A number of United States servicemen were in attendence at Sunday’s WWE Vengeance pay-per-view – visiting from the nearby Fort Hood military base.
John Cena debuted a new “Rise Above Hate” t-shirt and debuted a new pair of camouflage shorts, a departure from his signature “jorts” jean shorts ring gear.
The WWE website has a gallery of pictures from Vengeance, including pictures of his new “Rise Above Hate” t-shirt and camouflage shorts, which you can view here.
Cena announced on Twitter a few months ago that he is planning to change his often-mocked ring gear.
At this point, its unknown whether Cena’s camo shorts are a permanent change – or just a tribute to the Fort Hood soldiers who were in attendance.
Cena’ new “Rise Above Hate” t-shirt is available at the WWE Shop website. Also available are “Rise Above Hate” sweatbands, baseball caps and pendants.
Prior to Sunday’s WWE Vengeance pay-per-view event, former co-workers Michael Cole and Jim Ross threw a few verbal jabs back and forth on Twitter.
Michael Cole threw the first punch – tweeting the following about JR:
“Thrilled to report @JRsBBQ will not be part of #Vengeance tonight. Management felt he’d be too busy crying about OU’s loss yesterday.”
A fan responded to Cole’s tweet, coming to the defense of Jim Ross. “@MichaelCole shut up man ur just jealous bc @JRsBBQ is more popular than u! @JoeyStyles”.
Joey Styles responded, asking to be left out of Cole and JR’s drama:
“Please leave me out of JR vs. Cole.”
Jim Ross then followed up with a zinger of his own:
“Leave me out of JR/Cole, too..and 3 man announce train wreck.”
WWE has posted job listings for several high-level positions in the company, including the Vice President of Creative Development, a Senior Vice President of Production and a Live Event Producer. Check out these openings from WWE-Careers.com:
Vice President, Creative Development: “The VP/Head Producer will be an integral member of the creative team to influence and evolve the WWE brand through story, characters and pop culture. S/he must be someone who can motivate the creative development team and be an outstanding leader and communicator. This person must be highly organized, detail oriented and work well in a fast paced, ever changing high energy environment. S/he will be constantly striving to excite the audience with plotlines of current WWE superstars as well as introducing and creating story arcs for new talent.” (Apply Here)
Senior Vice President, Production: “The Senior Vice President, Production creatively administers the production of all WWE Network original programming. This executive supervises current production on all WWE Channel programming including in-ring shows, radio shows, and reality programming. This executive also works internally with a variety of departments to facilitate the scheduling, promotion, and broadcasting of all programming.” (Apply Here)
Live Event Producer: “The Live Event Producer will be responsible for the entire production of the live event; from carrying storyline throughout the show, adding creative and entertaining elements, directing the production manager regarding lighting cues and music, to meeting with the producers regarding match outcomes. This position needs to be someone with on-the-road and live event experience and needs to have a bigger picture mentality. The Live Event Producer needs to have strong leadership and organizational skills combined with a creative mindset. The Live Event Producer needs to quickly develop an understanding of WWE creative, WWE television production, and have relevant experience in live event production.” (Apply Here)
— As reported in recent weeks, TNA Wrestling is planning to launch an international brand by the end of the year that is being spearheaded by Jeff Jarrett. The new brand will be a weekly series in India that won’t be using the TNA brand name. Though no talent has been hired, a source close to former WWE performer Cliff Compton (a/k/a Domino) say he’s considered a lock to be hired following strong showings in Nigeria and Ohio Valley Wrestling. Compton has said that when he returns to prominence, he’ll be doing a new character and not a take-off of his 1950s greaser persona in WWE, Domino.
— Rosita has launched an official website under her real name at TheaTrinidad.com. The website has features on the TNA Knockout outside the ring.
— Velvet Sky and Angelina Love have been added to The Big Event, which takes place November 12 at the Courtyard Marriott LaGuardia Airport 9010 Ditmars Blvd East Elmhurst, New York. Visit www.sportsfanpromotions.com for more information.
We open the show with a video package that highlights the main feuds heading into tonight’s show.
The pyro hits and Michael Cole welcomes us to the PPV. The San Antonio crowd looks like they’re ready to kick things off. They throw it right to Justin Roberts, who announces this match will be for the Tag Team Championships, but he’s interrupted by Vickie Guerrero. She introduced ‘your next WWE Tag Team Champions.’
WWE Tag Team Championship Match: Evan Bourne and Kofi Kingston (c) vs. Dolph Ziggler and Jack Swagger
After Swagger makes his way to the ring, Vickie introduces Dolph Ziggler, who comes out wearing some spiffy looking American flag trunks.
The Champions, Kofi Kingston and Evan Bourne are out next, and they make their way down to the ring to a good reaction from the crowd.”
Kofi and Ziggler look to start things out for their respective teams. The bell rings and we get a quick lock up. Kofi goes behind Ziggler, but Ziggler turns it around and takes Kofi to the mat. Kofi fights up and the two trade holds for a bit before Ziggler takes Kofi over with a side head lock. Kofi is able to fight up to his feet and pushes Ziggler away, but he goes right down to a shoulderblock. Kofi responds with a big back elbow and a monkey flip out of the corner that sends Ziggler flying.
Kofi jumps off the middle rope toward Swagger but he’s caught and slammed to the mat instead. Ziggler tags in and he and Kofi trade blows in the middle of the ring before Ziggler throws a great dropkick that’s good for a two count of his own. Ziggler locks in a modified rings of Saturn, but Kofi is able to fight up to his feet and out of the hold, only to be slammed back down to the mat by his hair. Ziggler tags out to Swagger who comes in and wrenches on Kingston’s arm. Swagger charges Kingston and hits a big shoulderblock before locking in a rear chin lock.
Kofi fights up to his feet and out of the hold and he’s able to make the tag to Bourne. Bourne comes in and hits an immediate ‘rana on Swagger before tagging both Swagger and Ziggler with big kicks. Bourne heads up to the top, avoids interference from Ziggler by jumping over Swagger and dropkicks Swagger into Ziggler. Bourne goes back up top and goes for the shooting star press, but Swagger gets his knees up and Bourne crashes and burns. Swagger tags out to Ziggler who comes in and makes the pin but it’s broken up by Kofi.
Ziggler works over Bourne’s arm and neck in a seated hold, but Bourne is able to fight up to his feet. Bourne struggles to make it to his corner but Ziggler puts him back down. Both men trade roll ups before Ziggler pops up with a huge clothesline to Bourne for another near fall. Ziggler tags out to Swagger who comes in and stomps away at Bourne. Swagger runs into the corner and launches himself off the middle rope with a Vader bomb, but Bourne still won’t stay down for three.
Swagger locks in a front face lock and Bourne struggles to make it to his corner but Swagger stops him cold. Bourne rolls up Swagger, but then Swagger goes for the ankle lock. Bourne is able to roll through and send Swagger flying through the ropes to the outside. Swagger prevents the tag by pulling Kofi from the apron. Swagger makes it back in the ring and tags out to Ziggler who comes in and grinds his boot into Bourne’s gut while Kofi is livid, distracting the ref. Ziggler hits a big standing neckbreaker before tagging back out to Swagger.
Swagger comes in and simply stands on Bourne’s chest before picking him up and slamming him back down to the mat. Swagger goes for the Vader bomb again but Bourne gets his knees up and Swagger’s chin drops right onto Bourne’s knees. Both men make the tag and Kingston comes in taking out Ziggler with a series of clotheslines. Kingston tries for the SOS but he’s thrown off. Kingston catches Ziggler with a kick in the corner, a kick to the chest on the apron, and a GIANT cross body block from the top rope for a two count. Kofi hits the boom drop in the middle of the ring.
Ziggler ducks Trouble in Paradise, but Kingston connects with the double knees. Swagger tries to break it up, but hits Ziggler instead. Swagger locks in the ankle lock in Kingston but it’s broken up by Bourne. Kingston hits the TIP on Ziggler and tags out to Bourne, who comes in with a big shooting star press. Bourne pins Ziggler and this one is over.
Winners and STILL WWE Tag Team Champions: Air Boom
Ryder makes his way to the ring to a modest reception, and it looks like there will be no rest for Dolph as the bell rings and we’re ready to begin.
United States Championship Match: Dolph Ziggler (c) vs. Zack Ryder
Ryder beats on Ziggler in the corner before sending him into the ropes and hitting a big clothesline. Ryder sends Ziggler into the corner hard and goes for the pin but he only gets a two count. Ziggler is able to score a boot to the gut and he follows up with a big neckbreaker. The crowd is solidly behind Ryder. Ryder connects with another big clothesline and Ziggler flees to the outside. Ziggler begins crawling up to the entrance, but Air Boom, who are still waiting outside of the ring, are kind enough to send Ziggler back into the ring, which the referee ejects them for doing.
Ryder takes Ziggler back down to the mat repeatedly, not letting him catch a breath, but Ryder goes for some kind of splash and Ziggler moves, sending Ryder crashing into the ropes. Ziggler takes the advantage and stomps away at Ryder’s face. Ziggler hits a big elbow drop, which is good for a near fall for the champ. Ziggler mounts Ryder and locks in a modified rear chin lock, wrenching away at Ryder’s neck.
Ziggler releases the hold before hitting another vicious elbow drop to Ryder’s back. Ziggler charges Ryder in the corner and hits a giant splash, sending Ryder crumpling to the mat. Ryder crawls to another corner and avoids a second splash. Ryder goes for a face wash kick in the corner, but Ziggler moves and Ryder ends up crotching himself on the bottom rope. Ziggler is able to connect with something (I think it might have been the Zig Zag but I missed it) and goes for the pin but Ryder kicks out at two. Ziggler kicks away at Ryder in the corner, but when he charges in he’s met with Ryder’s knees. Ryder goes for, and connects with the face wash kick in the corner but he’s pulled down from behind by Swagger. Ziggler goes for the Zig Zag, but Ryder holds on to the ropes to avoid it. Ryder kicks Swagger away, but turns right around into a superkick from Ziggler. Ziggler goes for the pin and this one is over.
Winner and STILL WWE US Champion: Dolph Ziggler
CM Punk is shown backstage showing his tattoos off to Ted Dibiase Jr. Triple H walks in and hopes Punk can understand his immigration issues this past week. Punk says he understands someone else is pulling the strings. Punk and Hunter banter back and forth for a little bit about a ‘rah-rah’ speech, before Punk says tonight he wants to show Miz and Truth all about an ‘unsafe working environment’.
Divas Championship: Beth Phoenix (c) vs. Eve
Beth Phoenix makes her way down to the ring, and Cole says there was an incident involving the Diva’s earlier today. It cuts to Kelly Kelly being interviewed for WWE.com about Eve’s chances tonight. Natalya interrupts, choking Kelly while the Bella’s and Phoenix look on. She’s pulled off by Eve who comes to Kelly’s rescue before it’s all broken up by officials.
Eve is out next, and she gets a little bit of a reaction from the crowd. Apparently, the new GM Johnny Ace has banned both Natalya and Kelly Kelly from ringside due to the confrontation earlier today.
The bell rings and the women are quick to lock up. Beth takes Eve into the corner and sits her on the top turnbuckle, but Eve is able to fight back, coming off the top and rolling Beth up in a sunset flip for a two count. Beth sends Eve into the ropes and takes her down to the mat hard. Beth tries to wear down Eve, but Eve is quick to get back to her feet and kick away at Beth’s legs. Beth hits Eve with a couple of stiff forearms, but she’s caught off guard by an enzugiri from Eve.
Eve uses Beth’s outfit to tie her up in the ropes and kick away at her backside. Phoenix is able to get free and she goes to the outside. Eve comes toward Phoenix but Beth sweeps her feet out from under her. Beth gets Eve in gorilla press position and walks her over to the barricade, sending her crashing into it chest first. Beth slams Eve into the ring apron before dragging her into the ring for another two count. Beth locks in a modified rear chin lock but Eve won’t quit.
Eve starts to fight out of it, but Beth shoulders her, and drops down to her knees, causing pain to Eve’s midsection. Beth locks in a body scissors, all the while slapping at Eve’s head and screaming for her to cry. Eve is able to fight out of the hold and she mounts Beth, raining down punches. Both women get up to their feet and Eve hits Beth with a couple of big kicks before taking her down with a clothesline and hitting a pretty cool standing flipping senton for another two count. Beth reverses an Irish whip, but then runs right into a back elbow from Eve. Eve wraps her legs around Beth’s shoulders and locks in a super-weird looking submission hold focusing on Beth’s neck and shoulders.
Beth is able to get to the ropes to force Eve to break the hold. Beth goes out to the apron and Eve, who’s standing on the inside, takes her to the corner to slam her head into the turnbuckle. Beth is able to surprise Eve by snapping her arm on the top ring rope. Beth comes back in and tries for the glam slam, but Eve reverses and sends Beth into the ropes. Eve rolls up Beth for two. Eve goes to the corner and hits Beth with a big kick to the side of the head. Eve goes to the top and tries for a moonsault but Beth moves and Eve crashes to the mat. Beth connects with the glam slam, and get the three count.
Winner and STILL WWE Divas Champion: Beth Phoenix
Following the match, Phoenix sits over Eve and strokes her hair. Beth heads to the back and says she’ll never lose her title.
We cut to backstage where Matt Striker is standing with the Big Show. Striker reminds Show that Henry put him on the shelf, and asks if She is prepared. Show says Henry though he took everything away from him, Show says it took Henry 3 seconds to win his title. It’ll take that same three seconds for Henry to lose his title, and the Hall of Pain will topple like a house of cards. Show says Vengeance will be his, and so will the World Heavyweight Championship.
Sheamus vs. Christian
Christian’s music hits, and he makes his way down to the ring to a fairly nice reaction from this San Antonio crowd. While Christian is on his way to the ring, we get a look at the events from this past Friday where Christian attacked Sheamus post-match, that led directly into this match.
Sheamus is out to the ring next, and he gets a good reaction from the crowd as well.
Christian is slow to get back into the ring after Sheamus makes his way in, but he finally does, and the bell rings. Sheamus goes for the lock up but Christian ducks it and slaps Sheamus in the face. Sheamus is quick to respond clubbing down across Christian’s back, hitting a knee to the side of the head, and slamming Christian to the mat. Sheamus misses and elbow drop, but he’s quick to come back, taking Christian into the corner and punching and stomping away at Christian.
Sheamus picks Christian up and takes him to the apron, tying Christian up against the top rope and clubbing away at Christian’s chest. Sheamus brings Christian back into the ring with a huge delayed suplex which is good for a two count. Sheamus sends Christian into the ropes and catches a kick to the chest. Christian hits Sheamus behind the knee and takes him to the mat with a neckbreaker. Christian stands Sheamus up and hits another neckbreaker. Christian lays into Sheamus with a series of rights until he’s backed away by the ref. Sheamus tries to come back but Christian puts him back down and chokes him in the corner. Sheamus responds by burying his shoulder into Christian’s midsection in the corner, but when he charges Christian moves and Sheamus’ shoulder connects with the ring post.
Sheamus picks Christian up and takes him to the apron, tying Christian up against the top rope and clubbing away at Christian’s chest. Sheamus brings Christian back into the ring with a huge delayed suplex which is good for a two count. Sheamus sends Christian into the ropes and catches a kick to the chest. Christian hits Sheamus behind the knee and takes him to the mat with a neckbreaker. Christian stands Sheamus up and hits another neckbreaker. Christian lays into Sheamus with a series of rights until he’s backed away by the ref. Sheamus tries to come back but Christian puts him back down and chokes him in the corner. Sheamus responds by burying his shoulder into Christian’s midsection in the corner, but when he charges Christian moves and Sheamus’ shoulder connects with the ring post.
Christian goes for the quick roll up before wearing out Sheamus with big right hands and a rear chin lock. Sheamus stands to his feet with Christian on his back and drops down to the mat to force Christian to break the hold. Christian hits a drop to hold that sends Sheamus into the ropes. Christian stands on Sheamus’ back and chokes him on the middle rope before jumping to the outside and hitting a slap to Sheamus’ face. Christian comes back into the ring with a big move from the top, but it can’t hold Sheamus down for the pin. Christian connects with a big dropkick that sends Sheamus to the mat and Christian goes back up to the top. Christian goes for a flying head butt but Sheamus moves out of the way.
Sheamus gets up and takes out Christian with a couple of big clotheslines and a big slam. Christian catches a charging Sheamus in the corner with a big boot, but Sheamus comes back by catching Christian off the middle rope and hitting a big fall away slam. Christian goes out to the apron and Sheamus tries to bring him in with a suplex but Christian fights him off. Sheamus charges Christan, but Christian low-bridges Sheamus and sends him flying to the outside. Sheamus is able to come back though, coming back into the ring with a slingshot shoulderblock that puts Christian down for two. Sheamus goes for the gorilla press but Christian gets out of it and slaps Sheamus across the face. Christian is able to connect with the reverse DDT which is good for another near fall.
Sheamus gets to his feet and he and Christian fight for control. Sheamus ties Christian up in the ropes and kicks away at him before pulling him back into the middle for another near fall. Christian tries for the Killswitch, but Sheamus counters into the Celtic Cross. Christian fights off the Cross, and catches Sheamus with a couple of big kicks. Christian comes off the middle rope but he’s caught by Sheamus and put down with a big urunage that’s good for another two count.
Sheamus goes for the bicycle kick, but Christian counters with a big spear. Christian goes for the pin but Sheamus kicks out at two. Sheamus rolls out to the apron. Sheamus catches Christian with a couple of big rights to the head that send him flying back into the ring. Sheamus goes up to the top but he’s stopped by Christian. Christian climbs to the top and takes Sheamus down with a top rope hurricarana. Christian goes for another spear, but this time Sheamuse counters with the bicycle kick, taking Christian down for the three count.
Winner: Sheamus
David Otunga is shown backstage with John Lauranaitis. Ace says Vengeance was his idea before he’s interrupted by R-Truth and Miz. Miz thanks Ace for making the WWE a safer environment. Truth asks why they were reinstated. Ace says it’s because he believes they have a lot of charisma and he believes they could be the greatest tag team of all time. Not really, but it’s because they suck up well, before he leaves. Miz and Truth argue about who’s the better suck-up before they turn to making fun of Triple H and CM Punk. Miz says Punk sucks so bad, that Booker T says he’s a SUCKAAAA. Truth says the state of Texas sucks, and he’s beginning to not feel safe anymore. Miz says Triple H and Punk should feel unsafe, and Truth says it sucks to be them. Horrible segment.
We get a video package that goes all the way back to Money in the Bank, showing the events that have led up to this match, including Hunter being named, and then fired as, COO.
Triple H and CM Punk vs. The Miz and R-Truth
Miz and Truth are the first to make their way out to the ring. Miz dedicated their entrance music to the San Antonio crowd, and walk down singing ‘You Suck’.
CM Punk is out next to a huge reaction from the crowd. The Game, Triple H, is the last man to make his way out to the ring, and he too gets a pretty monstrous reaction from the crowd.
It looks like Punk and Miz will be starting things off. The bell rings and we’re ready to go. Punk goes for a kick but Miz avoids it. Punk chases Miz around in the ring but Miz ducks through the ropes, so Punk slaps at his face before backing away. Miz backs into the wrong corner and Hunter slaps him in the back of the head. This allows Punk to get in a couple of good shots including a big kick to the back. Punk tags out to Hunter and Miz goes across the ring promptly and tags out to Truth.
Punk shoves Miz from the apron out to the floor before locking up with Truth. Triple H puts Truth into a side headlock, Truth fights out of it only to get a shoulder block instead. Another lock up and Hunter buries his knee in Truth’s gut and hits him with a big right. Truth flips over Hunter and celebrates by doing the splits but he’s taken right down with a big right hand. Hunter tags out to Punk who comes in and hits a big falcon arrow on Truth for a two count. Truth kicks at Punk and makes the tag to Miz who comes in and eats a drop toe hold from Punk. Punk goes for the Mexican surfboard but he can’t grab the arms so he rips at Miz’s face and slaps at his back. Punk tags out to Hunter and they hit a double suplex on Miz.
Hunter locks in the figure four leg lock on Miz, and while the ref is attending to Miz, Hunter uses Punk for leverage. Truth is livid and he tries to get the attention of the ref but it doesn’t work. This continues on for a bit until Miz is able to make it to the ropes and Hunter tags right out to Punk. Punk and Hunter split the wishbone and Punk tries for a cover for two. Punk mounts Miz and locks in an arm bar.
Punk sends Miz into the corner but catches an elbow, then a right to the face from Truth. This allows Miz to tag out to Truth who comes in and stomps away at Punk. Truth hits Punk with a big right hand that takes him down to the mat before locking in a rear chin lock.
Punk is able to fight up to his feet and hit a belly to back suplex to force Truth to break the hold. Punk is able to make the tag to Hunter who comes in and takes it to both Truth and Miz. Hunter plants Truth with the spinebuster, drive Miz’s face into his knee, and clotheslines both over the top to the outside. Hunter goes to the outside, tosses Truth into the ring, and fights off an attack from Miz, only to turn around into a baseball slide from Truth.”
Truth goes to the outside and beats on Hunter for a bit before sending him back into the ring. Truth tags out to Miz who comes in and stomps at Hunter repeatedly. Miz distracts the ref so that Truth can choke Hunter. Truth tags in and he and Miz hit a double shoulder block which is good for a two count. Truth puts on a front face lock, trying to wear down Hunter, but The Game is able to make it up to his feet. Hunter takes Truth to the ropes, but Truth comes right back with a big corkscrew elbow which is good for another two count. Miz tags in and he goes to work kicking away at Hunter’s stomach before hitting him with a running high knee.
Miz puts on a rear chin lock, but Hunter is able to fight up to his feet and out of the hold. Miz turns it right around, hitting his reverse DDT, clothesline to the chest combo. Miz tags out to Truth and the two lay in to Hunter with boots to the head, setting up another near fall for Truth. Truth wraps his legs around Hunter’s head and squeezes away, trying to get Hunter to submit. Hunter is able to get up to his feet with Truth on his shoulder, he drops to his back to force Truth to break the hold.
Both men go for the tag but Hunter rolls to the wrong corner. Miz comes in and eats a big clothesline from Hunter right away and both men are down. Miz makes the tag and Hunter avoids a scissors kick from Truth, only to connect with a DDT.
Hunter makes the tag and Punk comes in hitting a springboard clothesline on Miz. Punk takes it to both Miz and Truth, hitting a bull dog on Truth and clothesline on Miz simultaneously. Punk goes for the pin on Miz but only gets a two count. Punk goes to the top but he’s stopped by Truth. Hunter interrupts Truth and throws him into the time keeper’s area. Punk goes up to the top and hits his Macho Man-style elbow drop. Hunter and Truth are fighting on the outside and Hunter is attacked out of nowhere by Kevin Nash. Punk tries for the G2S on Miz but it’s broken up by Truth. Miz and Truth hit their finishers at the same time, putting CM Punk down for the three count.
Winners: Miz and R-Truth
Following the match, Nash sends Hunter into the ring steps hard before taking things into the ring. Nash beats on Hunter in the corner for a bit before taking him into the middle of the ring and hitting the jackknife powerbomb. Nash goes out of the ring over the top rope and leaves through the crowd, how he came in.
After the assault, we get a recap of the assault. Hunter is still laid out on his back in the ring as we get multiple replays of the powerbomb, which honestly did not look great as Hunter landed completely on his head and shoulders.
Hunter eventually does make it back to his feet and is helped to the back by a pair of referees.
Johnny Ace is shown backstage on the phone, he’s interrupted by Alberto Del Rio. Ace says he’s got a lot on his plate. Del Rio says he should be the top priority. He says he’s never been in a Last Man Standing match before, and Ace knows how much punishment Cena can take. Ace says Del Rio hadn’t been in any Hell in a Cell matches before winning the title from Cena last month. He says Del Rio will find a way. Del Rio says he’s right, and seems relieved. Ace says it’s his job to make the talent happy, and provide the best show possible, before he wishes Alberto good luck in his match tonight.”
We get a couple of quick shots of a wax museum that has Undertaker and Cena figures. This doesn’t last long as we’re right back in the arena, and Randy Orton’s music hits. He gets a great reaction while he makes his way down to the ring.
Randy Orton vs. Cody Rhodes
Cody Rhodes is out next, and of course he’s got his bag-guys out with him, handing out bags to the crowd.
The bell rings and both men begin circling each other. Rhodes goes for Orton’s leg but Orton beats him away and hits a clothesline. Rhodes tries to come back with a bull dog but Orton tosses him away before clotheslining him over the top to the outside. Orton follows and slams Rhodes’ head into the steel stairs. Rhodes comes back into the ring and gets another clothesline, but he rolls to the outside, gets in a cheap shot on Orton, and comes back in hitting a big head butt. Rhodes picks Orton up and hits a front suplex before going to the middle rope and leaping off with a knee drop to the back of Orton’s neck.
Rhodes beats on Orton with punches and knees to the gut before hitting a big clubbing blow across Orton’s back. Orton comes back with rights of his own and a big European uppercut, but Rhodes takes Orton right back down with a big clothesline. Rhodes locks in a rear chin lock, working to wear down Orton. Orton is able to get up to his feet and out of the hold, hitting a big belly to back suplex.
Rhodes hits a big dropkick that puts Orton down for a two count. Rhodes stomps away repeatedly at Orton’s chest. Rhodes stomps at Orton’s head, then his stomach. Rhodes picks Orton’s legs up and tries to turn him in a Boston crab. Orton fights against it but Rhodes is eventually able to lock in the submission.
Orton fights his way out of the hold with kicks to Rhodes’ head. Rhodes charges Orton in the corner but he’s caught with a roll up for two. Rhodes and Orton fights for the upper hand and Rhodes is able to hit the Alabama slam, putting Orton down for another two count.
Rhodes slowly makes his way to the top rope and tries for a moonsault, which is as beautiful as Kurt Angle’s, but he misses as Orton moves out of the way. Orton hits a couple of big clotheslines, then takes Rhodes over with a snap powerslam. Rhodes rolls to the outside and catches Orton with a cheap shot. Rhodes goes to the top and leaps off, but Orton catches him with a dropkick out of nowhere that’s good for a two count. Orton goes for a backbreaker, but Rhodes fights out and hits the beautiful disaster kick to put Orton down for another two count.
Orton takes Cody out to the apron and tries for his rope assisted DDT, but Rhodes fights it off, only to be hit with Orton’s signature backbreaker for another near fall. Orton shoulders Rhodes and drops down to the mat, dropping him on his neck and back. Orton shoulders Rhodes again and places him on the top turnbuckle, laying in with a couple of big right hands. Orton goes up after Rhodes, but Rhodes fights him off with a head butt. Rhodes goes for, and connects with a moonsault press to a standing Orton for another two count.
Rhodes goes back to the corner and climbs up to the middle rope, but when he comes off with a knee drop Orton moves and Cody crashes to the mat. Orton is distracted by one of Cody’s baggers, allowing Rhodes to catch Orton in the cross Rhodes. Rhodes goes for the pin, but Orton won’t stay down.
Rhodes drops down to the mat and begins to psych himself up like Orton. When Orton stands, Cody starts to move but he’s caught with a dropkick that sends him out to the apron. Orton brings Rhodes back into the ring with a rope assisted DDT. Rhodes calls for the other bagger, the charges Orton who sidesteps him, and sends him crashing into the bagger. Orton hits the RKO, and this one is in the books as Orton pins Cody for the three count.
Winner: Randy Orton
We get a look at the events that have led into this match, mainly Mark Henry being dominant and absolutely steam-rolling everyone in his path. This should be an interesting ‘Clash of the Titans’.
World Heavyweight Championship Match: Mark Henry (c) vs. Big Show
Big Show is the first man to make his way out to the ring, and he’s welcomed back to PPV with a good reaction from the crowd.
The World Heavyweight Champion, Mark Henry, is the next man to make his way out to the ring, and he gets a bit of heat from the crowd as he slowly makes his way down to the ring.
The bell rings, and both men lock up right away. Henry pushes Show away. Another lock up and Henry pushes Show back into the corner. Show blocks a punch from Henry, turns things around and begins unloading on Henry in the corner with punches and kicks. Henry bails to the outside.
Henry slowly makes his way back into the ring, telling the ref to back Big Show up. Show doesn’t comply, instead racing over and pulling Henry back into the ring over the top rope. Show hits a superkick (kind of), and Henry rolls to the outside again.
Henry goes over to the time keeper’s area, and asks for his title. He begins to leave but Show stops him cold with a clubbing blow across the back before sending him back into the ring. When Show tries to get back into the ring Henry catches him with a vicious chop block before picking Show up and slamming him to the mat. Henry hits a big elbow drop, burying his elbow in Show’s back. Henry picks up Show’s leg and jams his knee down into the canvas. Henry hits the ropes and hits a big elbow drop to Show’s knee.
Henry continues to work over Show’s leg, wrenching away and not letting go. Show reaches for the ropes but he’s not close enough. Henry pulls Show even further toward the center of the ring to make the ropes an even harder goal to attain. Show is finally able to slam his leg down across Henry’s face to force him to break the hold. Show goes for a slam but his knee gives out and Henry falls on top of him for a two count. Henry goes back to the leg again, twisting Show’s ankle and putting pressure on the rest of the leg.
Show finally kicks Henry away, breaking the hold. Both men are slow to their feet, but when they get there they each charge and take each other out with two giant clotheslines.
Both men get to their knees and begin trading right hands, then head butts as they make their way to their feet. Show gets the upper hand with repeated head butts and a couple of big clotheslines. Show charges Henry and hits a back splash in the corner before taking the champ to the mat with a big shoulderblock. Show picks Henry up and slams him to the mat before calling for the chokeslam. Show tries for the chokeslam, and he connects. Show goes for the pin but Henry kicks out at two.
Show looks at his hand, then balls it into a fist. Henry stops Show with a kick to the gut before hitting the World’s strongest slam. Henry goes for the pin but Show is able to kick out at two. Henry looks shocked.
Henry goes out to the apron and actually begins climbing to the top rope. Big Show catches him and is able to hit a chokeslam from the top, but when he goes for the pin Henry still kicks out at two!
This time Show looks like he can’t believe it. Show gets up to his feet and he looks distraught. Show goes out to the apron, and HE goes to the top! Henry stops Show and Show is seated on the top turnbuckle. Henry follows up and hits a GIGANTIC superplex that breaks the ring, reminiscent of Show/Lesnar where the same thing happened.
Henry and Show are both laid out. Replays are shown over and over, and even though I’ve seen it before, it’s still a HELL of a sight to see. The trainer is down in the ring checking on Show and Henry, and they’re signaling for help. There’s no bell.
Show hasn’t moved since the superplex and the trainer calls for a golf cart, saying that a stretcher won’t do. Johnny Ace and Teddy Long make their way down to the ring.
Show is finally turned over while Henry is helped on the other side of the ring. Show is helped from the ring on to the cart. Show curses as he’s loaded on to the cart and taken to the back. Henry is next and he’s helped out of the ring but promptly falls to the floor. Henry is helped to his feet, but he pushes the officials away and begins crawling to the back on his own. Teddy Long asks Henry to let people help him but Mark refuses to be helped, screaming ‘I’m the Champion’.
Henry finally accepts a bit of help, but he makes his way to the back on his own. John Lauranaitis has the mic, and he introduces himself. He says he’s here to tell the fans that no matter what happened, he’s going to give the fans what they want. They will have the WWE Championship match here tonight. He says he hopes the crowd agrees with his decision.
We get a video package that details the events leading into this match, specifically the events that occurred at Hell in a Cell where Del Rio won the title.
Last Man Standing Match for the WWE Championship: Alberto Del Rio (c) vs. John Cena
Justin Roberts runs down the rules of the match before introducing Ricardo Rodriegez. Rodriegez introduces Del Rio, who gets a bit of a mixed reaction from the crowd.
Del Rio looks furious as he discusses the state of the ring with the referee. Cena’s music hits, and the challenger gets a huge reaction from the crowd as he makes his way out to the destroyed ring.
Cena himself doesn’t look too happy with the state of the ring as he looks around at the collapsed ring posts and the sagging ring ropes.
The bell rings, and Del Rio throws Ricardo at Cena. Cena shoulders Ricardo but Del Rio catches him with a kick to the stomach before mounting him and punching away at Cena’s face. Del Rio hits a suplex before hitting Cena with a big boot to the face. It’ll be really interesting to see how this match plays out without ring ropes. Del Rio backs away and hits Cena with a huge kick to the face, sending Cena falling to the outside. Del Rio follows and sends Cena head first into one of the ring posts.
Cena makes it back to his feet and into the ring. Del Rio takes him down with repeated right hands. Del Rio keeps letting the referee count, then attacking Cena as soon as he gets to his feet. Cena stops this by picking Del Rio up and slamming him to the mat. Cena picks Del Rio up and slams him again before hitting him with three consecutive elbow drops. Del Rio makes it up to his feet and he’s peppered with rights and lefts from Cena. Del Rio responds with a kick to the back and a big low dropkick to Cena.
Del Rio hits a belly to back suplex, and it’s interesting to watch this ring bounce with every move. Del Rio hits another belly to back suplex, then a third. Cena makes it back to his feet at 7, ducks a clothesline and delivers one of his own. The ref starts the count for both men, and both make it up at four. Cena tries for the AA but Del Rio fights out and hits the back stabber.
Cena makes it up at 5. Del Rio kicks at Cena, then hits a big suplex. Del Rio hits another suplex, then goes for a third but it’s blocked and reversed by Cena. Both men get counted by the ref and both make it up at four. Cena hits two shoulderblocks, then a belly to back suplex. He can’t hit the ropes, but he still connects with the five knuckle shuffle anyway. Cena tries for the AA but Del Rio fights it off and hits a beautiful German suplex.
Cena makes it to his feet at 4 and hits a quick gut wrench suplex. The ref starts the count on Del Rio. Del Rio makes it back to his feet at 4 and hits a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. Del Rio doesn’t wait for the ref to make the count, but instead picks Cena up and begins hitting him with rights and lefts before trying to bury Cena under one of the ring posts. Del Rio backs up, and jumps down on the post on top of Cena’s chest, driving it down.
Cena tries to fight to his feet but Del Rio won’t let go. The ref grabs Cena’s hand and picks it up for one. The ref stops counting, but Del Rio releases the hold and the referee begins his count.
Ricardo tries to get involved again, so Cena picks him up and crotches him on one of the splayed out ring posts. Cena’s caught off guard by Del Rio, who kicks him in the back repeatedly. Del Rio charges Cena and ends up eating a drop toe hold into the ring post where Ricardo is still crotched, it’s a funny sight.
Cena picks up the ring steps and throws them at Del Rio’s head hard, but Del Rio avoids it and takes Cena down with a flurry of rights. Del Rio slams Cena head first into the ring steps before backing away and charging in with a big clubbing blow. Del Rio picks up the other stairs and uses the to blast Cena in the head.
Cena makes it up to his feet at 8 and Del Rio is there with a big right but Cena responds with rights of his own, fighting him up the entrance ramp. They fight back to the backstage area where Cena tosses Del Rio on a table full of snacks.
Cena tries to push a huge equipment case on Del Rio, but Alberto moves and avoids being crushed. Del Rio throws Cena on top of the equipment case and body slams Cena down hard. The ref begins the count, but Cena makes it up at 7. Cena stumbles over into the interview area. Del Rio takes a piece of the set and throws it down on top of Cena. There are three other set pieces that are exactly the same, and Del Rio tosses all four on top of Cena in an attempt to hold Cena down.
The referee begins the count, and unbelievably, Cena climbs out from under the rubble and makes his way up to his feet. Del Rio and Cena fight back out into the arna and Cena is on wobbly legs. Cena blocks a punch from Del Rio and comes back with a series of his own. Ricardo is there from out of nowhere on Cena’s back and Del Rio uses the opportunity to stun Cena, then send him through a big cardboard V that’s part of the entrance ramp. Del Rio grabs a table and begins setting it up.
Del Rio places Cena on the table and begins climbing some of the set. Cena gets up and pulls Del Rio off of the set, sending him crashing through the table. Del Rio struggles but he’s able to get to his feet at 8. Cena lays in to Del Rio with punches and Del Rio tries to fight back. They begin to fight through the crowd and then eventually back to the ring. Del Rio is able to send Cena flying over the announcer’s table.
Del Rio begins disassembling the Spanish announce table. He goes to slam Cena in to the table head first, but Cena beats him around the ring and slams him into a barricade before taking out Ricardo. Del Rio shoves Cena into the ring post and tries for an enzugiri but Cena moves and Del Rio connects with the ring post. Cena goes for the ring steps at, setting them up next to the Spanish announce table. Cena shoulders Del Rio and begins climbing the steps. Cena stands at the top of the steps, and sends Del Rio crashing through the announce table with a huge AA.
Miz and Truth make their way from the back and attack Cena. Miz hits Cena with the SCF, then Truth hits the Lie detector. The referee hasn’t counted Del Rio because he’s been distracted by Truth and Miz. The referee begins the count on both men and Del Rio is stirring. Del Rio makes it to his feet at 4. Cena starts stirring at 6, but he’s up at 9. Del Rio is in the ring with the title belt and he uses it to blast Cena. The referee begins the count again. Cena stirs at 5, but he can’t make it to his feet by 10. And this match is over.
Winner and STILL WWE Champion: Alberto Del Rio
The show ends as Del Rio celebrates with his title as he makes his way up the entrance ramp and Cena looks confused and exhausted as he’s laid out in the ring.
– The Rock hypes WWE Survivor Series on Twitter on Sunday night:
“Time to ELECTRIFY NYC and Madison Square Garden like never before at Survivor Series. #BootsToAsses #THEPeoplesChampion”
– The dark match prior to Sunday’s WWE Vengeance pay-per-view saw Wade Barrett defeat Money in the Bank winner Daniel Bryan.
– In an update on Dustin “Goldust” Runnels, the WWE agent/producer is expected to undergo yet another surgery on his shoulder. This is due to scar tissue blocking him from regaining his full range of motion.
– In what several sources described as a nice gesture by WWE, the company told all talents not working the Mexico City RAW taping to head home early instead of coming to TV for an extra day. WWE then chartered a plane for all of them to get to Dallas, TX.
Here are some highlights of what various WWE personalities wrote about Sunday’s Vengeance pay-per-view on Twitter:
Vickie Guerrero: “At the end of the night, at least I still have some Gold….great job @HEELZiggler for US Champion”
Natalya: “I guess I’ll be watching @TheBethPhoenix backstage – I’m so mad. Kelly is such a whiner. Thanks for ruining my night @RealKellyKelly”
Zack Ryder: “Sorry Broskis…”
Jim Ross: “Amazing impact! San Antonio crowd came alive. Show & Henry both down. So is the ring. Looks like Henry-Show might be a no decision. Chaos..”
“ADR beats Cena to retain WWE Title…w/ help from Miz & Truth. Very physically intense match. Two Sore dudes tomorrow”
“Nasty crash by HHH thx to super sized power bomb from @RealKevinNash. Cringe worthy.”
“US Title means less when commentary veers off course. Could someone be feeding Cole those untimely, lame JR jokes? Nah.”
— The November 2011 issue of Maxim features an article on CM Punk (who dubs him wrestling’s “next megastar”) and it is publicly acknowledged for the first time that Beth Phoenix is his girlfriend. “The Glamazon” is quoted in the piece as she recalls the reaction backstage to his scathing on-air speech on the June 27 Raw concerning the way in which WWE is run and its owner, Vince McMahon.
“I was in the dressing room,” recalls Phoenix, “and everyone sprinted over to see what would happen when he came backstage. Would he get fired on the spot? Would there be some sort of fight?”
Punk entered a side door backstage, coming up behind the mob of wrestlers and personnel. They formed a circle around him. “Then, legit, everyone began to hug me,” Punk recalls. “I’m talking cameramen, guys who work the boom backstage, everyone.”
— Bobby Lashley is advertised for a special appearance at Family Wrestling Entertainment’s November 5 event at The Hall at St. Paul on 59th and 9th in Manhattan. He will also be participating in a meet and greet prior to the show. Visit www.fwewrestling.com for more information.
Last week’s post-Bound For Glory edition of TNA Impact Wrestling (10/20) did a 1.35 cable rating with 2,019,000 viewers.
That show, headlined by James Storm defeating Kurt Angle to capture the TNA World title, was the second most-watched episode of Impact this year (the after Sting’s return earlier this year).
Melina, who has remained mum on the subject of TNA Wrestling since parting ways with WWE in August, was asked at the pre-launch party for Saints Row: The Third if she has plans to join the promotion (video available here).
She discreetly replied, “Oh, I’m still… still deciding.”
Melina was also asked if she’ll be appearing on Dancing with the Stars. She said “you never know” and explained, “I’d love to do any opportunity that presents itself, I would love to do that. I’m also interested in like Cirque du Soleil too, so I’m kind of like, you know, the sky’s the limit right now! There’s so many opportunities and it’s just (laughs) overwhelming!”
Melina stated in a 2007 interview with The Sun that she watches TNA.
“I still watch all the wrestling I can – whether it’s TNA, Japanese or Lucha Libre – because that’s my art,” she said.
The day after WWE announced they had come to terms on the release of Melina, and Gail Kim revealed on Twitter that she had quit the promotion, Mickie James was asked during an interview promoting Hardcore Justice about the possibility of her former Diva colleagues coming to TNA.
“I’d love to work with Gail,” James said. “I didn’t really get a chance to work with her. We had, like, maybe one or two matches but we were always on the side usually, so that would be really exciting. I was kinda looking forward to doing more with her and I didn’t get a chance.”
Solomonster raves about CM Punk and Dean Ambrose in FCW, then dives right into a very noteworthy week for Impact Wrestling including a horrible end to Bound for Glory, the Hogan vs. Sting “Philly Miracle”, a 40-minute opening segment on Impact and James Storm wins the World title. Plus, WWE Vengeance predictions (yay, another PPV this weekend), Raw in Mexico disappoints, Mick Foley’s return, great tag match on ROH TV, thoughts on the Scott Hall ESPN piece and a SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT concerning the next Sound Off! You don’t wanna miss this!
— After parting ways with WWE and the professional wrestling industry three years ago, Cherry now works at SeaWorld.
She wrote on Twitter, “So the most asked question is what have I been doing since wrestling…..I’m a tour guide at Sea World!!!! Love u @NatbyNature and @KiddWWE.”
— Darren Young, who is currently serving a thirty-day suspension due to his first violation of WWE’s Talent Wellness Program, made a surprise appearance at Saturday’s Independent Wrestling Federation event in Woodland Park, New Jersey. On behalf of “the boys in the back,” the IWF graduate presented promotion head Kevin Knight with a plaque recognizing his fifteen years of service to the professional wrestling industry.
“The nicest thing anyone ever did for me was Darren Young flying in for tonight’s IWF event and come to the ring to surprise me and the fans,” Knight wrote on Facebook. “The man who trained me 15 1/2 years ago Rik Ratchet was there. Original IWF Commissioner AJ Sparxx & Biggie Biggs on the card! ALL FOR THE FANS!”
— ODB, who has not competed on television since being awarded a TNA contract by Knockouts VP Karen Jarrett on the September 1 episode of Impact Wrestling, stated on Twitter that she’s looking to make a change.
She wrote, “Im thinkn i need a change and its up to me to make this happen.”
ODB has also repeatedly stated in recent weeks that she’s trying her best to lose excess weight.
— Hulk Hogan has teamed up with Sports Nutritional Innovations, Inc. to bring consumers a new online nutrition store, HoganNutrition.com. The site features thousands of nutritional supplements
“I am extremely excited to partner with SNI to help people get the nutritional products and supplements they need to get in shape and build muscle,” Hogan said. “It will not only help people take their vitamins everyday, but give them an easy and affordable way to do so.”
Don’t miss Thursday’s huge IMPACT WRESTLING broadcast on SpikeTV at 9/8c, as the road continues to the November 13 “Turning Point” Pay-Per-View event!
Here is a preview of Thursday’s broadcast:
– NEW World Heavyweight Champion James Storm will appear on the huge broadcast! Just one week after the TNA Original captured one of the biggest prizes in pro wrestling, Storm will address the fans on his future as champion!
– In addition, the new GM “General Menace” of Impact Wrestling “The Icon” Sting will be in attendance this Thursday. Sting has promised to have a new #1 Contender for Storm’s World Title by the end of the broadcast. Who will get the next shot at the gold?
– Also on Thursday night, “The Charismatic Enigma” Jeff Hardy makes his in-ring wrestling return against Bully Ray! Can Hardy capitalize on his second chance – or will Bully Ray ruin Hardy’s return? Tune in and find out!
– Gail Kim also makes her return to action on IMPACT WRESTLING, facing Tara in a Knockouts match! The question is, will Knockouts Champion Velvet Sky be waiting to get revenge on Gail for attacking her last week? Or, will Knockouts VP Karen Jarrett continue to make Velvet’s life a living hell?
– Plus, the Television Championship will be on the line as Eric Young defends against Robbie E….in addition, Christopher Daniels battles Rob Van Dam….and more!
Also appearing on Thursday night – Jeff and Karen Jarrett, “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair, “The Phenomenal” AJ Styles, Eric Bischoff and many more!
— WWE developmental wrestler Tito Colon was brought on the road this weekend for an evaluation. At last night’s WWE Supershow in Corpus Christi, Texas, he partnered with Primo, his real-life cousin, and lost to Jey and Jimmy Uso.
Prior to Carlito’s dismissal from WWE, creative plans were in place for Tito to be promoted to the main roster and form a three-man stable.
— Zack Ryder announced on Twitter that he is holding a Broski Halloween Costume Contest. He wrote, “Tweet me a pic of your Zack Ryder costume by 11/1. Winner will received package of signed ZR merchandise! 4 Runner ups will receive signed Zack Ryder 8×10. Happy HalloWOOWOOWOOeen!”
— Bill DeMott and Alicia Fox were at Florida Championship Wrestling’s headquarters in Tampa last week mentoring WWE’s female developmental talent.
— John Cena stated on Twitter that he will be on hand for Tuesday’s SmackDown taping in Houston, Texas.
— WWE Network’s planned reality series that will follow the Divas on a private tour bus will be titled WWE Divas Heels on Wheels. The program is described as “a reality show that welcomes you aboard the private Divas tour bus as it travels from venue to venue. Cameras will roll 24/7, capturing the unscripted bonds, battles, and behind-the-scenes drama that only our WWE Divas can deliver when their public and private lives merge on the open road.”
— Zack Ryder stated on Twitter that WWEShop.com will no longer sell the “Take Care, Spike Your Hair” T-Shirt.
— WWE Hall of Famer Pedro Morales turned 69 years old on Saturday.
Jim Ross answered a series of fan questions Saturday on Twitter including whether he’d ever consider joining TNA Wrestling, why Chris Benoit and Owen Hart have not been enshrined in the WWE Hall of Fame, why SmackDown isn’t live, and more.
Matt Hardy returning to WWE: “Matt Hardy should get clean and sober & not worry about wrestling until his life isn’t an embarrassment & being put at risk.”
Why SmackDown isn’t live on a weekly basis: “Smackdown isn’t live because of exorbitant, increased tv production costs of keeping production crew on road all week.”
If reports of him penning an autobiography are true: “Not true..more Internet dirt. I’m not in process of writing a book. ‘maybe’ some day.”
If he’d ever join TNA Wrestling: “I’m a WWE guy plus TNA has excellent announcers & they don’t need my services.”
Why Owen Hart is not in the WWE Hall of Fame: “Owen Hart has not been inducted because of potential legal issues w/ his estate, etc.”
Why Chris Benoit is not in the WWE Hall of Fame: “Why #ChrisBenoit not yet inducted to #HOF?…. You can’t be serious.”
The fan replied, “Benoit was a GREAT wrestler, you’ve got to give him credit for that.”
Ross responded, “No one ever said Benoit wasn’t a great wrestler did they? The last few days of his life precludes his HOF status.”
— Nigel McGuinness, who formerly competed as Desmond Wolfe for TNA Wrestling, will return to the ring on November 12, 2011 for Heartland Wrestling Association at the Great Miami Event Center in Hamilton, Ohio.
It will be his first wrestling appearance by McGuinness since the summer of 2010, when he was sidelined with an undisclosed health issue. Following his release from TNA, he returned to Ring of Honor as a color commentator.
— Marty Jannetty, 51, has landed a job with CHIKARA as both a trainer and wrestler. He debuts next Saturday against Tursas in Reading, Pennsylvania.
— WWE Hall of Famer Superstar Billy Graham is advertised to appear The Whole Scoop 1149 North Railroad Staten Island, New York on November 13 from noon to 2:00 p.m. Visit www.sportsfanpromotions.com for more information.
— Jim Ross tweeted an update on Gerald Brisco’s health Friday after the WWE Hall of Famer suffered a “mild stroke” on Wednesday as he was being driven to the airport to scout amateur wrestlers for WWE at the Pan American Games.
Ross wrote, “Jerry Brisco is home from a Tampa hospital. Feeling better. Still has more tests to under go. My friend’s a fighter.”
— Michelle McCool will be chatting with fans on November 18, 2011—seven years to the day of her WWE debut. The chat will take place on MichelleMcCool.net.
“In our first-ever live chat with Michelle, you’ll have the opportunity to chat with the former WWE Diva; whether it is asking follow-up questions from her two-part audio exclusive with us, sharing random observations that have always been on your mind, to just sharing your day, this is your opportunity to express yourself, and even get an instant reply!”
Heath Miller, who WWE suspended Monday for 30 days due to his first violation of their Talent Wellness Program, issued a statement Friday concerning the event. “Mr. Excitement” wrote:
“As most of you already know, I am going to be out of the WWE spotlight for the next few weeks. Of course everyone is going to form thier own opinions on why that is but I don’t feel the need to explain myself to all the SLATER HATERS out there running thier mouths. There R plenty going to focus all my efforts on being the best Superstar I can be – MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY… TO MYSELF, MY FRIENDS, FAMILY AND TRUE FANS.
“I am truly sorry to have disappointed you. I made a simple mistake… everyone does once in a while. But trust me when I say I will NOT be making this one again. I PROMISE upon my return you will see a more determined, fearless, confident and improved person. Im going to be THE MAN I WANT TO BE. So let the countdown start…”
CM Punk is in “top consideration” for the WWE Championship Match at WrestleMania XXVIII since company officials are leaning against the title being on the line in the match pitting John Cena against The Rock.
The heavily hyped bout is not expected to be for the title because WWE brass feel the finish would be too obvious since fans don’t expect The Rock to leave WrestleMania as champion.
Cena will reportedly be removed from the title picture following Sunday’s Vengeance pay-per-view, which would indicate that Alberto Del Rio will retain the title in their Last Standing Match. Cena will begin building towards his partnership with The Rock at Survivor Series while Del Rio is expected to enter a program with Punk.
— NBC announced their lineup of holiday programming for 2011 and it’s noted that WWE’s annual Tribute the Troops special will air Saturday, December 17 from 9:00 to 10:00 p.m. EST.
The press release states: “The network will once again honor the United States armed forces as World Wrestling Entertainment in conjunction with NBC, will air the fourth annual holiday special ‘WWE Tribute to the Troops.'”
— Big Show is currently in Japan promoting WWE’s upcoming Raw live events at the Yokohama Arena. He participated in an interview with wwe.co.jp and discussed his return to the ring, whether he prefers competing as a singles wrestler or in a tag team, his favorite Japanese food, and more.
— WWE Hall of Famers Pat Patterson and Tito Santana have been added to K & S Wrestlefest, which takes place Saturday, December 3 at the Ramada Philadelphia Airport 76 Industrial Hwy. Essington, Pennsylvania.
As we’ve been reporting here on the site – former WWE diva Stacy Keibler is dating Hollywood megastar George Clooney. After keeping their romantic relationship private for several weeks – the couple is now making public appearances together.
Keibler joined George Clooney on the red carpet at the Paris premiere of his new film “The Ides of March” earlier this week (10/19) .. and suffered a good-old-fashioned wardrobe malfunction.
Check out these pictures of Stacy Keibler and her new beau, George Clooney, at a movie premiere in Paris from earlier this week:
— Gail Kim, who returned to TNA Wrestling on Thursday’s episode of Impact Wrestling as a heel aligned with Knockouts VP Karen Jarrett and Madison Rayne, commented on the event.
She wrote on Twitter, “Thanks every1 4 getting me trending worldwide!@karenjarrett I think this is the start of a beautiful friendship :)))
“@MRayneTNA can’t forget the other piece of the puzzle some1 said the “A”team sounds about right.”
— The following matches were taped Tuesday and Wednesday in Orlando, Florida for upcoming episodes of TNA Xplosion: Jesse Sorensen vs. Robbie E, Brooke Tessmacher vs. Madison Rayne, Eric Young vs. Rob Terry, Gunner vs. Kazarian.
— Both James Storm and Gail Kim trended Thursday night on Twitter.
Former WWE and TNA star Travis Tomko posted bail on Thursday and was finally released from jail, according to the St. Augustine Record. He’ll be headed to WWE-sponsored drug rehab immediately.
Tomko’s attorney James McCune told the newspaper:
“He’s very grateful for all the support he’s received from his friends, family and fans around the world. Mr. Tomko realizes he is struggling with an addiction and with the support of his family and the WWE, he is voluntarily checking himself into an undisclosed treatment facility to receive the help he needs for a successful recovery.”
Tomko was arrested earlier this month after robbing a CVS pharmacy of oxycodone pills and getting caught in the bathroom of a Chili’s restaurant injecting over a hundred melted-down pills.
For much more on Tomko’s arrest, check out our Tomko News Page.