Former WWE superstar Rene Dupree, who held WWE gold as part of “La Resistance” tag team, recently spoke to Slam Wrestling about the latest chapter in his career, wrestling in Japan and Europe. Dupree had some very harsh things to say about his time in WWE and Vince McMahon in particular.
“I was miserable the last three years I was in WWE, I was miserable, I hated it, because it’s all politics,” Dupree said. You have to kiss ass. In Japan, all you’ve got to do, is you’ve got to work hard, you’ve got to look good, and that’s it. And that’s what wrestling is all about. It’s about the performance. It’s not about how big you are, or how good of a promo you can cut. It’s about if you can deliver in the ring.”
Rene Dupree has dramatically changed his look since we last saw him in WWE. He’s now sporting a goatee and is covered in tattoos on his chest, arms, shoulder and back.
“I’ve always wanted tattoos, ever since I was a little kid. Mind you, when I was 18 and I signed with WWE, and they had a strict policy, ‘Oh no, you can’t have tattoos without permission. Oh no, you can’t do this, you can’t do that.’ Basically, when you sign a contract with WWE, you sell your soul. You can’t take a sh*t without asking their permission. That’s the bottom line, that’s the truth. The hell with that shit. No. Here in Japan, I get a new tattoo, and the boys are like, ‘Oh, sugoi (which means awesome), new tattoo.'”
He also had some choice words for Vince McMahon.
“I don’t care how much money Vince McMahon has, Vince McMahon put my father out of business, for a lot of people. That was a very, very hard time in my life. That is very hard to forgive, very hard to forgive.”
Check out this (pretty shocking) “then” and “now” picture of Rene Dupree:
We’ve got an update on the Undertaker following his return to WWEÂ at Sunday’s SummerSlam pay-per-view.
Many readers who saw the Undertaker’s return at SummerSlam noted that the Dead Man seemed to be out of shape and less muscular than the last time we saw him. SEScoops can confirm that the Undertaker received medical clearance to get back in the gym just a few weeks ago, which explains that. Taker has been nursing a broken orbital bone, among other injuries. He was still experiencing vision problems as recently as last month but is expected to fully recover from the vision problems. He also suffered a concussion in the match where Rey Mysterio broke his orbital bone.
Undertaker will be feuding with Kane over the World Heavyweight title over the next few months, with current plans calling for matches at Night of Champions in September as well as Hell in a Cell in October. The first Undertaker vs. Kane match (of this chapter of their feud) has been booked for WWE’s return to Madision Square Garden on September 25th.
Here’s the updated card for the 9/25 MSG show:
Kane vs. Undertaker for the World Title
Bret Hart and The Hart Dynasty vs. Nexus
Christian vs. Matt Hardy vs. Dolph Ziggler for the IC Title
Big Show vs. Jack Swagger
CM Punk vs. Kofi Kingston
MVP vs. Cody Rhodes
Kelly Kelly & Rosa vs. Michelle McCool & Layla.
Other names scheduled include Alberto Del Rio, Chavo Guerrero, Chris Masters, Drew McIntyre and Teddy Long.
– “Showtime†Percy Watson and Husky Harris were eliminated on NXT this week. Remaining are Michael McGillicutty, Alex Riley and Kaval, all of whom have been viewed as the ‘favorites’ for several weeks.
-WWE is taping next week’s Smackdown television show tonight in Fresno, California at the Save Mart Center. The dark match main event is once again Kane vs. Jack Swagger vs. Rey Mysterio in a Triple Threat cage match for the World Hvt. Championship.
– The WWE Raw crew will be in Honolulu, Hawaii tonight for a house show event. No matches are announced for the live event, but John Cena and Sheamus are advertised to appear.
– Last week’s episode of WWE Smackdown did a 1.6 broadcast rating and averaged 2,686,000 viewers.
– Luke Gallows wrote on Twitter yesterday that CM Punk will not Tweet anything until he has one million followers. Punk’s Twitter page “2ndcitysavior” only has around 8,400 followers, so don’t expect to hear from the Straight Edge Society leader any time soon.
THQ sent out a press release this week announcing several new features for this year’s installment of the WWE SmackDown vs. RAW video game franchise. SvR2011 is due out on October 26th.
THQ Announces Additional Key Features and Franchise Updates for WWE(R) SmackDown(R) vs. Raw(R) 2011
Simulation-Based Cornerstone of the Company’s WWE Videogame Portfolio Set to Deliver Destiny-Defining Moments, Best-in-Class Creation Tools and Ultimate Virtual Control of WWE
AGOURA HILLS, Calif., Aug 18, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — THQ Inc. today announced new gameplay details surrounding WWE(R) SmackDown(R) vs. Raw(R) 2011, the renowned simulation-based experience in the company’s World Wrestling Entertainment(R) videogame portfolio. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 will return to action with destiny-defining moments, best-in-class creation tools and the ability for players to have ultimate virtual control of WWE. The game is currently in development for the Xbox 360(R) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation(R)3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system and the Wii(TM) system from Nintendo, with a scheduled release date of October 26, 2010.
“WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 is on track to deliver the most incredible WWE simulation experience to date in our storied franchise,” said Danny Bilson, Executive Vice President, Core Games, THQ. “This year’s game will offer players a variety of intuitive new gameplay features, impactful upgrades, industry-leading creation and customization tools, as well as unparalleled freedom to experience their own virtual WWE moments in line with those seen weekly in WWE.”
Here are some screenshots from IGN.com:
About WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011
Having shipped more than 50 million units worldwide, the renowned WWE simulation experience and annual centerpiece in THQ’s expanding WWE videogame portfolio returns to define players’ ultimate WWE moments and give players even greater creative and decision-making freedom throughout their storied journeys within WWE.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 will empower players more than ever to define their gameplay experiences in a dynamic and ever-changing WWE. In WWE Universe Mode, a new addition to the franchise, gameplay scenarios will change based on player decisions, allowing for new rivalries, alliances, championship matches and more spontaneous WWE action in and out of the ring. Additionally, the popular, story-driven Road to WrestleMania(R) mode will return with significant updates and new storylines, including the ability to freely roam through locker room areas, select opponents, break into impromptu matches and fulfill destinies based on player choices.
A hallmark of the franchise, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 will deliver its largest offering to date of best-in-class creation and customization features. Players will have more creative tools than ever to customize their created Superstars, finishing moves, story designs, paint tool creations and more. Searching and sharing content will be greatly simplified through improvements to the highly regarded WWE Community Creations feature, which generated nearly 10 million downloads in its franchise debut.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 will also boast one of the largest rosters in franchise history with more than 70 of today’s prominent WWE Superstars and WWE Divas. Each in-game model will feature new skin textures and movement technology, delivering the most authentic looking and moving WWE Superstars and WWE Divas ever seen in a WWE videogame. In addition, players will round out their virtual WWE experience with more than 100 match types, including Tables, Ladders & Chairs (TLC), Hell in a Cell and Money in the Bank, as well as an extensive number of new playable arenas. A brand new physics system will ensure all matches and object interactions look and feel unique, dynamic and unpredictable to capture the full essence and authenticity of WWE.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 will also boast the franchise’s largest online feature set to date, including a robust downloadable content (DLC) plan slated to include playable WWE Superstars, WWE Divas, alternate ring gear and new arenas. Online access and the game’s first DLC package, which is scheduled to include WWE Superstar Chris Masters(R) (playable character), WWE Superstar Rey Mysterio(R) (“Dia de los Muertos” Halloween-themed attire) and WWE Diva Kelly Kelly(R) (“Devil” Halloween-themed attire), will be free of charge with the videogame through a back of manual code for first-time purchasers. Second-time buyers can also purchase the content via Xbox LIVE(R) Marketplace for Xbox 360 at an anticipated cost of 800 Microsoft Points, as well as on PlayStation(R)Network for an anticipated cost of $9.99. Additional DLC packages, as well as their suggested price points, will be revealed later this year.
For more information on WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011, please visit wwe.thq.com, facebook.com/WWEgames and twitter.com/WWEgames.
About World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company , 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, PG content across all of its platforms including television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing. 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, Chicago, London, Shanghai, Tokyo and Toronto. Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. /quotes/comstock/13*!wwe/quotes/nls/wwe (WWE 14.02, -0.02, -0.14%) can be found at corporate.wwe.com. For information on global activities, go to https://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.
About THQ Inc.
THQ Inc. 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 registered 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 features of the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 videogame, and 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 Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal period ended March 31, 2010, and particularly the discussion of 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, copyrights and logos are the exclusive property of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. 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 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; acceptance of the Company’s brands, media and merchandise within those markets; uncertainties relating to regulatory and litigation matters; risks resulting from the highly competitive nature of our markets; the importance of protecting our intellectual property and complying with the intellectual property rights of others; risks associated with producing live events both domestically and internationally; uncertainties associated with international markets; 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 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 significant and 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, including a waiver by the McMahon family of a portion of the dividends.
In his latest blog update, WWE superstar Daniel Bryan discusses his surprise return to WWE at SummerSlam.
“Even though I love the independent scene, being the surprise 7th member of Team WWE at SummerSlam was by far the biggest opportunity of my career. Coming out in the Staples Center and walking past The Miz to go fight with Nexus was an amazing experience and something I’ll never forget. And though I always feel I can do better, I was thrilled to be able to tap out two Nexus members before I was eliminated.â€
He continued:
“I know I still have a long way to go to reach my dream and I still have many naysayers (mainly The Miz and Michael Cole, but there are others), but I’m thankful for all of you who have had my back during an uncertain period in my life. The WWE Universe is unreal and I will work my hardest to try to entertain some of the most loyal people on the planet. See you at the arenas!”
Daniel Bryan also urged fans to support their local independent wrestling promotions, where you can see the Superstars of tomorrow learning their craft.
Daniel Bryan will begin working RAW live events on August 28th in Wildwood, New Jersey in a match with John Cena and Chris Jericho vs. Nexus. He was originally booked for a NYWC independent show on that date in Long Island, New York. Before returning to WWE at SummerSlam, Bryan had been booked for several independent shows in the coming weeks. He will be fulfilling the obligations that do not conflict with his new WWE schedule, but won’t make that NYWC show.
Bryan has changed his Twitter name once again to Twitter.com/WWEDanielBryan.
While it seems a bit morbid to think this way, many wrestling and political analysts have questioned how Lance Cade’s death last week might effect the United States Senate campaign of former WWE CEO Linda McMahon.
According to The Connecticut Post newspaper, Linda McMahon was quick to distance herself from the tragedy.
McMahon told reporters, “I might have met him once.â€
Linda said WWE can no more be held accountable for deaths of talents “than a studio could have prevented Heath Ledger’s death.â€
“Who knows what causes people to have addictions and do what they do?†she said.
What do you guys think? Will Lance Cade death affect Linda’s campaign in any way? Should it?
The fine folks at SEScoops have dug deep into their pockets and purchased their very own MAILBAG! There’s just one problem — this big ‘ol sack is sitting here in front of us and it’s empty. That’s where you guys come in … send in your wrestling and MMA-related questions to [email protected] and each week, we’ll pick a whole bunch to answer right here on the website!
Got a question about something that happened on Raw last night? How about that WCW pay-per-view from 15 years ago? Whatever your question is, send it to us at [email protected] and we’ll do our best to answer it right here for all the world to see!
– As we reported here last week, Rob Van Dam will be taking some time off from TNA due to the company using up most of his contracted appearances. It’s worth noting that RVD is still advertised for the September 23rd TNA house show event in New York City’s Hammerstein Ballroom. Aside from that show, RVD is not booked for any other live events or television tapings.
– After being kept of television for a few weeks following a recent backstage blowup a TNA iMPACT! taping, Samoa Joe is set to return to TNA at Monday’s iMPACT! tapings. Joe was sent home several weeks ago after going on rampage backstage at an iMPACT! taping. Joe reportedly flipped out after Jeremy Borash announced that there was 30 seconds remaining in his match with Jeff Hardy. The match ended in a time limit draw and Joe felt the “time remaining” announcement gave away the finish for the match. (Source: PWInsider.com)
– WWE announcer and ECW original Joey Styles was recently asked his thoughts on TNA’s Whole F’N Show edition of iMPACT. Styles said:
“I watched the Whole F’N show highlights online. I’ve seen wood chipper victims who were less of a mess than RVD. Who books that crap?â€
– Here’s a video preview for Thursday’s TNA iMPACT!:
– WWE will tape this week’s SmackDown and shoot tonight’s NXT live from the Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield, California.
Confirmed for tonight’s NXT is two Rookie eliminations.
No matches have been announced for SmackDown yet but the Undertaker will be appearing on the show and Kane vs. Jack Swagger vs. Rey Mysterio in a steel cage is being advertised locally as the dark match main event.
– Celebrities at last night’s RAW included Joe Manganiello from True Blood, actor Raini Rodriguez and Jon Lovitz.
– Former WWE announcer Lauren C. Mayhew, who worked for the company briefly in 2009, was visiting friends at last night’s RAW in Los Angeles.
– The new issue of FHM in the UK has a story on Steve Austin. He says that he wants to do more action movies but would also like to try his hand at comedies. He also said he had a PhD in his other job and is looking to get to that level in his new one, but isn’t there yet. Regarding the talent level in wrestling today, he says it is fine but there is nowhere to go and learn.
– Announced for WWE’s Supershow on October 23rd in Winnipeg, Manitoba is Edge vs. Sheamus for the WWE Title, Kane vs. Big Show for the World Title and Nexus vs. Rey Mysterio & Randy Orton.
– Beth Phoenix will be appearing at the WWE developmental show on Friday, August 20th in Plant City, Florida. The main event that night will be a Texas Bull Rope match. Beth will also be appearing at the FCW show on August 18th.
– The dark main event after last night’s RAW tapings in Los Angeles saw John Cena win a battle royal with Nexus, Team RAW and Team SmackDown. RAW and SmackDown eliminated Nexus first and the final three were CM Punk, Edge and John Cena. Punk threw out Edge and Cena eliminated Punk to win.
– For what it’s worth, WWE Magazine is currently running a poll on Twitter asking fans which pay-per-view they would like to see return. The options are King of the Ring, War Games, Halloween Havoc and “Other.â€
On a related note, WWE is currently running a poll on their website asking fans what their opinions are on triple threat matches.
– WWE has once again added Daniel Bryan to the RAW roster page. Despite being kicked out of Nexus last night, Darren Young is still listed on the RAW roster.
– John Cena will be signing copies of his Legendary DVD on Sunday, October 3rd at Blockbuster in Dallas, Texas on Greenville Avenue. Cena will appear from 11am until 1pm.
Warning: The following contains a *Spoiler* for next week’s RAW:
It was announced at Monday’s RAW tapings for next week that the WWE Title will be defended in a Six Pack Challenge at September’s Night of Champions pay-per-view.
The match will be WWE Champion Sheamus vs. Wade Barrett vs. Randy Orton vs. Chris Jericho vs. John Cena vs. Edge.
Here’s the official event synopsis from PPV provider iNDEMAND:
“On Sunday, September 19th, WWE brings you the one night of the year when every championship is on the line! Don¹t miss John Cena, Sheamus, Kofi Kingston, R-Truth, Randy Orton, Edge, Rey Mysterio, and all your favorite WWE Superstars as they battle for championship gold! Don’t miss “WWE: Night of Champions†on Sunday, September 19th, live on Pay-Per-View!â€
WWE has done away with the Unified Tag Team Titles and has introduced a new set of WWE Tag Team Titles after using the previous belt design for over 20 years.
On RAW, Bret Hart presented The Hart Dynasty with new belts. Tag team champions will no longer carry around 2 sets of titles.
— Matt Hardy noted on his Twitter account on Saturday that he will likely be taking some time away from the squared circle as a result of WWE’s ‘stringent health and wellness policies’.
“Thx 4 everyone who has been concerned about my foot being jammed between the steel steps,” Hardy wrote. “It was bad-it felt like my foot was bein cut off. Didn’t plan to take my boot off, but I had to immediately see how bad my foot was injured. Keep in mind, it bled thru my sock & ankle tape.
“I will most likely have to miss some ring time due to WWE’s stringent health & wellness policies. I’m sorry if I do guys & gals.”
— New Jersey based promotion Pro Wrestling Syndicate issued the following statement concerning former WWE performer Scott Hall:
Scott Hall was booked as our Guest Commissioner for this Sunday’s Pro Wrestling Syndicate event in Fairfield, Connecticut.
I just received a phone call from Hall’s booking agent Lenny informing me that Hall has been sent to a 50 day mandatory rehab facility in Texas by his probation officer. I am being told that the WWE is funding Hall’s rehab.
That being said, Scott Hall will not be appearing at PWS this Sunday or at any of his other scheduled bookings this weekend which includes a wrestling show in Brooklyn and several autograph signings.
WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog at JRsBarBQ.com with his thoughts on last night’s SummerSlam pay-per-view. Here are some highlights of what JR said about:
Daniel Bryan’s Return: “The return of Daniel Bryan was both a shocker and a very pleasant development on the PPV. The much traveled and highly skilled veteran made an impact on his few weeks of TV time prior to his release from the company. The MMA aficionado showed definitive signs of brilliance during his in ring time at Summer Slam. A very strategic maneuver by WWE to bring Bryan back into the fold and I’m anxious to see how Bryan evolves.”
The Undertaker’s Return: “The return of the Undertaker was a boost to the PPV. The Undertaker is one of the few, long term, incumbent stars WWE has on its roster and whenever the ‘Deadman’ is on a show it is a plus in my eyes as it relates to legit, ‘star power.'”
Bret Hart’s In-Ring Work:“Bret Hart kicking it up a notch was an eye opener. I don’t ever expect to see Bret on the road much or even back in the ring as a wrestler that often but what I saw in Los Angeles Sunday night really surprised me and in a very favorable way. Bret’s physicality and spring in his step was surprisingly good and I really enjoyed his time in the ring.”
Nexus: “Nexus is still extremely relevant in my eyes contrary to what some fans have said in emails to this site. Too many people are taking for granted the fact that these 7 are essentially rookies in WWE, have miles to travel before they sleep….as main event stars, and were placed into an extraordinary position being thrust into the main event at Summer Slam. I did think that Nexus would pull it out and upset Team WWE going into the show. I was wrong. But I do think that this faction has healthy ‘legs’ and can do just fine going forward. It’s easy for any of us to be a Monday morning quarterback but I like what Nexus has represented thus far and their upside. Nexus is in a marathon and not a sprint as the process to achieve resident, main event status still remains a multi year procedure.”
Visit JRsBarBQ.com for Jim Ross’ full blog and his great line of BBQ products.
Solomonster gives a complete review of Summerslam (with an infuriating finish), thoughts on the death of Lance Cade, Tiffany suspended by WWE, Adam Pearce fired as ROH booker, thoughts on TNA Impact/Reaction, a review of The Expendables and A SONG!!!
In an interview with MMA Hour Live, Paul Heyman talked about the possibility of working with TNA Wrestling:
“They’re not ready for me. They’re not there yet. I kind of have self-justified my own interest in TNA as a network of stock and ownership. I left pro wrestling in December 2006 and I haven’t done one shoot DVD, one convention appearance, one cameo. I haven’t done anything on wrestling.”
Heyman confirmed that TNA has reached out to him many times in the last year but he didn’t take it seriously until Dixie Carter contacted him and offered him potential ownership points and stock, as well as potential side projects with Spike TV. He concluded though that they weren’t ready for his ideas, particularly using things from MMA to influence wrestling. He also said that TNA is not looking long term and only wants short term solutions and that they don’t have their own vision for what they want to be.
Heyman added that he would get rid of everyone over 40 in TNA if he was in charge, saying their place is to be used for promotional events, autograph signings, and video games, but not as the core, noting that TNA’s focus seems to be on former ECW guys in their 40s, Hulk Hogan, and Ric Flair.
“If you were over 40, I’d chop your f***ing head off. I want a guy who is entering the prime of his career and shape him and mold him.”
“Imagine if all they did the entire show was promote the Beer Money vs. Motor City Machineguns match and had Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan and the ECW guys saying they needed to see that match and said these guys are the future now. Then, if you put that match in the main event – as opposed to the middle of the card with no follow-up – and produce and present them as the main event. Then, if ‘you buy this product, this is the progressive type of presentation we are going to present to you.’ Instead, you have Hulk Hogan in his 50s thanking ECW guys in their 40s before the ECW guys are beat up by a group led by Ric Flair in his 60s.”
– New WWE Divas champion Melina, who just returned from injury, had a scare last night at SummerSlam where it appeared she had injured her knee. She wrote on Twitter today:
“Im still overwhelmed. Reading all these tweets from all of u. Thank u! U guys r the best. My knee is ok. Just a tweak. Thank U 4 ur concern.”
– TMZ.com caught up with Triple H over the weekend in Los Angeles at an event for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, which he is now working with. Triple H told TMZ that back in 2005 when WWE was overseas in England, the WWE crew got into a big brawl with a group of drunken kickboxers. Triple H says when the WWE superstars got back to their hotel, the kickboxers were waiting for them and wanted to fight. Local newspapers reported on the story in the days after the incident and wrote that the WWE superstars destroyed the kickboxers – which Triple H says is absolutely true.
– WWE sent out the following press release on Monday announcing that it has teamed up with Burger King for an in-restaurant promotion, beginning Monday, August 23 through Sunday, September 12 in close to 10,000 Burger King locations across the world. Triple H, John Cena and the Undertaker will be featured on more than five million exclusive Superstar plush toys inside BK(R) Kids Meals.
“WWE is very excited to team with BURGER KING, a globally recognized brand that reaches millions around the world,” said Michelle D. Wilson, WWE Executive Vice President, Marketing. “WWE’s family-friendly product, which is seen in 145 countries, is a great fit with the BURGER KING brand.”
Ring of Honor star Adam Pierce sent out the following statement on Monday, confirming that he is indeed stepping down as the head booker of ROH:
Oil and water don’t mix.
Cary Silkin gave me the chance to live a lifelong dream two years ago, and I will forever be grateful to him for having the faith in me to give me that opportunity. I’ve never had a better boss, probably never will, and I’m glad to be able to call him my friend. I’ve certainly never met a more generous person, and I wish him personally nothing but the prosperity that I believe he deserves.
Ring of Honor has always represented to me what the “future†of professional wrestling could be, and it is my sincere hope that through the continued tremendous partnership with HDNet that that “future†may one day be realized.
I have never been more proud to be part of a locker room, and I want to publicly thank each and every member of the ROH roster, contracted and otherwise, for working so hard with me to make this year a huge creative success. You all allowed me to grow into a position that I was unqualified for, stayed with me every step of the way – low and high, and at the end of the day made the stories in my head come to life better than anyone else ever could have. You are the most creative and hardest working locker room in the industry, and you all deserve more than what is available to you now. I’m happy to have spoken to all of you in the last 24 hours or so, and I terribly wish that I was going to be with you all at TV this weekend.
I want to publicly acknowledge and applaud the efforts of David Lagana, who in my opinion deserves more credit and praise for his contributions to the company than he has ever received, and it is my hope that he continues to work with HDNet to produce the television product that he and I have worked so hard on since it began. I give thanks to Adam Swift and Andrew Simon at HDNet for their network support during my tenure, as well as to Scott Ferrier and Andy Edwards – the unknown magicians that make our TV world go ‘round. Thanks to all of our camera and lighting crews and everyone else that brought ROH to the television stage. I will always appreciate the hard work you’ve done and what you’ve all made possible for me.
So many people deserve thanks now that this chapter of my life has come to an end. Guys like Chris Maurer for all of his work on the creative end of things. His written word helped to bring my stories to life, and his hard work in so many of the ‘not-so-glamorous’ areas of the company need to be acknowledged. Bobby Cruise is more important to the ROH production than anyone really knows and I thank him for being my ‘right hand man’. Wayne Fitzgerald and Mary Gage deserve credit for their stalwart efforts, making the music and lights do what we need. Thank you both.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t publicly thank Jimmy Cornette for being the best mentor I could have ever asked for, and an even better friend. If any man could have upstaged me and went over my head to do things his way, it was him, but to his credit he NEVER once did. He stood by me and allowed me to be the boss, for better or worse, and I’ll always remember that. I hope he can be the same for Delirious, who now finds himself in that very scary and exciting spot. I wish them both nothing but the best; I’m sure we’ll cross paths again.
I’ve loved nearly every single second of my time with Ring of Honor, regardless of the capacity. Perhaps one day I’ll be back again. But if not, I am humbled and appreciate all that my time in the company has taught and afforded me.
The wrestling in Ring of Honor always has been (and in my opinion, always will be) second to none, and if/when the end truly does come for the company, the wrestling won’t be the reason why. The way I see it there are two sides to the Ring of Honor coin: The ‘creative/in-ring’ side, and the ‘business’ side.
The ‘water’ and the ‘oil’.
No matter how long and no matter whom does the stirring, they don’t ever seem to truly mix the right way.
— Scotland based newspaper The Sunday Mail ran a piece on Tiffany’s arrest last week in Los Angeles, California following a domestic incident involving husband and fellow WWE performer Drew McIntyre at their hotel on August 8.
Regarding the incident, McIntyre said it was a “complete misunderstanding.” He added, I can’t say anything else until it’s cleared up, which will be very soon.”
— WWE’s upcoming DVD set on John Cena has been titled The John Cena Experience
. The three-disc set will be released on Nov. 16.
— The official WWE website has deleted the article prematurely announcing Daniel Bryan’s surprise appearance at SummerSlam.
Ring of Honor owner Cary Silkin fired head booker Adam Pearce Sunday.
It has been confirmed that wrestler Delirious (Hunter Johnson), with heavy input from Jim Cornette, will be handling the company’s booking going forward. The masked grappler also reigns as head trainer at the company’s wrestling academy in Pennsylvania.
Pearce had been ROH’s head booker since the departure of Gabe Sapolsky in October 2008.
WWE Diva Tiffany and Drew McIntyre were partying at the Midsummers Eve Party at the Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles last Saturday night before their argument at a Los Angeles hotel that led to Tiffany being arrested and later suspended by the company. Tiffany was hanging out with Playboy Playmate Roxanne Dawn.
The belief is that WWE won’t bring back Tiffany as long as her legal charges are hanging over her heard. Tiffany’s attorney has told WWE officials that he will get her off.
Here’s a picture of Tiffany partying at the Playboy mansion just hours before the domestic disturbance incident:
– Some of the celebrities at WWE’s SummerSlam Kickoff party this weekend included Lou Ferrigno, Verne Troyer, Lauren Storm, Joe Manganiello of True Blood fame, former RAW host Clark Duke, Carmen Electra and Booboo Stewart of Twilight fame, who is also a TNA website columnist. Rapper and producer Jermaine Dupri was the DJ for the party.
– WWE was taking signs from fans as they entered the Staples Center for last night’s SummerSlam event. WWE usually takes signs before the show goes on the air in the crowd. WWE confiscated all Daniel Bryan or Bryan Danielson signs and had pre-made signs to give to fans in exchange for any signs they had that WWE didn’t want in the crowd. Fans noted that there was a big stack of Daniel Bryan signs that were taken at the door.
– According to our sources, the decision to bring Daniel Bryan back for SummerSlam was made a few days ago. The talk backstage last night is that Bryan will get a United States Title shot against The Miz at WWE’s Night of Champions pay-per-view.
– As of Monday morning, Daniel Bryan is the 6th most searched term on Google.com. (Google’s Hot Trends)
– Former WWE Diva Candice Michelle was backstage at SummerSlam visiting friends.
Tonight’s episode of WWE RAW takes place from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.
Due to the fact that the WWE crew will be overseas in Japan next week for a live events tour, the company will tape next week’s episode of RAW after tonight’s show goes off the air.
While no matches have been announced for tonight’s RAW, NXT Season 2 rookie Alex Riley will be appearing tonight after winning a challenge on last week’s NXT episode.
We’ll likely get plenty of fallout from SummerSlam as well as some build towards WWE’s next pay-per-view event, Night of Champions on September 19.
There’s a big 21-man battle royal being advertised locally as the dark match main event. The battle royal will feature the “Top 7 RAW Superstars,” the “Top 7 SmackDown Superstars” as well as the Nexus crew. The SmackDown stars being advertised include Big Show, Jack Swagger, Kane and CM Punk.
The official WWE website spoiled a surprise set for tonight’s SummerSlam pay-per-view event as an article titled “Daniel Bryan Returns at Summerslam!” was posted before the NXT season one rookie’s return took place.
Here is the article in its entirety:
Daniel Bryan returns!
Written: August 15, 2010
LOS ANGELES – The Miz really milked it. The United States Champion and Mr. Money in the Bank thought that he had Team WWE by the short and curlies. Before the 7-on-7 Tag Team Elimination Match, Miz even insisted on John Cena and Bret Hart begging him to join them.
While Cena did appear on the TitanTron to address Miz, he wasn’t there to stroke The Cleveland Screamer’s ego. Instead, he informed the entire WWE Universe that Team WWE’s seventh man would be none other than a former member of The Nexus, Daniel Bryan.
A humiliated Miz, Bryan’s former WWE Pro on season one of WWE NXT, went apoplectic at being slighted and let everyone within earshot know of his dissatisfaction. As for Bryan, he had one word to describe the development: Awesome
– The dark match before WWE SummerSlam in Los Angeles saw Evan Bourne defeat Zack Ryder with Air Bourne.
– Melina is the new WWE Divas Champion after defeating Alicia Fox at SummerSlam.
– Daniel Bryan made his return at SummerSlam, being the seventh member of Team RAW in the main event. Bryan replaced The Miz, who said earlier that he would join the team. Bryan was the last RAW member before Cena to be eliminated after Miz interfered in the match.
WWE did the best they could in keeping his return a surprise. Several people who were backstage at SummerSlam all afternoon had no idea Bryan was even there until he showed up. The first word about Bryan being there leaked around 8pm EST.
WWE has added Bryan back on the RAW roster so it looks like he’s back full-time now. Shortly after his appearance, the name “Bryan Danielson” was one of the top trending topics on Twitter.
