined former WWE developmental wrestler Kevin Matthews and J-Silva on their Two And A Half Wrestlers podcast. This is a must listen as Chase and Chad dropped some major bombshells on Bill Demott which includes a second-hand story of DeMott pulling out a gun in front of some trainees, firsthand accounts of him hitting talents on the back with a yardstick, using homophobic slurs daily, telling talents to go kill themselves, bullying and over training talents, getting Cena’s trainer fired, etc. This is a must listen!

Kevin Matthews runs down his history with Demott to start off the show and the interview with Donovan and Baxter starts at the 20 minute mark twoandahalfwrestlers.com.

– Jerry Sags of the Nasty Boys turned 49-years-old on Friday.

Mattel WWE Superstar SDCC Panel & Signings Announced For Comic-Con In San Diego

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WWE will be represented at the 2013 Comic Con taking place in San Diego on Thursday, July 18, Friday, July 19, and Saturday, July 20 as Mattel has announced the following dates and times for their WWE SDCC panels as well as a list of WWE Superstar signings at their booth (thanks to WrestlingFigs.com and Ringside Collectibles).

Thursday July 18, 1pm – 2pm Room 25ABC

Mattel and WWE®: Bring on the Action!

Here’s your chance to attend Miz TV with special guest Dolph Ziggler! The Miz will host as Mattel toy designer Bill Miekina and marketing manager Mitchell Cameron discuss the latest in WWE® action figure news and give sneak peeks at upcoming product. You never know what surprises are in store! See you there!

Mattel Booth Events

All events take place at Mattel Booth #3029 unless noted.

– Thursday 7/18 3pm – 4pm WWE® Autograph Session. Come get your brawl on with WWE® Superstars The Miz and Dolph Ziggler. Stop by at 9:30am to get tickets, first come, first served.

– Friday 7/19 11am – 12pm WWE® Autograph Session. Bring on the action! Rey Mysterio, Mick Foley and Daniel Bryan will be on hand for autographs. Stop by at 9:30am to get tickets, first come, first served.

– Saturday 7/20 11am – 12pm WWE® Autograph Session. Come battle with the best! Sheamus and Ryback will be on hand for autographs. Stop by at 9:30am to get tickets, first come, first served.

Social Media Columnist Weighs In On WWE Distancing Themselves From Chris Benoit

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B.J. Mendelson of SocialTimes has a story on why WWE distancing themselves from Chris Benoit since his career and life ended in a murder–suicide in June 2007 is damaging to the sports-entertainment organization in his eyes.

Benoit is not acknowledged by WWE on television, as references to the deceased Canadian grappler are solely limited to historical perspectives and matches on new video releases involving multiple wrestlers. For instance, when commentators mention the fact that only two men have won the annual Royal Rumble match starting from the number one spot, with Shawn Michaels being the first to do so in 1995, followed by Benoit in 2004, Benoit is not acknowledged.

Mendelson feels the exclusion of Benoit from many of the company’s properties creates a “black hole” and also sets a problematic precedent. He writes, “By erasing Benoit, WWE is erasing a good chunk of history within their fictional universe. This creates a black hole where his and other wrestlers storylines once existed. And since the true wealth of the WWE rests in its possession of the world’s largest video library of professional wrestling, creating a near limitless resource for DVDs, merchandise, retrospectives, and repurposed programming, you can see where creating a black hole could represent a problem for the company and its shareholders. Especially if this decision to delete a wrestler established a precedent that would be followed and expanded to include performers who did things the company, its shareholders, or the public frowned upon. Because they’re not only deleting the offending party, you’re also deleting the other wrestler’s match as well, which limits the exposure that wrestler has, hampers his or her ability to sell merchandise (which is how WWE determines which wrestler to put their efforts behind), and damages one of the key assets of the company.”

To read the article, click here.

Triple H On Why Vince McMahon Isn’t In The WWE Hall of Fame, Natalya Talks Wedding & “Total Divas”

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– Despite being the most important figure in the history of WWE, Chairman and CEO Vince McMahon has yet to be enshrined in the WWE Hall of Fame. Triple H addressed the topic in a Twitter post today.

A user asked, “Of all the people who are in the HOF how come @VinceMcMahon isn’t in there??” He responded, “Cause he won’t let us put him in.”

Meanwhile, both WWE executive tweeted messages in honor of Independence Day. Triple H said, “Happy Independence Day!!!! Freedom isn’t free… Thank you to all who paid that price..” McMahon wrote, “Work hard, play hard. Let’s have a party. Happy 4th of July!

– In an interview with EOnline.com, Natalya discussed her recent wedding to fellow WWE Superstar Tyson Kidd, her bachelorette party in Las Vegas, and what viewers can expect to see on the upcoming reality show, Total Divas.

The WWE Diva reveals that her beloved cat Gismo, who she says, “is like my child,” accompanied her and her dad as she walked down the aisle. “My mom had made [Gismo] a tuxedo to match the groom tuxedo. It was so cute!”

She also revealed her favorite moment during the wedding, stating, “It was when I walked down the spiral staircase that led to the ceremony where all my guests were waiting, and the string quartet was playing. I had my cat in one arm and had my dad on my other arm. I saw TJ’s face and I saw all of my guests and I realized I was right where I was supposed to be in my life.”

Total Divas premieres Sunday, July 28 at 10/9c on E!. In regards to what people can expect to see on the show, she said, “I think Total Divas will give people a crazy backstage look at our lives behind the scenes. There’s so much work that goes into what we do. There’s so much more than us just doing headlocks and drop kicks.”

To read the full interview, click here.

“BBQ with Big E Langston” On WWE Inbox, Former WCW Star Profiled By WWE, Adrian Adonis Anniversary

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– This week on WWE Inbox, Big E Langston and other WWE stars reveal which of their peers they would not invite to their summer BBQ party, as well as their favorite beach.

– Disco Inferno is this week’s addition to the Alumni section on WWE.com. WWE says of the memorable WCW talent, “Regarded as one of WCW’s most unique personas, Disco Inferno remains an icon of the fun that was had amidst the intense television ratings battles of the Monday Night War.”

To view his profile, click here.

– Today marks as the 25th anniversary of the death of Adrian Adonis. He and four fellow wrestlers died in car accident in Lewisporte, Newfoundland, when the driver allegedly swerved to avoid hitting a moose and, blinded by the setting sun, inadvertently drove into a lake.

The Breakdown – Episode 14: The Lex Express Has a Flat

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This week on The Breakdown, Steve takes you back in time 20 years to the Independence Day push of Lex Luger.

Because Wrestling – Episode 104

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This week on Because Wrestling, we talk about the passing of Matt Osborne, CM Punk’s family drama

MAILBAG: What Can WWE Do To Get The Fans To Stop Booing John Cena?

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SEScoops Mailbag for May 24th

Got a Question? Submit it with your name to: [email protected]

Q: If Chris Benoit and Eddie Guerrero were still alive, where do you see them in today’s WWE or TNA? How do you think their presence would affect [either promotion] as a whole? – Marcel

A: I don’t think Eddie’s body could have held up as a wrestler, even with a part-time schedule. I see both guys in backstage roles, or perhaps taking on an active role down in NXT. Their presence in WWE (no way would they have ended up in TNA) would have been enormously beneficial for the newer talent. Who better to learn from than two guys who wrestled all over the world, became World champions and had the respect of their peers?

Q: I don’t think this Trevor Murdoch gets enough praise in the wrestling industry. He was a man with [lots of] potential. What happened? – Omar

A: Not sure what led to his departure other than WWE just lost interest in him. I liked him in that he looked totally different than just about everyone else on the roster. He didn’t fit the typical WWE mold. I liked that about him. He wasn’t a bad singer, either.

Q: As we know, John Cena is facing Mark Henry for the WWE title at Money in the Bank. WWE has not had a fully black wrestler win the WWE championship, unless you count The Rock who is half black and half Samoan. Why hasn’t a black wrestler [held the WWE Title]? R-Truth came close at Capitol Punishment, but that match was a joke. – Reggie

A: I’d imagine if they find a black superstar they think can make them lots of money, then he will be champion. R-Truth was not that guy. Perhaps Ahmed Johnson could have eventually been that guy had he not been so injury-prone and reckless in the ring. Had he not quit the company, I’m convinced that Bobby Lashley would have been WWE champion, likely multiple times over.

Q: If there are all faces in the WWE Title MITB match and all heels in the World Heavyweight MITB match, do you think the ultimate outcome will be a unification match between the two champions since one will be face & the other heel? Or am I just overthinking it and hoping this will happen? – Kirk, Ft. Worth Texas

A: Whoever wins those briefcases isn’t guaranteed to win the title. You’re reading WAY too much into things. There is no plan to unify the titles at this time.

Q: Now that Christian is back, his theme song is my favorite once again. What is your favorite current theme song? – Nisim Levi

A: CM Punk, Cult of Personality.

Q: I’m curious as to what you think WWE can do with the John Cena character so that fans will stop booing him every week. They can’t turn him heel since there are no replacements good enough to take the spot as top babyface. So what can they do? – Ben Burnside, Fresno, CA

A: Take him off television. That’s the only way you’ll ever get those people to stop booing him. It’s been eight years since he won his first WWE Title. If they haven’t stopped now, they won’t ever stop. It’s become their shtick, like the “What?” chant. They do it because it’s a “thing” for them to do. If they play their cards right, Daniel Bryan could be that next top babyface, but he’s not there yet.

Q: Why is TNA making ODB, a wrestler, be a freaking referee? Is TNA out of refs? Are they out of money to go after former WWE referees like Earl Hebner. I think a dirty woman who squeezes her boobs is the wrong person to officiate a Knockouts wrestling match. – Fablanco4

A: Nonsense. I think a dirty woman who squeezes her boobs is precisely the right person to officiate Knockouts matches. Hell of a lot better to look at than Earl Hebner!

Sound Off 281: Taz Possibly Returning to WWE, Briscoes/ROH Situation and Who Has The Better Roster of Talent, WWE or TNA?

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Download Solomonster Sounds Off Episode 281 Here

Est. Runtime: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Solomonster shares his thoughts on the death of Matt Osborne and why the original Doink the Clown character was underrated, Ring of Honor’s iPPV fiasco, The Briscoes possible departure, distressing news in the ratings when it comes to Daniel Bryan, shutting down the Rock haters on his choice as WWE’s new video game cover boy, Taz possibly leaving TNA for WWE and what they should do with him, the great Suicide swerve on Impact, can Drew McIntyre ever be a main event player, does TNA have a better roster of talent than WWE, an idea for what to do with Cody Rhodes and a brand new This Week in Wrestling History segment featuring Foley’s plunge, Bret Hart’s stroke, John Cena’s debut, the Benoit tragedy and CM Punk’s legendary pipebomb!

Follow The Solomonster on Twitter and on Facebook and subscribe to the Sound Off in iTunes!

Are you an Android user? Get the free Sound Off app on your device by visiting the Google Play Store today!

Want your question on the air? Send feedback to [email protected].

Creative Commons License
Solomonster Sounds Off by The Solomonster is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Larry “The Axe” Hennig Weighs In On Curtis Axel, WWE Posts Rare Clip Of Sunny, Roddy Piper In Indiana

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– Speaking to Saint Cloud Minnesota News, Larry “The Axe” Hennig offered his thoughts on his grandson being remolded as Curtis Axel, which pays homage to the legendary AWA wrestler as well as “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig (son of Larry Hennig and father of Curtis Axel).

“He’s no overnight sensation,” said Hennig. “He’s been working hard the past five years to get where he’s at. And he deserves it.”

Hennig believes WWE would have cut ties with his grandson if he didn’t possess the talent necessary to become a player for the sports-entertainment organization.

“He’s representing a billion dollar company. You have to be good or you’re going to be gone. They can’t afford any misfires there,” said Hennig.

As for Larry himself, he and his wife run a real-estate business in St. Cloud, Minnesota, “Larry Hennig Auction and Realty.” To read the article, click here.

– WWE Classics On Demand’s Hall of Fame retrospective for July will chronicle the career of “The Original Diva,” Sunny. The official YouTube account of WWE has posted this clip of Sunny from early in her professional wrestling career supporting her client ‘Primetime’ Brian Lee.

– According to WrestlingFigs.com, WWE Hall of Famer “Rowdy” Roddy Piper will appear at the Days of the Dead Convention taking place next Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Wyndham Indianapolis West, 2544 Executive Dr. Indianapolis, Indiana.

New Information Released On Matt “Doink the Clown” Osborne’s Death On Friday

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NBC News in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas is reporting that Matt Osborne, who portrayed Doink the Clown for WWE in 1992 and 1993, died at an area hospital on Friday—not his girlfriend’s residence as widely reported.

Osborne, 55, was transported to the hospital after his girlfriend found him unresponsive inside their apartment in Plano, Texas.

Police are investigating Osborne’s death and believe it to be “accidental.”

The day before his death, Osborne expressed excitement over the summer season via Facebook. He wrote, “I HAVE SOO MUCH GOING ON THIS SUMMER dON’T KNOW IF i’M COMING OR GOING! bUT……THATS THE WAY HU HUH i LIKE IT HU HUH HU HUH! mISS MY BROTHERS!!!!”

CM Punk Thinks A TNA Wrestler Is “Great”, Natalya Pays Tribute To Shawn Michaels, Raw Slam of the Week

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– CM Punk conducted a Q&A session on Twitter on Saturday night where he endorsed a TNA wrestler.

An Austin Aries fan asked, “Thoughts on “A Double”, Austin Aries? Or you’re not allowed to talk about the other company?” Punk responded, “I think he’s great!”

Punk also fielded a question on the passing of Matt Osborne, who portrayed Doink the Clown. He wrote, “sucks of course.”

– Throughout 2013 for WWE Magazine, the WWE Divas are paying tribute to the wrestlers of yesteryear by channeling their trademark wardrobe in photo shoots. In the latest installment, Natalya honors former Hart family nemesis Shawn Michaels by donning an outfit akin to the initial “Heartbreak Kid” look. To view the photos, click here.

– The return of Christian on Raw is highlighted in the latest WWE Raw Slam of the Week.

WWE Announces Marriage Of Tyson Kidd and Natalya, Fan Has Lunch With Triple H, Ryback Talks Jericho

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– The official WWE website announced Saturday that Natalya and Tyson Kidd have tied the knot.

Their statement reads, “The former Divas Champion and former Tag Team Champion, who have dated for more than a decade, were married this week. Natalya revealed that her Las Vegas bachelorette party as well as her upcoming nuptials to fellow Hart Dungeon graduate, Kidd, will be televised on the E! reality series, “Total Divas,” which premieres July 28 at 10/9 CT!”

– In the latest edition of “Outside the Ring,” see how one lucky got to have lunch with Triple H.

– In this video, Ryback addresses his ongoing issues with his opponent at Money in the Bank, Chris Jericho.

List Of Pro Wrestlers Net Worths: The Rock, Steve Austin, John Cena, Triple H, Undertaker & More

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CelebrityNetworth.com has published an article listing the richest professional wrestlers in the world, with figures acquired from all publicly available information including salaries, real estate holdings, divorces, record sales, royalties and endorsements.

The estimated net worths are derived from a formula that does not account for taxes, professional fees or lifestyle expenses.

Here’s the list:

1. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s net worth – $70 million

2. Steve Austin’s net worth – $45 million

3. John Cena’s net worth – $35 million

4. Big Show’s net worth – $30 million

5. Triple H’s net worth: $25 million

6. Kurt Angle’s net worth – $20 million

7. Chris Jericho’s net worth – $18 million

8. Shawn Michaels’ net worth – $17 million

9. The Undertaker’s net worth – $16 million

10. Mick Foley’s net worth – $15 million

11. Bret Hart’s net worth – $14 million

12. Edge’s net worth – $14 million

13. Brock Lesnar’s net worth – $12.5 million

14. Goldberg’s net worth – $12 million

15. Batista’s net worth – $10 million

16. John “Bradshaw” Layfield’s net worth – $9 million

17. Rey Mysterio’s net worth – $8.5 million

18. Kevin Nash’s net worth – $8 million

19. CM Punk’s net worth – $7.5 million

20. Jerry Lawler’s net worth – $7 million

21. Randy Orton’s net worth – $6 million

22. Alberto Del Rio’s net worth – $6 million

23. Hulk Hogan’s net worth – $5 million

According to the article, Hogan lost an estimated $25 million in his divorce from ex-wife Linda. She was awarded 70% of the couple’s liquid assets, a 40% stake in all of Hogan companies, six luxury cars and millions more in property.

24. Ric Flair’s net worth – $5 million

25. The Miz’ net worth – $5 million

26. “Rowdy” Roddy Piper’s net worth – $4 million

27. Chyna’s net worth: $1.5 million

WWE Chairman Vince McMahon’s net worth is listed as $500 million, while the late “Macho Man” Randy Savage’s estate is valued at approximately $8 million.

*Spoilers* Impact Wrestling Tapings Results For July 4 and July 11

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Impact Wrestling broadcast airing on July 4

* They had an opening segment with Hulk Hogan to set up the main event. Noteworthy coming out of this is that Suicide is no more. TJ Perkins’ persona is now known as “Manic.” The main event is X-Division champ Austin Aries vs. Manic vs. Chris Sabin. All three made appearances to set this up.

* AJ Styles defeated Kazarian with his submission. Short but great. Bad Influence were dressed like Siegfried & Roy.

* TNA Knockouts champ Mickie James promo with a ladder to set up Gail Kim vs. Taryn Terrell ladder match “next week.” Winner of that will be the new number one contender.

* Big O has been eliminated from Gutcheck. Ryan Howe will face the Judges later tonight.

* Hernandez defeated Jay Bradley after Chavo Guerrero’s distraction. Not much to this.

* Backstage, Aces & Eights vow to take care of Austin Aries tonight.

* TNA Tag Team champs Gunner & James Storm defeated Robbie E & Jesse Godderz. The finish was screwy so they did it a second time.

* Sting promises to prevent any Aces & Eights interference in the main event.

* In a Bound for Glory Series bout, Jeff Hardy defeated Joseph Park by DQ Park was busted open in the mouth and when he saw his blood, he snapped and nailed the referee with a Black Hole Slam. Mostly good but a few mis-steps by Hardy.

* Ryan Howe was turned down by the TNA Judges. This got the biggest pop of the night. Howe was booed unmercifully by the crowd, which Judge danny Davis acknowledged. David voted yet. Bruce Prichard and Al Snow turned him down. The place became unglued for that. Seriously.

* Chris Sabin defeated Austin Aries & Manic to capture the TNA X-Division championship in 14:37 with Cradleshock off the second rope on Aries for the win. Aces & Eights took out Manic after Doc powerbombed him on the floor. The Main Event Mafia hit the scene to ward off A&8. There were “TNA” and “This is awesome” chants. The show ended with Sabin vowing to defeat Bully Ray for the title.

Impact Wrestling broadcast airing on July 11

* There will be three Joker’s Wild Tag Matches as part of Bound for Glory Series.

* AJ Styles & Samoa Joe defeated Jeff Hardy & Joseph Park in 4:48 when Joe forced Park to tap out to the Kokina Clutch. Good for the short time they had.

* Magnus & Mr. Anderson defeated Jay Bradley & Hernandez in 3:55. Anderson wouldn’t tag in, leaving Magnus to work solo. Magnus schoolboyed Hernandez for the pin.

* Aces & Eights cut a promo about the Five Guys in the Main Event Mafia. MEM came out and challenged them to a fight next week in Louisville. Aces declined. MEM said Bully Ray will be defending his title next week. They vowed to reveal their new member tonight.

* Kaz & Bobby Roode defeated Daniels & Austin Aries. A great 6:20 match. Daniels broke up a Kaz pin to tease dissension. Kaz small packaged Daniels a few seconds later for the pin. Bad Influence teased a split but left together.

* All the winning teams enter Gauntlet tonight. Winner of that gets 25 points in the BFG Series.

* Gail Kim defeated Taryn Terrell in an awesome ladder match to become the new number one contender for the TNA Knockouts championship in 11:36.

* Magnus pinned Bobby Roode to win a six man Gauntlet in 15:02. Really good.

* Hulk Hogan came out and put over Chris Sabin, who came to the ring. Aces & Eights came out and Bully Ray warned him not to cash in at Destination X next week. Sabin cut a great promo saying he pinned 3D in Team 3D’s final match and he was the only one to ever kick out of 3D. Sabin handed Hulk Hogan the X-Division title to cash in. The Main Event Mafia came out and declared that no matter what, it would be one on one next week. They introduced Rampage Jackson as their newest member. Jackson was there dressed in street clothes but did not do or say anything. That appeared to have been the end of Impact.

(source: PWInsider.com)

WWE Counts Down The Most Explosive Ring Entrances, FCW Station Officially Shut Down

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– WWE counts down the most explosive ring entrances of all-time in the latest episode of WWE Top 10. Among those featured are Ultimate Warrior, Goldberg, Kurt Angle and Kane.

– With WWE transferring its developmental headquarters to the WWE Performance Center launching next week in Winter Park, Florida, its former developmental station, Florida Championship Wrestling, has been officially shut down. Material and rings held at the FCW Arena in Tampa were broken down on Friday, and what is being kept by WWE is being transferred to the new station today and tomorrow.

(source: PWInsider.com)

Shawn Michaels Says He’s Reached Out To Eric Bischoff; Discusses His Legacy In Wrestling & More

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WWE Hall of Famer and former four-time WWE/World Heavyweight Champion, “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels, along with his “MacMillan River Adventures” co-host, Keith Mark, were the featured guests on this week’s all-new edition of the award-winning Monday Night Mayhem, hosted by The Big Mosh & “The Chairman of the Board” Todd Vincent. Highlights from the interview, courtesy of WrestlingDVDNews.com’s Aarnon Carnevale, are as follows:

How “Shawn Michaels’ MacMillan River Adventures” is similar to the WWE: (Shawn): “It is still TV. There are still things that you have got to do. I’ve been an athlete most of my life, and I can follow instructions very well. That is one of the things Keith brings to the table: He is a good leader, and he knows what he wants. We have similarities in that respect, and I have to give Keith a ton of credit for that, because he handles everything under the sun.”

Which WWE Superstars have taken a liking to MRA Hunting and which former WWE/WCW personality they have “reached out to” that has a very good chance of appearing on the program in the future: (Shawn): “Road Dogg, Tensai, and The Big Show always talk about it. Obviously, you do your best to work with their schedule. That’s always the toughest part. But a number of guys have expressed interest, and we’re certainly going to do what we can to work around their schedules. Heck, I reached out to Eric Bischoff. So we’re going to try to get Eric to come on a show with us.”

Based on the success of MRA Hunting to this point, the likelihood of their show returning for a fourth season on the Outdoor Channel: (Keith): “I can tell you for sure that there will be 2014/2015 ‘Shawn Michaels’ McMillan River Adventures,’ because we’ve signed a long-term deal with the network the Outdoor Channel) that runs through 2015, so we have commitments.”

His thoughts on his legacy in professional wrestling & sports-entertainment and how he believes his fans will remember his career: (Shawn): “I get in trouble for it a lot, and I don’t mean it in a malicious way, but I don’t give a lot of thought to that. It’s not because I don’t care, but it is, because I recognize that I have no control over that. If nothing else, I’ve gotten really good over the years at not concerning myself with those things that I can’t control. It’s like trying to ‘make sense of the insensible,’ and I don’t waste my time or energy on that kind of stuff.”

Much more is contained in Shawn’s & Keith’s highly-anticipated Mayhem debut, including their candid thoughts on how they became friends and how their show first came to fruition, the feedback from the first season of MRA Hunting, if they believed the program would have ever seen a second/third season, why they feel they have such great on-camera chemistry between them, the biggest things they have learned while doing the show, what makes Season III different from the previous seasons of the program, why they enjoy having WWE Superstars come on their show with them, what fans can expect when watching Jim Ross’ first-ever appearance on MRA Hunting, the experience of helping the victims of the Joplin tornado, their personal get-well message to NFL Hall of Fame QB and Buffalo Bills Legend Jim Kelly, plus so much more!

To listen to the audio interview, click here.

Cody & Dusty Rhodes Continue Their “Duel” With JBL, Drew McIntyre Working Singles Matches, More

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– In this week’s edition of The JBL & Cole Show, Cody Rhodes and WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes continuing their “Duel” storyline with John “Bradshaw” Layfield, the Prime Time Players re-enacting a scene from The Notebook, and Theodore Long and his grandson appear.

– 3MB member Drew McIntyre will be competing in singles matches during this weekend’s live event tour. He wrote on Twitter, “Reminder.Flying solo, Bismarck got a rapid reminder that Drew McIntyre is the most aggressive man in sports entertainment. Fargo you’re next.”

– Dustin Runnels, formerly known as Goldust, will appear at the Frank & Son Collectible Show 19649 San Jose Ave. City of Industry, California, this Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Call 714-496-4578 for more information.

Shawn Michaels Denies Speculation That Vince McMahon Lacks Faith In Daniel Bryan

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During an interview with the Ministry of Slam podcast two weeks ago, WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels acknowledged a recent conversion he had with WWE Chairman and CEO Vince McMahon where the 67-year-old said he doesn’t “see money” in a certain, unnamed WWE Superstar. Bryan Alvarez of F4WOnline.com reported on Friday that according to sources within the sports-entertainment organization, that individual is Daniel Bryan. Michaels, however, is denying online that they were discussing Bryan, and that the individual in question is actually 6’3″ and 250 pounds.

In a response to a Twitter user directing a message to McMahon stating, “Remember when you didn’t have faith in @ShawnMichaels ?…. Bottom line is that @WWEDanielBryan is HOT!,” Michaels responded, “We weren’t speaking of [Daniel Bryan], that was the assumption of net folks. Way off, as usual.”

In response to a query to name the individual in question, Michaels said he would not, but noted that “he’s 6’3 250.” The WWE Hall of Famer later said that those figures may not be exact, as it is his estimate. “Well, I didn’t measure or weigh him, it’s a guess. Therefore, in their eyes I am a LIAR!!!” he said in response to a user guessing the individual as Dolph Ziggler.

Michaels again denied assumptions that he was talking about the Washington native, stating the following in response to outing the individual: “I would have said if I thought relevant. Not [Daniel Bryan] tho.”

Michaels revealed that McMahon is actually high on Bryan. In response to a user labeling the WWE CEO as “stupid” for not firmly backing Bryan, Michaels said, “That isn’t even who we were talking about. [Vince McMahon]’s big on DB. Shame y’all let those folks work you like that. #thinkforyourself.”

As reported earlier, Michaels said in the interview, “I had a conversation a couple of weeks ago with the man in charge and we were talking about a certain individual and he goes, ‘I just don’t see money in him.’ And I said, ‘You said the same thing about me.’ He said, ‘I did not.’ I said, ‘Yes you did!’ (laughs) I said, ‘And it’s okay. It’s just one of those things.'”

Michaels compared McMahon’s views on the unnamed wrestler to himself, as he believes he wasn’t viewed as a “prototypical main event guy” during his rise to the top of WWE.

“I wasn’t your prototypical—heck, I wasn’t anybody’s prototypical main event guy. And I knew that. So, you just do your absolute best,” said Michaels. “Yes, I was very scared and very worried, which had a lot to do with how bad I handled stuff because I spent a great deal of my career waiting for the other shoe to drop. Because it was a very real view of me and my ability and my talent. I’m a firm believer that talent does rise to the top, but you have to be patient. So, I spent a great deal of time worried, intimidated, and concerned that with each passing storyline, it might be the last one.”

Kaitlyn Continues AJ Impersonation On “Fallout”, WWE Stars Visit Steve Spurrier, Matt Striker In New Jersey

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– As seen Friday night on SmackDown, Kaitlyn appeared dressed up as AJ Lee in response to the Divas Champion’s mockery of her on Monday’s Raw. She ridiculed her former friend by suggesting that, in addition to the roster of Superstars that the New Jersey native had dated, she also had been romantically affiliated with several of the WWE personnel seated at ringside including ring announcer Lilian Garcia. Kaitlyn continues her mockery of Lee in this week’s SmackDown edition of Backstage Fallout. Plus, Natalya weighs in on her victory over Lee in a Non-title Match and Dolph Ziggler continues his fiesta backstage.

– The official WWE website has posted footage of The Prime Time Players visiting University of South Carolina Gamecocks head football coach—and Titus O’Neil’s former coach at the University of Florida—Steve Spurrier.

– According to WrestlingFigs.com, former WWE announcer Matt Striker will appear at the Englishtown Flea Market located on 90 Wilson Ave. Englishtown, New Jersey, on Saturday, July 27 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Kaitlyn Goes “Behind the Match”, David Otunga Promotes “The Call”, Serena Deeb

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– In the latest edition of Behind the Match, Kaitlyn reveals her strategy in the Triple Threat Match for the WWE Divas Championship at last year’s Hell in Cell pay-per-view event.

– David Otunga appeared on Between the Ropes to promote the release of The Call—the highest-grossing WWE Studios film of all-time—on DVD, Blu-Ray and digital download. The WWE Superstar discussed acting alongside Halle Berry, the sports-entertainment organization’s ongoing youth movement, former tag team partner Curtis Axel, finding a colorful coffee thermos and the clothes to match it, the George Zimmerman court case and more. To listen to the interview, click here.

– Former WWE talent Serena Deeb turns 27-years-old on Saturday. She is now recovered from a serious concussion suffered in late-2011 and has resumed competing for various independent organization.

TNA Knockouts Tag Team Championship Deactivated?, Madison Rayne Rants On Miss Tessmacher

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– The TNA Knockouts Tag Team Championship has apparently been deactivated as the the official website of Impact Wrestling is no longer listing the championship on its roster page.

Last week on Impact Wrestling, Knockouts division executive Brooke Hogan stripped ODB and Eric Young of the title due to Young’s male gender. There was no further announcement made concerning the belts.

The championship was created in 2009 due to the roster depth of the Knockouts division at the time. Sarita and Taylor Wilde became the inaugural champions in September of that year, besting Madison Rayne and Velvet Sky in the finals of a four-team tournament. The final champions, ODB and Young, held the titles for a record 478 days.

– Madison Rayne “spills dirt” on Miss Tessmacher in this week’s “Knockout Blog” as she rants on the fellow former TNA Women’s Knockout Champion’s high-maintenance ways.

Rayne writes, “This week, you are going to get a little behind the scenes 411 on the one and only, the Knockout who is more high maintenance than anyone else on God’s green earth, Miss “ass-gusting” herself, Miss Tessmacher! I’m not quite sure where to even begin with this girl.

“The beauty of feuding with just about every Knockout in the locker room is that I’ve seen how they act on the road, I’ve seen the inside of their gear bags and this girl takes the cake when it comes to needy and finicky! For starters, everywhere she goes she packs a foam roller and a rolling pin?! The roller I can understand. We all get a little beat up from time to time and need a quick fix before the next match. But a rolling pin? I don’t even WANT TO KNOW! I also know that she wears the exact same under garments for every big match. I hope her pretty little brain can efficiently work a washer and dryer. Maybe she just buys stock in the same bra, socks and… never mind. Again, I don’t even WANT to know!

“One thing I do want to know though, is WHY I have caught her on more than one occasion warming up for a match by “booty popping” to Baby Got Back? Really? I need to sit some of these ladies down and give them a lesson on class and elegance! Not hyping themselves up to the lyrics “you can do side bends or sit ups, but please don’t lose that butt!” Thinking about all the things Tessmacher does that drives me insane is going to give me a wrinkle!”

Rayne also addresses Brooke Hogan, who she feels is making poor decisions as Knockouts division executive. To read her full column, click here.

Impact Audience Rebounds From Last Week, Mickie James Video Interview, SoCal Val In Virginia

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– The June 27, 2013 episode of Impact Wrestling garnered a 0.91 cable rating, an increase from 0.86 the week before.

The program averaged 1,108,000 viewers, an improvement from an average of 1,083,000 the week before against stiff competition in Game 7 of the NBA Finals pitting the Miami Heat against the San Antonio Spurs.

In cable television viewership competition on Thursday night, Impact Wrestling placed No. 39 in overall viewers, No. 27 in Males 18-34, and No. 21 among Males 18-49.

– TNA Women’s Knockout Champion Mickie James appeared on KQ2’s Hometown This Morning this morning to promote tonight’s Impact Wrestling event at the St. Joseph Civic Arena in St. Joseph, Missouri. Footage from her appearance is available below.

– SoCal Val will be appearing at the Collectors Showcase Show of America expo taking place July 12-14 at Dulles Expo & Conference Center 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center Chantilly, Virginia.

(source: Pro Wrestling Torch)

Texas Police Investigating Matt “Doink the Clown” Osborne’s Death As Homicide

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Law enforcement officials in Plano, Texas are investigating the death of Matt Osborne, who famously portrayed the Doink the Clown character for WWE in 1992 and 1993, as a homicide.

This is according to TMZ.com, with the belief that it is a standard operating procedure. According to the website, all early indications are that his death was accidental.

Osborne’s girlfriend reportedly found Osborne dead in her home, where he had been residing as of late. No weapons were found on the scene and an autopsy is pending.

To read TMZ.com’s article on the death of Osborne, click here.