Steve Austin spoke with ESPN.com this week to promote the release of WWE All Stars. Here are some highlights:
So how perfect of a feud would "Stone Cold" versus CM Punk have been if you were still wrestling?
When you have a storyline like that, and the way CM cuts his promos, I think it would damn sure be entertaining and fans would latch onto it. He's done well in WWE, and I think he's got bigger fish to fry and bigger things to do in that company. I look for big things from him. And damn right, that would be a good program. I would love to be a part of that.
Wrestlemania is coming up this Sunday and you're refereeing the match between Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler. How did it feel the other night to dump all that beer over Cole's head?
Damn, that was fun. [laughs] Michael Cole has done a tremendous job playing the role of the heel announcer. He has that cocky swagger about him, and he's crossed that line to where now you're seeing the true Michael Cole. He's a good guy, but he's really turning it on. I've been really proud of what he's done from a work standpoint. Then you have Jerry Lawler, who is one of my favorite wrestlers of all time. If you never saw him work in his prime or never saw some of his work in the Mid South, then you really missed out. He's a great talker, a great worker in the ring, and there's no better person to be in this match with Cole than Lawler. Then you have me as the referee and Jack Swagger roaming ringside and I think anything can happen that night.
When you're pouring beer on Michael Cole and the crowd is going crazy and people start to chant: "One more match," do you ever get the itch to come back for maybe one more main event?
I'll tell you what, sometimes you do, but it's just like an itch that you scratch and it goes away. We had that ring at Tough Enough, and it's the same WWE ring they use every week, and I got the chance to bounce around and take some bumps from one of the kids in the contest and gave him a few bumps. Could I still do it? Damn right I could. It may not be quite as good as I used to, but I got it out of my system. I hope people enjoy Tough Enough because I had so much fun doing it, but that's about as close as I want to be to a business that I love.
The other big storyline in WWE right now is the return of The Rock. What did you think of him getting physical with Miz and Cena on Monday night?
I thought it was great entertainment. It's good for Rock, it's good for John, it's good for Miz, and it's good for the fans. Everybody is winning all the way around. He got out of the business and went on to do what he's done and I'm proud of how successful he has become. But now that he's back, it's a win-win for everybody, but especially the fans. Whether you love him or you hate him, depending on what your opinion of Cena is, he's definitely made an impact and it will be interesting to see how this thing plays out.
Thursday, 31 March 2011
Wednesday, 30 March 2011
Road Warrior Animal Interview Highlights
Road Warrior Animal appeared on Right After Wrestling this week and had the following to say about The Road Warriors and Paul Ellering going into the WWE Hall of Fame this year:
"Well you know how it is. Jealousy is the greatest equalizer (in our business) sometimes. Guys who don’t get invited to it…it’s just jealousy. You look at the path people take in this business, and I knew it was going to be sooner-or-later."
Animal also revealed that WWE is still working on a physical building for the Hall of Fame in Florida. He said:
"WWE is looking at a big building in Tampa. I’m gonna donate some of my gear there – maybe some of my spiked-shoulder pads will go in the Hall. They’re getting stuff from everybody. And it’s gonna be an attraction – some place where fans can go. It’s gonna be like the pro-football hall of fame."
"Well you know how it is. Jealousy is the greatest equalizer (in our business) sometimes. Guys who don’t get invited to it…it’s just jealousy. You look at the path people take in this business, and I knew it was going to be sooner-or-later."
Animal also revealed that WWE is still working on a physical building for the Hall of Fame in Florida. He said:
"WWE is looking at a big building in Tampa. I’m gonna donate some of my gear there – maybe some of my spiked-shoulder pads will go in the Hall. They’re getting stuff from everybody. And it’s gonna be an attraction – some place where fans can go. It’s gonna be like the pro-football hall of fame."
Molly Holly Interview Highlights
Former WWE Diva Molly Holly (Nora Benshoof) recently spoke with EveningTribune.com to promote the 38th Annual Sports Night in Hornsell, NY. Here are some highlights:
Your last appearance was Dec. 10, 2007 during the Raw 15th Anniversary Show. What have you been doing since retiring from WWE?
The last time that I wrestled on television was at WrestleMania 25 just a couple of years ago. I do cameos on TV every now and then if they ask me to, but I don’t wrestle for a living anymore. Now I work in a drug and alcohol prevention program where I do presentations in the health classes of junior and senior high schools throughout the Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul.
You were married a little less than a year ago to Geno Benshoof in White Bear Lake, Minnesota. How’s married life been treating you?
I wasn’t sure if I’d like being married because I really liked being single. But it turns out that married life is awesome. My husband and I have so much fun together. We spend a lot of time at church. My husband leads a praise and worship group at church. And we also spend time with my nieces and nephews.
What’s next for you in terms of wrestling or entertainment?
I have no interest in pursuing a career in entertainment anymore. I’ve already accomplished all of my goals when it comes to that. I’m really happy doing what I’m doing now because it has nothing to do with being famous. I love being a part of fundraisers and charity events such as this.
Your last appearance was Dec. 10, 2007 during the Raw 15th Anniversary Show. What have you been doing since retiring from WWE?
The last time that I wrestled on television was at WrestleMania 25 just a couple of years ago. I do cameos on TV every now and then if they ask me to, but I don’t wrestle for a living anymore. Now I work in a drug and alcohol prevention program where I do presentations in the health classes of junior and senior high schools throughout the Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul.
You were married a little less than a year ago to Geno Benshoof in White Bear Lake, Minnesota. How’s married life been treating you?
I wasn’t sure if I’d like being married because I really liked being single. But it turns out that married life is awesome. My husband and I have so much fun together. We spend a lot of time at church. My husband leads a praise and worship group at church. And we also spend time with my nieces and nephews.
What’s next for you in terms of wrestling or entertainment?
I have no interest in pursuing a career in entertainment anymore. I’ve already accomplished all of my goals when it comes to that. I’m really happy doing what I’m doing now because it has nothing to do with being famous. I love being a part of fundraisers and charity events such as this.
Kevin Nash Interview Highlights
Kevin Nash recently spoke with CLATL.com to promote his party in Atlanta this week. Here are some highlights:
Before the Royal Rumble, you worked for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling for a few years. What is your role with WWE now?
For me, right now at almost 52 years old, I really don't want to be bouncing around too much. I'm blessed that I can get around as well as I can after being beat up for so many years. But I'd still like to do anything I can do to help the young guys and help the federation move forward. So we're going to sit down over 'Mania weekend and the weeks after that, look at some options, and see what works for them and what works for myself and move forward.
Will you be involved in WrestleMania at all?
I haven't been told anything, but like any good pro wrestler, I'll definitely pack my gear because you never know when somebody's going to go down and they need a body. So I'll make sure I have my gear on me in case I am needed. But I will be signing at the fan Axxess for them under my Legends contract. It'll be nice to get back down there, and WrestleMania's always special. It's the Super Bowl of wrestling, and it's nice to be part of the whole weekend. And to do our own little thing to kick it off is something that's special to me because I've never tried to do anything like this before and it's gotten a good response.
Before the Royal Rumble, you worked for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling for a few years. What is your role with WWE now?
For me, right now at almost 52 years old, I really don't want to be bouncing around too much. I'm blessed that I can get around as well as I can after being beat up for so many years. But I'd still like to do anything I can do to help the young guys and help the federation move forward. So we're going to sit down over 'Mania weekend and the weeks after that, look at some options, and see what works for them and what works for myself and move forward.
Will you be involved in WrestleMania at all?
I haven't been told anything, but like any good pro wrestler, I'll definitely pack my gear because you never know when somebody's going to go down and they need a body. So I'll make sure I have my gear on me in case I am needed. But I will be signing at the fan Axxess for them under my Legends contract. It'll be nice to get back down there, and WrestleMania's always special. It's the Super Bowl of wrestling, and it's nice to be part of the whole weekend. And to do our own little thing to kick it off is something that's special to me because I've never tried to do anything like this before and it's gotten a good response.
Finlay Fired By WWE
FIT FOR THE SCRAP HEAP!,
BY PHIL ALLELY.
According to numerous sources the wwe have released the highly regarded backstage producer Dave 'Fit' Finlay. Known as simply Finlay during his ten years with the WWE, the Belfast native third generation wrestler has been a key factor in the success of the divas division, wrestled many memorable matches and been instrumental in developing new/young talent for the company. Full details of his release are sketchy, but many believe he has become a fall guy for the company over a house show incident this past weekend & may return down the line. Finlay's career streches back to 1974 and saw him headline events in Ireland, the UK, Japan and Europe, before The Belfast Bruiser hit the big time in the US and joined WCW and later the WWE. The veteran grappler semi-retired from in ring competition last year, but is still known to fans today as the storyline father of Hornswoggle and still commands respect whenever he makes appearances for the WWE. His loss will be felt my many with the locker room.
BY PHIL ALLELY.
According to numerous sources the wwe have released the highly regarded backstage producer Dave 'Fit' Finlay. Known as simply Finlay during his ten years with the WWE, the Belfast native third generation wrestler has been a key factor in the success of the divas division, wrestled many memorable matches and been instrumental in developing new/young talent for the company. Full details of his release are sketchy, but many believe he has become a fall guy for the company over a house show incident this past weekend & may return down the line. Finlay's career streches back to 1974 and saw him headline events in Ireland, the UK, Japan and Europe, before The Belfast Bruiser hit the big time in the US and joined WCW and later the WWE. The veteran grappler semi-retired from in ring competition last year, but is still known to fans today as the storyline father of Hornswoggle and still commands respect whenever he makes appearances for the WWE. His loss will be felt my many with the locker room.
Interview With Jeremy Borash
http://www.sportvibe.co.uk/ interview with Jeremy Borash.
However across the pond in the United States wrestling is a billion dollar industry and TNA (Total Nonstop Action) are making a real impact on the wrestling scene competing with the likes of the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment).
This modern day company is a far cry from the wrestling witnessed by British fans in the 70’s. Today the wrestlers are some of the finest athletes in sport, putting their bodies on the line all for the entertainment of the raucous crowds.
http://www.sportsvibe.co.uk/articles/other/jeremy-borash-on-why-wrestling-can-be-a-uk-success/
The company was founded in 2002 and one man that has been there from the start is ring announcer Jeremy Borash. Given the role of interviewing wrestlers, geeing up the crowd and creating a pulsating atmosphere, Borash is a core member of the successful company.
“I was the first employee in the company and have seen an idea born on a boat,” Borash said. “Nine years down the line, we are seen world wide across all four corners of the globe.
“Not everyone has the experience of being able to take an idea like that and seeing it through all the way. I will always have a huge place in my heart for TNA, I feel like I have helped give birth to this idea.”
TNA have toured over in the United Kingdom for the last three years, each time there have been sell-out crowds in all the arenas they have performed in.
The 36-year-old ring announcer believes that one day in the not to distant future we will see an episode of TNA’s flagship show IMPACT! or even a PPV (Pay Per View) filmed in the UK.
“I would love to say yes and we will be able to film an episode of IMPACT! in the UK tomorrow,” Borash continued. “When it happens it will be the greatest IMPACT! ever, I know that because the crowd would be insane.
“There is a lot of work to make that happen, but when we’re ready it will happen, and I can’t wait. The Wembley Arena show and M.E.N show we did during our last tour will be incredible on PPV.”
At the moment, not just in TNA, but also in rival promotions, there are a number of British wrestlers plying their trade in the States. However the World Championship is the one belt that has eluded the Brits over in America, but Borash doesn’t think it will be long before we see a British grappler hold the main title in TNA.
“It should have already happened,” the 36-year-old continued. “There is great talent that we have and more that we are yet to discover.
“Desmond Wolfe is incredible, Doug Williams is excellent. Magnus is only 24-years-old, he can already talk and if I was to pick the next huge breakout star in this business Magnus has got it, he has everything
“Just the experience he has already got at such a young age. I remember his first night when he came out at Wembley, none of us knew what to expect, but now we do it is just a matter of watching him soar.”
Away from the ring, Borash is a regular user of Twitter and revealed a surprising person that he follows from the British sporting world.
“The most famous person I follow on Twitter is Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor,” Borash revealed. “As far as I’m concerned he is tops, he’s the man. My dream is that one day I will be able to say the numbers ‘180’ and I will say it like it has never been said before.
“My first introduction to darts was 10 years ago over in England, and the announcers would hook me on it with the crowd and everything.
“I brought darts over to the states and showed the guys in the locker-room, and they are hooked, they watch it and say ‘this is amazing’ and that type of crowd reaction is something you only get in the UK.”
Many Brits may not have embraced wrestling yet, but darts is a prime example of how the British audiences love to be entertained and there are many similarities between the two sports with all the razzmatazz to get the crowds involved in the action.
If TNA keeps growing across the pond and during their arena tours of the UK, there is no reason why the sport can’t become as successful on these shores.
However across the pond in the United States wrestling is a billion dollar industry and TNA (Total Nonstop Action) are making a real impact on the wrestling scene competing with the likes of the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment).
This modern day company is a far cry from the wrestling witnessed by British fans in the 70’s. Today the wrestlers are some of the finest athletes in sport, putting their bodies on the line all for the entertainment of the raucous crowds.
http://www.sportsvibe.co.uk/articles/other/jeremy-borash-on-why-wrestling-can-be-a-uk-success/
The company was founded in 2002 and one man that has been there from the start is ring announcer Jeremy Borash. Given the role of interviewing wrestlers, geeing up the crowd and creating a pulsating atmosphere, Borash is a core member of the successful company.
“I was the first employee in the company and have seen an idea born on a boat,” Borash said. “Nine years down the line, we are seen world wide across all four corners of the globe.
“Not everyone has the experience of being able to take an idea like that and seeing it through all the way. I will always have a huge place in my heart for TNA, I feel like I have helped give birth to this idea.”
TNA have toured over in the United Kingdom for the last three years, each time there have been sell-out crowds in all the arenas they have performed in.
The 36-year-old ring announcer believes that one day in the not to distant future we will see an episode of TNA’s flagship show IMPACT! or even a PPV (Pay Per View) filmed in the UK.
“I would love to say yes and we will be able to film an episode of IMPACT! in the UK tomorrow,” Borash continued. “When it happens it will be the greatest IMPACT! ever, I know that because the crowd would be insane.
“There is a lot of work to make that happen, but when we’re ready it will happen, and I can’t wait. The Wembley Arena show and M.E.N show we did during our last tour will be incredible on PPV.”
At the moment, not just in TNA, but also in rival promotions, there are a number of British wrestlers plying their trade in the States. However the World Championship is the one belt that has eluded the Brits over in America, but Borash doesn’t think it will be long before we see a British grappler hold the main title in TNA.
“It should have already happened,” the 36-year-old continued. “There is great talent that we have and more that we are yet to discover.
“Desmond Wolfe is incredible, Doug Williams is excellent. Magnus is only 24-years-old, he can already talk and if I was to pick the next huge breakout star in this business Magnus has got it, he has everything
“Just the experience he has already got at such a young age. I remember his first night when he came out at Wembley, none of us knew what to expect, but now we do it is just a matter of watching him soar.”
Away from the ring, Borash is a regular user of Twitter and revealed a surprising person that he follows from the British sporting world.
“The most famous person I follow on Twitter is Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor,” Borash revealed. “As far as I’m concerned he is tops, he’s the man. My dream is that one day I will be able to say the numbers ‘180’ and I will say it like it has never been said before.
“My first introduction to darts was 10 years ago over in England, and the announcers would hook me on it with the crowd and everything.
“I brought darts over to the states and showed the guys in the locker-room, and they are hooked, they watch it and say ‘this is amazing’ and that type of crowd reaction is something you only get in the UK.”
Many Brits may not have embraced wrestling yet, but darts is a prime example of how the British audiences love to be entertained and there are many similarities between the two sports with all the razzmatazz to get the crowds involved in the action.
If TNA keeps growing across the pond and during their arena tours of the UK, there is no reason why the sport can’t become as successful on these shores.
Jerry Lawler Interview Highlights
WWE Hall of Famer Jerry Lawler spoke with IGN this week to promote his WrestleMania 27 match with Michael Cole. Here are some highlights:
You're facing off against Michael Cole at WrestleMania. Since this is your first WrestleMania match ever, would you have preferred it be against an actual wrestler?
Would I have preferred for it to be a wrestler? Maybe at first. But now, looking back on the way this has all unfolded and the way it's going to be now, I couldn't have had a better opponent. Especially now that it's so reminiscent of the actual Andy Kaufman feud. I mean here, just like Andy, I'm going in the ring against a guy who's never competed. Not only at WrestleMania, but anywhere. So the curiosity factor of what will be going through Michael Cole's mind, other than my fist, makes this the perfect match up here. The people want to see Michael Cole get completely destroyed. They know without the help of Jack Swagger he's going to be helpless and they know that with "Stone Cold" Steve Austin being in the match as the referee, they know he's not going to put up with interference and foolishness. So it'll just come down to me and Cole once that bell rings. So, to me, that's perfect. Because if I can't put a major league whooping on Michael Cole, after all the years I've been in the business, then something's wrong.
Do you think Cole has a better chance of getting a piledriver or a stunner at WrestleMania?
Well, I would say probably a stunner. Without a doubt. It's in his future somewhere along the line. Maybe once the match is over. But you know what? The WWE has become so health conscious about concussions. It's been in the news, what with football players not allowed to have helmet to helmet contact anymore. So they've actually banned piledrivers. You know, the piledriver move consists of turning your opponent upside head and dropping them on the top of their head. Which is what I used as my career finishing move for so many years. So I'm not going to be able to give Cole a piledriver. But if you remember, it was always illegal. Even back in Tennessee when I gave Andy Kaufman the two piledrivers, it actually cost me the victory. Andy was actually awarded the match and the victory because I used the piledrivers, but I just wanted to prove a point and I felt like I wanted to hurt Andy just to let him know what the business was really like. And even though I do feel the same way, I feel like I have to hurt Michael Cole. I feel like if I let a guy who's never been in a match before go into the biggest match of my career and come out unscathed, it's going to make everything I've ever done look like a joke. So I plan on making Michael Cole's next stop, after he gets to the Georgia Dome, be the hospital.
Many feel nowadays that The Undertaker's streak, and any match where his streak is on the line, is more of a marquee event than title matches at WrestleMania. Do you agree?
You know what? I do. And simply because, with what we talked about a minute ago with me and Michael Cole, I think that becomes personal. Because you know it's a huge personal thing for The Undertaker that he's gone 18 years without losing at WrestleMania. So that streak of his is a tremendous accomplishment and he's got to take it as a major personal threat or affront when someone challenges him. And with Triple H, who's been best friends with Shawn Michael for years and Shawn Michaels having gone out in a blaze of glory last year not being able to break Undertaker's streak… You know it's got to be personal for Triple H. And it means everything to him to try and do something his best friend couldn't do. And maybe he's doing it for his best friend. And maybe it's that little bit of emotion where he's saying "Look at this Shawn. I'm going to do something you couldn't do." But who knows? You know it's a personal thing for Triple H to win this match. Yes, you can sometimes have match that, to the fans, have that little extra bit of significance. More so than just – and I don't want to say just a title match – but we see a lot of title matches. The champion has to defend the title on a regular basis. But you don't always see matches that have personal issues riding on it.
You're facing off against Michael Cole at WrestleMania. Since this is your first WrestleMania match ever, would you have preferred it be against an actual wrestler?
Would I have preferred for it to be a wrestler? Maybe at first. But now, looking back on the way this has all unfolded and the way it's going to be now, I couldn't have had a better opponent. Especially now that it's so reminiscent of the actual Andy Kaufman feud. I mean here, just like Andy, I'm going in the ring against a guy who's never competed. Not only at WrestleMania, but anywhere. So the curiosity factor of what will be going through Michael Cole's mind, other than my fist, makes this the perfect match up here. The people want to see Michael Cole get completely destroyed. They know without the help of Jack Swagger he's going to be helpless and they know that with "Stone Cold" Steve Austin being in the match as the referee, they know he's not going to put up with interference and foolishness. So it'll just come down to me and Cole once that bell rings. So, to me, that's perfect. Because if I can't put a major league whooping on Michael Cole, after all the years I've been in the business, then something's wrong.
Do you think Cole has a better chance of getting a piledriver or a stunner at WrestleMania?
Well, I would say probably a stunner. Without a doubt. It's in his future somewhere along the line. Maybe once the match is over. But you know what? The WWE has become so health conscious about concussions. It's been in the news, what with football players not allowed to have helmet to helmet contact anymore. So they've actually banned piledrivers. You know, the piledriver move consists of turning your opponent upside head and dropping them on the top of their head. Which is what I used as my career finishing move for so many years. So I'm not going to be able to give Cole a piledriver. But if you remember, it was always illegal. Even back in Tennessee when I gave Andy Kaufman the two piledrivers, it actually cost me the victory. Andy was actually awarded the match and the victory because I used the piledrivers, but I just wanted to prove a point and I felt like I wanted to hurt Andy just to let him know what the business was really like. And even though I do feel the same way, I feel like I have to hurt Michael Cole. I feel like if I let a guy who's never been in a match before go into the biggest match of my career and come out unscathed, it's going to make everything I've ever done look like a joke. So I plan on making Michael Cole's next stop, after he gets to the Georgia Dome, be the hospital.
Many feel nowadays that The Undertaker's streak, and any match where his streak is on the line, is more of a marquee event than title matches at WrestleMania. Do you agree?
You know what? I do. And simply because, with what we talked about a minute ago with me and Michael Cole, I think that becomes personal. Because you know it's a huge personal thing for The Undertaker that he's gone 18 years without losing at WrestleMania. So that streak of his is a tremendous accomplishment and he's got to take it as a major personal threat or affront when someone challenges him. And with Triple H, who's been best friends with Shawn Michael for years and Shawn Michaels having gone out in a blaze of glory last year not being able to break Undertaker's streak… You know it's got to be personal for Triple H. And it means everything to him to try and do something his best friend couldn't do. And maybe he's doing it for his best friend. And maybe it's that little bit of emotion where he's saying "Look at this Shawn. I'm going to do something you couldn't do." But who knows? You know it's a personal thing for Triple H to win this match. Yes, you can sometimes have match that, to the fans, have that little extra bit of significance. More so than just – and I don't want to say just a title match – but we see a lot of title matches. The champion has to defend the title on a regular basis. But you don't always see matches that have personal issues riding on it.
Tuesday, 29 March 2011
Rob Van Dam Exclusive Interview
By Phil Allely
This past January (during the first leg of the UK Maximum Impact tour) Phil Allely was fortunate enough to chat with former TNA Heavyweight Champion Rob Van Dam about how his life has changed since he decided to take a spot in TNA.
Leaving the WWE after a long run the former ECW headliner had no immediate intentions of returning to the world of wrestling unless it was on his terms and the company he chose to work for gave him the backing he felt his former employers never really did.
“I was fortunate enough to be able to pick and chose what I wanted to do when I left the WWE, so many of the guys can’t afford to do that for various reasons. I just needed to recharge my batteries, pursue my many outside interests and see if I still wanted to step back in the ring again.”
During his break from mainstream wrestling the former ECW star was a major part of American Wrestling Rampage’s European Tour, there he shared the ring with Sabu, Scotty Too Hotty, Kid Kash and Sean Waltman amongst others. Tearing down houses and seemingly relighting along absent inner fire along the way.
“I loved those shows, you know Sabu is one of my closest friends and we enjoyed bringing back that ECW element to something like that. We did some crazy things in some very intimate venues and they went down a storm. It was great to be able to take our extreme influenced performances to people who only ever saw us on video or DVD. Those small arenas were just what I needed to get myself back into the frame of mind to compete again. But we knew it was a limited thing, we can’t keep doing that year in year out. I’d love to have him (Sabu) here with me now in TNA, but as Dixie has explained his stint here wasn’t long term and I understand that. We are in a business after all and he had a decent run before he moved on“.
Many were not shocked by Van Dam’s jump to TNA, but when it was mentioned he may be seeking work for Dixie Carter’s company there were rumours he may have been approached by the WWE in an attempt to stop another big name joining the opposition.
“Man I love TNA, it’s a wonderful place to work (after some of the places I was in before) I was probably one of the last guys approached by them though. There were big plans in motion it seems (if I’d joined right away) a spot in the Main Event Mafia was brought up, but I’m not and never have been one for sharing the spotlight, I prefer to be the star and in the limelight by myself. Plus I’d just came out of the WWE, I was ready for a break from the business at that point so that plan went away. WWE had really burnt me out, my contract stated I’d be given breaks and they never gave them to me, I heard many excuses why and wasn‘t happy about it. You know they did that constantly and they probably wrecked the chances of many guys going back by treating the talent that way. “When my contract ended (with the WWE) I just needed time to clear my head and find myself. Yes TNA tried to get me straight away, they tried (to hit me for my wrestling) passion and I said no. Bischoff called me, Dixie Carter called me, even Jason Hervey picked up the phone. But I said to myself they are not serious because Hogan hasn’t called yet.
Then he did, I was doing my radio show and he called in. The guy spent a half hour explaining on the air why I should join him in TNA.“
Hogan was at that point the major player in TNA and instead of filling the top tier of the company with his hangers on (like he had in WCW) he seemed to go head hunting genuine talent that would benefit Dixie Carter’s group as it grew and re-built its sometimes tarnished reputation.
“That was what got me here, Hulk is the most recognised guy there is in the industry, I value his opinion and knew he was doing what he felt was best for us all when he brought guys like myself to TNA. He has a presence, no matter where he features in the company he can make a difference, he may not be performing any more after his surgery, but he can still entertain and do what he does best, be a legend. People will always want to see him.”
RVD has pursued many outside interests since he left the WWE and continues to do so. Opening comic book stores, acting, hosting a radio show and creating his own reality TV series.
“Something WWE never let me do were acting jobs, they turned them down for me, but now (being in TNA) I’ m in a situation where I can do these things. WWE just didn’t see the potential of these opportunities and they really ruined my chances back then. I was in some very good places and they (WWE) just blew it for me, by refusing point blank to negotiate anything. Whereas Dixie let’s us explore our possibilities and gives us that chance. Her philosophy is that our extended profile helps TNA enhance its own and of course it does.”
Dixie Carter has been the driving force behind TNA for most of its life and continues to work very hard in making her brand a more family friendly, approachable and personable one than its rival. Van Dam like the every roster member we interview has only good things to say about the company President.
“Dixie is a real people person, she is what fuels TNA, we all feed of her enthusiasm for the company. She wants first hand connection with our fans. It’s so different to how Vince runs his company. At this stage of my career they take so much better care of me, than the WWE ever did at any point. I’d go as far as to say I mean more to TNA than I did at any point with them.”
TNA’s roster has featured/still features many former WWE/WCW/ECW, who work very well with their own homegrown talent, allowing both to thrive in the organisation. Many former big names though have tried and failed in TNA, their fate is something that Rob understands and explains with ease.
“I for one love the freedom here and I know the other guys do too. There are many people who want to work here that find the opportunity isn’t the easy ride they expected it to be. An awful lot of them can’t meet the standards and be in the same zone as the rest of us are. I mean look at Sabu, he has had an unbelievable career and yet he was let go, no matter who you are you need to prove yourself and if you don’t you’re gone. This company needs to continually trim the fat to keep ourselves up where we are. We need to be consistent. It keeps you on your toes.”
If the WWE came calling would Rob return for one last run, like some of his peers such as Booker T and Kevin Nash.
“You know fair play to anyone who does go back, but you know I was so burnt out and had so much trouble in my last year there that I just wanted away from that scenario. I couldn’t enjoy going out to the ring and doing my thing, it was killing me. My contract ended and I wanted out, they offered me a new one and I said no. I’m so happy being able to have the freedom at last to juggle my other projects and still go out each night and be the whole f’n show.”
WWE Hall of Fame 2011 final list
Below is the final list of entrants into the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame class:
* Shawn Michaels
* The Road Warriors & Paul Ellering (Reportedly inducted by Dusty Rhodes)
* Sunny
* Hacksaw Jim Duggan (Inducted by Ted DiBiase)
* Bullet Bob Armstrong (Reportedly inducted by his sons)
* Abdullah the Butcher (Inducted by Terry Funk)
* Drew Carey (Inducted by Bob Barker)
* Shawn Michaels
* The Road Warriors & Paul Ellering (Reportedly inducted by Dusty Rhodes)
* Sunny
* Hacksaw Jim Duggan (Inducted by Ted DiBiase)
* Bullet Bob Armstrong (Reportedly inducted by his sons)
* Abdullah the Butcher (Inducted by Terry Funk)
* Drew Carey (Inducted by Bob Barker)
Maria Kanellis Interview Highlights
Former WWE Diva Maria Kanellis spoke with The Poughkeepsie Journal this weekend. Here are some highlights:
It seems like you’re pretty busy, doing a lot of different stuff right now.
Yeah, I am. I’m keeping busy. It’s the first time in my life that I’ve actually had time to myself to decide what I want to do next. I got into WWE when I was so young that I really hadn’t experienced that much yet. It’s the first time in my life that I’m able to do what I want to do. Experiencing new things. I loved working for WWE. It was an incredible experience, but I’m trying other stuff. Perfume. My new perfume line just came out (available here) online. You can find it online if you just look up Maria Kanellis Signature Perfume. I’m doing short films for friends. I’m doing a feature this summer. It’s not a huge feature. I’m writing two films. It’s crazy, so busy.
Sounds like an exciting time. Like you said, trying to figure out what you want to do?
Who knows? I might end up doing some more wrestling. I don’t know if I will or not. I miss it. I miss the crowds. I miss the people. I miss going out there and having that instant gratification. If you do an incredible move or something amazing happens in the ring, I miss that.
When you came up through the Diva Search, did you expect to be wrestling?
No. I loved Jonathan Coachman. I loved what he and The Rock were doing. When they asked me in the Diva Search what I wanted to do, I told Coach, ‘I want to do what you do. I want to call you a popcorn fart just like The Rock did.’ They sent me to the next round. That’s what I thought I was going to do. Then, once you get in it, I want to do the physicality. I want to do all of that stuff. I just did.
Was that surprising to you? When did you realize, OK, I’m a wrestler now and I’m wrestling matches?
I never was. I never considered myself a full-time wrestler because I wasn’t always doing matches. A lot of times, I would do one little thing here or there to make the heel be a heel. It wasn’t like I was a full-time wrestler. A lot of times, I was the girlfriend, which is fine with me. I loved all aspects of it.
It seems like you’re pretty busy, doing a lot of different stuff right now.
Yeah, I am. I’m keeping busy. It’s the first time in my life that I’ve actually had time to myself to decide what I want to do next. I got into WWE when I was so young that I really hadn’t experienced that much yet. It’s the first time in my life that I’m able to do what I want to do. Experiencing new things. I loved working for WWE. It was an incredible experience, but I’m trying other stuff. Perfume. My new perfume line just came out (available here) online. You can find it online if you just look up Maria Kanellis Signature Perfume. I’m doing short films for friends. I’m doing a feature this summer. It’s not a huge feature. I’m writing two films. It’s crazy, so busy.
Sounds like an exciting time. Like you said, trying to figure out what you want to do?
Who knows? I might end up doing some more wrestling. I don’t know if I will or not. I miss it. I miss the crowds. I miss the people. I miss going out there and having that instant gratification. If you do an incredible move or something amazing happens in the ring, I miss that.
When you came up through the Diva Search, did you expect to be wrestling?
No. I loved Jonathan Coachman. I loved what he and The Rock were doing. When they asked me in the Diva Search what I wanted to do, I told Coach, ‘I want to do what you do. I want to call you a popcorn fart just like The Rock did.’ They sent me to the next round. That’s what I thought I was going to do. Then, once you get in it, I want to do the physicality. I want to do all of that stuff. I just did.
Was that surprising to you? When did you realize, OK, I’m a wrestler now and I’m wrestling matches?
I never was. I never considered myself a full-time wrestler because I wasn’t always doing matches. A lot of times, I would do one little thing here or there to make the heel be a heel. It wasn’t like I was a full-time wrestler. A lot of times, I was the girlfriend, which is fine with me. I loved all aspects of it.
Sabu Interview HIghlights
ECW Original Sabu spoke with The Poughkeepsie Journal this weekend. Here are some highlights:
How much are you still wrestling nowadays and what have you been up to?
I still wrestle a couple of times a week. I go to Japan tomorrow actually. England in about a month. I was in Mexico a couple of months ago. I’ve got a lot going on.
You still enjoy it? You still love getting in there?
Not as much as I used to. A couple of weeks ago, I wrestled in Indiana in front of about seven people. I swear to God. And there was no heat. I swear to God, it sucked.
What promotion are you wrestling for in Japan?
It’s called Smash. The boss there and the top guy is Tajiri.
You had a WWE run that ended in May of 07 that might have surprised some people.
I don’t think it surprised people. I think they were surprised it lasted that long.
What were your thoughts on that run and getting to run with a lot of the ECW guys and get back in the national spotlight?
It started out OK and then it turned sour. I don’t know what to say without hurting somebody’s feelings. They didn’t want me to be me. They wanted me to be somebody else. I was already somebody for 20 years. The main thing for me, and the bait for me to stay as long as I did was they were supposed to put my uncle (The Sheik) in the Hall of Fame, which they did, and I wanted to do at least one WrestleMania, which I did.
How much are you still wrestling nowadays and what have you been up to?
I still wrestle a couple of times a week. I go to Japan tomorrow actually. England in about a month. I was in Mexico a couple of months ago. I’ve got a lot going on.
You still enjoy it? You still love getting in there?
Not as much as I used to. A couple of weeks ago, I wrestled in Indiana in front of about seven people. I swear to God. And there was no heat. I swear to God, it sucked.
What promotion are you wrestling for in Japan?
It’s called Smash. The boss there and the top guy is Tajiri.
You had a WWE run that ended in May of 07 that might have surprised some people.
I don’t think it surprised people. I think they were surprised it lasted that long.
What were your thoughts on that run and getting to run with a lot of the ECW guys and get back in the national spotlight?
It started out OK and then it turned sour. I don’t know what to say without hurting somebody’s feelings. They didn’t want me to be me. They wanted me to be somebody else. I was already somebody for 20 years. The main thing for me, and the bait for me to stay as long as I did was they were supposed to put my uncle (The Sheik) in the Hall of Fame, which they did, and I wanted to do at least one WrestleMania, which I did.
Monday, 28 March 2011
New Jim Ross BBQ Blog
Jim Ross is back with another blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some of the highlights from this entry:
- Wrestlemania is a complex time for many talents. Some fret about either not being on the card or being thrown a bone to simply make an appearance ala a battle royal, etc. That's never been my personal philosophy. Being booked on Wrestlemania is an earned honor, a privilege, and not a performer's right.
Then there are those who are booked and who are not in what one would perceive as 'high profile bouts.' My suggest is to go out, maximize ones minutes, and do everything possible to turn heads and steal a small aspect of the show.
- So Trish Stratus endorsed Chyna for the WWE HOF. That's Trish's opinion. I'm sure Chyna's name might come up some day. My thoughts on that matter is and will always remain that I felt it was wrong for Chyna to wrestle men on a regular basis and that her being the Intercontinental Champion was bad positioning. Does that mean that Chyna isn't WWE HOF worthy? That's not for me to speculate on as I am not in the decision making process of the WWE HOF.
- Fans that have extra Wrestlemania tickets won't have any trouble selling them in Atlanta. This is the toughest ticket internally to get of any Wrestlemania that I can recall.
- Wrestlemania is a complex time for many talents. Some fret about either not being on the card or being thrown a bone to simply make an appearance ala a battle royal, etc. That's never been my personal philosophy. Being booked on Wrestlemania is an earned honor, a privilege, and not a performer's right.
Then there are those who are booked and who are not in what one would perceive as 'high profile bouts.' My suggest is to go out, maximize ones minutes, and do everything possible to turn heads and steal a small aspect of the show.
- So Trish Stratus endorsed Chyna for the WWE HOF. That's Trish's opinion. I'm sure Chyna's name might come up some day. My thoughts on that matter is and will always remain that I felt it was wrong for Chyna to wrestle men on a regular basis and that her being the Intercontinental Champion was bad positioning. Does that mean that Chyna isn't WWE HOF worthy? That's not for me to speculate on as I am not in the decision making process of the WWE HOF.
- Fans that have extra Wrestlemania tickets won't have any trouble selling them in Atlanta. This is the toughest ticket internally to get of any Wrestlemania that I can recall.
Shawn Michaels Interview Highlights and Links
The Score Television Network's Arda Ocal & Renee Paquette interviewed future WWE Hall of Famer, Shawn Michaels. Highlights:
Was WrestleMania 14 being the "toughest day at the office" in his career? (2:00)
"Yeah. Yeah it was. I wasn't in a good place physically, obviously. But also mentally. It was just bad, all around. It was the culmination of a lot of things - a lot of bad things. And I would love to tell everybody that I was faking - and fooling - everybody, but it was a pretty rough day at the office, to say the least. And I guess, because I was in such a horrible place at that time, I never really envisioned people really grasping the fact that - 'holy cow man, I don't care if I don't like him, that dude is beating the heck out of himself and he's not in any shape to be doing it'. Over time, people now get it. But when you're doing it, you don't realize that people are sort of uncomfortable watching you while you're doing it."
How he felt emotionally & physically after WrestleMania 14 (3:45)
His thoughts on Triple H vs. The Undertaker at WrestleMania 27 (5:45)
How he would feel if Triple H is the one to break the streak (7:40)
What he felt when wrestling Vince McMahon at WrestleMania 22 (9:10)
"What I really enjoyed about that WrestleMania is that I didn't feel the pressure as I did in every other one. Because that one wasn't so much - 'hey, Shawn Michaels has got to be Mr. WrestleMania and steal the show' - because I was in there with Vince McMahon, I don't think people expect a phenomenal wrestling match. Just from a pressure standpoint, that being off my shoulders allowed me the fact the enjoy that I was out there with my boss and I get to beat the heck out of him."
What he thinks of Vince McMahon, as a performer (10:00)
What was bigger for his career: the infamous barbershop incident or the creation of DX? (11:40)
Why a charity raffle draw to be HBK's guest at WrestleMania 27 (enter here: http://www.celebritiesforcharity.org/raffle/shawn-michaels-wrestlemania-raffle/)?
And lots more.
The full interview is here: http://radio.thescore.com/episodes/hbk-interview-mar-23-2011
Was WrestleMania 14 being the "toughest day at the office" in his career? (2:00)
"Yeah. Yeah it was. I wasn't in a good place physically, obviously. But also mentally. It was just bad, all around. It was the culmination of a lot of things - a lot of bad things. And I would love to tell everybody that I was faking - and fooling - everybody, but it was a pretty rough day at the office, to say the least. And I guess, because I was in such a horrible place at that time, I never really envisioned people really grasping the fact that - 'holy cow man, I don't care if I don't like him, that dude is beating the heck out of himself and he's not in any shape to be doing it'. Over time, people now get it. But when you're doing it, you don't realize that people are sort of uncomfortable watching you while you're doing it."
How he felt emotionally & physically after WrestleMania 14 (3:45)
His thoughts on Triple H vs. The Undertaker at WrestleMania 27 (5:45)
How he would feel if Triple H is the one to break the streak (7:40)
What he felt when wrestling Vince McMahon at WrestleMania 22 (9:10)
"What I really enjoyed about that WrestleMania is that I didn't feel the pressure as I did in every other one. Because that one wasn't so much - 'hey, Shawn Michaels has got to be Mr. WrestleMania and steal the show' - because I was in there with Vince McMahon, I don't think people expect a phenomenal wrestling match. Just from a pressure standpoint, that being off my shoulders allowed me the fact the enjoy that I was out there with my boss and I get to beat the heck out of him."
What he thinks of Vince McMahon, as a performer (10:00)
What was bigger for his career: the infamous barbershop incident or the creation of DX? (11:40)
Why a charity raffle draw to be HBK's guest at WrestleMania 27 (enter here: http://www.celebritiesforcharity.org/raffle/shawn-michaels-wrestlemania-raffle/)?
And lots more.
The full interview is here: http://radio.thescore.com/episodes/hbk-interview-mar-23-2011
Bret hart Cartoon auction in aid of Japan
http://shop.ebay.com/hitmanproductionsinc/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=
some cartoons by Bret Hart of Ric Flair and Hulk Hogan, both for sale on ebay, all proceeds go to charity in aid of Japan.
some cartoons by Bret Hart of Ric Flair and Hulk Hogan, both for sale on ebay, all proceeds go to charity in aid of Japan.
New Last call With Scott Hall Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=6HxRq0PcqXM
here is the latest Last call with Scott Hall video, asome strong language and a few digs at Chris Jericho are featured.
here is the latest Last call with Scott Hall video, asome strong language and a few digs at Chris Jericho are featured.
Abdullah The Butcher Interview Highlights
Soon-to-be WWE Hall of Famer Abdullah the Butcher will be appearing on Main Event Radio today. Here are some highlights of the pre-taped interview:
Getting the call from WWE:
"They called me about a month ago. When they called me I was sleeping and they told me they want to put me in the Hall of Fame; I jumped up and said just a minute. I ran to the bathroom really fast, started putting water on my face, started smacking my face. I ran back and he says 'This is Johnny Ace, we want to put you in the Hall of Fame.' I thought I was dreaming. I'm the one who started hardcore. I started hardcore on Johnny Rougeau, the Rougeau brothers, Maurice [Mad Dog] Vachon, and my manager Eddie "The Brain Creatchman.
I was in the business for many years. I scared a lot of people but they all liked me. I was not expecting it when they told me they were going to induct me into the Hall of Fame. They left me for last because I am #1. They left me for the last because I was the only one left."
Why he never wrestled for WWE:
"The guys in the wrestling business, when you're a top man and you're drawing a lot of money, they don't want the promoter to bring you in so they started to make up a lot of stories about Abdullah the Butcher. They told Vince don't bring him in because he's going to stab people with a fork, he's going to do this, he's going to do that."
Wrestlers using his hardcore style over the years:
"It's not the point that somebody tries to take your style. If you look a at Mercedes Benz style, now you've got other cars who started looking the same way. They're trying to sell cars. The guys who are trying to do what I used to do, they're trying to draw people. It's the same reason I did it. I'll never retire though...I'll keep going. I started in 1961, 50 years. I loved working with all my opponents, it was always a pleasure to wrestle. I would also like to thank the fans, a lot of people helped me get into the Hall of Fame, they wrote into WWE asking for me. Thank you very much and may God bless you all."
Getting the call from WWE:
"They called me about a month ago. When they called me I was sleeping and they told me they want to put me in the Hall of Fame; I jumped up and said just a minute. I ran to the bathroom really fast, started putting water on my face, started smacking my face. I ran back and he says 'This is Johnny Ace, we want to put you in the Hall of Fame.' I thought I was dreaming. I'm the one who started hardcore. I started hardcore on Johnny Rougeau, the Rougeau brothers, Maurice [Mad Dog] Vachon, and my manager Eddie "The Brain Creatchman.
I was in the business for many years. I scared a lot of people but they all liked me. I was not expecting it when they told me they were going to induct me into the Hall of Fame. They left me for last because I am #1. They left me for the last because I was the only one left."
Why he never wrestled for WWE:
"The guys in the wrestling business, when you're a top man and you're drawing a lot of money, they don't want the promoter to bring you in so they started to make up a lot of stories about Abdullah the Butcher. They told Vince don't bring him in because he's going to stab people with a fork, he's going to do this, he's going to do that."
Wrestlers using his hardcore style over the years:
"It's not the point that somebody tries to take your style. If you look a at Mercedes Benz style, now you've got other cars who started looking the same way. They're trying to sell cars. The guys who are trying to do what I used to do, they're trying to draw people. It's the same reason I did it. I'll never retire though...I'll keep going. I started in 1961, 50 years. I loved working with all my opponents, it was always a pleasure to wrestle. I would also like to thank the fans, a lot of people helped me get into the Hall of Fame, they wrote into WWE asking for me. Thank you very much and may God bless you all."
Saturday, 26 March 2011
Larry Zybszko calls out Chris Jericho!
Former wrestler Larry Zybszko has made it known on video how he feels about Chris Jericho, here it is, the two have had some ill feeling for many years now.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NteM-jG6550&feature=player_embedded
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NteM-jG6550&feature=player_embedded
Steve Austin Plugging Wrestlemania and Tough Enough Interview Highlights
Steve Austin is promoting WrestleMania 27 and Tough Enough in a new interview with IGN. In the interview, Austin revealed that each week on Tough Enough, he will select the "Bottom 3." These will be the lowest level performers on the show. Austin will give them a chance to convince him to let them stay before eliminating one and allowing the other two to stay.
Here are some highlights from the interview:
His approach to eliminating contestants:
"When it's time for me to be Stone Cold, when we go into elimination and it's time to ask the nitty gritty questions, and they've got a chance to either stay or go, you know, I get on them pretty good, and I'm looking to see who I can rattle, or undo, and you know, we've weeded out some of the ones who really needed to go first."
Using other wrestlers as examples to the Tough Enough contestants:
"There are many guys who I'll bring up in the course of a week. We'll have a different superstar come by each week and talk to the kids. I'll use myself as an example some of the time, but not all the time because you know, one of the things I'll tell them about me is, I was never the best wrestler in the world. I was never the best looking wrestler in the world. I was never the best built guy in the dressing room. I was never the best at anything. But I had enough things and I wanted it bad enough that I made it to the top and I did what I did. But not everybody's going to have my style. Not everybody comes from the background I come from. I use Shawn Michaels, I use The Undertaker, I use The Rock a lot, Ric Flair, my favorite pro wrestler. And Rey Mysterio came by. Some of these guys might be more in a Rey kind of mode. But I'll use as many examples as I can, and I've got a bunch of them because I grew up watching this business since I was seven or eight years old."
Being a heel vs. face:
"Shoot, man, I loved being a damn heel. Something about that, just going out there and being the most despicable person you could ever be, was a real turn on for me. And I grew up a real shy kid in south Texas, and it was something for me to lean on and have fun with. But when I came up with the Stone Cold thing, I really kind of brought a gray area in to a black and white world."
What?
"I tell you what, I would have never in a million years went up to Vince and said, 'Hey, I've got this thing that I'm going to do and it's going to make people say 'What?' after every pause or break in someone's promo for the next ten years. I had no idea that even these days, when Michael Cole's in the ring cutting a promo, if he puts that pause in there, they'll come with a 'What?!' - but it's been interesting!"
Here are some highlights from the interview:
His approach to eliminating contestants:
"When it's time for me to be Stone Cold, when we go into elimination and it's time to ask the nitty gritty questions, and they've got a chance to either stay or go, you know, I get on them pretty good, and I'm looking to see who I can rattle, or undo, and you know, we've weeded out some of the ones who really needed to go first."
Using other wrestlers as examples to the Tough Enough contestants:
"There are many guys who I'll bring up in the course of a week. We'll have a different superstar come by each week and talk to the kids. I'll use myself as an example some of the time, but not all the time because you know, one of the things I'll tell them about me is, I was never the best wrestler in the world. I was never the best looking wrestler in the world. I was never the best built guy in the dressing room. I was never the best at anything. But I had enough things and I wanted it bad enough that I made it to the top and I did what I did. But not everybody's going to have my style. Not everybody comes from the background I come from. I use Shawn Michaels, I use The Undertaker, I use The Rock a lot, Ric Flair, my favorite pro wrestler. And Rey Mysterio came by. Some of these guys might be more in a Rey kind of mode. But I'll use as many examples as I can, and I've got a bunch of them because I grew up watching this business since I was seven or eight years old."
Being a heel vs. face:
"Shoot, man, I loved being a damn heel. Something about that, just going out there and being the most despicable person you could ever be, was a real turn on for me. And I grew up a real shy kid in south Texas, and it was something for me to lean on and have fun with. But when I came up with the Stone Cold thing, I really kind of brought a gray area in to a black and white world."
What?
"I tell you what, I would have never in a million years went up to Vince and said, 'Hey, I've got this thing that I'm going to do and it's going to make people say 'What?' after every pause or break in someone's promo for the next ten years. I had no idea that even these days, when Michael Cole's in the ring cutting a promo, if he puts that pause in there, they'll come with a 'What?!' - but it's been interesting!"
Latest news on Kurt Angle's arrest...
Despite being arrested Friday morning, Kurt Angle wrestled Jeff Jarrett at last night's TNA event in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Regarding the incident that was reported by TMZ, Angle wrote the following on Twitter:
"Thank U to my supporters. I was not drunk. I was in ice storm and my car slid into 3 ft of snow median. I called police 4 help. They had other plans. I was stuck and wanted to go to my hotel. I was not passed out Drunk. I was co-herent. I'm sorry if I let you down. Don't believe everything You read. My life is good and this is a speed bump in the road. The truth will come out. GOD Bless. I take responsibility."
Angle also wrote that his job is to stay clean and never put himself in jeopardy, noting that TMZ blew the story out of proportion that and that he would give the real story once his hearings were over. He since deleted that message.
"Thank U to my supporters. I was not drunk. I was in ice storm and my car slid into 3 ft of snow median. I called police 4 help. They had other plans. I was stuck and wanted to go to my hotel. I was not passed out Drunk. I was co-herent. I'm sorry if I let you down. Don't believe everything You read. My life is good and this is a speed bump in the road. The truth will come out. GOD Bless. I take responsibility."
Angle also wrote that his job is to stay clean and never put himself in jeopardy, noting that TMZ blew the story out of proportion that and that he would give the real story once his hearings were over. He since deleted that message.
Friday, 25 March 2011
DieHard Wrestling Interviews WWE Diva Trish Stratus
DieHard Wrestling Interviews WWE Diva Trish Stratus
Trish Stratus is perhaps one of the most recognizable female athletes in all of sports entertainment. The fitness model turned pro wrestler has held the World Wrestling Entertainment Women's championship on seven occasions and her name is constantly up for consideration for induction into the illustrious WWE Hall of Fame.
Prior to her return to the WWE, where she will partake as a trainer for the revamped Tough Enough series on MTV, DieHard Derek had the chance to briefly sit down and chat with the diva about her thoughts on the retirement of the original WWE Women's title, comparisons between WWE Divas and TNA Knockouts, and the prospect of her posing for Playboy Magazine.
http://player.vimeo.com/video/16730613?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0&color=ff9933";
http://www.diehardprowrestling.com">DieHard Pro Wrestling
This video is provided by DieHard Pro Wrestling
Trish Stratus is perhaps one of the most recognizable female athletes in all of sports entertainment. The fitness model turned pro wrestler has held the World Wrestling Entertainment Women's championship on seven occasions and her name is constantly up for consideration for induction into the illustrious WWE Hall of Fame.
Prior to her return to the WWE, where she will partake as a trainer for the revamped Tough Enough series on MTV, DieHard Derek had the chance to briefly sit down and chat with the diva about her thoughts on the retirement of the original WWE Women's title, comparisons between WWE Divas and TNA Knockouts, and the prospect of her posing for Playboy Magazine.
http://player.vimeo.com/video/16730613?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0&color=ff9933";
http://www.diehardprowrestling.com">DieHard Pro Wrestling
This video is provided by DieHard Pro Wrestling
JR's New Blog Highlights
Several fans sent me a Tweet @JRsBBQ of the first match that Jerry Lawler and I ever announced together which was in 1983. Jerry was with his business partner at the time Jerry Jarrett and they were visiting Bill Watts on a TV night for Mid South Wrestling. Soon after this meeting, Watts and the two Jerry's made a talent trade that brought the Rock 'n Roll Express and Midnight Express (Condrey, Eaton, & Cornette) to Mid South. Both territories were able to freshen up their talent rosters via this timely trade.
The King sat in with me only on one match, as I recall, a tag match pitting Butch Reed & Jim Neidhart vs. Lanny Poffo and Iceman king Parsons. Who knew that a decade later that the two of us would form one of the longer lasting broadcast partnerships in TV wrestling history? To see it on You Tube try http://deck.ly/~xOLxT.
I missed out on the OU Football play by play position but the University made an excellent hire with 37 year old Toby Rowland. I'm disappointed that I didn't get a shot at my childhood 'dream job' but I'm happy for Toby and know that he will do a great job of underscoring the 'theater of the mind,' better known as radio, to the Sooner faithful.
Some of my friends feel that my long time association and name identity within pro wrestling over the years did not work in my favor. I'm not sure that I agree with that analogy but the bottom line is that it wasn't meant to be and as I said all along I felt that I was a long shot at best.
Look for Brock Lesnar to pop up on ESPN over the next few days, perhaps with Jonathan Coachman, for a 'unique' feature on the former WWE, UFC and NCAA Champion. Brock next fights June 11, at this time in Vancouver, against Junior Dos Santos. Of course Lesnar is one of the coaches for The Ultimate Fighter which debuts soon not to mention that Brock's book, co-written with Paul Heyman, will be in stores in a few weeks. I'm anxious to read Brock's book and hope that you check it out as well.
Speaking of UFC, they have a youthful fighter in Jon Jones who can perhaps headline three PPV's over a 12 month period if Bones can avoid injuries. The athletically gifted Jones, the youngest UFC Champion ever, is an extraordinarily unique fighter and, at 23 years of age, will recover from fights quicker than older competitors. The licensing and marketing potential for 'Bones' Jones is unlimited. To potentially be able to get 3 main events on PPV from Bones over a 12-14 month period of time is like printing money.
The Jones-Rashard Evans story over the UFC light Heavyweight Title is such a simple story to tell and to sell. Teacher vs. Pupil. Training camp partners. Jones wins 'Evans fight' vs Rua for the title, etc. I don't expect to hear amped up trash talking between the two men but I do expect that their naturally, competitive nature will be exploited as it should.
I got invited by the Celtics to attend their game in Atlanta on Friday night of WM27 week but the game conflicts with an appearance I will be on at the THQ location at WM Axxess. I'm actually going to play against The King in the new, WWE All Stars video game. I predict that Jerry will defeat me just as he will Cole in the Georgia Dome.
I might have actually been able to do some play by play while in Atlanta on Celtics radio with my pal and Celts voice Sean Grande.
For those attending Axxess, Lawler and I will also be at the WWE HOF booth signing autographs on Saturday morning from 10 am- noon. Plus, our JR's products will be on sale at the WWE merchandise stand throughout Axxess as well. Remember, no shipping charges at Axxess.
@joeystyles is lighting it up on Twitter. The artist also known as 'Stocky Balboa' is one of the more outspoken individuals in WWE and expresses himself freely on Twitter. Some day Joey and I may get to broadcast some lost classics for WWEClassics.com or WWE On Demand. Time will tell.
Have any of you checked out the Cauliflower Alley Club website at http://www.caulifloweralleyclub.org? I'm looking forward to attending their April banquet in Las Vegas along with several other WWE HOF'ers. Hope to see many old friends and fans there.
We'll all miss Sir Oliver Humperdink at CAC this year as 'Hump' passed away a few days ago at the age of 62 after suffering from bladder cancer. Humpy had those bulging eyes and when he, shall we say, partook of smokable herb, those saucer sized eyes became very, very red.
Or so I heard.
The man born as John Sutton will be missed by us all and will always be one of the all time great managers in the business but likely will also always be underrated just as will his amazing team of the Hollywood Blonds, Jerry Brown and Buddy Roberts.
Great managers knew exactly when to be seen and when to interject themselves and, above all else, knew how to enhance their talent's skills. Hump 'got it' and his Hollywood Blond duo had tag team skills that would easily work well today if tag team wrestling was being featured at all on a national level. The 'Blonds' utilized classic, timeless tag team strategy that I can still vividly recall from matches that they had in the 70's.
BTW and before I forget...if you want an autograph on this site, I do not sell them. I will sign for free but you have to include what you want signed and a self addressed stamped envelope or it won't get done. Send requests to: JR's BBQ, PO Box 721294, Norman, Oklahoma 73070.
In my four plus decades in the wrestling biz, I can't name anyone who stood their ground against a variety of power brokers and stayed loyal to their in ring persona more than new WWE Hall of Fame Inductee Abdullah the Butcher. Abby perfected his game plan decades ago and never deviated from it to any significant degree. He stayed independent in his thinking and managed his own career while becoming a financially secure, Global, main event performer. 'Butch' as the late, great Gary Hart used to call him, is also very astute. If someone pulled the wool over Abdullah's eyes, they only did it once. He gave me some great advice as a young man who was just getting into corporate management within this wacky business.
Abdullah the Butcher is a superb selection for the WWE Hall of Fame as he has stood the test of time and made the term 'Hardcore' fashionable. Who was more 'Hardcore' for more years than Abby? Seems to me that the Butcher was the true innovator of the hardcore style of wrestling featuring blood and weapons.
Remember, we do not ship outside the USA but http://www.wweshop.com does and they do a really good job. If you check out their site, you can find some outstanding deals on products and on shipping especially to the UK, Canada, and Germany.
@JRsBBQ on Twitter has over 114,000 followers and grows daily. Thanks.
We're getting very excited about WM27 in my old stomping grounds of Atlanta. The Mrs. and I enjoyed living in Atlanta so much back in the day. We were homeowners there and still have many, many friends who reside in the Peach State. Being able to announce wrestling from the old TBS studios on Techwood Drive ala Gordon Solie in his heyday was a thrill for me and was a 'boyhood dream' that I was able to experience.
Ah, the 'good old days' when broadcasters actually did play by play during pro wrestling matches....and when a tank of gasoline and a sack of groceries didn't bruise the bank account.
Thanks for stocking up with JR's products from our on line store as it seems as if many of you are planning on WM27 parties and tailgates. We appreciate the biz and you've still got time to get your orders delivered before the event if you hustle.
Boomer Sooner!
JR
The King sat in with me only on one match, as I recall, a tag match pitting Butch Reed & Jim Neidhart vs. Lanny Poffo and Iceman king Parsons. Who knew that a decade later that the two of us would form one of the longer lasting broadcast partnerships in TV wrestling history? To see it on You Tube try http://deck.ly/~xOLxT.
I missed out on the OU Football play by play position but the University made an excellent hire with 37 year old Toby Rowland. I'm disappointed that I didn't get a shot at my childhood 'dream job' but I'm happy for Toby and know that he will do a great job of underscoring the 'theater of the mind,' better known as radio, to the Sooner faithful.
Some of my friends feel that my long time association and name identity within pro wrestling over the years did not work in my favor. I'm not sure that I agree with that analogy but the bottom line is that it wasn't meant to be and as I said all along I felt that I was a long shot at best.
Look for Brock Lesnar to pop up on ESPN over the next few days, perhaps with Jonathan Coachman, for a 'unique' feature on the former WWE, UFC and NCAA Champion. Brock next fights June 11, at this time in Vancouver, against Junior Dos Santos. Of course Lesnar is one of the coaches for The Ultimate Fighter which debuts soon not to mention that Brock's book, co-written with Paul Heyman, will be in stores in a few weeks. I'm anxious to read Brock's book and hope that you check it out as well.
Speaking of UFC, they have a youthful fighter in Jon Jones who can perhaps headline three PPV's over a 12 month period if Bones can avoid injuries. The athletically gifted Jones, the youngest UFC Champion ever, is an extraordinarily unique fighter and, at 23 years of age, will recover from fights quicker than older competitors. The licensing and marketing potential for 'Bones' Jones is unlimited. To potentially be able to get 3 main events on PPV from Bones over a 12-14 month period of time is like printing money.
The Jones-Rashard Evans story over the UFC light Heavyweight Title is such a simple story to tell and to sell. Teacher vs. Pupil. Training camp partners. Jones wins 'Evans fight' vs Rua for the title, etc. I don't expect to hear amped up trash talking between the two men but I do expect that their naturally, competitive nature will be exploited as it should.
I got invited by the Celtics to attend their game in Atlanta on Friday night of WM27 week but the game conflicts with an appearance I will be on at the THQ location at WM Axxess. I'm actually going to play against The King in the new, WWE All Stars video game. I predict that Jerry will defeat me just as he will Cole in the Georgia Dome.
I might have actually been able to do some play by play while in Atlanta on Celtics radio with my pal and Celts voice Sean Grande.
For those attending Axxess, Lawler and I will also be at the WWE HOF booth signing autographs on Saturday morning from 10 am- noon. Plus, our JR's products will be on sale at the WWE merchandise stand throughout Axxess as well. Remember, no shipping charges at Axxess.
@joeystyles is lighting it up on Twitter. The artist also known as 'Stocky Balboa' is one of the more outspoken individuals in WWE and expresses himself freely on Twitter. Some day Joey and I may get to broadcast some lost classics for WWEClassics.com or WWE On Demand. Time will tell.
Have any of you checked out the Cauliflower Alley Club website at http://www.caulifloweralleyclub.org? I'm looking forward to attending their April banquet in Las Vegas along with several other WWE HOF'ers. Hope to see many old friends and fans there.
We'll all miss Sir Oliver Humperdink at CAC this year as 'Hump' passed away a few days ago at the age of 62 after suffering from bladder cancer. Humpy had those bulging eyes and when he, shall we say, partook of smokable herb, those saucer sized eyes became very, very red.
Or so I heard.
The man born as John Sutton will be missed by us all and will always be one of the all time great managers in the business but likely will also always be underrated just as will his amazing team of the Hollywood Blonds, Jerry Brown and Buddy Roberts.
Great managers knew exactly when to be seen and when to interject themselves and, above all else, knew how to enhance their talent's skills. Hump 'got it' and his Hollywood Blond duo had tag team skills that would easily work well today if tag team wrestling was being featured at all on a national level. The 'Blonds' utilized classic, timeless tag team strategy that I can still vividly recall from matches that they had in the 70's.
BTW and before I forget...if you want an autograph on this site, I do not sell them. I will sign for free but you have to include what you want signed and a self addressed stamped envelope or it won't get done. Send requests to: JR's BBQ, PO Box 721294, Norman, Oklahoma 73070.
In my four plus decades in the wrestling biz, I can't name anyone who stood their ground against a variety of power brokers and stayed loyal to their in ring persona more than new WWE Hall of Fame Inductee Abdullah the Butcher. Abby perfected his game plan decades ago and never deviated from it to any significant degree. He stayed independent in his thinking and managed his own career while becoming a financially secure, Global, main event performer. 'Butch' as the late, great Gary Hart used to call him, is also very astute. If someone pulled the wool over Abdullah's eyes, they only did it once. He gave me some great advice as a young man who was just getting into corporate management within this wacky business.
Abdullah the Butcher is a superb selection for the WWE Hall of Fame as he has stood the test of time and made the term 'Hardcore' fashionable. Who was more 'Hardcore' for more years than Abby? Seems to me that the Butcher was the true innovator of the hardcore style of wrestling featuring blood and weapons.
Remember, we do not ship outside the USA but http://www.wweshop.com does and they do a really good job. If you check out their site, you can find some outstanding deals on products and on shipping especially to the UK, Canada, and Germany.
@JRsBBQ on Twitter has over 114,000 followers and grows daily. Thanks.
We're getting very excited about WM27 in my old stomping grounds of Atlanta. The Mrs. and I enjoyed living in Atlanta so much back in the day. We were homeowners there and still have many, many friends who reside in the Peach State. Being able to announce wrestling from the old TBS studios on Techwood Drive ala Gordon Solie in his heyday was a thrill for me and was a 'boyhood dream' that I was able to experience.
Ah, the 'good old days' when broadcasters actually did play by play during pro wrestling matches....and when a tank of gasoline and a sack of groceries didn't bruise the bank account.
Thanks for stocking up with JR's products from our on line store as it seems as if many of you are planning on WM27 parties and tailgates. We appreciate the biz and you've still got time to get your orders delivered before the event if you hustle.
Boomer Sooner!
JR
Thursday, 24 March 2011
Wednesday, 23 March 2011
DieHard Wrestling Interviews WWE Superstar Booker T
DieHard Wrestling Interviews WWE Superstar Booker T
Right before Booker T decided to return to the WWE, DieHard Derek had the chance to sit down and talk with one of the most decorated wrestlers in history. In this 20 minute interview, Booker T discusses some of the things that interested him and inspired him to get involved in the wrestling business. He recalls his first match in the WWE with former WCW alumni Buff Bagwell and the botchfest that ensued during his debut. Booker shares some thoughts on the ill-fated WCW invasion angle and how he worked harder to make sure that his career didn’t carry the stench. What you’ll enjoy the most is Booker’s side of the story as he discusses the backstage altercation between himself and Batista during a SummerSlam promo shoot, as well as the night that he accidentally called Hulk Hogan the “N” word on a live telecast.
After watching this video, you grow to appreciate how decent and humble of a human being Booker really is and how he exudes nothing but positive energy to the people he works with and the fans that he works for. It will be interesting to see how Booker T adapts to his new roles in the WWE as a trainer on Tough Enough and as an eventual color commentator. Don’t be too fast to shake your head at the thought of Booker behind the mic. Aside from him having a great mind for the business of pro wrestling – think back at how many other former pro wrestlers and managers became legends behind the mic such as Gorilla Monsoon, Bobby Heenan and Jesse Ventura. As long as Booker is able to stray from keeping his dialect vanilla – and what I mean by that is, refraining from giving an insightful opinion and having no quarrels about being opinionated in an effort to verbally push the talent, the product and the company. Then again, in this day and age where Vince McMahon is having a conniption if someone refers to his business as wrestling rather than sports entertainment, Booker may just be better off going with whatever “the man” tells him to say. I’m just glad that Booker T wasn’t associated or affiliated to any organization at the time of this interview, that way he didn’t have to hold anything back in fear of any repercussions. Enjoy the video!
http://player.vimeo.com/video/16324639?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0&color=ff9933
http://www.diehardprowrestling.com
Right before Booker T decided to return to the WWE, DieHard Derek had the chance to sit down and talk with one of the most decorated wrestlers in history. In this 20 minute interview, Booker T discusses some of the things that interested him and inspired him to get involved in the wrestling business. He recalls his first match in the WWE with former WCW alumni Buff Bagwell and the botchfest that ensued during his debut. Booker shares some thoughts on the ill-fated WCW invasion angle and how he worked harder to make sure that his career didn’t carry the stench. What you’ll enjoy the most is Booker’s side of the story as he discusses the backstage altercation between himself and Batista during a SummerSlam promo shoot, as well as the night that he accidentally called Hulk Hogan the “N” word on a live telecast.
After watching this video, you grow to appreciate how decent and humble of a human being Booker really is and how he exudes nothing but positive energy to the people he works with and the fans that he works for. It will be interesting to see how Booker T adapts to his new roles in the WWE as a trainer on Tough Enough and as an eventual color commentator. Don’t be too fast to shake your head at the thought of Booker behind the mic. Aside from him having a great mind for the business of pro wrestling – think back at how many other former pro wrestlers and managers became legends behind the mic such as Gorilla Monsoon, Bobby Heenan and Jesse Ventura. As long as Booker is able to stray from keeping his dialect vanilla – and what I mean by that is, refraining from giving an insightful opinion and having no quarrels about being opinionated in an effort to verbally push the talent, the product and the company. Then again, in this day and age where Vince McMahon is having a conniption if someone refers to his business as wrestling rather than sports entertainment, Booker may just be better off going with whatever “the man” tells him to say. I’m just glad that Booker T wasn’t associated or affiliated to any organization at the time of this interview, that way he didn’t have to hold anything back in fear of any repercussions. Enjoy the video!
http://player.vimeo.com/video/16324639?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0&color=ff9933
http://www.diehardprowrestling.com
Abdullah The Butcher Interview Highlights
Abdullah the Butcher recently spoke with Slam Wrestling about the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame. Here are some highlights:
Getting the call from WWE:
"When they phoned and said, 'We want to put you in the Hall of Fame,' I started smacking myself to make sure I was hearing them right. It took them a while to get me in to their Hall of Fame, but I'm very happy. Even though I don't live far away, they're going to pick me up in a limousine. I love it!"
His drawing power today:
"If you were to put me with The Undertaker today, we could sell out any place. I need a new hip, but I still look 100 per cent good. Hulk Hogan and I wrestled in Japan for two weeks back in the '80s, selling out and having great matches, and we could do it again today. I think we could still give the people action."
Never working for WWE:
"I've never met Vince McMahon Jr. The WWE were scared of me because I was an outlaw, and I did not kiss anybody's butt. The boys, back in the day there, would say, 'Don't bring Abdullah in -- he'll be trouble.'"
Getting the call from WWE:
"When they phoned and said, 'We want to put you in the Hall of Fame,' I started smacking myself to make sure I was hearing them right. It took them a while to get me in to their Hall of Fame, but I'm very happy. Even though I don't live far away, they're going to pick me up in a limousine. I love it!"
His drawing power today:
"If you were to put me with The Undertaker today, we could sell out any place. I need a new hip, but I still look 100 per cent good. Hulk Hogan and I wrestled in Japan for two weeks back in the '80s, selling out and having great matches, and we could do it again today. I think we could still give the people action."
Never working for WWE:
"I've never met Vince McMahon Jr. The WWE were scared of me because I was an outlaw, and I did not kiss anybody's butt. The boys, back in the day there, would say, 'Don't bring Abdullah in -- he'll be trouble.'"
WWE DVD Review: Live in the UK November 2010
WWE DVD Review: Live in the UK November 2010
By Phil Allely
On general release from March 28th 2011 this two disc set from Silvervision gives UK fans an insight into the atmosphere and quality of matches the WWE bring to the plate when they record their live shows weekly TV shows here. This is of course the ideal DVD for anyone wishing to relive the event they attended or for those of us who were unfortunate enough to miss out this time around.
Taking place last November in Manchester (at the Evening News Arena) where the venue was packed full of rabid fans, the matches, storylines and level of enthusiasm brought the proceedings that were on offer over the two days were well up to a par with their U.S. counterparts.
First up on disc one is the RAW Live show were hometown boy Nexus’ leader Wade Barrett took centre stage and tried his best to keep things in his factions favour. On offer here are some nice segments with Nexus, John Cena, Randy Orton and a comical set-piece where Vladimir Kozlov and Santino Marella attempt to have a typically English tea party (featuring Sheamus).
Match wise there are some nice bouts including The Hart Dynasty against The Uso’s, Goldust versus Ted Dibiase and a six Diva match where the girls all compete in football strips.
The ten man main event was a belter too, featuring Randy Orton’s (RAW GM selected group) against Barrett’s Nexus.
We then can see the entire episode of NXT as well, which featured Goldust, an arm wrestling challenge, Vickie Guerrero and much more.
On the extras front there is a very enjoyable brawl between an in their prime Undertaker and Kane, this was recorded during the April 1998 UK tour also held in Manchester.
Disc two is chock full of matches and loads more as well. Kicking off with an episode of Superstars featuring three matches that helped build up the crowds anticipation for Smackdown, all of which happened a mere two days after the previous Raw/NXT recording.
Smackdown itself was strong episode, offering up some nice scraps between Alberto Del Rio and Kofi Kingston, Natalya versus Layla, Edge battling Dave Otunga and Dolph Ziggler tackling the underrated MVP. There were like the previous discs Raw show all of the usual links, interviews and backstage segments that make WWE TV so watchable.
The main event saw the big men takeover as Kane took on the mighty Big Show, which sent everyone home happy and ensured the same sell-out crowds will be on hand for this year’s tours too.
This set really is a must have for anyone who has ever wondered what a live WWE event is like and especially how much effort the company put into these things and the respect they have for fans here in the UK.
WWE Live in the UK November 2010 is available from www.silvervision.co.uk and all good retailers.
Fozzy to Perform at Sonisphere
The Chris Jericho fronted US rock band Fozzy are to perform on July 10, 2011 at Knebworth as part of a historic musical lineup including The Big 4, Slipknot, Motorhead, Diamond Head, Sisters of Mercy, Volbeat & many more.
FOZZY will perform alongside metal titans Slipknot and the recently reunited Limp Bizkit on the final day of the Sonisphere Festival, Sunday, July 10, 2011, at Knebworth in the United Kingdom.
After sold-out tours in March and October 2010, FOZZY will return to the UK for the third time in the past year to support Chasing the Grail [Riot Entertainment], their latest release and fourth studio album. In addition to Sonisphere, FOZZY will appear on 4 headlining dates with opening acts, Voodoo Vegas and Memories in Torment.
June
29 – Nuneaton, England – Queens Hall
TICKETS: http://www.seetickets.com/Event/FOZZY/Queens-Hall/545607
30 – Manchester, England – Moho Live
TICKETS: https://moholive-secure.ticketline.co.uk/tickets/13256002/fozzy/manchester-moho-live/2011-06-30
July
1 – Margate, England – West Coast
TICKETS: https://moholive-secure.ticketline.co.uk/tickets/13256002/fozzy/manchester-moho-live/2011-06-30
17 – London, England – Dingwalls
TICKETS: https://fan.musicglue.com/sale/saleproducts.aspx?productid=9707ad4a-9c12-447f-8661-ce4448efe57c
Very special VIP packages for all UK appearances are available at www.fozzyrock.com/vip
Check out a Sonisphere video announcement from Chris Jericho here:
http://www.muzu.tv/sonisphereuk/hello-from-chris-jericho-fozzy-music-video/919947?country=ww&locale=en
Fozzy’s profile is at an all-time high, as the band shares the spotlight with Jericho’s wrestling and acting careers in his new book, “Undisputed: How to Become the World Champion in 1.372 Easy Steps.” Released February 17, 2011, the title debuted at No. 4 on the UK hardcover bestseller list, and picks up where his first autobiography, “A Lion’s Tale: Around the World in Spandex,” left off at his entry into the WWE.
FOZZY Chris Jericho (vocals)
Rich Ward (guitar)
Sean Delson (bass)
Frank Fontsere (drums)
Billy Grey (guitar)
FOZZY ONLINE: www.fozzyrock.com www.facebook.com/fozzyrock
@FozzyRock
@IAmJericho
@TheDukeOfMetal
Sonisphere:
http://uk.sonispherefestivals.com/
FOZZY will perform alongside metal titans Slipknot and the recently reunited Limp Bizkit on the final day of the Sonisphere Festival, Sunday, July 10, 2011, at Knebworth in the United Kingdom.
After sold-out tours in March and October 2010, FOZZY will return to the UK for the third time in the past year to support Chasing the Grail [Riot Entertainment], their latest release and fourth studio album. In addition to Sonisphere, FOZZY will appear on 4 headlining dates with opening acts, Voodoo Vegas and Memories in Torment.
June
29 – Nuneaton, England – Queens Hall
TICKETS: http://www.seetickets.com/Event/FOZZY/Queens-Hall/545607
30 – Manchester, England – Moho Live
TICKETS: https://moholive-secure.ticketline.co.uk/tickets/13256002/fozzy/manchester-moho-live/2011-06-30
July
1 – Margate, England – West Coast
TICKETS: https://moholive-secure.ticketline.co.uk/tickets/13256002/fozzy/manchester-moho-live/2011-06-30
17 – London, England – Dingwalls
TICKETS: https://fan.musicglue.com/sale/saleproducts.aspx?productid=9707ad4a-9c12-447f-8661-ce4448efe57c
Very special VIP packages for all UK appearances are available at www.fozzyrock.com/vip
Check out a Sonisphere video announcement from Chris Jericho here:
http://www.muzu.tv/sonisphereuk/hello-from-chris-jericho-fozzy-music-video/919947?country=ww&locale=en
Fozzy’s profile is at an all-time high, as the band shares the spotlight with Jericho’s wrestling and acting careers in his new book, “Undisputed: How to Become the World Champion in 1.372 Easy Steps.” Released February 17, 2011, the title debuted at No. 4 on the UK hardcover bestseller list, and picks up where his first autobiography, “A Lion’s Tale: Around the World in Spandex,” left off at his entry into the WWE.
FOZZY Chris Jericho (vocals)
Rich Ward (guitar)
Sean Delson (bass)
Frank Fontsere (drums)
Billy Grey (guitar)
FOZZY ONLINE: www.fozzyrock.com www.facebook.com/fozzyrock
@FozzyRock
@IAmJericho
@TheDukeOfMetal
Sonisphere:
Tuesday, 22 March 2011
Abdullah The Butcher For WWE Hall Of Fame
‘Abby Days’ as the Butcher Gets Hall Of Fame Nod
By Phil Allely
Garbage match legend Abdullah The Butcher (Larry Shreve) is the latest wrestler to be added to the WWE’s Hall of Fame this year.
The infamous blood-spiller who is now well into his 70s has been performing in rings large and small across the globe for over 50 years, showing no signs of letting up yet. The wild eyed maniac’s appearance (with deep forehead scars are so prominent he can balance coins in them) and brutal ring style make him as formidable and unpredictable an opponent today as he was in his prime.
Internationally known as The Madman of the Sudan, the 400 pound monster terrorized opponents and fans alike with his ferocious assaults, using a dinner fork to draw blood and create havoc in every arena he entered.
Considering the current WWE non-bloodletting PG era of programming the addition of one of the wrestling industry’s most notorious innovators of violence to the esteemed hall of fame is an interesting one indeed and one that such a living legend as this deserves..
Abdullah never raised a major singles title or drew huge crowds in the US for the WWE, but he did sell-out arenas elsewhere face such stars as Andre the Giant, Hulk Hogan, Bruiser Brody, Terry Funk, Giant Baba and many others in bloody brawls across Puerto Rico, Japan and Mexico.
Abdullah will be joining fellow inductees Shawn Michaels, Tammy ‘Sunny’ Sytch, ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan, ‘Bullet’ Bob Armstrong and comedian Drew Carey in this year’s ceremony, which will take place on Apr 2nd over Wrestlemania weekend.
By Phil Allely
Garbage match legend Abdullah The Butcher (Larry Shreve) is the latest wrestler to be added to the WWE’s Hall of Fame this year.
The infamous blood-spiller who is now well into his 70s has been performing in rings large and small across the globe for over 50 years, showing no signs of letting up yet. The wild eyed maniac’s appearance (with deep forehead scars are so prominent he can balance coins in them) and brutal ring style make him as formidable and unpredictable an opponent today as he was in his prime.
Internationally known as The Madman of the Sudan, the 400 pound monster terrorized opponents and fans alike with his ferocious assaults, using a dinner fork to draw blood and create havoc in every arena he entered.
Considering the current WWE non-bloodletting PG era of programming the addition of one of the wrestling industry’s most notorious innovators of violence to the esteemed hall of fame is an interesting one indeed and one that such a living legend as this deserves..
Abdullah never raised a major singles title or drew huge crowds in the US for the WWE, but he did sell-out arenas elsewhere face such stars as Andre the Giant, Hulk Hogan, Bruiser Brody, Terry Funk, Giant Baba and many others in bloody brawls across Puerto Rico, Japan and Mexico.
Abdullah will be joining fellow inductees Shawn Michaels, Tammy ‘Sunny’ Sytch, ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan, ‘Bullet’ Bob Armstrong and comedian Drew Carey in this year’s ceremony, which will take place on Apr 2nd over Wrestlemania weekend.
Trish Stratus Interview Highlights
IGN.com features an interview with multi-time WWE Women's Champion Trish Stratus promoting the USA Network's revival of Tough Enough, who appears as a trainer on the show. She notes that many of the contestants have previous wrestling experience.
"A lot of the contestants have a background," Stratus said. "They come from wrestling backgrounds. They've been doing it for a few years, but it's an entirely different thing to be doing it on the big stage and to do it professionally and to do it with the grind of the big WWE machine."
Stratus said of current WWE talent, Natalya is "untapped."
She explained, "Fans are starting to get to know her more and more and I'm just waiting for the day where she goes out there and really can do her thing because I don't think she's been given the opportunity to really get out there and show everybody what she's got."
In light of Sunny's induction into this year's WWE Hall of Fame class, Stratus suggested that Chyna be enshrined next.
"I think Chyna should be next in because she did a lot of stuff to bring attention to the women's division itself and just presented women as a different thing," Stratus said. "I think fans were conditioned to see women as eye candy for a long, long time and she really broke the mold with that."
"A lot of the contestants have a background," Stratus said. "They come from wrestling backgrounds. They've been doing it for a few years, but it's an entirely different thing to be doing it on the big stage and to do it professionally and to do it with the grind of the big WWE machine."
Stratus said of current WWE talent, Natalya is "untapped."
She explained, "Fans are starting to get to know her more and more and I'm just waiting for the day where she goes out there and really can do her thing because I don't think she's been given the opportunity to really get out there and show everybody what she's got."
In light of Sunny's induction into this year's WWE Hall of Fame class, Stratus suggested that Chyna be enshrined next.
"I think Chyna should be next in because she did a lot of stuff to bring attention to the women's division itself and just presented women as a different thing," Stratus said. "I think fans were conditioned to see women as eye candy for a long, long time and she really broke the mold with that."
Monday, 21 March 2011
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