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WWE Planning New Training Facility, Marine 3 Release Date, Patterson

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– According to Philadelphia’s Philly Post newspaper, Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie Manuel was ringside at Monday’s RAW, sitting behind the announcers table. Manuel is a longtime WWE fan.

– WWE’s Fan Nation Facebook page noted that WWE Hall of Famer Pat Patterson was in Tampa yesterday working with the WWE developmental talents.

– A trailer for The Miz’s new WWE Studios movie The Marine 3 aired last night during the Tribute to the Troops special on USA. The hype video noted that the movie is scheduled to be released on DVD/Blu-Ray on March 12th.

– Speaking of WWE developmental, WWE is talking about creating a new full-time training facility in (or around) Orlando, Florida. This would become the company’s official training headquarters and would take the place of the current facility in Tampa.

* Find Out Who Is Scheduled To Win The ROYAL RUMBLE (Direct Link)

(Partial Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

Christian’s WWE Return, JBL Receives Hate Mail, WWE Main Event Ratings

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– Christian is expected to return to WWE television in January, in time for the Royal Rumble.

– The December 5th episode of WWE Main Event did a 0.7 rating with 1.18 million viewers. The show featured IC Champion Kofi Kingston vs. US Champion Antonio Cesaro.

The December 12th episode, which had a special start time of 6:30pm (EST), did a 0.4 rating with 600,000 viewers. The show featured Ryback vs. Alberto Del Rio.

– JBL received a hate mail from the fans of Scotland’s Rangers Football Club after mentioning on RAW (12/17) that they recently went bankrupt.

* Updated Card For WRESTLEMANIA & WWE Negotiating With Several Former Superstars

(Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

Sting’s Son Playing Division 1 College Football, Final Resolution Buyrate & More

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USA Today is reporting that Steven Borden, the son of TNA star Sting, has signed with the University of Kentucky to play Division I college football.

– TNA will be taping 4 episodes of Impact Wrestling when the company heads overseas next month for the annual UK Tour. Orlando’s Universal Studios, home of the Impact Zone, issued the following statement this week regarding TNA’s taping schedule:

“There are no IMPACT WRESTLING events at Universal Studios for the month of February 2013 due to the stars of IMPACT WRESTLING entertaining fans in the United Kingdom.”

– Early estimates for this month’s TNA 2012 Final Resolution event show that the event did around 11,000 pay-per-view buys. This is on par with the average TNA PPV.

* Listen To Music From JEFF HARDY’s New Music Album

(Partial Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

Antonio Cesaro Working Injured, Backlash Against Bully Ray’s TLC Tweet & More

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– WWE United States Champion Antonio Cesaro is currently working with several broken fingers and torn tendons in his right hand.

– Following the tragic elementary school shooting that took place last week in Newtown, CT, Vince McMahon is aware that WWE could come under fire once again for teaching violence to children and is fighting that image by continuing to push that WWE is family friendly entertainment that puts “smiles on faces.”

– Following Sunday’s Tables, Ladders & Chairs pay-per-view, TNA star Bully Ray tweeted, “Dudleys, Hardys, E&C…still the KINGS of TLC. Anybody doubt that? Of course not. #BULLYNATION.”

Ray’s tweet was a topic of conversation backstage at Monday’s RAW, with most people agreeing that he did not come off well by making that comment. He later clarified on Twitter that he was not meaning to be a d-bag, but was “just proud of what we did.”

(Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)

Ricky Morton Talks About Rock & Roll Express Forming & How The Wrestling Business Has Changed

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Kayfabe Wrestling Radio
Hosted by Alan Wojcik & Spug
Listen Live on Tuesdays at 9pm ET on Wildtalkradio.com

Listen Here: Ricky Morton on Kayfabe Wrestling Radio (.MP3)

One half of the legendary tag-team “The Rock N’ Roll Express” Ricky Morton joined Kayfabe Wrestling Radio Tuesday Night. In a nearly 30 minute interview, he discussed how the ‘Rock N’ Roll Express’ came together, facing the Fabulous Ones (Stan Lane and Steve Keirn), working for Jerry Lawler and Jerry Jarrett in Memphis back in the day and how he got started in wrestling, the differences with wrestling today, on moving to and working with the Crockett’s NWA promotion, being part of Starrcade ’85 and selling out two arenas for one event, the iconic match between the Rock ‘N Roll Express and the Andersons from Starrcade ’86 and that being named Steve Austin’s favorite match of all time, working different styles and the role of the babyface back in the day, his times as Richard Morton in WCW with the York Foundation and what as more fun: being Ricky Morton or Richard Morton, his upcoming match with Jerry Lynn vs Kid Kash and MMA fighter Josh Shockman at Crossfire Wrestling’s TV Taping and more.

On how the Rock N Roll Express come together as a team: “Well, I knew Robert real good; but in 1983, matter of fact this is our 30 year anniversary that Robert and I have been tag team partners, Jerry Lawler in Memphis, Tennessee put us together in 1983. We were, back then, were looking for a place; they had the Fabulous Ones in there and were looking for another tag-team, so he (Jerry) put Robert and I together and they came up with the “R N’ R Express”, the Rock N’ Roll Express, and that’s what we stuck with man.

Working for Jerry Lawler and Jerry Jarrett in Memphis and how he got into wrestling: “Oh, they were great. But you got to remember; we were back in the time when Memphis was real hot, that was after when Jerry and Jeff Jarrett and all of them came up there. Working for Lawler, you got to understand; not only working with Lawler, you had Bill Dundee too; they were two great, great thinkers, booker wise, for business. You got have to understand, you had to keep this territory going; you had to have new ideas. If you were working on top and you didn’t sell Memphis and Louisville and Evansville out, they moved you down the figurative spot.

That’s why I followed my dad’s footsteps; my dad was a referee there. He wrestled in the early days but he was a referee there in Memphis. You’ve got to understand, I’ve been in the business all my life; I broke into the business. I started when I was a very young kid, I’m talking back in elementary school, going with him and putting the rings up. But eventually I started in Memphis; I started out, first of all, with a promoter of the name of Nick Gulas in Nashville, Tennessee and then when I switched and went to Memphis and it was like going to the show, going the big leagues. When you stepped into the Memphis Coliseum, it was 10-12,000 people and that was every Monday night and working with these guys from all over; when you stop and look, some of the greatest stars that ever been in this business came out of Memphis, Tennessee because there you had to learn to carry the load, you had to learn what to do. You had Lawler, you had Jarrett and you had Bill Dundee and that was the main three that really ran that territory and kept it going, giving the people something to see every week and bring excitement to them. To me, it was a great pleasure to be there, you understand?”

The differences working back then as opposed to today: “Now-a-days, and I’m not taking nothing away from nobody, and understand these younger guys don’t have the opportunity to learn like we did and how sacred our business was too. You wrestled every night and you got into the programs and you were on a bicycle tape of the towns if you know what I mean by that; you went around from town to town and it wasn’t that you had the same match every night because you had to follow your TV shows and your shows were on a bicycle tape; it was a week late getting from Memphis to Louisville the next night. You might start an angle on Saturday with somebody that went to Memphis that Monday, but on that Tuesday, you had to wrestle from a week before that, which you shot on TV. And it was a great experience learning, not only that but watching how these guys ran these programs and kept them going. And another thing about back then, and I don’t know if you understand, the heel and babyfaces kayfabed; we didn’t even dress in the same locker rooms, so we didn’t have the time, like these guys do today, to go over every move of your match. When you went out, you called everything in the ring, you know, your finishes, well not the finish but every move you did. That was just the way it was back then with our business and I’m sorry that guys missed out, but business was different back then.”

What was more fun: being Ricky Morton or Richard Morton from this time with the York Foundation in WCW: “To tell you the truth, I’m Ricky Morton, that’s who I am and that’s who I’ve built my character off of for years. Robert (Gibson) got hurt, that’s what that was all about and I was lost in the shuffle. So, I had to keep a job, so they turned me heel and made me part of the York foundation. It’s not like I had a choice; I just needed to change a bit of character and it didn’t last for long because it wasn’t me and I didn’t stay in WCW much longer than that; that’s when Robert and I went to Smokey Mountain Wrestling and we toured. They only reason Robert and I weren’t together was cause Robert got injured and was out for about a year. So I had a lot more fun being Ricky Morton. We were just lost in the shuffle.”

For more information the upcoming Crossfire Wrestling TV Taping on January 5th, go to Crossfire’s website (www.crossfireLLC.vze.com), their Facebook (www.facebook.com/CrossfireWrestling) or through their Twitter page (@CrossfireLLC) to get the latest information, updated card of matches and more. A portion of proceeds from the event will benefit the Make-A-Wish foundation of Middle Tennessee.

TNA Impact Wrestling Preview: Championship Thursday

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The following is TNA’s official preview for tonight’s Impact Wrestling on Spike TV:

– It’s the return of CHAMPIONSHIP THURSDAY with an epic main event as World Heavyweight Champion “The Charismatic Enigma” Jeff Hardy will defend the gold against former titleholder Austin Aries!

– The Knockouts Championship will also be on the line as Tara defends the title against one of these four superstars: Mickie James, Velvet Sky, Miss Tessmacher or ODB! The potential challengers will make their case to Knockouts Executive in Charge Brooke Hogan, and Brooke will select who receives the title shot!

– Also on the CHAMPIONSHIP THURSDAY edition of IMPACT, the Television Championship will be defended as Devon of The Aces and Eights puts his title on the line against the Olympic Gold Medalist – Kurt Angle!

– Plus, just days before the big holiday, Kazarian promises to throw a party on the broadcast in honor of Christopher Daniels to celebrate his big win over AJ Styles at Final Resolution!

All this and much more on Thursday’s special holiday IMPACT WRESTLING broadcast on SpikeTV

*SPOILERS* WWE SmackDown Tapings Results (12/28)

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WWE taped next Friday’s 12/28 edition of SmackDown tonight from Rochester, NY. Here are ongoing results, courtesy of Eric Buttaccio & PWInsider.com:

– Footage was shown of the closing moments of the Sheamus versus Big Show Lumberjack match from the December 24th episode of Raw.

– Show starts with an in ring promo with Sheamus. Sheamus challenges Big Show for a World Title match tonight. Big Show comes out and says that Sheamus can’t beat him when it counts. Big show says that the locker room is full of losers and no one is worthy of a title shot.

– Booker T comes out and says that every superstar’s name will be in a tumbler including Sheamus and the name that gets picked gets a World Title match tonight. The whole locker room comes out to see which name gets picked. The name that gets picked is . . . Santino Marella.

– Brodus Clay defeated Epico

– Backstage segment with Sheamus and Santino with Sheamus trying to teach the Brogue Kick to Santino. While trying the Brogue Kick, Sheamus pulls his hamstring.

– Wade Barrett, Cody Rhodes, and Damien Sandow defeated Kane, Daniel Bryan and Kofi Kingston when Barrett pinned Kofi.

– Backstage Booker T picked another name from the tumbler due to Santino’s injury. Show wanted to know who his opponent would be, but Booker said he will find out soon

– Back to Booker’s office. The new opponent for Big Show is Ricardo Rodriguez, who Teddy Long brings to the office. Big Show laughs and tells Ricardo to announce himself as World Champion. As Ricardo does his introduction, Show gives Ricardo the WMD.

– Antonio Cesaro defeated Zack Ryder

– Dolph Ziggler defeated The Miz with the Zig Zag after a distraction from Big E Langston and AJ.

A- fter the match, Miz says that no matter who AJ is with on New Years Eve, it will end with a bang. This caused Dolph and Langston to go back to the ring and Langston gave Miz the Big Ending.

– Backstage Booker and the doctor check on Ricardo. Brad Maddox asks for one more chance, Booker says Maddox gets one last shot. Alberto Del Rio comes to check on Ricardo and threatens to go after Big Show. Booker T offers Alberto the World Title match.

– Sheamus defeated Brad Maddox

– The Usos defeated the Primetime Players via a small package after the Usos did “twin magic”

– Big show defeats Alberto Del Rio by DQ when Sheamus attacked Big show as he tried to leave.

– The rest of the locker room comes out to prevent big show from leaving and throw him back to the ring where Alberto hits Big Show and then Sheamus hits the Brogue Kick on Big Show to end the program.

Trailer For “Pain & Gain” With The Rock, Pictures Of Eve Visiting Troops & More

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– Zack Ryder noted on Twitter that today marks five years since he and former tag team partner Curt Hawkins (formerly known as the Major Brothers) were declared “Edgeheads” by WWE Hall of Famer Edge:

– WWE Divas champion Eve Torres has posted a series of exclusive pictures from when she, John Cena and other WWE superstars visited the United States Navy during the Tribute to the Troops weekend earlier this month. You can view the photos at EveTorres.com.

– A fan asked The Rock on Twitter if he’d ever consider writing a fitness book. The Rock replied that he’s actually working on his second memoir:

– The first movie trailer has been released for the Michael Bay bodybuilder movie, “Pain & Gain” starring Dwayne “The rock” Johnson and Mark Wahlberg. The movie hits theaters in the US on April 26, 2013:

The Rock Teasing Another Match With Cena, WWE Comments On THQ Bankruptcy

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– WWE has commented on the news of their video game publisher, THQ, filing for bankruptcy:

“WWE is following the developments of THQ’s bankruptcy filing today and proposed sale under Bankruptcy Code Section 363. The Company anticipates actively participating within this proceeding.”

– With all the talk of The Rock and John Cena heading for a WrestleMania rematch in April, The Rock says the idea of another showdown with Cena has a “good ring to it.”

On Tuesday, The Rock tweeted, “When you succeed – embrace & enjoy it. When you fail – honor & respect it. #OurFailuresLeadUsToOurSuccesses.” John Cena re-tweeted the message, saying, “Can’t believe I’m doing this but couldn’t say it better myself ”

Today, The Rock commented on John Cena endorsing his tweet and dropped another hint that we could see them back in the ring one day:

* The Latest On WWE’s Plans For The Top Matches at WRESTLEMANIA

SmackDown Rating, Matches Taped For Next Week’s WWE Main Event (12/26)

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– The dark match prior to tonight’s WWE TV tapings from Rochester, NY saw Alicia Fox defeat Aksana.

– WWE taped the following matches tonight for next week’s 12/26 episode of Main Event:

* 3MB (Jinder Mahal and Drew McIntyre) vs. Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel in tag team action.

* 20-man Battle Royal, with the winner earning a title shot against United States champion Antonio Cesaro on the January 2nd episode of Main Event.

– Last night’s SmackDown Supershow drew a 2.29 cable rating with 3.33 million viewers. SmackDown ranked #4 on cable for the night. The last time SmackDown aired live on Tuesday night (11/6), the show had a 1.52 rating, so that’s a good sign for WWE.

* Pictures of MARK HENRY’s Amazing Weight Loss

(Partial Source: PWTorch.com)

Jim Ross Blog: Ric Flair’s WWE Future, The Shield’s Performance At TLC & More

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WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog at JRSBBQ.com with his thoughts on Sunday’s TLC pay-per-view, Monday’s Slammy Awards edition of RAW and more. Here are some highlights of what he said about:

The Shield’s Performance at TLC: “The Shield rocked at TLC in the 6 man tag but one cannot forget that they did not perform alone. Kane, who is a future HOF talent, Daniel Bryan, who may be the best all around performer in WWE, and newcomer of the year Ryback obviously added to the equation. Bottom line is that the 6 man tag was memorable, exciting to watch, and next to impossible to follow.”

Monday’s RAW: “RAW was a fun experience. I didn’t know that I was needed until Sunday evening but was excited and pleased to get the call. It’s always good to see old friends and there were many on hand in Philly Monday. I had no idea that Ric Flair was at the arena as I did not see him until he went out to present the Slammy for Superstar of the Year. We caught up after Raw late into the night along with Mean Gene, Pat Paterson and a handful of other friends. I do know that my 4:30 am wake up call came much too early to enable me to take the first flight out of Philly back to OKC.”

Ric Flair’s future: “Not sure of Ric Flair’s long term future with WWE but I’m assuming that Naitch wants to land back in WWE for the long haul. Ric has great value and name identity and in the proper role can obviously contribute to WWE. Assuming Ric never wrestles again, his verbal skills and long established persona can be an asset. The smartest WWE talents will use Ric as resource and with reverent respect. The others will be sorry of the missed opportunity.”

Steve Austin Talks About His Dream Opponents, The Attidude Era & More

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The official WWE website has an interview up with “Stone Cold” Steve Austin talking about the new WWE ’13 video game. Here are some highlights of what Austin said about:

Why He’s Considered The Face of the Attitude Era: “I guess I was just an entertaining guy. It’s hard for me to answer that question, because it’s cool to be that guy. But I’m not gonna sit here and blow smoke up my a**. I guess I just turned it up to be loud and aggressive, and I meant what I said and I did what I said.

I think the character of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, he was a pretty honest and straight-shooting cat, and he was digging and scratching and clawing to get to the top in the business that he loved and it showed in the work and in the persona I created.”

Did WWE Go Too Far with The Attitude Era? “No, no. I said, “a**,” “hell yeah” — stuff like that. And “a**” is about every other word that came out of my mouth back then, as it is in my current life. I happen to love that word. There is nothing I ever said that pushed the envelope too far from a language parameter.

You look at the time when Bret Hart flipped out and said, this is garbage. Everybody back in that dressing room knows that promo when he pushed Vince on his a** was further than anywhere I ever went within a language — I never went there.”

Who He Wish He Could Have Wrestled: “It’s always fun to think about what it would have been like if me and Goldberg had gotten into the ring, to see what would have happened if me and Hollywood Hogan got involved in serious matches, and not in a one-off match. It would have been fun to have worked with a guy like Ultimate Warrior, it would have been fun to do a bunch of matches with Randy Savage, or [Ric] Flair — I would have liked to work a high-profile series with him.

Hell, just because Bruno Sammartino just threw me under the bus a couple of months ago, it would’ve been to fun to work with him. You talk about the entertainment aspect, that’s what wrestling’s all about.”

* STEVE AUSTIN Talks About Being Healthy & Able To Wrestle Again

WWE Announces Royal Rumble Fan Fest

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WWE has announced that next month’s 2013 Royal Rumble from Phoenix, Arizona will feature a Royal Rumble Fan Fest. Tickets go on sale this Thursday morning, with the fan fest taking place on Saturday, January 26th from the US Airways Center, the day before the Rumble.

The events will include three Superstar Panels, including one looking at the Montreal Screwjob, one focusing on DX and the other looking at the Monday Night Wars. Fans can buy tickets to the Royal Rumble Fan Fest, an “All-Access Experience” or the three individual panels. Here is additional information on each event from Ticketmaster.com:

WWE Royal Rumble Fan Fest

– WWE Ring with NXT matches
– Appearances by WWE Superstars, Divas and Legends (will not include autographs)
– Live Bands
– Food Trucks
– Local Sponsors

WWE Royal Rumble Fan Fest ALL-ACCESS Experience

– Street Fair Ticket for Saturday 1/26/13 12p – 4p only
– Located on 1st Street between Madison and Jefferson & on the USAC Plaza
– All 3 Fan Panels discussions with moderator plus WWE Superstars and Legends
– Located in the Casino Arizona Pavilion
– VIP reception in Blue Moon Club follows panel where fan mingle with WWE Superstars and Legends
– Includes food and beverage
– Commemorative Autographed Gift per person

Panel #1: Montreal Screwjob:

November 9, 1997: a day that will forever live in sports entertainment infamy. Over a decade later, the Montreal Screwjob still remains one of the most unforgettable moments in WWE history. Return to the scene of the crime, and revisit the whole story from the people who experienced it firsthand.

Panel #2: DX:

WWE Universe, ARE YOU READY??? From an era filled with rule-breakers, DX stands alone as the most uncontrollable, unpredictable, and undeniable force in WWE history. Get a first-hand lowdown on DX’s most rebellious exploits and discuss the group’s lasting legacy from DX members ready to tell it all.

Panel #3: WCW & Monday Night Wars

For 84 consecutive weeks during the Monday Night Wars, WCW defeated WWE in the ratings on the strength of the nWo phenomenon, the wizardry of the cruiserweights, and an almost unlimited budget. Hear from WCW’s most influential personalities as they tell the in-depth story of the innovative thinking that led to WCW’s meteoric rise and the embarrassing failures that ultimately led to its downfall.

WWE Video Game Publisher THQ Files For Bankruptcy

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THQ, WWE’s video game publisher, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and will seek a buyer to help it recover from years of business and creative missteps.

The Agoura Hills, California company is working with private investment firm Clearlake Capital Group, which has agreed to enter a $60-million “stalking horse” bid for THQ’s U.S. assets. Any potential suitor for THQ would have to offer more than that.

Details of the move were made available in the following press release.

THQ Inc. Secures Asset Purchase Agreement with Affiliates of Clearlake Capital Group, L.P.

Clearlake Offers to Acquire THQ’s Assets Via Section 363 under Chapter 11; Company Obtains Commitment for Interim Financing to Fund Operations Without Interruption

AGOURA HILLS, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Dec. 19, 2012– THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI), a leading worldwide developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software, today announced that it entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement with a “stalking horse bidder,” affiliates of Clearlake Capital Group, L.P., to acquire substantially all of the assets of THQ’s operating business, including THQ’s four owned studios and games in development. The sale will allow THQ to shed certain legacy obligations and emerge with the strong financial backing of a new owner with substantial experience in software and technology.

To facilitate the sale, THQ and its domestic business units have filed voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The company’s foreign operations, including Canada, are not included in the filings. The company has obtained commitments from Wells Fargo and Clearlake for debtor-in possession (DIP) financing of approximately $37.5 million, subject to Court approval.

THQ will continue operating its business without interruption during the sale period, subject to Court approval of THQ’s first-day motions. All of the company’s studios remain open, and all development teams continue. The company remains confident in its existing pipeline of games. THQ maintains relationships with some of the top independent development studios around the globe. As part of the sale, the company is seeking approval to assume the contracts of these studios, and Clearlake will assume these contracts.

“The sale and filing are necessary next steps to complete THQ’s transformation and position the company for the future, as we remain confident in our existing pipeline of games, the strength of our studios and THQ’s deep bench of talent,” said Brian Farrell, Chairman and CEO of THQ. “We are grateful to our outstanding team of employees, partners and suppliers who have worked with us through this transition. We are pleased to have attracted a strong financial partner for our business, and we hope to complete the sale swiftly to make the process as seamless as possible.”

According to Jason Rubin, who joined THQ as President last May, “We have incredible, creative talent here at THQ. We look forward to partnering with experienced investors for a new start as we will continue to use our intellectual property assets to develop high-quality core games, create new franchise titles, and drive demand through both traditional and digital channels.”

Clearlake has agreed to serve as the “stalking horse bidder” for a Section 363 sale process, which allows other interested parties to come forward with competing bids. Aggregate consideration offered by Clearlake for the purchase totals approximately $60 million, including a new $10 million note for the benefit of the company’s creditors. The company is asking the Court for a schedule to complete the sale process in about 30 days.

Consumers and retailers should see no changes while the company completes a sale. The new financing will support business operations throughout the period. THQ does not intend to reduce its workforce as a result of the filing, and employees will continue to work their usual schedules and receive normal compensation and benefits, pending customary Court approval.

As is the case after a Chapter 11 filing, THQ expects to receive notice from NASDAQ informing the company that its shares will be delisted from the exchange within nine calendar days of notification.

THQ is being advised by Centerview Partners LLC and FTI Consulting as its financial advisors and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher as legal counsel. Clearlake is being advised by DLA Piper as legal counsel.

For additional information about THQ, please visit www.thq.com. For information regarding the Chapter 11 case, please visit www.kccllc.net/thq.

Mick Foley Talks To Marvel Comics About Tonight’s Tribute To The Troops Special

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WWE legend Mick Foley spoke with the official website of Marvel Comics to promote tonight’s Tribute To The Troops show on the USA Network. Here are some highlights of what Foley said about:

WWE’s Tribute to the Troops Special:: It’s changed a lot in that we’re doing them in the U.S. as opposed to overseas. It’s a major difference. By doing it in the U.S. we’re able to show our support, have a great time, and not put the guys who are on the road full time through quite as much.

His Favorite Tribute to the Troops Moment: “I think my favorite moment was announcing that we have been signing a lot of autographs and that it was time for them to sign some autographs for me. So I threw a t-shirt out into the crowd for them to sign, and an hour later it made its way back into the locker room covered. It was like a work of art. It just had hundreds of signatures in every conceivable place. After holding on to it for several years, I thought that it really should be displayed at WWE headquarters. So I sent it along and I believe it’s framed and hanging there. But I also had the chance dressing up as Santa to vanquish the bad Santa Claus who turned out to be JBL in a Santa’s toy match where I ended up pummeling [him] with an oversized sack. A match so bad it was good.

Foley also talked about comic books and which WWE superstars he would pit comic book hero Captain America against.

* Pictures of MARK HENRY’s Amazing Weight Loss

Seth Rollins Explains The Shield’s Attacks, SmackDown Taping Tonight, Inbox

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– Following The Shield’s latest round of attacks on WWE superstars, Shield member Seth Rollins has given further explanation regarding his group’s tactics. He tweeted on Tuesday:

– WWE will be taping next Friday’s 12/28 edition of SmackDown tonight from Rochester, New York. No matches have been announced for the show, but the advertised dark match main event is Big Show vs. Sheamus. We’ll have spoilers up on the site tonight, so check back later for those.

– Here is the latest episode of the WWE Inbox Youtube show:

“The Prime Time Players are taking over “WWE Inbox.” Watch what happens when Titus O’Neil and Darren Young confront Ryback and other Superstars on YouTube this week!”

ECW Original Completes Rehab Program, John Cena Congratulates WWE Fan, Shawn Daivari Auctioning Boots

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– Peter Polaco, better known as Justin Credible, announced Wednesday on Facebook the completion of a 35-day stay in a rehabilitation program.

The former WWE wrestler and one-time ECW World Heavyweight Champion has been battling issues with substance abuse. In April, Credible was asked to leave an “Extreme Reunion” event in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, after he was found “slumped over, passed out asleep” in a chair backstage.

– The official WWE website released the following video of John Cena sending a special message to Brady Bane after hearing about his contribution to the Susan G. Komen Cure For The Foundation.

– Former WWE wrestler Shawn Daivari is auctioning off a pair of boots he wore in WWE, TNA, Ring of Honor and wrestling rings all over the globe. (Auction Link)

WWE Announces The Expansion Of Their Office In India

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WWE sent out the following press release today announcing the expansion of their office in India:

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. : WWE Expands Its Office In India

MUMBAI, India, December 19, 2012 – WWE (NYSE: WWE) today announced the appointment of Mayuri Pitale as Consumer & Promotions Licensing (CPL) Manager and Carl Sequeira as Marketing Manager in its India office. The appointment of these two key positions is a testament to WWE’s growth in India and ongoing commitment to developing that market.

Pitale will be responsible for spearheading the licensing and retail expansion for WWE in India, and Sequeira will be responsible for executing marketing campaigns to help develop and grow the brand and support WWE’s various lines of business across the region.

Mayuri Pitale joins WWE India from EXTEND Brands, India’s first independent licensing agency, specializing in licensed merchandise and live events. Prior to this, Mayuri worked with MTV Networks India Ltd. (Viacom) managing their India consumer products business where she pioneered many initiatives such as MTV credit cards & MTV prepaid SIM cards.

Carl Sequeira comes to WWE from FILA, where he spent three years as Marketing Head, having been a part of the start-up team that launched the brand in India in 2009. Prior to that, he was with experiential marketing company “Below the Line” for five years. Carl has a Business Management degree from Welingkar Institute of Business in Mumbai, and brings a great deal of brand building experience to his position.

Both employees are based in Mumbai and will report to Rukn Kizilbash, the General Manager of WWE India.

About WWE:
WWE, a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 600 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, London, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo.

Additional information on WWE (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to https://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.

Undertaker’s Status For WM29, Vickie Trash Talks AJ Lee, Kofi-Barrett

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– Triple H announced on Monday’s RAW that fans have not seen the last of the Undertaker in a WWE ring. While the natural assumption is that the Undertaker will be defending his undefeated streak at WrestleMania 29, Jim Ross says that’s not a done deal just yet. A fan tweeted JR saying, “taker returns to fight again at wrestlemania.” JR replied:

– Vickie Guerrero continues to take shots at AJ Lee on Twitter. She tweeted on Wednesday morning:

https://twitter.com/excusemewwe/status/281307355096940544

One of Vickie’s followers wrote to her, “You are the best! AJ has nothing on you. #Cougar.” Vickie replied with:

https://twitter.com/excusemewwe/status/281308140597809153

– Kofi Kingston also did some trash talking about his rival Wade Barrett on Twitter:

Tommy Dreamer Hospitalized After Beatdown By The Shield (Graphic Pictures)

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* Warning: Some of the images below are graphic!

After making a surprise return to WWE on Monday night from Philadelphia, PA, ECW original Tommy Dreamer wound up in the emergency room on Tuesday due to “complications from The Shield’s beatdown”on RAW. Dreamer posted a series of tweets (and graphic pictures) detailing his trip to the hospital. Dreamer tweeted on Tuesday:

PWInsider.com is reporting that Tommy Dreamer being brought in for RAW from Philadelphia was a last minute decision and he reportedly didn’t get the call to appear until Monday afternoon. As noted earlier this week, WWE was very impressed with the crowd reaction he got from the local crowd and are open to using him again in the future.

WWE App Breaks Records During 2012 Slammy Awards (Press Release)

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WWE sent out the following press release this morning:

WWE App Breaks Records During 2012 Slammy Awards

Total App Downloads Now More Than 3 Million!

As you know, earlier this month WWE launched an unprecedented second screen experience, “WWE Active,” on its WWE flagship app, including the delivery of live match continuation, backstage content, live polls, photos, trivia and exclusive information on WWE Superstars and Divas.

For the first time ever, the 2012 Slammy Award winners (which were announced LIVE at 8/7 CT on USA Network this past Monday) were determined by fans, exclusively inside the WWE App.

It was a record-setting night for the second-screen, as WWE had the second biggest single day of downloads since launch with more than 151,000 downloads and more than 583,000 Slammy votes.

The app also saw more than 24,000 app updates — the largest single day of updates ever and the event pushed the WWE flagship app over the 3 million app download mark in215 countries, since it launched just four months ago.

The Top 5 total votes for all Slammys nominees were:

* Kiss of the Year = 95,581

* Superstar of the Year = 93,805

* LOL Moment of the Year = 81,131

* Trending Now Award = 74,386

* Match of the Year = 70,568

“WWE Active” provides a second screen TV companion experience that is customized for Monday Night Raw, SmackDown and WWEMain Event, in addition to a 24/7 platform for the WWE Universe on-the-go. Using mobile location technology, users can also order tickets to local events, watch and purchase pay-per-views, buy authentic WWE merchandise via WWEShop.com and follow social conversations happening in their area.

WWE Tribute To The Troops Preview For Tonight

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Tonight on the USA Network, WWE presents the 10th Annual Tribute To The Troops special.

* John Cena vs. United States champion Antonio Cesaro.

* Big Show & Dolph Ziggler vs. Sheamus & Randy Orton.

* Ryback vs. Alberto Del Rio.

* Team Hell No & R-Truth vs. 3MB.

* The Miz vs. Damien Sandow.

* Divas Champion Eve Torres vs. Layla.

* Sin Cara, Great Khali, Brodus Clay & Hornswoggle vs. Tensai, David Otunga, Primo & Epico.

Plus, The Miz hosts Miz TV with his guest, Kermit the Frog and there will be musical performances by Kid Rock and Flo Rida.

*Spoiler* Stipulation Added To CM Punk vs. Ryback On RAW (1/7/13)

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At Tuesday’s WWE SmackDown Supershow, Ryback told CM Punk that he wants his guaranteed WWE title match against Punk on the first RAW of 2013, which takes place on Monday, January 7th.

At the WWE RAW tapings that took place immediately after SmackDown airing next Monday night (Christmas Eve, 12/24), it was announced that the match will be a Tables, Ladders & Chairs match.

This will be the match that was originally scheduled to take place at this past weekend’s TLC pay-per-view before Punk underwent his recent knee surgery and will allow WWE to transition to CM Punk vs. The Rock the following week at the 20th Anniversary of RAW.

Ryback vs. Punk On First RAW Of 2013, Sin Cara & Rey Mysterio Written Off TV

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Tuesday night’s Super SmackDown special featured a few notable news items:

* Rey Mysterio and Sin Cara have been written off television after both men were attacked by The Shield. Rey Mysterio was attacked before the show went on the air and suffered a “serious neck injury,” while Sin Cara was attacked after his match by Cody Rhodes. Sin Cara has been working through an injury to his left knee and The Shield focused on Sin Cara’s knee during their attack on SmackDown.

* Ryback interrupted CM Punk’s promo on the show and said he wants his guaranteed WWE title match against Punk on the first RAW of 2013, which takes place on Monday, January 7th. There had been talk of the match taking place the following week, but WWE will wrap up the Punk vs. Ryback feud that night so Punk can transition to his feud with The Rock.

*SPOILERS* For NEXT WEEK’s WWE RAW: Taped Tuesday Night After SMACKDOWN

WWE Super SmackDown Results (12/18/12)

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WWE Super SmackDown Special

Miz TV With Guests Dolph Ziggler & AJ Lee:

Super SmackDown special opens with The Miz hosting Miz TV. Miz says his guests tonight did more damage at TLC than Lindsay Lohan behind the wheel of a car. Dolph Ziggler and AJ Lee. Ziggler and AJ come out holding each other close. Big E Langston comes out after them. Miz asks AJ Lee, “Why?” AJ says he should speak to Cena and ask Cena why he played with her heart. She lost her job as RAW GM trying to keep John Cena’s name clean and then he turned his back on her.

They show a clip of John Cena kissing AJ on RAW last month. AJ thought that was a sign of John Cena showing his love for her, but she he was just using her. AJ says that John Cena only cares for himself. The crowd is chanting “AJ’s Crazy.” AJ says John Cena was supposed to be different. She loved CM Punk and Daniel Bryan – and they both used her and threw her away like trash. Cena was supposed to be better than that and he broke her heart. Miz points out that Ziggler called AJ trash just a few weeks ago. While Miz is talking to AJ, Big E Langston gets in Miz’s face. Dolph Ziggler takes the mic and says AJ isn’t crazy – she’s passionate. He learned that last night when Big E crushed John Cena at the end of RAW. At TLC, like his t-shirt says, he stole the show – and Cena’s girlfriend. The Miz says Ziggler & AJ deserve each other. The Miz says AJ Lee has been with half of the WWE roster and now she’s settled with the 6th member of the boy band One Direction. Ziggler gives Big E Langston the signal, and Big E steps in and lays out The Miz with a vicious clothesline and then hits him with his finisher. Ziggler, Langston and AJ stand over The Miz as AJ grabs the mic and tells Miz, “Show. Off.” AJ skips around the ring as we go to Michael Cole, JBL and Josh Matthews at ringside. They hype tonight’s main event.

Booker T is shown walking backstage as Teddy Long talks to him. Teddy says there’s a kid here tonight that he wants Booker to give an opportunity to. It’s Brad Maddox. Booker T tells Long that Maddox screwed Ryback and he’s creepy and he’s trouble. Teddy Long says, maybe so – but he’s got a great social media following and an entertaining Youtube show. Long challenges Booker, asking if he’s scared of controversy. Booker T agrees to give Maddox a match, but he’ll find out who his opponent is when he gets to the ring.

Damien Sandow vs. Sin Cara:

Sandow is out first with Cody Rhodes, followed by Sin Cara. Rey Mysterio’s music hits, but he doesn’t come out. Back and forth action to start with Sandow leaving the ring early to avoid Cara’s offense. Back in the ring, Sin Cara in control. Sin Cara goes outside to the apron and Cody Rhodes pulls him off and Cara hits his face on the apron. Back in the ring, Sandow now in control, working Cara over with a bodyslam, suplex and then a chinlock. Sandow goes for the Elbow of Disdain but nobody’s home. Sunset flip by Sin Cara and he gets a 2 count. Clothesline by Sandow and now he’s in control. While Sandow is outside of the ring talking to Cody, Sin Cara does a dive between the ropes and takes them both out. Back in the ring, Sin Cara gets the crowd worked up and notices The Shield coming down from the audience. The Shield jumps the guard rail and Roman Reigns throws a Rey Mysterio mask into the ring, which explains why he wasn’t in Cara’s corner. While Sin Cara is distracted, Sandow hits Cara with his Terminus straight-jacket neckbreaker for the pin.

Winner: Damien Sandow

After the match, The Shield assaults Sin Cara 3-on-1. The crowd chants “Feed Me More” as the Shield works on Sin Cara’s knee. Rollins goes off the top rope and takes out Sin Cara’s knee, as he screams in pain.

Tribute to the Troops promo with Flo Rida & Miss Piggy.

Santino Marella vs. Tensai

Santino gives his cobra sock toy to a child at ringside. A clip is shown from RAW with Albert falling down like the Shockmaster and JBL even calls him the Shockmaster. The match begins and the crowd is chanting “Albert” at Tensai. Tensai is fired up and unloading on Santino, hitting a series of power moves and screaming at him. Tensai asks Santino, “Fat Albert, huh??” as he strikes him in the face. Santino makes a comeback and finally bodyslams Tensai after several failed attempts during the match. Santino takes out the Cobra and goes for it – but Tensai blocks it and locks in the sleeper hold. Santino breaks the sleeper, hits the Cobra but hurts his hand. Tensai knocks him down and goes for the running back body splash, but Santino moves out of the way. Santino goes for the cover and gets the quick pin.

Winner: Santino Marella

Santino runs away and celebrates. Michael Cole notes on commentary that Tensai’s career is “sputtering.”

Sin Cara injury update: Sin Cara suffered “serious damage” to his knee at the hands of The Shield.

Replay from RAW of Ric Flair presenting the Superstar of the Year Slammy, getting beat down by the Shield and then getting saved by Ryback and Team Hell No.

Backstage, Kofi hanging with Team Hell No. Kane tells Kofi that The Shield is dangerous and they need Kofi to have eyes in the back of his head tonight in case the Shield tries to interrupt their match against Wade Barrett and two unnamed partners. Daniel Bryan is pissed off because he didn’t get a Slammy. Kofi Kingston shows off his Slammy and says Bryan should be happy he got to hang out with Ric Flair last night.

Wade Barrett & Prime Time Players vs. Kofi Kingston & Team Hell No

Michael Cole says Rey Mysterio was indeed attacked by The Shield before SmackDown went on the air and he sustained a “severe neck injury.” Solid 8-minute match, with the finish coming after Kane hit the chokeslam on Darren Young for the pin.

Winners: Kofi Kingston & Team Hell No

Backstage, Sheamus is telling John Cena a joke in the locker room. Cena says tonight, he’s worried about Big E Langston, who might be the strongest WWE superstar he’s ever come across. Sheamus asks Cena what’s the deal with AJ Lee. Sheamus ignores the camera filming them and says he’s the only one that’s going to hear what Cena says. Cena whispers into Sheamus’ ear for about a minute as Sheamus makes goofy facial expressions, ranging from excited to scared to disgusted to shocked. Sheamus asks, “Really?” Cena says no and walks away.

CM Punk’s music hits and out comes the WWE Champion on crutches with Paul Heyman. 394 days. The longest WWE title reign of the modern era. He knows in 20 years, people look back fondly on his historic reign, but today’s fans didn’t have the decency to vote for him for Superstar of the Year. Instead – they voted for John Cena. Punk says Cena gave “his” Slammy to Ric Flair. He doesn’t care that the fans cheer Flair, he likes when these washed up legends come back for those fat paychecks to pay their alimony and their child support bills. As great as Flair’s career was, he lost more title matches than he won and he never had a 400 day title reign like he’s enjoying. CM Punk insults the Pittsburgh Penguins NHL hockey team and says he doesn’t go on strike like those bunch of women have done. He’s the reason everybody at the arena paid to come to SmackDown and he’s going to remain WWE Champion well into 2013.

“Feed Me More” blasts over the sound system and out walks Ryback. Ryback paces around the ring as CM Punk hops around avoiding him. Ryback says he has his sights set on the first RAW of 2013 (1/7), when he plans to become WWE Champion.

Antonio Cesaro’s music hits and out comes the United States Champion for a RAW rematch.

Ryback vs. US Champion Antonio Cesaro:

Solid back and forth match with both men hitting their signature offensive moves. A few minutes into the match, Cesaro leaves the ring and grabs his title belt as if he’s going to walk out again like he did on RAW. Ryback catches him and presses him over his head. As he’s about to slam him, Cesaro breaks free and throws Ryback into the ring steps. Cesaro slides back into the ring as Ryback gets a 9 count before making it into the ring as well. Cesaro hits a big European uppercut off the middle rope and gets a close 2 count. Cesaro in control, wearing down Ryback with submission holds. Ryback fights back and hits Cesaro with a big spinebuster. Ryback signals for the meat hook clotheline as the crowd chants “Feed Me More.” Ryback gets Cesaro on his back, marches around and hits Shell Shocked for the pinfall victory.

Winner: Ryback

Video clip hypeing Tribute to The Troops showing The Miz flying in a Navy FA-18 fighter jet.

Backstage, Kaitlyn is walking around and AJ Lee wishes her good luck. Kaitlyn looks annoyed at AJ. AJ asks what’s wrong and Kaitlyn says, “You do this over and over again and that makes it really hard to be your friend.” AJ starts crying and as Kaitlyn gives her attention, AJ immediately stops crying. Kaitlyn starts walking away and AJ asks why she’s turning her back on a friend. Kaitlyn says she’s not a friend, she’s a lunatic. AJ snaps and attacks Kaitlyn. The ladies brawl.

WWE Diva Champion Eve vs. Kaitlyn

They show a replay of AJ’s attack from 30 seconds ago. Kaitlyn comes out to the ring looking disheveled. Eve attacks Kaitlyn immediately, looking to capitalize on Kaitlyn just getting attacked backstage. Solid match, with Eve dominating early but Kaitlyn coming on strong mid-way through. Kaitlyn goes to the top rope but Eve clings on to the referee for protection. Eve clings on to the referee so tight that he falls down and calls for disqualification.

Winner by Disqualification: Kaitlyn

Backstage, AJ is complaining to Dolph Ziggler and Big E Langston that Kaitlyn is unstable and attacked her out of nowhere. Ziggler says Kaitlyn is just jealous of her. Ziggler calls himself a future World Heavyweight champion. In walks Big Show, who tells Dolph Ziggler that he doesn’t trust him and he better not try setting him up so he can cash in his Money in the Bank contract tonight. Big E Langston looks like he’s going to get in Big Show’s face, but AJ holds him back. Big Show says if Ziggler pulls anything, he’ll knock Ziggler so far into the future that his MITB contract will have expired by then.

A video is shown from RAW replaying Dolph Ziggler’s failed attempt to cash in his Money in the Bank contract against Big Show.

Brad Maddox comes out with a microphone and says his name 5 times, saying that after tonight, nobody will ever forget his name. He’s going to win his contract tonight and will finally achieve his dream of becoming a WWE superstar. His opponent tonight – Brodus Clay.

Brad Maddox vs. Brodus Clay

After the match, as Clay is celebrating, The Shield runs down and beats down Brodus Clay with another 3-on-1 attack.

Dolph Ziggler (with AJ & Big E Langston) & Big Show vs. John Cena & Sheamus

It’s announced that Santa Clause will host Monday’s Christmas Eve edition of RAW. John Cena and Dolph Ziggler start off, with Ziggler showing off but Cena punching him in the face sending him to the mat. Ziggler tags in Big Show. Show takes control and dominates Cena, stepping on his body several times. Cena tries getting up but Big Show headbutts him. Big Show taunts Sheamus and tags Ziggler back in. Ziggler drops 7 elbows on Cena, blows AJ a kiss and then drops the final elbow. He gets a 2 count. for a 2 count. Ziggler nails Cena with neckbreaker and then locks in a headlock.

Cena backdrops Ziggler but can’t make it to Sheamus, as Big Show gets tagged in and cuts him off before he can make the tag. Fast tags by Ziggler and Big Show as they keep Cena isolated. Sheamus finally gets tagged in and cleans house. Sheamus goes for the Cloverleaf but Ziggler kicks him out of the ring. Show runs over Sheamus with a clothesline on the floor. Show brings Sheamus back in the ring and hits a big chop to the chest. Show with shots to the gut now. Sheamus fights back again but Show drops him again. Sheamus finally fights to his feet but Show knocks him down with a shoulder. Ziggler comes in for a 2 count. Back and forth action until Ziggler hits the leg drop for a 2 count. Show comes back in and keeps control of Sheamus. Show goes for a chokeslam but Sheamus counters and turns it into a DDT. Cena comes in and unloads on Ziggler.As Big Show and Sheamus fight outside the ring, Dolph Ziggler hits the Zig Zag on Cena and goes for the pin. Ziggler gets 2 and then argus with the ref. As she’s arguing, John Cena hits the Attitude Adjustment on Dolph Ziggler and this one could be over. In comes Big E Langston, who runs into Cena with a body tackle as the referee calls for disqualification. Langston hits his finisher as AJ Lee and Ziggler come into the ring and Cena still laying on the mat. Ziggler and AJ Lee make out. The show goes off the air with the heels standing over Cena.