WWE Hall Of Fame Inductees for 2009 Include:
"Stone Cold" Steve Austin
Terry Funk
Dory Funk Jr
Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat
Jake "The Snake" Roberts
Randy "Macho Man" Savage
Von Erich Family
Gary Hart
More names soon
Website
WWE Hall Of Fame
Sunday, February 15, 2009
“Stone Cold” Steve Austin™ ToO Be In WWE ® Hall Of Fame
January 13, 2009
STAMFORD, CONN., January 13, 2009 – World Wrestling Entertainment® announced today that the most popular Superstar in the history of the WWE, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, will be inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place on April 4th at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas during the weekend of the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania.
“Stone Cold” Steve Austin, the man who revolutionized an industry, holds every all-time WWE record, including live attendance, Pay-Per-View buys, licensing and merchandise.
Tickets go on sale for the Hall of Fame Ceremony this Saturday, January 17th and are available through: http://www.houstontoyotacenter.com, the Toyota Center Box Office, or by calling 1-866-4HOUTIX.
Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment Inc (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide
Media Man Australia Profiles
“Stone Cold” Steve Austin
WWE
January 13, 2009
STAMFORD, CONN., January 13, 2009 – World Wrestling Entertainment® announced today that the most popular Superstar in the history of the WWE, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, will be inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place on April 4th at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas during the weekend of the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania.
“Stone Cold” Steve Austin, the man who revolutionized an industry, holds every all-time WWE record, including live attendance, Pay-Per-View buys, licensing and merchandise.
Tickets go on sale for the Hall of Fame Ceremony this Saturday, January 17th and are available through: http://www.houstontoyotacenter.com, the Toyota Center Box Office, or by calling 1-866-4HOUTIX.
Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment Inc (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide
Media Man Australia Profiles
“Stone Cold” Steve Austin
WWE
Sunday, February 01, 2009
WWE News: JBL describes his biggest fear of ending up broke, like in "The Wrestler", By James Caldwell, PWTorch.com assistant editor
In the current U.S. economic situation, diversifying where the money is coming from and where investment money is going is very important to maintain a healthy financial position.
Eventually we'll see how WWE's incoming revenue and outgoing investments fared in the fourth quarter 2008 and overall year, as the company is delayed in announcing revenue results for last quarter, but WWE Raw star JBL is taking the "diversification" route very seriously.
He reveals in his latest WWE Universe blog that it's partly out of fear for ending up broke, with real-life imitating art through the Shawn Michaels employment storyline.
JBL has diversified his income sources through the creation of Layfield Energy to distribute energy-related products in case the WWE career and financial analyst positions fall through. Yet, he remains haunted by a fear in the wrestling aspect of his job aspirations.
"My biggest fear is to end up broke," JBL said on WWE Universe. "I once saw an old wrestler who had made a lot of money working as the ground keeper at a Red Roof in Charlotte - that has haunted me to this day."
JBL points to his age as one reason why recently watching "The Wrestler" movie "scares me." Motivated partially by fear, JBL doesn't want end up like some of his peers.
"It's one reason I work so hard to not be him," JBL said. "Because there are a lot of guys who have made a lot of money who have ended up broke, and that is very sad."
Link: JBL blog on WWE Universe.
Caldwell's Analysis: It's tough to thrive in the current economic environment because it's easy to live in a state of fear about job security, not only in WWE, but in real-world jobs where valued workers are actually called employees, not bogus independent contractors. Every day, I hear about a friend who's living in fear of losing his or her job, or recently was laid off. I'm sure many of you Torch readers have experienced someone close being in that situation.
It's certainly not a WWE-only thing, but many wrestlers are considered to be paranoid by nature because they're competing for TV spots and PPV headlining-matches in a very subjective environment of deciding who gets those spots. So, when you see a wrestler protect his body in the ring or wrestle a soft match, don't think it's because the wrestler is trying to cheat the fans, but because he has to protect his investment on a constant basis, especially with WWE releasing talent left and right.
Which brings me to another point on the ultimate oxymoron in the world of an "independent contractor being released." How does someone who's considered "independent" of a company become released? WWE doesn't have any right to "release" someone, when the contractor - in the spirit of the law - should control the work he or she is to perform. It's completely ludicrous. End Rant.
Greg Tingle comment...
All respect to JBL for speaking on these things. My late father, who was mates (and workmates) with a few of the Australian pro wrestlers in the 1980s, thanks to the truck driving profession (where a few of the pro wrestlers got their real pay days) told me.. "balance is the key". I'm not certain the term had been coined back then, but he meant Mind, Body and Spirit. We said along the lines of "work on the body and work on the mind, and work hard".
It's in the best interests of the wrestlers (and their loved ones) that they do prepare for rainy day. As we know, the WWE business model can only allow for a certain amount of workers to be on the books at any one time. It's great the pro wrestling can offer huge exposure via the audience and to network big wigs and the like. Standing out from the pack and being very good or excellent at something else has proven to be a largely successful formula. The best wrestlers are usually very good actors, and they take that mainstream, sometimes with assistance from WWE Studios, sometimes in non WWE productions.
Wrestlers doing MMA, indy productions and "shoot interviews" has mixed results for their career path.
The bottom line is that the pro wrestler needs to do their best, in and out of the ring, to help ensure their livelihood for the day that they hang up their tights and are no longer wanted or needed by the world's top and highest paying pro wrestling promotions. The worker needs to protect their best interests, and that includes taking calculated risks and putting on the best show possible, that both promoter and fans will be happy with, but not killing themselves by getting banged up too badly in the progress.
Next time you think about giving a star rating to a pro wrestling match, think outside the square and take into consideration that the wrestler may be pacing themselves or be in the middle of a hectic travel schedule, or even be in great pain.
JBL's holistic approach - wrestling, financials, private business, commentating and the spot of writing, and intelligent choice of life and business partners, appears to be very sound, and would appear to be a good model for other pro wrestlers to follow. Of course, most pro wrestlers haven't got their pro wrestling to JBL's stage, but it sure the hell is something to aspire to.
I witnessed JBL wrestle in person at a roughhouse wrestling venue in Germany approx 15 years ago, and I had no idea he would make it as big as he has. Nothing stays the same forever... careers go in cycles - up and down. JBL was putting the work in way back then, and I had no idea that he was heading for greatness, but he sure worked hard in the match. JBL must have had a plan and a vision, and he knew where was heading - to the top of one of the the professions in the world.
Disclaimer: I joined JBL's Layfield Energy b2b program as a both a mark of respect and support for wrestlers who can see beyond the flashy lights and body slamming. Our website already has WWE, MBS and JBL content, and attracts over 1 million hits per month, so it was a perfect fit. If it makes some good money for me, that's a bonus, but I did as respect and to support JBL's smarts, guts and leadership. It's great to see that more pro wrestlers and starting to "get it", and much like (some) Australian NRL (National Rugby League) players and clubs, are taking steps to plan for the future, for when their bodies or desire won't be up to being just that "slice of meat" that the promoters hired them to be. The business needs more JBL's, and I would think the McMahon and other top promoters would be supportive. It also helps protect their investment and reputations. Here's to success on all levels.
(Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
John Bradshaw Layfield
Layfield's Energy
Wrestling
The Wrestler
In the current U.S. economic situation, diversifying where the money is coming from and where investment money is going is very important to maintain a healthy financial position.
Eventually we'll see how WWE's incoming revenue and outgoing investments fared in the fourth quarter 2008 and overall year, as the company is delayed in announcing revenue results for last quarter, but WWE Raw star JBL is taking the "diversification" route very seriously.
He reveals in his latest WWE Universe blog that it's partly out of fear for ending up broke, with real-life imitating art through the Shawn Michaels employment storyline.
JBL has diversified his income sources through the creation of Layfield Energy to distribute energy-related products in case the WWE career and financial analyst positions fall through. Yet, he remains haunted by a fear in the wrestling aspect of his job aspirations.
"My biggest fear is to end up broke," JBL said on WWE Universe. "I once saw an old wrestler who had made a lot of money working as the ground keeper at a Red Roof in Charlotte - that has haunted me to this day."
JBL points to his age as one reason why recently watching "The Wrestler" movie "scares me." Motivated partially by fear, JBL doesn't want end up like some of his peers.
"It's one reason I work so hard to not be him," JBL said. "Because there are a lot of guys who have made a lot of money who have ended up broke, and that is very sad."
Link: JBL blog on WWE Universe.
Caldwell's Analysis: It's tough to thrive in the current economic environment because it's easy to live in a state of fear about job security, not only in WWE, but in real-world jobs where valued workers are actually called employees, not bogus independent contractors. Every day, I hear about a friend who's living in fear of losing his or her job, or recently was laid off. I'm sure many of you Torch readers have experienced someone close being in that situation.
It's certainly not a WWE-only thing, but many wrestlers are considered to be paranoid by nature because they're competing for TV spots and PPV headlining-matches in a very subjective environment of deciding who gets those spots. So, when you see a wrestler protect his body in the ring or wrestle a soft match, don't think it's because the wrestler is trying to cheat the fans, but because he has to protect his investment on a constant basis, especially with WWE releasing talent left and right.
Which brings me to another point on the ultimate oxymoron in the world of an "independent contractor being released." How does someone who's considered "independent" of a company become released? WWE doesn't have any right to "release" someone, when the contractor - in the spirit of the law - should control the work he or she is to perform. It's completely ludicrous. End Rant.
Greg Tingle comment...
All respect to JBL for speaking on these things. My late father, who was mates (and workmates) with a few of the Australian pro wrestlers in the 1980s, thanks to the truck driving profession (where a few of the pro wrestlers got their real pay days) told me.. "balance is the key". I'm not certain the term had been coined back then, but he meant Mind, Body and Spirit. We said along the lines of "work on the body and work on the mind, and work hard".
It's in the best interests of the wrestlers (and their loved ones) that they do prepare for rainy day. As we know, the WWE business model can only allow for a certain amount of workers to be on the books at any one time. It's great the pro wrestling can offer huge exposure via the audience and to network big wigs and the like. Standing out from the pack and being very good or excellent at something else has proven to be a largely successful formula. The best wrestlers are usually very good actors, and they take that mainstream, sometimes with assistance from WWE Studios, sometimes in non WWE productions.
Wrestlers doing MMA, indy productions and "shoot interviews" has mixed results for their career path.
The bottom line is that the pro wrestler needs to do their best, in and out of the ring, to help ensure their livelihood for the day that they hang up their tights and are no longer wanted or needed by the world's top and highest paying pro wrestling promotions. The worker needs to protect their best interests, and that includes taking calculated risks and putting on the best show possible, that both promoter and fans will be happy with, but not killing themselves by getting banged up too badly in the progress.
Next time you think about giving a star rating to a pro wrestling match, think outside the square and take into consideration that the wrestler may be pacing themselves or be in the middle of a hectic travel schedule, or even be in great pain.
JBL's holistic approach - wrestling, financials, private business, commentating and the spot of writing, and intelligent choice of life and business partners, appears to be very sound, and would appear to be a good model for other pro wrestlers to follow. Of course, most pro wrestlers haven't got their pro wrestling to JBL's stage, but it sure the hell is something to aspire to.
I witnessed JBL wrestle in person at a roughhouse wrestling venue in Germany approx 15 years ago, and I had no idea he would make it as big as he has. Nothing stays the same forever... careers go in cycles - up and down. JBL was putting the work in way back then, and I had no idea that he was heading for greatness, but he sure worked hard in the match. JBL must have had a plan and a vision, and he knew where was heading - to the top of one of the the professions in the world.
Disclaimer: I joined JBL's Layfield Energy b2b program as a both a mark of respect and support for wrestlers who can see beyond the flashy lights and body slamming. Our website already has WWE, MBS and JBL content, and attracts over 1 million hits per month, so it was a perfect fit. If it makes some good money for me, that's a bonus, but I did as respect and to support JBL's smarts, guts and leadership. It's great to see that more pro wrestlers and starting to "get it", and much like (some) Australian NRL (National Rugby League) players and clubs, are taking steps to plan for the future, for when their bodies or desire won't be up to being just that "slice of meat" that the promoters hired them to be. The business needs more JBL's, and I would think the McMahon and other top promoters would be supportive. It also helps protect their investment and reputations. Here's to success on all levels.
(Credit: Pro Wrestling Torch)
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
John Bradshaw Layfield
Layfield's Energy
Wrestling
The Wrestler
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
'Legends of Wrestling' is a great look back, by Mark Satrang, Pro Wrestling Examiner - 27th January 2009
Today, January 27, 2009, World Wrestling Entertainment released another fantastic DVD set, this one entitled “Legends of Wrestling.”
The 3-disc boxed set features a series of roundtable discussions from long-time wrestling personalities and Hall of Famers in their own right, talking about other legends and important moments in wrestling history. The format features a moderator and four long-time wrestling personalities sitting roundtable style giving their uncensored thoughts on the subjects at hand. The discussion is truly unscripted and unfiltered, as these panelists have known and worked with these discussion subjects for a long time, and all have their own unique thoughts, whether good or bad. It’s a good thing there is a moderator to keep the subject on task or else the charismatic panel would take the discussion somewhere completely off subject.
The first disc features a panel discussion on former World Heavyweight Champions Sgt. Slaughter and “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair. In addition to the discussion a series of matches from both men’s careers are included as extras on the disc.
The second disc follows the same format with a roundtable discussion on Jerry “The King” Lawler and Junkyard Dog, two men who were big stars in their own right in World Wrestling Entertainment, but were also very successful in the “old days” of the territory system.
The third disc is the most interesting of the boxed set, as the roundtable discusses “Heatseekers” in wrestling, which essentially was a talk about controversial or unpopular people and characters in wrestling history. The extras features matches from a variety of “heatseekers,” including the Fabulous Freebirds, Scott Hall, Vince Russo, Buff Bagwell and others. The roundtable talk is definitely the most entertaining of the three discs.
As an extra bonus, Best Buy is also selling three separate DVDs with more roundtable discussions and match extras. One highlights former WWE Champions Andre the Giant & the Iron Sheik, a second is about another pair of former WWE Champions in Hulk Hogan & Bob Backlund and the third and final disc discusses the always wild and controversial characters of Rowdy Roddy Piper and Terry Funk.
These roundtable discussions are absolutely fascinating for a wrestling history nerd like myself. It’s great to be able to “pull back the curtain” and see what these industry greats think of their peers good or bad. And much like having a conversation with any “old-timer,” a lot of funny stories come out the discussion. A lot of the panelists are good friends and you can see that camaraderie come out while they talk with each other.
The match extras are an absolutely great bonus for the DVDs, but the discussions are definitely the highlight of the discs. This is only six of the Legends roundtables as more have been recorded and distributed via WWE 24/7, and I’m sure if this set does well we can be sure to see more released on DVD in the near future.
For a fan old-school wrestling or just wants to learn about wrestling from those who lived it this is right up your alley. The actual quality of the match extras are hit or miss, but the roundtable discussions are absolutely fantastic and worth the “price of admission.” (Credit: Pro Wrestling Examiner)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling Legends
Wrestling
WWE
Today, January 27, 2009, World Wrestling Entertainment released another fantastic DVD set, this one entitled “Legends of Wrestling.”
The 3-disc boxed set features a series of roundtable discussions from long-time wrestling personalities and Hall of Famers in their own right, talking about other legends and important moments in wrestling history. The format features a moderator and four long-time wrestling personalities sitting roundtable style giving their uncensored thoughts on the subjects at hand. The discussion is truly unscripted and unfiltered, as these panelists have known and worked with these discussion subjects for a long time, and all have their own unique thoughts, whether good or bad. It’s a good thing there is a moderator to keep the subject on task or else the charismatic panel would take the discussion somewhere completely off subject.
The first disc features a panel discussion on former World Heavyweight Champions Sgt. Slaughter and “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair. In addition to the discussion a series of matches from both men’s careers are included as extras on the disc.
The second disc follows the same format with a roundtable discussion on Jerry “The King” Lawler and Junkyard Dog, two men who were big stars in their own right in World Wrestling Entertainment, but were also very successful in the “old days” of the territory system.
The third disc is the most interesting of the boxed set, as the roundtable discusses “Heatseekers” in wrestling, which essentially was a talk about controversial or unpopular people and characters in wrestling history. The extras features matches from a variety of “heatseekers,” including the Fabulous Freebirds, Scott Hall, Vince Russo, Buff Bagwell and others. The roundtable talk is definitely the most entertaining of the three discs.
As an extra bonus, Best Buy is also selling three separate DVDs with more roundtable discussions and match extras. One highlights former WWE Champions Andre the Giant & the Iron Sheik, a second is about another pair of former WWE Champions in Hulk Hogan & Bob Backlund and the third and final disc discusses the always wild and controversial characters of Rowdy Roddy Piper and Terry Funk.
These roundtable discussions are absolutely fascinating for a wrestling history nerd like myself. It’s great to be able to “pull back the curtain” and see what these industry greats think of their peers good or bad. And much like having a conversation with any “old-timer,” a lot of funny stories come out the discussion. A lot of the panelists are good friends and you can see that camaraderie come out while they talk with each other.
The match extras are an absolutely great bonus for the DVDs, but the discussions are definitely the highlight of the discs. This is only six of the Legends roundtables as more have been recorded and distributed via WWE 24/7, and I’m sure if this set does well we can be sure to see more released on DVD in the near future.
For a fan old-school wrestling or just wants to learn about wrestling from those who lived it this is right up your alley. The actual quality of the match extras are hit or miss, but the roundtable discussions are absolutely fantastic and worth the “price of admission.” (Credit: Pro Wrestling Examiner)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Wrestling Legends
Wrestling
WWE
Monday, January 26, 2009
Access Exclusive: Mickey Rourke To Get In The Ring With WWE For ‘Wrestlemania' - 25th January 2009
LOS ANGELES, Calif.
Mickey Rourke has received critical acclaim for his comeback role in “The Wrestler,” where he plays a former pro wrestling legend who falls on hard times.
And on the red carpet at the 15th Annual SAG Awards on Sunday night in Hollywood, the actor revealed he’s about to get in the ring in real life.
Rourke will be participating in WWE’s “Wrestlemania 25” in Houston on April 5.
“The boys from the WWE called me and asked me to do it,” Rourke told Access Hollywood. “I said, ‘I want to.’ I’m talking with [WWE legend] Rowdy Roddy Piper about it.”
In fact, Rourke, whose role in “The Wrestler” earned him a SAG nomination for Best Actor (as well as an Academy Award nomination and a win at the Golden Globes earlier this month), said the professional wrestling industry has been extremely supportive of his portrayal of the sport.
“The nicest thing has been the whole wrestling community embracing us,” Rourke said on the red carpet. “The movie was about their world.”
And when he does jump into the ring with WWE, it appears the actor may already have his sights set on an opponent.
“Chris Jericho, you better get in shape,” Rourke added. “Because I’m coming after your a**.” (Credit: Access Hollywood)
Media Man Australia Profiles
The Wrestler
Roddy Piper
WrestleMania
WWE
LOS ANGELES, Calif.
Mickey Rourke has received critical acclaim for his comeback role in “The Wrestler,” where he plays a former pro wrestling legend who falls on hard times.
And on the red carpet at the 15th Annual SAG Awards on Sunday night in Hollywood, the actor revealed he’s about to get in the ring in real life.
Rourke will be participating in WWE’s “Wrestlemania 25” in Houston on April 5.
“The boys from the WWE called me and asked me to do it,” Rourke told Access Hollywood. “I said, ‘I want to.’ I’m talking with [WWE legend] Rowdy Roddy Piper about it.”
In fact, Rourke, whose role in “The Wrestler” earned him a SAG nomination for Best Actor (as well as an Academy Award nomination and a win at the Golden Globes earlier this month), said the professional wrestling industry has been extremely supportive of his portrayal of the sport.
“The nicest thing has been the whole wrestling community embracing us,” Rourke said on the red carpet. “The movie was about their world.”
And when he does jump into the ring with WWE, it appears the actor may already have his sights set on an opponent.
“Chris Jericho, you better get in shape,” Rourke added. “Because I’m coming after your a**.” (Credit: Access Hollywood)
Media Man Australia Profiles
The Wrestler
Roddy Piper
WrestleMania
WWE
Monday, January 12, 2009
WWE is all I have, by Nui Te Koha - Herald Sun - 2nd November 2008
SOMETIMES, the best professional wrestling is all talk. It seemed that way when World Wrestling Entertainment star Triple H rated colleague John Cena recently.
"This is his life, this is his wife, this is his kids," Triple H said of Cena's WWE commitment.
"This is everything he is."
Cena, 31, considers the comment carefully. Was Triple H, the league's cerebral assassin, playing mind games?
"Coming from one of my peers, it could be taken two ways," Cena smiles.
"I guess I am a one-trick pony. I love what I do. I've had opportunities to make a living in other facets of entertainment and I've turned a lot of things down to stay in the wrestling ring."
Cena pauses for thought.
"However I choose to look at it, Triple H is actually very correct," he says.
"I've been in this company quite a while now and everybody knows I'm the guy who doesn't say no.
"I want to spread the good word of this company to whoever will listen.
"I don't have a wife, I don't have kids and I certainly travel 300 days a year. So, well said, Triple H.
"This is my family. I certainly don't have a back-up plan. This is all I have."
Of course, Cena, a WWE champion, actor and rapper, has other options.
His 2005 album, a solid hip-hop outing titled You Can't See Me, was a US Top 10 hit. Cena starred in the action flick The Marine and coming cop drama 12 Rounds.
But his brand as a WWE superstar is global. Initially a bodybuilder, Cena became a wrestler in 2000 and signed to the WWE two years later.
Cena's mojo is based in truth and backing himself -- no matter how it plays with audiences.
"I'm a genuine guy. I act how I want to act, I dress how I want to dress. I don't follow trends," he says.
"If it happens to be cool at the time, so be it, then I'm the cool guy. If it's out of date, then I'm out of date.
"If I'm getting booed because I'm out of place, I don't try to put myself in place. I stay the course and wait for good things to happen."
You Can't See Me was equally polarising.
Cena, influenced heavily by his cousin, Marc Predka, a Boston area rapper known as The Trademarc, had tight flows.
The album rolled with party jams, fight music and battle raps.
On the rhyme Just Another Day, Cena compared his struggles in poverty and wealth.
"I've been broke enough to live out of my car," Cena says.
"I've been virtually homeless and I've been successful and there is a struggle at every rung of the ladder.
"If you don't have two nickels to rub together and win the lotto tomorrow, would you be set for life? No. You'd have a new set of problems to deal with.
"Mo' money, mo' problems," Cena says. "Something happens with every step."
Cena has always put a funny spin on the good life, sex and women.
On his hilarious (and WWE-disowned) video blog, Five Questions with the Champ, Cena once said he was single, available and easy.
In another episode he named his manhood Richard Hammerbush.
How does Cena view women and relationships?
"If you asked me five years ago, I would've had a different answer for you," Cena responds.
"But, being on tour for so many years and having been across the globe seven or eight times, I'm slowing down when it comes to things like that.
"I'm really focusing on being an adult.
"I'd love to be the guy who took this business (WWE) to the next level. Where we can walk the red carpet at the Oscars, we can go on any television talk show in the world, we can be associated with the entertainment and sport elements we're supposed to be associated with.
"That's my vision rather than having a good time tonight so I can have story for you tomorrow. I'm focusing on the big picture."
Summerslam 2008 DVD is out now. WWE Raw Live Tour 2009 (with John Cena, Batista, CM Punk, Randy Orton, Chris Jericho, Rey Mysterio and Kane), Rod Laver Arena, July 7. Tickets on sale now. Raw vs Smackdown 2009 (for XBox 360, PS2, PS3, PSP, Wii and Nintendo DS), is released on Thursday. (Credit: Herald Sun)
Media Man Australia Profiles
John Cena
WWE
SOMETIMES, the best professional wrestling is all talk. It seemed that way when World Wrestling Entertainment star Triple H rated colleague John Cena recently.
"This is his life, this is his wife, this is his kids," Triple H said of Cena's WWE commitment.
"This is everything he is."
Cena, 31, considers the comment carefully. Was Triple H, the league's cerebral assassin, playing mind games?
"Coming from one of my peers, it could be taken two ways," Cena smiles.
"I guess I am a one-trick pony. I love what I do. I've had opportunities to make a living in other facets of entertainment and I've turned a lot of things down to stay in the wrestling ring."
Cena pauses for thought.
"However I choose to look at it, Triple H is actually very correct," he says.
"I've been in this company quite a while now and everybody knows I'm the guy who doesn't say no.
"I want to spread the good word of this company to whoever will listen.
"I don't have a wife, I don't have kids and I certainly travel 300 days a year. So, well said, Triple H.
"This is my family. I certainly don't have a back-up plan. This is all I have."
Of course, Cena, a WWE champion, actor and rapper, has other options.
His 2005 album, a solid hip-hop outing titled You Can't See Me, was a US Top 10 hit. Cena starred in the action flick The Marine and coming cop drama 12 Rounds.
But his brand as a WWE superstar is global. Initially a bodybuilder, Cena became a wrestler in 2000 and signed to the WWE two years later.
Cena's mojo is based in truth and backing himself -- no matter how it plays with audiences.
"I'm a genuine guy. I act how I want to act, I dress how I want to dress. I don't follow trends," he says.
"If it happens to be cool at the time, so be it, then I'm the cool guy. If it's out of date, then I'm out of date.
"If I'm getting booed because I'm out of place, I don't try to put myself in place. I stay the course and wait for good things to happen."
You Can't See Me was equally polarising.
Cena, influenced heavily by his cousin, Marc Predka, a Boston area rapper known as The Trademarc, had tight flows.
The album rolled with party jams, fight music and battle raps.
On the rhyme Just Another Day, Cena compared his struggles in poverty and wealth.
"I've been broke enough to live out of my car," Cena says.
"I've been virtually homeless and I've been successful and there is a struggle at every rung of the ladder.
"If you don't have two nickels to rub together and win the lotto tomorrow, would you be set for life? No. You'd have a new set of problems to deal with.
"Mo' money, mo' problems," Cena says. "Something happens with every step."
Cena has always put a funny spin on the good life, sex and women.
On his hilarious (and WWE-disowned) video blog, Five Questions with the Champ, Cena once said he was single, available and easy.
In another episode he named his manhood Richard Hammerbush.
How does Cena view women and relationships?
"If you asked me five years ago, I would've had a different answer for you," Cena responds.
"But, being on tour for so many years and having been across the globe seven or eight times, I'm slowing down when it comes to things like that.
"I'm really focusing on being an adult.
"I'd love to be the guy who took this business (WWE) to the next level. Where we can walk the red carpet at the Oscars, we can go on any television talk show in the world, we can be associated with the entertainment and sport elements we're supposed to be associated with.
"That's my vision rather than having a good time tonight so I can have story for you tomorrow. I'm focusing on the big picture."
Summerslam 2008 DVD is out now. WWE Raw Live Tour 2009 (with John Cena, Batista, CM Punk, Randy Orton, Chris Jericho, Rey Mysterio and Kane), Rod Laver Arena, July 7. Tickets on sale now. Raw vs Smackdown 2009 (for XBox 360, PS2, PS3, PSP, Wii and Nintendo DS), is released on Thursday. (Credit: Herald Sun)
Media Man Australia Profiles
John Cena
WWE
WWE cuts staff in economic smackdown - 11th January 2009
World Wrestling Entertainment, a US media group whose superstar wrestlers body-slam their opponents into oblivion, has proved no match for the US recession, unveiling on Friday a round of job cuts.
The company said it was slashing 10 per cent of its staff across all global operations to save an estimated $US8 million ($A11.22 million) annually.
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) did not specify the number of jobs to be tossed, but according to the latest available figures, the Stamford, Connecticut-based firm had 570 employees at the end of 2007.
"These efficiencies will help position the company for the long-term, by placing it in a stronger, more flexible position," said Linda McMahon, chief executive at WWE.
"With these actions, we believe we can execute our key strategic initiatives, including our digital strategy and international expansion, in a more profitable manner."
The company said it would take an estimated $US3 million ($A4.21 million) restructuring charge in the first quarter of 2009, part of efforts to cut its cost base by $US20 million ($A28.04 million) in 2009.
The deepening US recession, which began in December 2007, has weighed on the company's bottom line. Third-quarter profit in 2008 sank 38 per cent from a year ago, to $US5.3 million ($A7.43 million).
WWE organises the fights and manages the colourful male and female wrestling "talents" who pound, kick and insult each other in the kitschy entertainment sport.
In 2007, WWE had sales of $US485 million ($A680.03 million): 65 per cent from television broadcasts, 28 per cent from tickets and paraphernalia, and 7 per cent from its website.
Shares in WWE, which realises a quarter of its sales outside North America, have sagged about 45 per cent in the past nine months.
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
World Wrestling Entertainment, a US media group whose superstar wrestlers body-slam their opponents into oblivion, has proved no match for the US recession, unveiling on Friday a round of job cuts.
The company said it was slashing 10 per cent of its staff across all global operations to save an estimated $US8 million ($A11.22 million) annually.
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) did not specify the number of jobs to be tossed, but according to the latest available figures, the Stamford, Connecticut-based firm had 570 employees at the end of 2007.
"These efficiencies will help position the company for the long-term, by placing it in a stronger, more flexible position," said Linda McMahon, chief executive at WWE.
"With these actions, we believe we can execute our key strategic initiatives, including our digital strategy and international expansion, in a more profitable manner."
The company said it would take an estimated $US3 million ($A4.21 million) restructuring charge in the first quarter of 2009, part of efforts to cut its cost base by $US20 million ($A28.04 million) in 2009.
The deepening US recession, which began in December 2007, has weighed on the company's bottom line. Third-quarter profit in 2008 sank 38 per cent from a year ago, to $US5.3 million ($A7.43 million).
WWE organises the fights and manages the colourful male and female wrestling "talents" who pound, kick and insult each other in the kitschy entertainment sport.
In 2007, WWE had sales of $US485 million ($A680.03 million): 65 per cent from television broadcasts, 28 per cent from tickets and paraphernalia, and 7 per cent from its website.
Shares in WWE, which realises a quarter of its sales outside North America, have sagged about 45 per cent in the past nine months.
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Sunday, January 11, 2009
WWE Announce Stone Cold Steve Austin Hall of Fame Induction - 10th January 2009
Media Man Australia Profiles
Stone Cold Steve Austin
WWE
Media Man Australia Profiles
Stone Cold Steve Austin
WWE
Saturday, January 10, 2009
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009, By Greg Miller - Good Gear Guide - 11th November 2008
Rating 4 stars
Price $99.95
Reviewed on Xbox 360
Summary
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is a good game but one that falls short of its potential. The Roster Editor is a welcome addition, Create-A-Finisher could be deeper but is a great first effort, the Inferno Match is over-the-top but fun, and Road to WrestleMania is one of the best story modes I've seen in a wrestling game in years. However, I can't shake the feeling that I'm playing last year's game when we get down to the nitty gritty match mechanics.
ON paper, it seems like WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 should cruise to wrestling game greatness.
The title packs more than 60 wrestlers, 14 one-on-one match types including the new Inferno option, the promise of downloadable content before the holidays, a new story mode, better AI, a focus on tag teams and the ability to save replays and create/share your own Highlights Reels.
However, when you get into the punching, grappling, and slamming that make up the game, the world begins to feel like well worn territory. In the end, we have a game that improves on last year's outing in a number of ways but falls short of putting on the five-star bout many were expecting thanks to a noticeably stale feeling.
Don't get me wrong, SVR 09 is a fun game. The solid controls from last year are back – left stick to move, right stick to grapple, reversals via the shoulder buttons, and so on – and come with a few minor touches such as the game flashing "Signature Move" when you can set off a stored special as well as the ability to enter the ring via the steel steps. These are welcome additions, but it's pretty much exactly what you saw last year. Still, there are a handful of other bells and whistles to grab your attention.
For starters, the AI in SVR 09 doesn't suck for a change. On Legend, the computer's still going to be reversal heavy, but it's also going to store Finishers, break up pins in tag matches, and basically give you a run for your money. If you're not happy with how the AI is acting, SVR 09 finally gives us sliders to adjust the game's thinking. You can make Finishers more or less powerful, you can adjust how much the computer reverses, and you can even modify momentum rates.
Customization like the sliders is a theme in this game. While you're messing with menu, a smattering of entrance music is playing as a soundtrack. If you don't like a particular song, you can press in your left stick and skip to the next track. Via the game's Roster Editor, you can mold the WWE as you see fit with a few button clicks – change what brand people are on, give and take away championships, decide who is clean and who is dirty. There are alternate attires for the likes of CM Punk, Rey Mysterio, Chris Jericho, and others; there are 19 arenas; and you can unlock the WCW brand and classic championship.
Of course, this wouldn't be a professional wrestling game if it didn't add some new gimmick matches. The Inferno Match is an interesting bout that looks good but always ends a bit silly. You and your opponent duke it out in a ring where the edges are set ablaze. As you pull off moves, the flames leap and the temperature in the lower left corner rises. When the magic number reaches 500 degrees, you're supposed to drag your opponent to the ropes and toss him into the fire. When one of you is successful a body flies over the ropes and that guy's clothing is set one fire.
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Rating 4 stars
Price $99.95
Reviewed on Xbox 360
Summary
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is a good game but one that falls short of its potential. The Roster Editor is a welcome addition, Create-A-Finisher could be deeper but is a great first effort, the Inferno Match is over-the-top but fun, and Road to WrestleMania is one of the best story modes I've seen in a wrestling game in years. However, I can't shake the feeling that I'm playing last year's game when we get down to the nitty gritty match mechanics.
ON paper, it seems like WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 should cruise to wrestling game greatness.
The title packs more than 60 wrestlers, 14 one-on-one match types including the new Inferno option, the promise of downloadable content before the holidays, a new story mode, better AI, a focus on tag teams and the ability to save replays and create/share your own Highlights Reels.
However, when you get into the punching, grappling, and slamming that make up the game, the world begins to feel like well worn territory. In the end, we have a game that improves on last year's outing in a number of ways but falls short of putting on the five-star bout many were expecting thanks to a noticeably stale feeling.
Don't get me wrong, SVR 09 is a fun game. The solid controls from last year are back – left stick to move, right stick to grapple, reversals via the shoulder buttons, and so on – and come with a few minor touches such as the game flashing "Signature Move" when you can set off a stored special as well as the ability to enter the ring via the steel steps. These are welcome additions, but it's pretty much exactly what you saw last year. Still, there are a handful of other bells and whistles to grab your attention.
For starters, the AI in SVR 09 doesn't suck for a change. On Legend, the computer's still going to be reversal heavy, but it's also going to store Finishers, break up pins in tag matches, and basically give you a run for your money. If you're not happy with how the AI is acting, SVR 09 finally gives us sliders to adjust the game's thinking. You can make Finishers more or less powerful, you can adjust how much the computer reverses, and you can even modify momentum rates.
Customization like the sliders is a theme in this game. While you're messing with menu, a smattering of entrance music is playing as a soundtrack. If you don't like a particular song, you can press in your left stick and skip to the next track. Via the game's Roster Editor, you can mold the WWE as you see fit with a few button clicks – change what brand people are on, give and take away championships, decide who is clean and who is dirty. There are alternate attires for the likes of CM Punk, Rey Mysterio, Chris Jericho, and others; there are 19 arenas; and you can unlock the WCW brand and classic championship.
Of course, this wouldn't be a professional wrestling game if it didn't add some new gimmick matches. The Inferno Match is an interesting bout that looks good but always ends a bit silly. You and your opponent duke it out in a ring where the edges are set ablaze. As you pull off moves, the flames leap and the temperature in the lower left corner rises. When the magic number reaches 500 degrees, you're supposed to drag your opponent to the ropes and toss him into the fire. When one of you is successful a body flies over the ropes and that guy's clothing is set one fire.
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
WWE cuts staff in economic smackdown - 10th January 2009
World Wrestling Entertainment, a US media group whose superstar wrestlers body-slam their opponents into oblivion, has proved no match for the US recession, unveiling on Friday a round of job cuts.
The company said it was slashing 10 per cent of its staff across all global operations to save an estimated $US8 million ($A11.22 million) annually.
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) did not specify the number of jobs to be tossed, but according to the latest available figures, the Stamford, Connecticut-based firm had 570 employees at the end of 2007.
"These efficiencies will help position the company for the long-term, by placing it in a stronger, more flexible position," said Linda McMahon, chief executive at WWE.
"With these actions, we believe we can execute our key strategic initiatives, including our digital strategy and international expansion, in a more profitable manner."
The company said it would take an estimated $US3 million ($A4.21 million) restructuring charge in the first quarter of 2009, part of efforts to cut its cost base by $US20 million ($A28.04 million) in 2009.
The deepening US recession, which began in December 2007, has weighed on the company's bottom line. Third-quarter profit in 2008 sank 38 per cent from a year ago, to $US5.3 million ($A7.43 million).
WWE organises the fights and manages the colourful male and female wrestling "talents" who pound, kick and insult each other in the kitschy entertainment sport.
In 2007, WWE had sales of $US485 million ($A680.03 million): 65 per cent from television broadcasts, 28 per cent from tickets and paraphernalia, and 7 per cent from its website.
Shares in WWE, which realises a quarter of its sales outside North America, have sagged about 45 per cent in the past nine months.
Media Man Australia Profiles
World Wrestling Entertainment
World Wrestling Entertainment, a US media group whose superstar wrestlers body-slam their opponents into oblivion, has proved no match for the US recession, unveiling on Friday a round of job cuts.
The company said it was slashing 10 per cent of its staff across all global operations to save an estimated $US8 million ($A11.22 million) annually.
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) did not specify the number of jobs to be tossed, but according to the latest available figures, the Stamford, Connecticut-based firm had 570 employees at the end of 2007.
"These efficiencies will help position the company for the long-term, by placing it in a stronger, more flexible position," said Linda McMahon, chief executive at WWE.
"With these actions, we believe we can execute our key strategic initiatives, including our digital strategy and international expansion, in a more profitable manner."
The company said it would take an estimated $US3 million ($A4.21 million) restructuring charge in the first quarter of 2009, part of efforts to cut its cost base by $US20 million ($A28.04 million) in 2009.
The deepening US recession, which began in December 2007, has weighed on the company's bottom line. Third-quarter profit in 2008 sank 38 per cent from a year ago, to $US5.3 million ($A7.43 million).
WWE organises the fights and manages the colourful male and female wrestling "talents" who pound, kick and insult each other in the kitschy entertainment sport.
In 2007, WWE had sales of $US485 million ($A680.03 million): 65 per cent from television broadcasts, 28 per cent from tickets and paraphernalia, and 7 per cent from its website.
Shares in WWE, which realises a quarter of its sales outside North America, have sagged about 45 per cent in the past nine months.
Media Man Australia Profiles
World Wrestling Entertainment
Thursday, January 08, 2009
WWE Studios
Breaking News: John Cena back in Hollywood!!!
12 Rounds is an upcoming 2009 film set to be directed by Renny Harlin and produced by WWE Films. Casting is ongoing, but professional wrestler John Cena is set to star alongside Steve Harris, Aidan Gillen, and Brian J. White. Filming has been scheduled to take place in New Orleans between February 25 and May 12, 2008. The film will be released on March 13, 2009
Kane Makes Hollywood Debut!!!
A group of delinquents are sent to clean the Blackwell Hotel. Little do they know reclusive psychopath Jacob Goodnight (Jacobs) has holed away in the rotting hotel. When one of the teens is captured, those who remain -- a group that includes the cop who put a bullet in Goodnight's head four years ago -- band together to survive against the brutal killer.
John Cena Makes A Splash In Hollywood!!
John Cena dominates the big screen as Marine John Triton. Wherever there's danger, Triton is usually smack dab in the middle of it... and he doesn't play by rules! After he's unwillingly discharged from Iraq, Triton's beautiful wife Kate s kidnapped by merciless jewel thieves led by a vicious killer (Robert Patrick)! Now, Triton must fight to save her.
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
WWE Films
Breaking News: John Cena back in Hollywood!!!
12 Rounds is an upcoming 2009 film set to be directed by Renny Harlin and produced by WWE Films. Casting is ongoing, but professional wrestler John Cena is set to star alongside Steve Harris, Aidan Gillen, and Brian J. White. Filming has been scheduled to take place in New Orleans between February 25 and May 12, 2008. The film will be released on March 13, 2009
Kane Makes Hollywood Debut!!!
A group of delinquents are sent to clean the Blackwell Hotel. Little do they know reclusive psychopath Jacob Goodnight (Jacobs) has holed away in the rotting hotel. When one of the teens is captured, those who remain -- a group that includes the cop who put a bullet in Goodnight's head four years ago -- band together to survive against the brutal killer.
John Cena Makes A Splash In Hollywood!!
John Cena dominates the big screen as Marine John Triton. Wherever there's danger, Triton is usually smack dab in the middle of it... and he doesn't play by rules! After he's unwillingly discharged from Iraq, Triton's beautiful wife Kate s kidnapped by merciless jewel thieves led by a vicious killer (Robert Patrick)! Now, Triton must fight to save her.
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
WWE Films
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
WWE Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan Hulkamania Slot Coming Soon
Pro wrestling icon, Hulk Hogan, will soon have his own slot in casinos around the world.
Rumour also has it that the late, great, Andre The Giant will also have a slot based on him, and Andre's slot game will be found in various online casinos!
Pro wrestling has mainstream appeal and caters for young and old alike, so it should be of little surprise that wrestling icons would have their own slot games. This trend appears a natural progression from movie blockbusters being turned into films such as Top Gun and The Godfather (PartyCasino.com) and Marvel Comics with the likes of The Hulk, Fantastic Four, Spider-Man and Iron Man.
2009 promises to be a banner year from entertainment industry themed slots, and WWE icons and entertainment industry mainstays are set to be in the thick of the action and excitement. POW and Hell Yeah!
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Hulk Hogan
Andre The Giant
Pro wrestling icon, Hulk Hogan, will soon have his own slot in casinos around the world.
Rumour also has it that the late, great, Andre The Giant will also have a slot based on him, and Andre's slot game will be found in various online casinos!
Pro wrestling has mainstream appeal and caters for young and old alike, so it should be of little surprise that wrestling icons would have their own slot games. This trend appears a natural progression from movie blockbusters being turned into films such as Top Gun and The Godfather (PartyCasino.com) and Marvel Comics with the likes of The Hulk, Fantastic Four, Spider-Man and Iron Man.
2009 promises to be a banner year from entertainment industry themed slots, and WWE icons and entertainment industry mainstays are set to be in the thick of the action and excitement. POW and Hell Yeah!
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Hulk Hogan
Andre The Giant
Monday, December 22, 2008
The Full Backstage Story On Jeff Hardy's WWE Title Win
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that it was WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, the same individual who had once taken a strong stance against giving a top belt to a wrestler at risk of suspension, who made the decision to crown Jeff Hardy WWE Champion.
According to the story, McMahon made the call at a creative meeting two weeks before the Armageddon event. While the initial plans called for Edge to hold the belt until Backlash, at which point some sort of "twist" would be scripted to heighten interest on the SmackDown! side, the decision ultimately came down to McMahon and creative seeing more short-term value in a Hardy championship reign.
Those in favor felt that fans would rather watch Jeff Hardy keep the belt in the face of constant adversity from Hardy and Vickie Guerrero than see Edge sneakily retain the belt due to assistance from Guerrero, a storyline which has been heavily used in pro wrestling.
Regarding the example set by giving the belt to someone with Wellness Policy suspensions under his belt, Stephanie McMahon voiced her opposition to Hardy title reign. Vince addressed her concern by noting the value of the title victory if Hardy handled the opportunity well; his argument was also bolstered by the fact that WWE has not been shy about publicly suspending those who fail drug tests; WWE's history of following the policy assures that people will not start taking it lightly.
He also said that WWE would not be afraid to fire Champion Hardy, if necessary under the Wellness Policy, which would serve as a big message to talent about the seriousness of the drug policy.
Websites
Wrestling Observer Newsletter
Pro Wrestling Torch
WWE Jeff Hardy website
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE Wellness Program
WWE
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that it was WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, the same individual who had once taken a strong stance against giving a top belt to a wrestler at risk of suspension, who made the decision to crown Jeff Hardy WWE Champion.
According to the story, McMahon made the call at a creative meeting two weeks before the Armageddon event. While the initial plans called for Edge to hold the belt until Backlash, at which point some sort of "twist" would be scripted to heighten interest on the SmackDown! side, the decision ultimately came down to McMahon and creative seeing more short-term value in a Hardy championship reign.
Those in favor felt that fans would rather watch Jeff Hardy keep the belt in the face of constant adversity from Hardy and Vickie Guerrero than see Edge sneakily retain the belt due to assistance from Guerrero, a storyline which has been heavily used in pro wrestling.
Regarding the example set by giving the belt to someone with Wellness Policy suspensions under his belt, Stephanie McMahon voiced her opposition to Hardy title reign. Vince addressed her concern by noting the value of the title victory if Hardy handled the opportunity well; his argument was also bolstered by the fact that WWE has not been shy about publicly suspending those who fail drug tests; WWE's history of following the policy assures that people will not start taking it lightly.
He also said that WWE would not be afraid to fire Champion Hardy, if necessary under the Wellness Policy, which would serve as a big message to talent about the seriousness of the drug policy.
Websites
Wrestling Observer Newsletter
Pro Wrestling Torch
WWE Jeff Hardy website
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE Wellness Program
WWE
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Jeff Hardy...WWE Champion, A Personal Look...."The Wrestler" ...A Few Random Thoughts
Wed, 12/17/2008 - 7:11pm — J.R.
Posted in:Wrestling
It is always good to arrive back in Oklahoma safe and sound after a 5 day road trip that at times felt longer. At least the weather was warmer in Buffalo and in Baltimore for the most part than it was back in Oklahoma while I was away. It was a momentous week within the WWE with Jeff Hardy joining the ranks of those who have held the coveted WWE Title. Most onlookers would likely have never put Jeff Hardy in the same sentence with the likes of Bruno Sammartino, the first, truly dominate WWE Champion, but the history books will now always reflect that the son of a rural mail carrier from North Carolina is among the men who have had the responsibility of holding the WWE's most coveted and tenured title.
When I first met Jeff and his older brother Mat they were a tag team who came to selected WWE TV tapings in the southeast and were normally used as cannon fodder for the featured, antagonistic tag teams of the WWE. Their matches occasionally aired on WWE Superstars but more often on WWE Challenge did not last long but the two brothers, who designed and sewed their own wrestling attire, never failed to make a memorable accounting of themselves albeit usually in a losing effort. Looking back on those days around '98 I don't recall the two teens ever winning a match.
Nonetheless the Hardy Brothers had the wonderful gift of passion and had excellent skill sets for their roles and I vividly recall that many tag teams requested to work with Matt and Jeff on those short, one sided bouts of that era.
Jeff's past has been well documented but it merits saying that the younger Hardy, not unlike many of us, has made bad decisions in his life but not without penalty. Jeff left the WWE the first time on my watch. I had one vision for him and he had another. I think I was right, and still do, while I'm sure that Jeff feels that he did what he needed to do at the time which unfortunately resulted in him leaving the WWE. Those days are more like a blur to me now but I can say that at no time did I ever feel that Jeff Hardy was a bad kid. Perhaps I could have done a better job in managing him and mentoring him but the bottom line is that he left the company and at the time I thought, "what a waste of talent."
Jeff's last misstep cost him a Wrestlemania appearance and the payday that would have gone with it including 60 days away from the business of which he was born to be a part. Lost income as a result of that indiscretion had to easily exceed six figures. That's a lesson learned the hard way but a lesson learned nonetheless.
I have read where some fans are uncomfortable with Jeff Hardy being the WWE Champion because of his past "strikes." I have read where some fans feel that because Jeff won the WWE Title at one of the WWE's perceived "secondary" pay per views that it is a tainted title win. Others have predicted that Jeff will be the proverbial "interim" champion and will be losing the title before new merchandise can be made and distributed.
Ironically, prior to Sunday's Armageddon PPV, one of the hottest topics on our Q&A section of our site and on other sites was "When is Jeff Hardy going to win the WWE Title?"
I prefer to look at Jeff's victory which came in one of the best Triple Threat matches I can ever remember broadcasting in a positive manner. The new champion is unique, young, deserving, innovative, and provides several options for a variety of challengers with which to have some potentially, excellent matches.
How long will Jeff Hardy be at the top of the WWE mountain as the WWE Champion? I have no idea other than the obvious answer, " until he loses it." I choose to look at this as an adventure for the talented, young man and to vicariously travel with him on it.
It should be a helluva ride.
One thing that I am thankful for is that I had the opportunity to be a part of the broadcast team that called the match Sunday. Those types of moments are still special to me and aren't just another day at the office. Years from now when I am off the road and selling BBQ full time for a living I can always pop in a DVD of that night or tune into WWE 24/7 On Demand and mentally re-create the extraordinary night when a life long wrestling fan who, from the age of 9, was raised by a single parent and who learned many of his skills on a trampoline lived the dream of a life time.
Like I said, it should be one helluva ride.
Congratulations Jeff and enjoy your accomplishment. You persevered and never quit. You deserve the opportunity and I for one hope that your WWE Title reign is as unique and memorable as is your personality and approach to the business.
"The Wrestler" is going to be in theaters every where soon and I am anxious to see it. I am not concerned about the perception some may get from the film as it relates to the wrestling business. From what I understand from those that have seen the film and by what I have read about it, "The Wrestler" represents an era of wrestling that wasn't a positive representation of the genre but an accurate one based on the individuals who chose to live their lives in an undesirable manner. The wrestling business is not unlike any other form of sports or entertainment in that it does have its non flattering side. That's what an entity gets when they deal with humans who have proved time and again that they are far from perfect. I can assure you that the wrestling business was a traveling Wild West show in the 70's when I got in it. For a young man from rural, eastern Oklahoma I saw things my first couple of years in the business of which I had never dreamed. When wrestling had territories that regularly ran the same markets weekly, the facilitating of many things not advisable was somewhat easy. Not every wrestler partook but enough did to adversely affect the perception of the business. The trend did not end after the 70's as temptations and circumstances helped facilitate more self destruction by those that lived life in the fast lane. However, without question, I can honestly say that things are much better now as it relates to the overall aspect of the business of which I am associated.
However, the past is what it is and history can't and shouldn't be erased but instead be utilized to better the future.
I am sure that for many of us who have lived most of our adult lives immersed inside the wrestling business that the film "The Wrestler" will remind us of many of our peers including many that are no longer with us. That won't elicit happy memories but the film's message could certainly be a sobering one and may help encourage those that emotionally invest in the fictional story of "Randy the Ram" to make better decisions in their lives no matter their vocation.
Speaking of making good decisions, I am proud that the superstar formally known as "Cherry" is heading back to college and taking a sabbatical from the ring. I applaud this young lady's decision as her education is vital in today's world and if she chooses she can always resume her wrestling career. Wrestlers with no college degree or nothing to fall back on if things don't work out for them in the business put themselves in a position to be paranoid and insecure more often than not which can't be deemed any thing but unhealthy.
Friday Night Smackdown is really in-ring, wrestling heavy this week which is a good thing from where I sit.
There's a wrestling connection between the only two players to ever be named AP college football All Americans, James Laurinaitis and Bill Fralic. Laurinaitis, Ohio State's #33 who will graduate with a bachelor's degree after his 4 years for the Buckeyes, is the son of Road Warrior Animal as we all know while Fralic once wrestled in Wrestlemania in a Battle Royal. Fralic and I were friends when I lived in Atlanta and worked with WCW and the Falcons and he was a wrestling fan while growing up in Pittsburgh and a Bruno Sammartino fan in particular. The younger Laurninaitis could end up in a WWE ring after his NFL career finishes but major money awaits James who is a guaranteed first round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Fralic even used the prospect of a pro wrestling career to leverage more money out of the Falcons who made him the #3 overall pick in the draft.
We are Toronto bound next week for a huge Monday in TO with Friday Night Smackdown being taped prior to Monday night Raw going live at 9, I assume. Nonetheless both Monday and Friday shows will emanate from Toronto while ECW will have a "best of" type show as I understand it Christmas week. The great fans in Toronto should get their money's worth as the ACC should be packed Monday night for a star studded evening.
Thanks for all your business in our on line store, in our restaurants in Oklahoma, and for telling your friends about our site. Don't forget that my Smackdown blog will go live on WWE.com Thursday evening or Friday morning.
We are still working on your holiday orders and if you hurry we will do our best to get your shipments to you when you need them.
Boomer Sooner!
J.R.
(Credit: J.R's blog)
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Wed, 12/17/2008 - 7:11pm — J.R.
Posted in:Wrestling
It is always good to arrive back in Oklahoma safe and sound after a 5 day road trip that at times felt longer. At least the weather was warmer in Buffalo and in Baltimore for the most part than it was back in Oklahoma while I was away. It was a momentous week within the WWE with Jeff Hardy joining the ranks of those who have held the coveted WWE Title. Most onlookers would likely have never put Jeff Hardy in the same sentence with the likes of Bruno Sammartino, the first, truly dominate WWE Champion, but the history books will now always reflect that the son of a rural mail carrier from North Carolina is among the men who have had the responsibility of holding the WWE's most coveted and tenured title.
When I first met Jeff and his older brother Mat they were a tag team who came to selected WWE TV tapings in the southeast and were normally used as cannon fodder for the featured, antagonistic tag teams of the WWE. Their matches occasionally aired on WWE Superstars but more often on WWE Challenge did not last long but the two brothers, who designed and sewed their own wrestling attire, never failed to make a memorable accounting of themselves albeit usually in a losing effort. Looking back on those days around '98 I don't recall the two teens ever winning a match.
Nonetheless the Hardy Brothers had the wonderful gift of passion and had excellent skill sets for their roles and I vividly recall that many tag teams requested to work with Matt and Jeff on those short, one sided bouts of that era.
Jeff's past has been well documented but it merits saying that the younger Hardy, not unlike many of us, has made bad decisions in his life but not without penalty. Jeff left the WWE the first time on my watch. I had one vision for him and he had another. I think I was right, and still do, while I'm sure that Jeff feels that he did what he needed to do at the time which unfortunately resulted in him leaving the WWE. Those days are more like a blur to me now but I can say that at no time did I ever feel that Jeff Hardy was a bad kid. Perhaps I could have done a better job in managing him and mentoring him but the bottom line is that he left the company and at the time I thought, "what a waste of talent."
Jeff's last misstep cost him a Wrestlemania appearance and the payday that would have gone with it including 60 days away from the business of which he was born to be a part. Lost income as a result of that indiscretion had to easily exceed six figures. That's a lesson learned the hard way but a lesson learned nonetheless.
I have read where some fans are uncomfortable with Jeff Hardy being the WWE Champion because of his past "strikes." I have read where some fans feel that because Jeff won the WWE Title at one of the WWE's perceived "secondary" pay per views that it is a tainted title win. Others have predicted that Jeff will be the proverbial "interim" champion and will be losing the title before new merchandise can be made and distributed.
Ironically, prior to Sunday's Armageddon PPV, one of the hottest topics on our Q&A section of our site and on other sites was "When is Jeff Hardy going to win the WWE Title?"
I prefer to look at Jeff's victory which came in one of the best Triple Threat matches I can ever remember broadcasting in a positive manner. The new champion is unique, young, deserving, innovative, and provides several options for a variety of challengers with which to have some potentially, excellent matches.
How long will Jeff Hardy be at the top of the WWE mountain as the WWE Champion? I have no idea other than the obvious answer, " until he loses it." I choose to look at this as an adventure for the talented, young man and to vicariously travel with him on it.
It should be a helluva ride.
One thing that I am thankful for is that I had the opportunity to be a part of the broadcast team that called the match Sunday. Those types of moments are still special to me and aren't just another day at the office. Years from now when I am off the road and selling BBQ full time for a living I can always pop in a DVD of that night or tune into WWE 24/7 On Demand and mentally re-create the extraordinary night when a life long wrestling fan who, from the age of 9, was raised by a single parent and who learned many of his skills on a trampoline lived the dream of a life time.
Like I said, it should be one helluva ride.
Congratulations Jeff and enjoy your accomplishment. You persevered and never quit. You deserve the opportunity and I for one hope that your WWE Title reign is as unique and memorable as is your personality and approach to the business.
"The Wrestler" is going to be in theaters every where soon and I am anxious to see it. I am not concerned about the perception some may get from the film as it relates to the wrestling business. From what I understand from those that have seen the film and by what I have read about it, "The Wrestler" represents an era of wrestling that wasn't a positive representation of the genre but an accurate one based on the individuals who chose to live their lives in an undesirable manner. The wrestling business is not unlike any other form of sports or entertainment in that it does have its non flattering side. That's what an entity gets when they deal with humans who have proved time and again that they are far from perfect. I can assure you that the wrestling business was a traveling Wild West show in the 70's when I got in it. For a young man from rural, eastern Oklahoma I saw things my first couple of years in the business of which I had never dreamed. When wrestling had territories that regularly ran the same markets weekly, the facilitating of many things not advisable was somewhat easy. Not every wrestler partook but enough did to adversely affect the perception of the business. The trend did not end after the 70's as temptations and circumstances helped facilitate more self destruction by those that lived life in the fast lane. However, without question, I can honestly say that things are much better now as it relates to the overall aspect of the business of which I am associated.
However, the past is what it is and history can't and shouldn't be erased but instead be utilized to better the future.
I am sure that for many of us who have lived most of our adult lives immersed inside the wrestling business that the film "The Wrestler" will remind us of many of our peers including many that are no longer with us. That won't elicit happy memories but the film's message could certainly be a sobering one and may help encourage those that emotionally invest in the fictional story of "Randy the Ram" to make better decisions in their lives no matter their vocation.
Speaking of making good decisions, I am proud that the superstar formally known as "Cherry" is heading back to college and taking a sabbatical from the ring. I applaud this young lady's decision as her education is vital in today's world and if she chooses she can always resume her wrestling career. Wrestlers with no college degree or nothing to fall back on if things don't work out for them in the business put themselves in a position to be paranoid and insecure more often than not which can't be deemed any thing but unhealthy.
Friday Night Smackdown is really in-ring, wrestling heavy this week which is a good thing from where I sit.
There's a wrestling connection between the only two players to ever be named AP college football All Americans, James Laurinaitis and Bill Fralic. Laurinaitis, Ohio State's #33 who will graduate with a bachelor's degree after his 4 years for the Buckeyes, is the son of Road Warrior Animal as we all know while Fralic once wrestled in Wrestlemania in a Battle Royal. Fralic and I were friends when I lived in Atlanta and worked with WCW and the Falcons and he was a wrestling fan while growing up in Pittsburgh and a Bruno Sammartino fan in particular. The younger Laurninaitis could end up in a WWE ring after his NFL career finishes but major money awaits James who is a guaranteed first round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Fralic even used the prospect of a pro wrestling career to leverage more money out of the Falcons who made him the #3 overall pick in the draft.
We are Toronto bound next week for a huge Monday in TO with Friday Night Smackdown being taped prior to Monday night Raw going live at 9, I assume. Nonetheless both Monday and Friday shows will emanate from Toronto while ECW will have a "best of" type show as I understand it Christmas week. The great fans in Toronto should get their money's worth as the ACC should be packed Monday night for a star studded evening.
Thanks for all your business in our on line store, in our restaurants in Oklahoma, and for telling your friends about our site. Don't forget that my Smackdown blog will go live on WWE.com Thursday evening or Friday morning.
We are still working on your holiday orders and if you hurry we will do our best to get your shipments to you when you need them.
Boomer Sooner!
J.R.
(Credit: J.R's blog)
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Lesnar tops Couture to win UFC title - 16th November 2008
LAS VEGAS - Former WWE star Brock Lesnar made it to the top rank of mixed martial arts Saturday night, overcoming Randy Couture to grab the Ultimate Fighting Championship's heavyweight title. Lesnar, 31, outweighed the 45-year-old Couture by almost 50 pounds and took out the reigning champ with a combination of punches and elbows three minutes into the second round of the match at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. "He is just a big guy who caught me with a big shot," said Couture.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Brock Lesnar
UFC
WWE
LAS VEGAS - Former WWE star Brock Lesnar made it to the top rank of mixed martial arts Saturday night, overcoming Randy Couture to grab the Ultimate Fighting Championship's heavyweight title. Lesnar, 31, outweighed the 45-year-old Couture by almost 50 pounds and took out the reigning champ with a combination of punches and elbows three minutes into the second round of the match at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. "He is just a big guy who caught me with a big shot," said Couture.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Brock Lesnar
UFC
WWE
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Cena and McMahon Spotted in New York
As reported in numerous press reports
John Cena and Vince McMahon were identified as "rocking out" in the front row of the AC/DC concert in New York City last week. The event at Madison Square Garden was part of AC/DC's "Black Ice" North American tour.
Media Man Australia Profiles
John Cena
Vince McMahon
WWE
As reported in numerous press reports
John Cena and Vince McMahon were identified as "rocking out" in the front row of the AC/DC concert in New York City last week. The event at Madison Square Garden was part of AC/DC's "Black Ice" North American tour.
Media Man Australia Profiles
John Cena
Vince McMahon
WWE
Sunday, November 09, 2008
WWE: Jake the Snake Roberts - Pick Your Poison - The New York Times
About the DVD
Explore the life and career of former brawler Jake "The Snake" Roberts in this revealing look at the man who struck fear into the hearts of the greatest wrestlers of his generation. When "The Snake" came out, trouble was sure to follow, and in addition to fighting such fierce opponents as Hulk Hogan and the Ultimate Warrior in the ring, his personal battles have never been revealed in such detail until the release of this insightful documentary. From family tragedy to drug addiction, this release covers both the highlights and the lowlights of one of wrestling's premier fighters. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide
Details
Street Date: November 1, 2005
Rating: TV14
Running Time: 510 Minutes
Language: Eng
Studio: World Wrestling
Region: 1
DVD Sides: 2
Features
* 10 complete matches:
* vs. Ricky Steamboat, Snake Pit Match, The Big Event 8.28.86
* vs. Honky Tonk Man, WrestlingMania III, 3.29.87
* vs. "Ravishing" Rick Rude, Rude Awakening vs. DDT Match, MSG 10.24.88
* vs. Sting, Coal Minr's Glove Match, Halloween Havoc 10.25.92
* vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin, King of the Ring Final, 6.23.96
* vs. Jerry "The King" Lawler, SummerSlam 8.18.96
* The Snake Pit moments with Hulk Hogan & Junkyard Dog
* Classic interviews & promos w/Vince McMahon, Brother Love, Mean Gene Okerlund & more
* A free 80-page WWE Legends mini-book
(Credit: The New York Times)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Jake "the Snake" Roberts
WWE
About the DVD
Explore the life and career of former brawler Jake "The Snake" Roberts in this revealing look at the man who struck fear into the hearts of the greatest wrestlers of his generation. When "The Snake" came out, trouble was sure to follow, and in addition to fighting such fierce opponents as Hulk Hogan and the Ultimate Warrior in the ring, his personal battles have never been revealed in such detail until the release of this insightful documentary. From family tragedy to drug addiction, this release covers both the highlights and the lowlights of one of wrestling's premier fighters. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide
Details
Street Date: November 1, 2005
Rating: TV14
Running Time: 510 Minutes
Language: Eng
Studio: World Wrestling
Region: 1
DVD Sides: 2
Features
* 10 complete matches:
* vs. Ricky Steamboat, Snake Pit Match, The Big Event 8.28.86
* vs. Honky Tonk Man, WrestlingMania III, 3.29.87
* vs. "Ravishing" Rick Rude, Rude Awakening vs. DDT Match, MSG 10.24.88
* vs. Sting, Coal Minr's Glove Match, Halloween Havoc 10.25.92
* vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin, King of the Ring Final, 6.23.96
* vs. Jerry "The King" Lawler, SummerSlam 8.18.96
* The Snake Pit moments with Hulk Hogan & Junkyard Dog
* Classic interviews & promos w/Vince McMahon, Brother Love, Mean Gene Okerlund & more
* A free 80-page WWE Legends mini-book
(Credit: The New York Times)
Media Man Australia Profiles
Jake "the Snake" Roberts
WWE
WWE: Again, it's all about the cash flow, by Steven Mallas - Blogging Stocks - 7th November 2008
World Wrestling Entertainment reported results for the third quarter, and by just about all accounts, things were tough. Revenues were flat at $108.8 million. Net income on a per-share basis, however, dropped almost 42% to $0.07. Talk about getting slammed to the mat! But the really bad aspect was the cash-flow statement. This has been a constant theme as of late. The company's operational cash flow declined massively during the nine-month period, coming in at $17.7 million. Know how much money was paid out in dividends? Try almost $61 million. That's probably why WWE's stock yields over 10%.
So what's the problem here? A couple things. First, costs need to be controlled (the press release does mention this issue, as well as a desire to be more careful when it comes to capital expenditures). Second, CEO Linda McMahon has to get fans excited about wrestling again. If you look at the buy rates for the pay-per-view events, you'll notice they've been declining. I think one thing that WWE must do is figure out a way to make its secondary pay-per-view shows a must-purchase item for the part of the fan base that falls outside of the hardcore wrestling viewer but doesn't exactly reach the realm of the casual audience. If the company can bring shows like The Great American Bash and Unforgiven up to the level of a SummerSlam, then the company will really be on a growth track.
Thing is, though, that is easier said than done. In fact, categorizing that goal as being easier said than done is probably one of the biggest understatements I've ever written. Those who watch wrestling realize that trying to make every event a regular Royal Rumble would put a heck of a lot of pressure on the grappling talent. WWE needs to inject its storylines with that often talked about X factor so that fans will come back to the cable boxes. WWE is no different than a Disney or a Viacom -- when your product is losing viewers, it's time to break out the creative magic (as well as the marketing mojo).
WWE does seem to want change, however. According to this press release, a new COO has been installed. Donna Goldsmith from the consumer-products segment will replace Mike Sileck in that capacity. The message to Wall Street is clear: WWE knows that a new direction is needed, and it's willing to see if an executive shift can act as a positive catalyst. She had better, because WWE wants to maintain its dividend. The investments being made in the company's movie assets are, in part, essentially sacrificing the cash-flow statement for future growth (working-capital changes also affected cash flows, it should be noted).
Things will be fine long-term if those investments reap a stellar return on capital. Hopefully Goldsmith can help steer that division to a higher level of prosperity. WWE's stock was near a 52-week low as of Thursday's market close, and I think it could make a good long-term investment. However, I would use a tight stop on it, and I would consider cautiously watching the price action before buying. No need to rush in right after this earnings report.
Disclosure: I own Disney; positions can change at any time.
Greg Tingle comment...
It's an excellent sign that the WWE top brass are doing something about the issues, rather than turning a blind eye and pretending that a problem or two doesn't exist. That's part of the reason it's a good thing to have family money tied up in a family business. It guarantees that enough people at the top of the chain give a rats, and won't let the company or the product go to crap. One might suspect that if America was operated like McMahon runs the WWE or if the UK was ran like the tightly run ship that Richard Branson's Virgin Group of Companies is, much of the Western world's finances would be in better shape and there wouldn't be so many Chapter 11's and worse on the books. It will be interesting to see how many weeks, or more likely months, it will take McMahon and the board to turn the ship around.
(Credit: BloggingStocks.com)
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
World Wrestling Entertainment reported results for the third quarter, and by just about all accounts, things were tough. Revenues were flat at $108.8 million. Net income on a per-share basis, however, dropped almost 42% to $0.07. Talk about getting slammed to the mat! But the really bad aspect was the cash-flow statement. This has been a constant theme as of late. The company's operational cash flow declined massively during the nine-month period, coming in at $17.7 million. Know how much money was paid out in dividends? Try almost $61 million. That's probably why WWE's stock yields over 10%.
So what's the problem here? A couple things. First, costs need to be controlled (the press release does mention this issue, as well as a desire to be more careful when it comes to capital expenditures). Second, CEO Linda McMahon has to get fans excited about wrestling again. If you look at the buy rates for the pay-per-view events, you'll notice they've been declining. I think one thing that WWE must do is figure out a way to make its secondary pay-per-view shows a must-purchase item for the part of the fan base that falls outside of the hardcore wrestling viewer but doesn't exactly reach the realm of the casual audience. If the company can bring shows like The Great American Bash and Unforgiven up to the level of a SummerSlam, then the company will really be on a growth track.
Thing is, though, that is easier said than done. In fact, categorizing that goal as being easier said than done is probably one of the biggest understatements I've ever written. Those who watch wrestling realize that trying to make every event a regular Royal Rumble would put a heck of a lot of pressure on the grappling talent. WWE needs to inject its storylines with that often talked about X factor so that fans will come back to the cable boxes. WWE is no different than a Disney or a Viacom -- when your product is losing viewers, it's time to break out the creative magic (as well as the marketing mojo).
WWE does seem to want change, however. According to this press release, a new COO has been installed. Donna Goldsmith from the consumer-products segment will replace Mike Sileck in that capacity. The message to Wall Street is clear: WWE knows that a new direction is needed, and it's willing to see if an executive shift can act as a positive catalyst. She had better, because WWE wants to maintain its dividend. The investments being made in the company's movie assets are, in part, essentially sacrificing the cash-flow statement for future growth (working-capital changes also affected cash flows, it should be noted).
Things will be fine long-term if those investments reap a stellar return on capital. Hopefully Goldsmith can help steer that division to a higher level of prosperity. WWE's stock was near a 52-week low as of Thursday's market close, and I think it could make a good long-term investment. However, I would use a tight stop on it, and I would consider cautiously watching the price action before buying. No need to rush in right after this earnings report.
Disclosure: I own Disney; positions can change at any time.
Greg Tingle comment...
It's an excellent sign that the WWE top brass are doing something about the issues, rather than turning a blind eye and pretending that a problem or two doesn't exist. That's part of the reason it's a good thing to have family money tied up in a family business. It guarantees that enough people at the top of the chain give a rats, and won't let the company or the product go to crap. One might suspect that if America was operated like McMahon runs the WWE or if the UK was ran like the tightly run ship that Richard Branson's Virgin Group of Companies is, much of the Western world's finances would be in better shape and there wouldn't be so many Chapter 11's and worse on the books. It will be interesting to see how many weeks, or more likely months, it will take McMahon and the board to turn the ship around.
(Credit: BloggingStocks.com)
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Friday, November 07, 2008
WWE COO Change
STAMFORD, Conn., Nov 06, 2008
Effective December 31, 2008, World Wrestling Entertainment will accept Mike Sileck's resignation as COO and member of the Board of Directors. Donna Goldsmith, Executive Vice President of Consumer Products, has been named as his successor.
Mike joined the company first as CFO in June, 2005 and was promoted to COO in February, 2007. "WWE has had the benefit of Mike's former experience from both USA Network and Monster Worldwide, and we appreciate the contributions Mike has made in both of the positions he has held in our company," said Chairman, Vince McMahon. Ms. Goldsmith came to WWE from the NBA and has been with the company for the past eight years. Per Mr. McMahon, "Donna's business savvy, proven management and leadership skills, along with in depth product knowledge makes her uniquely qualified to fill the COO position." In addition, effective today, Ms. Goldsmith has also been elected to serve on the Board of Directors.
Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide.
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.
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 the conditions of the markets for live events, broadcast television, cable television, pay-per-view, Internet, entertainment, professional sports, and licensed merchandise; acceptance of the Company's brands, media and merchandise within those markets; uncertainties relating to litigation; risks associated with producing live events both domestically and internationally; uncertainties associated with international markets; risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television distribution agreements; 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.
SOURCE: World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
World Wrestling Entertainment
Media:
Gary Davis, 203-353-5066
or
Investors:
Michael Weitz, 203-352-8642
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
STAMFORD, Conn., Nov 06, 2008
Effective December 31, 2008, World Wrestling Entertainment will accept Mike Sileck's resignation as COO and member of the Board of Directors. Donna Goldsmith, Executive Vice President of Consumer Products, has been named as his successor.
Mike joined the company first as CFO in June, 2005 and was promoted to COO in February, 2007. "WWE has had the benefit of Mike's former experience from both USA Network and Monster Worldwide, and we appreciate the contributions Mike has made in both of the positions he has held in our company," said Chairman, Vince McMahon. Ms. Goldsmith came to WWE from the NBA and has been with the company for the past eight years. Per Mr. McMahon, "Donna's business savvy, proven management and leadership skills, along with in depth product knowledge makes her uniquely qualified to fill the COO position." In addition, effective today, Ms. Goldsmith has also been elected to serve on the Board of Directors.
Additional information on World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide.
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.
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 the conditions of the markets for live events, broadcast television, cable television, pay-per-view, Internet, entertainment, professional sports, and licensed merchandise; acceptance of the Company's brands, media and merchandise within those markets; uncertainties relating to litigation; risks associated with producing live events both domestically and internationally; uncertainties associated with international markets; risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television distribution agreements; 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.
SOURCE: World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
World Wrestling Entertainment
Media:
Gary Davis, 203-353-5066
or
Investors:
Michael Weitz, 203-352-8642
Media Man Australia Profiles
WWE
Saturday, November 01, 2008
THQ to sponsor WWE’s Survivor Series European Tour
Press Release
THQ TO SPONSOR WORLD WRESTLING ENTERTAINMENT®’S SURVIVOR SERIES® EUROPEAN TOUR
Title Sponsorship to Support Upcoming Launch of WWE® SmackDown® vs. Raw® 2009
London - October 30, 2008 - THQ Inc., on behalf of THQ/JAKKS Pacific, Inc., today announced the company will serve as the title sponsor of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)’s Survivor Series European Tour.
The 22-date live tour will promote the launch of WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 through a number of on-site marketing initiatives across several major European markets.
The sponsorship will allow THQ to potentially reach more than 200,000 WWE fans expected to attend the live events across the UK, Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Switzerland through a host of brand activities tailored to each market, including ring branding, videogame sampling, crowd announcements and competition tie-ins.
“Through our sponsorship of WWE’s Survivor Series tour, we plan to bring even more to the experience of WWE fans attending a live event throughout Europe,” said Richard Williams, director, European marketing, THQ. “We understand how much WWE fans enjoy being part of the action, and we are confident that our contributions will only enhance their level of interaction.”
THQ sponsors all of WWE’s television programming in the UK (Sky Sports), France (RTL 9 & NT 1), Germany (D: SF and Premiere), Spain (Cuatro) and Italy (Sky Italia and Sky Sports 2).
ABOUT WORLD WRESTLING ENTERTAINMENT’S SURVIVOR SERIES TOUR
World Wrestling Entertainment’s 22-date Survivor Series tour gives its European fans the rare opportunity to experience the electrifying live action of WWE’s world-renowned Superstars and stunning Divas.
WWE’s Survivor Series Tour will explode into the following cities:
Raw Survivor Series Tour:
5 November, 2008 Mannheim, Germany
6 November, 2008 Milan, Italy
7 November, 2008 Rome, Italy
8 November, 2008 Minehead, United Kingdom
9 November, 2008 Sheffield, United Kingdom
10 November, 2008 Manchester, United Kingdom
11 November, 2008 Birmingham, United Kingdom
12 November, 2008 Newcastle, United Kingdom
13 November, 2008 Belfast, United Kingdom
14 November, 2008 Glasgow, United Kingdom
15 November, 2008 Aberdeen, United Kingdom
SmackDown & ECW Survivor Series Tour:
6 November, 2008 Nice, France
7 November, 2008 Brussels, Belgium
8 November, 2008 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
9 November, 2008 Cardiff, United Kingdom
10 November, 2008 London, United Kingdom
11 November, 2008 Manchester, United Kingdom
12 November, 2008 Nottingham, United Kingdom
13 November, 2008 Zurich, Switzerland
14 November, 2008 Nurnberg, Germany
15 November, 2008 Berlin, Germany
16 November, 2008 Dortmund, Germany
ABOUT WWE SMACKDOWN VS. RAW 2009
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 upholds the franchise’s commitment to delivering the definitive videogame simulation of live WWE programming.
The Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, PlayStation 2 system and PSP system versions of the game will unleash a brand new tag team experience, allowing players to build momentum and attributes, eliminate opponents with high impact double teams and finishers, as well as get the “hot tag” for the win. The franchise’s renowned creation system offers a brand new Create-A-Finisher option, while a new Road to WrestleMania Mode paves the way to WWE’s biggest event of the year and lets players experience co-op storylines for the first time. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 also extends the virtual WWE gameplay experience with robust online capabilities, including the highly anticipated debut of downloadable content.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 for Wii builds upon its inaugural offering by significantly expanding its match type options, giving players more ways to enjoy the platform’s unique pick-up-and-play experience. Gameplay advances to the next level, giving players more Superstar control with interactive entrances and victory scenes. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 for Wii will also include a wide variety of new weapons, the debut of online gameplay and much more.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 for Nintendo DS returns with new gameplay controls that utilize the stylus and D-pad to deliver a compelling handheld fighting game experience. The redesigned Season Mode takes a role-playing approach, allowing players to interact with Superstars, upgrade their abilities and complete missions on a quest toward legendary goals. In addition, a larger Superstar roster, new match types and the inclusion of Create-A-Superstar will provide players with a variety of intriguing options to enhance gameplay.
More information about WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 can be found at www.smackdownvsraw.com and www.thq.com.
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.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Raw VS Smackdown
WWE
Press Release
THQ TO SPONSOR WORLD WRESTLING ENTERTAINMENT®’S SURVIVOR SERIES® EUROPEAN TOUR
Title Sponsorship to Support Upcoming Launch of WWE® SmackDown® vs. Raw® 2009
London - October 30, 2008 - THQ Inc., on behalf of THQ/JAKKS Pacific, Inc., today announced the company will serve as the title sponsor of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)’s Survivor Series European Tour.
The 22-date live tour will promote the launch of WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 through a number of on-site marketing initiatives across several major European markets.
The sponsorship will allow THQ to potentially reach more than 200,000 WWE fans expected to attend the live events across the UK, Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Switzerland through a host of brand activities tailored to each market, including ring branding, videogame sampling, crowd announcements and competition tie-ins.
“Through our sponsorship of WWE’s Survivor Series tour, we plan to bring even more to the experience of WWE fans attending a live event throughout Europe,” said Richard Williams, director, European marketing, THQ. “We understand how much WWE fans enjoy being part of the action, and we are confident that our contributions will only enhance their level of interaction.”
THQ sponsors all of WWE’s television programming in the UK (Sky Sports), France (RTL 9 & NT 1), Germany (D: SF and Premiere), Spain (Cuatro) and Italy (Sky Italia and Sky Sports 2).
ABOUT WORLD WRESTLING ENTERTAINMENT’S SURVIVOR SERIES TOUR
World Wrestling Entertainment’s 22-date Survivor Series tour gives its European fans the rare opportunity to experience the electrifying live action of WWE’s world-renowned Superstars and stunning Divas.
WWE’s Survivor Series Tour will explode into the following cities:
Raw Survivor Series Tour:
5 November, 2008 Mannheim, Germany
6 November, 2008 Milan, Italy
7 November, 2008 Rome, Italy
8 November, 2008 Minehead, United Kingdom
9 November, 2008 Sheffield, United Kingdom
10 November, 2008 Manchester, United Kingdom
11 November, 2008 Birmingham, United Kingdom
12 November, 2008 Newcastle, United Kingdom
13 November, 2008 Belfast, United Kingdom
14 November, 2008 Glasgow, United Kingdom
15 November, 2008 Aberdeen, United Kingdom
SmackDown & ECW Survivor Series Tour:
6 November, 2008 Nice, France
7 November, 2008 Brussels, Belgium
8 November, 2008 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
9 November, 2008 Cardiff, United Kingdom
10 November, 2008 London, United Kingdom
11 November, 2008 Manchester, United Kingdom
12 November, 2008 Nottingham, United Kingdom
13 November, 2008 Zurich, Switzerland
14 November, 2008 Nurnberg, Germany
15 November, 2008 Berlin, Germany
16 November, 2008 Dortmund, Germany
ABOUT WWE SMACKDOWN VS. RAW 2009
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 upholds the franchise’s commitment to delivering the definitive videogame simulation of live WWE programming.
The Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, PlayStation 2 system and PSP system versions of the game will unleash a brand new tag team experience, allowing players to build momentum and attributes, eliminate opponents with high impact double teams and finishers, as well as get the “hot tag” for the win. The franchise’s renowned creation system offers a brand new Create-A-Finisher option, while a new Road to WrestleMania Mode paves the way to WWE’s biggest event of the year and lets players experience co-op storylines for the first time. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 also extends the virtual WWE gameplay experience with robust online capabilities, including the highly anticipated debut of downloadable content.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 for Wii builds upon its inaugural offering by significantly expanding its match type options, giving players more ways to enjoy the platform’s unique pick-up-and-play experience. Gameplay advances to the next level, giving players more Superstar control with interactive entrances and victory scenes. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 for Wii will also include a wide variety of new weapons, the debut of online gameplay and much more.
WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 for Nintendo DS returns with new gameplay controls that utilize the stylus and D-pad to deliver a compelling handheld fighting game experience. The redesigned Season Mode takes a role-playing approach, allowing players to interact with Superstars, upgrade their abilities and complete missions on a quest toward legendary goals. In addition, a larger Superstar roster, new match types and the inclusion of Create-A-Superstar will provide players with a variety of intriguing options to enhance gameplay.
More information about WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 can be found at www.smackdownvsraw.com and www.thq.com.
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.
Media Man Australia Profiles
Raw VS Smackdown
WWE
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)