Post by michaelporter on Sept 6, 2005 0:03:08 GMT -5
Michael Porter's WrestleBeat (9-5-05)
Hey there again, Wrestling Fans! And welcome to another edition of WrestleBeat. I've got a lot of news and notes from the World of Professional Wrestling. So, let's get right to business.
I'm a little later than I had planned on getting WrestleBeat up this weekend, because I just returned from a VERY enjoyable trip to Reno, Nevada with my ex-roommate, Cindy! We had a GREAT time...away from everything and all the stresses of our "normal" every day lives. Neither of us won big at the casinos, but we enjoyed our time together...the first time we've had just to ourselves in quite some time!
Anyway...as I post this here today, I anxiously await tomorrow, Tuesday September 6th. I go in for my appointment with Dr. Nicholas Capos-Cardiologist, for a series of tests to determine the severity of the blockage in the left side of my heart. I have been extremely anxious over the last three weeks since finding out about the blockage. And once again, I would like to THANK YOU...with all my heart, for the dozens of e-mails and snail-mails that I have received from all around the world, wishing me well! Just the other day, I received another one from Puerto Rico.
Anyway, depending on the results of tomorrow's findings, I may have to TEMPORARILY suspend posting my WrestleBeat columns. But...be assured, I WILL be back...sooner or later (hopefully sooner) with more news and notes from the World of Professional Wrestling! THANK YOU for your indulgence AND your continued support...as well as the prayers and well wishes that you have sent my way. You will NEVER know how much they mean to me!
Alright...let's go...
First up...I returned to Country 103.1 KKCY in the Marysville/Yuba City, CA. areas for another edition of Michael Porter's WrestleShoot on the Dave Logasa in the Morning show.
I opened up with a shout-out to my old friend, The Mad Hawaiian Kimo Kimeyha who weighs in at around 350 lbs., stating that Kimo thinks that I deserve a little more than 5 minutes of air-time for my reports, and if that didn't happen, he was going to KKCY and give Dave's side-kick Briggs Moor The Hawaiian Splash!
I then turn to the business of Wrestling News reporting.
First up, I reported that WWE has had preliminary discussions with Caesar's Palace representatives in Las Vegas about hosting another WrestleMania in the future. WWF held WrestleMania IX in 1993 at the same outdoor facility at Caesar's.
I reoprted that Hardcore Legend and three-time WWE Champion Mick Foley says he’s coming back to WWE television. Foley also stated that he would give no details until the deal was finalizes.
Also Hulk Hogan has said that he has four bulging discs in his lower back that has been causing him problems.
I also discissed that the late Terry "Bam Bam" Gordy's son, Ray has been signed to a WWE deal and will report to Deep South Wrestling for more grooming.
And finally, I reported that WWE.com had reported the passing of Ed "Sailor" White who was a former WWF Tag Team Champion, wrestling under the name of Moondog King, teaming with Moondog Rex as the Original Moondogs, who defeated Tony Garea and Rick Martel to win the Titles.
And that was it for this week's my WrestleShoot Report.
I'll be back again next Thursday morning between 8:10 and 8:15am with Dave Logasa in the Morning on Country 103.1 KKCY Marysville/Yuba City, CA.
For more on KKCY go to www.kkcy.com .
I received this from a NEW Pro Wrestling Group out here on the West Coast called Adrenaline Unleashed. Check out this information:
The newest surge in sports entertainment is slamming into the Southland, Friday, September 30 at the Industry Hills Expo Center GRAND ARENA.
Come down and witness live; pulse pounding, jaw jacking, high flying, back breaking action as Monster Energy, Jack Radio, and Wahoo’s debut the new edge in sports wrestling entertainment; Adrenaline Unleashed.
Adrenaline Unleashed brings a high end production, top rate West Coast based roster of talent (TV recognized included), inside of a new platform to do battle in for your entertainment. Come down and be a part of the experience exclusive to the Internet wrestling news, media and chat shows.
We are offering three (3) ringside tables to the first Wrestling news and media shows to contact us. The first ones to reply will be able to film and blog the event LIVE to their fanbase as they see fit. These sites will also be able to a banner of their site/logo to attach to their table for display. Free promotional exposure at a new entertainment event!
Stay tune for more info.
www.Adrenaline-Unleashed.com .
And now...on to the national news:
I received this e-mail from Jeffery T. Capo in regards to Ellie Braddy (former NWA Virginia Woman's Champion, Kameo):
"(Chesterfield, Va)
The following was posted on the NWA Virginia message board by NWA Superstar Sean Lei. I believe it speaks for itself.
"I am here begging everyone for your help. Ellie[former NWA Virginia Women's Champion Kameo] is back in the hospital after having 2 seizures. The simple truth of the matter is
she is not allowed to work and cannot afford her medicine as she is not elligible for full medicaid.
I myself have written The Montel Williams Show about Ellie and I beg that all my brothers, friends, fans and people who can't stand my guts please do the same. I have copied the link for you to go straight to the part you need to post at.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE help!
Yours sincerely,
Sean Lei"
Ellie/Kameo has entertained wrestling fans in Virginia and North Carolina before she was struck down by Multiple Sclerosis. It is now time for wrestling fans to rally to her aid.
Please follow the link and make your voice heard. Make it heard for Ellie/Kameo.
www.montelshow.com/show/tell.htm
If anyone knows of any other ways to help Ellie/Kameo, please visit the NWA Virginia Message board and leave any and all information. You can also email NWA Virginia at siwrcw03@comcast.net and we will make sure that the information gets to Sean Lei and Ellie/Kameo.
We thank you in advance for your help in Ellie/Kameo's hour of need.
NWA Virginia
Thats www.montelshow.com/show/tell.htm ."
Then, Jeffery forwarded this follow-up e-mail to me from Devin Sturgis. Devin is a friend of Ellie's.:
"I hope that I'm not the only person writing you about this. But this is in regards to my friend Ellie Braddy. I believe her fiancee wrote in also.
Ellie Braddy used to be a professional wrestler until she had her first MS attack and had paralysis in half her body.
To be frank, the government either messed up her paperwork or something is more messed up and she does not qualify for full medical benefits. They claim its because she makes too much money, but her money is 100% from disability as she is not allowed to work. She also can only get a very small amount in food stamps, certainly not enough
to survive.
She is unable to pay to live (rent, food, etc) and pay for her medications, which as you know cost more than $1000/month.
She's already had to give up her dreams over this and she just had 2 more seizures and is back in the hospital. I'm afraid that without medication, she may give up more than her dreams. She's in her mid/early 20s and things like this just are not fair. She's a very good hearted person.
Her fiancee is also a pro wrestler trying to make it to the big time (to WWE). He has been strong trying to help her and I'm concerned for him as well as the depression of trying to help her but not being able to get what she needs is weighing on him heavily.
They are both proud people and don't like handouts. They just want a chance to let her live a fairly normal life so they can survive and she can make a living on her own.
Please, if there is anything you can do to help her...
www.angelfire.com/wrestling3/kameo0/
People can still donate here!
Thank you for your time.
Devin Sturgis"
I know that ALL of my WrestleBeat readers will send out their hopes and prayers for BOTH Ellie amd Sean!
Tim Brown reports the following:
All of Christian’s merchandise has been pulled from the shelves due to some sort of legal issue. We hope for more details on this soon.
The final touches are being put on the Bret Hart DVD as of press time. Bret Hart has been going back and forth to Stamford, CT. working on the DVD for the past week. Hart is said to be very happy with how the DVD turned out.
Just a reminder that WrestleMania tickets will be going on sale on October 15.
Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter
The Big Show has asked WWE for some time off. He has wanted some for a while now to fully heal his injuries, but felt that leaving would run the Smackdown roster too thin. Now that he’s on RAW, he feels that the roster there can afford to give him some time off for a while.
The Big Show is also said to be unhappy with the abrupt dropping of his planned program with Chris Masters. No reason has been given for dropping that angle.
Ryan Clark reports these stories:
Partial Source: PWTorch.com
Contrary to rumors, there are no plans for Undertaker to retire after his feud with Randy Orton. While a retirement could very well come in the next few years, Taker has not yet expressed that he’s willing to give up on working for WWE. And, if he did, it would certainly not be the result of putting over Randy Orton.
X-Pac’s scheduled meeting with WWE has become a big discussion topic in wrestling circles. As of this past weekend, the belief was that he had come to terms with TNA and merely lacked the formality of a written contract. TNA has long been aware that X-Pac’s friendships in WWE would pull him in that direction should a bidding war break out, but there is obviously faith that he’ll greatly consider remaining in TNA (this would of course be assuming that WWE is interested in re-signing X-Pac; something that is hardly confirmed).
Matt Hardy and Lita were spotted at the Bahama Breeze on International Drive in Orlando on 8/28, after the house show in town, eating together. There have been similar sightings in recent weeks and we'll keep you posted.
WWE is scheduled to head to the Gulf Coast next month. We're guessing that the tour will have to be rebooked due to Hurricane Katrina which ripped everything up in it's path. I just want to take this time to personally wish all of you in that part of the country the best of luck. Hopefully everyone's family and friends made it through safe. It's truly a sad thing.
Speaking of Hurricane Katrina, WrestlingObserver.com had this: WWE.com ran a story about John Heidenreich not being able to get in contact with his father, who lives in New Orleans, as well as talk about growing up in that city. It's really unfathomable the damage the storm did and for those of you in the area or have loved ones in the area, our hearts really go out to you.
John Madden, who has been a big wrestling fan for decades, on Monday Night Football this week started talking about George Steele's green tongue and eating turnbuckles (thanks to Adam Glenn)
Wrestle Reunion has a show on 9/10 in Davie, FL at the Rodeo Arena with the former Dudleys vs. the Midnight Express, Dusty Rhodes vs. Terry Funk with Mick Foley as referee, Jake Roberts vs. Antonio Banks, Blue Meanie vs. Kamala, Mike Graham vs. Kevin Sullivan in a battle of Florida tag team champion when Florida was still owned by Spain, Greg Valentine vs. Tito Santana, Tom Prichard vs. Tully Blanchard managed by J.J. Dillon, Ron Bass vs. Bugsy McGraw and more
As noted a few days ago, WWE.com has posted an update on Hardy and Edge from Monday night noting that both were 'released from the hospital'.
Partial Source: PWInsider.com
There are currently ad's airing all over the place for RAW's debut on the USA network. Last night during 'Tommy Goes To College' and 'The Tonight Show' on NBC, ad's aired with John Cena, Carlito, Triple H, and others. I have also heard of the same advertisement airing on BRAVO and the USA network. I'm sure you'll see it airing on other stations in the near future as well as WWE is doing a huge media push for their return to the network. NBC advertising in the primetime slot is just huge for WWE.
Just interesting to note that WWE RAW is in Nashville, TN next week which of course is the home base of TNA. Many people may remember when WWE came to Orlando, FL prior to the Impact! tapings to record a commercial and the TNA staff showed up with balloons and food. There will no doubt be TNA staff outside the area passing out flyers promoting their product next week.
Mick Foley did an autograph signing/book read at the Lincoln Center Barnes & Noble in Manhattan Tuesday. There was a WWE camera crew in attendance so expect to see footage on WWE.com on RAW shortly.
WWE.com has posted a fairly lengthy interview with the newly signed Dusty Rhodes. Rhodes will assume a role on the creative team for WWE SmackDown.
Speaking about the offer, Rhodes said, "I think it's just opportunity to continue what I've really enjoyed doing since 1974, and that's create exciting scenarios. Being able to work with a group of young kids and some veterans to give my opinion on some stuff and my ideas, I think that is exciting too."
Rhodes specifically plans to make SmackDown! a spicier, more electrifying show. "[SmackDown!]'s got great athletes and they've got great action, they've done some tremendous stuff, but I want it to knock you off the couch when it opens up," Rhodes said.
The industry veteran, who is heavily anticipating working under Stephanie McMahon, still hopes to have a final match with Ric Flair.
And the following is a SPECIAL story and link provived by Ryan Clark:
The Red Cross has set up a special link for donations to Hurricane Relief to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Visit www.redcross.org to donate.
Honestly folks if you've got an extra dollar or two to spare please do so. It's absolutely heartbreaking to see the images on the television screen. These people really do need help and although some wrestling fans may not always be the classiest/generous people they do stick together as a family and it's times like this that these people need us.
Speaking of Mick Foley...this is from WWE.com:
Hardcore legend and three-time WWE Champion Mick Foley says he’s coming back to WWE television.
When reached Wednesday via cell phone between stops on his book tour, Foley confirmed that he has reached a deal in principle with WWE. He chose not to elaborate further, citing that he’d prefer to save the details until after the “formal arrangement” has been finalized.
“We have an agreement,” Foley said. “The papers are just being drawn up. We should be good on it.”
Foley first appeared in WWE in 1996. Thereafter, he furthered his reputation for putting his body on the line in many of WWE’s most memorable matches.
Since retiring from the full-time roster in 2000, Foley has become a bestselling author. He is currently amid an extensive book tour for his latest novel, “Scooter.”
This comes from Christopher Murray
A little bit of breaking news from the Between The Ropes radio show. Mick Foley revealed that he was extremely close to joining TNA Wrestling. A deal had been on the table for four months to join TNA in a figurehead role along with a couple of wrestling matches against top TNA stars. After speaking with Vince McMahon, he opted to sign a contract with WWE, although he did not get any more money from WWE (hence, not using TNA to get a better deal from WWE). Foley said he enjoyed the TNA product and knew many of the guys in the company. He hoped the Spike TV show would be a success to provide competition to WWE. His new contract with WWE will include some wrestling matches, although not many. In fact, he noted that in a forthcoming interview that will air on ESPN Cold Pizza (taped previously, but has not aired due to hurricane coverage), he was asked who he hoped to wrestle in the near future and replied with Samoa Joe.
Here is a Press Release from WWWA as reported on 1Wrestling.com:
"Columbus, Ohio - The World Wide Wrestling Alliance (WWWA, 3WA) is proud to announce the addition of wrestling industry legend Bill Apter as Commissioner of 3WA. Bill Apter and 3WA's Chief Executive Officer David Nelson have been involved in a series of contractual meetings for the past 2 months with the purpose of negotiating Mr. Apter's possible appointment as Commissioner The agreement was finally reached today at Mr. Apter's office near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where Mr. Nelson personally met with him and papers were signed to seal the agreed upon deal making Mr. Apter Commissioner.
Mr. Nelson returned home to Columbus,Ohio this afternoon with contract in hand and told 3WA Corporate members, "this is one of the biggest announcements the wrestling world has seen in recent memory! Bringing Bill onboard as Commissioner for the 3WA is a dream come true for us as well as the fans!"
Bill Apter is one of the most well known journalists and photographers in the wrestling industry. He has been a wrestling fan since he was 5 years old. He went into broadcasting after high school and began his long and illustrious career in the industry soon after graduation. He started out by attending a wrestling event and interviewed some wrestlers and took a few photographs. He sent the materials to the publisher of a magazine called Wrestling Revue, where his writing and photos were first published. Then he met Stanley Weston, the publisher of The Wrestler and Inside Wrestling, and the rest is history.
Early in his career, Bill's face became known to the wrestling public through the magazines he worked for. Photos of him, along with his interviews, ran on a regular basis. He quickly became accepted by the fans and the wrestlers as part of the business. Bill was part of many other milestones in the sport of wrestling --not only with the magazines. For example in 1985 he Co-hosted, along with the "Dean of Wrestling Broadcasters" Gordon Solie, wrestling's very first commercial video titled "Lords of the Ring."
He also hosted a weekly segment on the NWA Jim Crockett promotion show on the Ted Turner network WTBS. Fans from all over the world got to know him because of those programs as well as the syndicated "Pro Wrestling This Week" where he hosted a segment of the weekly TV news-magazine anchored by Joe Pedicino. In another legendary facet of his career, Mr. Apter introduced Jerry Lawler to comedian Andy Kaufman and helped set up that famous angle that people still talk about today.
From his days at the Pro Wrestling Illustrated family of magazines, to WOW (World Of Wrestling) magazine, and Total Wrestling, Bill Apter has been a staple of our business for 36 years and is a trusted source to all of us who have followed him.
Mr. Apter continues to be involved in all levels of the industry and his tenure with 3WA will indeed be another proud step as his career continues. We are honored to have him onboard!
Visit 3WA at www.wwwawrestling.net "
CONGRATULATIONS Bill! I...as well as ANY other writer, columnnist, or photographer in this business that we ALL love, has at one time or another or MANY times, has read Bill Apter's articles, reports, stories or has seen his photographs for YEARS! I'm NOT kissing ass...just putting over an individual who has given SO much to Professional Wrestling for so long now! Mr. Apter...YOU'RE THE MAN!
Well, that does it for another edition of WrestleBeat. I'll be back next time with more news and notes from the World of Professional Wrestling.
So, until next time, KEEP BOTH FEET ON THE MAT AND YOUR PUNCHES ABOVE THE BELT! Later, Michael
(contact Michael Porter by e-mail at kmichaelporter@yahoo.com or by snail-mail at P.O. Box 5282 Marysville, CA. 95901-8521)
Hey there again, Wrestling Fans! And welcome to another edition of WrestleBeat. I've got a lot of news and notes from the World of Professional Wrestling. So, let's get right to business.
I'm a little later than I had planned on getting WrestleBeat up this weekend, because I just returned from a VERY enjoyable trip to Reno, Nevada with my ex-roommate, Cindy! We had a GREAT time...away from everything and all the stresses of our "normal" every day lives. Neither of us won big at the casinos, but we enjoyed our time together...the first time we've had just to ourselves in quite some time!
Anyway...as I post this here today, I anxiously await tomorrow, Tuesday September 6th. I go in for my appointment with Dr. Nicholas Capos-Cardiologist, for a series of tests to determine the severity of the blockage in the left side of my heart. I have been extremely anxious over the last three weeks since finding out about the blockage. And once again, I would like to THANK YOU...with all my heart, for the dozens of e-mails and snail-mails that I have received from all around the world, wishing me well! Just the other day, I received another one from Puerto Rico.
Anyway, depending on the results of tomorrow's findings, I may have to TEMPORARILY suspend posting my WrestleBeat columns. But...be assured, I WILL be back...sooner or later (hopefully sooner) with more news and notes from the World of Professional Wrestling! THANK YOU for your indulgence AND your continued support...as well as the prayers and well wishes that you have sent my way. You will NEVER know how much they mean to me!
Alright...let's go...
First up...I returned to Country 103.1 KKCY in the Marysville/Yuba City, CA. areas for another edition of Michael Porter's WrestleShoot on the Dave Logasa in the Morning show.
I opened up with a shout-out to my old friend, The Mad Hawaiian Kimo Kimeyha who weighs in at around 350 lbs., stating that Kimo thinks that I deserve a little more than 5 minutes of air-time for my reports, and if that didn't happen, he was going to KKCY and give Dave's side-kick Briggs Moor The Hawaiian Splash!
I then turn to the business of Wrestling News reporting.
First up, I reported that WWE has had preliminary discussions with Caesar's Palace representatives in Las Vegas about hosting another WrestleMania in the future. WWF held WrestleMania IX in 1993 at the same outdoor facility at Caesar's.
I reoprted that Hardcore Legend and three-time WWE Champion Mick Foley says he’s coming back to WWE television. Foley also stated that he would give no details until the deal was finalizes.
Also Hulk Hogan has said that he has four bulging discs in his lower back that has been causing him problems.
I also discissed that the late Terry "Bam Bam" Gordy's son, Ray has been signed to a WWE deal and will report to Deep South Wrestling for more grooming.
And finally, I reported that WWE.com had reported the passing of Ed "Sailor" White who was a former WWF Tag Team Champion, wrestling under the name of Moondog King, teaming with Moondog Rex as the Original Moondogs, who defeated Tony Garea and Rick Martel to win the Titles.
And that was it for this week's my WrestleShoot Report.
I'll be back again next Thursday morning between 8:10 and 8:15am with Dave Logasa in the Morning on Country 103.1 KKCY Marysville/Yuba City, CA.
For more on KKCY go to www.kkcy.com .
I received this from a NEW Pro Wrestling Group out here on the West Coast called Adrenaline Unleashed. Check out this information:
The newest surge in sports entertainment is slamming into the Southland, Friday, September 30 at the Industry Hills Expo Center GRAND ARENA.
Come down and witness live; pulse pounding, jaw jacking, high flying, back breaking action as Monster Energy, Jack Radio, and Wahoo’s debut the new edge in sports wrestling entertainment; Adrenaline Unleashed.
Adrenaline Unleashed brings a high end production, top rate West Coast based roster of talent (TV recognized included), inside of a new platform to do battle in for your entertainment. Come down and be a part of the experience exclusive to the Internet wrestling news, media and chat shows.
We are offering three (3) ringside tables to the first Wrestling news and media shows to contact us. The first ones to reply will be able to film and blog the event LIVE to their fanbase as they see fit. These sites will also be able to a banner of their site/logo to attach to their table for display. Free promotional exposure at a new entertainment event!
Stay tune for more info.
www.Adrenaline-Unleashed.com .
And now...on to the national news:
I received this e-mail from Jeffery T. Capo in regards to Ellie Braddy (former NWA Virginia Woman's Champion, Kameo):
"(Chesterfield, Va)
The following was posted on the NWA Virginia message board by NWA Superstar Sean Lei. I believe it speaks for itself.
"I am here begging everyone for your help. Ellie[former NWA Virginia Women's Champion Kameo] is back in the hospital after having 2 seizures. The simple truth of the matter is
she is not allowed to work and cannot afford her medicine as she is not elligible for full medicaid.
I myself have written The Montel Williams Show about Ellie and I beg that all my brothers, friends, fans and people who can't stand my guts please do the same. I have copied the link for you to go straight to the part you need to post at.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE help!
Yours sincerely,
Sean Lei"
Ellie/Kameo has entertained wrestling fans in Virginia and North Carolina before she was struck down by Multiple Sclerosis. It is now time for wrestling fans to rally to her aid.
Please follow the link and make your voice heard. Make it heard for Ellie/Kameo.
www.montelshow.com/show/tell.htm
If anyone knows of any other ways to help Ellie/Kameo, please visit the NWA Virginia Message board and leave any and all information. You can also email NWA Virginia at siwrcw03@comcast.net and we will make sure that the information gets to Sean Lei and Ellie/Kameo.
We thank you in advance for your help in Ellie/Kameo's hour of need.
NWA Virginia
Thats www.montelshow.com/show/tell.htm ."
Then, Jeffery forwarded this follow-up e-mail to me from Devin Sturgis. Devin is a friend of Ellie's.:
"I hope that I'm not the only person writing you about this. But this is in regards to my friend Ellie Braddy. I believe her fiancee wrote in also.
Ellie Braddy used to be a professional wrestler until she had her first MS attack and had paralysis in half her body.
To be frank, the government either messed up her paperwork or something is more messed up and she does not qualify for full medical benefits. They claim its because she makes too much money, but her money is 100% from disability as she is not allowed to work. She also can only get a very small amount in food stamps, certainly not enough
to survive.
She is unable to pay to live (rent, food, etc) and pay for her medications, which as you know cost more than $1000/month.
She's already had to give up her dreams over this and she just had 2 more seizures and is back in the hospital. I'm afraid that without medication, she may give up more than her dreams. She's in her mid/early 20s and things like this just are not fair. She's a very good hearted person.
Her fiancee is also a pro wrestler trying to make it to the big time (to WWE). He has been strong trying to help her and I'm concerned for him as well as the depression of trying to help her but not being able to get what she needs is weighing on him heavily.
They are both proud people and don't like handouts. They just want a chance to let her live a fairly normal life so they can survive and she can make a living on her own.
Please, if there is anything you can do to help her...
www.angelfire.com/wrestling3/kameo0/
People can still donate here!
Thank you for your time.
Devin Sturgis"
I know that ALL of my WrestleBeat readers will send out their hopes and prayers for BOTH Ellie amd Sean!
Tim Brown reports the following:
All of Christian’s merchandise has been pulled from the shelves due to some sort of legal issue. We hope for more details on this soon.
The final touches are being put on the Bret Hart DVD as of press time. Bret Hart has been going back and forth to Stamford, CT. working on the DVD for the past week. Hart is said to be very happy with how the DVD turned out.
Just a reminder that WrestleMania tickets will be going on sale on October 15.
Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter
The Big Show has asked WWE for some time off. He has wanted some for a while now to fully heal his injuries, but felt that leaving would run the Smackdown roster too thin. Now that he’s on RAW, he feels that the roster there can afford to give him some time off for a while.
The Big Show is also said to be unhappy with the abrupt dropping of his planned program with Chris Masters. No reason has been given for dropping that angle.
Ryan Clark reports these stories:
Partial Source: PWTorch.com
Contrary to rumors, there are no plans for Undertaker to retire after his feud with Randy Orton. While a retirement could very well come in the next few years, Taker has not yet expressed that he’s willing to give up on working for WWE. And, if he did, it would certainly not be the result of putting over Randy Orton.
X-Pac’s scheduled meeting with WWE has become a big discussion topic in wrestling circles. As of this past weekend, the belief was that he had come to terms with TNA and merely lacked the formality of a written contract. TNA has long been aware that X-Pac’s friendships in WWE would pull him in that direction should a bidding war break out, but there is obviously faith that he’ll greatly consider remaining in TNA (this would of course be assuming that WWE is interested in re-signing X-Pac; something that is hardly confirmed).
Matt Hardy and Lita were spotted at the Bahama Breeze on International Drive in Orlando on 8/28, after the house show in town, eating together. There have been similar sightings in recent weeks and we'll keep you posted.
WWE is scheduled to head to the Gulf Coast next month. We're guessing that the tour will have to be rebooked due to Hurricane Katrina which ripped everything up in it's path. I just want to take this time to personally wish all of you in that part of the country the best of luck. Hopefully everyone's family and friends made it through safe. It's truly a sad thing.
Speaking of Hurricane Katrina, WrestlingObserver.com had this: WWE.com ran a story about John Heidenreich not being able to get in contact with his father, who lives in New Orleans, as well as talk about growing up in that city. It's really unfathomable the damage the storm did and for those of you in the area or have loved ones in the area, our hearts really go out to you.
John Madden, who has been a big wrestling fan for decades, on Monday Night Football this week started talking about George Steele's green tongue and eating turnbuckles (thanks to Adam Glenn)
Wrestle Reunion has a show on 9/10 in Davie, FL at the Rodeo Arena with the former Dudleys vs. the Midnight Express, Dusty Rhodes vs. Terry Funk with Mick Foley as referee, Jake Roberts vs. Antonio Banks, Blue Meanie vs. Kamala, Mike Graham vs. Kevin Sullivan in a battle of Florida tag team champion when Florida was still owned by Spain, Greg Valentine vs. Tito Santana, Tom Prichard vs. Tully Blanchard managed by J.J. Dillon, Ron Bass vs. Bugsy McGraw and more
As noted a few days ago, WWE.com has posted an update on Hardy and Edge from Monday night noting that both were 'released from the hospital'.
Partial Source: PWInsider.com
There are currently ad's airing all over the place for RAW's debut on the USA network. Last night during 'Tommy Goes To College' and 'The Tonight Show' on NBC, ad's aired with John Cena, Carlito, Triple H, and others. I have also heard of the same advertisement airing on BRAVO and the USA network. I'm sure you'll see it airing on other stations in the near future as well as WWE is doing a huge media push for their return to the network. NBC advertising in the primetime slot is just huge for WWE.
Just interesting to note that WWE RAW is in Nashville, TN next week which of course is the home base of TNA. Many people may remember when WWE came to Orlando, FL prior to the Impact! tapings to record a commercial and the TNA staff showed up with balloons and food. There will no doubt be TNA staff outside the area passing out flyers promoting their product next week.
Mick Foley did an autograph signing/book read at the Lincoln Center Barnes & Noble in Manhattan Tuesday. There was a WWE camera crew in attendance so expect to see footage on WWE.com on RAW shortly.
WWE.com has posted a fairly lengthy interview with the newly signed Dusty Rhodes. Rhodes will assume a role on the creative team for WWE SmackDown.
Speaking about the offer, Rhodes said, "I think it's just opportunity to continue what I've really enjoyed doing since 1974, and that's create exciting scenarios. Being able to work with a group of young kids and some veterans to give my opinion on some stuff and my ideas, I think that is exciting too."
Rhodes specifically plans to make SmackDown! a spicier, more electrifying show. "[SmackDown!]'s got great athletes and they've got great action, they've done some tremendous stuff, but I want it to knock you off the couch when it opens up," Rhodes said.
The industry veteran, who is heavily anticipating working under Stephanie McMahon, still hopes to have a final match with Ric Flair.
And the following is a SPECIAL story and link provived by Ryan Clark:
The Red Cross has set up a special link for donations to Hurricane Relief to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Visit www.redcross.org to donate.
Honestly folks if you've got an extra dollar or two to spare please do so. It's absolutely heartbreaking to see the images on the television screen. These people really do need help and although some wrestling fans may not always be the classiest/generous people they do stick together as a family and it's times like this that these people need us.
Speaking of Mick Foley...this is from WWE.com:
Hardcore legend and three-time WWE Champion Mick Foley says he’s coming back to WWE television.
When reached Wednesday via cell phone between stops on his book tour, Foley confirmed that he has reached a deal in principle with WWE. He chose not to elaborate further, citing that he’d prefer to save the details until after the “formal arrangement” has been finalized.
“We have an agreement,” Foley said. “The papers are just being drawn up. We should be good on it.”
Foley first appeared in WWE in 1996. Thereafter, he furthered his reputation for putting his body on the line in many of WWE’s most memorable matches.
Since retiring from the full-time roster in 2000, Foley has become a bestselling author. He is currently amid an extensive book tour for his latest novel, “Scooter.”
This comes from Christopher Murray
A little bit of breaking news from the Between The Ropes radio show. Mick Foley revealed that he was extremely close to joining TNA Wrestling. A deal had been on the table for four months to join TNA in a figurehead role along with a couple of wrestling matches against top TNA stars. After speaking with Vince McMahon, he opted to sign a contract with WWE, although he did not get any more money from WWE (hence, not using TNA to get a better deal from WWE). Foley said he enjoyed the TNA product and knew many of the guys in the company. He hoped the Spike TV show would be a success to provide competition to WWE. His new contract with WWE will include some wrestling matches, although not many. In fact, he noted that in a forthcoming interview that will air on ESPN Cold Pizza (taped previously, but has not aired due to hurricane coverage), he was asked who he hoped to wrestle in the near future and replied with Samoa Joe.
Here is a Press Release from WWWA as reported on 1Wrestling.com:
"Columbus, Ohio - The World Wide Wrestling Alliance (WWWA, 3WA) is proud to announce the addition of wrestling industry legend Bill Apter as Commissioner of 3WA. Bill Apter and 3WA's Chief Executive Officer David Nelson have been involved in a series of contractual meetings for the past 2 months with the purpose of negotiating Mr. Apter's possible appointment as Commissioner The agreement was finally reached today at Mr. Apter's office near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where Mr. Nelson personally met with him and papers were signed to seal the agreed upon deal making Mr. Apter Commissioner.
Mr. Nelson returned home to Columbus,Ohio this afternoon with contract in hand and told 3WA Corporate members, "this is one of the biggest announcements the wrestling world has seen in recent memory! Bringing Bill onboard as Commissioner for the 3WA is a dream come true for us as well as the fans!"
Bill Apter is one of the most well known journalists and photographers in the wrestling industry. He has been a wrestling fan since he was 5 years old. He went into broadcasting after high school and began his long and illustrious career in the industry soon after graduation. He started out by attending a wrestling event and interviewed some wrestlers and took a few photographs. He sent the materials to the publisher of a magazine called Wrestling Revue, where his writing and photos were first published. Then he met Stanley Weston, the publisher of The Wrestler and Inside Wrestling, and the rest is history.
Early in his career, Bill's face became known to the wrestling public through the magazines he worked for. Photos of him, along with his interviews, ran on a regular basis. He quickly became accepted by the fans and the wrestlers as part of the business. Bill was part of many other milestones in the sport of wrestling --not only with the magazines. For example in 1985 he Co-hosted, along with the "Dean of Wrestling Broadcasters" Gordon Solie, wrestling's very first commercial video titled "Lords of the Ring."
He also hosted a weekly segment on the NWA Jim Crockett promotion show on the Ted Turner network WTBS. Fans from all over the world got to know him because of those programs as well as the syndicated "Pro Wrestling This Week" where he hosted a segment of the weekly TV news-magazine anchored by Joe Pedicino. In another legendary facet of his career, Mr. Apter introduced Jerry Lawler to comedian Andy Kaufman and helped set up that famous angle that people still talk about today.
From his days at the Pro Wrestling Illustrated family of magazines, to WOW (World Of Wrestling) magazine, and Total Wrestling, Bill Apter has been a staple of our business for 36 years and is a trusted source to all of us who have followed him.
Mr. Apter continues to be involved in all levels of the industry and his tenure with 3WA will indeed be another proud step as his career continues. We are honored to have him onboard!
Visit 3WA at www.wwwawrestling.net "
CONGRATULATIONS Bill! I...as well as ANY other writer, columnnist, or photographer in this business that we ALL love, has at one time or another or MANY times, has read Bill Apter's articles, reports, stories or has seen his photographs for YEARS! I'm NOT kissing ass...just putting over an individual who has given SO much to Professional Wrestling for so long now! Mr. Apter...YOU'RE THE MAN!
Well, that does it for another edition of WrestleBeat. I'll be back next time with more news and notes from the World of Professional Wrestling.
So, until next time, KEEP BOTH FEET ON THE MAT AND YOUR PUNCHES ABOVE THE BELT! Later, Michael
(contact Michael Porter by e-mail at kmichaelporter@yahoo.com or by snail-mail at P.O. Box 5282 Marysville, CA. 95901-8521)