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Mysterio Working Through Injury, Current Feud Slated For Mania

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Rey Mysterio is presently working through a rotator cuff injury. The injury occurred during SmackDown’s most recent overseas tour and company officials have been limiting his in-ring work at television and pay-per-view events, as well as house shows. He’s contained in tag matches when he does work non-televised events.

Meanwhile, Mysterio handpicked Cody Rhodes to work his current storyline with. Current plans call for the two to face off at WrestleMania XXVII.

Mysterio is said to be hopeful that he can avoid surgery through rehabilitation.

(source: prowrestling.net)

JR Blog: Royal Rumble Thoughts, Austin Hosting Tough Enough

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WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog, which you can read in its entirety at JRsBarBQ.com In this update, JR had plenty to say about Sunday’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view as well as the announcement that Steve Austin will be hosting the new season of WWE Tough Enough. Here are some highlights of what he said about:

Steve Austin Hosting Tough Enough: “I learned that Steve Austin is excited about hosting Tough Enough and as we all are awaiting to see who his trainers are going to be. Austin should be highly entertaining in this natural, free flowing environment.”

Morrison’s Wall Grab: “John Morrison’s leap of faith to the security wall and show of athleticism will be on many future Royal Rumble highlight packages. I thought Morrison might last a little longer in the RR match but that one interval served Morrison well.”

Dolph Ziggler’s Performance: “Dolph Ziggler reminds me somewhat of the great Pat Patterson of many years gone by not to mention that the athletic Ziggler has some Mr. Perfect traits as well. Ziggler can become very, very good in time especially when he becomes more comfortable on the mic. However with heat seeking missile Vickie Guerrero aligned with Dolph, Ziggler’s need to talk isn’t a priority….yet.”

Booker T & Kevin Nash’s Returns: “Great ovations from where I was sitting at home in my old La-Z-Boy for both Booker T and Kevin Nash. Good to see both men looking physically fit and the Boston crowd ate up both stars surprise appearances. I have no idea if their Royal Rumble appearances were one offs or if they will be hanging around WWE at least on a part time basis. Both have skills that they can add to the mix even if they don’t step back into a wrestling ring.”

CM Punk’s Performance: “CM Punk had a MVP like performance Sunday night and impressed me on numerous exchanges both athletically and with his facial expressions. Looks like Punk vs. Orton is going to be on the WM27 menu unless I’m wrong and, BTW, that happens frequently. Bottom line….good night for Punk.”

Booker T Signs Book Deal, Scheduled For 2012 Release

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Book publisher Medallion Press issued a press release today  announcing that former WWE and WCW World champion Booker T has signed a book deal to release an autobiography next year. Here it is:

CAN YOU DIG IT, SUCKA?

St. Charles, Illinois—January 31, 2011—Hot on the heels of an appearance on WWE’s Royal Rumble 2011, fan favorite Booker T. has signed a deal to publish an autobiography detailing his tough road from rags to riches. Book publisher Medallion Press, Inc., set to release The Road Warriors: Danger, Death, and the Rush of Wrestling by Joe “Animal” Laurinaitis with Andrew William Wright (March 2011), announced today that Booker T. Huffman—who has held 35 major titles within WWE, WCW, and TNA and is one of the most decorated champions in the history of professional wrestling—has decided it’s time his story be told.

Scheduled to release September 2012, Booker’s raw and honest autobiography From Prison to Promise, also with Andrew William Wright, will detail Huffman’s struggles with family and crime in urban Houston before becoming one of the world’s most recognized and successful athletes.

The youngest of eight children, Booker was born just outside Shreveport, Louisiana, on March 1, 1965. Booker’s father passed away just 10 months later. His mother, knowing her children needed a better environment in which to be raised, packed everything up and moved to Houston, Texas.

“My mother worked hard to provide for us, and I can say without question that although I may have had many wants, I never had any needs,” said Huffman. “Sure, we might’ve been on food stamps, but I always had a warm coat, shoes on my feet, and food on the table.” Then in 1978, when Booker was only 13 years old, his mother passed away at the age of 49, leaving the Huffman siblings to navigate life on their own.

Without parental guidance, Booker’s life spiraled out of control. Gang life eventually consumed him, and he was sentenced to five years in prison for armed robbery on February 14, 1987. It was there, behind bars in Navasota, Texas, that Booker made himself a promise to rise above a life of crime and hopelessness to accomplish greater things, things he would have once thought impossible.

And that’s exactly what Huffman did. Now, for the first time, his inspiring true story will be released to the public for everyone to read and learn from.

“I’m at that point in my life where I feel maybe someone else can benefit from hearing what I’ve been through,” Booker said. “You know, whether their parents passed away at an early age, or they got into some serious trouble with the law, there’s no doubt in my mind people will not only relate to what I went through, but maybe I can even help keep some of them from going down the same path.”

From anonymity to stardom, from rags to riches, this story will remind you that anything is possible when you choose to make a positive impact.

From Prison to Promise by Booker T. Huffman with Andrew William Wright (Medallion Press, September 2012, Hardcover, ISBN 9781605424682, $24.95 U.S./$26.95 CAN) <> About Medallion Press, Inc.:
Medallion Press, Inc. is a genre fiction and nonfiction publisher dedicated to creating the highest quality product, both inside and out.

WWE Confirms Stone Cold Steve Austin Hosting Tough Enough

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World Wrestling Entertainment made the following announcement over the weekend:

NEW YORK CITY – USA Network and WWE announced that WWE Hall of Famer “Stone Cold” Steve Austin will host USA Network’s upcoming reality series “WWE Tough Enough.” The non-scripted series will premiere Monday, April 4 at 11/10 CT, immediately following USA’s ratings juggernaut WWE Monday Night Raw, and move to its regularly scheduled slot in primetime, Mondays at 8/7 CT, starting on April 11.

“Stone Cold” Steve Austin has captivated audiences around the world with his magnetic presence and bold, yet charming nature. Austin has done it all in sports-entertainment, winning 17 championships, including the WWE Championship six times. He has an immense and incredibly devoted fan base, and is considered one of the most popular WWE Superstars of all time. Austin was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2009.

“I am very excited about the opportunity to work with my old friends at WWE on ‘WWE Tough Enough.’ Sports-entertainment has always been an important part of my life, and I look forward to finding the next generation of WWE Superstars,” said Austin.

“Stone Cold” will share his intimate knowledge, experience and flair for the stage as one of the most popular figures in WWE history to a group of individuals looking for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become the next WWE Superstar or Diva. Austin will mentor the diverse group of men and women who will live, train, eat and sleep under one roof in a house in Simi Valley, Calif. Each week, the contestants will battle it out in a series of unique challenges designed to test for such characteristics as showmanship, creativity, athleticism and desire, just to name a few. Viewers will witness the trials and tribulations of what it takes to be one of the best in the world’s greatest sports-entertainment organization. The grand prize winner will be awarded a contract with WWE.

Since leaving the world of sports-entertainment, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin has made a name for himself in Hollywood, with roles in such blockbuster hits as The Expendables, staring Sylvester Stallone and The Longest Yard, starring Adam Sandler and Chris Rock. Other film credits include Damage, The Condemned and Hunt to Kill. In addition to film, Austin is a household name from his work on hit television shows such as NBC’s Chuck and CBS’ Nash Bridges.

Shed Media US, noted for its strong characters and memorable casting in the non-scripted arena, will produce “WWE Tough Enough.” The company’s previous reality credits include The Real Housewives of New York City, Who Do You Think You Are and World’s Strictest Parents. Producing for Shed Media US are Alex Demyanenko and Eric Van Wagenen.

Sound Off 144: Ric Flair and Charlie Sheen Should Party Together

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solomonster
Solomonster Sounds Off

DOWNLOAD THE PODCAST HERE:
Solomonster Sounds Off (Episode 144)

*right-click, “Save As”, or stream it!

Est. Runtime: 1 hour, 25 minutes

Solomonster lost his shit during Raw on Monday night and he’ll explain why — plus making a prediction for the Royal Rumble, news on Stone Cold’s return to WWE, what Ric Flair and Charlie Sheen have in common, and more Facebook mailbag questions! Settle in before the Rumble and listen to the Sound Off!

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

Wanna subscribe to the Sound Off via iTunes? CLICK HERE!

Visit The Solomonster on Twitter @ twitter.com/solomonster

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Three WWE Stars Excluded From Rumble, Evan Bourne Update

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— Three WWE Superstars that were advertised on WWE.com for last night’s 40-Man Royal Rumble Match were ultimately excluded: Darren Young, David Hart Smith and Primo.

Nine additional slots were opened as a result (there were six open slots before the pay-per-view). The slots were filled by Kevin Nash (referred to as Diesel), Booker T, Alex Riley, Chavo Guerrero, Dolph Ziggler, Hornswoggle, Randy Orton, The Great Khali and Tyler Reks.

— Evan Bourne said on Twitter yesterday that he is still rehabbing his injured shoulder. He is expected to return to the ring by WrestleMania.

— Former WWE star MVP is rumored to appear at New Japan Pro Wrestling’s show on Feb. 20.

Wrestlers Comment On Sunday’s Royal Rumble PPV

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Here’s what several past and present WWE superstars are saying about Sunday’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view:

Shawn Michaels on Kevin Nash: “Hey I know that guy!!! First guy to get a chant!!!”

Chris Jericho on Kevin Nash: “Great seeing Deisel back in the WWE. Perfect use of him for a “nice surprise””

Chris Jericho on John Morrison: “Morrisons barrier jump spot was incredible! An all-time Rumble highlight”

DDP on the Rumble: “Havent watched WWE in a long time. Just watched Edge and Dolph have a Great match at The Rumble… Looking forward to Miz ORTON”

Eve Torres on winning the Divas Title: “What good is an opportunity if you are not ready for it? Stay ready, keep beliEVEing, your moment may be today! What an unpredictable, crazy, amazing night! Thank you BeliEVErs. We did it!”

Kofi Kingston: “Wow, what a night. The crowd was sick tonight! Best rumble Ive been a part of thus far. The road to wrestlemania has officially begun!”

Val Venis on Albert Del Rio: “I am very happy for Del Rio. He is truly a great performer. Vince is hearing Cha Ching with Del Rio. Or at least he should be hearing that.”

Carlito on Del Rio: “I guess I dont have special powers! Congrats to del rio and the wwe for changing things up!”

Shane Helms on Del Rio: “Del Rio is 1/3 JBL, 1/3 Ricky Ricardo, and 1/3 Ric Flair. Hope to see him go far.”

Jim Ross on Booker T & Kevin Nash: “Thought Booker & Nash both physically looked super 2nite. I hope they stick around WWE. TBD, I suppose.”

List Of Which Superstars Had The Most Rumble Eliminations

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CM Punk and John Cena tied for the most eliminations in last night’s Royal Rumble main event with 7 each. Nexus as a group had 10 total eliminations. The following is a list of number of eliminations from last night, with assists included:

* CM Punk – 7
* John Cena – 7
* Michael McGillicutty – 4
* Randy Orton – 3
* Husky Harris – 3
* Daniel Bryan – 2
* Mark Henry – 2
* Rey Mysterio – 2
* Wade Barrett – 2
* Alberto Del Rio – 2
* Mason Ryan – 2
* Big Show – 2
* David Otunga – 2
* Ted DiBiase Jr. – 1
* The Great Khali – 1
* Sheamus – 1
* Kofi Kingston – 1
* Ezekiel Jackson – 1
* Kane – 1

The Miz, who was not an entrant in the match, had one elimination – John Cena.

List Of Time Spent In The Royal Rumble For All 40 Participants

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Here are the times that WWE Superstars lasted in the Royal Rumble match last night. CM Punk lasted the longest at 35 minutes and 22 seconds. R-Truth only lasted 30 seconds. The returning Kevin Nash lasted 2 minutes and 44 seconds while Booker T lasted 1 minute and 8 seconds. The winner Alberto Del Rio was in the match for 12 minutes and 33 seconds.

* CM Punk – 35:22
* John Cena – 33:18
* Wade Barrett – 22:24
* Kofi Kingston – 21:05
* Daniel Bryan – 20:56
* Rey Mysterio Jr. – 19:08
* Sheamus – 18:18
* Husky Harris – 15:59
* Michael McGillicutty – 15:07
* John Morrison – 13:22
* Santino Marella – 12:55
* Alberto Del Rio – 12:33
* Ted Dibiase Jr. – 12:16
* David Otunga – 11:57
* Hornswoggle – 9:39
* Randy Orton – 8:20
* Ezekiel Jackson – 7:14
* Mark Henry – 7:03
* Yoshi Tatsu – 5:35
* Dolph Ziggler – 5:02
* Jack Swagger – 4:51
* Drew McIntyre – 4:46
* Mason Ryan – 4:30
* William Regal – 4:10
* The Big Show – 3:31
* Alex Riley – 3:16
* Diesel – 2:44
* Chavo Guerrero – 2:01
* Chris Masters – 1:57
* Kane – 1:36
* JTG – 1:48
* The Great Khali – 1:16
* Booker T – 1:08
* Justin Gabriel – 0:58
* Heath Slater – 0:57
* Tyson Kidd – 0:52
* Zack Ryder – 0:43
* Vladimir Kozlov – 0:40
* Tyler Reks – 0:34
* R-Truth – 0:30

(Source: PWInsider.com)

Complete List Of 2011 Royal Rumble Entrants & Eliminations

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Below is the full list of 2011 WWE Royal Rumble entrants and eliminations from tonight’s pay-per-view:

Royal Rumble Entrants:

1. CM Punk
2. Daniel Bryan
3. Justin Gabriel
4. Zack Ryder
5. William Regal
6. Ted DiBiase
7. John Morrison
8. Yoshi Tatsu
9. Husky Harris
10. Chavo Guerrero
11. Mark Henry
12. JTG
13. Michael McGillicutty
14. Chris Masters
15. David Otunga
16. Tyler Reks
17. Kozlov
18. R-Truth
19. Great Khali
20. Mason Ryan
21. Booker T
22. John Cena
23. Hornswoggle
24. Tyson Kidd
25. Heath Slater
26. Kofi Kingston
27. Jack Swagger
28. Sheamus
29. Rey Mysterio
30. Wade Barrett
31. Dolph Ziggler
32. Kevin Nash (Diesel)
33. Drew McIntyre
34. Alex Riley
35. Big Show
36. Ezekiel Jackson
37. Santino
38. Alberto Del Rio
39. Randy Orton
40. Kane

Royal Rumble Eliminations:

1. Gabriel (via Bryan at 2:35)
2. Ryder (via Bryan at 3:45)
3. Regal (via DiBiase at 8:52)
4. Chavo (via Henry at 15:05)
5. Yoshi (via Henry at 15:34)
6. JTG (via McG at 18:00)
7. DiBiase (via Harris & McG at 18:51)
8. Bryan (via Harris at 20:56)
9. Masters (via Punk at 21:11)
10. Morrison (via Nexus at 21:25)
11. Henry (via Nexus at 21:50)
12. Reks (via Nexus at 22:50)
13. Kozlov (via Punk at 24:19)
14. R-Truth (via Punk at 26:10)
15. Husky (via Khali at 27:23)
16. Khali (via Mason at 28:22)
17. Booker (via Mason at 31:00)
18. Ryan (via Cena at 32:35)
19. Otunga (via Cena at 32:40)
20. McGillicutty (via Cena at 32:41)
21. Punk (via Cena at 35:20)
22. Kidd (via Cena at 37:05)
23. Slater (via Cena at 38:42)
24. Hornswoggle (via Sheamus at 43:53)
25. Swagger (via Rey at 45:35)
26. Diesel (via Barrett at 52:22)
27. Ziggler (via Show at 54:52)
28. McIntyre (via Show at 55:18)
29. Show (via Jackson at 55:33)
30. Riley (via ??? at ???)
31. Kingston (via Orton at 60:42)
32. Sheamus (via Orton at 60:48)
33. Jackson (via Kane at 62:35)
34. Kane (via Rey at 63:29)
35. Rey (via Barrett at 63:37)
36. Cena (via Miz at 66:30)
37. Orton (via Barrett at 68:37)
38. Barrett (via Del Rio at 68:39)
39. Santino (via Del Rio at 69:48)

WWE Signs Mistico, Ex-WWE Star Denies Rumble Return Rumors

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— According to the latest issue of Super Luchas magazine in Mexico, CMLL star Mistico has signed a contract with World Wrestling Entertainment.

Mistico is pictured on the magazine’s cover and the headline indicates Mistico saying that he has signed with WWE.

Mistico took part in a tryout before company officials last year and impressed.

Since 2006, Místico has been the top babyface in CMLL and the biggest box office draw in Mexico.

— Former WWE talent Kip James (a/k/a Billy Gunn) denied rumors of a possible appearance at tonight’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view.

“No I will NOT be at the Royal Rumble,” James wrote on Twitter. “@DavidHerro didn’t get me booked. #ThanksPal.”

Kong Teases Rumble Appearance, Maryse Requests Fan Videos

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— Awesome Kong teased an appearance at tonight’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view as she noted the following on Twitter this afternoon.

“My stomach is RUMBLE-ing. Craving sushi so I may SMACK DOWN on some RAW fish.”

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office’s charge report on Kong last month for driving without a valid license, she resides in Massachusetts, near the site of tonight’s pay-per-view event.

— Maryse requested last week on Twitter ninety second tribute videos of her talking.

“I need a 90 secs video tribute of me talking, in an out of the ring, in commentary, backstages, ects….with other celebs I worked with,” she wrote. “Its a tribute to maryse s french accent…email it to me at [email protected].”

She will post the best videos on her official website and follow the creators on Twitter.

Brock Lesnar Pitched WWE Return To UFC

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Contrary to Brock Lesnar’s public dismissal last week of the long-standing rumor that he was interested in participating in this year’s WrestleMania event, the latest issue of Power Slam reports that according to multiple sources, he did attempt to persuade UFC officials to allow him to work a storyline with World Wrestling Entertainment that would culminate at the annual wrestling supershow.

The proposed deal stems from his mini-confrontation with The Undertaker following UFC 121 on October 23.

According to the magazine, Lesnar had agreed in principle to a three-appearance deal with WWE: he would have appeared on two episodes of Monday Night Raw in the weeks leading up to WrestleMania XXVI, culminating with a final appearance at the April 3 pay-per-view extravaganza in Atlanta, Georgia.

WWE officials are willing to pay Lesnar a seven-figure sum for the three appearances. However, the deal would require approval from UFC because Lesnar is under contract to the mixed martial arts organization.

UFC officials reportedly denied Lesnar’s request to return to WWE.

TNA Punishes Wrestlers For Drug Use, Flair Returns To UK Tour

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— In an apparent first, TNA Wrestling officials recently punished two wrestlers for testing positive for a substance banned on the organization’s drug testing policy. Though TNA did not acknowledge the situation publicly, the guilty wrestlers were pulled from some house shows as punishment. Both wrestlers have since returned to action and remain on the active roster.

— Ric Flair returned to TNA Wrestling’s European tour Friday in Manchester, England, accompanying Beer Money, Inc. for their match against Douglas Williams and Magnus. Flair wrestled Williams himself the following night in London, beating the Englishman via submission. Flair bled heavily during the match, so much so that the ring mat was mopped afterwards.

— Jeff Hardy is featured on the cover of the latest issue of Power Slam, which covers his ongoing drug trial and recent matches.

source: Pro Wrestling Torch

Update On Batista’s Whereabouts, The Bellas Work As Heels

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— It was reported earlier that Batista is in Thailand filming The Man with the Iron Fist, which also stars Russell Crowe, Lucy Liu, and mixed martial artist Cung Le. Wrestling Observer editor Dave Meltzer reports that the former WWE Champion is not slated to return to the United States until March.

— The Bella Twins performed as heels at last night’s WWE Supershow in Springfield, MA. The twin duo lost to Gail Kim and Maryse. Though Kim partnered with heel wrestler Maryse, she maintained her babyface persona during the match while the manager of Ted DiBiase portrayed a tweener. Maryse, however, reverted back to heel following the match by attacking Kim.

— Former WWE talent Nick Dinsmore (a/k/a Eugene) is holding a seminar in London, Kentucky on Feb. 19 from 2 to 5 p.m. It costs $50 and is limited to professional wrestlers presently licensed in the state of Kentucky with at least one year of experience. Visit www.ovwrestling.com for more information.

source: F4WOnline.com

Announced Card For Tonight’s Royal Rumble PPV

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Here is the card announced thus far for tonight’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view. Only 34 WWE Superstars have been announced for the 40-Man Royal Rumble Match.

WWE Championship Match
The Miz vs. Randy Orton

World Heavyweight Championship Match
Edge (c) vs. Dolph Ziggler

2-on-1 Handicap Match for the Divas Championship
Natalya (c) vs. Lay-Cool

40-Man Royal Rumble Match
Alberto Del Rio, Big Show, Chris Masters, CM Punk, Daniel Bryan, Darren Young, David Hart Smith, David Otunga, Drew McIntyre, Ezekiel Jackson, Heath Slater, Husky Harris, Jack Swagger, John Cena, John Morrison, JTG, Justin Gabriel, Kane, Kofi Kingston, Mark Henry, Mason Ryan, Michael McGillicutty, Primo, Rey Mysterio, R-Truth, Santino Marella, Sheamus, Ted DiBiase, Tyson Kidd, Vladimir Kozlov, Wade Barrett, William Regal, Yoshi Tatsu and Zack Ryder

News On Former Champion Returning To WWE (Contains Spoilers)

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As reported earlier, Booker T has arrived to Boston, Massachusetts for tonight’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view. He is expected to participate in the 40-Man Royal Rumble Match. His return to WWE after three years will not be a one night affair.

According to some wrestlers, Booker T is permanently returning to WWE to both wrestle and announce. Additional details, however, have not been disclosed.

The six-time world champion has had his sights set on a commentating position for a number of years. He indicated in an interview last year during Royal Rumble season that if he were to return to WWE, it would likely be as an announcer.

He said, “Going back to the WWE, I know I would have to work a full schedule pretty much 180 days a year. I don’t think that’s something I want to do at this point. A lot of people speculate, but if I was to go back to the WWE, it would probably be from a wrestling announcer standpoint, that’s something I always wanted to do. So I look forward if I ever go back to WWE, it would probably be from a wrestling announcer standpoint. TNA is better for me as far as scheduling goes, but I don’t think I’ll working that hectic schedule anymore.”

source: PWInsider.com

Update On Tonight’s Royal Rumble PPV (Contains Spoilers)

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— Multi-time champion Booker T has arrived to Boston, Massachusetts for tonight’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view. He is expected to participate in tonight’s 40-Man Royal Rumble Match.

— “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan is expected to appear at tonight’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view as he is in town for an autograph signing with fellow former WWE talent Carlito.

— Christian was flown into Boston for tonight’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view. It is presently unclear what his role at the event will be. It should be noted that he isn’t wearing his arm in a sling. He has been sidelined since September due to a torn pectoral muscle.

source: PWInsider.com

HHH’s Return Repeatedly Delayed, Reaction To COO’s Resignation

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— The latest issue of Power Slam reports that Triple H’s return to WWE programming has been postponed on multiple occasions dating back to October.

According to WWE creative team sources, his return was originally scheduled for the Bragging Rights pay-per-view on Oct. 24. It was postponed to shortly before the Survivor Series, and again to the pay-per-view itself. He was then scheduled to return at the King of the Ring edition of Monday Night Raw on Nov. 29, then the week after that. He was also tentatively scheduled for the first Raw of 2011.

The magazine adds that there has been talk of him returning at tonight’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view.

— Donna Goldsmith, Chief Operating Officer of WWE, announced this week she would be leaving the organization effective Feb. 28. Many within WWE were shocked by her resignation and it’s been speculated that it is due in part to the company’s disappointing fourth quarter earnings. Goldsmith was regarded as the second most powerful person in the company, since Linda McMahon stepped down from her position as CEO in September 2009 to launch a self-financed Senate campaign.

source: www.f4wonline.com

Nash Pulls Out Of Weekend Appearances, Edge Attends ROH Show

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— Like Booker T, Kevin Nash was also scheduled to appear at this weekend’s New Orleans Comic Con, but pulled out. A convention attendee noted that personnel announced: “Kevin Nash never made it to the building. Sorry, guys.” Many in the estimated crowd of 100 fans were said to be very disappointed.

— WWE Champion Edge, who is in Los Angeles this weekend to film retakes for his upcoming WWE Studios film, stayed at the hotel WrestleReunion convention attendees stayed at. He was spotted at yesterday’s Ring of Honor event and notably paid attention to the Kings of Wrestling vs. Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin match.

— WWE Hall of Famer Jerry “The King” Lawler wrestled longtime rival Bill Dundee tonight at TNA Wrestling’s original stomping grounds, the Nashville Fairgrounds. Dutch Mantel was the special guest referee.

sources: prowrestling.net, f4wonline.com

Nash Removed From TNA Website, Impact Delivers Strong Rating

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— Three months after Kevin Nash’s last appearance for TNA Wrestling, his profile page has been removed from the company website’s roster page.

— The January 27 episode of TNA iMPACT! scored a 1.28 cable rating, the program’s highest mark since October 14.

iMPACT! averaged 1.93 million viewers over the course of two hours, which is the third largest average audience in the program’s history

The first hour drew a 1.34 rating before dipping to a 1.23 in the second hour.

— Tommy Dreamer is now working as a producer backstage.

source: Pro Wrestling Torch

*Spoilers* On Two Names Appearing At The Royal Rumble

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Booker T and Kevin Nash are scheduled to appear as surprise entrants for tomorrow night’s 40-Man Royal Rumble Match, reports PWInsider.com.

Booker T was expected earlier based on recent talks with organization officials and his scheduled appearance at the New Orleans Comic Con this weekend being canceled. Company sources confirmed this morning he is set for the 40-Man Royal Rumble Match.

WWE sources have also confirmed that Nash is booked for the match and is scheduled to fly into Boston later today. He was in discussions with TNA Wrestling officials as late as yesterday to finalize a contract with the organization, but instead opted to return to World Wrestling Entertainment.

Meanwhile, TNA Wrestling sources have confirmed that discussions with Nash fell through. Both sides had been negotiating on and off with sources indicating at one point that a deal was finalized. An infuriated Nash then accused TNA personnel of leaking the information, which led to new rounds of negotiations. He admitted last week to a Puerto Rican newspaper that he was in talks with TNA regarding a return to the organization. The aforementioned discussions ended within the past 24 to 48 hours.

source: PWInsider.com

Latest On Booker Returning To WWE, No. 2 WWE Officer Resigns

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— It was reported yesterday that Booker T canceled his scheduled appearance at this weekend’s New Orleans Comic Con. Though it has not been confirmed that former world champion will appear at tomorrow’s Royal Rumble, many people within WWE expect him to be on hand for the event.

— Donna Goldsmith, Chief Operating Officer of World Wrestling Entertainment, announced this week she would be leaving the organizaion effective Feb. 28. The notice is available here.

Goldsmith was head of WWE Consumer Products for a number of years, which was considered the premiere division in the company for most of the past decade. She was promoted to COO and only trailed Vince McMahon in regards to power in the organization.

— Kelly Kelly was a Twitter trending topic yesterday in the United States during SmackDown.

— Today is former WWE star Hardcore Holly’s birthday. He turns 48 years old.

source: f4wonline.com

Phoenix Wants To Compete In The Rumble, Wrestlicious Update

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— Beth Phoenix revealed to SLAM! Wrestling that she wants another Royal Rumble opportunity. “The Glamazon” took part in last year’s showcase, kissing and then eliminating The Great Khali.

“There’s 10 more spots, and that means 10 more chances to go an compete in the Royal Rumble, and go and compete, to wrestle for the World heavyweight championship at WrestleMania,” she said. “I think that the odds are a little bit better this year to get another opportunity, but like all the superstars, we don’t find out until the very last minute. So, there’s always a chance. That’s the great thing about watching it on pay-per-view is that you never know what you’re going to see.”

To read the article, here.

— WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Hart said last week on The Bubba the Love Sponge Show that Wrestlicious is close to securing a television deal with MTV2.

— WWE Hall of Famer Jerry “The King” Lawler vs. Matt Riviera headlines New Millennium Wrestling’s Feb. 26 event at the Balch Springs Recreation Center in Balch Springs, Texas.

source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Steve Austin To Host Tough Enough, Superstars Rating Improves

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Entertainment Weekly is reporting that “Stone Cold” Steve Austin has been tapped to host the revival of Tough Enough on the USA Network.

The show premieres April 4, following Monday Night Raw.

— The Jan. 27 episode of WWE Superstars on WGN America scored a 0.64 cable rating with 755,000 viewers. Viewership was up from last week’s episode, which was a 0.49 cable rating with 565,000 viewers.

The midnight replay scored a 0.17 cable rating with 120,000 viewers.

— The WrestleReunion website noted that Edge was at today’s convention at the Los Angeles Airport Hilton. He’s not there as a scheduled guest, but was visiting former colleague Shane Helms.

source: PWInsider.com