Home Blog Page 3085

Mick Foley Teases Return To WWE Following On-Screen Firing

24

Last night’s episode of IMPACT WRESTLING concluded with Hulk Hogan announcing that Mick Foley had been fired as the Network Executive.

Hogan opened up a legal document and said that effective immediately, The Network has exercised the option of terminating said position. He then said to the camera, “Mick Foley, you’re fired!” Hogan’s theme music played and Bischoff said, “This is the happiest day of my life.”

Foley lampooned news of his on-screen firing on Twitter. He wrote, “Wait, I was FIRED?!? Are you CEREAL..I mean SERIOUS?!?”

He added, “Wait, I just checked my DVR and it cut out during Bischoff’s speech. I can’t be fired; I just got back a few weeks ago. Right?”

Foley then teased a possible return to WWE, saying The Miz needs a new assistant (following the dismissal of Alex Riley) and he needs a new job.

He wrote, “Good point @DHStom – I think @mikethemiz might need a new assistant..and I need a new job. Interesting, huh?”

He then retweeted a fan’s comment indicating that he could have appeared at Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s birthday bash rather than return to TNA for a few weeks. It read: “Good thing Mick had to stay around for 3 weeks rather than be at @TheRock ‘s bday bash. #baddecisions”

In accordance with the storyline, his profile has been removed from the company website’s roster page. Foley, however, is still under contract to TNA. It expires in early September and he stated during an interview late last year with GeekWeek.com that he doesn’t plan on renewing it. “The Hardcore Legend” said he was frustrated with communication problems inherent in the structure of the organization and that he wasn’t pleased that they didn’t air footage of his appearance at Jon Stewart’s Rally To Restore Sanity at the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

WWE Teasing Shaquille O’Neal Could Wrestle Big Show

21

Following NBA star Shaquille O’Neal announcing his retirement earlier this week, WWE is teasing that Shaq could be returning to the company to rekindle his feud with the Big Show. Shaq was the celebrity guest host of an episode of RAW back in July 2009 and had a memorable confrontation with Show.

The following was posted on the WWE website on Friday:

“WWE Universe member Shaquille O’Neal has had the world abuzz since announcing his retirement from the NBA. After his tussle with Big Show as Raw guest star, WWE fans might wonder if the 15-time All-Star will now look to settle his one-night rivalry.”

Earlier this week, Dragon Gate USA booker Gabe Sapolsky wrote a blog in which he suggested that WWE Chairman Vince McMahon reach out to Shaq. Sabpolsky wrote over at HeymanHustle.com:

“It’s no secret that wrestling .. errrr … sports entertainment needs something to shake it up,” Sapolsky wrote. “WWE gained a great boost recently with the return of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Now they need that one hook for the mainstream public like Mike Tyson was in 1996.

“‘The Answer’ just quit his job and became a free agent. His name is Shaquille O’Neal. Shaq is on the market. It’s well documented he loves wrestling. He understands how to entertain and perform. He has size and athletic ability. The best part is he could now make a long term commitment and he’s looking for something new to do.”

COMMENT BELOW: Would YOU want to see a Shaq vs. Big Show special attraction match in WWE – possibly at WrestleMania next April?

Check out this video of Shaq & Big Show’s confrontation from the night Shaq hosted RAW:

Jeff Hardy Legal Update, TNA’s Cellphone Ban & More

16

– Jeff Hardy’s never-ending drug case was delayed once again this week, with the next court date set for June 27th. Back at the April 21st hearing, Moore County Sentencing Services program administrator Becky Carlson told the court she needed until June 1st to finish Hardy’s evaluation, but missed that deadline.

– TNA is now branding its live events as the “Impact Wrestling World Tour.”

– With the recent news of cellphones being banned from TNA television tapings due to spoilers being sent out while the events were taking place, the ban was put in place by Universal Studios, not TNA. According Universal’s policy, fans will get a warning the first time they are caught. A repeat violation will result in the fan being thrown out of the building and possibly banned from the Impact Zone.

A fan was ejected from Monday’s tapings for using their phone to send out spoiler results.

(Partial Source: f4wonline.com)

Angle-Olympics Update, Storm-Harris-Rude Plans, AAA News

7

– Kurt Angle appeared on the Talksport radio show in London this week and talked about his quest to compete at the 2012 Olympic Games next summer. Angle said that he really misses the competitive edge that olypmpic-level wrestling offers. Angle talked about his disappointments of not negotiating a deal to pursue a career in MMA. He mentioned that he will make the odd TV and pay-per-view appearances for TNA, but as of now he is training for the olympics.

– With the recent TNA return of Chris Harris, company officials had discussed reuniting Harris with James Storm to reform America’s Most Wanted – with Robert Roode moving on as a singles wrestler. After Harris wasn’t getting over as well as TNA hoped and is not in great shape, the idea was scrapped. There are still plans for Beer Money to split up in the near future.

– Jeff Jarrett has the person handling most of TNA’s affairs with Mexico’s AAA promotion. Jarrett is booking the current TNA vs. AAA storyline that’s currently taking place on AAA television and Jarrett is said to have some big ideas for AAA’s upcoming TripleMania show.

(Partial Source: f4wonline.com)

SmackDown Match Preview, Why WWE Changed Name Of PPV

9

— Tonight on SmackDown, Randy Orton defends the World Heavyweight Championship against No. 1 contender Sheamus. Plus, Intercontinental Champion Wade Barrett takes on Ezekiel Jackson in an Intercontinental Title rematch. Other matches scheduled to take place include:

* Christian vs. Mark Henry

* AJ and Kaitlyn vs. Alicia Fox and Tamina

* Jinder Mahal vs. Yoshi Tatsu

* Daniel Bryan vs. Ted DiBiase

— WWE changed the name of the October pay-per-view event from Uprising to Vengeance after finding out that Dragon Gate USA had a pay-per-view event called Uprising.

— Edge is featured on the cover of the latest issue of Power Slam.

source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

VIDEO: Jesse Ventura Talks Savage, McMahon & More

5

New York City radio DJ Peter Rosenberg (Hot 97) interviewed former WWE personality / Governor / best selling author / actor / TV host Jesse Ventura this week. Ventura speaks about Randy Savage for the first time since his recent death and the epic encounter Savage had at WrestleMania III against Ricky “The Dragon Steamboat. Ventura also talks about working with Vince McMahon back in the heyday of Saturday Night’s Main Event, Gorilla Monsoon and more:

JR Blog: Chris Jericho’s WWE Return, Alex Riley, WWE ’12

8

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog, which you can read in its entirety over at JRsBarBQ.com. Here are some highlights of what Jim Ross said about:

Chris Jericho’s 3rd Book & WWE Return:

Chris Jericho is looking at doing a 3rd book! Amazing. I can’t even put a plan together to write one while wanting to stay away from a full blown autobiography at this time. Jericho is uber talented in many areas and has likely not wrestled his last WWE bout. The thing about Jericho is that he’s going to do things on his time line and that he enjoys doing. When or if he becomes ready to return to WWE he will. The Winnipeg native and Fozzy front man certainly doesn’t ‘owe’ any of us one more match.

Alex Riley Getting A Babyface Push:

– Yes emailer….Alex Riley has upped his game the past two weeks on Raw while beating up The Miz. The key to Riley’s rise to stardom and latching on to something tangible at the next level is his continued ability to shine and to get on a roll. The roll has started but how long will it be sustained? That’s always going to be the question no matter the talent. Riley-Miz has been some of my favorite, MNR content the past two broadcasts. It feels new and fresh.

The New WWE ’12 Video Game:

– The THQ rendition of the WWE12 video game is going to really be slick. THQ has some very educated and intelligent fans of the genre working on this game and I look for it to be the most ecstatically pleasing and exciting to play video game that THQ/WWE has done to date.

  • Screenshots From The New WWE 12 Video Game

Updated Line-up For Slammiversary – Two Matches Announced

13

Two matches were officially announced for Slammiversary on this week’s episode of IMPACT WRESTLING. AJ Styles will battle Bully Ray in a Last Man Standing Match. Also, the TNA World Tag Team Championship will be on the line as Alex Shelley and James Storm defend the gold against Douglas Williams and Magnus. Shelley replaces Bobby Roode in the match.

A TNA X Division Championship Match between Abyss and Kazarian was announced for the pay-per-view event at the beginning of IMPACT, but a No. 1 Contender’s Match between Kazarian and Brian Kendrick was subsequently held. The match was ruled a no contest and TNA does not have the bout listed on the company website’s pay-per-view line-up.

Slammiversary Match Line-up

TNA World Heavyweight Championship Match
Sting (c) vs. Mr. Anderson

The Final Battle
Kurt Angle vs. Jeff Jarrett
(Match to determine the No. 1 Contender to the World Heavyweight Championship with Angle’s Olympic gold medal on the line)

TNA World Tag Team Championship Match
Alex Shelley and James Storm (c) vs. Douglas Williams and Magnus

Last Man Standing Match
AJ Styles vs. Bully Ray

TNA Women’s Knockout Championship Match
Mickie James (c) vs. Angelina Love

Singles Match
Samoa Joe vs. Crimson

Singles Match
Matt Morgan vs. Scott Steiner

Ring Name Discussed For Averno, Backstage Skepticism On Cara

18

Mexican based wrestling magazine Super Luchas reported on Sunday that WWE had signed Averno, one of the top heel wrestlers in Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL). He then claimed he hadn’t signed with WWE and would prove it by defeating La Mascara in an upcoming Mask vs. Match Match. His father confirmed that his son had signed with WWE, but backtracked because it would make the result of the match, scheduled for June 17, obvious.

Averno participated in a tryout match with WWE in October, but was not signed then due to organization officials’ directive on not obtaining talent older than 30 years unless established. He is 34 years old.

Averno, as well as WWE developmental wrestler Peter Orlov, participated in the filming of the vignettes promoting Sin Cara’s debut. WWE’s acquisition of the masked grappler is said to be directly related to the SmackDown Superstar being asked to name the wrestler he worked best with, following concern over his match with Chavo Guerrero at Over the Limit. WWE officials are determined to make Sin Cara successful because he was promoted as the first discovery of Triple H in his role as chief of talent development. However, there has always skepticism on his prospects due to his inability to speak English and being thrown on television before learning the American style of wrestling.

It is considered certain that Averno will debut with a new ring name. One name being discussed for the 16-year wrestling veteran is Rey Ortiz II. He is also expected to perform without his mask.

source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

TNA Star Sidelined Due To Neck Injury, TNA Knockout Turns 30

13

— Jesse Neal missed the last set of television tapings as well as this week’s events due to a neck injury he suffered at Sacrifice when Hernandez hit him with the Dominator.

The Mexican America star already has a reputation of being dangerous when performing his big power moves. In February, Douglas Williams landed on his neck following an errant Border Toss.

— TNA Wrestling is now branding their live events as the “Impact Wrestling World Tour.”

— TNA Wrestling has announced a BaseBrawl event for Saturday, August 27 at Regions Park Stadium in Birmingham, Alabama. Tickets go on sale this Saturday at Barons.com and charge by phone at 205-988-3200.

— Velvet Sky turns 30 years old today while AJ Styles turns 34.

source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter

VIDEO: Z! True Long Island Story (Episode 16)

10

Mr. Long Island Iced Z, Zack Ryder is back with another installment of his Z! True Long Island Story series.

Sit back and enjoy Episode 16, BRO .. WWWYKI

Eric Bischoff Rants About Internet Fans Again

46

TNA executive Eric Bischoff went on another rant against the Internet Wrestling Community (IWC) on Wednesday night.

Bischoff tweeting the following in response to the “IWC smarks” who follow pro wrestling online and are outspoken about TNA’s product:

“Seems like 90% of the audience loves what the loudest 10% hates. So who really matters? The 10%er’s can’t get over the fact that they are irrelevant. Ratings don’t lie. Research doesn’t lie. IWC smarks need to get over it.”

Comment below and tell us what you think about Bischoff’s position. What do you think about Bischoff calling 10% of his audience “irrelevant” .. He points at TNA’s ratings as an example of why fans who criticize TNA on the Internet are wrong – when Impact’s rating hasn’t moved out of the 1.1 range in the past 5 years despite millions of dollars spent on marketing and expensive talent.

Hulk Hogan Asks Fans To Pray For Ultimate Warrior

19

The ongoing saga between the Ultimate Warrior and Hulk Hogan continues.

Following The Ultimate Warrior’s recent remarks that he’s going to expose Hulk Hogan for what he truly is, Hogan asks people to pray for Warrior:

“It’s awesome how such grateful positive people live in abundance and how they always try to help and pray for the lost negative people. his claim to fame was our match at WM,if he didn’t have that I’m not sure what he’s done.he’s just trying to keep his deal alive. only pray for him, just hope he stops attracting so much hate into his life. like attracts like.”

Road Dogg Comments On Triple H’s Office Role, R-Truth’s Push

11

Five-time WWE Tag Team Champion Road Dogg appeared on Busted Open with Doug Mortman and Dave LaGreca, which airs Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Sirius 92 and XM 207. Highlights from his interview are as follows:

R-Truth’s current push: “If you ask me, the WWE is about ten years too late. They had this guy ten or twelve years ago. I actually kind of recruited him to be my tag team partner cause Billy (Gunn) had just blown his shoulder out and was gonna have surgery and he was gonna be out for a year. I saw Ron Killings perform in Memphis when I was on break from WWF at the time and I saw him perform and I just thought ‘Man, this guy is great’. I saw something in him…and the next thing I know, we were tagging together.”

“I know they switched it up a little bit and turned him heel and it’s working for him man, so I say you work it girl….he’s doing great. I don’t follow the show as closely as I probably should, but I do turn over when I hear my brothers reffing or Ronnie Killings is on. I love to watch him work, he’s a great athlete, he looks great, he’s a great guy and I love him. Nothing but love for Ronnie Killings.”

Triple H’s role within in WWE: “He’s a really level headed guy. He’s not very emotional. He’s not going to let his emotions rue the day whether he hired somebody because he doesn’t like them. If somebody is talented, they’re going to get an opportunity and that’s how he is. And I think he’s always kind of had a knack to get over. Even if it was being attached to somebody that was gonna get over, bringing a faction together that was gonna get over. He always knew what to do from very young in his career. He knew who to get with, who to hang out with, and what to say and what to do. As far as a skill set to be in that position he definitely has that.”

“Now that’s not saying that he didn’t marry the boss’s daughter and that all helped him along the way. I’m not saying that he got married because of the gig. I’m saying that that may have helped him achieve the ultimate goal of getting where he is now. One day, him and Steph are going to run that company, and that’s just the bottom line. Vince always held things tight to his vest and handled things himself, and I think Hunter and Stephanie will do the same thing in the future. I think the right guy is in the right spot, and I think he’ll continue to make good decisions as far as making WWE profitable.”

Working with Chyna: “To be quite honest with you, and I’m sure steroids are no secret in this business. I’m sure that she was probably on some steroids because she was a monster. I saw her train and it was just incredible to watch her and see how she grew and everything. I haven’t spoken to her in a long time. I know she’s had her own demons that she’s dealt with and so I hope she’s doing well. I didn’t see her on TV when she was on there. Billy (Gunn) talked to her when he was down there in Orlando when they filmed that TV and he said she’s doing really well.”

“She was a great girl. She was really one of the guys without trying to saying anything, everybody always ribbed her about being a guy. She wasn’t a guy, she was a girl. She definitely had the attitude and camaraderie. She had a great sense of humor, she was funny. I’m sure she still is, but we all become someone other than ourselves when we use drugs and use too much alcohol. Before that all happened to her, I think the wrestling world brought it out in her because she wasn’t like that at first. She wasn’t eccentric at all. She wasn’t like that. She was really level headed and fun to be around and so I hope she’s doing well now.”

WWE Adds Social Media Expert To Its Board Of Directors

0

WWE issued the following announcement on its corporate website, announcing that Patricia Gottesman has been elected to WWE’s board of directors. The statement includes a statement from WWE Chairman & CEO Vince McMahon:

WWE ELECTS PATRICIA A. GOTTESMAN TO BOARD OF DIRECTORS

STAMFORD, Conn., June 2, 2011 – WWE (NYSE:WWE) today announced that Patricia A. Gottesman has been elected to its Board of Directors.

Gottesman is currently the President and Chief Executive Officer of Crimson Hexagon, a social media monitoring and analysis company. Prior to joining Crimson, Gottesman served as Founder and Principal for Omnibus PG, an international media and technology practice. Gottesman began her career with Cablevision Systems Corporation and held several senior executive positions during the 29 years she spent with the company including Executive Vice President, Digital Marketing and Commerce; Executive Vice President, Product Management and Marketing; and Senior Vice President, Development.

“We are pleased to have Patricia join our Board of Directors,” stated Vincent K. McMahon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, WWE. “She brings extensive cable industry experience and is an accomplished senior executive with more than 30 years of business and management expertise in a number of areas, including programming, product development and new media.”

Gottesman has served as a board member of Crimson Hexagon since December 2010. In addition, Gottesman serves in advisory roles for TechMahindra, America India Foundation, comScore, Inc. and Elucido Media.

Gottesman graduated magna cum laude from Hofstra University with a Bachelor of Science degree in communications.

Punk’s WWE Future, Warrior Has Big News, Orton-Sheamus

22

– The Ultimate Warrior is now on Twitter and is wasting no time making with his controversial tweets. After releasing a scathing video earlier this week to Hulk Hogan for silencing his Warriors on Twitter, Warrior tweeted the following on Thursday, teasing “big news” coming soon:

“Thank you to all The Warriors out there spreading the word. Big news soon. Always Believe!!!”

Warrior has vowed to expose Hulk Hogan for the man he truly is, while Hogan maintains that Warrior is talking nonsense and is simply a negative person.

– Friday’s episode of SmackDown will feature a main event of Randy Orton defending the World Heavyweight title against Sheamus. The match was taped on Tuesday night from Des Moines, Iowa. Prior to the match taking place, a WWE fan jumped the ringside gate and tried jumping into the ring – but was caught by security and escorted out of the building.

– Following reports that Nexus leader CM Punk is strongly considering leaving WWE when his contract expires this summer, it’s worth noting that WWE’s live event website is only advertising CM Punk to appear at TV tapings and the Money in the Bank pay-per-view from July 6th through August 6th.

Update On Mexican Star Averno Headed To WWE

15

As reported over the weekend, masked Mexican wrestling star Averno is believed to have signed a contract with WWE. Averno was one of Sin Cara’s top opponents before Cara came to WWE and is expected to join the SmackDown brand as a familiar face that Sin Cara can have great matches with in the coming months.

Averno, who had a tryout match with WWE last October, puts his mask on the line in a match with La Mascara later this month at  CMLL’s next big show.

Averno was recently contacted by WWE after company officials asked Sin Cara who he would most like to work with. A number of WWE superstars have had a difficult time thus far adapting to Sin Cara’s lucha libre star and bringing in Sin Cara’s longtime rival from Mexico is a way to showcase both of their unique styles.

Averno headed to WWE has drawn a lot of negative press in Mexico, which has seen their top promotions business’ eroded by WWE recently establishing a strong presence in the region. Averno was interviewed in Mexico yesterday and basically did damage control, denying all of the WWE rumors – likely to keep fans interested in his final CMLL match later this month.

Averno’s father, who is an EMLL referee, confirmed in a separate interview that his son is headed to WWE.

Check out this match between Averno and Sin Cara from earlier this year at “CMLL FANTASTICA MANIA 2011” from Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall this past January:

Part 2:

*SPOILERS* TNA Impact Wrestling Results For Tonight

31

Credit to SEScoops.com reader Eric for the following spoilers from last night’s TNA Impact Wrestling tapings in Orlando, airing tonight on Spike.

* ODB and Velvet Sky kick things off with a fight which ODB wins. Miss Tessmacher tends to Velvet after the match.

* Mr. Anderson announced he will face someone from Sting’s past tonight.

* Eric Bischoff threatens to strip Beer Money of the tag team titles because Robert Roode is injured but Alex Shelley returns and will team with James Storm at Slammiversary to defend the belts against The British Invasion.

* Kazarian and Brian Kendrick go to a no contest in a #1 contender’s match for the X Division Title. They get more time past the time limit draw but Abyss comes out to make it a no contest.

* Crimson beat Matt Hardy and fought Samoa Joe after the match.

* Angelina Love beat Miss Tessmacher.

* Eric Young, dressed like The Great Muta, pinned Mr. Anderson. Gunner came out and interfered but backfired and allowed Young to spit green mist in Anderson’s face. Anderson and Gunner beat Young down after the match when Sting came out for the save.

* Brother Ray and AJ Styles go at it. A Falls Count Anywhere Match between the two is on for Slammiversary.

* Jeff Jarrett and Scott Steiner beat Matt Morgan and Kurt Angle.

* Eric Bischoff and Hulk Hogan come out and read a letter from the network’s lawyers. Hogan announces that Mick Foley has been fired.

Maryse Opens Facebook Page, Update On William Regal, More

8

— Maryse announced this evening on Twitter that she has an official Facebook page. It is located at www.facebook.com/besexymaryseouellet.

The page has been open since 2009, but she changed the URL and plans on being active on it again.

— William Regal, who now reigns as a color commentator on NXT: Redemption, missed last night’s show. Michael Cole filled in for Regal.

Regal forewarned followers on his Twitter account last week that he wouldn’t be back on the site until this Friday, with no reason given. His wife, however tweeted Tuesday that he is in England this week. It is possible that it’s a business trip since his wife’s tweets implied that he isn’t with his family. (Thanks to Jen)

— WWE has posted a job listing for an ‘Archivist’. Responsibilities include: “Plan, establish, and maintain WWE’s repository of items that have enduring historical, aesthetic, and/or nostalgic value. Details are available here.

VIDEO: Ultimate Warrior Calls Out Hulk Hogan

20

Former WWE Champion Ultimate Warrior posted a video this evening calling out Hulk Hogan for censoring fans on Twitter. Some of his followers informed him that they were blocked by Hogan on the micro-blogging site for voicing their opinion. Warrior said,

“Hey Terry! Rumor has it that the Warriors trying to get into your social networking party over there are being shut out. What’s up with that, brotha?! And to think you used to be such the party animal. I mean what’s wrong, you don’t have the guts for the game anymore now that the playing field is level? That’s ashame. I was hoping to come through the front door, get a hug, one of those womanly handshakes. That’s okay, man. Me and the Warriors, we’re going to make our way through the wall! Hahahahahahaha!”

 

Former Diva Battles Super Villains, WWE Live Event Postponed

3

— The first episode of the “Sprinkles” web series starring Shelly Martinez was posted online today. The former WWE Diva appears as a superhero battling evil villains on the beach.

To see the video, click here.

— A SmackDown live event scheduled for this Sunday at the Big Sandy Superstore Arena in Huntington, West Virginia has been moved to Friday, September 16, 2011.

— Reby Sky has pulled out of this weekend’s Dragon Gate USA events in Boston and New York City.

Kharma Blogs About Jim Ross Saying She Was “Too Fat” For WWE

8

Pregnant WWE dvia Kharma has posted a blog in which she discusses her promo from RAW where she said Jim Ross told her a few years ago that she was “too fat” to make it in WWE.

Here’s what Kharma wrote about the situation:

“I’ve been told that a lot of people are taking pot shots at Jim Ross lately.

If @JRsBBQ hadn’t shot from the hip all those years ago, I wouldn’t of had the fire to succeed as much as I did. I wouldn’t of had the strength to sacrifice being with my family, my country, my native tongue to live in Japan for 6 years and learn this craft. I owe Mr. Ross a great gratitude. Not only for setting me on my path to success, but also being there with open arms at the end of my journey and escorting me to the finish line. Many of you may not know this but JR lobbied for my recruitment to WWE. We met at the Cauliflower Alley Club reunion in Las Vegas and I became fast friends with him and his lovely wife. He had heard the noise I was making in the industry and graciously gave me kudos. You never have to worry about where you stand with JR. He’ll give you constructive criticism when you need it and praise when you’ve earned it. He’s no sycophant and that is something to be celebrated. I’m hoping you all send him a thankful salutation, I know I will.”

(Source: kharmageddonblast.blogspot.com)

Ratings Are In For Monday’s WWE RAW & Tough Enough Shows

5

The ratings are in for Monday’s episodes of WWE RAW and Tough Enough.

– Raw did a 3.1 rating, which is down from last week’s 3.4. The did hours of 2.98 and 3.16 and averaged 4.7 million viewers for the 2-hour broadcast.

– Tough Enough did a 1.74 rating (up from last week’s 1.64) and had 2.4 million viewers.

THQ Announces WWE 12: Game Being Shown At E3

6

THQ’s official press release on the new WWE ’12 video game that’s currently in development for a fall release .. Find out which WWE stars will be at the E3 gaming convention to hype the game and much more.

  • Check Out: First Screenshots From The New WWE 12 Video Game

THQ Reveals A Bigger, Badder And Better WWE Videogame Experience With Debut Of WWE® ’12 At Electronic Entertainment Expo

THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) today announced development of WWE ® ’12, the electrifying rebirth of the renowned WWE flagship videogame franchise. Featuring a bigger game, badder presentation and better simulation-based gameplay, WWE ’12 will include long-awaited and critical core gameplay improvements, the most creative and extensive feature set to date and a visceral, edgy and polished presentation. WWE ’12 is currently in development for the Xbox 360 ® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation ®3 computer entertainment system and the Wii ™ system from Nintendo, with a scheduled release timing of November 22, 2011 in North America.

“With vital changes to core gameplay, innovative feature support and an incredibly striking presentation, the WWE simulation experience is back with WWE ’12,” said Danny Bilson, Executive Vice President, Core Games, THQ. “At E3 2011, this is the definitive WWE videogame experience you do not want to miss.”

WWE ’12 will be playable for the first time at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), booth #2001 in the South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center, from June 7-9, 2011. In addition, prominent WWE personalities are slated to attend E3 in support of the new WWE ’12 experience. WWE Superstar Alberto Del Rio ™ and WWE Diva Kelly Kelly ® are currently scheduled to appear on Tuesday, June 7 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., while WWE Superstar The Miz ® is currently scheduled to appear on Wednesday, June 8 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. All talent appearances are subject to change.

About WWE ’12

WWE ’12 will offer players the opportunity to engage in the WWE experience through the new Predator Technology ™ dynamic gameplay system, which is poised to deliver the most fluid, dynamic, authentic and action-packed WWE simulation experience to date. Included are the new Breaking Point submission system, new Attributes and control layout as well as significant improvements to other key gameplay systems, including Momentum and Stamina. WWE Universe Mode 2.0 will generate new and more impactful elements of unpredictability based on player decisions, while dynamic visual changes to gameplay presentation, including new animations, camera positions, lighting and improved rendering, will set the tone for delivering an exceptional simulation of WWE programming.

WWE ’12 will feature the franchise’s best-in-class creation suite, enabling players to develop and customize their own Superstars, entrances, finishing moves, storylines, Highlight Reels and other all-new capabilities to be announced later this year. As well, the popular Road to WrestleMania ® Mode will enable players to explore compelling new storylines and major gameplay improvements. WWE ’12 will also boast one of the largest rosters of WWE Superstars, WWE Divas and WWE Legends in franchise history, including cover Superstar Randy Orton, John Cena, The Miz and the debuting Alberto Del Rio.

For more information about WWE ’12, please visit wwe.thq.com, facebook.com/WWEgames and twitter.com/WWEgames.

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 500 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore 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/.

About THQ Inc.

THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) is a leading worldwide developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software. The company develops its products for all popular game systems, personal computers and wireless devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles County, California, THQ sells product through its global network of offices located throughout North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. More information about THQ and its products may be found at www.thq.com. THQ and the THQ logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of THQ Inc.

Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, the Xbox logos, and the Xbox LIVE logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.

“PlayStation” is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Wii is a trademark of Nintendo.

THQ Forward-Looking Statements: The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the business of THQ Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as “THQ”), including, but not limited to, expectations and projections related to the release and expected features of WWE ’12 are based upon management’s current beliefs and certain assumptions made by management. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, business, competitive, economic, legal, political and technological factors affecting our industry, operations, markets, products or pricing. Readers should carefully review the risk factors and the information that could materially affect THQ’s financial results, described in other documents that THQ files from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal period ended March 31, 2010 and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and particularly the discussion of trends and risk factors set forth therein. Unless otherwise required by law, THQ disclaims any obligation to update its view on any such risks or uncertainties or to revise or publicly release the results of any revision to these forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.

Trademarks: All WWE programming, talent names, images, likenesses, slogans, wrestling moves, trademarks, logos and copyrights are the exclusive property of WWE and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

WWE Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television distribution agreements; the need for continually developing creative and entertaining programming; the continued importance of key performers and the services of Vincent McMahon; the conditions of the markets in which we compete and acceptance of the Company’s brands, media and merchandise within those markets; our exposure to bad debt risk; uncertainties relating to regulatory and litigation matters; risks resulting from the highly competitive nature of our markets; uncertainties associated with international markets; the importance of protecting our intellectual property and complying with the intellectual property rights of others; risks associated with producing and travelling to and from our large live events, both domestically and internationally; the risk of accidents or injuries during our physically demanding events; risks relating to our film business and any new business initiative which we may undertake; risks relating to the large number of shares of common stock controlled by members of the McMahon family and the possibility of the sale of their stock by the McMahons or the perception of the possibility of such sales; the relatively small public float of our stock; and other risks and factors set forth from time to time in Company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results could differ materially from those currently expected or anticipated. In addition, our dividend is dependent on a number of factors, including, among other things, our liquidity and historical and projected cash flow, strategic plan (including alternative uses of capital), our financial results and condition, contractual and legal restrictions on the payment of dividends, general economic and competitive conditions and such other factors as our Board of Directors may consider relevant.

Jim Ross Says He Didn’t Call Kharma “Too Fat”, Warrior-Twitter

7

— Former WWE Champion Ultimate Warrior has launched a Twitter account at twitter.com/ultimatewarrior. The account is listed in the description of the video he posted over the weekend targeting Hulk Hogan.

Warrior’s first tweet was towards Hulk Hogan. He wrote, “@HulkHogan4Real Karma is coming to collect Terry.”

— Jim Ross has updated the Q&A section on his official website with some commentary on Kharma’s claim on RAW that JR told her several years ago that she was “too fat” to be a WWE diva. Ross denies ever used those words when Kharma first tried out for WWE Tough Enough several years ago and wrote:

“Kharma tried out for Tough Enough in Vegas at an open casting call for seemingly hundreds of potential talents. I never told her she was ‘too fat’ but that she was ‘too big’ at that time to be cast in a role that the role’s criteria had been clearly outlined to us.

“People don’t get that pro wrestling shows are entertainment based and facts, situations, etc are often times embellished for entertainment purposes. Those that have lashed out at me have wasted their time denigrating me for something that was not factual and was scripted.

— SmackDown Superstars Tyson Kidd and Natalya are advertised to appear at Fairway Market 699 Canal Street Stamford, Connecticut on Saturday, June 18 beginning at 11:00 a.m. For more information, call 203-388-9815.