So we enter the final countdown for WrestleMania 29, 8 days to go. To mark the run in I am going to reveal my top 10 Mania matches, and why I enjoyed them, see if you agree. 8 - Taker Again The Undertaker vs Kane (WrestleMania 14) the build up to this match was awesome, (7 Months I believe), although the core of the story was a repeat of the Bret vs Owen angle of 4 years earlier, the quality of the writing, and the long build, making Kane look more and more like a Monster every week as he mangled the WWE roster 1 and sometimes 2 at a time, made this match impossible to miss. The match, like the previous entry, was a great big man battle with two machines working at the peak of their abilities, but also had the added angle of the great Paul Bearer outside the ring (Kane's daddy) which was pivotal to the story of the match. We also got to see the start of the Kane vs Pete Rose trilogy...
WWE list the ten most important title changes at WrestleMania:
Candid CM Punk interview:
He was asked about his chances of winning at Mania... "I mean, does anybody really think they have to break the streak? It's one of those things. The streak is this monumental thing and I think everybody has these feelings of not wanting to see it broken, so therefore it should never be broken. But once that bell rings I don't have a boss and nobody can tell me what to do. The guy who beats the streak is gonna go down as a legend. If I broke the streak, I'd be a legend. So it's up to me to do everything I can to break it." Personal Note... This is starting to worry me a little, the more honest Punk is about expecting to lose this match, the more I worry about WWE doing the opposite... It Can't happen, surely... :{ He went on to name his dream WrestleMania opponent, changing from the usual answer of Stone Cold Steve Austin, to pick John Cena.
Ex WWE man retires:
Charlie Haas has announced today that he will retire effective immediately... He Tweeted the news... ''Officially retired. No match against @Sheltyb803 (Shelton Benjamin) nxt week NYC. Time to be a full time dad and husband. I've turned my spandex in for scrubs'' Later adding a thank you to his fans... ''Thanks to all the fans throughout the years. I love you all. Stay safe and God bless. WGTT will always be a top Tag Team, forever.''
Flair family thank fans:
Charlotte Flair has tweeted thanks for the messages of condolence and support following the death of her youngest Brother Reid... "Thank you everyone for your kind words. Reider, you'll always be my heart & soul champ..." WWE are also paying their own tribute, flying flags at half mast at WWE HQ this weekend in his honour.
NXT:
WWE have called on the developmental roster to turn it up, announcing two stars will be promoted to the main roster after WrestleMania. Also there is no signs, right now at least of WWE having a post Mania roster clear out, this will be the second year in a row they have not dropped multiple stars following the big show.
TNA:
The new One Night Only PPV format debuts next Friday April 5. They have released this ad to promote the event, the first is the X-Division themed show entitled ''X-Travaganza''.
Hulk Hogan has praised the TNA writing team for their output in recent weeks. This may have been a bit of a dig at the WWE issues in their creative department IDK...
So we enter the final countdown for WrestleMania 29, 9 days to go. To mark the run in I am going to reveal my top 10 Mania matches, and why I enjoyed them, see if you agree. 9 - My Number 9 WrestleMania match is The Undertaker vs Diesel from WrestleMania 12, I think it is one of the best big man battles in WWE history, I went in to the match not wanting to like it because of the backstage nonsense going on at the time with Nash et al, but for what turned out to be his last WrestleMania match (For a long time at least) Nash went out on a high, and Taker as always shone at Mania, protecting the streak against a major threat before people started to talk about the streak. Much better than the Iron man that followed IMO...
Was Kane surprised that The Undertaker came back?:
"Not really. He's still got some gas left in the tank. If you're going to be on the show, this is the show to be on, right? And of course, he's a guy who really loves the business and loves to be out there. So, that didn't surprise me at all, no." He also talked about the Part Time wrestlers, and was asked if the jealousy of the active talent is understandable... "I don't think so, because what we try to do is parlay that into better business all around. When the Rock comes back, that takes to a completely different level. The interest he generates is mainstream. It's beneficial, more so than anyone else can do, frankly. Any petty jealousies that there might be need to be set aside, because we all benefit. It's like when people say I don't like so and so because they're in the top spot, and I'm like well I do like them because I get to work with them and make more money. That's how I look at it, and I think everybody does. We all benefit from those guys, and the excitement and tension they generate."
Dolph hits out:
Dolph Ziggler has offered a very different view to part time stars at Mania... "It really p*sses me off," Ziggler noted. "But, it also is good business. Every year a part timer comes back, but there's a reason that they're back. Whether it's the fans want to see them, if they're a draw, if they're a movie star, there's a reason that they're back. They're not back just to do it. There's business to be had. And it p*sses me off and it motivates me a hundred percent. It makes me want to be that guy that they're begging to come back. I appreciate it, it's just good business. When people come to Wrestlemania to see the Rock and the Undertaker and they leave that Wrestlemania thinking, "Wow, that Dolph Ziggler stole the show. I can't wait to tune in to 'Raw' to see what he does next." That's how I've lived my entire career."
The wrestling world responds to the loss of Reid Flair:
Starting with a 10 Bell Salute. (Video)...
WWE... "WWE is saddened to learn of the passing of Reid Flair, son of WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair. Our deepest condolences go out to the Flair family and friends." Blue Meanie... ''Oh my! Please keep Ric Flair's family in your thoughts on the loss of his son! Rest In Peace Reid Flair. Gone WAY too soon!'' Mikey Whipwreck... ''RIP Reid Flair. May you now find peace. Thoughts and prayers go out to Ric and his family.'' Lena Yada... ''Omg Sad News! My Heart Goes Out To Rick Flair And His Family. Reid Was Such A Sweet Kid. RIP Reid Flair. '' Jason Sensation... ''Condolences to @RicFlairNatrBoy & Reid Flair's family & loved ones. May the light of God bless you, heal you & be with you all at this time.'' Nikita... ''very very sorry to hear about reid flair and my deepest condolences to ric and his family. so sad.'' Jay Lethal... ''RIP Reid Flair'' Jimmy Korderas... ''Deepest condolences to the Flair family. RIP Reid!'' Dixie Carter... "Devastated to hear about the passing of Ric Flair's son, Reid. Please join all of us at TNA in praying for Ric & his family at this sad time" Rowdy Roddy Piper... "My heart is with Ric and Reid Flair today! Reid was my son too!" Sean (X-Pac) Waltman... "So very sorry to Nature Boy Ric Flair & his family. No matter what differences we ever had, my heart hurts for him so bad right now." Kurt Angle... "To Ric flair and His family, I'm So Sorry for the Loss of Reid, Ric's Son. You Were family to Me. GOD Bless You Ric! I Love U" Eric Bischoff... "Heavy heart. Our thoughts, prayers, and sympathy to Ric Flair and family at the passing of Reid Flair. Such a sad day." The Miz... "Been on a flight all day just heard about the passing of Reid. My thoughts and prayers go out to Ric Flair and his family." Jim Ross... "Words cannot express our emotions re: death today of Reid Flair the 24 year old son of Ric Flair. Condolences to the Flair family. So sad." Mick Foley... "My heart goes out to the family and friends of Reid Flair. I can't imagine the grief they are going through at this time. So young. So sad." Gregory Shane Helms... "Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Reid Flair. So young. I can't imagine what Ric is going through. The Iron Sheik "I just hear the Reid Flair Ric son die. That break my heart. God bless him and his family forever" Brian Hebner... ''So sorry to hear of Reid Flair's passing.No parent should have to deal with such a loss!My prayers will be with Ric and his family! So sad!'' Doug Williams... ''Sorry to hear about the passing of Reid Flair. RIP.'' Christopher Daniels... ''RIP Reid Flair'' Tara... "My condolences to the Flair Family. Reid was funny, talented and such a sweetheart. He will be truly missed." Bobby Roode... "Saddened to hear about the death of Reid Flair. Thoughts and prayers go out to Ric Flair and his family." Mark Jindrak... ''Sad to hear of Reid Flairs passing. My prayers and thoughts go out to my friends David Flair and Ric Flair and the whole Flair family'' Taz... "Extremely saddened by the tragic passing of Reid Flair. My deepest Condolences to the Ric & his family." Matt Hardy... "Heard about the passing of Reid Flair-it's terrible & sad. My heart goes out to his family & especially his father, Ric Flair. Damn." Road Dogg... "My deepest condolences to the Flair family! I pray for your strength at this difficult time in your lives. I pray y'all find some serenity." Honky Tonk Man... "I am very saddened to hear of the passing of Reid Flair. My thoughts are with Ric and his family during this difficult time." Howard Finkel... "My deepest condolences go out to the Flair family on their loss." Gene Okerlund... "I want to extend my sympathy to Ric Flair and his family on the death of his son today. Reid Flair was only 25. Ric we're so sorry." Michael McGillicutty... "Prayers for the Flair family today. Reid was a good man. Saddened to hear this news..." Bray Wyatt... ''God, be with the Flair family on this day of mourning. I'll always remember the good times buddy. R.I.P Reid'' Roderick Strong... ''RIP Reid flair'' Chris Masters... ''RIP Reid Flair'' Chuck Palumbo... ''Im shocked to hear of Reid Flair's passing. I remember him as a child hangin out backstage at wcw shows, he was a really good kid'' Gerald Brisco... ''Make sure to tell your kids you love them everyday RIP Reid Flair love you kid prayers to Rick and David ,Ashley and family'' Terri Runnels... ''Sending love and prayers to the family of Reid Flair. God bless Ric...I can't imagine! RIP Reid. '' Mike Mondo... ''RIP Reid Flair. I met you twice & you were always a respectful kind individual. You will be missed my friend...'' Scotty Riggs... ''Godspeed Ric Flair and his son Reid and the family today.'' Val Venis... ''Sad & shocked to hear Reid Flair has passed away at 24. My thoughts and prayers go out to Rick and his family.#RIP Reid'' Todd Grisham... ''Shocked to hear about the death of Ric Flair's 24 yr old son Reid. Hung out with him many times. Great kid. Horrible news.'' Justin Roberts... ''My condolences go out to the Flair family. I'm very sorry to hear about Reid, my thoughts are with all of you.'' Brooke Adams... "Everyone please take a moment to send out your prayers to the Flair family. RIP #REID!! God bless his family and loved ones. #PRAYERS RT" Maria Kanellis... "So sad to hear about Reid Flair. My heart goes out to his family. It's so terrible when anyone that young passes." Gail Kim... ''My condolences go out to Ric and his family RIP Reid Flair'' Big O... ''Rip Reid flair . Always a tragedy when someone so young passes, especially ones that are gifted. #RipReid'' Jonathan Coachman... '' For all of you wonderful people out there-yes it's a sad day for my friend Ric Flair.His son Reid has passed away at 24.#rip.'' Cherry... ''My deepest condolences go out to the Flair family! Reid was such a nice guy! What a shock!!! #RIPReidFlair'' Ezekiel Jackson... ''It really hurts knowing someone so young has died #RIP Reid Flair... #Godspeed to the family'' Chavo Guerrero (Jr)... ''Shocked & sadden to hear of the passing of Reid Flair. My thoughts & prayers go out to to Ric & the Flair family'' Shannon Moore... ''Sad to hear of the passing of Reid Flair. My thoughts & prayers go out to to Ric & the Flair family'' Orlando Jordan... ''Here in australia.. it literally hurt my heart 2 wakeup 2 the news of Reid passing. Condolences to the Flair'' Jimmy Wang Yang... ''Horrible news today about Reid Flair i hope the media and others understand that burying your kid has to be the hardest thing to do EVER and'' Rosa Mendes... ''Just found out about Reid Flair. My prayers go out to Ric, Ashley, the rest of his family and loved ones.'' Shad Gaspard... ''Full of life and a great person to be around, he was taken to young to f*cking soon Rest in Peace Reid Flair#YouDeservedBetter'' Ted DiBiase Sr... "Please pray for Ric Flair and his entire family at the loss of his son Reid. Very very sad." Vickie Guerrero... ''Sending my love and prayers to the family of Rick Flair....my heart is heavy...Reid you will be missed'' The Genius... ''My condolences to Reid Flair and his loved ones!'' Perry Saturn... ''All prayers out to the Flair family. RIP Reid.'' Zeb Colter... ''My condolences go out to Ric Flair and his family over the loss of Reid. Our prayers are with you today.'' Marvelous Marc Mero... ''My condolences go out to my friend Ric Flair whose 25 year old son Reid Flair (Fliehr) died yesterday. Saddened.'' Abyss... ''Thoughts and prayers are with Ric Flair and his family. God bless you and Reid.'' So Cal Val... ''So sad 2 hear about Reid. What a sweet young man. Praying 4 the family especially Mr. Flair who I love. God bless u all thru this hard time.''
Evan Bourne:
Evan Bourne has urged fans not to get carried away, following his ring return this week, saying he still has a long way to go... "Friends! Thanks for all the love. I've healed a lot, but there is still a long road ahead. Relentlessly pursuing progress..."
ECW DVD synopsis:
"Following the success of ECW Unreleased Vol 1, WWE delves even deeper into the ECW archives, delivering even more hardcore action that fans continue to demand. The voice of ECW, Joey Styles, returns to call the action as only he can for over 7 hours of previously unreleased ECW classics. From ECW stalwarts to WWE Legends' stints on the hardcore circuit, this compilation is a must have for the hardcore aficionado. Several lost battles are presented, such as... The first ECW match between Extreme Originals Tommy Dreamer and Tazz WWE Hall of Famers Cactus Jack (Mick Foley) & Terry Funk squaring off Aerial warfare between Chris Jericho and Sabu Matches for the ECW Championship, Japanese death matches and of course, Mexican lucha libre."
Tito Santana interview:
On Survivor Series 4 (1990)... "For me that was the ultimate, Hulk Hogan was number one and Ultimate Warrior was pretty close to him, Warrior was selling more merchandise than Hogan at the time and his stock was quickly rising and for me to be part of a trio along with those two, I felt I was the number three guy in the company! It was a great honour for me and it was a great feeling to be in that spot." On Vince McMahon... "First of all he is a businessman, he is a very hard worker, he deals with the stars and I believe he respects all wrestlers as long as you're the one that is making him money. He makes you feel like you are the most important person in the world but the minute your run was over he just moves on, he will say hi to you but he really didn't have the time and it's not because he is ignoring you, it's just because he has to take care of business. "I was really blessed that I was one of the guys that was making money for the WWE and it was quite an honour, I have nothing bad to say about him. I did very well and I'm really grateful that he did what he did for me and my family." On being in the first ever WrestleMania match... "It was such an honour to just be part of the beginning of something huge. I was a little disappointed because I was opening the card but before I went through the curtains Vince McMahon told me that the reason why I was there was because he needed someone to get the people off their butts, and I was going to set the tempo for the rest of the night, and that is when I realised how important the first match was. "When I retired I had been with the WWF the longest of anybody in the locker-room without being fired, some of the guys had come and gone but I had a long run with the WWF. Being part of the first nine WrestleMania's was a huge honour, a lot of the wrestlers would have given their left arm to have been in my position, I just managed to hang on because of my hard work." On Hall Of Fame... "It was a great experience that was the first year when they started having big inductions into the Hall of Fame and I was so honoured. I never realised it was going to be such a big event until I got to New York, the WWE had sent a couple of limousine's to pick my family up from Texas and when we arrived at the hotel I saw all the people that were there and I couldn't believe it. We went to the Hall of Fame induction and the crowd that was there was amazing and that is when it started to sink in what the event meant, it was such a big thing and it is such a big honour to be part of the WWE Hall of Fame."
Chris Masters interview:
On his WWE Release... "I take full responsibility for my first release. The second one was a little bit more of a shocker to me. I had fallen into the typical wrestling problem which as prescription pills. I fought that battle and haven't gone back. [At the time] I became a liability to the company and I understood them letting me go. "Even when WWE sent me to rehab, I didn't believe I had a problem...so I eventually messed up again and had a relapse. It derailed my career. I never really got the shot that I got the original time." On backstage feud with Carlito... "[Carlito and I] were a pretty good tag team. I could feed off him really well...It was a love hate relationship and it was funny. We almost got into a fight on an airplane one time and literally five minutes later we were watching a movie on a DVD player together." On His Mother... "Every second that went by felt like ten minutes...The big part of the story that everyone [exaggerates], is I didn't rip the tree from it's roots, but I did bear hug the tree down to the ground and broke it...She pops out and I've never loved my mom more than that moment."
Jerry Lawler:
A Jerry Lawler museum was opened today in Memphis.
So we enter the final countdown for WrestleMania 29, 10 days to go. To mark the run in I am going to reveal my top 10 Mania matches, and why I enjoyed them, see if you agree. 10 - Gimmick Battle Royal (WrestleMania 17). I know this match had issues, it almost got dropped off the card on the night due to time issues, meaning it was very rushed, the guys were all old and out of condition, the match had only one winner because Iron Sheik couldn't take the over the top bump, and the match was pretty much designed to laugh at the past of WWE, and how daft the characters were back in the day but I was bordering on marking out from the very start. Getting to hear Bobby Heenan on Comms at Mania again alongside Mean Gene, was awesome, and seeing the guys and characters that I grew up with at the big show one more time was the cream on top of probably the best top to bottom WrestleMania card ever IMO.
Update on Taker in the UK:
The Undertaker will only appear at the SmackDown Taping on April 23 NOT Raw the night before, so if you want to see the dead man make sure you attend the second days taping at the O2, as well as or instead of the first. Colt Cabana may also be having his last UK match soon, he has put his UK career on the line during his next visit.
WWE officially announce Bob Backlund's inductor:
They released a press statement yesterday confirming TV host Maria Menounos will have the honours, they are apparently good friends. Menounos... "It is an honor to induct my good friend Bob Backlund into the WWE Hall of Fame," said Maria Menounos. "Watching him carry the title for a since unmatched five years and then stage such an incredible comeback with a reinvented persona puts him in a class all his own. Add in his incredible work ethic and high moral caliber, and you have everything that defines the word champion. And astonishingly, he can still wrestle with guys a third his age! He's my hero and my friend. I can't wait for the ceremony on April 6." Backlund... "I am truly humbled to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame," said Bob Backlund. "Maria has been a friend for years and I can't think of someone I would rather have induct me at Madison Square Garden."
Bruno Sammartino defends change of heart re HOF:
"I was in the business for almost a quarter of a century, and I'm very proud of my career", Sammartino said. "I loved wrestling and so forth, but when I retired I saw changes that were very bothersome to me. For one thing, there were a lot of steroids and other drugs being used. That bothered me tremendously. Secondly, they had these good looking girls as wrestlers, but there was some nudity and some very vulgar stuff involved. The profanity they were using was also terrible, I hated to see the profession I held for 25 years come down to that. As a result, because of how much it bothered me, I was very outspoken about it and tried to bring attention to the fact hoping that something maybe could be done. So, the main reason why I wouldn't go into the WWE Hall of Fame was that I'd feel very much like a hypocrite if I did, because I resented all of these things. It just didn't feel right then to accept entrance into the Hall of Fame. "When Paul (Triple H) contacted me about 7 months ago, I had long since quit watching wrestling. So he called me up and said that both him and WWE would really love to have me in the Hall of Fame. Paul was very kind, he said, 'Our Hall of Fame needs to have you, to become legitimised, because you held the World Title almost 12 years and you were the WWF'. He said he'd heard a lot of the interviews I'd done over the years, but wanted me to know that WWE had made a lot of changes. They hired a doctor, Dr. Maroon and his staff, to do very strict drug testing and now had a complete Wellness program in place – checking out the overall fitness of the guys and making sure they weren't suffering from concussions etc. So, I knew of Dr. Maroon, he's a very famous neurosurgeon, and had in fact operated on me before. I did a lot of damage to my back throughout my career, and he helped me tremendously. He's a very ethical man with a wonderful reputation. I spoke to him about things several times, and he told me how strict things had become; he informed me how much WWE were doing to correct prior problems. As I started watching it all again, I noticed that the wrestlers looked normal – they looked like athletes again! They no longer looked freakish and over-developed, like Hulk Hogan, Billy Graham, The Road Warriors or The Ultimate Warrior. Then Paul continued to talk with me, telling me that WWE had done away with all the nudity, vulgarity and profanity, because they wanted to be more of a family entertainment program. Without giving him a decision on the Hall of Fame quite yet, I decided to watch for a few more months to see if what he said rang true. They were legitimate changes WWE had made, which was good. After I was convinced of the drug testing and all of the other changes, I finally told Paul, 'Ok, you guys are going the right direction and I'm willing to come in'. That's how my pending induction into the WWE Hall of Fame happened".
WWE star returns:
After a 60 day drugs ban followed by a Birthday accident that mangled his foot, the 14 month lay off for Evan Bourne finally ended yesterday, he returned with a win at NXT vs Sammy Sane (El Generico)...
MVP thanks Vince:
"Whether I return to WWE or not, I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to live this life. Thanks Vince for giving an ex con a shot."
TNA Impact SPOILERS!!!:
For the episode to air on April 4... * Gutcheck challenge - Adam Pearce vs Magno * Tara & Gail Kim vs Velvet Sky & Taryn Terrell * Aces & 8's Promo with AJ Styles... Will he join??? * Hulk Hogan Promo with AJ Styles... Will he stay on team TNA??? * Petey Williams vs Sonjay Dutt vs Mason Andrews * Aces & 8's vs Team TNA (8 Man Tag) * Bully Ray Promo ends the show.
John Morrison lands horror flick role:
JoMo will appear in a movie entitled The Factory... A group wanting to buy an old disused Factory go to the site to view the building, but get trapped inside and must fight for their lives against the demons of the buildings past. The movie will film in new York in a fortnight.
Paul Heyman talks WrestleMania:
"How could it be bad for me? I have two of the three main events properly represented on the biggest Wrestlemania of all time in the New York/New Jersey metropolitan area. How could things be going anything but splendidly for me? I'm ecstatic with my current role in WWE. I get to work every Monday with my two best friends: Brock Lesnar and CM Punk. I have 'The Beast' [Lesnar] and 'The Best' [Punk]."
Jack Swagger:
Jack Swagger will appear in court on April 9 to answer the charges resulting from his DUI and possession arrest.
Scott Hall update:
The Bad Guy Razor Ramon, thanks fans for their donations for his surgery, reveals his status re drink and more on his latest video diary...
TNA take weekend off:
They have no house shows this weekend.
Hacksaw Jim Duggan talks WrestleMania / HOF:
On Mania... "My first Wrestlemania was Wrestlemania III. That was the one with 93,000 folks. I didn't have a match, but I ran down with the 2x4 and hit Nikolai Volkoff and the Iron Sheik. I had 93,000 people chanting USA, and that was the thrill of a lifetime." On Hall Of Fame... "It's a great honor. You always want to be remembered. Being recognized by the WWE is the pinnacle of our profession. It's something that everybody aspires to. A lot of guys say that they don't care, but they're the ones not getting the call. It was a beautiful night. My family was there, and some of my good friends. It was just a really special night."
Reid Flair:
Double WWE Hall Of Famer Ric Flair's 24 year old Son Reid has sadly died today, details are scarce at the moment so I will update the situation as the details become clearer. Ric (Through his agent) released this statement... "We are heartbroken to confirm that Ric's son, Reid, has passed away today March 29, 2013 in Charlotte, NC. The investigation into the cause of death is ongoing. Reid was an incredible son, brother, friend, and professional wrestler. No words can describe the grief that Ric and his family are experiencing and they do request privacy during this devastating time." R.I.P Dead Wrestlers.
Trish Stratus on WWE women's division:
"I think what is missing is I think everyone has the right tools. I think we're seeing; listen, when you look at, and it's funny, I fell in Kaitlyn because I loved her quirky attitude and she reminds me of me and I like that a lot, and there's that afraid to not be silly and I just think that the fans don't know that side of her, or know as much as we do on the inside, right? So, what I think is missing overall, and it's something I've said for years, is the development of the characters.''
"I went up to the Undertaker in the locker room… and was so taken back and in such awe about what was about to go down, I just had to thank him... While I was talking to 'Taker, I couldn't do nothing but bust into tears like a little 15-year-old girl meeting Justin Bieber… and 'Taker grabbed me and said 'this was it is about… we love to see this… enjoy the moment.' I'll never forget it… Tears rolling down my eyes, he said that this lets me know that you want it." He also revealed why he left WWE... "Creative changes – that's exactly what is was. You could be the most talented guy in the world, and the greatest self-promoter (look at Zack Ryder), but if there is someone who has a pen or pencil in higher places that does not recommended you or are not pulling against you, they have the power of persuasion that can work against you."
Robbie E. signs new deal:
He says he has signed a 1 year contract extension.
Kofi Kingston talks heel turn:
"It's really funny, because I guess there's a rumor on the Internet right now 'ah, Kofi's turning heel" and I'm like whoa, I am? Which is like, I don't know. I'm always the last one to find these things out, but like I said, I'm very confident as a performer and if that's the case I'm sure I'll knock it out of the park. I'm fine with that. Who knows? I don't even speculate. I don't know what's going to happen tonight. So for me to think ahead, about what's going to happen way down the line, I mean who knows. It's really up to the fans, to be honest. If I come out, and the WWE Universe all of a sudden starts booing me, and then all of a sudden they don't like me, therefore I'm a bad guy. I'd have to reciprocate off of that. I don't know, I guess we'll wait and see what happens."
CM Punk Interview:
On The Undertaker Match... "Everyone's expecting me to try and top the Shawn Michaels matches. That's not my goal. My goal is to make it the best that the situation allows me to make it. There's a chance that it could be better than those matches, but that's not my goal. This isn't one of those work rate matches. I like my pro wrestling when people are pissed off and angry. I don't like it when it's two dudes going out there to wrestle. I made him [Undertaker] mad. I got under his skin. I made it personal, and it's hopefully going to be emotional and psychological." On making others look good... "I think it's a curse. I think if you have the ability to make whoever you're in the ring with look better than they are, to enhance certain aspects of their game, I think a lot of times it's more of a curse." On being cheered as the bad guy... "I think pro wrestling fans, as a whole, are just super passionate. When there's a guy whose been on TV non stop, that's their guy, or however it is. They're used to seeing him. They like that guy. I think they'll back him no matter what." On his WWE Title run... "I wanted to do a lot of things. I knew what the endgame was, and I knew I had a shot at being a good guy and I had a shot at being a bad guy. I really wanted to see if I could go from being most loved to most hated. That was my primary goal. Obviously putting asses in seats and drawing money and all that. But from a character aspect, I wanted to kind of evolve CM Punk. I almost wanted to make the fans hypocrites. They cheer everything I do for six months, and then I don't change a single thing I do, and they boo everything I do. It's almost like a sociological experiment." On wanting to retire early... "I don't want to be a lifer. I don't want to do anything, but I get bored easy. So I'm like what the next hill to climb, what's the next mountain to conquer?"
Ryder gets Mania match:
Well sort of... He says he will face Michael McGillicutty at Fan Axxess on Thursday's card.
Ryback talks WrestleMania:
"WrestleMania is the biggest event of the year for us. It's something you've got to see in person to see how magnificent it is. It's the culmination of a year of hard work. You've got the biggest matches and angles going into one night. It's a lot of fun –– a lot of excitement. You pack in anywhere from 50, 60, 70,000 people in an outside arena and it's just something you've got to see."
Jeff Jarrett:
Questions are being asked regarding Jeff Jarrett's TNA status after he did not compete at the nostalgia PPV's, it is believed Eric Bischoff and Brother Love do not want Jarrett back as a talent, and to prove how strong they feel in that regard he was not asked back for the One Night Only PPV's. He was last on TNA TV in 2011.
Hogan vs Flair:
A promoter hoping to arrange a dream match offered Hulk Hogan $35,000 dollars to face Ric Flair, he accepted, before changing his mind and asking for $50,000, Ric However turned the gig down flat because it was to be held in a high school.
Alberto Del Rio:
WWE hope to make Alberto a legendary babyface, achieving the levels of Eddie Guerrero. They are looking to hire a hispanic writer specifically to work on his future stories. In a possible SPOILER!!! a creative leak has suggested that Dolph Ziggler will cash in his MITB case to pick the bones of the ADR vs Jack Swagger WrestleMania match.
Chris Jericho admits disappointment with his WrestleMania opponent:
When Y2J returned the plan was for him to turn heel and feud with Ryback at Mania, the plans changed very last minute and he was then told he would be in a mixed tag, before WWE finally settled on Fandango as his opponent, he says he was disappointed by the change but is still excited to perform at the Super Show, because at 42 he wants to have as many memorable moments as he can get before he hangs them up, which he is not yet ready to do, he insists.
Bruno The Movie:
WWE are in talks with the makers of the Bruno Sammartino movie, they are offering to Produce and fund the project through their movie wing WWE Studios.
CM Punk's WWE status:
Wrestling journalists are questioning the WWE line on CM Punk, and are wondering if his injury is worse than they are admitting, it is reported that a deny at all costs ethos has become very apparent whenever any one from the company is quizzed on Punk, and other stories such as the creative feud Punk is allegedly involved in seem to be getting leaked onto the net to distract from the real issues he is having.
Rock and Brock:
WWE have confirmed The Rock and Brock Lesnar will both perform at Extreme Rules in May, but have shot down internet speculation that that means they are facing each other, they will both continue their own story line paths.
WWE losing money:
WWE are losing money on the WWE Hall Of Fame, they wanted to use Madison Square Garden for this years Hall Of Fame ceremony, even before the idea of inducting Bruno Sammartino came to fruition, but they concede they cannot make back the money they are laying out on the event, the arena is too small to earn the money back in ticket sales and TV's only want a 1 hour highlights package to air, not wanting to pay top dollar for the rights to air the whole event, especially with the high price they pay for the Mania rights.
Honky Tonk Man pulling for Jannetty:
Marty Jannetty's injured ankles are again causing concern for his friends, The Honky Tonk Man is asking any one who will listen to help fund the surgery Marty desperately needs... "Just talked to Marty Jannetty. I saw his ankle. Needs surgery ASAP. To proud to ask for help.. A real man in need. Can we help?"
Rap group dropped:
Plans to have the Three 6 Mafia perform Mark Henry's theme at WrestleMania have been scrapped. WWE have instead booked Sean (P Puff Diddy Daddy, IDK what he is calling himself now) Coombs.
Kevin Nash talks WrestleMania:
"The first Wrestlemania I was involved with was the Michaels/Hall ladder match, when I was Shawn's bodyguard. I still think that was one of the greatest matches of all time. A year later, me and Shawn were headlining. And then I co-headlined with 'Taker the next year. I was involved with some great moments in the early-to-mid-90s."
TNA Impact teaser:
* The return of Open Fight Night. * Jeff Hardy will be appearing and calling out a member against Aces & Eights. * TNA is teasing whether AJ Styles will appear tonight and call out someone during Open Fight Night. * TNA is also teasing whether Sting will appear tonight.
Great news for UK fans:
The Undertaker has confirmed he will be on the post WrestleMania European tour, and will compete at the O2... This has got to be one of the last times he will compete internationally, so I will see you there... It will be his first trip to the UK for 4 years.
X-Pac on his injury:
"The video doesnt do justice to the severity of the situation. the turnbuckle wasnt covered & my landing should have been 45 degrees. I ended up landing hard & horizontal. The turnbuckle ripped me another new a hole. I kew it right away, U can see me tell ref 'tore my ass!'... I ewent to after party brieflly, but had to leave as blood starting gushing. Hotel looked like a murder scene. So much blood... Im typing in the dark. sorry for typos. Hotel security called ambulance & Dr Morken @ HCMC performed sphincterplasty to save me from having to have a colostomy bag. It hard not to laugh. So feel free to find it humorous. I did almost bleed out, before ambulance got there. I did the x factor from the top rope & 1 through a table after it happened. My concern was Jery getting the proper send off, Not my butthole. Brighter side of things. will start taking applications for my school. Beginners need to be in shape. Those with prior experience, that want to learn wwe main event style is what Im focusing on. If u were already trained by someone who has no business training people or you feel you werent trained right. Its extra work to break your bad habits, but I'll consider it. More info to come & very limited amount of ppl will be accepted. I will not take your money if you dont have what it takes." He went on to thank fans for their messages, and jokes about the incident... "Thank u everyone for the kind wishes & some funny 1 liners Im sure were hard to pass up. If u cant laugh at yourself, who can u laugh at?''.
Trish on hearing about HOF induction:
"It was the end of 2012. I was home. I got a call and was told the news. It was a little bit of a shock, because I feel like I just wrestled yesterday. I'm just super honored. It's exciting, because when I heard about the class and everyone else being inducted, I was just so thrilled and honored to be in the same class. I never thought I would get in, and just to know that I'm accepted, I'm going to be a fan just getting my pictures with everyone." She also said that Mickie James is her favourite WrestleMania opponent.
New Alumni:
For the third consecutive week, WWE have added an active TNA star to their Alumni page, this week in a rare move it is one of the women, Victoria (Tara).
Mick Foley (With a little help from his Son) announces his Hall Of Fame inductor... Al Snow, Really???... LOL
Maria Menounos has now been confirmed to induct Bob Backlund, with Stevie Ray and Lita expected to do the honours for Booker T and Trish Stratus respectively.
Fan Axxess:
WWE have confirmed the events at next months Pre WrestleMania party... The Main Event — More live matches than ever before, Q-and-As featuring WWE Superstars, plus exciting contests for your chance to win a number of prizes! Superstar Signings — Get an autograph with your favorite WWE Superstar or Diva at stations located in the arena seats throughout WrestleMania Axxess. Legends Signings — Get an autograph with your favorite WWE Legend at these stations. Full details on who will be there and when... Thursday, April 4, 6-10 p.m. Mark Henry, Booker T, Jack Swagger, Prime Time Players, 3MB, Rosa Mendes, Jimmy Snuka, plus more! Friday, April 5, 6-10 p.m. The Miz, Alberto Del Rio, The Shield, Kofi Kingston, Ted DiBiase, Fandango, Zack Ryder, Alicia Fox, plus more! Saturday, April 6, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. The Bella Twins, Daniel Bryan, The Miz, Jim Ross, Brodus Clay, Cameron, Naomi, Jerry Lawler, JBL, Paul Heyman, Lita, Billy Gun, plus more! Saturday, April 6, 1-5 p.m. CM Punk, Chris Jericho, Wade Barrett, Alberto Del Rio, Damien Sandow, The Great Khali, Layla, plus more! Saturday, April 6, 6-10 p.m. Kofi Kingston, Dolph Ziggler, AJ Lee, Ryback, Santino Marella, The Shield, Christian, R-Truth, Ezekiel Jackson, Tensai, Big E. Langston, Justin Gabriel, Tyson Kidd, Yoshi Tatsu, Rikishi, Howard Finkel, plus more! Sunday, April 7, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Sheamus, Kaitlyn, Cody Rhodes, David Otunga, Jimmy Hart, Diamond Dallas Page, X-Pac, plus more! Sunday, April 7, 12:30-4:30 p.m. Antonio Cesaro, Sin Cara, Alex Riley, JTG, Aksana, Tamina, Dusty Rhodes, Ron Simmons, Ricky Steamboat, plus more! WWE Memorabilia — Experience WWE history while walking through this area showcasing authentic WWE mementos, including items from the 2013 Hall of Fame Class. WrestleMania Timeline — Check out the WrestleMania timeline spotlighting the greatest moments in WrestleMania history. WWE Vehicles — View the 4x4 that "Stone Cold" Steve Austin rode to and around the ring at WrestleMania XXV for the ultimate beer bash, Mr. McMahon's infamous limo and Alberto Del Rio's Rolls Royce that was destroyed by Edge at WrestleMania XXVII. WWE Championship Titles — Get up close and personal with past and present WWE championship titles in this historical display. WWE Photo Shoot — Take a photo with your favorite WWE Superstar or Diva! WWEShop — WWE fans of all ages will have the opportunity to browse and purchase the hottest WrestleMania 29 gear and products with the option of purchasing online products at nearby kiosks. Cenation Trivia and Audio Booth — Test your trivia knowledge for a chance to win great prizes! Plus, record your own John Cena–inspired entrance music! Money in the Bank — Here is your opportunity to grab hold of the Money in the Bank briefcase and win a future WWE Title bout! Take a photo and share with your friends and family! WWE Universe Open Casting Call: "Christmas Bounty" Presented by WWE Studios — The WWE Studios team is looking for talent during WrestleMania Axxess! You have an opportunity at auditioning for a role in WWE Studios' upcoming film, "Christmas Bounty." Your audition could be posted on WWE's YouTube channel for all to check out … do you have what it takes? Cover Shoot Presented by WWE Magazine — Have your photo taken and inserted onto the cover of a WWE Magazine. "Pain & Gain" Photo Booth — Visit the "Pain & Gain" photo booth for a free picture with the stars of the film, and make sure to check out the autograph stage where you can meet your favorite WWE Superstars!
X-Pac:
Video of the asscident, See what I did there?, from this past weekend has been released...
X-Pac has also revealed that Doctors told him he lost so much blood he could have died, and that he has been shown how to clean properly after defecating, because the Docs say he is at risk of infection to the wound if he doesn't.
Creative issues in WWE:
Since the release of Eric Pankowski a power struggle has started within the creative department, new signing David Kreizman, Dave (Ranjin Singh) Kapoor, Ed Koskey, and Dusty Rhodes understudy Ryan Ward are all vying for the top spot, The pay is said to be very bad at the current level they work at, and all members of the division have just recently had pay rise requests shot down by Stephanie McMahon.
WrestleMania matches confirmed:
WWE have announced Wade Barrett will defend the Intercontinental Title vs The Miz and an 8 Person Intergender Tag match will also be on the card... Brodus Clay, Tensai, Cameron & Naomi vs Cody Rhodes, Damien Sandow, Brie & Nikki Bella. They have also decided to drop the World Record attempt for the biggest Harlem Shake.
SmackDown SPOILERS!!!:
* The Rock opens the show, and is interrupted by a returning John Laurinaitis, who says he wants to be The Rock's corner man at Mania, because he hates John Cena for what he did to him in the past, Rock responds... * Chris Jericho vs Wade Barrett * Jericho promo, he says he wants a title match at Mania, but will settle for a match vs Fandango. * Mark Henry vs Ryback (Weightlifting Contest). Note... WWE announced they broke the World Record during this segment, each man achieved 53 reps, 2 more than ex NFL player Justin Ernest, who scored 51 in 1999. * AJ Lee, Big E. Langston & Dolph Ziggler vs Daniel Bryan, Kane & Kaitlyn * Great Khali vs Jack Swagger Note... This match was said to have bombed. * Antonio Cesaro, Cody Rhodes & Damien Sandow vs Big Show, Randy Orton & Sheamus.
Ric Flair:
The Double Hall Of Famer has instructed his agent to release a statement on his health issues... "Ric is doing well, he feels great, and is home. WWE's medical staff performed a physical on Ric yesterday, like they do all of their athletes, and recommended that he have a doctor take a closer look at his swollen leg. Upon arriving back in Charlotte today he went to see his doctors and it was determined that there is a blood clot. He was not admitted to the hospital, rather released with medication, which the doctors are confident will work quickly causing Ric to completely heal soon. Ric appreciates everyone's concern and is looking forward to seeing fans at his next scheduled appearance in Hagerstown, MD on Friday and performing for WWE very soon."
TNA vs WWE:
Dixie Carter and Kurt Angle have both been quoted today as saying that TNA's roster is Superior to any other Promotions.
WarGames:
WWE have confirmed the title of the WCW WarGames DVD... "WWE: War Games: WCW's Most Notorious Matches."
Naomi:
Brodus' Dancer Naomi has received a lot of praise for her performance in a Tag match taped for Main Event, including Dolph Ziggler who tweeted... "Naomi has the hottest moveset in the biz! wow, watch#MainEvent on @IonTV wednesday night#WWEhershey"
WrestleMania kills Indy event:
Shane Douglas has announced Extreme Rising will cancel all events for the Mania weekend, due to low ticket sales.
Hall Of Fame:
It seems Chyna was telling the truth... (See Monday). WWE planned on having DX as the headline inductees for this years Hall Of Fame class, because they did not expect Bruno to agree to induction, and word is She was to be included. A decision must now be made, Do DX go in this year on the undercard, or wait until next year to headline the class of 2014.
Ken Shamrock wants WWE return:
Ken Shamrock has revealed he has been asking WWE for a return to the company, because he feels he did not live up to his potential during his run there... "Oh, definitely. I've tried to reach out, but I've been hitting some walls. I'm not sure if my messages are getting through or not. In my career, if you follow my career and watched everything that I've ever done from the time I was in high school to where I'm at now, I've always been able to reach the pinnacle. In football, I was able to win championships and go to bowl games in college, be an All-American linebacker and there were a lot of things I was able to accomplish. In my professional career, every time I jumped into an organization, I always reached the top and the title. I know with NWA with Jeff Jarrett, TNA, I was their first heavyweight champion, so I was able to reach that pinnacle. With Pancrase, I was their first champion and was also able to bring it to the U.S. using my character. I also reached the level in the UFC as a heavyweight champion, one of the first of all time, also rookie of the year, fighter of the year. I got into pro wrestling, I've got tag team champion, Intercontinental champion, King of the Ring. There were several times where I wished I had got that opportunity, and probably should have had that opportunity, to at least challenge for the Heavyweight Championship belt. I never got that opportunity, and I'm not sure why, but it is what it is. I will keep fighting to try and get that opportunity and close this thing up to be probably one of the only persons in sports history to go into several different organizations and become world champion in every one of them."
Win WWE tickets to Raw in Nottingham:
UK Fans are asked who comprises the team Hell No???... Details to enter.
WWE features stars before they were famous:.
WWE are showcasing wrestlers working for them as jobbers before they made it onto the active roster, included are CM Punk, Daniel Bryan, Mick Foley, Matt & Jeff Hardy, Hardcore Holly, Tajiri, Jerry Lynn and more.
Adam Bomb talks his dislike for Vince McMahon:
"You know what, at that time, to me it didn't seem like Vince… it was sort of like sitting outside of the principle's door waiting to go in and see him for a couple of minutes; so I didn't like it at all. That's why, and people say what are you talking about, but working with Bischoff, I could talk to Bischoff anytime I wanted to. With Vince, It's like you had to bow down and whatever, whatever and that's why I liked WCW so much more. People may not really understand that, but I was there and I know; I was in both places and that's why I left New York because of him lying to me and all the bulls--t. I just said I've had enough of this. There were a few rumors about it, but matter of fact Mabel was sitting right next to me when they told me what they were going to do; they were going to put the Intercontinental Title on me. Mabel is sitting right next to me in the locker room and Brisco and Patterson said 'We're going to put Mabel over at King of the Ring, after that we're going to put the Intercontinental Title on you. And I'm like 'Great, that's awesome', you know? So, then he basically lied about it and back out on it and I said you know what, and I'm not big on people lying to me, so I just said 'I've had enough of this' and he was going through his whole steroid trial and we stood by him and were working 280-290 days out of the year; our money was going down. I just said 'You know what, I've had enough of this; I've got a family'. So, I had a job waiting for me with Bischoff in Atlanta, and I lived in Atlanta and that's where I wanted to be anyways, so that's what happened."
Big Show on Mania's weather:
"So the only thing that I'm a little concerned about is the weather. Because, you know, I'm not wearing much. I'm wearing Spandex. It's gonna be a little chilly out there."
Wrestling wedding:
Maria Kanellis says She will marry Mike Bennett on October 10 of this year (My Birthday).
