WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross is back with a new blog on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights:
- I sincerely appreciated Michael Cole's handshake welcoming me to the announce table [at WrestleMania 28]. Very classy.
- Brock Lesnar's return to WWE is significant to say the least. I'm excited to see where the future takes the former WWE & UFC Champion. In mere minutes, Lesnar became a force to be dealt with in WWE. Interesting days certainly lie a head for the F5 machine.
- I covet my time in WWE's developmental program. Been here all week. Working with the enthusiastic, talented young athletes is so rewarding. Great things are on going on Dale Mabry in Tampa. Tonight is the FCW TV taping and I can't wait. Several FCW talents are either being introduced or on the cusp of such on a WWE roster. Expect to see several new personas in the coming weeks on RAW & Smackdown. Congrats to all who've earned an opportunity.
Showing posts with label jrsbbq. Show all posts
Showing posts with label jrsbbq. Show all posts
Friday, 6 April 2012
Saturday, 6 August 2011
New Jim Ross Blog Highlights
WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross is back with a new blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights from this entry:
- Do I hate Michael Cole? No. I really try to not be a 'hater' as I've worked with too many people in my life that were. They're no fun to be around. Cole is in a challenging spot trying to raise his game to the level of the antagonist Lawler, Cornette, Ventura, Heyman, JBL, and Bobby Heenan. I do know that our three man team will evolve on Raw nicely. Thsi has zero to do with some, like me by and large, who prefer a two man announce team. I'm not a big fan of the three man booth on Monday Night Football, BTW.
- Do I prefer reality based sports entertainment or the 'bigger than life' spectacle style of presentation? Reality based by far. Not big on eye rolling, "are you kidding me?" type presentations. The more believable and more plausible the better for me.
- Will JR and Michael Cole have a 'blow off match?' Good Lord, I hope not. Why continue to punish the audience? That ship has sailed plus after a 2nd abdominal surgery only a few weeks ago that's the last thing that I need to be doing. Here's a novel idea, how about more wrestlers getting in the mix?
- I'm looking forward to being in San Jose for Raw Monday night as the last Raw before a PPV is usually a strong effort. The success of Summer Slam largely rests on the shoulders of CM Punk and John Cena notwithstanding the Smackdown main event of Randy Orton vs. Christian for the World Title. I'm anxious to broadcast the longer bouts that are often featured on PPV. I don't know the announce team assignment for Summer Slam but I'll prepare like I'm going to do 'em all.
- Do I hate Michael Cole? No. I really try to not be a 'hater' as I've worked with too many people in my life that were. They're no fun to be around. Cole is in a challenging spot trying to raise his game to the level of the antagonist Lawler, Cornette, Ventura, Heyman, JBL, and Bobby Heenan. I do know that our three man team will evolve on Raw nicely. Thsi has zero to do with some, like me by and large, who prefer a two man announce team. I'm not a big fan of the three man booth on Monday Night Football, BTW.
- Do I prefer reality based sports entertainment or the 'bigger than life' spectacle style of presentation? Reality based by far. Not big on eye rolling, "are you kidding me?" type presentations. The more believable and more plausible the better for me.
- Will JR and Michael Cole have a 'blow off match?' Good Lord, I hope not. Why continue to punish the audience? That ship has sailed plus after a 2nd abdominal surgery only a few weeks ago that's the last thing that I need to be doing. Here's a novel idea, how about more wrestlers getting in the mix?
- I'm looking forward to being in San Jose for Raw Monday night as the last Raw before a PPV is usually a strong effort. The success of Summer Slam largely rests on the shoulders of CM Punk and John Cena notwithstanding the Smackdown main event of Randy Orton vs. Christian for the World Title. I'm anxious to broadcast the longer bouts that are often featured on PPV. I don't know the announce team assignment for Summer Slam but I'll prepare like I'm going to do 'em all.
Sunday, 29 May 2011
New Jim Ross Blog
Jim Ross posted a brand new blog on his website commenting on Brock Lesnar’s book, “Macho Man” Randy Savage” and more. Here are some highlights:
Roundtable: “BTW and speaking of legends, we are preparing to shoot two more Legends Roundtables in a week or so. Not sure of the complete panel, I think that Michael Hayes, JJ Dillon and myself are 3 of the 4, or the topics. It’s one of my favorite things to do especially now that I’m not on the air weekly. Love the atmosphere and the honesty of the panel and am anxious to hear of the subjects, panelists and air dates which are all TBD.”
Randy Savage’s Influences: “Tweeter follower asked me where I thought Randy Savage got the majority of his in ring influences. Savage was very individualistic but I’ve always been of the mindset that his costumes and music were somewhat influenced by WWE HOF’er Gorgeous George. Randy was amazingly intense, virtually 24/7, and brought natural athleticism to the squared circle. We never always agreed on a variety of professional matters and had our share of disagreements but never once did i not respect his in ring ability and the fact that he was one of the biggest , pro wrestling stars of all time.”
Lesnar Autobiography: “Anxiously awaiting my copy of the Brock Lesnar/Paul Heyman book ‘Death Clutch’ and somewhat curious to see how yours truly is depicted by Brock after a less than celebratory departing from WWE while I was an executive w/ the company.”
Writers: “Emailer…Why on Earth would you really want to be a ‘wrestling writer?’ As John McEnroe once screamed to a tennis official, “You CAN’T be serious!” I’m not one to throw water on anyone’s dreams but the life of a ‘wrestling writer’ is often times thankless, tireless, and massively over scrutinized. I know that I couldn’t handle it in today’s marketplace.”
Roundtable: “BTW and speaking of legends, we are preparing to shoot two more Legends Roundtables in a week or so. Not sure of the complete panel, I think that Michael Hayes, JJ Dillon and myself are 3 of the 4, or the topics. It’s one of my favorite things to do especially now that I’m not on the air weekly. Love the atmosphere and the honesty of the panel and am anxious to hear of the subjects, panelists and air dates which are all TBD.”
Randy Savage’s Influences: “Tweeter follower asked me where I thought Randy Savage got the majority of his in ring influences. Savage was very individualistic but I’ve always been of the mindset that his costumes and music were somewhat influenced by WWE HOF’er Gorgeous George. Randy was amazingly intense, virtually 24/7, and brought natural athleticism to the squared circle. We never always agreed on a variety of professional matters and had our share of disagreements but never once did i not respect his in ring ability and the fact that he was one of the biggest , pro wrestling stars of all time.”
Lesnar Autobiography: “Anxiously awaiting my copy of the Brock Lesnar/Paul Heyman book ‘Death Clutch’ and somewhat curious to see how yours truly is depicted by Brock after a less than celebratory departing from WWE while I was an executive w/ the company.”
Writers: “Emailer…Why on Earth would you really want to be a ‘wrestling writer?’ As John McEnroe once screamed to a tennis official, “You CAN’T be serious!” I’m not one to throw water on anyone’s dreams but the life of a ‘wrestling writer’ is often times thankless, tireless, and massively over scrutinized. I know that I couldn’t handle it in today’s marketplace.”
Friday, 20 May 2011
New Jim Ross Blog Highlights
Jim Ross has a new blog entry up at http://www.JRSBARBQ.com/ Here are the highlights…
On Stealing Moves: ‘Stealing wrestling moves’ is so much to do about nothing in my opinion. If not, is Ed ‘Stranger’ Lewis spinning in his grave every time we see the occasional headlock utilized when an athlete actually applies logical, wrestling holds? Or what about circus trapeze artists when a wrestling match breaks down into not much more than a succession of flips, flops, and flies leading to an inside cradle for the eventual pin?
On Steve Austin & Tough Enough: @steveaustinBSR has made Tough Enough his own vehicle and if season #2 rolls around and Steve is able to interject himself from the beginning of the process, I’ll predict that next season’s Tough Enough will be even better. I love the editing and look of the show and could see a DVD extra on a WWE PPV featuring outtakes, etc. None of the kids have jumped off the TV at me as of yet but that could change anytime. @TheRock guest stars next Monday on the USA Network just before Raw from Portland, Oregon.
On His Bet With JBL: @jclayfield aka JBL and I have a bet on the NBA Western Conference Finals between Oklahoma City and Dallas. I’ve got the Thunder and JBL has the Mavs for a case of our Original BBQ Sauce vs. a case of John’s New Leaf iced tea. Unless Dirk Nowitski gets kidnapped, I may be getting ready to ship JR’s Original to the island of Bermuda.
On Working Memphis: No, I never worked in the Memphis territory. They had Lance Russell and Dave Brown and certainly didn’t need me. Lance, in particular, was one of the businesses all time great voices and a man of class and integrity which there wasn’t an abundance of in many old school, wrestling territories.
Be sure to check out the full blog at http://www.JRSBARBQ.com/
On Stealing Moves: ‘Stealing wrestling moves’ is so much to do about nothing in my opinion. If not, is Ed ‘Stranger’ Lewis spinning in his grave every time we see the occasional headlock utilized when an athlete actually applies logical, wrestling holds? Or what about circus trapeze artists when a wrestling match breaks down into not much more than a succession of flips, flops, and flies leading to an inside cradle for the eventual pin?
On Steve Austin & Tough Enough: @steveaustinBSR has made Tough Enough his own vehicle and if season #2 rolls around and Steve is able to interject himself from the beginning of the process, I’ll predict that next season’s Tough Enough will be even better. I love the editing and look of the show and could see a DVD extra on a WWE PPV featuring outtakes, etc. None of the kids have jumped off the TV at me as of yet but that could change anytime. @TheRock guest stars next Monday on the USA Network just before Raw from Portland, Oregon.
On His Bet With JBL: @jclayfield aka JBL and I have a bet on the NBA Western Conference Finals between Oklahoma City and Dallas. I’ve got the Thunder and JBL has the Mavs for a case of our Original BBQ Sauce vs. a case of John’s New Leaf iced tea. Unless Dirk Nowitski gets kidnapped, I may be getting ready to ship JR’s Original to the island of Bermuda.
On Working Memphis: No, I never worked in the Memphis territory. They had Lance Russell and Dave Brown and certainly didn’t need me. Lance, in particular, was one of the businesses all time great voices and a man of class and integrity which there wasn’t an abundance of in many old school, wrestling territories.
Be sure to check out the full blog at http://www.JRSBARBQ.com/
Sunday, 15 May 2011
New Jim Ross Blog Highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights:
- How did WWE do in Mexico City? HUGE...almost 20,000 people and a live gate hovering just under $1M. WWE will produce TVs in Mexico City this fall which has been on the drawing board from quite some time. W/ Rey Mysterio, Alberto Del Rio, and now Sin Cara in the fold, WWE has significantly strengthened its position in the Mexico marketplace as their TV ratings indicate. Strong TV clearances in Mexico has been vital to WWE's growth there too.
- Will WWE begin to utilize managers again? Not sure what the story on that is but apparently Michael Hayes filled that role with Tyson Kidd on WWE Superstars this week which can be seen on http//www.wwe.com now. I assume 'PS' wore attire from his 'Don Cornelius/Soul Train' collection. If WWE does utilize 'managers' it will be new again and some key, manager additions can help younger talents in a variety of ways. I am a fan of managers. Arn Anderson would make a great mentor/manager IMO.
- What are my thoughts on Chyna returning to TV? Happy for her. Why wouldn't I be? She needs to earn a living too. Not sure where she is as it relates to her passion for the genre any longer but she is earning a pay day. For the record, I still don't endorse women wrestling men plus I never said Chyna was undeserving of Hall of Fame consideration as some misinterpreted.
- Best match of the week on TV? Hard to say...subjecitve question but I enjoyed Sin Cara vs. Daniel Bryan on Smackdown about as much as anything, off the top of my head, that I saw all week. Cara is unique and Bryan is vastly underrated. Both men are innovative.
- How did WWE do in Mexico City? HUGE...almost 20,000 people and a live gate hovering just under $1M. WWE will produce TVs in Mexico City this fall which has been on the drawing board from quite some time. W/ Rey Mysterio, Alberto Del Rio, and now Sin Cara in the fold, WWE has significantly strengthened its position in the Mexico marketplace as their TV ratings indicate. Strong TV clearances in Mexico has been vital to WWE's growth there too.
- Will WWE begin to utilize managers again? Not sure what the story on that is but apparently Michael Hayes filled that role with Tyson Kidd on WWE Superstars this week which can be seen on http//www.wwe.com now. I assume 'PS' wore attire from his 'Don Cornelius/Soul Train' collection. If WWE does utilize 'managers' it will be new again and some key, manager additions can help younger talents in a variety of ways. I am a fan of managers. Arn Anderson would make a great mentor/manager IMO.
- What are my thoughts on Chyna returning to TV? Happy for her. Why wouldn't I be? She needs to earn a living too. Not sure where she is as it relates to her passion for the genre any longer but she is earning a pay day. For the record, I still don't endorse women wrestling men plus I never said Chyna was undeserving of Hall of Fame consideration as some misinterpreted.
- Best match of the week on TV? Hard to say...subjecitve question but I enjoyed Sin Cara vs. Daniel Bryan on Smackdown about as much as anything, off the top of my head, that I saw all week. Cara is unique and Bryan is vastly underrated. Both men are innovative.
Monday, 9 May 2011
New JR Blog (Jim Ross) Highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights:
- Do I think that Hulk Hogan will ever return to WWE? This is a classic, never say never answer IMO....BROTHER! Crazier things have happened BROTHER and one could theoretically see some sort of PR role for Hulk down the road. Who knows? Not something that I dwell on to be honest with you BROTHER.
- Owen Hart. He would have had a birthday a few days ago I'm told. The talented and proud Canadian was so underrated by so many seemingly until after Owen left us. I don't know when or if an Owen Hart DVD will be produced by WWE due to the seemingly endless and on going legal/PR issues with his estate. Too bad in my opinion as Owen's story would be a great one as he was one of the most well liked and skilled individuals I ever met in my career.
- Christian and Randy Orton had a great, TV match on Smackdown but I don't buy into the 'tragedy' that some fans flooded us with here on our site due to Christian losing the World Title. It isn't as if the loss ended Christian's career and who's to say that 'Captain Charisma' won't regain the title at a later date? Those that truly understand the nature of the genre have a different mindset than those who are knee jerking themselves silly.
- Referees names on WWE TV are not provided to viewers because that is a long standing instruction from management. This isn't a new development and has been this way for a long time. Next.
- Do I think that Hulk Hogan will ever return to WWE? This is a classic, never say never answer IMO....BROTHER! Crazier things have happened BROTHER and one could theoretically see some sort of PR role for Hulk down the road. Who knows? Not something that I dwell on to be honest with you BROTHER.
- Owen Hart. He would have had a birthday a few days ago I'm told. The talented and proud Canadian was so underrated by so many seemingly until after Owen left us. I don't know when or if an Owen Hart DVD will be produced by WWE due to the seemingly endless and on going legal/PR issues with his estate. Too bad in my opinion as Owen's story would be a great one as he was one of the most well liked and skilled individuals I ever met in my career.
- Christian and Randy Orton had a great, TV match on Smackdown but I don't buy into the 'tragedy' that some fans flooded us with here on our site due to Christian losing the World Title. It isn't as if the loss ended Christian's career and who's to say that 'Captain Charisma' won't regain the title at a later date? Those that truly understand the nature of the genre have a different mindset than those who are knee jerking themselves silly.
- Referees names on WWE TV are not provided to viewers because that is a long standing instruction from management. This isn't a new development and has been this way for a long time. Next.
Friday, 29 April 2011
New JRs BBQ highlights Jim Ross
Jim Ross is back with another blog over on jrsbarbq.com. As usual, here are some of the highlights:
- Hopefully, Cole and I did not overly offend too many of you wrestling purists with our 'exhibition' Monday night. It earned the top quarter hour TV rating on the program for the night and that distinction has already been throughly analyzed by those who earn a living covering the genre. Lots of ways for that data to be dissected one can argue.
- My right hand is somewhat banged up and the x-rays were not overly encouraging Tuesday but it won't keep me from doing what I need to do on Sunday at Extreme Rules.
- Cole's tooth went to the bone on a knuckle on my right hand which caused bleeding from my hand and his lip for those that have asked. Apparently the risk of infection from a human tooth IE a bite or something like what occurred Monday night is potentially harmful so we've been very careful with the infection aspect of the 'wound' in addition to caring for a sore hand.
- Interesting that WWE Raw defeated both NBA playoff games Monday night in the TV ratings race. Based on NBA rights fees, WWE is a bargain for USA Network based on the ratings the program has earned year after year. One of those NBA games featured was my OKC Thunder.
- Congrats to Chris Jericho for his amazing run on DWTS on ABC. @IAmJericho is one of the most multi talented performers with which I've ever been associated. Without question, one has to assume that many doors were opened by Chris' performance on DWTS as it relates to potential, future gigs in 'Hollywood'. We're getting tons of emails and tweets @JRsBBQ asking when Jericho is coming back to WWE. I have heard nothing regarding this matter from any one in any official capacity. I do think that Chris will likely have another run in WWE but whether it is this year or next is completely Chris and the WWE's call. The day Jericho returns he will zoom up the ladder as arguably the most talented, all around grappler on the roster at this time.
- Hopefully, Cole and I did not overly offend too many of you wrestling purists with our 'exhibition' Monday night. It earned the top quarter hour TV rating on the program for the night and that distinction has already been throughly analyzed by those who earn a living covering the genre. Lots of ways for that data to be dissected one can argue.
- My right hand is somewhat banged up and the x-rays were not overly encouraging Tuesday but it won't keep me from doing what I need to do on Sunday at Extreme Rules.
- Cole's tooth went to the bone on a knuckle on my right hand which caused bleeding from my hand and his lip for those that have asked. Apparently the risk of infection from a human tooth IE a bite or something like what occurred Monday night is potentially harmful so we've been very careful with the infection aspect of the 'wound' in addition to caring for a sore hand.
- Interesting that WWE Raw defeated both NBA playoff games Monday night in the TV ratings race. Based on NBA rights fees, WWE is a bargain for USA Network based on the ratings the program has earned year after year. One of those NBA games featured was my OKC Thunder.
- Congrats to Chris Jericho for his amazing run on DWTS on ABC. @IAmJericho is one of the most multi talented performers with which I've ever been associated. Without question, one has to assume that many doors were opened by Chris' performance on DWTS as it relates to potential, future gigs in 'Hollywood'. We're getting tons of emails and tweets @JRsBBQ asking when Jericho is coming back to WWE. I have heard nothing regarding this matter from any one in any official capacity. I do think that Chris will likely have another run in WWE but whether it is this year or next is completely Chris and the WWE's call. The day Jericho returns he will zoom up the ladder as arguably the most talented, all around grappler on the roster at this time.
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.
Friday, 25 March 2011
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
Monday, 21 March 2011
Jim Ross New Blog
Jim Ross is back with another blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are some of the highlights:
- The next Legends Roundtable program will be out in a few weeks and it's on Canada's influence on pro wrestling. Another interesting and intriguing topic.
- The THQ commercial that was voiced by The King and me for the WWE All Stars video game has been all over the NCAA March Madness basketball tourney Saturday. Several of my buddies have text me that they heard it as did I, surprisingly so, several times during the tournament games. "Business Has Picked Up!"
- BTW my ankle is still tender but isn't as swollen and is improving. I like to think that I have a relatively high threshold of pain so the ankle issue is more of a nuisance than anything now.
- Tough Enough, by all accounts, was very successful and now it will be interesting to see how the producers, etc edit the show for air. TE premiers right after Monday Night Raw the night after Wrestlemania 27. I know that Steve Austin enjoyed his experience on TE especially working with such a dedicated and talented crew.
- Yes....I do think that Wade Barrett is a bright future in WWE and I also think that after WM27 concludes that Barrett will be among many younger talents that will be expected and counted upon to raise their game and to build equity into future, main event opportunities in WWE. Barrett is and looks athletic and can talk. I like his upside.
- The next Legends Roundtable program will be out in a few weeks and it's on Canada's influence on pro wrestling. Another interesting and intriguing topic.
- The THQ commercial that was voiced by The King and me for the WWE All Stars video game has been all over the NCAA March Madness basketball tourney Saturday. Several of my buddies have text me that they heard it as did I, surprisingly so, several times during the tournament games. "Business Has Picked Up!"
- BTW my ankle is still tender but isn't as swollen and is improving. I like to think that I have a relatively high threshold of pain so the ankle issue is more of a nuisance than anything now.
- Tough Enough, by all accounts, was very successful and now it will be interesting to see how the producers, etc edit the show for air. TE premiers right after Monday Night Raw the night after Wrestlemania 27. I know that Steve Austin enjoyed his experience on TE especially working with such a dedicated and talented crew.
- Yes....I do think that Wade Barrett is a bright future in WWE and I also think that after WM27 concludes that Barrett will be among many younger talents that will be expected and counted upon to raise their game and to build equity into future, main event opportunities in WWE. Barrett is and looks athletic and can talk. I like his upside.
Monday, 14 March 2011
JR's New Blog Highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog on jrsbarbq.com where he talks about UFC purchasing Strikeforce. Here are some of the wrestling-related highlights:
- It is still a head scratcher to me as to what role @TheRock will play, if any, in the WWE Title Bout at WM27. A good piece of road has been traveled in that vehicle to not deliver the good in some fashion, or so it would seem. This mater alone makes this Wrestlemania hard to definitively predict.
- WM27 ticket sales are well north of 50,000 paid for well over a $5M gate and I'm predicting that the event will do between 65-75,000 fans for a gate of over $6M and perhaps getting close to $7M. When I broadcast the first event ever in the Georgia Dome, an Atlanta Falcon exhibition football game, in 1992, never in my wildest dream did I ever imagine that I would be attending a wrestling event in the house that Deion Sanders used to electrify that it would be packed.
- It is still a head scratcher to me as to what role @TheRock will play, if any, in the WWE Title Bout at WM27. A good piece of road has been traveled in that vehicle to not deliver the good in some fashion, or so it would seem. This mater alone makes this Wrestlemania hard to definitively predict.
- WM27 ticket sales are well north of 50,000 paid for well over a $5M gate and I'm predicting that the event will do between 65-75,000 fans for a gate of over $6M and perhaps getting close to $7M. When I broadcast the first event ever in the Georgia Dome, an Atlanta Falcon exhibition football game, in 1992, never in my wildest dream did I ever imagine that I would be attending a wrestling event in the house that Deion Sanders used to electrify that it would be packed.
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
Jim Ross BBQ New blog highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog on jrsbarbq.com, looking at last night's RAW. Here are some highlights:
- Thought the cold open to the show featuring Undertaker/HHH was on the money and edited well. WWE TV folks do a marvelous job with their video features. IMO the Taker-HHH match could efficiently be promoted via video packages of the two future WWE HOF'ers greatest moments in WWE.
- Keep an eye on Brodus Clay. I think that he can be something special and him manifesting that particular 'it' is on him and how well he maximizes his minutes on TV. He's a big, monster of a man who mentally seems to 'get it.'
- Congrats to Sunny on being named to the 2011 WWE HOF class. She really started it all with the risqué, Diva personification and portrayed a very effective 'bad girl.' One might say that the forecast for Atlanta the first weekend of April are for 'Sunny days.'
- The Dallas/WWE fans definitely came to see Stone Cold Steve Austin. Although Austin did not have that much to say nor did he overstay his welcome by any stretch, Austin stole the show Monday night and seemed to be having a great time interacting with the fans and even the cameramen. Austin's fans long ago made a strong emotional bond with the Texas Rattlesnake that will seemingly last forever. @steveaustinBSR, on Twitter, can still command an audience as good as any WWE performer today or any previous generation.
- Michael Cole had the tables turned on him with Austin becoming the special referee for Cole's WM27 match w/ Jerry Lawler. It will be interesting to see how 'Cole sore' reacts this Friday night on Smackdown and again next Monday from St. Louis on Raw. Cole draws as much villain angst as anyone on the Raw roster and his match with the King is one of the most talked about bouts that we will see in Atlanta. I think that Lawler ought to make Cole wear a diaper when, not if, the King gets his hand raised at Jerry's first ever Wrestlemania match.
- Thought the cold open to the show featuring Undertaker/HHH was on the money and edited well. WWE TV folks do a marvelous job with their video features. IMO the Taker-HHH match could efficiently be promoted via video packages of the two future WWE HOF'ers greatest moments in WWE.
- Keep an eye on Brodus Clay. I think that he can be something special and him manifesting that particular 'it' is on him and how well he maximizes his minutes on TV. He's a big, monster of a man who mentally seems to 'get it.'
- Congrats to Sunny on being named to the 2011 WWE HOF class. She really started it all with the risqué, Diva personification and portrayed a very effective 'bad girl.' One might say that the forecast for Atlanta the first weekend of April are for 'Sunny days.'
- The Dallas/WWE fans definitely came to see Stone Cold Steve Austin. Although Austin did not have that much to say nor did he overstay his welcome by any stretch, Austin stole the show Monday night and seemed to be having a great time interacting with the fans and even the cameramen. Austin's fans long ago made a strong emotional bond with the Texas Rattlesnake that will seemingly last forever. @steveaustinBSR, on Twitter, can still command an audience as good as any WWE performer today or any previous generation.
- Michael Cole had the tables turned on him with Austin becoming the special referee for Cole's WM27 match w/ Jerry Lawler. It will be interesting to see how 'Cole sore' reacts this Friday night on Smackdown and again next Monday from St. Louis on Raw. Cole draws as much villain angst as anyone on the Raw roster and his match with the King is one of the most talked about bouts that we will see in Atlanta. I think that Lawler ought to make Cole wear a diaper when, not if, the King gets his hand raised at Jerry's first ever Wrestlemania match.
Sunday, 20 February 2011
More Jim Ross Blog Highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog over on jrsbarbq.com. Here are a few highlights from this entry:
Jerry Lawler and his match with The Miz:
"Any one who thinks that it's simply not possible for Jerry Lawler, at age 61 and on a week where he buried his 90 year old mother, to win the WWE title against the Miz this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber needs to rethink their position. It is possible and it damn well could happen. I agree that the King is the underdog going in but what a story for the ages it would make if the WWE HOF'er did win the title. I'm not saying bet the farm on it but IF Jerry Lawler were to somehow, by hook or crook, defeat the Miz Sunday it would be one of the hottest topics around the WWE water cooler in years.
I admit that I legitimately have an emotional investment in this one because of my friendship with Jerry and after seeing first hand what he went through this week.
At least can we all agree that stranger things have happened in WWE over the years can we not?
Miz might not realize it today but Miz will be a better wrestler over the long haul after the learning experience that he will have Sunday night competing with the King."
The underrated William Regal:
"William Regal's brief yet effective cameo on the vintage (ugh) Khali Kiss Kam Monday night on Raw was yet another example of how talented the Brit truly is and why I consider Regal one of the most underrated talents in WWE. He's also a legit tough dude let me assure you."
Jerry Lawler and his match with The Miz:
"Any one who thinks that it's simply not possible for Jerry Lawler, at age 61 and on a week where he buried his 90 year old mother, to win the WWE title against the Miz this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber needs to rethink their position. It is possible and it damn well could happen. I agree that the King is the underdog going in but what a story for the ages it would make if the WWE HOF'er did win the title. I'm not saying bet the farm on it but IF Jerry Lawler were to somehow, by hook or crook, defeat the Miz Sunday it would be one of the hottest topics around the WWE water cooler in years.
I admit that I legitimately have an emotional investment in this one because of my friendship with Jerry and after seeing first hand what he went through this week.
At least can we all agree that stranger things have happened in WWE over the years can we not?
Miz might not realize it today but Miz will be a better wrestler over the long haul after the learning experience that he will have Sunday night competing with the King."
The underrated William Regal:
"William Regal's brief yet effective cameo on the vintage (ugh) Khali Kiss Kam Monday night on Raw was yet another example of how talented the Brit truly is and why I consider Regal one of the most underrated talents in WWE. He's also a legit tough dude let me assure you."
New Jim Ross Blog Highlights
Jim Ross is back with another blog on jrsbarbq.com. Here are highlights:
SmackDown going live:
"No...I don't ever see Friday Night Smackdown going live, full time IE weekly. It might happen occasionally but it isn't cost effective or travel friendly to do live TV on Mondays, Fridays, and some Sundays and still try to do live event touring. Makes no sense."
The Angle-Jarrett storyline in TNA:
"An emailer asked me what I thought about recent TNA storylines involving Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Jarrett and their children. I'm not a regular viewer of TNA first of all but what I have seen of this storyline that's allegedly based in reality isn't my cup of tea. I could care less what the adults do in their storyline but having minor children involved doesn't personally work for me. TNA isn't my hill to die upon and I harbor no ill will toward them but I find it challenging to believe that some individuals actually think that this is effective, episodic TV."
Tonight's Elimination Chamber:
"I'm anxiously looking forward to Sunday's Elimination Chamber PPV from WWE that emanates from Oakland. Obviously, and based on precedent, the Chamber bouts will occupy the majority of the ring time on this event but my focus is on the King vs. Miz bout for the WWE Title. Miz will likely see every trick in the wrestler's handbook in this one and I don't expect this title bout to be a marathon. It can't be a marathon bout if The King Jerry Lawler wants to win the WWE Title IMO. The 61 year old WWE HOF'er, who buried his 90 year old mother on Wednesday, needs to essentially tell us what time it is and not how to make the watch when Jerry looks to make history. Not only would Jerry be the oldest WWE Champion ever, or so I think, he would also be in rarefied air as a WWE Hall of Famer who wins the title after being inducted into the WWE HOF."
SmackDown going live:
"No...I don't ever see Friday Night Smackdown going live, full time IE weekly. It might happen occasionally but it isn't cost effective or travel friendly to do live TV on Mondays, Fridays, and some Sundays and still try to do live event touring. Makes no sense."
The Angle-Jarrett storyline in TNA:
"An emailer asked me what I thought about recent TNA storylines involving Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Jarrett and their children. I'm not a regular viewer of TNA first of all but what I have seen of this storyline that's allegedly based in reality isn't my cup of tea. I could care less what the adults do in their storyline but having minor children involved doesn't personally work for me. TNA isn't my hill to die upon and I harbor no ill will toward them but I find it challenging to believe that some individuals actually think that this is effective, episodic TV."
Tonight's Elimination Chamber:
"I'm anxiously looking forward to Sunday's Elimination Chamber PPV from WWE that emanates from Oakland. Obviously, and based on precedent, the Chamber bouts will occupy the majority of the ring time on this event but my focus is on the King vs. Miz bout for the WWE Title. Miz will likely see every trick in the wrestler's handbook in this one and I don't expect this title bout to be a marathon. It can't be a marathon bout if The King Jerry Lawler wants to win the WWE Title IMO. The 61 year old WWE HOF'er, who buried his 90 year old mother on Wednesday, needs to essentially tell us what time it is and not how to make the watch when Jerry looks to make history. Not only would Jerry be the oldest WWE Champion ever, or so I think, he would also be in rarefied air as a WWE Hall of Famer who wins the title after being inducted into the WWE HOF."
Monday, 7 February 2011
Jim Ross New Blog
Steve Austin is very excited about hosting the new season of Tough Enough. It will be interesting to see how much star power and expertise is put in place when the training staff is announced. My instincts say that Austin will have a strong team to help him with the trainees. This will be a great opportunity for Stone Cold to be Stone Cold and to re-engage his many fans on a weekly TV series of which I have great expectations for and will be watching and DVR'ing every week. I do not know the status of Tough Enough airing outside the USA for those that are asking.
Talked to Jesse White, Big Van Vader's son, recently and he is working hard to earn a look from WWE sometime in the future. Jesse is around 6'1" or so and around 240 pounds and was an outstanding high school football player who has a degree from Oklahoma University. Making it today in the wrestling biz isn't easy and I hope that Jesse is able to facilitate his dream of having a successful career in the squared circle if that's what he truly wants to do.
Recruiting college educated, athletic, charismatic young people to try their hand at sports entertainment is the best route to take in my opinion. Some will make it and most won't but by recruiting these types of individuals one increases their chances of success.
Best wishes go out to former wrestling manager Sir Oliver Humperdink who is apparently battling kidney cancer. Hump was a great mouthpiece in the 70's-80's and we got to know each other way back in the day. Hump's team of the original Hollywood Blondes of Jerry Brown and Buddy Roberts was one of the most underrated tag teams I ever saw. Great wrestling villains with a manager that could tell their story and be a factor at ringside. God Bless Hump and keep him in your prayers.
Hopefully Hump will be feeling well enough to join us at the CAC function in Vegas in April. For more info on the wonderful organization, the Cauliflower Alley Club, check out www.caulifloweralleyclub.org.
How egocentric and ill guided is NFL star defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth who recently had a alleged physical altercation with a fellow motorist? Haynesworth seemingly needs professional help in making better decisions or he's going to end up being the moral of a sad story.
Emailer asked why 'surprises' in pro wrestling are so rare these days. My take is that it's the information age and people do a great deal of talking/texting/emailing notwithstanding that many shows are taped in advance of airings which releases a fair amount of info on which folks run with and report. As a fan, I don't have such a thirst for the 'dirt' and enjoy being surprised. 'Spoilers' are what they are but I generally refrain from reading them so that I can draw my own conclusions to a wrestling, TV show and not be pre-conditioned by what others decree.
Twitter follower @JRsBBQ wanted to know if Dusty Rhodes is interested in getting back into announcing wrestling bouts. I don't know that answer but I know that 'Dream' is a valuable asset in WWE's developmental system and enjoys working with the young talent and not traveling as extensively as he once was required to do. The last three hours of FCW TV that I saw produced in Tampa were excellent.
Speaking of developing young wrestlers, there is absolutely no more important facet of any wrestling organization than the development of young athletic, charismatic performers. The future of the biz depends on the stars of tomorrow. No one has the ability to wave the proverbial magic wand and create a star. It takes time, 3-5 years as a rule, for a competitor to develop their game to the level that one can actually see what their true potential is going to be and how they are going to fare with travel, enduring physical and mental challenges, and what kind of 'team player' they are.
Are there exceptions to the '3-5 year rule?' Obviously, but that's an arguable time line for most.
Emailer...Who invented the 'Coal Miner's Glove Match?' I have no idea. Does any one know the answer to this one? BTW this isn't referring to the voice of WWE Michael Cole's favorite bout.
Chris Jericho's latest book is getting excellent reviews by many that have read it. I'm due to get a copy soon and look forward to reading it. Chris' first book was a compelling read and sets the bar high as it relates to his literary efforts.
The Sting stories that have been on line regarding him coming to WWE have taken a life of their own. Will Sting ever come to WWE? Does a 51 year old guy want to engage in an ambitious, road schedule or any schedule? Could a deal be done and all the pieces be put in place before WM27? Is Sting even remotely interested in re-entering the squared circle on any level? I don't know the answers to these questions nor, would I suggest, does anyone but Sting himself. Agreed, any thing is possible but what is feasible, doable, etc are questions that none of us can answer. I have seen Sting once in approximately 15 years and that was for about 5 minutes in Charlotte last year at the annual fan convention. I do know that he is a great human being after being around him for over two decades beginning when he came to work for Bill Watts as one half of the Bladerunner tag team with Warrior. They were known as Sting and Rock as I recall when they began their careers with the large Cowboy. Some of my best memories of calling wrestling
Talked to Jesse White, Big Van Vader's son, recently and he is working hard to earn a look from WWE sometime in the future. Jesse is around 6'1" or so and around 240 pounds and was an outstanding high school football player who has a degree from Oklahoma University. Making it today in the wrestling biz isn't easy and I hope that Jesse is able to facilitate his dream of having a successful career in the squared circle if that's what he truly wants to do.
Recruiting college educated, athletic, charismatic young people to try their hand at sports entertainment is the best route to take in my opinion. Some will make it and most won't but by recruiting these types of individuals one increases their chances of success.
Best wishes go out to former wrestling manager Sir Oliver Humperdink who is apparently battling kidney cancer. Hump was a great mouthpiece in the 70's-80's and we got to know each other way back in the day. Hump's team of the original Hollywood Blondes of Jerry Brown and Buddy Roberts was one of the most underrated tag teams I ever saw. Great wrestling villains with a manager that could tell their story and be a factor at ringside. God Bless Hump and keep him in your prayers.
Hopefully Hump will be feeling well enough to join us at the CAC function in Vegas in April. For more info on the wonderful organization, the Cauliflower Alley Club, check out www.caulifloweralleyclub.org.
How egocentric and ill guided is NFL star defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth who recently had a alleged physical altercation with a fellow motorist? Haynesworth seemingly needs professional help in making better decisions or he's going to end up being the moral of a sad story.
Emailer asked why 'surprises' in pro wrestling are so rare these days. My take is that it's the information age and people do a great deal of talking/texting/emailing notwithstanding that many shows are taped in advance of airings which releases a fair amount of info on which folks run with and report. As a fan, I don't have such a thirst for the 'dirt' and enjoy being surprised. 'Spoilers' are what they are but I generally refrain from reading them so that I can draw my own conclusions to a wrestling, TV show and not be pre-conditioned by what others decree.
Twitter follower @JRsBBQ wanted to know if Dusty Rhodes is interested in getting back into announcing wrestling bouts. I don't know that answer but I know that 'Dream' is a valuable asset in WWE's developmental system and enjoys working with the young talent and not traveling as extensively as he once was required to do. The last three hours of FCW TV that I saw produced in Tampa were excellent.
Speaking of developing young wrestlers, there is absolutely no more important facet of any wrestling organization than the development of young athletic, charismatic performers. The future of the biz depends on the stars of tomorrow. No one has the ability to wave the proverbial magic wand and create a star. It takes time, 3-5 years as a rule, for a competitor to develop their game to the level that one can actually see what their true potential is going to be and how they are going to fare with travel, enduring physical and mental challenges, and what kind of 'team player' they are.
Are there exceptions to the '3-5 year rule?' Obviously, but that's an arguable time line for most.
Emailer...Who invented the 'Coal Miner's Glove Match?' I have no idea. Does any one know the answer to this one? BTW this isn't referring to the voice of WWE Michael Cole's favorite bout.
Chris Jericho's latest book is getting excellent reviews by many that have read it. I'm due to get a copy soon and look forward to reading it. Chris' first book was a compelling read and sets the bar high as it relates to his literary efforts.
The Sting stories that have been on line regarding him coming to WWE have taken a life of their own. Will Sting ever come to WWE? Does a 51 year old guy want to engage in an ambitious, road schedule or any schedule? Could a deal be done and all the pieces be put in place before WM27? Is Sting even remotely interested in re-entering the squared circle on any level? I don't know the answers to these questions nor, would I suggest, does anyone but Sting himself. Agreed, any thing is possible but what is feasible, doable, etc are questions that none of us can answer. I have seen Sting once in approximately 15 years and that was for about 5 minutes in Charlotte last year at the annual fan convention. I do know that he is a great human being after being around him for over two decades beginning when he came to work for Bill Watts as one half of the Bladerunner tag team with Warrior. They were known as Sting and Rock as I recall when they began their careers with the large Cowboy. Some of my best memories of calling wrestling
Monday, 17 January 2011
New extracts from JR's latest blog
WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross updated the blog section of JRsbarbq.com. The following are highlights:
Wrestlers Using Tanning Products: "Yes, wrestlers use spray tanning products to maintain their tans. Tanning beds aren't frequented as much by wrestlers as they once were. What a question."
Alex Riley: "I do have high expectations for Alex Riley. He seems athletic, articulate and intelligent. Only time will tell how far he goes but Riley has bonafide potential. FCW did a nice job of preparing Alex for WWE. Alex's future success is largely up to Alex."
Helms' Recent Rant On Shawn Michaels: "I haven't followed the recent interaction w/ Shane Helms re: HBK. I know its been out there but it really isn't something that I care to invest my time. Everyone has the right to express an opinion whether I or anyone else agrees with it or not."
NEW Kelly Kelly THONG BIKINI Pics + New MUST SEE Trish Stratus
Wrestlers Using Tanning Products: "Yes, wrestlers use spray tanning products to maintain their tans. Tanning beds aren't frequented as much by wrestlers as they once were. What a question."
Alex Riley: "I do have high expectations for Alex Riley. He seems athletic, articulate and intelligent. Only time will tell how far he goes but Riley has bonafide potential. FCW did a nice job of preparing Alex for WWE. Alex's future success is largely up to Alex."
Helms' Recent Rant On Shawn Michaels: "I haven't followed the recent interaction w/ Shane Helms re: HBK. I know its been out there but it really isn't something that I care to invest my time. Everyone has the right to express an opinion whether I or anyone else agrees with it or not."
NEW Kelly Kelly THONG BIKINI Pics + New MUST SEE Trish Stratus
Friday, 14 January 2011
Jim Ross's Most Recent Blog Highlights
Hello from the sunshine state of Florida! Let's get started w/ a Slobber Knocker collection of random thoughts.
I agree w/ a recent Kevin Nash Tweet that if WWE had a physical Hall of Fame that Shawn Michaels should have a statue erected in his honor. Was anyone in the modern age of wrestling ever a better all around performer? Only Ric Flair is likely in the same zip code considering years of service at the top of the card. As great a fan favorite as HBK was, I think his best work was as a villain.
Good to visit w/ Arn Anderson Wednesday in Tampa @ FCW. I hope the trainees learned some useful info as both Double A and I enjoy interacting w/ the rookies. Thursday night FCW will tape three, one hour TV shows.
The rookies are evaluated daily which is why it's imperative that they come to work each day and give 100% of themselves mentally and physically. I've encouraged them all to read plenty of wrestling books and self help/financial books. Financial planning is so important for individuals who potentially have shorter 'shelf lives' than those in other vocations.
Really surprised to read of the great 'get' of Brock Lesnar and his next opponent Junior Dos Santos as the next coaches for the UFC's TUF series. This will not only build to a mega fight w/ the two heavyweights but will also afford Brock the opportunity to promote his upcoming biography and his clothing line.
Some ask what motivated Lesnar to commit to several weeks of taping the program away from Minnesota and living in Las Vegas for approximately 6 weeks. The answer is marketing opportunities, building a PPV, and helping the company that the former WWE Champion works for to continue to build their brand. Bottom line....it's a win/win for all involved.
Again, a great 'get' for Dana White and company. But I'm still surprised.
Wednesday I had the opportunity to spend some time working w/ FCW referees. I was once a referee for Cowboy Bill Watts in the 70's and learned the craft from the 'Big Cowboy' and some great officials. Great refs are invaluable and can add so much to an in ring presentation.
I remember donning the striped shirt for a Dory Funk, Jr vs Harley Race NWA Title bout in Tulsa and I tried to catch both men violating the rules just as I would in any football or basketbll game I officiated. Try as I might, Dory & Harley allowed one to 'catch' them when they choose to do so. Those 2 HOF'ers were masters of their domain I assure you.
Today's rookies AND main eventers can learn a great deal by studying Race and Funk.
Emailer....Yes Scaffold Matches are very difficult to broadcast/call for a play by play guy. These type bouts limit what the athletes can do and are very dangerous. Don't know if WWE will ever do one but if they did it would likely be in a domed stadium at a Wrestlemania. The best Scaffold Match I ever saw was Rock 'n Roll Express vs. the Midnight Express back in the Mid South days. Most other Scaffold Matches that I've called or seen haven't been even close to the incomparable battles the two Express teams had.
Emailer....Even w/ your proposed AWA Title storyline, I don't think that a Jerry Lawler vs. Larry Zybszko match at a future Wrestlemania would ever happen. If Jerry gets his long awaited WM bout it would be w/ someone who's current on WWE TV. Does Larry still wrestle some?
I always thought Larry and I could have made an interesting broadcast team back in the day.
Emailer...Yes, my wife and I plan on being in Atlanta for WM27 but I have no plans at this time in doing any broadcasting. However, I wouldn't miss HBK being inducted in the WWE HOF for any thing. Plus, it will be fun to attend an event in the Georgia Dome where I used to broadcast Atlanta Falcons football.
Emailer...I have no idea who will induct HBK into the WWE HOF. HHH would do a great job IMO. So would Ric Flair among many other notable individuals. It's Shawn's call as it should be.
Emailer...I'm not in the SD vs Raw video game but am in the upcoming WWE All Star video game that will be released the Tuesday of WM27 week. I hope everyone buys it as 'baby needs new shoes.' It was a blast to do. Old school mixed w/ new school.
I agree w/ a recent Kevin Nash Tweet that if WWE had a physical Hall of Fame that Shawn Michaels should have a statue erected in his honor. Was anyone in the modern age of wrestling ever a better all around performer? Only Ric Flair is likely in the same zip code considering years of service at the top of the card. As great a fan favorite as HBK was, I think his best work was as a villain.
Good to visit w/ Arn Anderson Wednesday in Tampa @ FCW. I hope the trainees learned some useful info as both Double A and I enjoy interacting w/ the rookies. Thursday night FCW will tape three, one hour TV shows.
The rookies are evaluated daily which is why it's imperative that they come to work each day and give 100% of themselves mentally and physically. I've encouraged them all to read plenty of wrestling books and self help/financial books. Financial planning is so important for individuals who potentially have shorter 'shelf lives' than those in other vocations.
Really surprised to read of the great 'get' of Brock Lesnar and his next opponent Junior Dos Santos as the next coaches for the UFC's TUF series. This will not only build to a mega fight w/ the two heavyweights but will also afford Brock the opportunity to promote his upcoming biography and his clothing line.
Some ask what motivated Lesnar to commit to several weeks of taping the program away from Minnesota and living in Las Vegas for approximately 6 weeks. The answer is marketing opportunities, building a PPV, and helping the company that the former WWE Champion works for to continue to build their brand. Bottom line....it's a win/win for all involved.
Again, a great 'get' for Dana White and company. But I'm still surprised.
Wednesday I had the opportunity to spend some time working w/ FCW referees. I was once a referee for Cowboy Bill Watts in the 70's and learned the craft from the 'Big Cowboy' and some great officials. Great refs are invaluable and can add so much to an in ring presentation.
I remember donning the striped shirt for a Dory Funk, Jr vs Harley Race NWA Title bout in Tulsa and I tried to catch both men violating the rules just as I would in any football or basketbll game I officiated. Try as I might, Dory & Harley allowed one to 'catch' them when they choose to do so. Those 2 HOF'ers were masters of their domain I assure you.
Today's rookies AND main eventers can learn a great deal by studying Race and Funk.
Emailer....Yes Scaffold Matches are very difficult to broadcast/call for a play by play guy. These type bouts limit what the athletes can do and are very dangerous. Don't know if WWE will ever do one but if they did it would likely be in a domed stadium at a Wrestlemania. The best Scaffold Match I ever saw was Rock 'n Roll Express vs. the Midnight Express back in the Mid South days. Most other Scaffold Matches that I've called or seen haven't been even close to the incomparable battles the two Express teams had.
Emailer....Even w/ your proposed AWA Title storyline, I don't think that a Jerry Lawler vs. Larry Zybszko match at a future Wrestlemania would ever happen. If Jerry gets his long awaited WM bout it would be w/ someone who's current on WWE TV. Does Larry still wrestle some?
I always thought Larry and I could have made an interesting broadcast team back in the day.
Emailer...Yes, my wife and I plan on being in Atlanta for WM27 but I have no plans at this time in doing any broadcasting. However, I wouldn't miss HBK being inducted in the WWE HOF for any thing. Plus, it will be fun to attend an event in the Georgia Dome where I used to broadcast Atlanta Falcons football.
Emailer...I have no idea who will induct HBK into the WWE HOF. HHH would do a great job IMO. So would Ric Flair among many other notable individuals. It's Shawn's call as it should be.
Emailer...I'm not in the SD vs Raw video game but am in the upcoming WWE All Star video game that will be released the Tuesday of WM27 week. I hope everyone buys it as 'baby needs new shoes.' It was a blast to do. Old school mixed w/ new school.
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
JR's New Blog Highlights
WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog, which you can read in its entirety at jrsbarbq.com. Here are some highlights of what JR said about:
Shwan Michaels Joining WWE's Hall of Fame: "HBK is SO deserving and is arguably the greatest in ring performer of all time and let me tell you folks that statement covers a lot of ground."
"HBK was a 'natural' for the wrestling biz. He was a life long fan. He was a very good athlete. He had a natural swagger and loads of confidence, some critics would likely say too much confidence, once he stepped inside the ring. HBK knew that he was going to be great because he was willing to put in the work and study to get there. Congratulations Shawn. You are special in so many ways. The man you have grown to become is admirable. I am so proud of you for a multitude of reasons but nothing as much as you becoming the wonderful husband and father that you are."
Jerry Lawler's Recent Push On RAW: "Outside of John Cena, Orton, and John Morrison, perhaps, Jerry Lawler is on as nice a protagonist roll as any one on Raw. Good for Jerry and perhaps this will necessitate the King finally getting his long awaited, highly desired wrestling match at WM27."
CM Punk As The Leader Of Nexus: "CM Punk is ultra talented and in the span of a couple of episodes he has given me reasons to reinvest in Nexus again as I am curious as to how the Punk leading Nexus business plays out over time. More importantly, I'm curious as to what young athletes will 'breakout of the group in time as individual stars."
Shwan Michaels Joining WWE's Hall of Fame: "HBK is SO deserving and is arguably the greatest in ring performer of all time and let me tell you folks that statement covers a lot of ground."
"HBK was a 'natural' for the wrestling biz. He was a life long fan. He was a very good athlete. He had a natural swagger and loads of confidence, some critics would likely say too much confidence, once he stepped inside the ring. HBK knew that he was going to be great because he was willing to put in the work and study to get there. Congratulations Shawn. You are special in so many ways. The man you have grown to become is admirable. I am so proud of you for a multitude of reasons but nothing as much as you becoming the wonderful husband and father that you are."
Jerry Lawler's Recent Push On RAW: "Outside of John Cena, Orton, and John Morrison, perhaps, Jerry Lawler is on as nice a protagonist roll as any one on Raw. Good for Jerry and perhaps this will necessitate the King finally getting his long awaited, highly desired wrestling match at WM27."
CM Punk As The Leader Of Nexus: "CM Punk is ultra talented and in the span of a couple of episodes he has given me reasons to reinvest in Nexus again as I am curious as to how the Punk leading Nexus business plays out over time. More importantly, I'm curious as to what young athletes will 'breakout of the group in time as individual stars."
Thursday, 6 January 2011
Jim Ross' Recent Blog Entry January 2011
Greetings from under the black hat....actually that was a figure of speech because I'm not wearing my black hat at the moment but it's always close by if the phone rings with info necessitating 'hat duty.' BTW when I used my custom made, signature black hat on Michael Cole back in November when I was brought in from the pasture, that technique, according to The Duke, John Wayne, is referred to as 'hat fanning.' Vintage 'hat fanning' BTW. With that matter addressed and as UFC's Mike Goldberg would say, "Here we go!"
We're getting lots of emails and Tweets, @JRsBBQ, regarding Sting these days. BTW has he left TNA? I actually don't know the answer to that one but suspect that Sting is still officially with TNA. Nonetheless many fans hope that Sting is inducted in the WWE HOF in Atlanta at WM27. Theoretically, if Sting were not working for another wrestling company, it would be a splendid idea. It still might be but that's not for me to speculate on. Sting was the first and only WCW star that Turner's people 'made' in Atlanta that never wrestled for WWE as best that I recall.
I'd love to help produce a definitive Sting DVD some day as I was around him when he first started in the biz and teamed with the Ultimate Warrior, then known as Rock, in the UWF as the tag team duo known as the Bladerunners. The Bladerunners were going to be positioned as UWF's answer to the Road Warriors.
I keep reading all these 'hot rumors' as to who 'might' be inducted in Atlanta in April and the list keeps getting longer and more of a head scratcher the more folks speculate. I hope that the class does have a WCW/Atlanta feel but the class will likely be 6-8 inductions tops. Plus, WWE will want to not over do posthumous inductions if at all possible.
The WWE HOF Induction Ceremony is one of my favorite events of the year. The DVD of the event is one of my faves too because so much is cut out of the TV broadcast which, for a fan like me, could easily be a two hour show.
Tonight on WWE On Demand I enjoyed watching Dory Funk, Jr. win his first NWA Title at age 27 against Gene Kiniski in Tampa with Gordon Solie narrating some classic 'film' of a major moment in NWA history. That 10 minute piece of business is airing now. I'm a big fan of WWE On Demand. Big, Jerry, really big!
Had dinner this week at Ray's BBQ in Norman with former Sooner legend and the subject of the recent ESPN 30 for 30, Marcus Dupree. Marcus, who is moving back to Oklahoma soon, and I discussed several potential opportunities that may be available to him. Marcus is a huge wrestling fan, loved Mid South back in the day....BTW who was that handsome, young play by play dude back in the day...and is planning on actually wrestling on a benefit show in his home town of Philadelphia, Mississippi on Saturday February 19 as it is now scheduled. Marcus and I spoke some about his love of the wrestling biz but much more about projects that would be much more impactful coming off the heels of the critically acclaimed documentary that chronicled the life and struggling times of potentially the greatest running back that never became a true star. Marcus Dupree was the greatest, college freshman running back that I ever saw play and that includes Herschel Walker and Bo Jackson...not to mention a kid by the name of Adrian Peterson.
Stay tuned as something interesting may be in the works down the proverbial road involving #22 Marcus Dupree.
Love to receive feedback from those of you that use our products and how you use them. We're getting some great emails and Tweets from those of you who may have missed your opportunities to be chefs because of your creativity. It's also cool for people to pick out a recipe in our JR's Cookbook, a book that we personally autograph, and then tell us how they came out.
Sorry to hear of Paul Orndorff was recently diagnosed with having cancer. PO is a tough man, I know this without hype or speculation, and saw him in action as a young dude being mentored by Cowboy Bill Watts in Mid South Wrestling. Paul was a former running back for the University of Tampa and played with former NFL star Freddie Solomon. Our prayers are with PO and I have complete faith that Mr. Wonderful will be physically wonderful at the end of the day. Paul was a helluva hand in his day who was never afraid of 'heat' when he was one of the most hated villains in the business. Trust me, all wrestling villains could not honestly say that they had absolutely no fear of intense, fan angst but Mr. Wonderful could.
Smart move by the Tennessee Titians to release QB Vince Young and his seemingly selfish attitude that was always about Vince. My old theory was if you can't solve a problem it must be eliminated and that goes for any one on a wrestling roster and especially when business isn't red hot. The Titans were not red hot this past season. Good luck Mr. Young on your future endeavors but it's obvious that potential star QB's won't be out of work long term.
Perhaps Young could join the 'cast' of Storage Wars. When will the physicality be included in an episode of the new, A&E reality show? What a concept for a reality show.
Emailer...I have no plans at this time to begin a podcast. Honestly don't know how to pull it off technically. If I ever do a podcast, it will be of the more succinct variety that some are already doing and NOT of the 2+ hour variety that some do. More power to 'em but that just destroys my attention span and it's hard for me to invest that much time in a 2+ hour newscast/editorial presentation.
Who will be WWE MVP by year's end. If he stays healthy an argument could be made, at least in my point of view, that it might be CM Punk. Punk knows how to be physical and punishing in logical, easy to follow methods plus the guy can talk. Those traits work for me. Plus he won't miss work, moan about non, major injuries and seems to never burn out.
Emailer...best Royal Rumble match ever? Impossible for one person to answer that one conclusively.
The 1992 Rumble was really special because the winner actually won the WWE Title and that went to Ric Flair with Monsoon and Heenan at their best.
I can remember Rumble moments where specific talent got on a roll and had a flurry of action and eliminated multiple people in rapid fire, conclusive fashion. Kevin Nash did it. Kane did it. The Undertaker has done it multiple times to name a few. Several men have had head turning moments in the Rumble Match that provided them much needed momentum heading into Wrestlemania.
There's only one, 3 time winner...Stone Cold. Only two men have won Rumbles in back to back years, HBK and Austin....a pair of Texans.
The last time the Rumble was in Boston, this years site, Brock Lesnar won it all which was 2003. My how times have changed regarding Lesnar. BTW his book, co-written with Paul Heyman will be out in a few week. I'd love to get an advance copy so I can review it for you. I'm very anxious to read Brock's story of which I had a significant role. I hope I'm not hammered by him too badly but Brock assaulting one with the written word is infinitely healthier than a physical assault from one of the baddest men on Earth.
Co-winners were declared in 1994 when Bret Hart and Lex Luger shared the distinction of 'winning' the Rumble match. Are we due, possibly, for another controversial conclusion for the 2011 Royal Rumble match?
I've always thought that WWE could get mileage out of assigning Rumble Match numbers via competition like who gets the coveted #30 spot or even the #27 spot which, I think, is the # that most people have won the Rumble match after drawing it. Competing to not be anointed as the #1 entrant creates a great sense of urgency.
As a broadcaster, the Rumble match is the most challenging to call and the one thing that could theoretically make it a train wreck is to have a three man crew all jacked up on Diet Mountain Dew talking so much as if they forgot it was TV and not radio.
Emailer...Have I called my last event in any thing? I hope not and that's not my plan but my broadcasting work may not include regular WWE work but something outside the genre. As many know my absolute 'dream job' at this time would be the radio voice of the Oklahoma Sooner football team but as I have been honest and upfront when addressing this matter I feel that I will be a long shot at best. I'm not retreating but when on is branded so vividly as the 'wrestling guy' it might work against me. Or perhaps not. Time will certainly tell. Nonetheless that gig would be a dream come true. I know that my Dad and my grandpa who used to gather me around the radio when I was a kid would be listening in heaven without question. It's as if I have been preparing my entire broadcasting life for this one job.
Emailer...Can Daniel Bryan win the WWE Title? Of course he CAN win it but the question should be will he win it? I don't think that many experts thought Eddie Guerrero would take the top prize in WWE because of a perceived lack of physical size and other issues but Eddie succeeded. IMO physical size isn't the key trait to be WWE Champion. It's all about the individual having a superior skill set, the person's character, appeal to the masses and reliability....or so I feel.
We're getting lots of emails and Tweets, @JRsBBQ, regarding Sting these days. BTW has he left TNA? I actually don't know the answer to that one but suspect that Sting is still officially with TNA. Nonetheless many fans hope that Sting is inducted in the WWE HOF in Atlanta at WM27. Theoretically, if Sting were not working for another wrestling company, it would be a splendid idea. It still might be but that's not for me to speculate on. Sting was the first and only WCW star that Turner's people 'made' in Atlanta that never wrestled for WWE as best that I recall.
I'd love to help produce a definitive Sting DVD some day as I was around him when he first started in the biz and teamed with the Ultimate Warrior, then known as Rock, in the UWF as the tag team duo known as the Bladerunners. The Bladerunners were going to be positioned as UWF's answer to the Road Warriors.
I keep reading all these 'hot rumors' as to who 'might' be inducted in Atlanta in April and the list keeps getting longer and more of a head scratcher the more folks speculate. I hope that the class does have a WCW/Atlanta feel but the class will likely be 6-8 inductions tops. Plus, WWE will want to not over do posthumous inductions if at all possible.
The WWE HOF Induction Ceremony is one of my favorite events of the year. The DVD of the event is one of my faves too because so much is cut out of the TV broadcast which, for a fan like me, could easily be a two hour show.
Tonight on WWE On Demand I enjoyed watching Dory Funk, Jr. win his first NWA Title at age 27 against Gene Kiniski in Tampa with Gordon Solie narrating some classic 'film' of a major moment in NWA history. That 10 minute piece of business is airing now. I'm a big fan of WWE On Demand. Big, Jerry, really big!
Had dinner this week at Ray's BBQ in Norman with former Sooner legend and the subject of the recent ESPN 30 for 30, Marcus Dupree. Marcus, who is moving back to Oklahoma soon, and I discussed several potential opportunities that may be available to him. Marcus is a huge wrestling fan, loved Mid South back in the day....BTW who was that handsome, young play by play dude back in the day...and is planning on actually wrestling on a benefit show in his home town of Philadelphia, Mississippi on Saturday February 19 as it is now scheduled. Marcus and I spoke some about his love of the wrestling biz but much more about projects that would be much more impactful coming off the heels of the critically acclaimed documentary that chronicled the life and struggling times of potentially the greatest running back that never became a true star. Marcus Dupree was the greatest, college freshman running back that I ever saw play and that includes Herschel Walker and Bo Jackson...not to mention a kid by the name of Adrian Peterson.
Stay tuned as something interesting may be in the works down the proverbial road involving #22 Marcus Dupree.
Love to receive feedback from those of you that use our products and how you use them. We're getting some great emails and Tweets from those of you who may have missed your opportunities to be chefs because of your creativity. It's also cool for people to pick out a recipe in our JR's Cookbook, a book that we personally autograph, and then tell us how they came out.
Sorry to hear of Paul Orndorff was recently diagnosed with having cancer. PO is a tough man, I know this without hype or speculation, and saw him in action as a young dude being mentored by Cowboy Bill Watts in Mid South Wrestling. Paul was a former running back for the University of Tampa and played with former NFL star Freddie Solomon. Our prayers are with PO and I have complete faith that Mr. Wonderful will be physically wonderful at the end of the day. Paul was a helluva hand in his day who was never afraid of 'heat' when he was one of the most hated villains in the business. Trust me, all wrestling villains could not honestly say that they had absolutely no fear of intense, fan angst but Mr. Wonderful could.
Smart move by the Tennessee Titians to release QB Vince Young and his seemingly selfish attitude that was always about Vince. My old theory was if you can't solve a problem it must be eliminated and that goes for any one on a wrestling roster and especially when business isn't red hot. The Titans were not red hot this past season. Good luck Mr. Young on your future endeavors but it's obvious that potential star QB's won't be out of work long term.
Perhaps Young could join the 'cast' of Storage Wars. When will the physicality be included in an episode of the new, A&E reality show? What a concept for a reality show.
Emailer...I have no plans at this time to begin a podcast. Honestly don't know how to pull it off technically. If I ever do a podcast, it will be of the more succinct variety that some are already doing and NOT of the 2+ hour variety that some do. More power to 'em but that just destroys my attention span and it's hard for me to invest that much time in a 2+ hour newscast/editorial presentation.
Who will be WWE MVP by year's end. If he stays healthy an argument could be made, at least in my point of view, that it might be CM Punk. Punk knows how to be physical and punishing in logical, easy to follow methods plus the guy can talk. Those traits work for me. Plus he won't miss work, moan about non, major injuries and seems to never burn out.
Emailer...best Royal Rumble match ever? Impossible for one person to answer that one conclusively.
The 1992 Rumble was really special because the winner actually won the WWE Title and that went to Ric Flair with Monsoon and Heenan at their best.
I can remember Rumble moments where specific talent got on a roll and had a flurry of action and eliminated multiple people in rapid fire, conclusive fashion. Kevin Nash did it. Kane did it. The Undertaker has done it multiple times to name a few. Several men have had head turning moments in the Rumble Match that provided them much needed momentum heading into Wrestlemania.
There's only one, 3 time winner...Stone Cold. Only two men have won Rumbles in back to back years, HBK and Austin....a pair of Texans.
The last time the Rumble was in Boston, this years site, Brock Lesnar won it all which was 2003. My how times have changed regarding Lesnar. BTW his book, co-written with Paul Heyman will be out in a few week. I'd love to get an advance copy so I can review it for you. I'm very anxious to read Brock's story of which I had a significant role. I hope I'm not hammered by him too badly but Brock assaulting one with the written word is infinitely healthier than a physical assault from one of the baddest men on Earth.
Co-winners were declared in 1994 when Bret Hart and Lex Luger shared the distinction of 'winning' the Rumble match. Are we due, possibly, for another controversial conclusion for the 2011 Royal Rumble match?
I've always thought that WWE could get mileage out of assigning Rumble Match numbers via competition like who gets the coveted #30 spot or even the #27 spot which, I think, is the # that most people have won the Rumble match after drawing it. Competing to not be anointed as the #1 entrant creates a great sense of urgency.
As a broadcaster, the Rumble match is the most challenging to call and the one thing that could theoretically make it a train wreck is to have a three man crew all jacked up on Diet Mountain Dew talking so much as if they forgot it was TV and not radio.
Emailer...Have I called my last event in any thing? I hope not and that's not my plan but my broadcasting work may not include regular WWE work but something outside the genre. As many know my absolute 'dream job' at this time would be the radio voice of the Oklahoma Sooner football team but as I have been honest and upfront when addressing this matter I feel that I will be a long shot at best. I'm not retreating but when on is branded so vividly as the 'wrestling guy' it might work against me. Or perhaps not. Time will certainly tell. Nonetheless that gig would be a dream come true. I know that my Dad and my grandpa who used to gather me around the radio when I was a kid would be listening in heaven without question. It's as if I have been preparing my entire broadcasting life for this one job.
Emailer...Can Daniel Bryan win the WWE Title? Of course he CAN win it but the question should be will he win it? I don't think that many experts thought Eddie Guerrero would take the top prize in WWE because of a perceived lack of physical size and other issues but Eddie succeeded. IMO physical size isn't the key trait to be WWE Champion. It's all about the individual having a superior skill set, the person's character, appeal to the masses and reliability....or so I feel.
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